LPN to RN Bridge Programs in Nebraska
As a licensed practical nurse in Nebraska, you have made a career out of your ability to adapt to change, respond promptly and efficiently to new information, and put your patients first regardless of what is happening. These skills can really pay off when you are ready to take your career further and become a registered nurse. Find out more about LPN to RN programs in Nebraska and how they can help you reach your professional goals.
You are likely well aware of the nursing shortage that has affected Nebraska and the rest of the country. In fact, it has probably impacted your work and how you do your job. This problem is so serious that some schools are expanding their offerings to boost the number of graduating nurses in Nebraska. With your background and experience, you may be well ahead of other student RNs.
Why Should I Enter an LPN to RN Program in Nebraska?
If you are still trying to figure out if this educational path is the right move for you, you aren’t alone. Going back to school is a big decision, and you want to make sure that you make the right choice for your career and for the nursing field. This may be one of the best times for you to go back to school and strengthen the health care industry as a registered nurse. Health concerns and problems are becoming more complex all over Nebraska, requiring specialized training and experience. Earning an Associate’s degree or a Bachelor’s degree in registered nursing can help you prepare for these issues.
As a bonus, you may find that you earn more as a registered nurse than as a licensed practical nurse. Currently, LPNs in Nebraska earn an average of $38,000 per year (O*Net, 2014). At the registered nursing level, the median income is $56,500 per year (O*Net, 2014).
Curriculum of LPN to BSN Programs and LPN to ADN Programs in NE
In general, you should plan on spending at least one year on completing your RN degree. This investment may yield an Associate’s degree in nursing. To earn a Bachelor’s degree in nursing, you’ll likely need to return to school for at least three years. Your curriculum may be made up of classroom courses, clinical courses, and general education coursework. Through these different educational avenues, you should get the background and skills that are needed in a registered nursing career.
Learning about the curriculum of your LPN to RN bridge program can give you a good idea of what to expect on your educational journey. Some of the classes you may be expected to take include Nursing Across the Lifespan, Transition into RN Practice, Developmental Psychology, Pharmacology for Nursing Students, LPN to RN Role Transition, and Adult Nursing Care. By the time you complete this part of your education, you should have several hundred additional clinical hours behind you.
Financial aid is often a big part of a student’s decision to return to school. In addition to traditional financial aid avenues, such as the federal government, the state government, and the Nebraska Center for Nursing, you may want to look into special programs offered by local employers. These options may require you to commit to a specific job after graduation.
Ready to find out what is waiting for you in Nebraska’s nursing community? Learn more about your options now and reach out to LPN to RN programs in Nebraska.
