7 Questions You Might Have About RN-to-BSN Programs

If you've heard anything about RN-to-BSN programs, you probably know that there is a ton of information out there. Before diving into the ocean of possibilities and getting completely overwhelmed, read through this overview. The answers to these 7 common questions will give you the basic information you need to make informed decisions as you continue your research.

1. Who is eligible for RN-to-BSN programs?

RN-to-BSN programs were developed for registered nurses who hold a diploma or an associate's degree in nursing. The BSN degree prepares nurses to practice with higher autonomy and to pursue more challenging career options. A BSN degree is also a pre-requisite to apply to more advanced nursing degree programs, such as an MSN or PhD.

2. Do I really need a BSN to practice nursing?

Is nursing just a way to pay the bills for you? Do you see yourself doing something else in a few years? If so, a BSN degree is probably not worth the time and effort for you. On the other hand, are you envisioning nursing as a long-term career? Do you plan to apply for better-paying jobs with more demanding responsibilities? If this sounds more like you, than yes, you do need a BSN. An RN without a BSN degree will generally hit a ceiling at some point in his or her career. A BSN degree is an important first step for nurses who are serious about their careers.

3. What is the coursework like?

RN-to-BSN programs can be quite diverse in the types of classes they offer, so your best bet is to compare the required courses from a few different nursing schools. Most RN to BSN programs require foundational and advanced coursework in nursing science, liberal arts and behavioral sciences. Online RN to BSN programs that include a clinical component will offer guidance so that you can seamlessly integrate your theoretical knowledge into practical skills at a healthcare facility near you.

4. When can I start?

Online RN-to-BSN programs are designed to meet the needs of working nurses, so flexibility and convenience are top on the list of benefits. Online nursing schools offer multiple start dates each year for RN-to-BSN programs. Simply request information from several online schools with RN-BSN completion programs that interest you in order to compare programs and find out the available start dates. Unlike nursing programs at traditional universities, online programs have no waiting lists.

5. How long will it take to get my BSN degree?

A traditional BSN degree take a minimum of four years to earn on campus, and most campus-based RN to BSN programs are at least two years long, but online RN-to-BSN programs are accelerated and enable working RN's to earn their BSN degree in as little as 12 months while studying at their own pace. Online RN-to-BSN programs are extremely flexible in this regard and offer many options.

6. How much can I expect to earn?

As a registered nurse with a BSN, you can expect to earn more money in the long term than if you only had an associate's degree or a diploma. You will qualify for higher-paid jobs, as well as for further educational degrees such as an MSN or PhD, which in turn lead to better financial compensation. Some hospitals use a clinical ladder program, which rewards nurses with a BSN by paying them a certain dollar amount more per hour in addition to their base pay. Because a BSN degree opens the door to such a wide variety of nursing specialties, it would be misleading to quote an exact salary raise--it really depends on your specific career goals and local opportunities. However, you will certainly be eligible for higher paying positions as a nurse with a BSN.

7. How will a BSN degree improve my nursing career?

The BSN degree provides the educational preparation for nurses to practice with more independence in diverse settings, both within hospitals, and beyond. A BSN degree enables nurses to pursue more challenging careers in healthcare, obtain professional certification in nursing specialty fields, expands career options and job opportunities. Nurses with an BSN degree can practice at a higher level, with greater autonomy and responsibility. Additionally, a BSN degree is also the foundation for future nursing education such as Nursing Masters degree programs (M.S. in Nursing), and Nurse Practitioner programs.

Now that you have a good grasp of the basics, you can start to compare RN-to-BSN programs at various organizations. Simply request information, and you're one step closer to attaining your BSN degree!

Earn Your BSN Degree Online

Today’s nurses are able to advance from LPN all the way through Master’s in Nursing entirely online. Reshape your nursing career while you work with no classes to attend and no traffic to worry about. Earn your degree when and where you want, 24/7 from the nation’s leading colleges and universities: Explore Online RN to BSN Degree Programs.

Kaplan University

Campus

Advance your career and get the distinct competitive advantage you need with an online degree from Kaplan University. And do it without missing a day of work.

Programs:

• RN to BS in Nursing
• MS in Nursing
• RN to MS in Nursing

Campus Locations:

Fort Lauderdale

University of Phoenix

Campus

As the largest private university in North America, University of Phoenix has more than 200 locations, and is available online in most countries around the world. Whether you're seeking a college degree at an associate's, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral level, we can help you reach your academic goal—and sooner than you might think.

Programs:

• RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
• MS in Nursing/Family Nurse Practitioner
• BS in Nursing (RN Required)

Campus Locations:

Online
Phoenix
Ontario
Los Angeles
Tucson
Costa Mesa
Pasadena
Sacramento
Beachwood
Killeen
Irving
Miami
Fairfield
Henderson
Mesa
St. Louis
Ann Arbor
Elk Grove
Tampa
Jacksonville
Daytona Beach
San Diego
Temple Terrace
Las Vegas
Nashville
Clinton Township
Sugar Land
Murrieta
Livermore
Salida
Roseville
Aurora
Arlington
East Lansing
Lathrop
San Jose
Fort Lauderdale
Maitland
Westlake
St Louis Park
San Francisco
Livonia
San Antonio
Fairfax
Clearwater
Orlando
Troy
Southfield
Lone Tree
Houston
Oakland
Reston
Saint Louis
Flint
Chandler
Hurst
Lancaster
Diamond Bar
Littleton
Dallas
Hollywood
Saint Paul
Gardena
Woodland Hills
Independence
Spring
Bakersfield
Baton Rouge
Westminster
Palm Beach Gardens
Sarasota
Plantation
Fresno
Grand Rapids
Rancho Cordova
Manassas
Portage
Palm Desert

Liberty University

Campus

We keep our tuition affordable because it is an integral part of the overall mission for our university. The vision of our Chancellor, Jerry Falwell Jr., is to keep Liberty's Distance Learning Program affordable so as many individuals as possible can experience a Christ-centered education and become equipped for excellence, professionally as well as spiritually.

