Online Nursing Degree Programs for LPNs & RNs

One of the most important decisions you will make in pursing a career in the nursing field is which path to choose for a particular nursing degree.

A licensed practical nursing program usually involves a relatively short period of time in order to graduate from a Practical Nursing program, (typically 12 months or less). Many students who seek a career in nursing begin their training as a Practical Nurse (LPN) and Practical Nursing is considered the entry level of their nursing career.

Part of the LPN program includes supervised hands-on clinical training during which the students gain experience in a variety of patient care settings and facilities. Upon graduation from an accredited Practical Nursing Program graduates may apply to take the National Council Licensure examination for Practical Nurses, (NCLEX-PN) and use the title of LPN. To take the step from completion of Licensed Practical Nurse program towards a degree as a RN, Registered Nurse, there are two paths:

• The 2 year Associates Degree: this program focuses more on technical skills than theory and is often a stepping stone to the BSN. It allows a student to become a registered nurse and begin employment more quickly than a 4-year BSN program, thus it works better for many students. It is the entry-level nursing degree for technical nursing practice.

• BSN: “Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing” – this is a four year degree. It is the preferred entry-level nursing program by most nursing leaders because it provides the best opportunities in today’s job market.

In these Online Nursing Programs you will have a number of subjects related to nursing. These include anatomy, physiology, psychology, different sections of chemistry and biology, human growth and development, nutrition and first aid. You can also expect to have classes in pediatric, obstetric and surgical subjects. A nurse will only become a Registered Nurse upon passing the NCLEX-RN or the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses.

There are several programs available to nursing students, whether pursing a career as a LPN or RN. The programs can range from the traditional classroom setting at a community college or university to an accelerated program which allows you to complete your education in a shorter time period building on previous education and learning experiences. The increasing popularity of an online nursing program is another choice towards a career as either a LPN or RN.

Upon completion of their nursing program, Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) will provide skilled nursing care under the supervision of physicians and registered nurses. RNs, Registered Nurses, will assist doctors and supervisors in a variety of direct patient care areas. This care includes observing, making assessments, and recording symptoms, reactions and progress. The RN will also assist physicians during treatments and examinations, administer medications and assist in convalescence and rehabilitation.

To summarize; the LPN-to-RN degree programs prepare students to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Additionally, after completing these programs many graduates pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing or Master of Science in Nursing in order to further the advance of their nursing careers.