A bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) may provide a path to professional advancement, personal fulfillment, and improved patient outcomes.
This degree emphasizes evidence-based practice and helps registered nurses (RNs) better understand and navigate the complexities of the modern healthcare system. It draws on advanced research and respected frameworks, such as nursing models of care.
There are many ways to earn a BSN, with students often selecting programs according to their schedules and their long-term career plans. There is no ‘right’ approach for every RN as this decision is highly individual.
Some pursue a BSN before taking the NCLEX and getting licensed. Others prefer a phased approach, consisting of earning an associate degree in nursing (ADN), passing the NCLEX to become licensed, and later completing advanced coursework to obtain a BSN.
If you are ready to advance in your nursing career but need a degree to take the next step, you may be wondering, “What is an RN to BSN program?” This type of program offers many compelling benefits, but it is important to fully understand what it involves and who, exactly, it targets. Keep reading to learn more about this approach to earning a BSN.
What is an RN to BSN Program?
An RN to BSN program is designed for registered nurses who want to advance their education and career opportunities. Often called a bridge program, it connects the clinically focused ADN with the broader scope of a bachelor’s degree in nursing. Keep in mind that higher-level bachelor’s courses delve more into the theoretical aspects of modern nursing while also touching on leadership opportunities.
The RN to BSN qualifies as a post-licensure program, available to nurses who have already passed the NCLEX exam and who have become registered nurses.
The influence of evidence-based care in nursing education cannot be overstated. Across BSN programs, students engage in in-depth discussions, simulations, and other interactive learning opportunities to develop critical thinking skills and understand how to apply them in real-world situations. These evidence-based approaches help RNs navigate complex challenges with confidence.
The Evolution of Nursing Education in the United States
Nursing education has changed considerably in the last few decades, shifting from basic insights into patient care to in-depth clinical training and, eventually, an evidence-based approach that draws on cutting-edge research and advanced models of care.
At one time, the expected path for aspiring nurses largely involved hospital-based diploma programs, which allowed nurses to gain hands-on experience. These programs were valuable, but as the scope of nursing continued to expand, college-based programs began to take over, offering more of a theoretical approach while still promoting hands-on experience.
The evolution of nursing education became especially evident by 2010 when the Institute of Medicine (IOM) released a report revealing a clear intention to promote BSN training. This included the ambitious goal of ensuring that 80 percent of nurses held their bachelor’s by 2020.
While this goal was not fully realized, the nursing profession appears to have come close. Data highlighted by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) suggest that, as of 2022, nearly 72 percent of the “RN workforce earned a baccalaureate or higher degree as their highest level of nursing education.”
Defining the RN to BSN Pathway
The RN to BSN pathway encourages today’s students to help fulfill goals established by IOM, which are still deemed important across the scope of the healthcare sector. However, this pursuit can seem complex because a lot depends on where and how you earned your ADN.
Many colleges offer accelerated programs, which make it possible to transfer up to 90 credits. With sufficient transfer credits, the RN to BSN bridge could potentially be completed in just 14 months.
Pathways may be designated based on personal preferences regarding term length and specialization. Top options include:
- Term-based.Reflecting a ‘traditional’ approach to the college experience, term-based nursing programs involve fixed academic schedules, which provide plenty of structure. Course lengths may vary by institution, with some programs offering accelerated options.
- Competency-based. This flexible format allows students to progress at their own pace by demonstrating mastery of course material rather than following a set schedule. This approach is ideal for experienced nurses who want to accelerate their studies based on prior knowledge and skills.
The Importance of a BSN in Today’s Healthcare Environment
The BSN plays a fundamental role in preparing nurses to navigate an increasingly complex and demanding work environment. This also represents an exciting opportunity, which is the chance to make a difference while taking on an expanded range of opportunities.
Today’s well-trained nurses are increasingly regarded as playing a central role in boosting health delivery and patient outcomes while also helping to reduce the cost of care. The BSN helps nurses live up to these high expectations.
We will touch on employer preferences in more detail below, but it is also important to acknowledge the influence of state-based legislation. In New York, for instance, the BSN in 10 program required ADN-trained nurses to obtain their bachelor’s degree within ten years of entering the nursing workforce. While New York is the clear pioneer in this regard, other states may follow suit.
Meeting the Expectations of Modern Healthcare Employers
While RNs trained at the associate’s level should have no trouble finding work, this can get more complicated as nurses seek to specialize. Increasingly, employers demonstrate a preference for BSN-trained nurses, with bachelor’s degrees often mentioned in job listings. In some specialties, BSN training is outright required.
Remarkably, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) 2023 New Graduate Employment Data reveals that nearly 70 percent of employers show a strong preference for hiring nurses trained at the BSN level. These preferences may explain why, according to AACN data, job placement rates are far higher for BSN graduates.
