How Long Are RN to BSN Nursing Programs?

As healthcare needs become more diverse and specialized, the demand for Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)-prepared nurses continues to rise. With more than 73% of registered nurses (RNs) now holding a baccalaureate or higher degree, the BSN is quickly becoming the industry standard.¹

What is driving this trend? Studies show that in a hospital, increasing the number of nurses with BSNs by just 10% can reduce patient mortality and failure-to-rescue rates by 5%.² Beyond helping to improve patient outcomes, a BSN degree may help open doors to broader career opportunities, allowing nurses to stay ahead in a competitive field.

If you’re an RN considering joining the growing ranks of BSN-prepared nurses, you may be wondering: How long is an RN to BSN program? And what exactly does RN to BSN mean? Let’s dive into these and other vital questions you may have about RN to BSN programs.

How Long Is an RN to BSN Nursing Program?

The time it takes to complete an RN to BSN program depends on the nursing school you choose and how much time you can commit to your studies. Some RN to BSN programs can be completed in as little as one year of full-time study, making them a great option for those who want to and can advance their education quickly. However, if you need to balance work and other responsibilities, you can choose to study part time. It may take a bit longer to complete your degree, but you can choose a pace that fits your schedule and needs.  

What Is an RN to BSN Nursing Program?

RN to BSN programs let registered nurses who have already earned an ADN or diploma progress to the bachelor’s degree level. Curriculum in an RN to BSN nursing program can help you learn how to:

• Create plans for patient care and contribute to existing care plans
• Consult with doctors
• Collaborate with other healthcare professionals
• Help with diagnostic tests
• Analyze test results
• Advise patients and families how to manage illnesses and injuries
   

What’s the Difference Between RN and BSN?

A BSN is an undergraduate nursing degree that provides a comprehensive education in nursing and healthcare. RN is a job title and the licensure your state grants you to practice. To become a registered nurse, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) after completing a BSN, an ADN, or a diploma program. Learn more about this topic in our article, RN vs BSN Degree: What Are the Key Differences?

Is an RN to BSN Program Worth It?

Whether an RN to BSN online nursing program is worth it is a decision only you can make. But here are some of the reasons why you might choose to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree:

• To meet job requirements
• To stay competitive in healthcare organizations hiring BSN-prepared nurses
• To prepare for a wider variety of career opportunities
• To lay the foundation for earning a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
• To refresh nursing skills and gain new ones
• To deepen your nursing knowledge base

How Long Is Chamberlain University’s RN to BSN Option?  

Chamberlain, the HLC-accredited university with the nation’s largest BSN program, offers an RN to BSN option that can be completed in a year—that’s few as three semesters of year-round, full-time enrollment. There are typically three assignments per course, with discussion posts twice a week. You’ll find plenty of flexibility in this online RN to BSN program. Aside from the direct care component, all coursework is online, and there are no mandatory log-in times. But you’re not on your own. You’ll find resources to help you keep the pace and stay motivated.

What Are Other Advantages of Chamberlain’s RN to BSN Program?

There are multiple advantages to Chamberlain’s online RN to BSN. Chamberlain’s personalized learning experience includes:

• Online coursework: Courses can be completed according to your schedule. Students have access to the online library, IT Helpdesk, tutoring, career services, and other helpful support.
• No courses required prior to enrollment: Chamberlain’s RN to BSN program is one of the fastest to complete.  
• Credit transfer: RNs with an associate degree or nursing diploma are awarded 77 proficiency credits for previous experience and may be eligible for additional credits. Our RN to BSN Transfer Guide can provide more information.
• Caring faculty: Faculty members respond to nursing students within 24 hours on weekdays and 48 hours on weekends.
• Rolling start dates: Online RN to BSN courses are offered every eight weeks, so you can choose a start date that fits your schedule.  

What Are Chamberlain’s RN to BSN Enrollment Requirements?

Chamberlain strives to create a simple admission process. To get started on your RN to BSN, you’ll need the following:

• A nursing diploma or associate degree in nursing from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by either the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or the U.S. Department of Education
• A minimum cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale
• A current, active, unrestricted RN license in the U.S. or in a jurisdiction that is an associate member of the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN)

Learn more in our article, What Does It Take to Go From an RN to BSN?

What Else Should I Know About Choosing a Nursing School?  

Now that you know how long a RN to BSN program is, there are several other important elements to consider when choosing a nursing school. First, you’ll want to make sure any school of nursing you’re considering has institutional and program accreditation, offers online learning, surrounds you with student support, features a relevant curriculum, and offers you the flexibility you need to earn a bachelor’s degree as a healthcare professional.  

Also look for choice: Chamberlain offers a variety of flexible online degree programs for nursing professionals. Chamberlain’s Enrollment Representatives are available to answer your questions and guide you through the application process. Get started by calling 877.751.5783 or connecting online.

Take the next step in your nursing journey by exploring an RN to BSN program designed to enhance your skills and expand your knowledge. Discover how going from RN to BSN can help you grow in your nursing practice to provide even better care to your patients.

Chamberlain University, an HLC-accredited institution, offers bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and certificate programs in nursing and healthcare professions. With a growing network of campuses and robust online programs, Chamberlain continues to build on more than 135 years of excellence in preparing extraordinary healthcare professionals.

By Chamberlain University