The Licensed Practical Nurse program provides quick entrance into the workforce. In one year or less, you may have completed the practical nursing diploma and commenced practice as a licensed practical nurse. That very training and experience as a licensed practical nurse will give you a major head start in a registered nursing program. LPN-to-RN transition (or bridge) programs in Wisconsin award credits that could place you in the second or third semester of a registered nursing program – to earn your degree in just one year! The best part is that you can work while you further your education. As a registered nurse, you can see a salary increase from $44,000 a year to $69,270 a year. You’ll also have the opportunity to work in a wide range of settings and continue your education to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing or Master of Science in Nursing degree.
Milwaukee Area Technical College
The LPN to ADN Progression AAS program offered by Milwaukee Area Technical College is open to licensed practical nurses who are interested in a career as a registered nurse. LPN training and work experience will qualify for advanced-standing credits for practical nurses. LPNs who hold a current license may receive up to 19 advanced standing credits after completing the challenge exam. The training will include theory and lab courses on campus that will provide the foundational study for the clinical rotations scheduled at health care facilities. A central of the curriculum that guides students’ success is the ability to act ethically, communicate effectively, make evidence-based clinical decisions, minimize risk of harm, and use technology to manage data and support clinical decisions. Graduates are eligible to take the RN Licensure Exam (NCLEX-RN).
Program Outline
Semester credits: 49 (not including transfer credits)
Duration: 2 semesters
Method of instruction: Residential
Course titles:
General Education Courses – Written Communication, Psychology of Human Relations or Lifespan Psychology, Introduction to Diversity Studies or Introduction to Sociology, General Anatomy and Physiology, Advanced Anatomy and Physiology, Oral Interpersonal Communication, Introductory Biochemistry, Microbiology
Core Courses – Nursing Complex Health Alterations I, Nursing Health Community Concepts, Nursing Clinical Skills Development, Nursing Intermediate Clinical Practice, Nursing Advanced Skills, Nursing Complex Health Alterations II, Nursing Management Concepts, Nursing Advanced Clinical Practice, Nursing Clinical Transition
Admission criteria:
- Submit a completed application to MATC online and pay the non-refundable application fee
- Must have a current license to practice as a registered nurse
- Complete the online student orientation
- Submit official transcripts from an accredited practical nursing program
- Complete the prerequisite courses with a minimum grade C – BIOSCI – 201 and 202, BIOSCI – 197, CHEM 207 and 208
- Complete the HESI pre-qualifying exam with a score of 900
- Attend a mandatory orientation
- Complete the required CastleBranch documents
- Provide documentation of immunization – MMR, Varicella, TB test, Tetanus, Hepatitis B, Influenza
- Must have current CPR certification
- Complete a criminal background check – must disclose everything that is part of the applicant’s record
- Complete the drug test verification form and upload to CastleBranch
- Must complete HIPAA Acknowledgement
- Sign the Essential Functions Signature Form
- Complete the Physical Exam Form with a licensed physician or physician’s assistant
Program Cost:
Tuition costs $1,905.60 per semester for full-time students (12 credits per semester). Students wishing to take 15 credits per semester will pay $2,382. Financial aid is available for eligible students.
- Website: https://www.matc.edu/index.html
- Address: 700 W. State Street, Milwaukee, WI. 53233
- Phone: (414) 297-MATC (6282)
- Toll Free: (800) 720-6282
- Email: info@matc.edu
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96.83%
Waukesha County Technical College
The LPN to Associate Degree in Nursing program at Waukesha County Technical College is offered to persons who are already working as a Licensed Professional Nurse. The program will help LPNs reach their goal to become a registered nurse much sooner through the completion of specific bridge courses. LPNs will be required to take a progression course prior to entry – designed to assist in the transition into the ADN program and the role of the registered nurse. Upon completion of the prerequisites and evaluation of their education and experience, they will be eligible to enter the program at the third semester. Instruction will be conducted in the classroom and high-tech Human Patient Simulator Lab, which will prepare students for the clinical rotations at local healthcare facilities. New students are admitted in the fall and spring semesters through a petition process. Graduates will be eligible to apply to sit for the NCLEX-RN. WCTC has one of the highest pass rates on the NCLEX in southeastern Wisconsin.
