Program Overview
Where will you go with your BSN?
Kent State's LPN & Allied Health to BSN is a flexible Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) bridge program designed to meet the unique demands of Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), Physical Therapy Assistants, Occupational Therapy Assistants, Respiratory Therapists, Paramedics, Field/Combat Medics and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs).
Recognizing that many allied health professionals have the same desire as LPNs for a pathway to become BSN-prepared Registered Nurses (RNs), the LPN to BSN program was recently revised and expanded, making this only one of only a handful of BSN bridge programs in the nation for paramedics, medics, and EMTs, and perhaps the only BSN bridge program that admits other allied health professionals.
Built on the foundation of our Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, the LPN & Allied Health to BSN is designed to prepare practitioners for professional nursing, help them understand their role in society and prepare them for graduate study. The program emphasizes professional knowledge, skills, and compassionate nursing practices.
Learning through a combination of classroom, laboratory, and supervised clinical setting instruction, Kent State nursing students graduate with a solid foundation of nursing knowledge.
Why Kent State? We offer you:
- A program created with health professionals in mind. We developed a program that can fit within the lifestyle and circumstances of most LPNs and Allied Health professionals.
- Individualized advising. Our experienced professional advisors will assist you with program planning and provide guidance throughout the program.
- Hands-on learning. Develop top-notch nursing skills and be immersed in realistic simulated patient care experiences in our state-of-the-art laboratories. A wide range of clinical experiences at facilities throughout Northeast Ohio will prepare you to care for pediatric, parent/newborn, adult, psychiatric, and seriously ill patients and to promote healthy living habits within the community.
- High NCLEX-RN pass rates. About 95% of our 400+ graduates each year go on to pass the NCLEX-RN, a rate higher than the state and national averages.
- Excellent graduate job placement. Be in demand! In a recent survey, almost 100% of our BSN graduates were employed within 6 months of graduation.
Proudly CCNE Accredited
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at Kent State is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education*. Kent State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Kent State: An NLN Center of Excellence
Kent State University is a three-time designated Center of Excellence in Nursing Education by the National League for Nursing (2013-2017, 2017-2022, 2022-2026). We are recognized in the "Advancing the Science of Nursing Education" category for our dedication to innovative and evidence-based nursing education.
BSN Program Objectives
- Meet educational eligibility requirements to take the registered nurse licensing examination (National Certification and Licensure Exam).
- Acquire competencies based on professional standards to assume the role of the professional nurse and for career advancement, including graduate studies.
- Apply the nursing process in providing evidence-based, culturally sensitive care to promote health and adaptation of individuals, families, groups and communities.
* The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master’s degree program in nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice program, and post-graduate APRN certificate program at Kent State University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street, NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791.