Programs:

• BS in Nursing (RN to BSN)

Campus Locations:

Lynchburg

South University Online

Campus

South University enjoys a long-standing tradition of excellence in education and personalized student attention. Enjoy the convenience of earning your bachelor's degree entirely online.

Programs:

• Nursing (BSN)

Campus Locations:

Savannah

Nebraska Methodist College

Online

Advance your nursing career online with Nebraska Methodist College. Our online programs include Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Registered Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing, and Master of Science in Nursing.

Programs:

• RN to BSN
• MSN Executive
• RN to MSN Executive

Fortis Institute

Campus

Looking to prepare for your dream career? Fortis Institute can give you the skills and training you need to succeed in the fast-growing and high-demand healthcare field. * Programs vary by location * Please contact each individual campus for accreditation information * Fortis Institute - Indianapolis advertising code is AC-0163.

Programs:

• Accelerated BSN
• PN RN Associate Degree Bridge Program
• Associate Degree in Nursing

Campus Locations:

Miami
Largo
Nashville
Salt Lake City
Richmond
Dayton
Tampa
Indianapolis
Cuyahoga Falls
Westerville
Pensacola
Erie
Ravenna
Phoenix
Birmingham
Cincinnati
Scranton
Smyrna

West Coast University

Campus

Achieve your educational and professional goals with help from West Coast University. We offer accelerated Health Care Administration degrees designed for working adults like you.

Programs:

• Bachelor Degree in Nursing (RN to BSN)
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree program

Campus Locations:

Los Angeles
Dallas
Ontario
Anaheim

Saint Peter's College

Online

Saint Peter's College has prepared its students for academic excellence and professional success for over one hundred years. Our dedicated faculty and staff are committed to providing each student with the opportunity for educational and spiritual enrichment. That same commitment to individual support is now available to learners everywhere via the new online degree programs offered by the College.

Programs:

• RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Chamberlain College of Nursing

Campus

Take the first step toward advancing your nursing career. Chamberlain College of Nursing offers a highly respected degree coupled with clinical learning experience in your local area.

Programs:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)

Campus Locations:

Addison

American Sentinel University Online

Online

Advance your career with the right online degree. ACCIS offers self-paced, real-world programs in Computer Science, Information Systems, Management Information Systems, and Business Administration.

Programs:

• RN to BS Nursing
• RN to MS Nursing
• MS Nursing - Case Management

Colorado Christian University

Campus

With a heritage dating back to 1914, Colorado Christian University is committed to offering a complete education that develops students intellectually, professionally, and spiritually. As the only member of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities located in the mainline Rocky Mountains region, and just a few minutes from downtown Denver, CCU is uniquely positioned to offer students a distinctive variety of educational opportunities and experiences. CCU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, and offers both undergraduate and graduate programs designed to equip students to become leaders in their careers, communities, families, and in the world. CCU students are enrolled at the main campus near Denver and at satellite locations throughout Colorado.

Programs:

• RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
• Nursing: B.S. Nursing (BSN)

Campus Locations:

Colorado Springs
Englewood
Denver
Sterling
Grand Junction

University of Maine- Fort Kent

Campus

Get your career on track with University of Maine-Fort Kent. We offer associate and bachelor's degree programs in a wide variety of career fields.

Programs:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)

Campus Locations:

Fort Kent

The College of St. Scholastica

Campus

Give your career a boost with College of St. Scholastica. We offer an online/on-campus master's in information technology leadership program and an online RN to BSN program.

Programs:

• RN to BSN Degree Completion Program (Online)

Campus Locations:

Duluth

South University - Campus

Campus

With over 100 years of educational excellence, South University can give you the outstanding instruction and personalized attention you need to prepare for the real world. We offer a variety of degree programs which can be earned online or at one of our five campus locations. Options include Business Administration, Information Technology, Nursing, Criminal Justice, and more.

Programs:

• Nursing (RN-BSN)
• Nursing (RN-MSN)
• Nurse Educator (MS)

Campus Locations:

Columbia
Glen Allen
Montgomery
Tampa
Virginia Beach
West Palm Beach
Savannah
Cleveland

Olivet Nazarene University - Graduate and Continuing Studies

Campus

Advance your career with Olivet Nazarene University - Graduate and Continuing Studies. We offer continuing education certificates and master's degrees in history, counseling, religion, business, education, and nursing, plus a Doctorate of Education in Ethical Leadership.

Programs:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing
• Master of Science in Nursing
• Certification - Family Nurse Practitioner

Campus Locations:

Bourbonnais