Like many other health care professionals, you may have started your career in nursing with the intention to complete the requirements for becoming a registered nurse at a later time. Fortunately, it is now easier than ever to transition to the role of a registered nurse through the preparation offered in LPN to RN bridge programs. Approximately one year of extra training will help you to take on the more complex activities performed by a registered nurse including devising patient care plans, dispensing and administering medications, and working closely with physicians for the care and restoration of patients.
Mesa Community College
Licensed practical nurses may apply to the Associate in Applied Science in Nursing program at Mesa Community College as an advanced standing student. LPN applicants must obtain a passing score on the practical nursing content exam form placement into Block 3. They must also complete a MCCCD First Year Experience Course (FYE) within the first two semesters at the college. Once admitted they will complete the requirements for the registered nursing degree in just one year. Students will gain the expertise to provide advocacy and individualized care for diverse populations, account for legal and ethical behaviors that reflect standards of professional nursing practice, coordinate care for multiple patients in collaboration with the health care team, communicate effectively and foster mutual respect and shared decision making with patients, families, and colleagues, and use evidence-based practice to meet individualized needs. Graduates will be eligible to take the NCLEX for licensure as a Registered Nurse. Day and evening class schedules are available.
Program Outline
Semester credits: 62-75 (including transfer courses)
Duration: 2 semesters
Method of instruction: Traditional
Course titles:
General education courses – College Math, Anatomy and Physiology with Lab I, Anatomy and Physiology with Lab II Chemistry, First Year Composition, Introduction to Psychology, Microbiology, Critical Reading, Humanities Elective
Core Courses – Nursing Theory and Science I, Nursing Theory and Science II, Nursing Theory and Science III, Nursing Theory and Science IV
Admission criteria:
- Apply for admission to Maricopa Community College before applying to the nursing program. Applicants must provide proof of identification and demonstrate residency status
- Meet with an Advisor or Admissions Officer to complete the application process for the nursing program
- Must provide high school diploma/transcripts or GED or sign the nursing application page containing the Declaration of High School Graduation or GED completion
- Obtain a passing school on a nursing program admission test
- LPN applicants must obtain a passing score on a practical nursing content exam for placement into Block 3 – the final decision rests with the Nursing Program Chair
- Must have current licensure as a licensed practical nurse and must remain in good standing with the Regulatory Board
- Complete a Level One DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card
- Complete a criminal background check – enrollment is contingent upon receiving passing results
- Must test negative on a timed urine drug screen
- Must submit the Health Declaration Form signed by a licensed health care provider
- Meet the technology requirements
Program Cost:
Tuition costs $8,010 for Maricopa County Residents. Students will also need to cover the cost for textbooks, background check, urine drug screen, health clearance, uniform, clinical supplies, and clinical placement registration.
Website: https://www.mesacc.edu/
Address: 1833 W. Southern Ave, Mesa, AZ 85202
Phone: 480-461-7106
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 92.47%
Scottsdale Community College
Licensed practical nurses may complete the registered nursing program at Scottsdale Community College in just one year after qualifying for advanced placement – based on the determination of the Nursing Department Chair. The program is approved by the Board of Nursing and includes theory and hands-on training. Students will complete the nursing courses in the outlined sequence and progress to the subsequent course only after passing the prerequisite course. All advanced standing students must complete First Year Experience in the first semester. Licensed practical nurses must have and maintain their license in good standing throughout the program. Graduates will be eligible to apply to sit for the NCLEX for Registered Nurses and function as a generalist nurse in acute and long-term care settings.
