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by
Melissa Mills, BSN (Columnist)
Paramedics provide fundamental life-saving treatment to critically ill and injured people before they can get to a physician and other healthcare staff who work in controlled environments.
However, some paramedics go into becoming an RN for career advancement and to have a broader scope of practice.
While nursing and paramedic scopes of practice differ, some overlapping skills and competencies exist. Let's explore education, career pathways, salary expectations, and paramedic-to-RN bridge programs that are offered.
What Are Paramedic-to-RN Bridge Programs?
Paramedic-to-RN bridge programs are specially designed nursing education course that achieve knowledge transfer and career advancement. They offer paramedics transfer credits for their education and hands-on practice as a paramedic, which can reduce the total number of nursing credits needed.
These teach nursing theory, skills, and other competencies to help paramedics obtain an associate's or bachelor's degree in nursing. Graduates are fully prepared to sit for the NCLEX and work as registered nurses upon passing.
Best Paramedic-to-RN Bridge Programs in 2025
Allnurses uses a robust and unique methodology to rank the best paramedic-to-RN programs. We survey our readers to understand what they value most when selecting schools and compare these attributes such as licensure examination pass rates, graduation rates, student-to-faculty ratios, price, method of instruction, duration of the program, and admission rates.
We compare hundreds of the most prominent nursing schools in the United States to provide our readers with the most comprehensive rankings possible.
1. Mesa Community College
Mesa Community College (MCC) offers a Paramedic to RN Bridge Program, providing paramedics a clear path to becoming an RN. This program, available every Spring and fall, integrates online theoretical courses with in-person clinical experiences. Admission is based on a "first come, first serve" basis, ensuring accessibility for all applicants. Graduates earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing, making them eligible for RN licensure and offering a seamless transition to further nursing education and career advancement opportunities.
- Tuition: $97-$145 (Maricopa County residents) or $372-$518 (non-residents) per credit hour
- Degree Earned: AAS in nursing
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Location: Mesa or St. Pheonix, AZ
2. Dalton State College
Dalton State College offers an accelerated pathway from Paramedic to Associate of Science in Nursing. This three-semester curriculum is delivered via a blended format, allowing students to complete didactic/theory courses online and clinical rotations in person. Once graduates complete the AAS, they can seamlessly transfer into the RN-to-BSN program to earn a bachelor's degree in nursing and advance their careers even further.
- Duration: 3 semesters
- Credit Hours: 70
- Tuition: $106.80 per credit (GA residents) $394.53 per credit (non-residents)
- Degree Earned: Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN)
- Accreditation: ACEN
- Location: Dalton, GA
Applicants accepted into the LPN/Paramedic Pathway (Bridge) possessing a current, unencumbered, and valid license to practice as an LPN or Paramedic at the time of application will be granted 8 hours of "credit by exam."
3. Southwest Baptist University
If you want to turn your paramedic license into an Associate of Science in Nursing Degree and live in the Springfield or Salem, Missouri, areas, check out Southwest Baptist University. You can upskill into an RN position in just two years by transferring credits into the nursing degree curriculum.
- Duration: 2 years
- Credit Hours: 50
- Tuition: $16,925-$17,215 total estimated cost (including fees)
- Degree Earned: ASN
- Accreditation: ACEN
- Location: Springfield or Salem, MO
4. Kent State University
This Ohio university offers a complete program for students who want to go from a paramedic to an ADN. You'll learn how to use the nursing process to care for patients, use therapeutic communication skills, and work within your new practice scope.
- Duration: 12 months
- Credit Hours: 70
- Tuition: $12,673 (OH residents), 22,144 (non-residents) annual tuition
- Degree Earned: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
- Accreditation: ACEN
- Location: Liverpool or Salem, OH
5. Clark State College
Clark State College offers an accelerated Paramedic to RN Transition Program at its Beavercreek campus. This program prepares paramedics to become registered nurses through a blend of online courses and in-person clinical rotations. Admission is competitive, requiring prerequisite courses and TEAS test completion. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam for licensure, boasting a 95.65% pass rate in Spring 2023. Additionally, 100% of graduates secured employment within 6-12 months of graduation.
