How RN to BSN Programs Can Help the U.S. Nursing Shortage

A nurse in scrubs in front of a laptop
Earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing can help RNs enhance their skills to meet the needs of the field.

As the baby boomer generation ages, more RNs reach retirement, and the U.S. places growing emphasis on preventive care, America is facing a looming nursing shortage that higher education is helping to address.

By 2033, the U.S. is facing a projected shortfall of more than 204,000 RNs.1 To meet this need, nursing schools are increasing capacity so that RNs can earn in-demand degrees.2 In one recent survey, nearly 70% of employers expressed a strong preference for Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program graduates.3

Online BSN programs, like the RN to BSN, give nurses an accessible option for pursuing this credential. From offering RNs a convenient way to pursue higher education to training nurses to meet the needs of an aging population, here are five ways online RN to BSN programs are contributing to efforts to respond to America’s nursing shortage.

  1. They provide a convenient path, making education more achievable for busy RNs.
    Nursing is a rewarding career, but it’s also a busy one. With the ability to attend classes from the comfort of home, online RN to BSN programs are designed to offer nurses flexibility as they balance their studies with work and family commitments. These online BSN degree programs offer rigorous academics, cutting-edge technologies, low teacher-to-student ratios, and much more, all without the need to travel to class.
  2. They meet RNs where they live.
    Many nurses are interested in RN to BSN programs but can’t pursue a BSN degree simply because a program isn’t available at a local brick-and-mortar institution. This can be especially relevant in rural areas. Online RN to BSN programs enable nurses, even those living in remote areas, to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing without the need to travel long distances to class or to move closer to a university.
  3. They help provide the qualifications nurses need to care for an aging population.
    By 2030, all baby boomers will be 65 or older.4 Since older adults are at a higher risk for chronic diseases,5 the U.S. will need nurses equipped with the skills to care for America’s aging population. Online RN to BSN programs offer a path for working nurses to advance their skills.
  4. They help nurses gain leadership skills for a rapidly changing field. 
    Online BSN degree programs provide nurses with a convenient way to develop knowledge and competencies relevant to leadership roles in a variety of inpatient and outpatient settings. Top online RN to BSN programs that offer well-rounded, relevant coursework to support nurses’ professional growth.
  5. They are associated with improved outcomes for patients. 
    Research shows that higher levels of nursing education yield improved patient outcomes.6 For example, one study found RNs who hold a bachelor’s degree in nursing were “significantly better prepared than associate degree nurses on 12 out of 16 areas related to quality and safety, including evidence-based practice, data analysis, and project implementation.”6

Earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing can help you deliver quality care and provide an academic foundation for future graduate-level study. When you’re ready, you may choose a BSN to MSN track to level up your nursing education and skills. Nursing schools also may offer BSN to DNP or BSN to PhD in Nursing online learning tracks.

Earn an RN to BSN Online

Walden University, a leader in distance education for over 50 years, offers an online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-BSN) degree program accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

As a Walden nursing student, you’ll learn from experienced faculty members. You’ll engage with realistic, interactive simulations designed to reinforce health assessment concepts. And with Walden’s Practicum Pledge®, you’ll have resources to support you throughout your practicum experience. 

A BSN degree can help prepare you with a versatile skill set applicable to a range of nursing settings. Gain critical skills by advancing your education in a Bachelor of Science in Nursing online degree program.

Walden University is an HLC-accredited institution offering an online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-BSN) degree program. Earn your degree in a convenient, flexible format that fits your busy life.

1Source: https://bhw.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/bureau-health-workforce/data-research/nursing-projections-factsheet.pdf
2Source: www.aacnnursing.org/News-Information/Fact-Sheets/Nursing-Shortage
3Source: www.aacnnursing.org/news-data/research-data-center/new-graduate-employment-data
4Source: www.census.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2018/cb18-41-population-projections.html
5Source: https://odphp.health.gov/healthypeople/objectives-and-data/browse-objectives/older-adults
6Source: www.aacnnursing.org/news-information/fact-sheets/impact-of-education

The baccalaureate degree program in nursing (BSN), master’s degree program in nursing (MSN), post-graduate APRN certificate program, and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at Walden University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (www.ccneaccreditation.org).

Walden University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (www.hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Whether looking for information on programs, admissions, or financial aid, we're here to help.

Fill out the form and we will contact you to provide information about furthering your education.

Please use our International Form if you live outside of the U.S.

  • Step 1: Contact Information
  • Step 2: Academic Interests

Are you or your spouse an active or retired U.S. military service member?*

By submitting this form, you consent to Walden University's Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. You also agree we may contact you at the contact information provided regarding our educational programs and services, including for marketing purposes. WU may use automated systems or generative artificial intelligence to reach out via phone, pre-recorded messages, email and/or text. See our Terms of Service for additional details.