Healthcare workers are more in-demand now than ever. If you're hoping to pursue a career as a registered nurse (RN), you'll want to consider aBSN degree.
Many RNs begin their nursing careers after completing a two-year associate degree in nursing (ADN). Schools typically develop RN-to-BSN programs to meet the academic and training needs of ADN-trained RNs and graduates of non-nursing bachelor's programs who wish to transition to a nursing career. An online RN nursing program can offer flexibility for you to continue developing clinical experience and balance other responsibilities.
According to theBureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), BSN-trained RNs earned a median salary of $73,300 in 2019. Tuition for a RN-to-BSN program varies between $5,000 and $20,000. Nurses who complete an RN-to-BSN program enter a professional arena with plenty of financial and professional opportunities.
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The Top 10 Affordable Online RN-to-BSN Programs
Degree Requirements
Eligible applicants for an RN-to-BSN program must hold a valid and unencumbered RN license. Many programs also require the completion of general education courses and prerequisite coursework in microbiology, anatomy and physiology, chemistry, and introductory statistics. Furthermore, those eligible applicants with an ADN or a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field must hold their degree from an accredited institution. Typically a GPA of at least 2.5 is required as well.
Graduation requirements for RN-to-BSN programs will vary by the school and program you enroll in. However, most RN-to-BSN programs require degree candidates to complete a capstone project or pass a comprehensive exam to graduate. Schools also often require enrollees to maintain a minimum GPA throughout the RN-to-BSN program.
Courses in a RN-to-BSN Program
Courses for RN-to-BSN programs cover a variety of subjects. Each school follows a curriculum that supports specific academic goals. In addition, programs that offer concentrations often include specialized classes that other schools do not typically offer.
Most RN-to-BSN programs offer similar foundation classes that give students the chance to develop the skills and knowledge needed to begin their nursing practice. See below for five common classes in RN-to-BSN programs.
Career Path for a BSN Degree
Most ADN programs prepare graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN. They focus on nursing skill acquisition and typically offer classes with direct practice applications. A BSN program also prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN and includes practiced-focused coursework.
A BSN program also often provides a broader educational perspective by offering interdisciplinary classes, leadership courses, and research opportunities. Most BSN programs prepare graduates for nursing practice as well as postgraduate study. BSN graduates can expect to work in higher administrative positions that oversee nursing programs and patient relations.
As the complexity of the U.S. healthcare system continues to increase, nurses enjoy an expanded role in direct patient care and the delivery of services in a variety of medical settings. And, as healthcare increasingly emphasizes preventive and primary care, nurses need well-developed assessment and diagnostic skills. A well-crafted BSN program enables students to develop these critical skills in today's healthcare environment.
Job Outlook & Salary
Jobs in nursing typically have an average annual wage between $70,000 and $90,000, according to the BLS. Registered nurses who work in general medical and surgical hospitals average about $81,680 per year. An RN at an outpatient care center makes $89,300. On the lower end, nurses employed at physicians offices average an annual salary of $71,660.
The RN field is expected to grow faster than average, with a 7% growth rate expected through 2029.
Certifications and Licensure for RN-to-BSN Students
All states require nurses to earn licensure before practicing. Certification indicates that the holder possesses specialized skills or knowledge in a specific nursing field. Certain nursing fields prefer candidates to earn certification in their specific practice arena. See below for three certifications nurses can pursue.
AIDS Certified Registered Nurse
Certified Pediatric Nurse
Oncology Certified Nurse
Related Degrees
If you're passionate about healthcare and helping others, there are a variety of other degrees you can pursue outside of an RN-to-BSN degree. While nursing is one of the most popular career choices, you can also specialize in other types of medicine and wellness.
Physician assistant
This degree prepares you to practice medicine. With it, you can diagnose, treat, and prescribe for general healthcare. You'll learn about anatomy, psychical diagnosis, pathophysiology, behavioral science, and medical ethics in this program.
Healthcare administration
If you prefer the idea of helping people in ways other than dealing with the actual nitty-gritty of human bodies, an administrative degree could be for you. In this program, you'll take courses in communication, economic, marketing, finance, and strategic management — all with a healthcare lens. Generally, graduates will take leadership roles in healthcare organizations.
Physical therapy
This degree will prepare students for careers in physical therapy. You'll take courses like anatomy, clinical practice, movement science, exercise physiology, and therapy & rehabilitation.
Scholarships & Financial Aid for RN-to-BSN Students
Most colleges and universities with BSN programs offer scholarship opportunities to their students. However, many nursing enrollees find assistance from other sources as well, including private organizations and healthcare companies. Some scholarship programs target specific nursing student populations, such as male nurses or learners beginning a second career in the field. See below for five scholarships available for nursing students.
Bridge Your Career: RN-to-BSN Scholarship
Who Can Apply: This program welcomes applicants enrolled in an accredited RN-to-BSN program with a 3.5 GPA or higher. Freshman applicants use their high school GPA. Applicants submit an essay (500-1,000 words) addressing the topic in the application.
Amount: $500
FHE Health "Hope for Healing" Scholarship
Who Can Apply: This program accepts applications from BSN and MSN students. Eligible applicants need a minimum 3.0 GPA and a declared academic focus in psychiatric nursing, addiction medicine, or mental and behavioral health. Eligible applicants with no college credits show a high school GPA of 3.5 or higher.
Amount: $5,000
The Foundation of the National Student Nurses' Association Career Mobility Scholarship
Who Can Apply: This funding opportunity accepts applications from students currently enrolled in an accredited nursing program (including an RN-to-BSN program). Eligible applicants show enrollment in at least six credits per semester. In addition, applicants show proof of financial need and involvement in nursing organizations or community health projects and activities.
Amount: Up to $7,500
Madeline Pickett (Halbert) Cogswell Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Administered by the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), this program accepts applications from students pursuing a nursing degree at an accredited institution. Applicants show proof of DAR membership or relationship to a DAR member in good standing.
Amount: $2,500
Nurses Make a Difference Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Eligible applicants show proof of enrollment in an accredited undergraduate nursing program with a 3.0 GPA or higher. High school graduates accepted to a nursing program can also apply. Applicants submit an essay (200-300 words) on the given topic at the time of application.
Amount: $1,000
