Explore Leading LPN to RN Programs Near Roanoke, Virginia
- 2025 Leading LPN to RN Programs Near Roanoke, Virginia
- The Growing Need for RNs in the Roanoke Valley
- Curriculum and Clinical Experience
- Admission Requirements
- Flexible Scheduling and Support Services
- Cost and Financial Aid Options
- Real-World Experience Through Local Clinicals
- Career Advancement and Local Demand
- Moving Forward with Confidence
- Sources
- Latest Articles & Guides
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) in Roanoke, Virginia, have access to a variety of educational pathways that allow them to advance their careers by becoming Registered Nurses (RNs). With the demand for skilled RNs continuing to rise, particularly in Appalachian and rural regions of Virginia, LPN to RN bridge programs offer a fast, flexible, and cost-effective route to licensure. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of registered nurses is expected to grow 6% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. These programs build on existing nursing knowledge and experience, making them ideal for working professionals who are ready to expand their scope of practice, increase their earning potential, and meet the evolving needs of healthcare in the Roanoke region.
Roanoke’s location as a regional medical hub serving communities from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the New River Valley makes it a strategic place to pursue nursing education. Local healthcare systems, community colleges, and support organizations have invested in workforce development pipelines to address the region's healthcare needs. For LPNs already working in hospitals, clinics, or long-term care settings, these bridge programs provide a natural next step toward RN licensure while staying rooted in the community.
2025 Leading LPN to RN Programs Near Roanoke, Virginia
Looking for the best LPN to RN programs near Roanoke, Virginia in 2025? RegisteredNursing.org has done the research to help you find top-ranked programs that fit your needs. Our rankings highlight schools that offer quality education, strong support for students, and good paths to becoming a registered nurse. Whether you're starting your nursing journey or looking to advance your career, these programs can set you on the right track. Check out our list to see which schools made the cut and why they stand out. For more details on how we rank these programs, visit https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/.
Patrick & Henry Community College
Martinsville, VA - Public 2-Year - patrickhenry.edu
Associate - LPN to ADN Advanced Placement
Campus Based - Visit Website
Patrick & Henry Community College's LPN to ADN Advanced Placement program stands out for its commitment to transforming licensed practical nurses into registered nurses through a rigorous, state-approved curriculum. Located in Martinsville, VA, this ACEN-accredited program is tailored for LPNs aiming for career advancement, offering a direct path to an associate degree in nursing. With a focus on NCLEX-RN exam readiness, the program emphasizes hands-on learning and theoretical knowledge. Admission requires a current LPN license, completion of prerequisites, and passing pre-admission testing, ensuring candidates are well-prepared for the challenges ahead. This program is ideal for those seeking a swift transition to RN roles without the need for entrance exams like the ACT or SAT.
- Full state nursing board approval
- ACEN accredited program
- Advanced placement for LPNs
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- Comprehensive pre-admission testing
- Requires current LPN license
- Located in Martinsville, VA
Virginia Western Community College
Roanoke, VA - Public 2-Year - virginiawestern.edu
Associate - LPN to Nursing (AAS) Bridge Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
Virginia Western Community College's LPN to Nursing (AAS) Bridge Program is tailored for LPNs aiming to elevate their nursing career to the RN level. This program stands out for its accelerated format, enabling students to earn their Associate of Applied Science in Nursing in just two and a half semesters. It uniquely acknowledges the clinical experience of LPNs, offering a fast-tracked educational path that bridges the gap between practical and registered nursing. Highlights include advanced placement options, summer bridge courses, and the opportunity for qualified students to enter at the sophomore level, making it an efficient choice for career advancement.
- Advanced Placement for LPNs
- Complete AAS in 2.5 semesters
- Bridges LPN to RN knowledge
- Summer bridge courses available
- Sophomore level entry possible
New River Community College
Dublin, VA - Public 2-Year - nr.edu
Associate - LPN-to-Associate Degree Nursing Advanced Placement
Campus Based - Visit Website
New River Community College offers an LPN-to-Associate Degree Nursing Advanced Placement program, tailored for Licensed Practical Nurses aiming to advance their careers. This campus-based program integrates a concept-based curriculum, emphasizing NCLEX-RN preparation to ensure graduates are well-equipped for the demands of modern healthcare settings. With a focus on leveraging prior nursing experience, it provides a fast-track to becoming a registered nurse without the need for entrance exams. Recognized for its military-friendly approach, the program stands out for its advanced placement option and commitment to preparing students for diverse healthcare environments.
- LPN to RN pathway
- Concept-based curriculum
- NCLEX-RN preparation
- Advanced placement option
- Campus-based program
Mountain Gateway Community College
Clifton Forge, VA - Public 2-Year - mgcc.edu
Associate - LPN to RN Transition Pathway
Campus Based - Visit Website
Mountain Gateway Community College's LPN to RN Transition Pathway is designed for licensed practical nurses aiming to elevate their careers to registered nursing. This campus-based program acknowledges the practical experience of LPNs by awarding 12 credits for prior learning, enabling a faster transition. Students engage in a comprehensive curriculum spread over three semesters, culminating in an Associate of Applied Science degree in Nursing. Approved by the Virginia Board of Nursing, graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam, ensuring a smooth entry into diverse nursing roles across healthcare settings.
