LPN-to-RN Bridge Prerequisites: The Complete Course Checklist- everything you need before you start an LPN-to-RN bridge — the full prerequisite list, what your LPN coursework may already cover, and how to finish the rest while working.
| Quick answerMost LPN-to-RN bridge programs require a core set of prerequisites before the nursing coursework begins: Anatomy & Physiology I and II, microbiology, English composition, statistics (or college algebra), and developmental/general psychology. Some programs credit part of your LPN coursework toward these. The biggest advantage for a working LPN is that these prerequisites can usually be completed online and self-paced — so you can keep earning your LPN wage while you prepare. Confirm the exact list and any recency window with your target program. |
You’re already a licensed practical nurse, you know bedside care, and you’re ready to become an RN. The bridge programs that get you there are built to credit your existing training — but nearly all of them require a set of general-education and science prerequisites completed before (or sometimes alongside) the nursing courses. Knowing that full checklist up front is how you avoid the most common delay: discovering a missing prerequisite when you’re ready to apply.
This guide lays out the complete prerequisite checklist for LPN-to-RN bridge programs, explains what your LPN background may already cover, and shows how to complete the rest without leaving your job. PrereqCourses.com delivers these prerequisites online through Upper Iowa University, a regionally accredited institution. For background on the profession, see the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN).
Before the checklist, one clarification that affects which prerequisites you’ll need. “LPN-to-RN” isn’t a single program — it’s a family of paths, and the prerequisite load grows with the degree level:
Both lead to RN licensure; the difference is degree level, time, and cost. If you’re unsure which fits, see our dedicated guide, LPN-to-RN vs. LPN-to-BSN: Which Prerequisite Path Is Right for You?. The checklist below covers the common core; a BSN bridge usually adds a few more general-education courses.
Here’s the core set most LPN-to-RN bridge programs require. Exact requirements vary, but this is the reliable planning list:
| Prerequisite | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Anatomy & Physiology I and II | Science | The most heavily weighted requirement, usually with a lab. Required by virtually all bridges. |
| Microbiology | Science | Commonly required, often with a lab. |
| English Composition | Gen ed | At least one college writing course. |
| Statistics or College Algebra | Gen ed | Statistics is increasingly the required math; some accept either. |
| Developmental / General Psychology | Gen ed | Lifespan/developmental psychology is common; general psychology also required by many. |
| Additional gen ed (BSN bridges) | Gen ed | Sociology, chemistry, humanities — more likely on a BSN path. |
As a real-world example, Louisiana State University Eunice’s LPN-to-RN path requires 24 credit hours of prerequisites including English composition, college algebra, human anatomy, human physiology, microbiology, and developmental psychology. Most courses must be passed with a grade of C or higher. Always confirm your specific program’s list and grade minimums.
Here’s where being an LPN works in your favor. Bridge programs are designed to recognize your prior training, and some will credit part of your LPN coursework toward prerequisites or the nursing core:
The practical step is a transcript evaluation: have your target program assess your LPN transcript so you know exactly which checklist items you still need versus which are already covered.
The defining reality for an LPN is that you’re already working — often full-time, often depending on that income. That makes the format of your prerequisites the single most important factor:
Browse the prerequisite course options to complete the science and general-education requirements on your checklist. For the science courses specifically, see completing LPN-to-RN science prerequisites online while working.
What prerequisites do LPN-to-RN bridge programs require?
Most commonly Anatomy & Physiology I and II, microbiology, English composition, statistics or college algebra, and developmental or general psychology. BSN bridges often add sociology, chemistry, or other general education. Confirm with your program.
Does my LPN coursework count toward prerequisites?
Sometimes. Many bridge programs award advanced standing for your LPN training and may credit certain prerequisites. A transcript evaluation by your target program tells you exactly what’s covered.
What grade do I need in prerequisites?
Usually a C (70%) or higher, though some programs and some courses require a B. Science prerequisites tend to be weighted most heavily.
Can I complete LPN-to-RN prerequisites online while working?
Yes — and it’s the main advantage for working LPNs. Self-paced online courses from a regionally accredited institution let you keep your LPN income while you prepare. Confirm acceptance with your program.
How long do the prerequisites take?
It depends on how many you still need and your pace. Programs often cite 6–12 months for prerequisites if not already complete; self-paced formats let you go faster or slower around work.
Do LPN-to-RN prerequisites expire?
It varies by program — some apply a recency window to sciences, others (like Ohio State’s LPN-to-BSN) place no time limit on prerequisites. Always verify your specific program’s policy.
An LPN-to-RN bridge credits the training you already have, but nearly all bridges require a prerequisite checklist first: anatomy and physiology, microbiology, English, statistics, and psychology, with a BSN path adding a few more. The smartest move is to confirm which bridge you’re taking, get your LPN transcript evaluated to see what’s covered, and complete the rest online and self-paced so you never have to give up your LPN wage while you prepare. Start with the sciences, mind the grade minimums, and you’ll reach your bridge application ready rather than waiting on a missing course.
Ready to build your checklist? Explore the online prerequisite courses through HLC-accredited Upper Iowa University, and confirm your program’s exact requirements before enrolling.
Plan your bridge efficiently:
LPN-to-RN bridge prerequisite requirements, grade minimums, credit-for-prior-learning, recency windows, and online-course acceptance vary by program and change over time. Program details cited here were drawn from published materials and should be re-verified before reliance. This guide is general information only and is not a guarantee of credit transfer or admission. Always confirm requirements directly with the bridge program you intend to attend.
