Nursing Programs in Birmingham, Alabama

Nursing Program Comparison Chart

Program	Credits	Months
Diploma in Practical Nursing - Alabama	52	12
Associate and Associate of Applied Science in Nursing - LPN to RN Bridge	75	18
Bachelor of Science in Nursing - RN to BSN Bridge	129	24

*Average number of months for students to complete program

Diploma in Practical Nursing

Clinical experience is an integral part of the program.

The practical nurse program provides academic, theoretical and clinical instruction in medical, surgical, obstetric, pediatric, geriatric and mental health nursing. Basic elements of the heath care delivery system and the multi-disciplines that are incorporated into the system are introduced. Concepts of disease and wellness will be presented through out the program and will bridge across the human life span.

Legal and ethical issues with an emphasis on confidentiality and effective communication skills are included. The student will acquire skills in asepsis, measurement of vital signs, CPR and basic first aid and will understand the concepts of medical asepsis, infection control and Universal Precautions applicable to all areas of healthcare. The importance of safe practice and the use of proper body mechanics are stressed. Mental health concepts, administration of medications, body structure and function, nutrition and personal, family and community concepts are studied.

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Associate and Associate of Applied Science in Nursing - LPN to RN Bridge

Birmingham students must have an active and unrestricted Alabama LPN license to be enrolled in the program.

The LPN to RN completion program is open to licensed practical nurses (LPNs) who have completed a practical nursing program approved by a state board of nursing. The program supports practical nurses desiring to advance their educational pursuits and increase career opportunities. The program prepares students to practice as an entry-level registered nurse in a variety of healthcare settings. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN examination and apply for licensure as a registered nurse in the states where offered.

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Bachelor of Science in Nursing - RN to BSN Bridge

With a 22% growth rate, opportunities for registered nurses will be expanding much faster than average. This is among the largest number of new jobs for any occupation.

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Stand out with a BSN

With all that growth, it’s important to note that many higher-paying and more challenging positions are open only to nurses with a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Administrative or management positions, for example, require a higher level of education.

A bachelor’s degree is also a prerequisite for admission to graduate nursing programs. This means earning your BSN will be a necessary stepping stone on your path to a career in:

Research
Consulting
Teaching
Advanced-practice nursing, such as clinical nurse specialist, nurse anesthetist, nurse-midwife, nurse practitioner

Convenient online classes

The Herzing BSN-Bridge program is taught online so you can continue working as an RN while you finish your degree. You’ll take about two classes at a time for easier focus and log into class at your convenience from any internet-connected computer.