
Louisiana LPN to RN/BSN Programs
LPNs in Louisiana are turning to LPN to RN programs in order to advance their careers and move up in the nursing field. The state offers both LPN to ADN and LPN to BSN programs to meet this increasing need, as many LPNs are seeing how the autonomy, wider variety of nursing pathways, and higher salaries of RNs can help them reach their goals. RNs in Louisiana make an average of $25,300 more per year than LPNs do, making it an easy choice for many.
If you are looking for more information on the LPN to RN educational pathway, learn about the the NCLEX-RN exam and check out the Louisiana State Board of Nursing for information on licensing and available associations for registered nurses in the state.
2025 Best LPN to RN Programs in Louisiana
Looking for the best LPN to RN programs in Louisiana? PracticalNursing.org has you covered. We rank programs to help you find the right fit for your nursing career. Our list focuses on quality, affordability, and student success. Start your journey to becoming an RN today with our trusted recommendations. Learn more about how we rank programs here.
University of Louisiana at Monroe
Monroe, LA - Public 4-Year - ulm.edu
Associate - LPN to BSN
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Louisiana at Monroe offers a comprehensive LPN to BSN program designed for licensed practical nurses seeking to advance their careers. This program allows LPNs to transition into the baccalaureate degree program, providing a pathway to higher education and professional growth. With a focus on both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, students are prepared for a wide range of nursing roles. The curriculum includes courses in pharmacology, health assessment, and adult health nursing, among others. Admission requires a current Louisiana LPN license, a minimum GPA of 2.8 in pre-nursing courses, and completion of specific prerequisites. The program emphasizes a blend of online and campus-based learning to accommodate working professionals.
- Campus-based program.
- Requires current LA LPN license.
- Minimum GPA of 2.8 required.
- Courses in pharmacology and health assessment.
- Blend of online and campus learning.
- Total degree hours: 120.
- Admission deadlines in February and September.
- Focus on adult health nursing.
- Includes practical skills training.
- Prepares for a wide range of nursing roles.
- Emphasis on theoretical knowledge.
- Pathway for LPNs to BSN.
- Comprehensive curriculum.
- Accommodates working professionals.
- Includes nursing research course.
Bachelor's - LPN to BSN
Campus Based - Visit Website
The LPN to BSN program at the University of Louisiana at Monroe offers licensed practical nurses a comprehensive pathway to earn their bachelor's degree in nursing. Designed for working professionals, this program provides a flexible curriculum that transforms practical nursing experience into advanced academic credentials. Students complete 120 total credit hours, with a structured sequence of pre-nursing, bridge, and professional nursing coursework. The program emphasizes clinical skills, research-based practice, and comprehensive healthcare knowledge across various nursing specialties. Admission requires a minimum 2.8 GPA in pre-nursing courses and a current Louisiana LPN license.
- 120 total credit hours
- 2-year full-time program
- Minimum 2.8 GPA required
- Professional nursing focus
- LPN license prerequisite
- Multiple semester progression
- Clinical skill development
- Research-based curriculum
Dillard University
New Orleans, LA - Private 4-year - dillard.edu
Bachelor's - LPN to BSN
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Dillard University's LPN to BSN program offers a comprehensive pathway for licensed practical nurses to advance their nursing careers. As Louisiana's oldest accredited baccalaureate nursing program, the university provides a flexible hybrid learning model that accommodates working professionals. Students complete 120 credit hours, including a robust nursing core and general education curriculum. The program uniquely integrates service learning, requiring 30 hours of community engagement, and offers advanced placement opportunities for experienced nurses. Graduates benefit from state-of-the-art simulation labs, personalized academic advising, and a curriculum designed to enhance critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills in healthcare.
- 120 total credit hours
- Hybrid learning format
- State Board of Nursing approved
- Advanced placement options
- Service learning requirement
- Modern nursing simulation labs
- Personalized academic advising
Louisiana State University-Alexandria
Alexandria, LA - Public 4-Year - lsua.edu
Associate - LPN to ASN
Campus Based - Visit Website
The LPN to ASN program at Louisiana State University-Alexandria is tailored for licensed practical nurses seeking to advance their careers to become registered nurses. This program combines prerequisite courses with a clinical program spanning three to four semesters, depending on competency testing outcomes. Prerequisites are available both face-to-face and online, while nursing courses require on-campus attendance with clinical experiences in Rapides Parish. Students benefit from personalized advising to navigate the application process and curriculum planning. This program is an excellent pathway for LPNs aiming for RN licensure, offering a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills in a supportive learning environment.
