RN Degree

[phyl lpn]

I am 51 years old and currently an LPN, would it be worthwhile to become an RN at my age?

[BBFRN, BSN, PhD]

Definitely- I went from LPN-RN, and never regretted it. I got a big fat raise, and got to learn a lot in the process. For what it's worth, I am now working on my BSN, and will go on to a Master's.

A lot of the hospitals who are trying for magnet status are hiring RNs only right now, too. I have encouraged most of the LPNs I work with to get their RN, because unfortunately in the hospital system in my area will treat them better.

If age is a factor for you, the older people in my classes do better than the younger ones. I say go for it!

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

It depends on when you intend to retire. If you're planning to retire early within the next 5 or 6 years, I would remain an LPN. However, if you plan to continue working beyond the age of 60, I would make an attempt to become an RN. Also look at the school's affordability, since you wouldn't want $20,000 worth of student loans at your age.

Here's my summary: if you can find an affordable RN program offered by a community college or state university and plan to retire after the age of 60, I say go for it! The time is going to pass anyway, whether or not you earn an RN license. Good luck!

[Drysolong]

I am 51 years old and currently an LPN, would it be worthwhile to become an RN at my age?

I am an LPN (new) and a few years older than you. I am currently working through Excelsior for my RN and plan to go on to BSN and MSN.

[Sue7573]

I say go for it!!! I have heard that at the community college (which is accredited) that I go to, there is a program that allows students over a certain age (and I can't remember what age) can take so many hours a semester for free.... So that would help in not adding to a big bill.

GO FOR IT

[gitterbug]

Jump in, the future has a way of giving us opportunities we never dreamed possible if only we have the courage and strength to take the plunge.

[Ladyblu402]

I am 51 years old and currently an LPN, would it be worthwhile to become an RN at my age?

Same job/More money.

I am an RN. My sister is an LPN. I make twice as much as her. Same seniority. More opportunities/job choices as an RN

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

I agree with TheCommuter - it depends on when you plan to retire. I went back to school at 44 for a BSN/MSN and post-MSN certificate because I plan to work until I'm 70! (Yikes, that seems old - lol). At any rate, I knew my earning potential would be much better if I went on to further my education.

[LightCommaStix]

I'm also an LPN contemplating the transition to an ASN program. To help in my decision, I crunched the numbers. Tuitions, fees and supplies will run from $13,000-$16,000 (depending on which of the two programs I applied to accept me.) The excepted salary jump from my $13.50/hour LPN wages to average RN wages is greater than $16,000 in a single year. The math says it's a good investment.