Most Affordable Paramedic to RN Online Bridge Programs for 2025
Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist
Transitioning from a paramedic to a registered nurse (RN) is a smart move for healthcare professionals looking to expand their skills, responsibilities, and earning potential. Paramedic to RN online bridge programs offer a convenient and cost-effective path to achieve this goal without putting careers on hold. These programs build on existing emergency medical experience, allowing paramedics to fast-track their nursing education and prepare for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam.
In this guide, we will explore the most affordable online bridge programs available, what they offer, and how to choose the right one for your needs—helping you take the next step in your healthcare career without breaking the bank.
What are the benefits of getting an affordable paramedic to RN online bridge program?
- Graduates can become Registered Nurses (RNs), qualifying for roles in emergency rooms, critical care units, and outpatient clinics—positions that offer more responsibility and stability than paramedic roles.
- The median annual salary for RNs in the U.S. is around $93,600, significantly higher than the median for paramedics, which is approximately $58,410.
- Online bridge programs let working paramedics study on their own schedule while maintaining employment, making it easier to transition careers without a break in income.
What can I expect from an affordable paramedic to RN online bridge program?
A Paramedic to RN online bridge program is a specialized educational pathway that allows certified paramedics to become registered nurses (RNs) by building on their existing clinical experience. These programs are designed to be flexible, affordable, and efficient, often delivered in a hybrid format that combines online coursework with required in-person clinical training. Students typically study subjects such as anatomy, pharmacology, patient care, and nursing ethics, preparing them to take the NCLEX-RN licensing exam.
Compared to starting an RN program from scratch, bridge programs save time and money by awarding credit for prior paramedic training. Graduates can pursue higher-paying roles in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and trauma centers. The online delivery model benefits working professionals by offering greater scheduling freedom and accessibility, especially for those in rural or underserved areas. Ultimately, this pathway supports upward career mobility and fills a growing need for skilled nursing professionals in the U.S. healthcare system.
Where can I work with an affordable paramedic to RN online bridge program?
Graduates of paramedic to RN bridge programs are well-equipped to work in a variety of healthcare settings due to their dual training in emergency care and nursing. Many find employment in hospitals, especially in high-demand departments like emergency rooms (ERs), intensive care units (ICUs), and trauma centers. These environments benefit from their ability to respond quickly and make critical decisions under pressure. RNs with a paramedic background are also valued in surgical recovery units, telemetry, and cardiac care settings, where real-time decision-making and patient monitoring are essential.
Beyond hospitals, these professionals can work in outpatient clinics, long-term care facilities, home healthcare services, and rehabilitation centers. Some choose to work in more specialized roles such as flight nursing, correctional facility nursing, or public health nursing. Industries and organizations that commonly hire RNs with this background include:
- Local and state healthcare agencies
- Private and nonprofit hospitals
- Urgent care centers and walk-in clinics
- Travel nursing agencies
- Military and Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare systems
How much can I make with an affordable paramedic to RN online bridge program?
Graduates of paramedic to RN bridge programs can expect a significant increase in earning potential upon becoming registered nurses. As of 2024, the median annual salary for RNs in the U.S. is approximately $93,600, with the top 10% exceeding $135,320. In contrast, paramedics typically earn a median annual salary of around $58,410, highlighting the financial benefits of transitioning to an RN role.
Entry-level RNs, including recent bridge program graduates, earn an average of $71,414 annually, with most salaries ranging between $64,754 and $80,493 . Earnings can vary based on factors such as geographic location, healthcare setting, and specialization. For instance, RNs working in California, Hawaii, and Oregon often receive higher salaries due to increased demand and cost of living. Additionally, pursuing advanced roles like nurse practitioner or nurse anesthetist can lead to even greater income potential, with some positions offering salaries exceeding $120,000 annually.
Table of Contents
- List of the Most Affordable Paramedic to RN Online Bridge Programs for 2025
- How long does it take to complete an affordable paramedic to RN online bridge program?
- How does an affordable paramedic to RN online bridge program compare to an on-campus program?
- What is the average cost of an affordable paramedic to RN online bridge program?
- What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an affordable paramedic to RN online bridge program?
- What are the prerequisites for enrolling in the affordable paramedic to RN online bridge program?
- What courses are typically in an affordable paramedic to RN online bridge program?
- What types of specializations are available in affordable paramedic to RN online bridge programs?
- What student support services do these online bridge programs offer?