- LPN to ASN pathway
- 72 credits for degree
- Face-to-face and online prerequisites
- On-campus nursing courses
- Clinical sites in Rapides Parish
- Personalized nursing advisor
- Three to four semesters clinical program
- Competency testing required
- Supports transition to RN role
- Offers Lettie Pate Scholarship
- Program accreditation available
- Career opportunities in various nursing fields
- Includes critical nursing, ER, maternal child nursing
- Access to School of Nursing Student Handbook
- Program outcome data provided
McNeese State University
Lake Charles, LA - Public 4-Year - mcneese.edu
Bachelor's - LPN-to-BSN
Campus Based - Visit Website
The LPN-to-BSN program at McNeese State University provides licensed practical nurses a strategic pathway to advance their nursing career and earn a comprehensive Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This targeted program enables working nurses to build on their existing clinical experience, expand their professional knowledge, and unlock broader healthcare opportunities. Designed for flexibility, the program supports practicing nurses in achieving higher education while maintaining their current employment. Students can expect a curriculum that bridges practical nursing skills with advanced theoretical understanding, preparing them for leadership roles in diverse healthcare settings.
- Bachelor of Science Nursing Degree
- Program for Licensed Practical Nurses
- Career Advancement Pathway
- Builds on Existing Nursing Experience
- Supports Working Nurses
Southeastern Louisiana University
Hammond, LA - Public 4-Year - southeastern.edu
Associate - LPN to RN
Campus Based - Visit Website
Southeastern Louisiana University's School of Nursing offers a comprehensive LPN to RN program designed to elevate your nursing career. This program is tailored for licensed practical nurses aiming to become registered nurses, providing a seamless transition with a focus on practical skills and theoretical knowledge. With a strong emphasis on hands-on experience, students are prepared to meet the demands of the healthcare industry. The program is offered on-campus, ensuring direct access to faculty and resources. Admission requirements include an LPN license and prerequisite coursework, making it accessible for those ready to advance their nursing education.
- On-campus program
- LPN to RN transition
- Focus on practical skills
- Theoretical knowledge emphasis
- Hands-on experience
- Direct faculty access
- Comprehensive nursing education
- Admission requires LPN license
- Prerequisite coursework needed
Bachelor's - LPN to BSN Option
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Southeastern Louisiana University's LPN to BSN Option provides a flexible pathway for licensed practical nurses to advance their nursing careers. This hybrid program transforms practical nursing experience into a comprehensive bachelor's degree, enabling students to broaden their clinical skills and professional opportunities. The program accommodates working nurses by offering flexible learning formats, potentially reducing time and financial barriers to career progression. Designed for practicing LPNs, this pathway allows seamless transition into broader nursing roles with enhanced clinical knowledge and leadership preparation.
- Hybrid program format
- Designed for practicing LPNs
- Career advancement pathway
- Flexible learning options
- Builds on practical nursing experience
List of 2025 LPN to RN or LPN to BSN Programs in LA
Below is the 2025 best comprehensive list of LPN to RN programs in Louisiana. Some of these programs may be a ADN or BSN degree, please visit the school's website for program details.
Alexandria, LA
Louisiana State University-Alexandria
- Associate - LPN to ASN
Campus Based - Website
- LPN to ASN pathway
- 72 credits for degree
- Face-to-face and online prerequisites
- On-campus nursing courses
- Clinical sites in Rapides Parish
- Personalized nursing advisor
- Three to four semesters clinical program
- Competency testing required
Baton Rouge, LA
Baton Rouge Community College
- Associate - LPN to RN Entry Track
Campus Based - Website
- Competitive nursing program entry
- 27 prerequisite credit hours
- Minimum 2.8 GPA required
- TEAS exam minimum 65%
- Challenge exams for advancement
- Multiple campus locations
- SACSCOC accredited program
Bossier City, LA
Bossier Parish Community College
- Associate - Nursing, LPN to RN Transition Track, AS
Campus Based - Website
- 72 total credit hours
- Designed for practicing LPNs
- Competitive admission process
- Extensive clinical experience
- NCLEX-RN preparation
- Multiple clinical specialty rotations
- Accredited nursing program
- Day program format
Eunice, LA
Louisiana State University-Eunice
- Associate - LPN to ASN
Campus Based - Website
- LPN to ASN program.
- Accredited by ACEN.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Advanced standing credit for LPNs.
- Integrates electronic learning technologies.
- Campus-based program.
- Requires unencumbered LPN license.
- Focuses on compassionate nursing care.
