Should I earn my LPN first and then just bridge over to RN?

caliotter3 · Apr 7, 2012

Depends on the admissions situation for your RN program. If it would help, then maybe not a bad idea. But I would apply to the RN program first. You could probably get a clear picture by speaking to a nursing advisor at your school. Without knowing the specifics, we can only speak in generalities. A school nursing advisor will have the lowdown and can pass this on to you.

Double-Helix, BSN, RN · Apr 7, 2012

It will probably take about the same amount of time and money to do either. A year for your LPN, and another year for the bridge, versus two years for the RN. Price wise, I can't give you exact numbers, but it will probably be fairly comparable.

Do you plan on working as an LPN while you're getting your RN? I have to say, that's a big risk. The job market isn't great for new grad LPN's or RN's. There's a chance that you won't be as marketable if you're going for your RN, because the employer will assume you'll leave after you get your RN. You'll also be very busy with RN school, have limited time to work, and have to find an employer who is willing to work around your school schedule.

Since the job description is different for LPNs and RNs, you might find it easier just to stick with the RN, since that's your goal. Now if you think you might want to get your LPN, work for a couple of years, and then bridge, it might be worth it to get the LPN first. But if you plan on bridging immediately, in my opinion, it makes more sense to go straight for the RN.

whattodo4 · Apr 7, 2012

RN straight away I believe would be best if you plan on bridging right away from LPN to RN. Of course that is easier said than done, with wait list, the difficulty of getting into a nursing program etc...

If you are accepted into an RN program, ADN, bsn, diploma go for RN right away. If not, the question then becomes do I want the LPN(only takes one year, guaranteed acceptance) or do I wait a few semesters working on prereqs to get into an RN?

A question I am asking myself.

Ahill1988 · Apr 7, 2012

I'm doing my pre reqs for the LPN program starting Summer quarter, there are only 4 pre reqs. And then after I apply to the LPN program (1-2 year waitlist) I'm going to do the RN pre reqs in the meantime, there will be like 5 more. And with this RN program you have to work as an LPN for 500 hours before you can apply.