- Are these online bridge programs accredited and state-approved?
- How do you choose the best affordable paramedic to RN online bridge program?
- What career paths are available for graduates of affordable paramedic to RN online bridge programs?
- What is the job market like for graduates with an affordable paramedic to RN online bridge program?
- What advanced educational opportunities can further boost my nursing career?
- Other Things You Should Know About Affordable Paramedic to RN Online Bridge Programs
List of the Most Affordable Paramedic to RN Online Bridge Programs for 2025
How do we rank schools?
We are aware that committing to online paramedic to RN programs is a big decision. You have to give the financial commitment serious thought. Our team of specialists at Research.com has ranked paramedic to RN bridge programs to empower you with insights derived from data.
This ranking is built upon a comprehensive and transparent methodology. We leverage data from trusted sources like the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) database, Peterson's databases including their Distance Learning Licensed Data Set, and the College Scorecard database from the National Center for Education Statistics. This multifaceted approach ensures we capture a holistic view of each program, allowing you to compare and contrast based on key factors relevant to your needs.
1. Mesa Community College (Arizona)
Mesa Community College, part of the Maricopa Community Colleges, offers an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing with a bridge option for paramedics. While the specific start year for the online paramedic bridge program isn't explicitly stated, their AAS Nursing program lists Fall 2025 as a start option. This program targets certified paramedics seeking to become Registered Nurses (RNs) by building upon their existing medical knowledge. The program is generally delivered through a combination of online coursework and hands-on clinical training, preparing graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam.
- Program Length: 2 years
- Tracks/Concentrations: Paramedic to RN Bridge
- Cost per Credit: $97 per credit hour for in-state students
- Required Credits to Graduate: 62-72 credits
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN
2. Waukesha County Technical College
Waukesha County Technical College offers a paramedic bridge to associate degree in nursing pathway. This pathway is designed for actively licensed paramedics in Wisconsin, allowing them to leverage their prior education towards an ADN. The online component includes "Paramedic to ADN Theory 1" and "Paramedic to ADN Theory 2" courses, while the bridge clinical and skills components are offered in the summer. The program primarily targets Wisconsin-licensed paramedics, and while a specific start year for the online bridge isn't readily available, it integrates online theory with in-person clinicals.
- Program Length: 2 years
- Tracks/Concentrations: Paramedic to RN Bridge
- Cost per Credit: $159.50 per credit hour for online courses
- Required Credits to Graduate: 65 credit hours
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
3. Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College
Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College provides a one-year Bridge Program for health sciences backgrounds, including paramedics, leading to an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) Degree. This program, which typically involves nursing courses completed in three semesters (one calendar year), targets licensed practical nurses, registered paramedics, and registered respiratory therapists. While the exact start year for the online bridge program isn't specified, ABAC's nursing school offers flexible evening and hybrid online courses, indicating a blended delivery approach.
- Program Length: One-year bridge track
- Tracks/Concentrations: Bridge track for LPNs, paramedics, and respiratory therapists
- Cost per Credit: $199 per credit hour
- Required Credits to Graduate: 70 credit hours
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
4. Holmes Community College
Holmes Community College offers a Paramedic to RN Online Bridge - AAS degree pathway. This program, totaling 69 credits, emphasizes preparation for technical or semi-professional careers as Registered Nurses. It targets certified paramedics seeking an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing. The program is delivered with online coursework and incorporates required practicum experiences, building on prior learning with specific course requirements.
- Program Length: 12-month accelerated program
- Tracks/Concentrations: Paramedic to RN Bridge Program
- Cost per Credit: $76; additional online class fee of $10 per credit hour
- Required Credits to Graduate: 66 credit hours, with 6 hours credited for prior LPN/Paramedic training
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
5. Bishop State Community College
Bishop State Community College provides a Career Mobility Track I (LPN/Paramedic to RN) leading to an Associate in Applied Science Degree. This program is for students who have successfully completed a Paramedic Program and hold an unencumbered license. It targets licensed paramedics looking to advance to an RN role. The program combines online coursework with hands-on experience in labs and clinical environments, emphasizing critical thinking and compassionate care, with multiple start dates throughout the year.