Students ready to obtain their BSN have the option to enroll in their BSN completion program upon graduation.
- Duration: 5 semesters
- Credit Hours: 65
- Tuition: $175 per credit hour (OH residents) or $294 per credit hour (non-residents)
- Accreditation: ACEN
- Degree Earned: AAS in Nursing
- Location: Springfield, OH
6. Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College
At Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, the accelerated Paramedic-to-RN program allows paramedics, as well as RTs and LPNs, to complete their Associate's Degree in just 12 months. Classes are held one day per week after the required core coursework is completed. This challenging but manageable schedule is ideal for working adult learners who aim to pass the NCLEX-RN and quickly advance into their new nursing careers.
- Duration: 12 months
- Credit Hours: 71
- Tuition: $17,350 (GA residents), $25,324 (non-residents) estimated total tuition
- Degree Earned: ASN
- Accreditation: ACEN
- Location: Tifton, GA
7. Tallahassee Community College
This Paramedic-to-RN bridge program begins in the Summer semester only. Students must consider when to apply to ensure their acceptance and enrollment into this paramedic-to-LPN bridge program.
- Credit Hours: 72
- Tuition: $100.83 per credit (FL residents), $387.27 per credit (non-residents)
- Accreditation: ACEN
- Degree Earned: Practical Nursing License
- Location: Tallahassee, TN
8. Albany State University
The Healthcare-Professional-to-RN Bridge Program at Albany State University in Georgia is explicitly designed for motivated adult learners with professional healthcare backgrounds. The program is accelerated for students licensed as paramedics so that completion can be done quickly.
New cohorts are accepted every five semesters and meet one day a week to complete lectures, online coursework, and clinical rotations.
- Duration: 6 semesters
- Credit Hours: 60
- Tuition: $95.00 per credit hour
- Degree Earned: ASN
- Accreditation: ACEN
- Location: Albany, GA
9. Parkland College
Parkland College in Illinois offers an ACEN-accredited bridge program designed for professionals who hold a paramedic license. The curriculum is blended, meaning students complete some in-person classes and others online. Nursing students take up to 14 credit hours each semester and gain the knowledge and expertise needed to begin their career as an RN-ADN.
- Duration: 3 semesters
- Credit Hours: 59
- Tuition: $17,494 (in-district), $22,852 (out-of-district) full-time total estimated tuition
- Degree Earned: ADN
- Accreditation: ACEN
- Location: Champaign, IL
10. Northland Pioneer College
Certified paramedics in Arizona can attend Northland Pioneer College to attain an Associate of Applied Science degree in nursing. Successful completion qualifies graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam to earn their RN license. These healthcare professionals must complete prerequisite courses before applying to the ADN program.
- Credit Hours: 65
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Tuition:$88 per credit (AZ residents), $410 per credit (non-residents)
- $70 per credit for Navajo and Apache County Residents
- Degree Earned: ASN
- Accreditation: ACEN
- Location: Holbrook, AZ
11. Herzing University
Herzing University tops many of our "Best of" rankings and does not disappoint as an option for active paramedics looking to launch a career in nursing care.
Students can choose from an associate's or bachelor's degree in nursing for maximum flexibility and career advancement. Unique features of this program include flexible scheduling, experienced faculty, and a curriculum sure to set you up for career success.
- Duration: 20-28 months
- Credit Hours: 72-120
- Tuition:Campus dependent
- Accreditation: ACEN (ADN); CCNE (BSN)
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Degree Earned & Location: Seven different campuses across three states.
