
Kansas LPN to RN/BSN Programs
Savvy Kansas LPNs know that in order to advance in the world of nursing, further education is needed. That’s why the state’s LPN to RN program options are so popular, with pathways for both ADN and BSN degrees. RNs are able to take on more responsibility, have increased career mobility, and have the option of entering niche specialties. They also earn more money; RNs in Kansas make roughly $17,380 more than LPNs do, via the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
You can find out more information on the LPN to RN educational pathway. Learn more about taking and passing the NCLEX-RN examination and check out the Kansas State Board of Nursing for information on licensing and available programs for nurses in the state.
2025 Best LPN to RN Programs in Kansas
Looking for the best LPN to RN programs in Kansas? practicalnursing.org has you covered. We've ranked the top programs to help you make a smart choice. Our list focuses on quality, affordability, and support for students. Start your journey to becoming an RN today with a program that fits your needs. Find out more about how we rank these programs here.
Washburn University
Topeka, KS - Public 4-Year - washburn.edu
Associate - LPN to BSN
Campus Based - Visit Website
Washburn University's LPN to BSN program offers licensed practical nurses a robust pathway to achieve a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This four-year, campus-based program awards 18 college credits to eligible LPNs, streamlining their educational advancement. With a curriculum designed to foster versatile nursing professionals, students engage in clinical placements throughout Northeast Kansas, gaining invaluable hands-on experience. The program culminates in eligibility for the NCLEX-RN, setting graduates on a path to diverse nursing roles. Accredited by CCNE, it emphasizes a generalist nursing approach, ensuring a comprehensive foundation for aspiring registered nurses.
- Four-year program duration.
- 18 college credits for LPNs.
- Campus-based learning.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Clinical placements in Northeast KS.
- Generalist nursing focus.
- Eligible for RN licensure.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Versatile nursing roles post-graduation.
- Accredited by CCNE.
Bachelor's - LPN-to-BSN
Campus Based - Visit Website
At Washburn University, the LPN-to-BSN program is meticulously structured for LPNs seeking to elevate their nursing credentials. Spanning four years, this program not only acknowledges prior learning with 18 transferable credit hours but also immerses students in clinical experiences across Kansas. Such exposure prepares them for the multifaceted demands of the nursing profession. Graduates are well-equipped to pass the NCLEX-RN, opening doors to expanded career opportunities. The program's accreditation by CCNE underscores its commitment to excellence in nursing education, making it a prime choice for those aiming to transition from LPN to BSN.
- Four-year BSN program
- 18 transfer credit hours
- Clinical placements statewide
- CCNE Accredited program
- NCLEX exam preparation
Labette Community College
Parsons, KS - Public 2-Year - labette.edu
Associate - Associate Degree Nursing Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
Labette Community College offers an Associate Degree Nursing Program designed for LPNs aiming to advance to RN status. Since its inception in 1968, the program has a strong track record, with more than 1,500 graduates. It's accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, ensuring high-quality education. The curriculum spans two years, equipping students for both NCLEX-PN and NCLEX-RN examinations. Additionally, it provides a seamless transition for LPNs and supports further education towards a bachelor's degree in nursing. Approved by the Kansas State Board of Nursing, this program stands out for its comprehensive preparation and successful graduate outcomes.
- Two-year Associate Degree Nursing
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- LPN to RN transition pathway
- Kansas State Board of Nursing approved
- Over 1,500 nurses graduated
- ACEN accredited program
Neosho County Community College
Chanute, KS - Public 2-Year - neosho.edu
Associate - Hybrid Program
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Neosho County Community College's Hybrid Nursing Program stands out for its adaptability, catering to LPNs aiming to advance their careers through an RN pathway. With intakes in August at Chanute and January at Ottawa, the program accommodates various schedules. Its hybrid model merges the convenience of online coursework with the indispensability of face-to-face training, ensuring students master both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Unique features include a concept-based curriculum, simulation labs, and clinical experiences, all designed to prepare graduates for the demands of modern healthcare. The program's dual admission cycles and LPN bridge option further enhance its accessibility and appeal.
- Hybrid nursing program format
- Admits students twice yearly
- LPN bridge option available
- Web-based curriculum components
- On-campus testing required
- Technical requirements necessary
- Concept-based learning approach
- Simulation and clinical training
- Multiple campus locations
Butler Community College
El Dorado, KS - Public 2-Year - butlercc.edu
Associate - LPN to RN (Advanced Standing)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Butler Community College's LPN to RN (Advanced Standing) program is tailored for Licensed Practical Nurses in Kansas looking to advance to Registered Nurse status. With a competitive admission process, applicants must hold a current LPN license and have completed prerequisite courses with a minimum 3.0 GPA. The curriculum is robust, covering critical areas such as Anatomy & Physiology, Pathophysiology, and English Composition, alongside a focus on patient care experience. This campus-based program not only requires a solid academic foundation but also mandates health and safety clearances, including vaccinations and a background check. It's an ideal choice for LPNs aiming to broaden their healthcare roles and responsibilities.
- Campus-based program.
- Requires current LPN license.
- 3.0 GPA or higher needed.
- 24 college credit prerequisites.
- Competitive admission process.
- Focus on patient care experience.
- Includes Anatomy & Physiology.
- Pathophysiology course required.
- English Composition part of curriculum.
- Developmental Psychology included.
- Therapeutic Nutrition course.
- College Algebra or equivalent.
- 16 third semester positions available.
