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Enrolling in a LPN to RN program could be your first step towards a professional nursing career. But which kind of programs should you apply to – traditional or online?

An online program is usually the most affordable path to becoming a RN. If you don’t have any direct experience with online learning, however, you may be wary of non-traditional nursing programs. Before making up your mind read these five common myths about online nursing programs and find out what real-life online nursing students think about them.

Myth #1: Online LPN to RN Nursing Programs Have Low Academic Standards.

There’s no point in saving money on an online program if the academic quality is below standard. After all, you want the best education your money can buy. But are online programs really lacking in the academic department?

“I transferred to an online program from a traditional program because the commute was taking too much time,” says Amira, a RN practicing in Colorado. “I was pleasantly surprised by the high standard. It was just as challenging as the traditional program. The course is self-paced in that you can log on whenever you want, but you have be really disciplined and do a bit every day to avoid falling behind. With the videos and audio downloads as well as reading text, I learned a lot.”

Myth #2: Online LPN to RN Programs Are Impersonal.

Some people imagine that online nursing programs lack the social interaction of traditional ones. Is it true?

Angelo, an LPN from Iowa, says no. “If anything, I got more personal attention from my instructors,” he reports. “I didn’t have to stand in line to talk to them at their office, I just emailed whenever I had questions or posted on the forums. I also voice chatted with my classmates, some of whom I still keep in touch with. It felt like a real community.”

Myth #3: Online LPN to RN Programs Are Only If You’re In a Rush.

You’ve probably heard about accelerated online programs, but it’s a mistake to assume that every online nursing program is accelerated. The beauty of online learning is that it can take as long as you like.

Madison began an online LPN to RN program 4 years ago. She runs her own small business and has two children, so her schedule fluctuates depending on the time of the year. “I love being able to tailor my course load,” she says. “It’s really convenient.”

Myth #4: Online LPN-to-RN Program Credits Are Not Transferable.

You might be worried about committing to an online program. What will happen if you change your mind? Simple – you’ll just transfer your credits to another institution.

“As long as a school is accredited, there’s no difference between online and traditional when it comes to credits,” says Chantel, an LPN who hopes to find a job in the ICU ward once she graduates. “I actually transferred some credits from traditional to online, but it would have been just as easy going the other way. It’s the accreditation that matters, not the medium of learning.”

Myth #5: Online LPN to RN Programs Look Shady On Your Resume.

Are you concerned that potential employers won’t think highly of your degree? This isn’t the 1980s. Online programs are widely accepted, and employers won’t bat an eye. If this is a concern, feel free to call potential employers in your area and ask them, or just read what Kay has to say:

“I graduated at the same time as several of my friends, and none of us had trouble finding jobs,” says Kay, who now works in a public health center. “Online or traditional program, who cares these days? It’s what you do with it that matters.”

Still Have Doubts?

Most online programs will be happy to put you in touch with former students, or you can ask around on online nursing forums. You’ll find that online LPN to RN programs are fast becoming the norm. And it’s no wonder: flexible schedules, no commute, no waiting lines, and affordable tuition…what more could you ask for? Request information about LPN to RN programs and find out for yourself!

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