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ADN or BSN degree options are available at the following campuses:
- Nashville, TN
- Orlando, FL
- Tampa, FL
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BSN degree option only available at the following campuses:
- Brookfield, WI
- Kenosha, WI
- Madison, WI
- Minneapolis, MN
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ADN or BSN degree options are available at the following campuses:
12. Utah Tech University
Utah Tech University (UTU) offers a Paramedic-to-RN Bridge Program designed for paramedics aiming to become a registered nurse. This program combines online courses with in-person clinical rotations to provide comprehensive training. Admission is competitive, requiring prerequisite coursework. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam for licensure and have the option to enroll in a BSN program, facilitating further advancement in their nursing careers.
- Duration: 2 years
- Credit Hours:
- Tuition: $7,149 estimated total tuition rate (UT residents)
- Degree Earned: ASN
- Accreditation: ACEN
- Location: St., George, UT
13. Community College of Baltimore
This college offers a unique program just for Emergency Medical Service and Military Personnel to earn an ADN. The applicant's paramedic license must be current to qualify for this 70-credit hour course and clinical program. Students can complete the syllabus during a day, blended, or evening/weekend schedule at the Essex or Catonsville campuses.
- Credit Hours: 70
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Tuition: per credit hour
- $122 (Baltimore County residents)
- $241 (MD & York County, PA residents)
- $372 (non-residents)
- Degree Earned: ADN
- Accreditation: ACEN
- Location: Baltimore, MD
About Paramedic-to-RN Bridge Programs
Paramedic-to-RN programs provide a streamlined pathway for paramedics to transition into registered nursing (RN) roles. These programs recognize the clinical experience and skills paramedics bring from their pre-hospital care settings and aim to build upon these foundations to prepare them for the broader scope of practice as registered nurses.
Paramedic-to-RN programs typically offer two main pathways:
1. Paramedic-to-ADN RN Bridge Programs
Paramedic-to-ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) bridge programs are designed for paramedics who already hold a certification or associate degree in paramedicine. These programs build upon the paramedic's existing knowledge and skills, focusing on nursing-specific coursework and clinical training. The curriculum often includes courses in nursing theory, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and advanced patient care. These programs generally take around 1.5 to 2 years to complete, depending on the student's prior coursework and clinical experience.
2. Paramedic-to-BSN RN Bridge Programs
Paramedic-to-BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) bridge programs are tailored for paramedics seeking a bachelor's degree in nursing. In addition to the coursework covered in ADN programs, paramedic-to-BSN programs include advanced coursework in leadership, research, community health, and evidence-based practice. These programs prepare nurses for broader career opportunities and roles in management, education, or specialized nursing practice. Paramedic-to-BSN programs typically take about 3 to 4 years to complete, depending on prior education and clinical experience.
Online Paramedic-to-RN Programs
Many paramedic-to-RN bridge programs are offered in an online format, providing flexibility for paramedics who may be working full-time or balancing other responsibilities. Online programs often allow students to complete coursework asynchronously, accessing lectures and assignments at their convenience while still meeting clinical requirements in local healthcare settings.
These programs are designed to accommodate the unique schedules of paramedics while providing the rigorous education necessary to become qualified registered nurses.
Paramedic-to-RN Bridge Program Admission Requirements
Paramedic-to-RN programs require all standard nursing prerequisites and requirements to be accepted. Since this is a bridge program, it's designed to make the transition easier between one level of healthcare education or certification to another. However, be sure to research and meet program prerequisites and requirements, which can vary between colleges.
Standard nursing program prerequisites include the following:
- Achieve a minimum GPA (usually between 2.5 and 3.0) in all high school and previous college courses
- Provide proof of previous paramedic education and hours worked for transfer credits
- Pass a background check and drug screen
- Complete a CPR for the healthcare provider course
- Submit proof of required immunizations and a recent physical exam
- Achieve a passing score on the TEAS, HESI, or other entrance exam
- Complete and submit an application, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement about why you want to become a registered nurse
Paramedic-to-RN Bridge Program Curriculum
This type of program capitalizes on licensed paramedics' unique professional and clinical experiences. While all general education and nursing theory coursework is required, some credits may be rewarded upon enrollment that shorten the overall program length.
