LPN to RN Bridge Programs in Utah
As a licensed practical nurse, you may already be experienced when it comes to the diverse health care needs of Utah. Not only does the state have a growing population of aging citizens, it is home to many young and growing families. With all of the duties that doctors have, it is abundantly clear why nursing professionals are the backbone of this field.
Growth in this field may present many opportunities for you. In response to an expanding need for nurses, some Utah schools are expanding options for working nurses. With accelerated and bridge options, you can complete your nursing degree while maintaining a busy work schedule.
Learn more about opportunities near you by contacting LPN to RN programs in Utah.
Why You Should Enter an LPN to RN Degree Program in Utah
Your motivation to become a registered nurse depends on what you want from your career. If you want to play a bigger role in patient care, becoming an RN can help you do that. If you want to contribute more to the field of health care, you can achieve that with a registered nursing degree. If you would like to explore more job opportunities or work in a different setting, earning your RN license can open the door for you.
Even if money is not your primary motivator, earning more money can be a huge benefit to you and your family. While licensed practical nurses in Utah earn an average of $42,600 per year, registered nurses bring in an average of $59,700 per year (O*Net, 2014).
RN Curriculum of LPN to BSN/LPN to ADN Programs in Utah
One of the biggest benefits of completing your RN degree is the fact that you are already way ahead of the curve when compared to other RN students. Many people are coming to the field of nursing from another field. In comparison, you have experience, some of your nursing courses completed, and an established sense of clinical judgment. This experience can make you a leader amongst your peers and set you up for success.
Whether you want to earn an Associate’s degree (LPN to ADN) or a Bachelor’s degree, your education should be about one year shorter because of your existing LPN training. To complete your degree, you’ll need to take a variety of general education courses and advanced nursing courses. Some of the classes you may find in your curriculum include Maternal-Child Care, Nursing Care of the Medical-Surgical Patient, Nursing Care of Gerontological Patients, Nursing Leadership, and Advanced Physiology & Pathophysiology.
Outside of your classroom hours, you’ll need to go through a list of clinical experiences. In these experiences, you should develop an understanding of your scope of practice, become confident working in this new area of nursing, and deepen your knowledge of different specialties.
As you prepare to return to school, start looking into financial aid programs. The Utah Nurses Foundation awards scholarships during each academic cycle.
Your nursing career can take you anywhere you want to go. Find out how when you contact LPN to RN programs in Utah.