Penn College expands admission criteria for LPN to RN program

Pennsylvania College of Technology has expanded admission criteria for the LPN to RN associate degree program. In response to the growing demand for registered nurses, the newly named RN Bridge Program will expand beyond licensed practical nurses, allowing paramedics and surgical technologists to earn an associate degree in nursing in as few as three semesters.

Amber L. Morgan, director of nursing: associate degrees, said the change “aims to create pathways for non-nurse healthcare professionals who wish to become RNs by allowing them to build on their existing knowledge, skills and experience rather than requiring them to enter a traditional RN program designed for students with little to no healthcare background.”

“This change is so important because it creates a more efficient pathway into the nursing profession at a time when healthcare organizations continue to face significant nursing workforce shortages,” Morgan said. “Surgical technologists, paramedics and licensed practical nurses already possess extensive medical knowledge, clinical experience and patient care skills that align with many of the foundational concepts taught in nursing education.”

The expanded program also provides a flexible educational option for working adults balancing their careers, families and other responsibilities, factors often cited as barriers to continuing their education through traditional means.  

The nursing coursework follows a flexible Friday-Saturday schedule, with one day dedicated to synchronous online instruction and the other to hands-on learning experiences in laboratory and clinical settings.

“We were able to update the current LPN to RN program to address gaps for other medical professionals, allowing us to incorporate those students into a hybrid accelerated program designed for working adults,” Morgan said. “By creating a flexible and efficient pathway for these highly skilled professionals, the program strengthens the nursing workforce and expands opportunities for career advancement within the healthcare community.”

Although prerequisites for the program are not changing, Morgan said a first semester transition course will be adapted to ensure faculty are bridging the gap between LPNs, surgical technologists and paramedics. 
“The program expands upon a proven educational model that has successfully supported LPNs transitioning into registered nursing practice,” she added. “Surgical technologists and paramedics will join an established pathway that has demonstrated success in recognizing prior healthcare education and experience.”

The expanded admission pathway will be available to students applying for the Fall 2028 semester.

To learn more about the RN Bridge Program, call the School of Nursing & Health Sciences at 570-327-4525.

For information about Penn College, a national leader in applied technology education, email the Admissions & Secondary Partnerships Office or call toll-free 800-367-9222.