The nursing courses required depend heavily on the nursing degree the student earns. ADN program curriculum varies from the BSN curriculum. However, general requirements for all undergraduate nursing degrees include the following courses:
- Anatomy and Physiology is the study of structures in the human body and teaches nurses how systems and organs work together for optimal function
- Pharmacology is the study of how chemicals affect the normal functioning of the human body
- Pathophysiology studies of how patients are affected by injury, disease, and other conditions
- Microbiology is the study of genetics and reproduction
- Nursing Theory teaches students what nursing practice is, what nurses do, and why and how they do it
- Nursing Fundamentals is the study of basic nursing principles
- Psychology and Mental Health Nursing is the specialized field that cares for the mental health and psychological conditions of patients
- Women's and Infant Health is the specialized field that cares for the unique needs of women and infants
Paramedic-to-RN Clinicals
Paramedic-to-RN bridge programs incorporate extensive clinical components tailored to leverage the professional experiences of licensed paramedics. Despite their prior healthcare background, these programs emphasize the acquisition of advanced nursing skills and competencies through hands-on clinical training. Clinical rotations are diverse and cover essential areas such as medical-surgical nursing, pediatric nursing, obstetrics, and community health. These experiences are crucial for paramedics transitioning to nursing roles, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge in practical healthcare settings under the guidance of experienced nurses. This comprehensive clinical training ensures that graduates are well-prepared to deliver competent and compassionate patient care across various healthcare settings.
Paramedic-to-RN Bridge Program Costs
The costs of a Paramedic to RN Bridge program can vary based on several factors. Here are some key elements that can influence the overall expense:
- Tuition Rates: Tuition is a major component of the total cost. Rates can differ significantly between schools, influenced by the institution's location, whether it's public or private, and its reputation. Online programs may also have different rates for in-state and out-of-state students.
- Program Duration: The length of the program affects the total cost. Accelerated programs that enable students to complete their RN qualification quickly may have higher tuition costs but can be more economical in terms of time and potential earnings lost compared to longer programs.
- Additional Fees: Beyond tuition, many programs charge additional fees, including technology fees, laboratory fees, clinical fees, and graduation fees. It's important to review the fee structure of the specific program you are considering.
- Textbooks and Learning Materials: The cost of textbooks and other learning materials can add to the overall expense. Some programs include digital resources in the tuition, while others may require the purchase of physical textbooks.
- Transportation and Clinical Costs: If the program includes clinical rotations, students might face costs related to transportation, uniforms, medical equipment, and required background checks or vaccinations.
Financial Aid Insights for Paramedic-to-RN Students
Students transitioning from paramedic to registered nursing are encouraged to explore financial aid options such as federal and state grants, scholarships from healthcare organizations and nursing associations, and work-study programs to decrease the overall costs of nursing school. Understanding loan terms, including federal versus private loan options, is crucial for managing educational costs effectively. These avenues provide essential support for financing your nursing education.
Salary Expectations of Registered Nurses in 2025
To help you make an informed decision, we have outlined the differences in RN salaries as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Statistics (BLS). As of 2023 registered nurses made approximately $94,480 annually or just over $45 per hour.
Top Paying States for RNs
- California: $137,690.00
- Hawaii: $119,710.00
- Massachusetts: $113,440.00
- Oregon: $111,030.00
- Alaska: $109,210.00
Top Paying Industries for RNs
- Federal/State/Local Govt. (NOT schools or hospital) $114,860.00
- Employment Services: $110,230.00
- Pharmaceutical & Medicine Manufacturing: $108,640.00
- Medical Equiptment Manufacturing: $106,640.00
- Merchant Wholesalers, Nondurable Goods: $103,940.00
Highest Employment Areas for RNs
- General Hospitals $96,830.00
- Phsycian Offices $83,110.00
- Home Health $87,430.00
- Outpatient Care Centers $102,640.00
- Employment Services $110,230.00
It's essential to note that the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) doesn't differentiate between ADN-RN and BSN-RN salaries, nor do they provide specific data on specialties, geographies, or employer career ladder programs. Fortunately, ZipRecruiter offers detailed insights, helping you understand how various factors impact nursing salaries. This can assist you in making informed career decisions based on your qualifications and goals.