Enhancing Patient Care Through Advanced Education
Research shows that patient outcomes improve considerably when a significant share of the nursing workforce is trained at the bachelor’s level. In one noteworthy study, patients who received care primarily from nurses trained at the BSN level were less likely to be readmitted. Similarly, research demonstrated better outcomes for cardiac patients cared for by BSN-trained nurses.
While many factors may explain why advanced education leads to a higher quality of care, there is no denying the value of developing a deeper understanding of health assessments and case management. These ensure that nurses identify potential issues early on and continue to monitor them appropriately to limit bigger problems down the road.
Furthermore, BSN programs promote advanced critical thinking skills, which, in turn, help nurses draw on key research and theories to make split-second decisions in high-pressure scenarios. Practice learning experiences and simulations help bridge the gap between theory and practice so that nurses are prepared to tackle difficult situations (and embrace powerful opportunities) as they advance in their careers.
Key Benefits of Pursuing an RN to BSN Program
A BSN can be advantageous no matter how it is earned, but different pathways appeal to different students. Many like the idea of integrating theoretical frameworks with their own real-world experience. This can make difficult concepts easier to understand and make them feel more personally and professionally relevant.
Beyond this, it is worth noting that nurses can immediately apply their new insights in the workforce. After all, it is common to remain employed as an RN while completing BSN coursework. Other advantages include:
Broadening Your Nursing Skills and Knowledge
ADN programs cover nursing fundamentals like anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology but mainly focus on clinical skills. The aim is to prepare students to work as RNs upon graduation.
BSN programs offer an expanded, more holistic approach, including a deeper dive into nursing research, community health nursing, and even strategic planning.
Nurses can leverage these expanded skills to achieve many improvements in the workplace, such as more efficient care, improved patient advocacy, and better integration of cutting-edge research.
Immersive, engaging experiences boost confidence in RNs. Earning a BSN helps them feel more prepared to address diverse healthcare challenges.
Unlocking Opportunities for Career Advancement
While both ADN-trained and BSN-trained nurses are eligible for a variety of RN roles, many employers express a preference for BSN-prepared nurses, particularly for leadership, specialty, and advancement opportunities. According to AACN findings, there is a growing demand for baccalaureate-educated nurses in the workforce. As a result, BSN-trained nurses may have access to a broader range of career options and potential for professional growth.
Online vs. Traditional RN to BSN Programs
RN to BSN programs take many forms, accommodating numerous students through various platforms, pathways, and curricula. It is important to evaluate these options thoroughly prior to applying and enrolling, as the program format can have a huge impact on the BSN experience.
First, consider whether you might be better suited to a ‘traditional’ in-person program or whether, based on your location and schedule, online coursework may be preferable.
Flexibility and Accessibility of Online Learning
Online programs appeal greatly to working students, who may otherwise struggle to balance in-person class sessions with workplace obligations. Nurses who work shifts, in particular, are likely to seek out flexible arrangements for their coursework, especially given the often irregular nature of their work schedules. Flexible courses can also be helpful for nurses based in varied geographic locations.
The Value of On-Campus Interactions and Networking
While today’s advanced platforms bring immersive opportunities to online learning, some students still prefer the immersive nature of in-person learning. On-campus environments may feel more personable, with students getting to know one another on a deeper level. This can be valuable from a networking perspective, with strong connections facilitating lifelong connections.
Though these benefits can be replicated in many online programs, this may take added effort above and beyond what is required for on-campus networking. It is certainly possible, however, and online students who engage actively with their coursework should still be able to develop plenty of valuable nursing contacts.
Admission Requirements and How to Prepare
Now that you know what RN to BSN programs involve and how you can benefit from earning your bachelor’s, you should be ready to take the next step: finding reputable programs and applying.
Be sure to examine admission requirements, as these can vary somewhat between programs. You may need to gather or submit information verifying that you are not only eligible for the program but also a solid fit.
Common Prerequisites and Credentials Needed
At minimum, every RN to BSN applicant should meet a few basic requirements: graduating with an ADN, passing the NCLEX exam, and gaining licensure as a registered nurse.
Once admitted, students will need to complete a few basic prerequisites to qualify for advanced coursework. Core courses exploring nursing theories and principles should set students up for success with the BSN’s overarching focus on evidence-based practice.
If you want to earn your BSN but have yet to become an RN, fear not. Instead of applying for the RN to BSN program, you can apply for a pre-licensure BSN, which may also be an excellent option for advancing your career.
Tips for a Successful Application Process
While many RN to BSN programs maintain easy-to-navigate admissions processes, it is still important to be strategic about applying. This is a great chance to reveal your success as an RN and your commitment to continuing education. Follow these suggestions to navigate the application process with ease:
- Adjust your resume. RN-to-BSN admissions typically require resumes that reflect previous nursing experience. If necessary, adjust your resume to highlight recent RN successes, and be sure to double-check for errors or formatting issues.
