ATU Preparing New Hybrid LPN-to-BSN Program

ATU Nursing Lab File Photo
File photo from inside a nursing lab at Arkansas Tech University's Dean Hall.

Licensed practical nurses who wish to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Arkansas Tech University will soon have a new pathway to achieve their goal.

The ATU Department of Nursing will launch a hybrid LPN-to-BSN program in fall 2024. The hybrid program will allow working LPNs to take online courses and complete clinical hours via simulation (50 percent) and preceptorship (50 percent). Clinical placement will be individualized based on geographic area and work experience.

In order to pursue the hybrid option, LPNs must complete all prerequisite courses, have a current, unencumbered LPN license and document 1,000 or more practice hours in the previous 12-to-24 months. Applications for the ATU Department of Nursing hybrid LPN-to-BSN program will open in spring 2024.

The existing, face-to-face LPN-to-BSN pathway will remain available. LPN-to-BSN students pursuing the in-person program receive advanced placement in the nursing curriculum and attend face-to-face courses, clinicals and simulations within ATU’s traditional pre-licensure BSN program.

“ATU is committed to providing multiple pathways for nurses to achieve licensure or advance their education,” said Dr. Lisa Harless, ATU professor of nursing and director for the ATU LPN-to-BSN program.

Learn more about the ATU Department of Nursing by visiting www.atu.edu/nursing or calling (479) 968-0383.