- Background check required.
- Negative urine drug screen.
- Physical examination mandatory.
- Documentation of vaccinations.
- Health record submission.
- Degree check in Registrar's office.
- Reapplication process available.
Cloud County Community College
Concordia, KS - Public 2-Year - cloud.edu
Associate - LPN to ADN – Advanced Standing Track
Campus Based - Visit Website
Cloud County Community College's LPN to ADN Advanced Standing Track is designed for LPNs aiming to advance their careers to RN status efficiently. This program stands out by enabling students to achieve an Associate Degree in Nursing in just one year, leveraging their existing LPN experience. It focuses on equipping students with advanced nursing skills through a blend of academic and practical coursework, tailored for those ready to tackle the challenges of modern healthcare settings. Admission is competitive, with prerequisites including a 2.0 GPA, completion of specific courses, and passing an entrance exam, ensuring candidates are well-prepared for the rigorous curriculum ahead.
- One-year advanced nursing track
- For current LPNs
- Competitive admission process
- Multiple prerequisite courses required
- Entrance exam mandatory
- Minimum 2.0 GPA requirement
- Campus-based program
- Comprehensive nursing preparation
List of 2025 LPN to RN or LPN to BSN Programs in KS
Below is the 2025 best comprehensive list of LPN to RN programs in Kansas. Some of these programs may be a ADN or BSN degree, please visit the school's website for program details.
Chanute, KS
Neosho County Community College
- Associate - Hybrid Program
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid nursing program format
- Admits students twice yearly
- LPN bridge option available
- Web-based curriculum components
- On-campus testing required
- Technical requirements necessary
- Concept-based learning approach
- Simulation and clinical training
Concordia, KS
Cloud County Community College
- Associate - LPN to ADN – Advanced Standing Track
Campus Based - Website
- One-year advanced nursing track
- For current LPNs
- Competitive admission process
- Multiple prerequisite courses required
- Entrance exam mandatory
- Minimum 2.0 GPA requirement
- Campus-based program
- Comprehensive nursing preparation
Dodge City, KS
Dodge City Community College
- Associate - LPN to RN Completion
Campus Based - Website
- 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate in 2023
- Accredited nursing program
- Campus-based completion track
- Designed for working LPNs
- Kansas State Board approved
El Dorado, KS
Butler Community College
- Associate - LPN to RN (Advanced Standing)
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Requires current LPN license.
- 3.0 GPA or higher needed.
- 24 college credit prerequisites.
- Competitive admission process.
- Focus on patient care experience.
- Includes Anatomy & Physiology.
- Pathophysiology course required.
Fort Scott, KS
Fort Scott Community College
- Associate - LPN to RN
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- For LPNs advancing to RN.
- Focuses on clinical skills.
- Enhances patient care knowledge.
- Builds leadership abilities.
Hutchinson, KS
Hutchinson Community College
- Associate - Nursing - LPN to RN Online Bridge
Online Learning - Website
- Online program format.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Accredited by Kansas Board.
- Focus on nursing leadership.
- Emphasizes health promotion.
- Flexible for working nurses.
- Accredited by ACEN.
- Foundation for further education.
Overland Park, KS
Johnson County Community College
- Associate - LPN to RN Bridge
Campus Based - Website
- One-year bridge program
- Selective admission process
- Advanced standing for LPNs
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- 8-12 students admitted annually
- Requires prerequisite coursework
- Summer, fall, spring sessions
- Clinical skills development
Parsons, KS
Labette Community College
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing Program
Campus Based - Website
- Two-year Associate Degree Nursing
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- LPN to RN transition pathway
- Kansas State Board of Nursing approved
- Over 1,500 nurses graduated
- ACEN accredited program
Salina, KS
Salina Area Technical College
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Two-year Associate Degree program
- Total program cost $11,630
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- Full-time classroom and clinical training
- Multiple healthcare career paths
Topeka, KS
Washburn University
- Bachelor's - LPN-to-BSN
Campus Based - Website
- Four-year BSN program
- 18 transfer credit hours
- Clinical placements statewide
- CCNE Accredited program
- NCLEX exam preparation
- Associate - LPN to BSN
Campus Based - Website
- Four-year program duration.
- 18 college credits for LPNs.
- Campus-based learning.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Clinical placements in Northeast KS.
- Generalist nursing focus.
- Eligible for RN licensure.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
Wichita, KS
Wichita State University-Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology
- Associate - LPN to RN Bridge Program
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 48 Credit Hour Technical Certificate
- NCLEX-PN Exam Preparation
- No Experiential Learning Credit
- Pathway to Degree Nursing Programs
- Approved by Kansas State Board of Nursing
Kansas LPN vs RN Salary Comparison By Area
The table below compares the annual salary of a licensed practical nurse (LPN) to a registered nurse (RN), along with the percent increase that can be expected. The data was organized by the BLS for LPNs and RNs in Kansas.
On average an RN in Kansas earns $43,197, which is 10% less than the national average for registered nurses ($48,109).
City/Area | Avg LPN Salary | Avg RN Salary | % Diff |
---|---|---|---|
Wichita - KS | $43,010 | $57,100 | 32.8% |
Topeka - KS | $43,710 | $65,350 | 49.5% |
Lawrence - KS | $44,690 | $61,690 | 38.0% |
Manhattan - KS | $40,540 | $53,910 | 33.0% |
Table data taken from 2018 BLS https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291141.htm & https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes292061.htm