LPN to RN Online Programs in OK: Uncovering Top Degrees
Advancing from LPN to RN is a rewarding journey that can lead to higher pay, expanded responsibilities, and greater career satisfaction. This guide will walk you through Oklahoma’s top online LPN to RN programs, explain licensure requirements, and provide financial aid and career planning tips. If you want to broaden your skillset, earn more, or take on new challenges, you’ll find everything you need to get started. Keep reading to discover the next steps in your journey.
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An Overview of Online LPN to RN Degrees in Oklahoma
Online LPN to RN programs in Oklahoma offer the convenience of online classes and essential hands-on clinical training, making it easier for licensed practical nurses to advance in their careers. These programs are designed for busy professionals, allowing you to keep working while earning your advanced nursing credential. Many programs let you complete online classes on your schedule, while clinical training is arranged at local healthcare facilities for added flexibility.
The courses cover key topics like medication management, patient care, and leadership in nursing, ensuring you are ready for different healthcare roles. These programs also help you prepare for the NCLEX-RN exam and build the skills needed for hospital, clinic, and care facility roles. Programs approved by organizations like the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Oklahoma Board of Nursing ensure high standards and licensure eligibility.
Below, we’ve highlighted some of the best programs in the state, detailing their unique features, curriculum, and admission requirements to help you find the one that best fits your goals.
Western Oklahoma State College
The online LPN to RN program at Western Oklahoma State College is designed to help licensed practical nurses advance their careers without disrupting their busy schedules. Accredited by the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA), this program combines the convenience of online learning with the essential hands-on training needed to succeed as a registered nurse.
The online classes are offered asynchronously, allowing you to access recorded lectures and complete your coursework at your own pace. This flexibility makes it an excellent option for those balancing work, family, and other responsibilities. Clinical rotations occur one day per week at sites in Altus, Elk City, Lawton, or Duncan. These rotations give you hands-on opportunities to care for patients and are scheduled during flexible hours, from early mornings to late evenings, Monday through Friday
At the beginning of the program, students are also required to participate in the LPN-to-RN transition course, which is delivered in a hybrid model. During the four-week class, students spend three days on campus, while the rest of the coursework is done online. For the Class of 2023, Western Nursing achieved a NCLEX-RN pass rate of 92.75%, with 64 out of 69 graduates passing the exam on their first attempt.
Duration: One Year
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $13,873 at theAltus and Elk City campus site; $14,821 at the Lawton campus site
Admissions Requirements
- A minimum grade of “C” in all required pre-requisite courses
- Hold an unencumbered LPN license
- A cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.25 or higher
- Demonstrate recent LPN work experience or be a newly licensed graduate
- Complete the HESI A2 with Critical Thinking Nursing Admission Exam and achieve minimum scores of 82 in Reading and 74 in Math and a preferred minimum score of 65 in Anatomy & Physiology, Biology, vocabulary and Critical Thinking
- Pass a criminal background check
- Working as an LPN or recent licensed graduate
- Submit all transcripts from prior colleges
- Apply and be accepted to Western Oklahoma State College
Curriculum:
- Human Anatomy w/lab
- General Chemistry w/lab
- Functions & Modeling
- Human Physiology w/lab
- English Composition I
- General Psychology
- LPN to RN Transition Course
- Federal Government
- American History
- Introduction to Nursing Principles of Pharmacy
- Maternal/Child Nursing Care
- Medical Surgical for Nursing
- Clinical Decision Making
Seminole State College
Seminole State College’s LPN to RN online program provides licensed practical nurses with a flexible pathway to earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and advance their careers.
Accredited by the ACEN, the program combines convenient online coursework with essential hands-on clinical training, equipping you with the knowledge and practical skills needed to become a registered nurse.
A unique feature of this program is the Student Navigator service, which connects students with a dedicated advisor for personalized support. From enrollment and financial aid assistance to academic guidance, the Navigator helps students stay on track and succeed throughout the program.
The 70-credit curriculum includes a balanced mix of general education and nursing-specific courses, preparing graduates for various nursing roles. Clinical training sessions are scheduled flexibly, with some taking place on weekdays, evenings, or weekends, allowing students to adapt to their other commitments.