Hammond, LA
Southeastern Louisiana University
- Bachelor's - LPN to BSN Option
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- Designed for practicing LPNs
- Career advancement pathway
- Flexible learning options
- Builds on practical nursing experience
- Associate - LPN to RN
Campus Based - Website
- On-campus program
- LPN to RN transition
- Focus on practical skills
- Theoretical knowledge emphasis
- Hands-on experience
- Direct faculty access
- Comprehensive nursing education
- Admission requires LPN license
Lafayette, LA
South Louisiana Community College
- Associate - LPN to RN Transition Track
Campus Based - Website
- Accelerated 3-semester pathway
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- Clinical rotations in Acadiana
- ACEN and LSBN accredited
- Average RN salary $80,760
- Transfer options available
- TEAS exam required
- Financial aid options
Lake Charles, LA
McNeese State University
- Bachelor's - LPN-to-BSN
Campus Based - Website
- Bachelor of Science Nursing Degree
- Program for Licensed Practical Nurses
- Career Advancement Pathway
- Builds on Existing Nursing Experience
- Supports Working Nurses
SOWELA Technical Community College
- Associate - LPN to RN
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN Accredited Nursing Program
- Campus-based Associate Degree
- 74 Total Program Hours
- Advanced Placement for LPNs
- National Council Licensure Exam Preparation
- Summer Semester Entry
- Comprehensive Clinical Training
- Prerequisite Courses Required
Monroe, LA
Louisiana Delta Community College
- Associate - LPN to RN Track
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN Accredited Nursing Program
- Two Admission Tracks Available
- 91.67% NCLEX First-Time Pass Rate
- Clinical Partnerships with Regional Hospitals
- 37 Credit Hours Supporting Courses
- Multiple Campus Locations
- Science Courses Maximum 5 Years Old
University of Louisiana at Monroe
- Bachelor's - LPN to BSN
Campus Based - Website
- 120 total credit hours
- 2-year full-time program
- Minimum 2.8 GPA required
- Professional nursing focus
- LPN license prerequisite
- Multiple semester progression
- Clinical skill development
- Research-based curriculum
- Associate - LPN to BSN
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Requires current LA LPN license.
- Minimum GPA of 2.8 required.
- Courses in pharmacology and health assessment.
- Blend of online and campus learning.
- Total degree hours: 120.
- Admission deadlines in February and September.
- Focus on adult health nursing.
Natchitoches, LA
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
- Bachelor's - LPN to BSN
Campus Based - Website
- 100% Online Program Option
- Multiple Campus Locations
- Flat Rate Tuition
- Accelerated Completion Path
- First Louisiana Public Nursing Program
- Accredited Nursing Program
- Experienced Nursing Faculty
New Orleans, LA
Delgado Community College
- Associate - LPN-RN Transition
Campus Based - Website
- Two program track options
- Limited enrollment
- Applicant rating system
- Guaranteed admission for Delgado PN graduates
- Selective admission process
Dillard University
- Bachelor's - LPN to BSN
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 120 total credit hours
- Hybrid learning format
- State Board of Nursing approved
- Advanced placement options
- Service learning requirement
- Modern nursing simulation labs
- Personalized academic advising
Schriever, LA
Fletcher Technical Community College
- Associate - LPN to ASN
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- 70 credit hours required
- Five semester duration
- Accredited by ACEN
- Eligible for NCLEX-RN exam
- Minimum 2.75 GPA required
- HESI A2 score required
- Financial aid available
Shreveport, LA
Southern University at Shreveport
- Associate - Nursing (LPN/RN Fast Track)
Campus Based - Website
- Associate Degree in Nursing.
- Accelerated LPN-RN Track.
- Eligibility for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Campus-based program.
- Focus on liberal arts and sciences.
- Prepares for diverse healthcare settings.
- Supports professional and personal growth.
- Recognizes LPN/LVN experience.
Thibodaux, LA
Southern University at Shreveport
- Associate - Nursing (LPN/RN Fast Track)
Campus Based - Website
- Associate Degree in Nursing.
- Accelerated LPN-RN Track.
- Eligibility for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Campus-based program.
- Focus on liberal arts and sciences.
- Prepares for diverse healthcare settings.
- Supports professional and personal growth.
- Recognizes LPN/LVN experience.
Louisiana 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 retrieved from the BLS for LPNs and RNs in Louisiana.
On average an RN in Louisiana earns $39,918, which is 17% less than the national average for registered nurses ($48,109).
City/Area | Avg LPN Salary | Avg RN Salary | % Diff |
---|---|---|---|
New Orleans, Metairie - LA | $42,520 | $66,730 | 56.9% |
Baton Rouge - LA | $38,460 | $60,420 | 57.1% |
Shreveport, Bossier City - LA | $39,480 | $64,730 | 64.0% |
Lafayette - LA | $39,450 | $62,930 | 59.5% |
Alexandria - LA | $40,440 | $63,960 | 58.2% |
Monroe - LA | $37,810 | $61,320 | 62.2% |
Houma, Thibodaux - LA | $39,000 | $59,480 | 52.5% |
Lake Charles - LA | $39,180 | $60,740 | 55.0% |
Hammond - LA | $40,470 | $66,270 | 63.8% |
Table data taken from 2018 BLS https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291141.htm & https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes292061.htm