LPN School Options

The world of online education is growing faster each year. As more classes are taught online (even biology), more students than ever are encouraged to attend college. Both new students, fresh out of high school, and seasoned veterans, returning after a long break, are enjoying the benefits of this new technology. One particular field that is reaping the rewards and seeing an increase of students is nursing. Now is a great time to get into healthcare; the field is continually needing more workers as the Baby Boomers age. Read through the options below detailing the different career paths available in nursing. Students can pursue just one or work towards a Master’s degree and much of the work can be accomplished online in the comfort of your own living room.

LPN/LVN – A LPN or LVN is a Licensed Practical Nurse or Licensed Vocational Nurse, depending on what state you live in. Studying to become a LPN can take from 12 to 18 months of school. They study math, English, biology, chemistry and anatomy & physiology. They also take a number of nursing classes. Some of these classes will be available online but the majority of the classes, as well as the clinical, will be in person. Clinicals usually occur once or twice a week and are generally long, 12-hour shifts at the local hospital under the direct supervision of the instructor. Upon completion of the program and after passing the state exam, they will receive a certificate of completion and their LPN (or LVN) license.

RN – A RN is a registered nurse. They attend a two-year program either through a private school or a local, community college. Generally if a LPN/LVN wants to continue their education, they can skip the first year because they have already completed that portion. This is called a LPN to RN program. Similar to LPN programs, many basic RN classes can be taken online but clinicals must be done in person. Upon completion of the program and after passing the state exam, they will receive an associate’s degree and their RN license.

BSN – A BSN is a bachelor’s degree in nursing received from a four year university. A RN would need to complete the final two years of school in order to earn a bachelor’s degree. It is called a RN to BSN program. These additional classes in science, sociology, psychology and nursing can be taken 100% online. It is advantageous for nurses to continue their studies because it can lead to higher pay, more job offers and job security. In most cases, no clinicals are needed.

MSN – A MSN is a master’s degree in nursing. This program is sometimes called a BSN to MSN program or, on occasion, a RN to MSN program. Generally they specialize in a particular area or study the business aspects of hospitals and nursing. All classes are 100% online.

No matter which route you take or how far you decide to go, nursing is a rewarding job, much of which can be learned online.