- Be mindful of deadlines.Even streamlined applications take some time to complete, as you must gather proof that you have met basic thresholds such as earning your ADN or passing the NCLEX. When in doubt, get started early to ensure that you have plenty of time. and avoid feeling rushed or stressed.
Exploring the Curriculum of RN to BSN Programs
Once your application is approved, you should be ready to dive into fascinating and meaningful nursing coursework. Ideally, you will have examined curricula carefully prior to applying, as you will want to feel confident that your program will cover any existing skill gaps while also providing a deep dive into nursing leadership and evidence-based practice.
While curricula can vary somewhat between programs, the typical RN to BSN emphasizes these essentials:
Core Courses and Specialized Nursing Subjects
Core courses in BSN programs cover a lot of ground but with a clear intention of familiarizing students with evidence-based practice. These courses provide a deep dive into the nuances of modern healthcare delivery systems. Through foundational courses, nurses also learn about management strategies, nursing assessments, and case management.
While many nurses enter RN to BSN programs in hopes of pursuing nursing specialties, curricula often focus on widely applicable theories and concepts that can prove impactful across specialties. In case management courses, nurses have the opportunity to tailor their projects around preferred patient populations.
Integrating Clinical Experiences With Academic Learning
One of the main prerogatives of the BSN is to bridge the gap between nursing research and clinical practice. This can be achieved not only through immersive learning opportunities but also through an abundance of self-reflection.
BSN capstone courses help nurses reflect on academic insights, observe their application in healthcare, and use these lessons to enhance workplace performance.
Career Pathways After Completing an RN to BSN Program
While many nurses remain RNs upon graduating from BSN programs, they may enjoy access to a wider range of specialties and even leadership roles. While some may uncover compelling opportunities through BSN coursework, many begin to explore specialized options prior to enrolling. This proactive approach makes it easier to contextualize concepts covered through BSN coursework. As you prepare for a bright future in the vast nursing field, be mindful of these opportunities:
Traditional and Emerging Roles for BSN-Prepared Nurses
Many BSN-prepared nurses continue to work as RNs long after they graduate. Where they work, however, may differ, with BSN-trained nurses often finding it easier to score specialized positions that they find deeply compelling. Many use this opportunity to explore high-impact specialties or work with specific patient populations. Those pursuing advanced roles, such as psychiatric mental health nursing or becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), typically requires additional education, training, examinations, and experience beyond the BSN.
Examples of emerging roles worth exploring include:
- Nursing informatics
- Telehealth nurses
- Clinical nurse leaders
- Genetics nurses
Continuing Education and Advanced Degrees
Earning a BSN can provide a solid step on the pathway to graduate-level degrees, which can unlock an even wider variety of leadership opportunities.
Many BSN graduates go on to pursue a master of science in nursing (MSN), which opens the door to advanced roles like nurse practitioner (NP). Other advanced degrees worth exploring include the doctor of nursing practice (DNP) and the PhD in nursing.
Financial Considerations and Support
Upfront costs must be considered. These may include everything from tuition and fees to housing or transportation. Online courses can help limit the housing and transit expenses associated with in-person programs.
Understanding Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid Options
Aspiring RN to BSN students often find it difficult to understand tuition and determine how much they will actually pay to complete their BSN. This confusion stems from the different tuition arrangements, which relate to the previously described pathways.
Because competency-based programs can involve such a broad range of courses taken simultaneously, payments may be determined on a per-semester basis, acting as a lump sum rather than being charged per credit. Traditional programs are more likely to charge a specific tuition rate per credit hour.
Be mindful of additional fees, which go above and beyond tuition to account for specific materials or services. For example, online courses often assess fees for electronic materials, which relate to electronic textbooks, presentations, and other materials collected by nursing faculty members.
Pathway-specific fees are also likely. Competency-based programs may assess higher resource fees, while traditional cost-per-credit programs may call for testing or prior learning assessment fees.
Scholarships and Grants Specifically for Nursing Students
Some students may need additional financial support. Financial aid advisors can provide valuable details about available scholarship and grant programs and other financial aid opportunities.
A little extra research could unveil several scholarship or grant opportunities, including many specifically developed with nursing students in mind. The Yes You CANN scholarship, particularly, can be a compelling option for RNs. Designed for those who have earned RN licensure within the past two years, this $2,500 scholarship is definitely worth exploring.
Advance Your Nursing Education With Post
Ready to take the next step in your nursing career? Enhance your knowledge and skill set by enrolling in Post’s Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) program. Get in touch to learn more about this exciting opportunity.
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