[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Paramedics are first responders who help patients in the field and then transport them to emergency rooms or other healthcare settings.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Paramedics play a critical role in the healthcare system, but it is relatively easy for paramedics to change careers, building on their knowledge and expertise to become [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/registered-nursing/”]registered nurses (RN)[/hen-ui-link], which can also increase income potential.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A paramedic-to-RN [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/nursing-bridge-programs/”]bridge program[/hen-ui-link] allows you to earn an [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/adn/”]associate degree in nursing (ADN)[/hen-ui-link] in 1-2 years. You can qualify for more job opportunities and take on greater clinical responsibilities by becoming an RN.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]We’ve identified the best paramedic-to-RN bridge programs in the country. Explore common admission requirements for training, salary, and career outlooks after graduation.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-flex gap=”xl” align=”left” direction=”column”] [hen-ui-flex gap=”xs” align=”left” direction=”column”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Popular Online RN-to-BSN Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ color=”subtext”]Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-flex] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”belowTheFold” /] [/hen-ui-flex] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]The Best Paramedic-to-RN Bridge Programs in 2025[/hen-ui-heading] 
[hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ class=”py-4 my-0 text-center border-b md:pb-8 md:border-none”]Related LPN Career Resources:[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”3-col” ids=”33965,70819,66741″][/hen-ui-article-row]
We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College
- Tifton, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School
ABAC’s ASN-LPRN program is an accelerated one-year bridge track for paramedics, LPNs, and respiratory therapists looking to earn RN licensure.
The 71-credit-hour curriculum includes three semesters of nursing courses, skills labs, clinical placements, and preceptorships. Classes are offered one day a week, and the format is tailored to working professionals.
This is a feeder program to the school's online RN-to-BSN program for those seeking a bachelor's degree in nursing.
We like ABAC because 100% of the program's graduates find employment. Most of them receive offers before graduation.
This program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
Highlights
- ASN-LPRN program is one day per week
- 100% NCLEX pass rate for Fall 2023 graduates
- 100% employment rate
Considerations
- Nursing courses from other institutions do not transfer to this program
- Physical education (PE) course required
45%
Online Enrollment
$2,563
Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State
69%
Retention Rate
$9,469
Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
- Acceptance Rate
- 77%
- Students Enrolled
- 3,768
- Institution Type
- Public
Albany State University
- Albany, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School
ASU’s healthcare-professional-to-RN bridge program is a track option designed for students who are currently working as paramedics and LPNs and want to become RNs. After completing the ASN program, you can sit for the NCLEX-RN.
This accelerated 60-credit bridge program offers courses predominantly on campus, including classroom lectures, skills labs, and clinical rotations at local healthcare facilities. Online or hybrid classes are possible, but they are not guaranteed.
The program consists of core nursing courses in the first two semesters. At that time, you can apply to the nursing program, which requires four more semesters of courses including fundamentals of nursing, pharmacology, adult health, nursing care of women and children, psychiatric nursing, and a comprehensive capstone review course.
We like ASU because this program caters to working professionals. Classroom lectures, clinical placements, and online courses occur one day a week, which offers flexibility to students who are balancing school with a career.
This program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
Highlights
- In-person program at the Albany and Cordele campuses in Georgia
- Segues into ASU’s fully online RN-to-BSN program
- Recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as an HBCU
Considerations
- New cohorts accepted every five semesters and can start in the spring, summer, or fall
- Must have valid paramedic certification and at least one year of work experience
- Must be accepted or enrolled at ASU before applying to the university's nursing school
78%
Online Enrollment
$ 4,064
Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State
78%
Retention Rate
$14,786
Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
- Acceptance Rate
- 73%
- Students Enrolled
- 6,544
- Institution Type
- Public
Arkansas Tech University
- Russellville, AR
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School
ATU’s AAS-RN program is designed for paramedics and LPNs looking to transition into an RN career. Half of the program's nursing theory courses are in-person, and half are online, offering flexibility to working professionals. This two-year program also includes hands-on skills labs and clinical rotations.
Paramedics must complete 37 credits of platform courses and a six-credit course for paramedics transitioning to nursing before they can be accepted into the program's technical phase. After acceptance, they can complete the remaining 30 credits of technical coursework, which includes an introduction to professional nursing, pharmacology, and nutrition.
We like ATU because tuition for both in-state and out-of-state students is less expensive than the national average. Students who live in bordering states also receive in-state tuition from ATU.
This program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing.
Highlights
- 100% NCLEX-RN first-time pass rate
- In-state tuition offered to students in Arkansas and bordering states
- Program segues into the school’s BSN program
Considerations
- Paramedics must complete "transition to RN" course to apply to the nursing program
- Current state certification as a paramedic and national registration as an EMT required
- 600 hours of work as a paramedic and graduation from an approved paramedic program within 12 months of applying required, or a minimum of 1,000 hours of work within 12 months of applying
59%
Online Enrollment
$ 6,174
Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State
74%
Retention Rate
$12,349
Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
- Acceptance Rate
- 96%
- Students Enrolled
- 8,746
- Institution Type
- Public
Bishop State Community College
- Mobile, AL
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School
BSCCs Career Mobility Track I program provides paramedics and LPNs with a 55-credit, fast-paced, full-time pathway to becoming RNs. Graduates receive an AAS degree in nursing and are qualified to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.
