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Explore the Path to Earning an ADN in
Nashville through Galen’s LPN to ADN Bridge Program

  • Time to Complete: 18 months Full-Time
  • Primary Class Mode: On Campusⓘ
  • Start Times: 4x/year
  • Best Next Step If: You’re already an LPN/LVN and want to earn an associate degree and become an RN

The LPN/LVN-to-ADN Bridge is a streamlined program for licensed practical/vocational nurses to earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and qualify for RN licensure. At Galen College of Nursing, this bridge program can be completed in as little as 18 months, equipping you with advanced nursing knowledge, clinical leadership skills, and the eligibility to take the NCLEX‑RN exam.

This immersive, streamlined program picks up where your PN/VN education left off. Expand your practical/vocational nursing experience with knowledge you can apply to advance your healthcare career.

Choose this degree if you want to . . .
  • Become a registered nurse
  • Earn an associate degree
  • Have the potential to advance your careerⓘ
  • Position yourself to work with a variety of patient groupsⓘ

Why LPNs Should Obtain Their ADN in Nashville

Advancing from LPN/LVN to RN may open doors to enhanced clinical responsibilities, higher earning potential, and expanded career roles. This bridge builds on your foundational nursing experience with courses in pharmacology, pathophysiology, leadership, and complex care.

A diverse group of nursing students in blue scrubs are seated at tables in a bright simulation lab, listening to a female instructor in a white lab coat. The room features large windows, a hospital bed in the background, and medical equipment.

An ADN brings eligibility for RN roles in hospitals, community health, home care, and more, plus a pathway to BSN or higher degrees.

The Galen Student Experience – LPN to ADN Bridge Program in Nashville

Galen’s bridge program offers multiple start dates, a blend of online and on-campus coursework, and dedicated support for LPN/LVN-to-RN transitions. You’ll benefit from experienced faculty, hands-on simulation labs, and individualized guidance — all structured to help you successfully pass the NCLEX‑RN and advance into RN practice in a relatively short timeframe.

How to Start: Pre-Licensureⓘ

Our application is free and takes approximately 10 minutes to complete. No essays required.

New Students: Fill out the online application.

Readmissions: If you paused your Galen education for even one term, fill out this readmission application.

Not ready to apply yet? Fill out our request for information form and we’ll give you a call.

Once we receive your application, it’s time to schedule an admissions appointment.

This is the perfect opportunity to discuss everything you want to know about nursing school and attending Galen – from choosing the right program for your goals and life circumstances to transferring credits to financial aid (and everything in between).

For your convenience, we offer both virtual and on-campus appointments.

Ready to go now? Find your campus to select an admission appointment option that works for you! If you need more time, a Galen representative will be in touch to schedule your appointment.

After you’ve submitted your application, we’ll email you a link to a portal where you’ll upload your supporting documents. This portal will guide you through the process of sharing required documentation. It will also include contact information in case you have questions.

Required Documents:

Note: If you are applying to the LVN/LPN to ADN Bridge program specifically, you will also need to include proof of active PN/VN licensure and diploma.

Optional Documents/Resources:

  • If you would like to apply for Financial Aid: Submit all items on the Financial Aid Checklist and any other documents the Financial Aid department requests. Galen’s school code for the FAFSA is 015924.
  • If you’re interested in reviewing transfer credits: please provide your official college transcripts for any courses you want us to consider for transfer credit.
  • If you’re interested in learning more about Galen’s policies and standards for students: sign up for a Building Blocks to Success session (for the BSN & ADN and PN/VN programs)

 

Contact our enrollment team with any questions. We want your process to be as smooth as possible.

If you’ve been accepted and have submitted all required documentation, the next step will be to attend an Enrollment Appointment. Our enrollment team will get you registered for classes.

During this appointment, you have the opportunity to ask any questions before you make a commitment to attend Galen. There is no pressure! When you’re ready, we’ll walk you through final paperwork, and collect any remaining enrollment fees.

After your appointment, we’ll let you know about final steps, including a background check, drug testing and other clinical requirements. Once these documents are submitted and accepted, we will be in touch to discuss registering for classes. Welcome to Galen!

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