Program Outline
Semester credits: 65 (including transfer courses)
Duration: 2 semesters
Method of instruction: Residential
Course titles:
General Education Courses – English Composition, Oral/Interpersonal Communication Speech, Gen Anatomy & Physiology, Advanced Anatomy & Physiology, Microbiology, Developmental Psychology, Introduction to Psychology, Introduction to Sociology
Core Courses – LPN Progression Transition, College Success Strategies, Physiology for Healthcare, Nursing Complex Health Alterations, Nursing Mental Health Community Concepts, Nursing Advanced Skills, Nursing Intermediate Clinical Practice, Nursing Complex Health Alterations II, Nursing Management Concepts, Nursing Advanced Clinical Practice, Nursing Management and Professional Concepts, Nursing Clinical Transition
Admission criteria:
- Submit an application to WCTC online and pay the $30 application fee
- Submit official high school transcripts
- Complete placement assessment (Reading and Writing)
- Submit Verification of Employment Form – must have completed 2,000 hours of work experience as a LPN to participate in the program
- Submit copy of current (non-expired) State LPN license by email to the Admissions Office
- Complete the NLN exam and earn a composite score of 100 or better
- Complete the Industry Credential Inquiry Form
- Complete the General Studies courses with a grade C or better
- Must have valid BLS Provider certification from the American Heart Association
- Obtain a Permit to register for LPN to Nursing Bridge courses
- Complete a background check
- Complete the bridge courses – LPN Progression Transition, College Success Strategies, Physiology for Healthcare
- Complete the required CastleBranch documents
- Submit documentation of immunization – MMR, Varicella, Influenza, Hepatitis B, TB Test
Program Cost:
Tuition costs $143.45 per credit for Wisconsin residents and $215.18 for out-of-state residents. Additional fees for textbooks, uniform, insurance, CastleBranch, background check, immunization, and drug screen will apply. Financial aid is available for eligible students.
- Website: https://www.wctc.edu/
- Address: 800 Main Street, Pewaukee, WI 53072
- Phone: 262-691-5566
- Email: info@wctc.edu
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96.39%
Fox Valley Technical College
The LPN to ADN program at Fox Valley Technical College is designed for currently practicing LPNs in the State of Wisconsin who want to complete the requirements for a registered nursing degree. The program awards 19 credits from the practical nursing program to give LPNs advanced standing in the program. They will continue their training with the latest technology and procedure. Hands-on training opportunities will cover a range of clinical skills, health assessments, and medication administration. The modern skills lab is equipped with technology to simulate life-like scenarios designed to build confidence and skills. Students will practice and develop critical thinking, leadership, team building, and accurate communications required for effective work in various working environments and with diverse populations. Graduates will be eligible to take the NCLEX to become a registered nurse.
Program Outline
Semester credits: 66
Duration: 2 semesters
Method of instruction: Residential
Course titles:
General Education Courses – English Composition I, General Anatomy and Physiology, Development Psychology, Oral/Interpersonal Communication, Advanced Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, Introduction to Psychology, Introduction to Sociology
Electives – Holistic Health for Health Care Providers, Medical Law, Ethics & Profess, Healing the Dying, Medical Terminology, People Skills for Health Professionals
Core Courses – LPN to ADN Pathway, Nursing Fundamentals, Nursing Skills, Nursing Pharmacology, Nursing: Introduction to Clinical Practice, Nursing Health Alterations, Nursing Health Promotion, Nursing Clinical Care Across Lifespan, Nursing Introduction to Clinical Care Management, Nursing Complex Health Alterations I, Nursing Mental Health Communication Concepts, Nursing Intermediate Clinical Practice, Nursing Advanced Skills, Nursing Complex Health Alterations II, Nursing Management and Professional Concepts, Nursing Advanced Clinical Practice, Nursing Clinical Transition
Admission criteria:
- Apply for admission online and pay the application fee of $30
- Submit a final, official high school transcript or official copy of GED/HSED certification scores
- Meet with the Nursing Department Chair to discuss program requirements
- Submit a copy of practical nursing license to FVTC
- Must read, acknowledge, and submit a Technical Standards form
- Submit an official copy of Post-Secondary transcript(s)
- Complete the TEAS and earn a composite score of 58.7 or higher – TEAS fee is $65
- Complete the FVTC Orientation online
- Sign up to attend the New Student Registration (NSR)
- Apply for Financial Aid
- Must complete Anatomy and Physiology
- Complete all required coursework with a grade C or better
- Complete a criminal background check prior to any internship clinical experience
- Complete a health history by a physical, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant
- Provide proof of vaccination or lab report of titer for – MMR, Tdap, Hepatitis B, Varicella, Influenza
- Complete an acceptable TB test or chest x-ray
- Provide evidence of current American Heart Association BLS Provider CPR and AED certification
- Maintain health care insurance coverage
Program Cost:
The estimated program cost is $9,758 for Wisconsin residents. Costs does not include all books or materials and supplies. Financial aid is available for eligible students.
- Website: https://www.fvtc.edu/
- Address: 1825 N. Bluemound Drive, Appleton, WI 54912-2277
- Phone: 800-735-FVTC (3882)
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100%
Blackhawk Technical College
Licensed practical nurses may enter the Associate Degree in Nursing at Blackhawk Technical College at the third semester based on their prior education and experience. The college provides world-class training with exceptional instructors who want to see students succeed. LPNs will learn how to deliver patient care as a registered nurse in a variety of health care settings. The program is delivered on a full-time or part-time schedule. Graduates will be eligible to take the NCLEX for Registered Nurses. Licensed practical nurses must have an active license and two years’ experience in practice at the time of application. They will need to complete a Nursing Bridge course before entering the third semester. Acceptance to the program will be based upon space availability and not on petition.
