LPN to RN Online Programs in NC: Guide to Top Degrees
Advancing from working as a licensed practical nurse (LPN) to a registered nurse (RN) in North Carolina can lead to higher salaries, increased job opportunities, and greater responsibilities. Since North Carolina is currently experiencing a nursing shortage, becoming a licensed RN means you will have your pick of jobs — but how do you choose the right program? This guide explores different schools, learning outcomes, licensure requirements, financial aid, and other important considerations when selecting your LPN to RN bridge program in North Carolina.
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Inside Popular LPN to RN Programs in North Carolina
LPN to RN programs in North Carolina help licensed practical nurses (LPNs) become registered nurses (RNs) in as little as a year. These programs build on existing nursing knowledge, allowing students to fast-track their education while balancing work and life.
Many online LPN to RN programs are considered hybrid, which means learning activities are part online and part in-person. Program offerings include:
- Coursework: Online classes via remote learning management software
- Labs: On-campus labs or simulations for hands-on training
- Clinicals: In-person clinical training at approved healthcare facilities
Before enrolling, you should confirm that the North Carolina Board of Nursing approves the program and it meets National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN) exam eligibility.
Here are profiles of several LPN to RN programs in the state that offer hybrid formats, making it easier to transition while continuing to work.
Stanly Community College
Stanly Community College offers students a convenient way to use their prior LPN training and education to quickly earn an associate degree in nursing (ADN). Graduates from this accredited program from the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation will be ready to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and become registered nurses.
Features:
- Much of the coursework completed online
- On-campus classes or an in-person clinical at least one day a week
- Takes two years and 41 credits to complete
- Impressive three-year NCLEX-RN average passage rate of 98%
This is a competitive program. Interested students must take the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) exam. But unlike some schools, there’s no minimum TEAS score for admission. Instead, the exam is used to identify the top 16 student scores to facilitate the admission process.
Duration: 2 years
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: Fees vary – see the latest tuition & fees chart here.
Admissions Requirements:
- Transcripts
- LPN license
- One course of high school (or higher education) algebra, biology, and chemistry with a C grade or higher.
- TEAS exam
- Background check and drug screening
Curriculum:
- Anatomy and Physiology II
- Nursing Transition Concepts
- Pharmacology
- LPN to ADN Concepts
Catawba Valley Community College
The LPN to RN Bridge program at Catawba Valley Community College has several features that make it an attractive option for current LPNs who wish to become registered nurses. In addition to being approved by the North Carolina Board of Nursing, the program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
Features:
- Classes offered online and on-campus
- Online classes usually offered in an asynchronous format (participate in course activities at a time most convenient for you, rather than at scheduled times)
- In-person requirements are scheduled so students can typically continue working while in school
- Most on-campus classes take place in the early evenings, and clinicals commonly occur during weekends
- Three-year NCLEX-RN pass rate average of 95%
Duration: 2 semesters
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $4,500
Admissions Requirements:
- Complete pre-admission coursework
- LPN license
- CPR certification
- Background check and drug screen
Curriculum:
- Practical Nursing I, II, and III
- Nursing Transition Concepts
- LPN to ADN Concepts I and II
Cape Fear Community College
The LPN to RN program from Cape Fear Community College is one of the best for preparing students to become RNs. One way Cape Fear CC’s program, which is ACEN-accredited, achieves such impressive results is by providing flexible learning options.
Features:
- Classes offered online and on-campus, making it easier to continue working as an LPN in school
- At least 144 hours of clinical practice tied to each LPN to RN nursing course
- Takes three semesters to finish
- NCLEX-RN three-year average pass rate is 99%
Duration: 3 semesters
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: Fees vary — see the program website for details.
Admissions Requirements:
- High school transcripts
- LPN license
- Successful completion of prerequisite courses with a GPA of 2.0 or higher
- To apply, LPNs must meet one of the following requirements:
- If you completed an approved Practical Nursing Program within the past year, you must be currently employed and have at least 520 hours of LPN work experience.
- If you graduated more than a year ago, you must have 1,040 hours of LPN work experience within the last two years.
Curriculum:
- LPN to ADN Concepts I & II
- Prof. Research & Reporting
Quick Guide: FAQs for LPN to RN Programs
If you’re considering an LPN to RN bridge program, you probably have many questions — How long does it take? How do I know the program is a good one? What are the admission requirements? Below, we break down the most common questions from LPN to RN students to help you make an informed decision.
