Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing / Master of Science in Nursing (Dual Degree)
Pursue Two Nursing Degrees with an RN to BSN/MSN Program Online!
The online Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing/Master of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN/MSN) from Post University was designed to help registered nurses achieve their academic goals.
Instead of pursuing a bachelor’s in nursing now and waiting to pursue a master’s later, this dual-degree RN to BSN/MSN program helps you maintain your educational momentum from day one. As you work toward finishing your bachelor’s studies, you will move right into graduate studies in the BSN to MSN phase with your choice of five skill-building specializations.
Plus, with the online RN to MSN program, you could be closer to earning your BSN and your MSN than you think. Your RN license plus an Associate of Science in Nursing or Associate Degree in Nursing could be considered for up to 90 hours of transfer credit toward your dual-degree program.
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) Programmatic Accreditation
The baccalaureate degree program in nursing and master’s degree program in nursing at Post University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202.887.6791.
The RN to BSN to MSN Program at a Glance
Flexible Online Classes
Monthly Start Dates
57 Nursing-Specific Credit Hours
24- to 42-Month Program
Individualized Practice Experiences
Practice-Focused Curriculum for Real-World Skills
Coursework for your online RN to MSN program is designed to help you build the foundation of insights and practical skills necessary to:
- Pursue leadership roles on multidisciplinary teams within healthcare organizations
- Make and prioritize nursing diagnoses by integrating methods of research and scholarship
- Design care for individuals, groups, and communities
- Examine the problems of contemporary health and illness
- Help shape health policies that affect both individual and community health
- Work toward creating quality patient outcomes
- Use theoretical knowledge to guide advanced nursing practice
MSN Specializations
As you complete nursing courses for your BSN, you will customize your graduate-level studies with one of these relevant MSN specializations:
Your RN to BSN to MSN on Your Terms
To provide you with extra educational flexibility and choice, we offer two different tracks in our online RN to MSN bridge program: Term Based and SIMPath® (Competency Based).
Term Based (All Specializations)
- 100% online classes
- 8-week terms
- Monthly class start dates
- Consistent due dates
- Take one class at a time
SIMPath® (Non-NP Specializations Only)
- 100% online classes
- 16-week semesters
- Monthly class start dates
- Self-paced format
- Enroll in as many courses as your schedule permits*
*Students may add additional courses through the twelfth (12th) week of the term. Any courses that remain unfinished must be repeated. Students who choose the SIMPath® option could complete their program in as little as two semesters.
Curriculum, Course Descriptions, & Program Outcomes
Please see the University Catalog for the online RN to BSN to MSN program’s full curriculum with course descriptions and program outcomes.
RN to BSN to MSN Online Admissions Requirements
View the full list of the Nursing Admissions Requirements
Our admissions team is available to walk you through the application process and answer any questions on the RN to BSN to MSN program requirements. Contact us to learn more!
Tuition & Payment Options
View the Tuition and Fees section for information for the online RN to BSN to MSN degree program costs.
We offer several funding options as you pursue your education. Please see the Scholarships and Other Ways to Save section to learn more about our:
- External Scholarships
- Nursing Tuition Reductions
- Education Partnership Program Tuition Reduction
- Post Eagle Program (Military)
- Payment Plans
- And more!
“I have two young kids and have been working during a pandemic in critical care, and I just appreciate that Post University is so great about understanding that working adults in school have many responsibilities.”
FAQs
Pursuing your RN to BSN/MSN dual degree in nursing online is a big step. You probably have some questions. We have answers.
Can I pursue a BSN and MSN in the same program?
Yes, nursing students can pursue both a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) concurrently or sequentially. This is often referred to as an accelerated or bridge program. This program is designed for registered nurses who wish to advance their education to the graduate level. This integrated program streamlines the educational process, allowing students to save time and sometimes even money by completing both degrees in a shorter timeframe than if pursued separately.
What is RN to MSN?
RN to MSN (Registered Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing) is a specialized program designed for registered nurses (RNs) who hold an associate degree in nursing or a nursing diploma and wish to advance their education to the graduate level. This program allows RNs to bridge the gap between their current qualifications and a master’s degree in nursing by combining undergraduate and graduate coursework. This program caters to the needs of working professionals, offering flexible scheduling options with online classes and part-time study to accommodate busy work schedules.
What is a dual degree nursing program?
A dual degree nursing program is an academic pathway that allows students to earn two degrees simultaneously; a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). This integrated approach combines undergraduate and graduate coursework, enabling students to graduate with both degrees in a shorter timeframe compared to pursuing each degree separately.
What is the difference between a BSN and MSN?
The main difference between a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) lies in their educational level and scope of practice. A BSN is an undergraduate degree that provides foundational knowledge and skills in nursing practice, while an MSN is a graduate-level degree that offers advanced training in specialized areas of nursing practice, such as nurse practitioner or nurse educator. BSN-prepared nurses typically work in entry-level nursing positions, whereas MSN-prepared nurses could pursue advanced practice roles, leadership positions, and specialized areas of nursing. Additionally, MSN programs often require a BSN as a prerequisite for admission.
Should I choose RN to BSN or RN to MSN?
Choosing between an RN to BSN or RN to MSN program depends on your career goals and timeline. If you aim to quickly attain a bachelor’s degree and enter the workforce, an RN to BSN program may be suitable, offering essential skills and eligibility for a wider range of nursing positions. Conversely, if you aspire to advanced practice roles or leadership positions, pursuing an RN to MSN program can streamline your education, allowing you to achieve both degrees simultaneously and potentially saving time and effort in the long run. Consider your desired career trajectory, personal circumstances, and the specific requirements of each program to make an informed decision. Speak with an admissions advisor to learn more about each program and which is right for you.
How long does an RN to MSN take?
The duration of an RN to MSN program can vary depending on factors such as program structure, enrollment status, and individual progress. Part-time options may extend the timeline, allowing students to balance their studies with work or other commitments. Additionally, prior coursework, transfer credits, and any required prerequisite courses can impact the overall length of the program. At Post University, the online RN to MSN program typically takes 24- to 42 months to complete. We offer both term-based and competency-based (self-paced) options that could impact the length it takes to complete the program.
Pursue Your Online RN to BSN to MSN at Post!
At Post University, we are focused on your success, in and out of the classroom. A student success advisor will work with you one-on-one to answer your questions and help you address challenges throughout the online RN to MSN program. We are here to help you achieve your educational and career goals.
Looking for a way to make a bigger difference for your future and your patients? Let us help. Contact us to learn more about our online RN to MSN bridge program.
Related Programs
Note: This program is not designed to fulfill the educational requirements for any licensure or certification. Post University does not speak on behalf of any licensing board or body but does assist students in understanding licensure requirements.