Top Questions About Athena’s LPN to RN Program—Answered
Posted On July 7,2025
Making the leap from LPN to RN is a smart move, but it can feel overwhelming. You’re probably working long shifts, managing responsibilities at home, and wondering how to squeeze school into an already packed schedule. You might be asking yourself if going back to school is worth the time, effort, and cost. These are valid concerns, and you’re not alone in asking them.
Athena Career Academy understands what working LPNs are up against. That’s why the program was designed to support your goals without pulling you away from the life you’ve built.
How Long Does the LPN to RN Program Take?
Athena’s LPN to RN program can be completed in as little as 15 months. That means you could be working as a registered nurse in just over a year. The accelerated format is designed to move you forward without dragging out the process. Every course builds on the experience you already have as an LPN, which allows you to gain new skills quickly and confidently.
Are Classes Offered at Times That Work for LPNs Who Are Already Working?
Yes. The program was built with working nurses in mind. Athena offers flexible scheduling options that allow you to continue working while pursuing your education. Classes are held during both daytime and evening hours, and clinicals are scheduled with flexibility. You won’t have to quit your job to enroll, and you can keep your paycheck coming while you advance your career.
What Are the Admission Requirements?
To apply for Athena’s LPN to RN program, you must already hold a current and unrestricted LPN license. You’ll also need to submit your high school diploma or GED, complete an entrance exam, and pass a background check. Additional requirements include immunizations and a physical to confirm you’re able to participate in clinical rotations. Athena’s admissions team is available to walk you through each step, so you don’t have to figure it all out on your own.
How Are Clinical Hours Scheduled?
Clinical experience is a key part of becoming an RN. Athena works with a variety of healthcare partners in the region to offer hands-on clinicals in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and other healthcare settings. The program schedules clinicals to match your class load and personal availability, often in the same weekly blocks as your classroom instruction. This makes it easier to plan childcare, work shifts, and transportation.
Can I Handle School, Work, and Life at the Same Time?
This is one of the biggest questions LPNs ask before enrolling, and it’s a fair one. The truth is that going back to school does require time and commitment. But with the right support system in place, it’s completely manageable. Athena structures the program to keep your learning efficient and effective. You’ll get practical, job-focused training without unnecessary extras, and the instructors are experienced in working with adult learners who have busy lives.
More than 75% of LPNs who return to school for their RN say their work-life balance improved once they adjusted to the routine. It’s not easy at first, but with a predictable schedule and the support of peers and faculty, most students find their rhythm quickly.
What Support Services Does Athena Offer During the Program?
Athena provides a wide range of student services to help you stay on track. These include academic advising, tutoring, and test prep support. If you’re struggling with a particular subject or balancing your responsibilities, instructors and staff are easy to reach and ready to help. There’s also access to career guidance to help you prepare for the NCLEX-RN and apply for new positions once you graduate.
Is Financial Aid Available?
Yes. Athena Career Academy is approved to participate in federal financial aid programs, and most students qualify for some form of assistance. You’ll have access to financial aid advisors who can help you complete the FAFSA, explore grants and loans, and find options that fit your situation. In fact, over 85% of nursing students nationwide use some type of financial aid to complete their program. There’s no need to let money stop you from moving forward.
What Makes Athena Different from Other Nursing Programs?
Athena isn’t a one-size-fits-all program. It was built for practical nurses who want real-world training and flexible support. The instructors have experience working in clinical settings and understand the demands of nursing life. You’re not treated like a number. You’re part of a tight-knit learning community where everyone is invested in helping you succeed.
What Can I Expect After Graduation?
Graduating from Athena’s LPN to RN program qualifies you to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam. Once you pass, you’ll be licensed to work as a registered nurse in Ohio. RNs have access to more job opportunities, higher salaries, and greater responsibilities than LPNs. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for RNs is $86,070, which is significantly higher than the average pay for LPNs.
What Should I Do Next If I’m Ready to Learn More?
If you’ve been thinking about this move for a while, now is the time to take action. You can schedule a campus visit, talk with an admissions representative, and ask questions that relate to your situation. You don’t have to figure it all out today, but taking one small step can move you a lot closer to the career you want.
Here’s What Makes It All Possible
Athena Career Academy makes advancing your nursing career feel less like a risk and more like a realistic plan. With flexible class schedules, personalized support, and a fast-paced format, it’s designed to work for real people with real responsibilities. You already know how to care for others. Now it’s time to invest in yourself. Ready to take the next step? Contact Athena Career Academy today!