How much time does it take to finish an LPN to RN bridge program?
Most programs take 2-3 semesters, with some accelerated options finishing in one year. For instance, at Wake Tech, students take fall, spring, and summer classes.
If an LPN to RN program takes longer, such as four semesters at Coastal Carolina Community College, it’s usually because it includes courses that other LPN to RN programs in the state count as general education classes or prerequisites.
LPN to RN students can speed up the time it takes to earn their nursing associate degree if they have already completed college courses at another school. These transfer credits typically apply to general education and prerequisite courses, as the LPN to RN program already considers the nursing courses for which LPN students automatically get credit.
Expert Insight
You have the option to take your general education courses before entering an LPN to RN program. While this will extend your schooling, it allows you to focus entirely on nursing coursework during your program. You’ll need to decide if completing concurrent general education (or elective) courses might be a distraction for you, especially if you plan to work during school.
What are the admissions requirements for LPN to RN bridge programs in NC?
To enroll in an LPN to RN program in North Carolina, applicants typically need:
- A high school diploma or GED
- A valid, unrestricted LPN license (North Carolina or multi-state compact)
- Completion of prerequisite courses (math, writing, science)
- A minimum GPA (usually 2.5 or higher)
- A passing score on a nursing entrance exam, such as the TEAS or ACT exam
- Clinical experience (may or may not be required)
Clinical experience requirements vary by school. For example:
- Sampson Community College: all applicants must work at least two years (and at least 2,000 hours) as an LPN at a qualified healthcare facility
- Cape Fear Community College: applicants must have earned their LPN credentials within the past year and be currently employed or have at least a year of experience as an LPN within the past two years
Regarding nursing entrance exams, requirements vary per program. At Forsyth Tech Community College, applicants need at least a 60% total score on the TEAS. Alternatively, some students, such as those at Lenoir Community College, can take either the TEAS or ACT.
How much does LPN to RN bridge programs typically cost?
According to our research, tuition costs for several programs are between $2,000 and $5,000, but your entire financial obligation will depend on many factors. For example, most LPN to RN programs are offered by community colleges, which have tuition rates set by the North Carolina state legislature.
The good new is, after you graduate with your associate degree in nursing and begin working as a registered nurse, you can expect an increase in income to recover the financial investment of your NC LPN to RN program.
What should I look for in an LPN to RN program?
Returning to school to earn an associate degree in nursing is a significant decision. To ensure you get the biggest return on your time and money investments, you’ll want to select a state LPN to RN bridge program that has several essential features:
- It must be approved by the North Carolina Board of Nursing.
- It should have programmatic accreditation from the NLN CNEA, ACEN, or CCNE. This isn’t required to become a registered nurse in North Carolina, but it serves as additional assurance that you’re receiving a quality nursing education.
- Find a program with historically high NCLEX-RN pass rates. These vary each year, with the best programs earning higher passing percentages.
You should also look at the types of student support services and activities available. Honors societies, networking events, and career mentoring can help you find the perfect job after graduation.
What is the job outlook for RNs in North Carolina?
Job growth for RNs in North Carolina is projected at 16.4%, significantly higher than the 5.6% national average. This growth indicates a strong demand for skilled RNs, with 7,930 annual job openings.
In comparison, the projected growth rate for LPNs is 10.0%, with 1,490 openings each year. These salary and growth rates suggest a promising future for RNs in North Carolina.
LPN vs. RN Salaries in North Carolina
| Area | Occupation | 10th Percentile | Median | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | LPNs/LVNs | $50,480 | $63,270 | $74,730 |
| RNs | $67,660 | $84,350 | $110,220 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
| Area | Occupation | Curr.Jobs | Proj.Jobs | NewJobs | Growth % | Avg. Ann.Openings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | RNs | 3,172,500 | 3,349,900 | 177,400 | 5.60% | 193,100 |
| LPNs/LVNs | 655,000 | 689,900 | 34,900 | 5.30% | 54,400 | |
| North Carolina | RNs | 106,190 | 123,650 | 17,460 | 16.40% | 7,930 |
| LPNs/LVNs | 16,650 | 18,320 | 1,670 | 10.00% | 1,490 |
Source: Projections Central