Applicant selection is based on a point system. Applicants earn points for factors such as ACT score (up to 36 points), EMT certification (2 points), and enrollment in one semester at BSCC (1 point).
This program balances classroom lectures and clinical placements throughout the curriculum, and skills labs in the first two semesters.
We like BSCC because it takes three semesters to complete. The first semester covers broad nursing concepts, while the second and third semesters include courses in advanced nursing concepts, microbiology, and advanced evidence-based clinical reasoning.
Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Alabama Board of Nursing accredited this program.
Highlights
- No work history is required for this program
- Student selection is based on a point system
- Recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as an HBCU
Considerations
- Proof of active, unencumbered paramedic licensure is required
- Program starts in the fall semester
- Must be accepted or currently enrolled as a BSCC student prior to applying to the nursing program
46%
Online Enrollment
$3,810
Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State
61%
Retention Rate
$7,620
Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 3,568
- Institution Type
- Public
Holmes Community College
- Goodman, MS
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School
HCC’s associate degree nursing accelerated program has two pathways for licensed and certified paramedics and LPNs looking to advance their careers in healthcare.
We like HCC because it offers paramedics a choice between two 66-credit curriculums. Both tracks are offered at the school's Grenada and Ridgeland campuses located in Mississippi.
The first option offers a 12-month curriculum that starts in the summer with 12-credit nursing transition courses before entering the general program in August with a May completion goal.
The second option is a four-semester path of study with nursing theory courses in the fall and spring followed by the general program in August of the second year. This slower-paced route ends with a final spring semester in the second year.
This program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning of Mississippi.
Highlights
- NCLEX first-time pass rate is 89%
- Graduates have a 96% job placement rate
- Students receive six credits toward graduation for previous paramedic training
Considerations
- At least one year of experience working as a paramedic required
- Proof of active unencumbered paramedic license or certification required
58%
Online Enrollment
$2,700
Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State
56%
Retention Rate
$5,400
Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 4,959
- Institution Type
- Public
[hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″]Admission Requirements[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Determining your eligibility for a paramedic-to-RN program requires a thorough review of admission requirements, which can include relevant work experience, professional certifications, and transfer credit criteria.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-separator /][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″]Specializations[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]What kind of work speaks to you as a paramedic? You can often continue to explore your preferred area of work as an RN, [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/nursing-specialties-guide/”]specializing in areas[/hen-ui-link], such as [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/critical-care-nurse/”]critical care[/hen-ui-link], neonatal, [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/trauma-nurse/”]trauma nursing[/hen-ui-link], and obstetrics.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-separator /][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″]Program Curriculum[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The general coursework in a paramedic-to-RN program covers anatomy and physiology, microbiology, and fundamental nursing concepts. Electives and specialties vary by program, making this a key consideration for all prospective enrollees.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-separator /][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″]Clinical Experience[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Because paramedics have training in emergency medical response, paramedic-to-RN bridge programs may require fewer clinical hours than traditional ADN programs. Many programs also help students find clinical placements.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-separator /][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″]Accreditation[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Prioritize [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/what-is-accreditation/”]accredited paramedic-to-RN bridge programs[/hen-ui-link], as accreditation plays a crucial role in many aspects of your career. For example, sitting [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/nclex/guide/”]for the NCLEX[/hen-ui-link] requires each candidate to have graduated from an accredited program, and most employers only hire graduates of programs with proper accreditation.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-separator /][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″]Program Length[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Most paramedic-to-RN bridge programs take 12-18 months to complete. Programs that award a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/bsn/”]bachelor of science in nursing (BSN)[/hen-ui-link] can take longer, usually around 2-3 years. Completing a longer paramedic-to-RN online program may cost more than accelerated options.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-separator /][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″]School Graduation Rate[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nursing schools should offer a quality education that prepares you for your career goals. How can you do a quality check? Review the graduation rate to see how many students graduate on time.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-separator /][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″]Online Learning Format and Requirements[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]If you enroll in a paramedic-to-RN bridge program online, you may study on your own schedule without any live courses. You may interact with fellow students and instructors through synchronous courses, which meet in real time to mirror the in-person experience. Review the delivery format and technology requirements to find a good fit.[/hen-ui-text]
[hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Why Is Paramedic-to-RN Program Accreditation Important?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Accreditation ensures a quality education and verifies a graduate’s preparedness for nursing careers. The accreditation process benefits nursing as a whole and ensures students can sit for the NCLEX-RN. Upholding industry standards also provides better nursing care outcomes.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The nursing programs in our ranking hold accreditation from the[hen-ui-link href=”https://www.acenursing.org/” target=”_blank”] Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing[/hen-ui-link] or the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.aacnnursing.org/CCNE” target=”_blank”]Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Here’s why nursing school accreditation matters for nurses:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Accredited programs follow the best practices for educating nurses.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students may not be able to transfer credits from unaccredited programs.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]State boards of nursing only license candidates from accredited programs.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Employers may only hire graduates from accredited programs.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]How Paramedic-to-RN Programs Work[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Paramedic-to-RN bridge programs build on your prior medical training and clinical skills to prepare you for licensure as an RN. You complete courses in health assessment, evidence-based practice, and patient care, while also gaining hands-on skills through clinical rotations and labs.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]If you choose to attend a paramedic-to-RN bridge program online, you may take classes virtually while meeting clinical requirements in person, often in your local area. Online programs may offer asynchronous, synchronous, or hybrid delivery formats, which provide flexibility for paramedics who plan to work while earning a nursing degree.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Find out more information about [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/clinical-experience-for-online-nursing-students/”]clinical experiences[/hen-ui-link] as an online nursing student and the differences between [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/in-person-vs-online-nursing-programs/”]in-person and online nursing programs[/hen-ui-link] with our helpful guides.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Applying to a Paramedic-to-RN Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Before paramedics can take nursing classes, they need to apply to paramedic-to-RN programs. That means meeting the admission requirements.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Most paramedic-to-RN bridge programs require:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A valid paramedic certification or licensure[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A high school diploma or the equivalent[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]1-2 years of experience working as a paramedic[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Prerequisite courses in anatomy, physiology, biology, and chemistry[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You may need to submit a resume, letters of recommendation, and essays during the admission process. Many programs also require a background check and updated immunizations.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Paying for Paramedic-to-RN Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Becoming an RN can boost your earning potential, but paying for a paramedic-to-RN bridge program poses a barrier for many students.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]It’s important to understand your [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/financial-aid/”]financial aid[/hen-ui-link] options to help [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/financial-aid/paying-for-your-nursing-degree/”]pay for your nursing degree[/hen-ui-link]. Start by completing the [hen-ui-link href=”https://studentaid.gov/” target=”_blank”]Free Application for Federal Student Aid[/hen-ui-link] (FAFSA), which determines your eligibility for federal, state, and private funding sources.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Next, research [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/financial-aid/nursing-scholarships/”]grants and scholarships for nursing students[/hen-ui-link]. Because they do not require repayment, grants and scholarships are ideal sources of funding.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]As a prospective healthcare worker, you can also explore details on [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/student-loan-forgiveness-for-nurses/”]student loan forgiveness programs[/hen-ui-link] and employer [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/financial-aid/nursing-jobs-to-pay-off-student-loans/”]tuition reimbursement[/hen-ui-link], which can help you cover costs.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Can You Do After a Paramedic-to-RN Program?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]After graduating from a paramedic-to-RN program, you can take the NCLEX-RN and apply for RN licensure. If you earned an ADN, you can also consider an RN-to-BSN program to enhance your clinical knowledge and move into specialized roles.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The scope of practice for [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/rn-vs-paramedic/”]RNs and paramedics[/hen-ui-link] varies. For example, RNs can work in many more clinical settings, including hospitals and medical offices.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Like RNs, paramedics can insert IVs, give medications, and provide life-saving interventions, but paramedics can intubate patients in emergencies while RNs cannot. Nurses help determine and deliver patient care in all settings and situations, including emergencies and non-emergencies.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Many RNs work in hospitals, while others find employment in ambulatory healthcare services, nursing and rehab facilities, medical practices, and government agencies.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-center text-primary-900″]Median Annual Pay[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-center”][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]EMTs and Paramedics[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-center”]$46,350 annually $22.28 hourly[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-center”][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Registered Nurses[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-center”]$93,600 annually $45.00 hourly[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [/hen-ui-grid] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-sm text-right”]Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics[/hen-ui-text]
[hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Frequently Asked Questions[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How long does it take a paramedic to become an RN?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Paramedics can become RNs in as little as 1-2 years with a paramedic-to-RN bridge program. These programs incorporate nursing courses and clinical rotations to prepare graduates for RN licensure and higher earning potential.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is paramedic-to-RN worth it?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Paramedics can increase their earning potential by becoming RNs. EMTs and paramedics reported a median annual salary of $46,350 as of April 2024, according to BLS data, while RNs earned $93,600.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What is the path from paramedic to nurse?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Paramedics can enroll in bridge programs to become registered nurses. These programs, which take 1-2 years, build on the expertise of paramedics to meet the licensure requirements for RN jobs.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Can a paramedic pass the NCLEX?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Paramedics who want to take the NCLEX need to attend an accredited nursing program. Paramedic-to-RN bridge programs offer an accelerated path to RN careers, and these programs prepare graduates to take the NCLEX-RN.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ class=”py-4 my-0 text-center border-b md:pb-8 md:border-none”]Related LPN Career Resources:[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”3-col” ids=”33965,70819,66741″][/hen-ui-article-row]