Duration: Ten to 18 months
Mode: Hybrid
Estimated Cost: $14,000 (in-state)
Admissions Requirements:
- Obtain a grade of “C” or higher in the following courses: Principles of Biology, Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, and Microbiology
- A cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.5 or higher in all general education courses.
- Complete Online Degree Programs Admission Application.
- Complete and score at least 850 on the HESI LPN-ADN Entrance Exam.
- Provide official transcripts and professional references
Curriculum:
- Pre-Nursing Courses and Labs
- Medical-Surgical Nursing I & II
- Psychosocial Nursing
- Leadership in Nursing Capstone
- Clinical Practicums and Labs
Southwestern Oklahoma State University
Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) offers an online LPN to BSN program for licensed practical nurses ready to advance their careers and earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Accredited by the ACEN and approved by the Oklahoma Board of Nursing, this program blends challenging academic lessons with in-person clinical training to prepare you for leadership roles in healthcare.
The program is divided into seven eight-week sessions, allowing you to complete your BSN in 12 months. Each session includes six credit hours of coursework, delivered mainly online through SWOSU’s learning system. Exams are proctored online for added convenience, and the structured format ensures a consistent schedule, with classes offered in the fall, spring, and summer terms.
Along with the online classes, you’ll complete 116 hours of in-person clinical training at healthcare facilities within 100 miles of your home. You’ll also work on independent practical learning projects, allowing you to apply your skills in real-world scenarios. This combination of online flexibility and hands-on experience makes SWOSU’s program an excellent choice for advancing your nursing career.
Duration: One year
Mode: Hybrid
Estimated Cost: $11,212
Admissions Requirements:
- Hold an unencumbered LPN or LVN license
- Be a legal resident of Oklahoma (out-of-state students are not accepted)
- Submit official transcripts from all previously attended institutions
- All prerequisite courses must be completed before beginning nursing course
- Score at least 70% on the Nursing Acceleration Challenge Exam (NACE)
- Maintain a retention GPA of 2.5 or higher
Curriculum:
- Advanced Physical Assessment
- Acute & Chronic Care
- Community Health
- Professional Nursing Concepts & Practice
- Professional Nursing Leadership
FAQs About LPN to RN Online Programs in Oklahoma
Now that you have an overview of Oklahoma’s LPN to RN programs, you may have questions about program requirements, accelerated pathways, career differences, financial aid options, and clinical training. Below, we’ve answered some of these questions to help you navigate your journey toward becoming a registered nurse.
Can you complete an LPN to RN program without prerequisites?
Yes, while LPN-to-RN programs without prerequisites exist, they are rare. Most programs require foundational courses like Anatomy, Physiology, and Microbiology. However, some flexible options allow you to complete prerequisites alongside nursing courses, saving time and helping you start your training sooner. Review specific program requirements in Oklahoma to determine if this pathway works for you.
Are accelerated LPN to RN programs available in Oklahoma?
Yes! Oklahoma offers 6-month accelerated LPN to RN programs that are ideal for those looking to fast-track their nursing careers. These intensive programs are designed to transition you quickly into an RN role but typically require completing general education courses before enrollment. If you’re ready for a focused and demanding schedule, these programs offer an efficient way to achieve your RN goals.
What are the key differences between LPN and RN careers?
There are several differences between LPN and RN careers. Transitioning from LPN to RN comes with greater responsibilities, including creating care plans, leading teams, and coordinating patient care. RNs in Oklahoma earn higher salaries and enjoy opportunities to specialize in pediatrics, critical care, or surgical nursing. This career advancement not only provides financial benefits but also allows for a more significant impact on patient care and professional recognition.
What financial aid options are available for LPN to RN students?
Oklahoma offers various financial aid options, including scholarships for RN programs and employer tuition reimbursement. Many healthcare employers support employees in advancing their education through tuition assistance. Contact your school’s financial aid office early to explore available opportunities and maximize your funding options.
What should I know about clinicals in an LPN to RN program?
