RN to BSN online programs provide a convenient way for RNs to advance their careers. They are flexible and designed to work around your busy schedule.
A bachelor’s degree adds more profound theoretical and policy knowledge to your nursing skills. You will gain new abilities and become more valuable to your employer.
Determine Your Goals
As a nurse, you are already used to working around patients’ needs and schedules. However, a bachelor’s degree in nursing can further expand your professional career opportunities and prepare you for higher-level nursing positions.
When choosing an online RN to BSN program, keeping your goals in mind is essential. For example, if you want to pursue advanced practice nursing or leadership roles in healthcare, you will need a bachelor’s of science in nursing (BSN).
It’s also essential to ensure your chosen program is accredited, as this will ensure that it meets the highest educational standards and can be transferred to other colleges or graduate programs. Additionally, look for a university that offers many transfer credits to help you accelerate your degree. Finally, finding some accelerated BSN programs online that offer flexible course scheduling to accommodate your work and personal obligations is a good idea. This will help you stay on track and be successful.
Research Programs
RN to BSN programs at La Salle University are available in various formats, but you should always look for a program accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). This ensures the quality and rigor of the nursing coursework.
Some online RN to BSN programs require you to attend courses at set times and dates, while others offer more flexibility. Depending on your schedule and responsibilities, you may also have the option of attending full or part-time.
Another factor to consider is whether the program requires prerequisites, which can increase your time and cost of earning a bachelor’s degree. You should find this information on the university’s website or by contacting the school directly. It’s also a good idea to see what other students have said about their experience with the program. Look for a discussion forum or alums directory to read about their experiences and get a feel for the school.
Decide on a College
The school you attend will significantly impact the success of your career and the quality of your degree. It’s essential to choose an accredited college. This ensures that your degree meets the high standards expected by government agencies, employers, and other graduate schools you may apply to.
It would help if you also considered whether an online RN to BSN program would work with your current lifestyle and schedule. If you need to travel to campus regularly to attend classes, an on-campus program may be better suited to your needs.
Finally, it would help if you decided how you’ll pay for your RN to BSN program. Many options are available, including grants, scholarships, and student loans. You should fill out the FAFSA each year to determine your eligibility for federal aid, which can reduce your overall costs. Be sure to research the financial aid office at any potential colleges you’re considering. Many have helpful advisors who can assist you with the process.
Apply
If you want to advance in nursing, a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree is required. Employers and graduate programs consider a BSN more advanced, and it opens doors to leadership positions and more career opportunities.
Several online RN to BSN programs from regionally accredited colleges and universities offer flexible, affordable options for working nurses. Accreditation from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) is essential when choosing a program.
Several schools in New York have RN to BSN programs open to in-state and out-of-state students. For example, the University of Buffalo’s highly ranked RN to BSN online program has a competitive admission GPA requirement and allows you to transfer 29 credits. The school also offers an accelerated RN to BS-MS path to help you earn two degrees quickly. CUNY also has an RN to MSN pathway that can be completed online.