BUILDING A BRIDGE — West Virginia Northern Community College has announced a new Bridge program, providing an opportunity for licensed practical nurses to seek licensure as registered nurses. -- Contributed

WHEELING — West Virginia Northern Community College has launched a LPN to RN Bridge program, to begin with the 2025 summer semester.

Licensed practical nurses will now have the opportunity to take their careers to the next level by obtaining an associate degree in nursing, enabling them to seek licensure as Registered Nurses.

The LPN to RN Bridge program will span approximately three semesters. Applications for the program will be accepted until April 1. Classes for the summer semester start May 27.

“We are thrilled to bring this program to WVNCC,” said Jill Keyser, WVNCC’s nursing program director. “The demand for registered nurses in our region has never been higher, and this program will help address the critical needs of staffing in our local healthcare facilities.”

This program provides LPNs with a pathway to advance their nursing education while offering hands-on, state-of-the-art instruction.

“This is an incredible opportunity for our current LPNs and recent LPN graduates who aspire to become RNs,” said Hannah Westfall, WVNCC’s LPN program director. “Our advanced simulation technology and resources provide students with practical experience and preparation for their careers.”

In order to address the health care needs of the Northern Panhandle, WVNCC made an investment of more than $1 million in its nursing program, funded through the Nursing Workforce Expansion Program grant awarded by West Virginia. This investment included the creation of state-of-the-art simulation labs with leading-edge control rooms offering advanced recording capabilities to enhance student learning. These rooms are equipped with mid and high-fidelity mannequins and software that replicate real-world medical scenarios.

“This is another example of how West Virginia Northern Community College is meeting the needs of our local healthcare system,” added WVNCC President Daniel Mosser. “When I speak with CEOs of area hospitals, they consistently stress the high demand for Registered Nurses. This program is a vital step in training more healthcare professionals to serve our community and address this critical workforce need.”

For information about the program, including how to apply, visit wvncc.edu or call (304) 214-8838.