Middlesex College Launches One-Year LPN-to-RN Program To Address State Nursing Gap

Middlesex College will start a new program this August. Licensed Practical Nurses can earn an associate degree in nursing and become registered nurses in just one year. The college got provisional approval from the New Jersey Board of Nursing for this three-semester bridge program.

Sign-ups begin in August. Students will take classes, train at medical sites, and practice with simulation equipment to get ready for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nursing.

"This three-semester program provides LPNs with an accessible opportunity to build on their clinical expertise and expand their scope of practice while continuing to serve the healthcare needs of our communities," said Kara Kaldawi, nursing program director at Middlesex College, according to Patch.

College President Mark McCormick said the program tackles nursing shortages across New Jersey. It removes obstacles that prevent working medical staff from moving up in their jobs. Students can partner with Hackensack Meridian Health and RWJBarnabas Health — two major employers in the region.

The program helps build pathways for future workers as hospitals need more registered nurses. Community colleges now play a big part in preparing people for medical jobs, filling empty positions at facilities that desperately need help.

LPNs who finish would qualify for wider duties than their current licenses permit. They'd earn more money after getting better credentials, opening doors that stayed shut before.

All candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to work as registered nurses. Clearing this test means graduates can take on bigger roles at hospitals, clinics, and various medical places.

The three-semester setup moves faster than standard nursing programs. Working nurses can move ahead without stepping away from their jobs for long stretches, which matters when bills need paying and families need support.

Provisional approval from the state board lets the college accept students and run the program. Officials will check again for full approval after the first group finishes.