Clinical placements are vital to LPN to RN programs, offering hands-on experience in real healthcare settings. These sessions allow you to apply classroom knowledge and gain practical skills before becoming an RN. If you’re enrolled in an online program, remember that clinicals must be completed in person at an approved healthcare facility. If you need additional guidance, there are various guides to clinicals for online students, which cover scheduling, preceptor arrangements, and site selection.
Student Resource: Salary & Career Comparison of Oklahoma LPNs and RNs
For LPNs in Oklahoma, transitioning to an RN role can be financially rewarding. The median salary for RNs in Oklahoma is $78,760, representing a 56% increase over the median LPN salary of $50,510. RNs in the 10th percentile earn $61,360 per year, which is higher than the median pay for LPNs. Skilled RNs in the 90th percentile make $101,390, approximately $40,000 more than the top-earning LPN salary of $61,680.
While the projected RN growth rate of 4.8% is slightly below the national average, there is steady demand for RNs. Oklahoma is expected to add 1,800 new RN jobs, compared to just 860 new jobs for LPNs. The larger number of RN roles indicates better job security and opportunities, making the RN career path an excellent choice. Review the following data to gain a better understanding of your prospective career as an RN.
| Occupation ↕ | Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses | Oklahoma | $39,960 | $50,510 | $61,680 |
| Registered Nurses | Oklahoma | $61,360 | $78,760 | $101,390 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Occupation ↕ | Area ↕ | Curr. Jobs ↕ | Proj. Jobs ↕ | New Jobs ↕ | Growth % ↕ | Avg. Ann. Openings ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurses | United States | 3,172,500 | 3,349,900 | 177,400 | 5.60% | 193,100 |
| Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses | United States | 655,000 | 689,900 | 34,900 | 5.30% | 54,400 |
| Registered Nurses | Oklahoma | 37,490 | 39,290 | 1,800 | 4.80% | 2,240 |
| Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses | Oklahoma | 13,590 | 14,450 | 860 | 6.30% | 1,150 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Top Online LPN to RN Bridge Programs in Oklahoma
Southwestern Oklahoma State University
Weatherford, OKProgram Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $4,876 Avg. Aid Amount
- 39% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 19/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Southwestern Oklahoma State University
- Southwestern Oklahoma State University’s LPN to BSN program offers up to 30 advanced-standing credits through challenge exams, enabling faster degree completion.
- The program features a fully online BSN curriculum (except clinical practicums), providing flexibility for working LPNs.
- Employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement and Oklahoma Physician’s Manpower Nursing Student Assistance awards are accepted to support affordability.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $4,876 Avg. Aid Amount
- 39% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 19/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,254 Avg. Aid Amount
- 29% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Western Oklahoma State College
- The LPN-to-RN Bridge program at Western Oklahoma State College offers an online asynchronous format for nursing courses combined with flexible clinical rotations one day per week, accommodating working students' schedules effectively.
- LPNs entering the program receive up to 18 credit hours through prior learning assessments for their practical nursing education at aligned Oklahoma technology centers, allowing accelerated degree progression.
- Students must complete a hybrid LPN-to-RN transition course in the summer (or fall for spring starters), blending online coursework with intensive on-campus days, enhancing preparedness for advanced nursing roles.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,254 Avg. Aid Amount
- 29% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $4,872 Avg. Aid Amount
- 25% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 24/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College
- The NEO LPN to RN Bridge program offers an accelerated 12-month completion option with classes on Fridays and clinicals on Thursdays, designed for working professionals to advance quickly without disrupting careers.
- It is taught by experienced NEO faculty at a convenient Northeast Tech Kansas Campus location, saving students commute time while providing high-quality, community-focused clinical experiences.
- The program’s selective admission requires all prerequisites completed beforehand, ensuring students are well-prepared and supported for success in the accelerated curriculum.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $4,872 Avg. Aid Amount
- 25% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 24/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Oklahoma Wesleyan University
Bartlesville, OKProgram Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $13,536 Avg. Aid Amount
- 32% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Oklahoma Wesleyan University
- Oklahoma Wesleyan University's LPN to RN Bridge program offers 20 credits of advanced standing in nursing with opportunities to challenge additional courses, accelerating degree completion.
- The program boasts a 100% employment rate after graduation, demonstrating strong graduate job placement success.
