RN to BSN Programs

Career Spotlights

Become a Registered Nurse (RN)

Even in a sluggish economy, registered nurses are always in demand. Learn how to launch your RN career today in this six-step guide....

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Earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) can qualify you to enter the world of nursing as a registered nurse (RN). Here, find the steps it takes to become a BSN....

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Registered nurses (RN) with an associate's degree in nursing (ADN) or diploma may want to consider earning a bachelor's of science in nursing (BSN). Transitioning from ADN to BSN can mean salary and career advancement, as well as a broader-based education.

Are RN to BSN Programs Worthwhile?

For many RNs, going back to school means making significant time and financial commitments, often at the cost of personal time and money. Is making the move from RN to BSN worth it? Many believe it is. Before enrolling in a nursing program, one should consider the benefits to earning a BSN degree:

What It Takes to Become a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Student

Most RN to BSN programs require that students be licensed RNs with an ADN or state-approved diploma. Other admission requirements vary depending on the competitiveness of the program, but many programs require a grade-point average of around 2.5 or better. Most programs enable nurses to transfer credit hours from previous nursing coursework as long as a passing grade of at least a C is earned.

Typical Program Requirements

While many programs require an average of around 120 credit hours, this number varies greatly depending on the program. When individuals become BSN students they are given the opportunity to transfer credits from previous nursing coursework--usually up to around half of the credit hours required for the degree. Some programs also offer credits based on one's experience working as an RN.

Accelerated or "fast-track" RN to BSN programs expedite the time to degree, but most RN to BSN programs take between one and two years to complete.

RN to BSN Coursework

RN to BSN coursework usually combines general education requirements (classes in the liberal arts and humanities, for example) with nursing-specific classes. Nursing courses may include:

• Physical assessment
• Research in nursing
• Leadership in nursing practice
• Community health nursing
• Contemporary issues in nursing

Furthermore, RN to BSN degrees include a clinical component that can be fulfilled in non-hospital settings, such as community health centers, hospice organizations, and advanced care facilities.

BSN Job Outlook

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for nurses with a BSN is excellent. From 2008 to 2018, employment of registered nurses is projected to grow by 22 percent. The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that RNs with bachelor's degrees are likely to have better job prospects than those without this degree.