Average ADN RN Salary
- Hourly Wage: $39.00
- Annual Wage: $80,321.00
U.S Cities with the highest ADN RN salaries are:
- Santa Clara, CA: $100,597.00
- Washington, DC: $99,301.00
- San Francisco, CA: $96,438.00
- Marysville, WA: $94,872.00
- Gren River, WY: $94,857.00
Average BSN RN Salary
- Hourly Wage: $46.00
- Annual Wage: $96,546.00
U.S Cities with the highest BSN RN salaries are:
- San Mateo, CA: $121,673.00
- Green River, WY: $188,365.00
- Johnstonville, CA: $115,131.00
- Richmond, CT: $113,883.00
- Stamford, CT: $112,504.00
While a BSN has the potential to increase your earnings as a registered nurse, the education also serves as a stepping stone for post-graduate studies to become APRNs, which can see even higher salaries. Keep in mind salary figures serve as general guidelines and will vary depending on location, years of experience, and nursing specialty.
Registered Nurse Career Outlook
In 2022, the United States had approximately 3,172,500 nursing professionals. The BLS forecasts a 6% increase in the nursing workforce by 2032, adding around 177,400 new positions and bringing the total to about 3,349,900. Moreover, there will be approximately 193,100 job openings for Registered Nurses (RNs) each year over the next decade.
This projected growth offers significant opportunities for new nurses, driven by factors such as a current nurse shortage, decreasing enrollments in nursing programs, and the impending retirement of many current nurses. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for skilled nurses continues to be strong, especially due to the healthcare needs of an aging population.
Job competition can vary by region, with some areas having a higher concentration of nurses than others. Therefore, it's crucial to research local healthcare demands when planning your nursing career, as the needs and opportunities can differ from state to state.
Is a Paramedic-to-RN Bridge Program Worth It?
Transitioning from a paramedic to a registered nurse (RN) offers numerous advantages, though it also comes with some challenges. Understanding these can help you make an informed decision about your career path.
Pros of Paramedic to RN Programs
- Efficient Pathway: Designed to leverage your existing medical knowledge, allowing for a quicker transition.
- Minimal Admission Requirements: Often fewer prerequisites, making them accessible with less initial academic burden.
- Flexible Scheduling: Options like online and part-time formats enable you to continue working while studying.
- Career Advancement: Opens up various opportunities in healthcare, including leadership roles and specialized positions.
- Enhanced Skills: Includes coursework in patient care, clinical decision-making, and healthcare management, broadening your skill set.
Cons of Paramedic to RN Programs
- Intensive Curriculum: Rigorous and condensed, which can be demanding for working students.
- Limited Clinical Experience: Bridge programs may offer fewer clinical hours compared to traditional programs, limiting hands-on training.
- Limited Specialization Options: Fixed curriculum with fewer opportunities for specialization.
- Admission Competition: High competition for admission with stringent criteria.
- Varied Program Quality: Quality can vary, so choosing a reputable program is essential.
Earning an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) through a Paramedic to RN program provides a solid foundation for career advancement. Each option offers distinct benefits, so carefully consider your career goals, personal circumstances, and the specific program's pros and cons to make the best decision for your professional development.
Paramedic-to-RN Program Accreditation
The importance of enrolling in an accredited Paramedic to RN program cannot be overstated for several key reasons:
- Adherence to High Educational Standards: Accreditation ensures that the program meets or exceeds national criteria, providing a strong educational framework, qualified faculty, adequate resources, and effective clinical experiences.
