Bachelor of Science in Nursing RN to BSN Online Completion Program

An RN to BSN program is designed to help those who have an active nursing license and an associate degree or diploma in nursing earn their BSN degree in less time than it would take to earn the degree without nursing experience. Some RN to BSN online programs, including Walden’s, will give you the opportunity to transfer up to 75% of the credits you need for graduation, giving you a significant head start toward earning your degree. Walden also offers a competency-based option that lets you learn—and earn credits—at your own pace.

Thanks to online learning, earning your BSN degree and reaching your goals is more convenient than ever. An online nursing program allows you to complete your coursework from home and on a flexible schedule. That means you can continue to work full time while you further your education. These advantages have made online nursing programs popular among working professionals.

When it comes to finding a high-quality nursing program, you should look for accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). CCNE is a national accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. CCNE accreditation signifies that a program has met rigorous academic and professional standards. CCNE accreditation also ensures the quality and integrity of baccalaureate, graduate, and residency programs in nursing. Walden’s online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-BSN) Completion Program has received this accreditation.

The U.S. healthcare system is massive, with every region in the country needing qualified healthcare professionals. And healthcare delivery is becoming more complicated and specialized every day. In order to have the knowledge base to keep up with modern medical technology; take advantage of electronic medical records; and treat patients in the most effective, efficient, and culturally appropriate ways, nurses need education that goes beyond registered nurse (RN) training. Achieving higher levels of education—like earning your BSN degree at Walden—can better prepare you to meet the increased demand for care and improve the quality of healthcare delivery as the profession continues to transform.

When you earn a BSN degree, you’ll gain advanced professional skills. For example, a bachelor’s in nursing program can help you learn how to protect, promote, and optimize an individual’s health and abilities. You’ll discover how to prevent illness and injury, facilitate healing, and help alleviate suffering. In addition, you will study relevant research in support of improved practice and patient outcomes. You’ll also gain the knowledge to advocate for the care of individuals, families, groups, communities, or populations.

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is becoming the degree preferred by employers seeking skilled nurses and is often required to apply to a master’s program in nursing. A BSN degree program is designed to enhance a registered nurse’s education and provide the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the evolving demands of healthcare delivery. A bachelor’s in nursing program better prepares registered nurses (RNs) to provide quality care by going beyond basic clinical care skills and expanding the curriculum to include communication, leadership, and critical thinking skills.

A registered nurse (RN) is a professional who has completed the necessary education requirements, such as an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or nursing diploma program, and passed the NCLEX-RN exam for licensure. A nurse with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is an RN who has completed a bachelor’s degree program, which typically takes four years. Nurses who start their career with a diploma or an ADN can continue their education with an online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-BSN) Completion Program or may decide to advance their education by enrolling in an RN to MSN program. Both of these degree program options are offered by Walden University.

Although requirements vary from program to program, a BSN can help prepare you to enter medical school, since some of the course load may be similar. According to the Association of American Medical Colleges, before applying to medical school, students should complete the Medical College Admission Test® (MCAT^®) and demonstrate that they can handle rigorous coursework. Some schools require applicants to complete premedical course requirements while others have moved to competency-based admissions. It is important to review the specific requirements for each school.

In order to become a nurse practitioner, you need to earn a master’s degree in nursing with an NP specialization that aligns with your passions and career goals. Most RNs will earn a BSN degree prior to pursuing an MSN. For RNs interested in a streamlined path from a bachelor’s to a master’s degree in nursing, Walden offers an RN-BSN-Accelerate Into Master’s (AIM) track. This option allows you to earn credits toward a master’s degree while earning your bachelor’s in nursing. Another option is the RN to MSN track in Walden’s Master of Science in Nursing program, which offers an accelerated degree path for registered nurses who don’t have a BSN or a bachelor’s degree in another discipline.

Time to completion for Walden University’s online Bachelor of Science in Nursing Completion Program (RN-BSN) will vary from student to student based on a number of factors, including whether you choose a course-based or competency-based format. Walden’s Tempo Learning® format, which features a subscription model, offers students the most control over time and cost. Walden Enrollment Specialists can help you determine a degree completion time frame based on your individual circumstances.