With the graying of America, the increase in the number of years Americans are living, along with the increasing number with chronic diseases, the demand for LPNs and RNs remains strong, despite the dismal economy. This demand is the primary reason for the growth in the number of LPN to RN schools.

While the LPN position has a secure future, the job opportunities are limited as compared to the opportunities for RNs. It is because of this issue that many LPNs seek to enter one of the many available LPN to RN programs.

With these programs, the LPN can continue to work, often flexible hours, earning about $15 per hour. The continued income helps the LPN pay for the advanced education and soon realize the dream of becoming a RN.

The RN position does offer not only increased in available jobs but also more than twice the wage. For many LPNs, this is an opportunity they can’t refuse. So, this is another driving factor behind the rise in the available LPN to RN schools.

To the LPN seeking to move forward in her nursing education, there are a couple of advantages to having so many schools to choose from. The first advantage is the variety of courses and programs. While all lead to the eligibility to sit for the nursing exam, they each strive to be unique and desirable to the prospective students. In other words, the schools work very hard to win your education dollars.

Another advantage is related to the competition between schools. In order to gain more students, the schools may offer some pretty attractive financial aid packages. It may be best to apply and gain admission to several schools and then base your decision on which one gives you the most in financial aid.