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LPN-RN

Chemeketa offers multiple pathways for LPNs to advance into becoming a RN. You can take a traditional student approach or an apprenticeship approach.

Chemeketa Community College offers two distinct pathways for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) who are ready to take the next step toward becoming a Registered Nurse (RN). Both options lead to the same RN outcome, while providing flexibility to match different learning styles, work situations, and life commitments.

You may choose between a Traditional LPN–RN pathway or an LPN–RN Apprenticeship pathway, each designed with intention and support to help you succeed.

No matter which pathway you choose, you’ll receive the same high-quality education, faculty support, and preparation needed to advance your nursing career. We invite you to explore both options and discover which pathway best aligns with your goals.

  • Coursework Requirements

    To be eligible for the LPN-RN program, applicants must show completion of the following

    • BI 231 Human Anatomy and Physiology 1
    • BI 232 Human Anatomy and Physiology 2
    • BI 233 Human Anatomy and Physiology 3
    • MTH 095 Intermediate Algebra (or higher)
    • PSY 201Z Introduction to Psychology 1
    • PSY 237 Life Span Development
    • WR 121Z Composition 1 (or higher)
    • General Education Elective (4+ credits)
    • Additional Elective (3+ credits

    Additional course(s)

    • NUR272 (BI sequence is a prerequisite to this course)

    Upon acceptance, students will complete the following:

    • NUR112 (LPN-RN apprenticeship students only)
    • NUR206
    • NUR208
    • NUR209
  • Entry Requirements

    Interested applicants must: 

    • Be an active LPN with an unencumbered license
    • Be an active Chemeketa student to include
      • access to your school email and checking email regularly
      • access to your school ID
    • Submit transcripts from any other institutions (if applicable)
    • Show completion (or in-progress with anticipated completion spring term of application year) of the required prerequisite courses
      Note: only coursework from regionally accredited institutions are accepted. Coursework from non-regionally accredited institutions (examples include but not limited to - IOT, Sumner, and Pioneer Pacific) are not accepted. 
    • Connect with the Health Sciences office to schedule an academic advising appointment.
    • Complete Kaplan Exam
  • LPN-RN Pathways

    You may choose between a Traditional LPN–RN pathway or an LPN–RN Apprenticeship pathway, each designed with intention and support to help you succeed.

    The Traditional LPN–RN pathway follows a more structured, campus-based format with face-to-face lectures, hands-on lab and simulation experiences, and instructor-led clinical rotations. This option is ideal if you prefer in-person learning and a more traditional academic schedule.

    • Immersive Environment: Best for students who thrive on immediate feedback from instructors and the social support of a consistent peer cohort.

    • Accelerated Completion: Features a rigorous 9-month timeline (3 terms), making it the fastest route for those who can commit to being on campus 3–5 days per week.

    • Structured Consistency: Provides guaranteed clinical placements and lab times scheduled by the college, removing the need for employer coordination.

    The LPN–RN Apprenticeship pathway offers a flexible, employer-driven model that blends hybrid and online coursework with employer-led clinical experiences. This option is designed for working LPNs employed by a participating healthcare organization and want to continue earning while you learn.

    • Financial Stability: Specifically structured to allow you to maintain your current employment and income while meeting clinical requirements at your own workplace.

    • Hybrid Flexibility: Limits mandatory on-campus time (primarily for the NUR112 lab), utilizing online modules to accommodate a working professional’s schedule.

    • Collaborative Success: Requires a formal partnership between Chemeketa and your employer, ensuring your clinical experiences are integrated directly into your professional environment over a 12-month (4-term) period.

  • Kaplan Exam

    Kaplan Fundamentals Exam

    LPN-RN applicants are required to complete the Kaplan Fundamentals Exam as part of the application process. This exam is separate from the Kaplan entrance exam used for applicants to the traditional Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program.

    The Kaplan Fundamentals Exam:

    • Includes approximately 70–80 questions.
    • Allows approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes for completion.
    • Assesses the foundational nursing knowledge applicants gained through their practical nursing education and experience.

    Kaplan does not provide specific study materials for this exam. Applicants are encouraged to prepare as they would for the NCLEX-PN by reviewing foundational practical nursing concepts, clinical decision-making, safety, prioritization, and patient care.

    Testing is typically scheduled between May and July. Applicants will receive testing dates and instructions after their LPN-RN application has been reviewed and processed. Applicants should monitor their email regularly and carefully follow all testing instructions and deadlines provided by the Nursing Program.

    Important: Applicants should use the LPN-RN testing information provided on this webpage and should not use the Kaplan preparation information listed on the traditional ADN program webpage.