- Program Length: 2 years
- Tracks/Concentrations: Career Mobility Track I for LPNs and paramedics
- Cost per Credit: $178 per credit hour
- Required Credits to Graduate: 55 credit hours
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
6. Hutchinson Community College
Hutchinson Community College offers an online bridge program for paramedics (and LPNs) to become Registered Nurses, leading to an Associate of Science degree in Nursing (ADN). This three-semester program, after prerequisites, targets paramedics aiming for RN licensure. It is delivered with online components for coursework and requires in-person clinicals, providing a distinctive course in role transition from student to professional nurse.
- Program Length: 3 semesters
- Tracks/Concentrations: Paramedic to RN Online Bridge
- Cost per Credit: $128 per credit hours
- Required Credits to Graduate: 69 credit hours
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
How long does it take to complete an affordable paramedic to RN online bridge program?
Affordable online paramedic to RN programs typically takes 12 to 24 months to complete. The exact length depends on the program structure, whether it's full-time or part-time, and if the student has already completed general education or prerequisite courses. Many programs offer accelerated formats for experienced paramedics, allowing them to fast-track their education by receiving credit for prior learning. Online coursework provides flexibility, while required clinical hours are arranged at approved local healthcare facilities.
Cost-effective programs often partner with community colleges or public universities, keeping tuition low while maintaining quality. These programs are designed to be accessible for working professionals, especially those balancing shifts as paramedics. Choosing a regionally accredited and state-approved program ensures that graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam and pursue licensure. If you’re planning the next step in your nursing career beyond the RN role, you might also explore the cheapest clinical nurse leader MSN programs online to compare timelines, costs, and leadership-focused curriculum.
Overall, students can expect a manageable timeline that transitions them efficiently into a higher-paying and more versatile nursing role.
How does an affordable paramedic to RN online bridge program compare to an on-campus program?
Affordable online paramedic to RN programs offer greater flexibility than an on-campus program, making it ideal for working paramedics. Online programs typically allow students to complete coursework on their own schedule, with clinical hours arranged locally. This can reduce travel time and allow learners to balance work and family commitments. Online programs also often come with lower tuition rates and fewer additional costs, such as commuting or housing, making them more affordable overall.
In contrast, on-campus programs provide more face-to-face interaction with instructors and peers, which can enhance learning for some students. They may also offer quicker access to campus resources like simulation labs and academic support. However, they usually require a more rigid schedule and greater time commitment, which may be challenging for those with full-time jobs. If you’re planning future advancement beyond the RN role, you might also explore the cheapest online MSN in care coordination to see how graduate-level options can expand your career in patient care management.
In terms of outcomes, both formats prepare students to take the NCLEX-RN exam and become licensed RNs—so the best choice depends on a student’s lifestyle, learning preference, and financial situation.
What is the average cost of an affordable paramedic to RN online bridge program?
The average cost of affordable online paramedic to RN programs in the U.S. range from approximately $5,000 to $10,000, depending on the institution, residency status, and program structure. For instance, Parkland College in Illinois offers a hybrid program for about $5,130 , while Utah Tech University estimates its total cost at around $7,149 . Similarly, Southern Union State Community College in Alabama lists its program at approximately $9,073.50, which includes tuition, fees, and course materials .
These programs are typically more affordable than traditional nursing pathways, especially when offered by public community colleges or state universities. However, costs can vary significantly based on factors such as in-state versus out-of-state tuition rates, additional fees, and whether the program is offered entirely online or in a hybrid format. It's important to note that while online coursework offers flexibility, most programs still require in-person clinical hours, which may incur additional expenses. Prospective students should also consider the availability of financial aid, scholarships, and payment plans to help offset costs.
Understanding the earning potential of different healthcare roles can help guide your career decisions. The chart below compares the median annual wages for paramedics and various nursing positions to highlight the financial benefits of advancing to an RN role.
What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an affordable paramedic to RN online bridge program?
Students enrolling in an affordable paramedic to RN online bridge program have several financial aid options to help manage costs. Similar to the financial aid for accelerated medical assistant programs, federal financial aid is the most common. This includes Pell Grants, Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, and Federal Work-Study opportunities. To access these, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Many community colleges and state schools that offer these bridge programs participate in federal aid programs, making this an accessible first step.
Beyond federal aid, students may qualify for state-based grants, scholarships, and tuition reimbursement from employers—especially if they already work in healthcare. Some schools also offer institutional scholarships specifically for nursing students or adult learners. Veterans may access GI Bill® benefits, while others might explore private nursing scholarships through organizations like the National Student Nurses’ Association (NSNA) or the Emergency Nurses Association (ENA). Payment plans offered directly through schools can also spread out tuition costs over time, providing greater flexibility for working paramedics.