Program Outline
Semester credits: 62-75 (including transfer courses)
Duration: 2 semesters
Method of instruction: Traditional
Course titles:
General education courses – College Math, Anatomy and Physiology with Lab I, Anatomy and Physiology with Lab II Chemistry, First Year Composition, Introduction to Psychology, Microbiology, Critical Reading, Humanities Elective
Core Courses – Nursing Theory and Science I, Nursing Theory and Science II, Nursing Theory and Science III, Nursing Theory and Science IV
Admission criteria:
- Apply for admission to Maricopa Community College before applying to the nursing program. Applicants must provide proof of identification and demonstrate residency status
- Meet with an Advisor or Admissions Officer to complete the application process for the nursing program
- Must provide high school diploma/transcripts or GED or sign the nursing application page containing the Declaration of High School Graduation or GED completion
- Obtain a passing school on a nursing program admission test
- LPN applicants must obtain a passing score on a practical nursing content exam for placement into Block 3 – the final decision rests with the Nursing Program Chair
- Must have current licensure as a licensed practical nurse and must remain in good standing with the Regulatory Board
- Complete a Level One DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card
- Complete a criminal background check – enrollment is contingent upon receiving passing results
- Must test negative on a timed urine drug screen
- Must submit the Health Declaration Form signed by a licensed health care provider
- Meet the technology requirements
Program Cost:
Tuition costs $8,010 for Maricopa County Residents. Students will also need to cover the cost for textbooks, background check, urine drug screen, health clearance, uniform, clinical supplies, and clinical placement registration.
Website: https://www.scottsdalecc.edu/
Address: 9000 East Chaparral Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85256-2626
Phone: (480) 423-6000
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 91.07%
Phoenix College
Phoenix College’s Nursing program leads to an Associate in Applied Science Degree that qualifies candidates for licensure as a licensed practical nurse. The career ladder program includes training for nursing assistants and licensed practical nurses and takes them to the point of a registered nurse. They can also begin coursework in preparation for the bachelor of science degree in nursing. Licensed practical nurses seeking entry to the program must have a current license in good standing and pass the entrance practical nursing exam to qualify for admission to Block 3 of the program. Paramedics and veterans may also qualify for advanced placement based on space availability. The final decision on placement will depend on the decision of the Nursing Program Chair. Graduates are eligible to apply to sit for NCLEX for Registered Nurses.
Program Outline
Semester credits: 62-75 (including transfer courses)
Duration: 2 semesters
Method of instruction: Traditional
Course titles:
General education courses – College Math, Anatomy and Physiology with Lab I, Anatomy and Physiology with Lab II Chemistry, First Year Composition, Introduction to Psychology, Microbiology, Critical Reading, Humanities Elective
Core Courses – Nursing Theory and Science I, Nursing Theory and Science II, Nursing Theory and Science III, Nursing Theory and Science IV
Admission criteria:
- Apply for admission to Maricopa Community College before applying to the nursing program. Applicants must provide proof of identification and demonstrate residency status
- Meet with an Advisor or Admissions Officer to complete the application process for the nursing program
- Must provide high school diploma/transcripts or GED or sign the nursing application page containing the Declaration of High School Graduation or GED completion
- Obtain a passing school on a nursing program admission test
- LPN applicants must obtain a passing score on a practical nursing content exam for placement into Block 3 – the final decision rests with the Nursing Program Chair
- Must have current licensure as a licensed practical nurse and must remain in good standing with the Regulatory Board
- Complete a Level One DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card
- Complete a criminal background check – enrollment is contingent upon receiving passing results
- Must test negative on a timed urine drug screen
- Must submit the Health Declaration Form signed by a licensed health care provider
- Meet the technology requirements
Program Cost:
Tuition costs $8,010 for Maricopa County Residents. Students will also need to cover the cost for textbooks, background check, urine drug screen, health clearance, uniform, clinical supplies, and clinical placement registration.
Website: https://www.phoenixcollege.edu/
Address: 1202 W Thomas Road, Phoenix, AZ 85013
Phone: 602-285-7777
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 83.02%
Paradise Valley Community College
Licensed practical nurses may bridge to the registered nursing degree by enrolling the Associate of Applied Science Degree at Paradise Valley Community College. The program is a part of MaricopaNursing, a consortium of Maricopa Community College Nursing Programs. It is open to nursing assistants and licensed practical nurses and facilitates advanced placement based on an evaluation of education, experience, and passage of the placement exam. LPNs must hold a current, active license in good standing. The curriculum includes theory in the classroom that run simultaneously with the hands-on lab and clinical experiences designed to develop skills and an understanding of the nursing concepts. Graduates will be eligible to take the NCLEX to become a registered nurse and provide patient-centered care for diverse populations and commit to lifelong learning to improve the quality of life for patients, families, and communities.