Program Outline
Semester credits: 65
Duration: 4 semesters
Method of instruction: Residential
Course titles:
General Education Courses – Written Communication, General Anatomy and Physiology, Advanced Anatomy and Physiology, Speech, Microbiology Introduction to Psychology, Introduction to Sociology, Development Psychology
Core Courses – Nursing Bridge Course, Nursing Complex Health Alterations I, Nursing Mental Health & Community Concepts, Nursing Intermediate Clinical Practice, Nursing Advanced Skills, Nursing Complex Health Alterations II, Nursing Management and Professional Concepts, Nursing Advanced Clinical Practice, Nursing Clinical Transition
Admission criteria:
- Apply to BTC by November 1 for consideration for the Summer Bridge course
- Submit in BTP application form or submit online
- Complete the entrance exam – ACCUPLACER
- Submit official high school transcript and official college transcripts from all colleges attended
- Must have graduated from an accredited LPN program for credits to be accepted
- Attend an Advising Registration and Orientation session
- Schedule a meeting with a College Program Advising and indicate LPN progression status
- Complete all pre-petition course requirements – Chemistry, Written Communication, General Anatomy and Physiology
- Submit a Letter of Intent indicating professional goals, clinical experience, and contact information
- Provide a copy of LPN license
- Provide documentation of at least 1,000 hours of LPN work experience – must be on official business letterhead
- Provide a Letter of Recommendation from a direct Nursing Supervisor on facility letterhead – must include attendance, punctuality, and skill in providing patient care
- Submit transcript demonstrating a TEAS proficient level (65.7%)
Program Cost:
Tuition costs $143.45 per credit for Wisconsin residents and $215.18 for out-of-state residents. Additional fees for textbooks, uniform, insurance, CastleBranch, background check, immunization, and drug screen will apply. Financial aid is available for eligible students.
- Website: https://www.blackhawk.edu/
- Address: 6004 S County Road G, Janesville, WI 53546
- Phone: (608) 758-6900
- Email: info@blackhawk.edu
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 91.23%
Bryant & Stratton College
A licensed practical nurse who holds a current license to practice as a Licensed Practical Nurse in Wisconsin may elect to take a PLA to earn college credit for NUR 100, NURS 103, and NURS 215 to complete the associate degree in nursing at Bryant & Stratton College in less time. Students choosing this route must score level 2 proficiency on 103 and 215 pharmacology sections of the ATI content mastery series competencies and pass a comprehensive skills competency assessment after scoring level 2 proficiency on the ATI Content Mastery Test. Students who do not pass a nursing PLA in one attempt will not receive college credit for the courses tested. LPN applicants must also demonstrate proficiency in general education courses to qualify for advanced placement. Graduates will be eligible to sit for the NCLEX for Registered Nurses. All students must take the NCLEX-RN review course at the end of the program.
Program Outline
Semester credits: 72 (including transfer credits)
Duration: 3 semesters
Method of instruction: Residential
Course titles:
General Education Courses – Introduction to Information Literacy, Public Speaking and Rhetorical Persuasion, Research and Writing I, Research and Writing II, College Mathematics: Quantitative Reasoning, Practices in Analytic Reasoning and Critical Thinking, Principles of Psychology, Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology Applications, Pathophysiology, Anatomy and Physiology II,
Core Courses – Lifespan Development and Nursing Practice, Family Child Nursing, Medical Surgical Nursing I, Geriatric and Mental Health Nursing, Medical Surgical Nursing II, Nursing Issues, Leadership and Research, Nursing Internship
Admission criteria:
- Submit a completed application for admission to Bryant and Stratton College
- Submit official high school transcript or GED
- Must have completed an accredited Practical Nursing Program
- Must have a current license to practice as an LPN in Wisconsin
- Must take a PLA exam to receive credit for first-semester nursing courses
- Attend an interview with the Nursing Program Director
- Take and pass the English and Mathematics placement evaluations
- Take and pass the TEAS with a score no lower than the 40th national percentile
- Provide documentation of a recent physical exam, drug screen, and other required lab test result
- Submit to a criminal background check
- Complete a health history by a physical, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant
- Provide proof of vaccination or lab report of titer for – MMR, Tdap, Hepatitis B, Varicella, Influenza
- Complete an acceptable TB test or chest x-ray
- Provide evidence of current American Heart Association BLS Provider CPR and AED certification
- Maintain health care insurance coverage
- Obtain a negative drug screen whenever a screen is required
Program Cost:
Tuition costs $9,600 per semester or $640 per credit for nursing students. The additional costs for textbooks, uniforms, equipment, fees, and other supplies are the student’s responsibility. Financial aid is available for eligible students.
- Website: https://www.bryantstratton.edu/
- Address: 10950 W Potter Rd, Wauwatosa, WI 53226
- Phone: 414-302-7000
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 80.16%