- LPN to RN pathway
- 12 credits prior learning
- NCLEX-RN eligibility
- Three nursing semesters
- Virginia Board of Nursing approved
The Growing Need for RNs in the Roanoke Valley
Roanoke serves as the healthcare hub of southwestern Virginia, with major employers including Carilion Clinic, LewisGale Medical Center, and the Salem VA Medical Center. The region’s aging population and increased access to healthcare services have created a sustained demand for qualified nurses, according to the Virginia Employment Commission. Registered nursing ranks among the top five occupations for growth in the region.
LPN to RN programs are designed to help local nurses meet this need while staying embedded in their communities. Most programs accommodate working schedules and include clinical placements in regional facilities, enabling students to gain experience without having to relocate.
Curriculum and Clinical Experience
LPN to RN bridge programs typically take 12 to 18 months to complete, depending on prior credits and whether the student attends full-time or part-time. These programs focus on deepening knowledge in areas such as:
- Medical-surgical nursing
- Pharmacology and pathophysiology
- Maternal and pediatric care
- Leadership and care coordination
- Advanced health assessments
Clinical rotations provide real-world exposure in diverse settings, such as emergency departments, surgical units, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers. In Roanoke, clinical partnerships with Carilion Clinic and the VA Medical Center allow students to work alongside experienced RNs and interdisciplinary teams, gaining insight into best practices and local healthcare challenges.
Many programs incorporate simulation-based training with high-fidelity mannequins and mock clinical environments. These labs allow students to practice critical thinking and clinical decision-making in a risk-free environment before treating patients.
Admission Requirements
LPN-to-RN programs have selective admissions criteria to ensure students are academically and clinically prepared. While specific requirements vary, most nursing programs in the Roanoke area require the following:
- Valid and unencumbered LPN license
- Minimum GPA (typically 2.5 or higher)
- Completion of general education prerequisites (e.g., English, psychology, anatomy & physiology)
- Passing score on the TEAS or HESI entrance exam
- Criminal background check and immunizations
Some programs also require letters of recommendation, a resume, or a personal statement. Attending an information session or speaking directly with a program advisor can help applicants clarify the process and strengthen their materials.
Flexible Scheduling and Support Services
Many Roanoke-area LPN-to-RN students continue working while attending school. To meet the needs of working professionals, schools offer part-time tracks, evening and weekend classes, and hybrid formats that combine online lectures with on-campus labs and clinicals. This structure makes it possible for students to continue earning income and fulfilling family obligations while advancing their careers.
In addition to flexible scheduling, many programs provide academic support services, including:
- Tutoring and test prep workshops
- Peer mentoring and study groups
- Dedicated nursing advisors and career counselors
- Access to simulation labs and NCLEX prep materials
These resources help students stay on track academically while managing external responsibilities.
Cost and Financial Aid Options
LPN to RN programs in Virginia are generally affordable, particularly at public community colleges. Below is a general overview of estimated costs for LPN to RN bridge programs near Roanoke:
| Program Type | Estimated Tuition (In-State) | Additional Costs (Books, Fees, Supplies) |
| Community College (Full Program) | $6,000 – $8,000 | $1,200 – $2,000 |
| Hybrid/Online Bridge Program | $7,500 – $10,000 | $1,500 – $2,500 |
Note: Figures are estimates. Actual tuition varies by institution and residency status.
To reduce out-of-pocket costs, students may apply for:
- Federal Pell Grants and student loans through FAFSA
- Virginia Community College System (VCCS) scholarships
- Scholarships from local healthcare employers
- Virginia Nurses Foundation and HCA Healthcare awards
- Workforce development grants through WIOA
Military-affiliated students may also access VA education benefits or GI Bill funding for approved programs.
Real-World Experience Through Local Clinicals
One of the key benefits of attending a program near Roanoke is access to a wide range of clinical opportunities in local facilities. Students can gain hands-on experience in settings that include:
- Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital
- LewisGale Medical Center
- Salem VA Medical Center
- Rural health clinics and skilled nursing facilities across the Blue Ridge region
These placements expose students to urban and rural healthcare environments and give insight into population health challenges specific to southwestern Virginia.
Graduates often transition directly into full-time roles at the same institutions where they trained, shortening the job search and improving retention in local systems.
Career Advancement and Local Demand
Earning an RN license unlocks new responsibilities, higher salaries, and broader clinical roles. In the Roanoke area, demand remains high in:
- Acute care (e.g., med-surg, telemetry, ICU)
- Outpatient surgery and procedural units
- Home health and hospice care
- Mental health and substance use treatment
Carilion Clinic and LewisGale Health System offer new graduate nurse residencies, mentorship programs, and transition-to-practice tracks designed explicitly for LPN to RN graduates.
In the long term, many RNs pursue RN to BSN completion programs. Some choose to specialize further through certifications in areas like gerontology, critical care, or case management.
Moving Forward with Confidence
LPN-to-RN programs near Roanoke, Virginia, provide a transformative path for nurses ready to take the next step in their careers. By building on existing clinical knowledge, these bridge programs deliver the tools and credentials needed to thrive in an evolving healthcare landscape. With access to regional hospital partnerships, flexible learning formats, and meaningful financial support, aspiring RNs in the Roanoke Valley are well-positioned to succeed.
Prospective students are encouraged to explore application timelines, prepare prerequisite coursework, and connect with advisors at nursing schools in Virginia to chart a personalized path forward.
Sources
- Virginia Employment Commission – Occupational Projections
- LewisGale Regional Health System
- Virginia Board of Nursing
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Registered Nurses
- Virginia Nurses Foundation
- Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital
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