Program Outline
Semester credits: 62-75 (including transfer courses)
Duration: 2 semesters
Method of instruction: Traditional
Course titles:
General education courses – College Math, Anatomy and Physiology with Lab I, Anatomy and Physiology with Lab II Chemistry, First Year Composition, Introduction to Psychology, Microbiology, Critical Reading, Humanities Elective
Core Courses – Nursing Theory and Science I, Nursing Theory and Science II, Nursing Theory and Science III, Nursing Theory and Science IV
Admission criteria:
- Apply for admission to Maricopa Community College before applying to the nursing program. Applicants must provide proof of identification and demonstrate residency status
- Meet with an Advisor or Admissions Officer to complete the application process for the nursing program
- Must provide high school diploma/transcripts or GED or sign the nursing application page containing the Declaration of High School Graduation or GED completion
- Obtain a passing school on a nursing program admission test
- LPN applicants must obtain a passing score on a practical nursing content exam for placement into Block 3 – the final decision rests with the Nursing Program Chair
- Must have current licensure as a licensed practical nurse and must remain in good standing with the Regulatory Board
- Complete a Level One DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card
- Complete a criminal background check – enrollment is contingent upon receiving passing results
- Must test negative on a timed urine drug screen
- Must submit the Health Declaration Form signed by a licensed health care provider
- Meet the technology requirements
Program Cost:
Tuition costs $8,010 for Maricopa County Residents. Students will also need to cover the cost for textbooks, background check, urine drug screen, health clearance, uniform, clinical supplies, and clinical placement registration.
Website: https://www.paradisevalley.edu/
Address: 18401 N. 32nd Street Phoenix, AZ 85032
Phone: 602-787-7000
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 94.23%
Gateway Community College
The Associate of Applied Science in Nursing at Gateway Community College is open to licensed practical nurses who want to complete the requirements for a registered nursing degree. The LPNs will qualify for placement in Block 3 of the program – as determined by the program chair – after passage of a practical nursing placement exam and submission of transcripts from an accredited practical nursing program. LPNs must also have a current license in good standing to remain in the program. The curriculum will build on their existing skills and enable them to expand their scope of responsibilities after obtaining a license to practice as a registered nurse. They will be eligible to take the registered nursing licensure exam upon completion of the program. Day and evening schedules are available.
Program Outline
Semester credits: 62-75 (including transfer courses)
Duration: 2 semesters
Method of instruction: Traditional
Course titles:
General education courses – College Math, Anatomy and Physiology with Lab I, Anatomy and Physiology with Lab II Chemistry, First Year Composition, Introduction to Psychology, Microbiology, Critical Reading, Humanities Elective
Core Courses – Nursing Theory and Science I, Nursing Theory and Science II, Nursing Theory and Science III, Nursing Theory and Science IV
Admission criteria:
- Apply for admission to Maricopa Community College before applying to the nursing program. Applicants must provide proof of identification and demonstrate residency status
- Meet with an Advisor or Admissions Officer to complete the application process for the nursing program
- Must provide high school diploma/transcripts or GED or sign the nursing application page containing the Declaration of High School Graduation or GED completion
- Obtain a passing school on a nursing program admission test
- LPN applicants must obtain a passing score on a practical nursing content exam for placement into Block 3 – the final decision rests with the Nursing Program Chair
- Must have current licensure as a licensed practical nurse and must remain in good standing with the Regulatory Board
- Complete a Level One DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card
- Complete a criminal background check – enrollment is contingent upon receiving passing results
- Must test negative on a timed urine drug screen
- Must submit the Health Declaration Form signed by a licensed health care provider
- Meet the technology requirements
Program Cost:
Tuition costs $8,010 for Maricopa County Residents. Students will also need to cover the cost for textbooks, background check, urine drug screen, health clearance, uniform, clinical supplies, and clinical placement registration.
Website: https://www.gatewaycc.edu/
Address: 108 North 40th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85034
Phone: (602) 286-8000
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90.22%
Chandler-Gilbert Community College
Licensed practical nurses can complete the requirements for a registered nursing degree in just one year of study at Chandler-Gilbert Community College. The nursing program is accredited by the ACEN and approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing and includes theory and hands-on learning to reinforce the theoretical principles. LPN candidates qualify for placement in Block 3 of the program after achieving a passing score on the practical nursing content exam. They may also be eligible for concurrent enrollment to complete both the AAS and BSN simultaneously. Graduates will be eligible to apply to sit for the NCLEX for registered nurses. license to work as a competent member of the healthcare team.