What are the prerequisites for enrolling in the affordable paramedic to RN online bridge program?
In 2023, there were 327 accelerated baccalaureate programs available at nursing schools nationwide. It is important to note that these are among the degrees you can get online that pay well. Plus, the demand for these roles is consistently high.
Here are the common prerequisites for enrolling in an affordable paramedic to RN online bridge program, explained in bullet points:
- Valid Paramedic License/Certification: You must hold an active and unencumbered paramedic license. Most programs require that your license be issued by the state or the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT).
- Work Experience as a Paramedic: Many programs prefer or require at least 1–2 years of work experience. This ensures you have hands-on patient care knowledge to build upon in your nursing education.
- High School Diploma or GED: A high school diploma or equivalent is the minimum educational requirement for admission into most bridge programs.
- Completion of Prerequisite Courses: You may need to complete specific college-level courses before applying. Common prerequisites include human anatomy and physiology, microbiology, college algebra, statistics, and psychology.
- Minimum GPA Requirement: Most programs require a minimum GPA—typically around 2.5 to 3.0—for previous college coursework, especially in science courses.
- Entrance Exam Scores (if required): Some schools require scores from standardized tests such as the HESI A2 or TEAS to assess your readiness for nursing coursework.
- CPR Certification: You may be required to have current CPR certification from the American Heart Association for Healthcare Providers.
What courses are typically in an affordable paramedic to RN online bridge program?
Here are the core courses typically included in an affordable Paramedic to RN online bridge program, with brief descriptions for each. If you’re also interested in advancing your education in a different field, you might look into affordable online mathematics degree programs to see how flexible graduate options compare in cost and structure.
- Transition to Professional Nursing: Covers the role of the registered nurse and helps paramedics shift from emergency response to comprehensive patient care.
- Nursing Fundamentals: Introduces basic nursing concepts, such as safety, infection control, patient mobility, and documentation.
- Health Assessment: Teaches students how to perform physical assessments and gather health histories using nursing frameworks.
- Pharmacology for Nurses: Focuses on drug classifications, medication administration, and how to calculate dosages safely and accurately.
- Medical-Surgical Nursing: Explores care for adult patients with acute and chronic health conditions, often divided into two or more course levels.
- Maternal and Newborn Nursing: Covers care for pregnant women, labor and delivery, and newborns, emphasizing assessment and intervention.
- Pediatric Nursing: Focuses on nursing care for infants, children, and adolescents, including developmental stages and family-centered care.
- Mental Health Nursing: Teaches principles of psychiatric nursing, including communication techniques, common mental disorders, and crisis intervention.
- Leadership and Management in Nursing: Prepares students for RN responsibilities such as delegation, ethical decision-making, and team leadership.
- Nursing Capstone/Clinical Practicum: Provides hands-on clinical experience under supervision, allowing students to apply learned skills in real-world settings.
What types of specializations are available in affordable paramedic to RN online bridge programs?
Just as with the top ADN programs, affordable paramedic to RN online bridge programs sometimes offer specializations or electives to help students focus on a specific area of nursing. From 2022 to 2023, there was a decline in both enrollment and graduates for accelerated baccalaureate nursing programs, according to the AACN's 2023 survey. Enrollment decreased from 28,580 students in 2022 to 25,869 in 2023, while the number of graduates fell from 19,076 to 18,714 during the same period.
Common specializations for paramedic to RN online bridge programs include:
- Emergency Nursing: Builds on paramedic experience to care for critically ill or injured patients in emergency departments.
- Critical Care Nursing: Focuses on caring for patients with life-threatening conditions in intensive care units (ICUs).
- Pediatric Nursing: Concentrates on the care of infants, children, and adolescents across various healthcare settings.
- Geriatric Nursing: Emphasizes care for older adults, addressing age-related health issues and chronic conditions.
- Mental Health Nursing: Prepares nurses to support patients with psychiatric disorders and promote mental wellness.
- Community/Public Health Nursing: Focuses on health promotion, disease prevention, and care in community settings.
- Medical-Surgical Nursing: Covers care for adult patients with a wide range of medical and surgical conditions.
Note that not all bridge programs offer formal specializations; some may provide elective courses or clinical rotations in these areas instead. Availability often depends on the school’s resources and program length. If you’re considering expanding your qualifications in a different discipline, you might also explore an affordable master’s in industrial engineering online to see how specialization options and program flexibility compare across fields.
