Why RN to BSN
There is a shortage of nurses and many facilities require a minimum of a BSN in nursing. A BSN is required before most MSN programs. This online program allows nurses with a Associate Degree in Nursing to complete a BSN, often within a year or two. The Future of Nursing report recommends that 80% of working registered nurses complete a bachelor's degree. With a BSN, nurses have an advantage over RNs in that they can consider positions such as Nurse Manager, perioperative nursing, informatics, patient advocacy, or teaching in an Associate Degree program. A BSN also offers a higher salary and is a requirement for most Masters, APRN, or CRNA programs. Patient outcomes in hospitals improve when there are more BSN prepared nurses in the facility. There are many scholarships and funding assistance available and the working RN can complete the BSN while working full time. Students choose an elective (Holistic Nursing, Wound Care, or ER nursing) that can lead to a BSN level certificate in nursing.
Dr. Debra Rose Wilson teaching concepts and holistic nursing. She has been teaching and practicing for over 30 years. She has over 200 publications and was the American Holistic Nurse of the Year in 2017.. Dr. Terri Clark has taught both in Associate Degree programs and has been teaching RN to BSN for several years.
The RN to BSN program is open to working registered nurses (RNs) with an Associate degree in nursing (not LPNs). Austin Peay State University is the only RN to BSN program in the United States that opens a pathway to BSN level certification in Holistic, Wound Care, or ER nursing. The RN to BSN is a completely online program.
What will I learn
- Gain additional knowledge in Community Nursing, Research, and Leadership.
- Preparation for the Masters program by reviewing patho and assessment.
- Understanding the meaning and transition to a BSN program.
Sample Course Plan and General Education Requirements
2022 Nursing: RN to BSN Sample 4 Year Plan
Professional Licensure Disclosure
Students should be aware that licensure and certification requirements vary from state to state and are subject to change. Licensing agencies or boards also may have requirements in addition to an earned degree. APSU recommends that students who are not Tennessee residents or who plan to seek licensure or certification outside the state of Tennessee contact the appropriate licensing agency or board before they enroll in an academic program designed to lead to licensure or certification and discuss their plans with an advisor.
Please visit the Professional Licensure Disclosure webpage to review specific licensure information for your state and academic program.
