If you are an LPN and are seeking an expanded nursing role, consider getting your RN. Almost 5,000 RNs work in Wyoming - mostly in hospitals, doctors' offices, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Their mean annual salary is about $59,000, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. As an RN you'll have plenty of professional opportunities. Experts predict that Wyoming will require 3,307 more nurses by 2014 to keep pace with increased demand. The need stems mostly from the increased utilization of healthcare services by an aging state population.
Education programs are being developed to help RNs join the workforce. For LPNs, there are advanced placement ADN programs available. LPN to BSN programs are scarce, so LPNs who want this degree can complete their ADN and then transfer into one of several BSN programs in the state. Online options are also available.
Wyoming has made it easier for LPNs to afford their educations. The Wyoming Investment in Nursing program provides funds for students accepted into nursing programs at Wyoming community colleges or the University of Wyoming. Financial aid offices at colleges have comprehensive tuition assistance information, and your employer may offer tuition reimbursement. Some scholarship information is available at the Wyoming Nurses Association. For more information about being an RN in Wyoming, check out the Wyoming State Board of Nursing.
Some LPN to RN programs to consider:
Casper College (Casper, WY). To be considered for advanced placement in the LPN to ADN program, LPNs must pass skills testing. Most required courses have at least a partial online component.
Central Wyoming College (Riverton, WY). LPNs can be awarded up to 15 credits in CWC's LPN to ADN program. Some courses have a hybrid format.
Laramie County Community College (Cheyenne, WY). To qualify for the traditional LPN to ADN program, you must have had two consecutive semesters of nursing school or be a licensed LPN. If you have one year of work experience, you may take the online program.
