From LPN to RN in the U.S.: Fast-Track Your Nursing Career

For Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), advancing to a Registered Nurse (RN) is a key step in career development. RNs earn higher salaries, have broader employment opportunities, and enjoy greater job stability. Many U.S. schools offer LPN → RN bridge programs, including Fort Myers Technical College (FMTC) and Herzing University, providing flexible pathways for working LPNs to advance their careers.

Why Transition from LPN to RN?

• Significant Salary Increase: LPNs have a median annual salary of around $59,730, while RNs earn $93,600 on average, nearly a 50% increase.

• Broader Career Options: RNs can work in acute care, pediatrics, mental health, surgical care, and leadership roles.

• Stronger Job Growth: The RN workforce is expected to add 192,000 new jobs over the next decade, far surpassing the 34,900 for LPNs.

• Career Ladder: RN licensure is a prerequisite for pursuing BSN, MSN, or advanced practice nursing roles.

Fort Myers Technical College (FMTC)

Professional Nursing LPN → RN Diploma Program

Program Overview

• Program Name: Professional Nursing (LPN-RN) Diploma in Nursing Program

• Credential: Diploma; graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam

• Total Hours: Approximately 900 hours

• Program Length: About 1 year (January or July start)

Curriculum

• Classroom instruction + simulation labs + clinical rotations at Lee County healthcare facilities

• Courses cover medical-surgical, pediatric, obstetric, geriatric, psychiatric nursing, community health, pharmacology and medication administration, patient assessment, and safety

Schedule

• Classroom: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM

• Clinical rotations: 6:30 AM – 7:00 PM (9–12 hour shifts, may include days, evenings, nights, or weekends)

Cost and Financial Aid

• Approximately $6,716.74 (excluding books, uniforms, background check, and other fees)

• Federal/state financial aid, scholarships, and veteran education benefits available

Accreditation

• Approved by the Florida Department of Education and the Florida Board of Nursing

• Holds pre-accreditation status from the NLN CNEA (National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation)

Admission Requirements

• Minimum 18 years old; high school diploma or GED

• Valid, unencumbered Florida LPN license

• Official transcripts, including LPN program coursework

• IV Therapy certificate and BLS (Basic Life Support) certification

• If not graduated from FMTC LPN program: at least two years of full-time nursing experience (~4,000 hours)

• TEAS exam if required, plus interview, recommendation letters, health check, drug screening, and background check

Career Outlook

• Average starting salary: $56,160/year
• Employment settings: hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, community healthcare, hospice, and more

Herzing University

LPN → RN Bridge Pathway (ASN or BSN)

Program Options

• LPN → ASN: 12–20 months, graduates eligible for NCLEX-RN

• LPN → BSN: 2–3 years, higher-level degree for leadership roles or graduate studies

Format

• Online courses + local clinical placements

• Credit for previous LPN coursework to shorten program length

• Covers core nursing topics, pharmacology, health assessment, leadership, and management

Accreditation

• Program accredited by CCNE

• Available in multiple states with flexible start dates

Admission Requirements

• Valid LPN license in good standing in the applicant’s state

• High school diploma or GED

• Official transcripts, including LPN coursework

• Completion of prerequisite courses (e.g., basic nursing or pharmacology, depending on program)

• Letters of recommendation and relevant work experience (especially for BSN bridge)

• Compliance with background check, physical exam, and immunization requirements

Ideal Candidates

• LPNs seeking quick transition to RN via ASN

• LPNs aiming to pursue BSN for career advancement or future graduate studies

How to Apply / Enroll

FMTC Application Steps

1. Meet Basic Requirements: Age, diploma/GED, Florida LPN license, BLS/IV Therapy certification

2. Submit Application Materials: Transcripts, work experience proof (if required), recommendation letters, TEAS exam results (if required)

3. Complete Interview & Selection: Limited-access program; evaluated on GPA, experience, letters, interview, and other materials

4. Additional Requirements: Background check, drug screening, physical exam, immunizations

5. Attend Orientation: Program expectations, clinical placement overview, and support services

Herzing University Application Steps

1. Meet Basic Requirements: LPN license, high school diploma/GED, prerequisites

2. Submit Application Materials: Official transcripts, letters of recommendation, work experience

3. Complete Additional Requirements: Background check, physical exam, immunizations; interview/assessment if required

4. Confirm Enrollment: Accept admission offer and register for courses

FMTC vs. Herzing Comparison

Age Considerations for LPN → RN Advancement

Different age groups may have distinct priorities when choosing a bridge program:

Conclusion

• Choose FMTC: Ideal for Florida LPNs seeking a fast, low-cost transition to RN, especially for those 30+ balancing work and family.

• Choose Herzing: Best for younger LPNs or those planning long-term career growth, especially if pursuing a BSN or higher degree.

Regardless of age, transitioning from LPN → RN can significantly boost salary, job stability, and future career opportunities.

HZRZING

FMTC