Many RNs are graduates of an LPN-to-RN program at a local community college.
To become a registered nurse (RN), most students complete an associate degree in the field before going on to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). For a licensed practical nurse (LPN), much of the coursework in an associate degree program has already been covered in the LPN training. Many LPNs opt to participate in an LPN-to-RN program in order to bypass the coursework, which cuts the time in half for completing the degree. Many New Hampshire community colleges offer this convenient program.
River Valley Community College
Located in western New Hampshire, River Valley Community College offers an advanced placement option for LPNs who wish to become RNs. Previous post-secondary credits are transferred to achieve the advanced placement; if not enough credits are transferable, LPNs can take an Accelerated Challenge Examination for placement in the program. Students in this placement option join second-year nursing students, after which it takes one year to complete the program and earn an associate degree in nursing. The program is a combination of classroom instruction, lab work and supervised clinical experience.
River Valley Community College
1 College Dr.
Claremont, NH 03743
603-542-7744
rivervalley.edu
Great Bay Community College
Great Bay Community College is located in the southeastern corner of New Hampshire, just a few miles from the Maine border. Students at Great Bay can earn an associate of science degree in nursing. Current LPNs who pass the Excelsior College examinations in health safety, health differences and chronicity can apply for advanced placement. Those who meet the requirements are given senior year status in the nursing program. The full-time advanced placement track typically takes one year to complete while a part-time schedule generally requires two years. Many nursing courses have a classroom and clinical component, which must be completed during the same semester.
Great Bay Community College
320 Corporate Dr.
Portsmouth, NH 03801
603-427-7600
greatbay.edu
NHTI Concord Community College
Formerly the New Hampshire Technical Institute, this school has expanded its original engineering technology programs to include degree programs in a variety of fields, including nursing. This competitive program offers an LPN-RN advancement option for current LPNs. For admission to the program, students must pass an Acceleration Challenge Exam and undergo a criminal history check and drug screening. Transfer credits from previous college courses may also be accepted. Students in the advancement option typically complete the program in one year, taking courses in ethics, microbiology and human development. Graduates earn an associate of science degree in nursing.
NHTI Concord Community College
31 College Dr.
Concord, NH 03301
800-247-0179
nhti.edu
Tags: Community College, advanced placement, associate degree, degree nursing, earn associate, Great Community