Employment projections show strong demand for healthcare professionals, but growth varies by role. The chart below compares the projected employment changes for paramedics and registered nurses through 2033, highlighting the greater long-term opportunities in nursing.
What student support services do these online bridge programs offer?
Effective student support is vital for successfully balancing work, study, and clinical commitments in an online environment. Many programs provide tailored academic advising, technical tutoring, and access to digital resources that enhance learning and ensure smooth navigation through coursework. Additionally, dedicated career counseling services—such as resume workshops, job placement assistance, and networking opportunities—are integrated into these programs to help students transition seamlessly into the workforce. Some programs also establish clear pathways for further education, including streamlined transfer options to pursue advanced credentials like RN to BSN online with no clinicals, ensuring ongoing professional growth.
Are these online bridge programs accredited and state-approved?
Accreditation and state approval are crucial for ensuring that an online bridge program meets rigorous educational standards and qualifies graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam. Prospective students should verify that the program is accredited by recognized agencies, as this not only enhances the credibility of the institution but also facilitates eligibility for federal financial aid and employer recognition. Additionally, confirm that the program complies with state licensure requirements to guarantee a smooth transition from education to practice. For further comparative insights on program quality, consider reviewing cheap online RN-BSN programs.
How do you choose the best affordable paramedic to RN online bridge program?
About 194,500 openings for registered nurses are projected each year, on average, through 2034. Due to this, registered nurses often pursue their four-year degree through fast track RN to BSN online programs.
Here are the key steps to choose the best affordable paramedic to RN online bridge program:
- Check Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by recognized bodies like ACEN or CCNE. Accreditation guarantees quality education and eligibility for RN licensure. Confirm the program meets the nursing board requirements for the state where you plan to practice.
- Consider Admission Requirements: Make sure you meet prerequisites like licensure, experience, GPA, and entrance exams.
- Compare Tuition and Fees: Look for programs with transparent, affordable costs. Factor in tuition, fees, textbooks, and clinical expenses. Check if the school offers scholarships, grants, or payment plans that make the program more affordable.
- Review Program Length and Flexibility: Choose a program that fits your schedule—whether full-time, part-time, online, or hybrid—and aligns with your career timeline.
- Evaluate Curriculum and Clinical Opportunities: Ensure the program covers core nursing courses and offers sufficient clinical hours, preferably with diverse healthcare settings.
- Look at NCLEX-RN Pass Rates: High pass rates indicate effective preparation for nursing licensure exams.
What career paths are available for graduates of affordable paramedic to RN online bridge programs?
Graduates of affordable paramedic to RN online bridge programs can pursue a variety of rewarding nursing career paths, including:
- Registered Nurse (RN) in Hospitals: Work in medical-surgical units, emergency departments, ICUs, or specialty areas providing direct patient care.
- Emergency Room Nurse: Use your paramedic skills to manage acute trauma and urgent care cases in fast-paced emergency settings.
- Critical Care Nurse: Care for seriously ill patients in intensive care units, applying advanced monitoring and life-support techniques.
- Community Health Nurse: Provide healthcare services, education, and outreach in clinics, schools, or public health organizations.
- Home Health Nurse: Deliver nursing care to patients in their homes, helping with chronic illness management and recovery.
- Nurse Educator or Trainer: Teach or mentor new nurses and paramedics, especially in emergency or trauma care specialties.
- Nurse Case Manager: Coordinate patient care plans, working with healthcare teams to improve outcomes and reduce costs.
- Occupational Health Nurse: Focus on employee health and safety within workplaces, including injury prevention and wellness programs.
- Flight Nurse or Transport Nurse: Provide critical care during patient transport via air or ground ambulance, leveraging paramedic experience.
- Nursing Leadership Roles: Move into supervisory or management positions, overseeing nursing staff and clinical operations. You can pursue higher roles with affordable RN to BSN online programs.
What is the job market like for graduates with an affordable paramedic to RN online bridge program?
Graduates of affordable paramedic to RN online bridge programs generally find a favorable job market, bolstered by the increasing demand for registered nurses (RNs). The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment for RNs will grow by 6% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations, with approximately 19,200 openings each year due to retirements and workforce transitions.
Paramedic-to-RN bridge programs are designed to leverage the clinical experience and emergency care skills of paramedics, allowing for a smoother transition into nursing roles. This background makes graduates particularly well-suited for high-demand areas such as emergency departments, critical care units, and trauma centers.
