Excelsior University LPN to RN Program: Requirements and Considerations

Excelsior University offers an Associate in Applied Science in Nursing program designed for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) seeking to become Registered Nurses (RNs). This program caters to working LPNs by providing a flexible learning environment that can fit into their busy lives. The program allows students to learn on their time, from anywhere. However, prospective students should be aware of the specific requirements and potential challenges associated with the program, especially concerning licensure in certain states like California.

General Program Requirements

The Excelsior LPN to RN program has specific admission and academic requirements. These requirements aim to ensure that students have the foundational knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the nursing curriculum.

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for the Excelsior LPN to RN program, applicants must:

Work in clinical settings.
Meet certain minimum requirements.
Submit an official Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) score. This test assesses reading, math, science, and English skills, and proficiency in these areas is crucial for success in the nursing curriculum. Most students meet the composite score requirement on their first try.

Academic Requirements

The program requires students to complete a variety of general education and nursing-specific courses. Key aspects of the academic requirements include:

Minimum GPA: Students must maintain a nursing GPA of at least 2.0 for satisfactory academic progression in the program.
Transfer Credits: Courses may be transferred in from outside sources of credit with a minimum grade of a C or higher. However, there may be limitations on the number of credits that can be transferred from non-traditional programs. It's important to note that only 25%-30% of credits can be from non-traditional programs.
Core Requirements: Students must fulfill specific requirements in areas such as written English, ethics, humanities, social sciences/history, and natural sciences/mathematics. While Excelsior offers recommended courses for these requirements, other course options may be available. However, some courses must be completed with Excelsior University to meet the requirement.
Natural Sciences/Mathematics: Students must complete a minimum of 3 credits in natural sciences and 3 credits in mathematics. Restrictions apply to developmental or remedial courses and the level of mathematics courses.

Specific Course Requirements

Several courses must be completed with Excelsior University to fulfill program requirements. These courses often include:

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Verification of Health Care Experience

Prior to registering for certain courses, students may need to submit a new Verification of Health Care Experience (VHCE) form. This form must be submitted no more than three months before receiving approval to register for the course.

California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) Requirements

A significant consideration for Excelsior graduates is meeting the licensing requirements of the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN). California has specific regulations regarding supervised clinical practice that may impact graduates of the Excelsior program.

Supervised Clinical Practice

California requires supervised clinical practice to be concurrent with theory in all prelicensure nursing content areas. These areas include:

Geriatrics
Medical-Surgical
Mental Health/Psychiatric Nursing
Obstetrics
Pediatrics

Compliance Issues for Excelsior Graduates

Excelsior graduates who enrolled at Excelsior on or after December 6, 2003, may not automatically meet California BRN licensing requirements. This is because the California BRN mandates that supervised clinical practice be concurrent with theory in all prelicensure nursing content areas.

Addressing Non-Compliance

An Excelsior graduate may be able to meet California licensing requirements by making up non-compliant prelicensure nursing courses. These courses must deliver both theory and supervised clinical practice concurrently. It is crucial for prospective students planning to seek licensure in California to carefully review the BRN's requirements and ensure that their coursework aligns with these standards.

Read also: Excelsior Eligibility

Program Flexibility and Benefits

Despite the challenges, the Excelsior LPN to RN program offers significant flexibility and benefits, particularly for working LPNs.

Flexibility

The program's design allows students to learn at their own pace and from any location. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for LPNs who need to balance their studies with work and family responsibilities.

Career Advancement

Completing the LPN to RN program can open up a wide range of career opportunities in nursing. RNs have more options for specialization and advancement compared to LPNs. Some potential career paths for RNs include:

Operating Room (OR)
Emergency Room (ER)
Hospice
Home Care

Personal and Professional Growth

The program not only enhances professional skills but also provides personal growth. Many students find motivation in the prospect of a brighter future and more career options, which can positively impact their families.

Financial Considerations

Prospective students should carefully plan their finances when considering the Excelsior LPN to RN program. Costs can include tuition, fees, books, and other study materials. It's also important to factor in potential expenses for non-affiliated CPNE workshops, which, while not required, can help students prepare for the CPNE (Clinical Performance in Nursing Examination).

CLEP and Alternative Credits

Students may be able to reduce costs by utilizing CLEP (College-Level Examination Program) exams and alternative credit sources like StraighterLine and Portage Learning for prerequisite courses. However, it's crucial to ensure that these credits are accepted by Excelsior and that they meet the program's requirements.

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