Program Outline
Semester credits: 62-75 (including transfer courses)
Duration: 2 semesters
Method of instruction: Traditional
Course titles:
General education courses – College Math, Anatomy and Physiology with Lab I, Anatomy and Physiology with Lab II Chemistry, First Year Composition, Introduction to Psychology, Microbiology, Critical Reading, Humanities Elective
Core Courses – Nursing Theory and Science I, Nursing Theory and Science II, Nursing Theory and Science III, Nursing Theory and Science IV
Admission criteria:
- Apply for admission to Maricopa Community College before applying to the nursing program. Applicants must provide proof of identification and demonstrate residency status
- Meet with an Advisor or Admissions Officer to complete the application process for the nursing program
- Must provide high school diploma/transcripts or GED or sign the nursing application page containing the Declaration of High School Graduation or GED completion
- Obtain a passing school on a nursing program admission test
- LPN applicants must obtain a passing score on a practical nursing content exam for placement into Block 3 – the final decision rests with the Nursing Program Chair
- Must have current licensure as a licensed practical nurse and must remain in good standing with the Regulatory Board
- Complete a Level One DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card
- Complete a criminal background check – enrollment is contingent upon receiving passing results
- Must test negative on a timed urine drug screen
- Must submit the Health Declaration Form signed by a licensed health care provider
- Meet the technology requirements
Program Cost:
Tuition costs $8,010 for Maricopa County Residents. Students will also need to cover the cost for textbooks, background check, urine drug screen, health clearance, uniform, clinical supplies, and clinical placement registration.
Website: https://www.cgc.edu/
Address: 626 East Pecos Road, Chandler, Arizona 85225-2499
Phone: 480-732-7000
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 85.92%
Carrington College
The LVN to ADN program at Carrington College prepares licensed practical nurses with the advanced skills and knowledge to become registered nurses. LPNs receive credit for coursework completed during the practical nursing program. The program culminates with an Associate of Science Degree. The curriculum offers a firm conceptual and technical foundation, intuitive and insightful client interactions, personal and professional ethics, and advanced skills and attitudes. Graduates are eligible to apply to take the NCLEX for Registered Nurses. The rigorous program is designed to be completed in eight months.
Program Outline
Semester credits: 21.5
Duration: 8 months
Method of instruction: Traditional
Course titles:
General education courses – English Writing and Composition, College Algebra, Introduction to Sociology, Introduction to Psychology, Chemistry for Health Care Professional, Interpersonal Communication, Human Anatomy and Physiology I with Lab, Human Anatomy and Physiology II with Lab, Microbiology with Lab
Core Courses – Fundamentals and Medical-Surgical Nursing I, Medical Surgical Nursing II, Pharmacology I, Pharmacology II, Community and Mental Health Nursing, Maternal Child Nursing, Medical Surgical Nursing III, Pediatric Nursing, Medical Surgical Nursing IV, NCLEX-RN Review, Manager of Care
Admission criteria:
- Must hold a current unencumbered LPN license
- Must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
- Must have a minimum 3.0 GPA on prerequisite courses – Human Anatomy with Lab, General Psychology, English Writing and Composition, Human Physiology with Lab, Developmental Psychology, General Microbiology, Sociology, Intermediate Algebra
- Pass the ATI TEAS Admission Assessment with a combined score of 58%
- Pass a criminal background check and drug screen
- Submit proof of a current American Heart Association CPR card (Healthcare Provider)
- Undergo a physical exam
- Submit proof of immunizations – Hepatitis B, MMR, Varicella, Tdap, TB, Influenza
Program Cost:
Tuition costs $18,810 for practical nurses who complete the program in the prescribed eight months.
Website: https://carrington.edu/
Address: 1001 W. Southern Ave., Suite 130, Mesa, AZ 85210
Phone: (480) 734-2378
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 73.33%
Crystal is a certified Registered Nurse (RN) with a passion for writing about nursing education. Through her articles, Crystal shares insights and tips to help fellow nurses enhance their skills and stay updated with the latest developments in the field. With a focus on practical advice and relevant topics, Crystal's writing is a valuable resource for nursing professionals seeking to advance their careers.