Moreover, the combination of paramedic experience and nursing education enhances employability and can lead to higher starting salaries compared to traditional nursing graduates. This also applies to ADN vs AAD vs AAS nursing degrees.
The job market for graduates of paramedic-to-RN bridge programs is robust, offering diverse opportunities in various healthcare settings. The integration of paramedic experience with nursing education not only facilitates career advancement but also contributes to addressing the ongoing demand for skilled nursing professionals.
Here's What Graduates Have to Say About Their Affordable Paramedic to RN Online Bridge Programs
Studying online allowed me to keep working full-time as a paramedic while pursuing my RN license. The flexibility was a game-changer, and the support from instructors made me feel connected every step of the way. Jordan
I was nervous about going back to school, but the online format helped me ease in without disrupting my family life. The coursework built perfectly on my paramedic experience, and passing the NCLEX-RN felt like reaching the next level in my career. Monica
The online bridge program gave me the tools I needed to move from the field to the hospital floor. Learning at my own pace while still meeting deadlines kept me motivated, and now I’m working in the ER as an RN. Tyrell
What advanced educational opportunities can further boost my nursing career?
Advanced education can expand your clinical expertise and open pathways to specialized or leadership roles. Many RN graduates pursue a Master of Science in Nursing or explore certification programs in areas such as critical care, pediatrics, or oncology. For those interested in moving directly into advanced practice roles, programs such as direct entry nurse practitioner programs online offer a streamlined path without prior RN experience. These opportunities not only enhance clinical competencies but also prepare nurses to meet evolving healthcare demands while paving the way to roles with greater responsibility and higher earning potential.
Key Findings
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment for RNs will grow by 6% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations, with approximately 19,200 openings each year due to retirements and workforce transitions.
- From 2022 to 2023, there was a decline in both enrollment and graduates for accelerated baccalaureate nursing programs, according to the AACN's 2023 survey. Enrollment decreased from 28,580 students in 2022 to 25,869 in 2023, while the number of graduates fell from 19,076 to 18,714 during the same period.
- Many programs prefer or require at least 1–2 years of work experience. This ensures you have hands-on patient care knowledge to build upon in your nursing education.
- The average cost of an affordable paramedic to RN online bridge program in the U.S. ranges from approximately $5,000 to $10,000, depending on the institution, residency status, and program structure.
- An affordable paramedic to RN online bridge program typically takes one to two years to complete. The exact length depends on the program structure, whether it's full-time or part-time, and if the student has already completed general education or prerequisite courses.
Other Things You Should Know About Affordable Paramedic to RN Online Bridge Programs
Do online bridge programs require entrance exams?
Some online paramedic to RN bridge programs do require entrance exams, such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI. These exams assess a student's readiness for nursing coursework by testing subjects like math, science, and reading. However, not all programs require them, so it's important to check each school's specific admission criteria.
Are clinical hours required in online paramedic to RN bridge programs?
Yes, clinical hours are required in online paramedic to RN bridge programs. These hands-on experiences are essential for meeting state licensure requirements and developing practical nursing skills. While coursework is online, clinicals must be completed in person—often at approved healthcare facilities near the student’s location.
Can I sit for the NCLEX-RN exam after completing a paramedic to RN online bridge program?
Yes, you can sit for the NCLEX-RN exam after completing an accredited paramedic to RN online bridge program. These programs are designed to meet the educational requirements for RN licensure. Once you graduate and meet your state board's eligibility criteria, you can apply to take the NCLEX-RN.
What career advancement opportunities exist for paramedic to RN bridge graduates?
Paramedic to RN bridge graduates can advance into specialized nursing roles such as emergency room nurse, critical care nurse, or flight nurse. With experience and further education, they can also move into leadership positions like nurse manager, nurse educator, or pursue advanced practice roles such as nurse practitioner. The RN credential significantly expands both clinical and career growth opportunities.
References:
- American Association of Colleges of Nursing. (n.d.). Accelerated baccalaureate and master’s degrees in nursing.
- American Association of Colleges of Nursing. (n.d.). Nursing workforce fact sheet.
- Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor. (2024). EMTs and paramedics. Occupational Outlook Handbook.
- Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor. (2024). Registered nurses. Occupational Outlook Handbook.
- O*NET OnLine. (n.d.). Paramedics.
