Upgrade Your Career: Become an LPN Through an Online MA-to-LPN Bridge Program

Upgrade Your Career: Become an LPN Through an Online MA-to-LPN Bridge Program

Are you currently working as a Medical Assistant (MA) and looking to double your income?
An MA-to-LPN Bridge Program could be your next big step.
Transitioning from a Medical Assistant (MA) to a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) not only boosts your earnings but also opens the door to greater career advancement opportunities.

Why Consider the MA-to-LPN Bridge?

  • Higher Salary Potential – LPNs typically earn more than MAs, with nationwide median salaries ranging from $50,000–$55,000 per year, compared to about $38,000–$42,000 for MAs.
  • Expanded Scope of Practice – LPNs provide direct patient care, administer medications, and often supervise CNAs.
  • Pathway to RN – After becoming an LPN, you can continue with LPN-to-RN or LPN-to-BSN programs for further advancement.
  • Fast-Track Learning – Many bridge programs can be completed in as little as 12–18 months, depending on transfer credits and state requirements.

Green River College – MA-Certified to Practical Nursing Pathway (Washington State)

  • Courses: Includes anatomy, pharmacology, patient care fundamentals, and practical lab training. Students with MA-C certification may test out of certain skill-based modules such as injections, PPE use, and glucose monitoring.
  • Admission Requirements: Valid MA-C certification, completion of prerequisite courses (minimum GPA 3.0), and passing a skills proficiency exam.
  • Highlights: Recognizes prior MA experience for course credit, reducing program length; offers academic support and financial aid.

Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC)

  • Courses: Combines nursing theory, clinical practice, and general education. Topics include human growth and development, nursing skills, pharmacology, and clinical rotations in hospitals and long-term care facilities.
  • Admission Requirements: Completion of MA-related and general education prerequisites with a minimum grade of B.
  • Highlights: Three semesters plus a summer session; prepares graduates for the NCLEX-PN exam; financial aid and scholarships available.

Lakeshore Technical College – Medical Assistant Bridge to PN (Wisconsin)

  • Courses: Covers 24 nursing bridge credits, including nursing fundamentals, health promotion, medication administration, and clinical practicums. General education courses must be completed before starting the nursing core.
  • Admission Requirements: MA certification with 3,000+ hours of work experience, completion of all prerequisite courses (grade C or higher).
  • Highlights: Evening and weekend classes, summer-only enrollment, and eligibility for federal and state financial aid programs.

Tuition and Financial Aid

💸 Cost Range: Typically between $5,000 – $9,000.
Many local technical colleges offer lower-cost programs. Most schools provide federal financial aid, scholarships, and payment plans, so tuition is rarely a barrier.
Some hospitals and clinics also offer tuition reimbursement for current employees.

Jessica's Journey from MA to LPN

Jessica had worked as a Medical Assistant (MA) in an Ohio clinic for four years. She loved helping patients but wanted more hands-on clinical work.

“I wanted to be a nurse, not just assist one.” — Jessica

In 2023, she joined an online MA-to-LPN bridge program with local clinical training while keeping her full-time job.
With a $2,000 financial aid grant, she completed the program in 14 months, passed the NCLEX-PN, and became a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).

Her salary jumped from $38,000 to $52,000, and she now works full-time at Mercy Health.

“Now I can truly care for patients on my own — it feels incredible.” — Jessica

She’s currently pursuing her next goal: becoming a Registered Nurse (RN).

Who Should Apply for an Online MA-to-LPN Bridge Program?

✅ You’re already a Medical Assistant or have relevant experience
✅ You want to earn your LPN license without quitting your job
✅ You need a flexible online learning model with local clinical placements
✅ You’re seeking a stable, high-demand career in healthcare

If this sounds like you, now is the best time to advance your career.

Start Your Nursing Journey Today

Don’t wait years to make your next move.
With the right online MA-to-LPN bridge program, you can become a licensed nurse in as little as 12–18 months —
learning while you work, earning more, and continuing to do what you love: helping patients and changing lives.

MA to LPN bridge