- Students benefit from an advanced placement cohort design allowing matriculation throughout the calendar year, providing flexible scheduling options.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $13,536 Avg. Aid Amount
- 32% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Eastern Oklahoma State College
Wilburton, OKProgram Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,537 Avg. Aid Amount
- 28% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Eastern Oklahoma State College
- Eastern Oklahoma State College’s LPN to RN Bridge program offers a flexible hybrid format allowing all coursework online with minimal on-campus testing and skills labs, ideal for working professionals managing personal commitments.
- The program guarantees hands-on clinical practice at local partner hospitals and medical facilities, enhancing real-world experience and employer connections in the healthcare community.
- Candidates with existing LPN or paramedic licenses receive advanced standing, accelerating their path to an Associate in Applied Science in Nursing, which streamlines career progression for experienced healthcare workers.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,537 Avg. Aid Amount
- 28% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $4,221 Avg. Aid Amount
- 27% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Rogers State University
- The RSU LPN to RN Bridge program offers flexible entry at an advanced level (year three, second semester) for LPNs and paramedics, accelerating degree completion by recognizing prior credentials.
- The program grants 20 credit hours of advanced standing, reducing total coursework and time to earn a BSN.
- Applicants with a bachelor's degree receive a waiver of the reading score admission requirement, easing the application process for experienced candidates.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $4,221 Avg. Aid Amount
- 27% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $5,913 Avg. Aid Amount
- 34% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Murray State College
- The Murray State College LPN to RN Bridge program offers an accelerated 12-month hybrid format designed for working healthcare professionals seeking rapid career advancement.
- The program has a selective admission process emphasizing strong ACT or Accuplacer reading scores, prerequisite GPA standards, and a valid LPN or Paramedic license, ensuring highly qualified cohorts.
- Graduates are immediately eligible to take the NCLEX-RN licensure exam, facilitating timely transition to Registered Nurse roles with expanded scope and earning potential.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $5,913 Avg. Aid Amount
- 34% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,919 Avg. Aid Amount
- 26% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Tulsa Community College
- The Tulsa Community College LPN to RN Bridge program offers concentrated clinical practicums including leadership-focused final practicum to refine nursing leadership skills during transition to RN.
- It features a high-fidelity simulation lab providing a safe, advanced skills practice environment that builds on prior LPN experience, enhancing clinical readiness.
- The program has a structured admission cycle with new cohorts admitted each spring and fall, accommodating working professionals’ schedules with weekend class options.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,919 Avg. Aid Amount
- 26% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,400 Avg. Aid Amount
- 47% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 23/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Carl Albert State College
- The Carl Albert State College LPN to RN Bridge program is attractive because it allows licensed practical nurses to complete their RN credentials entirely online within just two semesters, providing exceptional flexibility to balance work and family commitments.
- The program boasts a 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate for the LPN to RN track, indicating strong academic preparation and high success in licensure exams.
- Students in the program benefit from clinical placements at pre-approved sites in Oklahoma and Arkansas, ensuring hands-on experience under experienced professionals to enhance practical skills.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,400 Avg. Aid Amount
- 47% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 23/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,855 Avg. Aid Amount
- 41% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 20/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Northern Oklahoma College
- The LPN to RN Bridge program at Northern Oklahoma College offers up to 2 semesters of advanced standing credit based on mastery, significantly reducing time to degree completion for qualified LPNs.
- The program includes study materials and practice tests for the HESI PN-ADN Mobility exam, helping students prepare effectively for advanced placement evaluation.
- Admission is competitive with guaranteed entry within the academic year after passing the Transition to Registered Nursing course, ensuring timely progression for eligible LPNs.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,855 Avg. Aid Amount
- 41% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 20/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘25-’26 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves:
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic and career counseling on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted*.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area.
- Avg. Aid Amount – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Students w/ Aid – Percent of full-time, first-time students undergraduates awarded institutional aid.
- Online Enrollment – Percent of undergraduate students taking at least one distance education class.
- Graduation Rate – Percent of full-time, first-time receiving an award in 6 years.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
*Metrics #2-5 and #6-7 were equally weighted.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2025
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