jaxstdnt

Most LPN Programs that I know of are "Vocational/Workforce Programs", the same classification as say a Medical Assisting, or PCT program would have. At the end of the program you don't receive a degree, you receive a Certificate. With that being said, it doesnt matter whether or not the LPN "Certificate" was received at an accrediated institution, or none accrediated. As long as you have a LPn License that is unrestricted you can apply for a bridge program. Like others have already suggested, I would advice your classmates to take their Pre-Req courses at a community college or university, but it doesnt matter where the LPN courses are taken as long as they pass the boards and obtain an LPN License. This may just be my opinion, but I think they are smart. It actually takes the same amount of time to receive their RN licensure. They will be able to work as an LPN while finishing the rest of their RN education. The competition to get into an RN bridge program is smaller, than applying freshly to an RN program without an LPN License. They could even take one Pre-req class at a time through their community college while completing the LPN program. Even if the LTC facility or where ever they obtain employment as a LPN doesnt offer tuition assistance, they will still have an edge, and experience that most New Grad RN's wont have. Experience working as a Nurse. They can even find employment in a facility that also hires RN's, and this will make their job hunt so much easier once they graduate as an RN, because they could simply transfer positions, or move up in the facility they are already hired in. I think they are thinking very wisely. They are not losing time, or money, because the LPN Program is the first year of Nursing school.