What is an RN to BSN Program?

by | Jan 14, 2022

An RN to BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program is a degree path that helps registered nurses who don’t have their bachelor’s degree to acquire one. Designed to increase nursing knowledge and skills and provide nurses with a respected credential, the programs are generally more flexible than traditional degree paths, often delivered in an online format. If you are a licensed, registered nurse, an RN to BSN program has many benefits.

What Kinds of Courses are Included in an RN to BSN Program?

In an RN to BSN program, you’ll complete courses intended to strengthen your existing nursing foundation and expand your general knowledge so that you can improve as a nurse and caregiver. Each college will have its own requirements and structure, but here is a sample of some of the courses you may take:

  • Concepts of Professional Nursing
  • Health Assessment
  • Health Tech and Informatics
  • Transcultural Nursing
  • Nursing Theory and Research
  • Nursing Leadership
  • Nursing Care of the Older Adult
  • Women’s Health
  • Pathophysiology
  • Nursing Care of Communities
  • Evidence-based Nursing Practice
  • Nursing Capstone

What Format Does an RN to BSN Program Take?

RN to BSN programs are often delivered in a hybrid format where you learn material online and then put your newly developed knowledge to practice in clinical rotations. They also can be more accelerated than traditional BSN programs. That’s because the courses you will be required to take depend on those you might have already passed and how they transfer to a new institution. This accelerated approach provides you the same course knowledge, clinical practice, and study as a traditional BSN degree, but you can do it in a fraction of the time.

Are There Clinical Hours in an RN to BSN Program

Each school will have its own requirements, but there generally is a clinical component. Whether you’re required to complete it near campus or near your home depends on the institution. Visit the university’s website or its nursing course catalog to find out specific requirements and options.

Why Pursue a BSN?

There are several benefits to the BSN degree. Topping the list will be your ability to provide better patient care and positively influence the profession you love. Also, there has been a push for more nurses to attain the credential. An initiative for 80% of nurses to hold a bachelor’s degree by 2020 may have missed its mark, but more employers now demand the credential. In fact, New York state now requires registered practical nurses to obtain a bachelor’s degree within 10 years of licensure and other states may follow suit. If you want to be the best at your profession, the BSN may be a natural next step in your career. The BSN degree can provide increased opportunities for growth within the nursing profession and in some cases can lead to increased salary.

The Bluefield University School of Nursing offers an online RN to BSN program that you can complete in as few as 12 months. It will provide you with knowledge, skills, and support through digital nursing courses and in-person clinicals in your local area. Our program is CCNE accredited and prepares you for multiple career paths, including patient education, risk management, and community health. If nursing is your Christian calling, it’s time to build upon your God-given talents to make even more of a difference in the lives of others. Contact us today to get started.

Do I only apply once?

  • No. Students must apply each academic year for the fall semester and submit the necessary documents.

Do I have to take the classes specified in the Associate's Degree tracks as they are listed on the information sheet?

  • No. Students may take any of the courses that are offered in a given term.

Where do I find the textbook listing, and where do I purchase the books?

  • Log in to myBU, and under the "Student" tab, you will find a list of the textbooks required (if any) for each course. Students are responsible for purchasing their own textbooks.

How long is a semester?

  • Our semesters are divided into two 8-week terms.

Is there an orientation?

  • Yes. Students can attend an orientation session that explains how to access courses, how to register for classes, and answers other questions.

Where can I find a course description?

Does the student need to take the SAT or ACT in order to take Dual Enrollment classes?

  • No. If a student decides to study at BU full time, BU is currently test-optional for the 2021-2022 admissions cycle.

Are the classes live? Do students need to log in and participate at certain times?

  • Classes are offered online, so a student can log-on and study at their convenience and their own pace. Students have assignments due each week; you can complete your assignments at any point in time before the deadline.

Does an Early College student need to come to campus for anything?

  • No. However, we would love to have you visit our campus if you are interested in continuing with traditional on-campus study. Students who complete their associate's degree have the option to walk at our commencement ceremony.

Are Early College students able to receive Financial Aid?

  • No. However, Early College courses are very affordable compared to other options. The cost for an online Dual Enrollment course is $100 per credit hour.

How do transferring credits work?

  • Each College or University completes a transcript review in order to decide which courses transfer. Sticking to general education classes generally makes transferring credits simple. All Early College courses at Bluefield University are general education classes that should transfer to another accredited institution.

Is an Early College student considered, and treated, as a transfer student when they become a full-time college student if they have earned enough credits to be a Junior?

  • No. Since they have not graduated from high school, they are considered a first-time college student regardless of how many credits transfer. However, by transferring credits when they enroll as a full-time student, they will have to take fewer classes to receive their bachelor's degree, which shortens the length of time to earn the degree.

Can I speak to someone if I have more questions?

  • Yes. Please contact the Office of Admissions by email or you can call them at 276.326.4231

 

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