With RN jobs expected to grow by 22 percent in coming years, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that becoming an RN is the most common career move for LPNs. Over 17,500 RNs practice in Hawaii (most on Oahu) and at around $82,000, their mean salary is among the highest in the U.S. Although some sources report an RN surplus in the state, that trend is not expected to continue, according to the Hawaii State Center for Nursing. RNs enjoy a variety of professional opportunities. Over 60 percent of RNs in Hawaii work in hospitals. Long-term care and ambulatory facilities are other popular choices.
LPN to ADN programs are found at a few community colleges, whereas LPN to BSN programs are offered at some four-year institutions. Most Hawaiian programs are traditional in structure, and online program options are limited. Tuition can be expensive, but some hospitals and long-term care facilities offer at least partial tuition reimbursement. The Hawaii Student Nurses Association also carries a current list of available scholarships. To learn more about being an RN in Hawaii, check out the Hawaii Nurses' Association, Hawaii Board of Nursing, and the Healthcare Association of Hawaii.
Examples of LPN to RN programs in Hawaii
Hawaii Pacific University (Kaneohe, HI). HPU is proud of its diversity of students and boasts small class sizes and comparatively low tuition for a private college. Admission requirements for their NLNAC-accredited LPN to BSN program include completion of prerequisites, a current LPN license, and one year of acute care experience.
University of Hawaii-Kapiolani Community College (Honolulu, HI). KCC is located near the Diamond Head Crater and convenient to beaches and downtown Honolulu. Program requirements include completion of prerequisites and the National League for Nursing Pre-Admissions Exam. No work experience is required.
University of Hawaii-Kauai Community College (Lihue, HI). This college is the only one located on the island of Kauai. Their LPN to ADN program may be completed in three semesters after completion of prerequisites.