- Ongoing Evaluation and Improvement: Accredited programs are regularly reviewed to ensure quality and relevance, keeping pace with advancements in nursing education.
- NCLEX-RN Exam Preparation: Accredited Paramedic to RN programs typically offer comprehensive preparation for the NCLEX-RN exam, essential for licensure as a registered nurse.
- State Licensure Eligibility: Graduating from an accredited program is often a prerequisite for state nursing licensure, ensuring compliance with professional standards.
- Career Advancement: Employers prefer candidates from accredited programs due to their adherence to educational standards, leading to greater career opportunities and the ability to pursue specialized nursing roles.
- Academic Recognition and Credit Transferability: Credits earned from an accredited program are generally recognized by other institutions, facilitating the pursuit of advanced degrees like a BSN, MSN, or DNP.
- Reputation and Credibility: A degree from an accredited program signifies adherence to rigorous national standards, enhancing a graduate's professional reputation and credibility.
Accreditation by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) is the primary standard for associate degree programs. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredits programs at the BSN level and above.
How to Choose a Paramedic-to-RN Program
In addition to ensuring program accreditation, reasons for choosing a nursing school will vary per student and their specific needs. Some students value the cost of education, while others may place greater emphasis on NCLEX pass rates, academic reputation, or other factors.
Although it will vary by individual, a survey by allnurses revealed the top 11 reasons nursing students chose their programs:
- Cost
- High NCLEX Pass Rate
- Location
- Academic Reputation
- Availability of Financial Aid and Scholarships
- Length of Time to Obtain Degree
- Flexibility of Schedule
- Curriculum
- Campus and Surroundings
- Nursing Clinicals Location
- Availability of Online Courses
Ultimately, prospective students should assess their needs and pick schools that are the best fit for them.
FAQ and Additional Readings
Heading back to school can be intimidating. There are many moving pieces to consider, which can leave you with many questions. Check out some of the most common FAQs below to help you along your Paramedic-to-RN journey.
Q: Can I get financial aid to help me pay for a Paramedic-to-RN bridge program?
This answer depends on a few factors.
First, choose an accredited nursing college to ensure they can accept state and federal financial aid monies. Second, you'll want to complete the Federal Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as part of your application process. Once you submit your information, you'll be given a financial aid package based on your needs.
Q: Is a Bachelor of Science in Nursing better than an Associate of Science in Nursing?
ADN and BSN-prepared nurses both take the NCLEX-RN and operate under the same scope of practice. However, data from the AACN indicates that BSN-prepared nurses provide higher quality care with better patient outcomes, prompting a push for all nurses to attain a bachelor's degree in nursing.
The job opportunities available to ADN versus BSN nurses can vary. ADN nurses are typically prepared for clinical bedside roles, while BSN nurses who complete additional nursing theory and leadership courses qualify for management, research, and leadership positions.
Depending on where you live, an associate-level nurse can earn a similar income to BSN-prepared nurses, but in some areas, they may earn significantly less. Job opportunities in rural areas or regions with fewer nurses are more likely to include associate-trained nurses. Those who aspire to work in urban settings at top healthcare facilities should consider pursuing their BSN to ensure eligibility, as many premier healthcare facilities have Magnet status and require all nurses to hold a BSN.
Each prospective nurse should evaluate their goals and the places they or wants to work to determine if an associate's or a bachelor's in nursing is better for them. There is no shame in starting with an associate degree; you can always advance to your BSN later in your career. Many healthcare facilities will assist in covering the cost of this advancement.
Q: As a paramedic, can I pursue a BSN directly and skip the associate degree?
Absolutely, as a paramedic, you have the option to directly pursue a bachelor's in nursing and bypass the associate degree. Depending on your previous educational background, there are various pathways available to you. Explore the following options to find the one that best fits your needs and career goals.
You can even go straight for your master's in nursing with the following programs: