How an Online RN to BSN Helped a Nurse Advance Her Career
It’s becoming more evident that nurses should have a bachelor’s degree. A lot of hospitals now require that all new nurses hold the degree, and for current nurses, it’s difficult to move up without a one.
Thankfully, online RN to BSN degrees allow current nurses to advance their education without sacrificing work and personal commitments. But how does it work? And what is it really like? We interviewed Tatiana Soltani, BSN, RN, who currently works as an ICU nurse, to get her perspective.
1. Why did you choose to earn your RN to BSN online?
I chose an online RN to BSN program for convenience. I work full time and have a family, so being able to work at my own pace on my own schedule was a priority for me.
2. How does an online RN to BSN work?
It works much the same as a traditional school as far as classes and assignments. Each course had either required papers to write or (proctored) exams to take. The difference is that there is no “due date” other than finishing by the end of the semester to avoid an incomplete. Additionally, the program I chose is self-paced. That means that as long as I completed the required 12 units a semester, I could do more for the same base price. I actually completed my entire course load of 16 classes and 43 units in one semester and saved a lot of money. It wasn’t something I set out to do, specifically, but just worked out that way. Conversely, if you didn’t have extra time, you could just do 12 units and even take breaks up to 3 months between semesters.
Featured Online Schools
Founded in 1908, D’Youville College has several rigorous online degree programs avail…
View Programs for D’Youville College Request InfoKing University, located in Bristol, Tenn., offers numerous online degrees for adult …
View Programs for King University Request InfoRivier University provides affordable, career-advancing online degree programs with a…
View Programs for Rivier University Request InfoThe University of West Florida prepares students for success by offering collaborativ…
View Programs for University of West Florida Request InfoSponsored
3. How often did you have clinicals? How did the placement work?
My school counted full-time work experience concurrent with schooling as meeting most clinical requirements. For the community health class, we conducted field work in our community and wrote a paper about a healthcare topic affecting our own population. For that, we had to have a preceptor and keep a log with time spent and locations visited with contact information. We did have to find our own preceptors that met school criteria, (which) proved to be the most challenging thing for me because the (California board of registered nursing) is very strict on maintaining certain standards. Students in other states did not have to meet the requirement of a preceptor.
4. What were the benefits of getting your RN to BSN online? Challenges?
The benefits were . . . the convenience factor and also being able to save money by completing the program in (one) semester. The challenges I faced were mostly finding a preceptor to oversee my community health clinical hours and some software issues with the exam proctoring service.
5. What skills are necessary for a person pursuing an online RN to BSN?
You have to be really motivated and a good independent learner. Yes, there are resources if you don’t understand the material, but it takes extra time and scheduling. It also helps if you’re computer savvy to know how to access and use materials provided. Having social media, also, is beneficial for reaching out to fellow students for support and clarification.
6. What advice would you give to a person debating whether to get their RN to BSN online?
I would highly recommend researching several programs to find the one that is right for you. There are many programs, and they all have very different costs and requirements. Find out if it is accredited, first and foremost, and ask around for friends/coworkers that went to those schools to get (their) experience. Also, if you plan on continuing on in your field find out how getting a BSN from that school will affect you.
7. Why did you want/choose to be a nurse?
I fought it for a long time, actually! I have a large family of nurses, and it was never something that interested me. I was in the Army in an unrelated field, and when I got out, I found it hard to find a decent job. I finally relented and started nursing school and was surprised to find out how much I loved it. I guess it was always “meant to be,” even though I didn’t know it!
8. What are your professional goals for the future? Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
My next goal is to get my critical care certification and move on to an advanced degree in nursing. I haven’t decided what specialization I want to pursue yet, so I’m keeping my options open.
9. Is there anything else you think readers would find interesting/helpful?
Look in to seeing if your employer offers tuition assistance and if your chosen program would qualify. That’s a great way to keep costs down.
Taking Advantage of Online Learning
Online degree options offer a great opportunity for nurses to advance their education without having to sacrifice flexibility. That’s highlighted with one of the most popular online degree options in the RN to BSN. Current nurses can obtain a desirable degree while they maintain their work and personal commitments.
In a convenient online learning environment, nurses can gain the skills and knowledge to grow their career and achieve their goals. All of that happens without having to commute to and from a college or university. Studying and coursework takes place when and where it works best for nurses, which can vary significantly based on their schedules.
Featured Online Nursing Degrees
-
- LocationUtica, NY
- Accreditation(s)MSCHE, ACBSP, N/A
- Religious AffiliationN/A
- Cost Per Credit$420
-
Creating “online programs that create heroes,” Utica College developed curriculum for the B.S. in Healthcare Management with the goal of connecting humans and business in a way that benefits both. Led by expert faculty members and focused on people, courses guide future healthcare professionals on asking the right questions and find the solutions that affect both the workplace and the environment for those in care. Study a range of business applications from compelling marketing messages to identifying contributors to best patient outcomes.
-
- LocationMishawaka, IN
- Accreditation(s)HLC, ACEN
- Religious AffiliationChristian
- Cost Per Credit$465
-
The online online MSN from Bethel University prepares registered nurses for career advancement as nurse leaders in administration and education roles. It emphasizes evidence-based practice and includes core coursework in information systems, statistical literacy, advanced theory and more. Through a rigorous curriculum focused on effective communication and decision-making, this program promotes excellence in holistic, patient-centered care.
-
- LocationCharlotte, NC
- Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, CCNE
- Religious AffiliationPresbyterian
- Cost Per Credit$572 per credit
-
Acquire the relevant skills and experience to advance your healthcare career with the Queens University of Charlotte online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). Built around the demanding schedule of RNs, this program prepares students to graduate as a trained and principled nurse leader. Continue your higher education pursuits without compromising your current professional commitments. Licensed RNs can graduate in just over 2 years on the RN to MSN pathway. Immerse yourself in coursework that supports your career goals through specialization tracks such as Clinical Nurse Leader, Nurse Administrator, Nurse Educator, and Nursing Informatics. There is no on-campus residency requirement so you can earn your MSN fully online and complete the program’s clinical requirement in your area, making the Queens MSN one of the more achievable nursing degrees available.
-
- LocationPensacola, FL
- Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, CCNE
- Religious Affiliation–
- Cost Per Credit$500
-
Develop the skills needed to care for patients of all ages and meet the needs of tomorrow’s nurses with UWF’s online Master of Science in Nursing program. Learn from experienced educators as you learn how to implement research- and evidence-based practices. This program helps you prepare for national exams, an academic career, or doctoral studies. Choose from three specializations: family nurse practitioner, nursing education, and nurse executive.
-
- LocationTeaneck, NJ
- Accreditation(s)MSCHE, CCNE
- Religious AffiliationPrivate
- Cost Per Credit$825
-
The online Master of Science in Nursing program from Fairleigh Dickinson University offers two concentrations to suit your professional goals: family nurse practitioner and nursing education. Depending on your concentration, the program prepares you to diagnose and treat diverse patients or become an instructor in collegiate nursing programs. Through a state-of-the-art curriculum, you’ll acquire the training you need to effectively work with students, parents, and patients.
-
- LocationBristol, TN
- Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, CCNE
- Religious AffiliationPresbyterian
- Cost Per Credit$605.00
-
Advance your career through continued education with King University’s online Master of Science in Nursing program. Choose between two concentrations: nurse educator and administrator. Featuring a cohort model, the program allows you to earn your degree with the same group of peers. The program lets you collaborate on courses and projects and relay real-life work experiences into class discussions for a more interactive academic experience.
-
- LocationNashua, NH
- Accreditation(s)NECHE, ACEN
- Religious AffiliationCatholic
- Cost Per Credit$630
-
Move into a leadership or education role with the ACEN-accredited online Master of Science in Nursing program from Rivier University. Choose from three specializations: family nurse practitioner, nursing education, and health systems management. Prepare to enhance patient care, improve the health outcomes and quality of life for others, and influence the next generation of nurses. The flexible, online format of the programs can be designed around professional and personal schedules.
-
- LocationSouth Euclid, OH
- Accreditation(s)HLC
- Religious AffiliationCatholic
- Cost Per Credit$590
-
Take your nursing career to the next level with Notre Dame College’s online Master of Science in Nursing Education. Designed for working nurses who wish to become instructors in the field, the program emphasizes leadership, ethics, and advocacy. You will gain hands-on experience that can be immediately applied to the real world through a required 120-hour practicum.
-
- LocationCampbellsville, KY
- Accreditation(s)SACSCOC
- Religious AffiliationChristian
- Cost Per Credit$559
-
Discover how to contribute to excellence in healthcare and provide quality, evidence-based and holistic primary care to diverse communities throughout the lifespan with Campbellsville University’s Master of Science in Nursing degree program with a track in family nursing practice. The program teaches you how to be an effective, independent practitioner and use evidence-based practice to promote health and manage care for patients and families across the lifespan as you gain 660 clinical hours of experience.
-
- LocationPittsburgh, PA
- Accreditation(s)MSCHE, CCNE, CSWE, IACBE, ACEN, CCNE
- Religious AffiliationCatholic
- Cost Per Credit$891 per credit hour
-
Carlow‘s MSN FNP offers unique flexibility as the only program in the Pittsburgh area that culminates with a Master’s yet is also linked to a DNP program for students seeking advanced degrees. Catering to practitioners seeking to partner with patients in disease prevention, course curriculum focuses on providing guidance for healthy life choices and treating developing diseases as they arise. Online or hybrid, the Carlow MSN FNP is the largest NP program in western PA and has recently maintained a 98-100% pass rate for graduates pursuing AANP or ANCC national board certification.
-
- LocationCampbellsville, KY
- Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, N/A
- Religious AffiliationChristian
- Cost Per Credit$559
-
Built to address the industry need for more nurses with graduate degrees, the MSN program track at Campbellsville University prepares medical professionals for administrative and management positions. The unique design allows BSN nurses to pursue their MSN during fulltime employment, continuing to serve the community and maintain training and income while advancing their career online. With special focuses in the areas of communications and relationship management, this master’s curriculum develops oral and interpersonal skills essential to both personnel management, professional representation, and patient care, fulfilling the University’s academic foundation of caring, compassion, and competency.
-
- LocationPhiladelphia, PA
- Accreditation(s)MSCHE, MSCHE
- Religious Affiliation–
- Cost Per Credit$605
-
Develop real-world skills in health systems, policy, application, and diagnostics with the online B.S. in Health Studies from Thomas Jefferson University. Make the most of your health related transfer credits applying to a program where expert faulty provide innovative digital instruction in a wide range of curricular focuses, including a variety of elective choices, for a degree that’s customizable to your chosen specialty or preparation for graduate studies. Become equipped for healthcare professions requiring knowledge of dental hygiene, medical imaging, medical coding, medical laboratory, epidemiology, respiratory care technology, occupational therapy, as well as the tools that equip you to access, use, and evaluate evidence-based information more effectively for greater patient outcomes.
-
- LocationWest Haven, CT
- Accreditation(s)NECHE
- Religious AffiliationPrivate
- Cost Per Credit$700
-
Launch your Licensed Professional Counselor career with the University of New Haven’s online, low-residency M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. Specialize your degree with one of two optional concentrations in forensics or community development and field experience through 700 hours of supervised clinical training. Curriculum establishes competence in all 8 core domains of counseling, a career field set to grow 25% over the next decade, and aligns with state of Connecticut and CACREP standards for licensed counseling professionals.
-
- LocationWest Haven, CT
- Accreditation(s)NECHE, Seeking CEPH
- Religious AffiliationPrivate
- Cost Per Credit$700
-
The University of New Haven offers one of the only STEM-designated programs with its Master of Public Health degree. Coursework focuses on global health, education, and health informatics and culminates with a faculty-mentored capstone. Gain the tech-based expertise sought after by employers and industry leaders in a field expected to grow faster than the national average in this decade.
-
- LocationWest Haven, CT
- Accreditation(s)NECHE, CAHME
- Religious AffiliationPrivate
- Cost Per Credit$700
-
The University of New Haven. offers the only fully CAHME-accredited program in southern New England, with an MHA built on practical application for the health sector, developing statistical analysis abilities. Delivering the 11 core competencies in a 1.5 year program, students develop an individualized course of study customed to support their unique career choice.
-
- LocationPittsburgh, PA
- Accreditation(s)MSCHE, CCNE, CSWE, IACBE, ACEN, CCNE
- Religious AffiliationCatholic
- Cost Per Credit$891 per credit hour
-
The Carlow UniversityWomen’s Health Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced practice registered nurses and increases the number of WH clinical experts in areas of Western PA that are traditionally underserved. Uniquely designed to culminate as an MSN with continuation toward a DNP as an option, Carlow’s NP program is not only the largest in its area, but has maintained a 100% board certification pass rate among graduates since inception.
-
- LocationDeKalb, IL
- Accreditation(s)HLC, CCNE
- Religious Affiliation–
- Cost Per Credit$348
-
A career-advancing RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program from Northern Illinois University can be completed in as little as 1 year. Study on a flexible schedule that doesn’t conflict with professional commitments, so you lose no time as you continue as a licensed RN earning a CCNE-accredited bachelor’s degree. Gain essential skills in critical thinking, health assessment, and evidence-based practice as you complete your practicum at a health care facility in your own community. Experienced faculty will guide your exploration of a complex health care system, preparing you to benefit patient outcomes and improve systems and processes in population-focused healthcare. Credentials and learned skills will help you stand out as a candidate and leader in an industry where advanced degrees are preferred and at times required. Apply up to 33 credits from your previous nursing education toward your bachelor’s degree and complete 12 hours of nursing credit to transfer your credits.
-
- LocationFayetteville, NC
- Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, ACBSP, AACN, DPI, CCNE
- Religious AffiliationMethodist
- Cost Per Credit$400
-
The online RN to BSN from Methodist University propels the professional profile of actively working nurses. For those who have completed their associate degree and have an unrestricted RN license, the online RN to BSN allows students to accelerate affordably through BSN courses in as little as 12 months and provides the credential for advancement. The CCNE-accredited curriculum helps refine nursing skills to develop the most patient-centered care by combining nursing theory and practice with courses in health policy, evidence-based practice applications, pathophysiology, public health nursing, and beside care. Gain an advantage in job consideration and locate a position of preference for entering diverse health care and medical environments.
-
- LocationBoston, MA
- Accreditation(s)NECHE, CCNE
- Religious AffiliationCatholic
- Cost Per Credit$350
-
Designed for current registered nurses seeking to further their education and advance their careers, Emmanuel College’s online RN to BSN program offers the flexibility to balance your studies with the demanding schedule of a professional nurse. The program’s accelerated format and option to transfer up to 96 credits allow you to earn your degree in 16 months.
-
- LocationJacksonville, IL
- Accreditation(s)HLC
- Religious Affiliation–
- Cost Per Credit$375
-
Illinois College’s fully online RN to BSN program is designed to educate nurses for the needs of the future and covers a host of essential topics for advancing your education, such as bioethics, health policy, nursing research, and disease management. The accelerated program can be completed in as little as 12 months.
-
- LocationBristol, TN
- Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, CCNE
- Religious AffiliationPresbyterian
- Cost Per Credit$330
-
The online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) program from King University provides an educational opportunity for current registered nurses who want to further their education and advance their career by earning a bachelor’s degree. The program is designed as a transformational learning experience leading to personal and professional skill development to meet the needs of registered nurses previously prepared at the ADN or diploma level.
-
- LocationSouth Euclid, OH
- Accreditation(s)HLC
- Religious AffiliationCatholic
- Cost Per Credit$240
-
Build your competency as a medical professional and earn the credential you need to advance in your career with the online RN to BSN program at Notre Dame College. Designed for working nurses, the program increases your capacity to improve patient outcomes, improves your leadership skills, and readies you to become an effective change maker in your organization as you gain practical training in the field.
-
- LocationBaltimore, MD
- Accreditation(s)MSCHE, CCNE
- Religious AffiliationCatholic
- Cost Per Credit$375
-
Transform your nursing career and earn an in-demand degree with the online RN to BSN degree program from Notre Dame of Maryland University. Gain the skills and knowledge needed to enhance your career opportunities in nursing while fulfilling the educational requirements of many healthcare employers. The program can be completed in as little as 15 months.
-
- LocationPortsmouth, OH
- Accreditation(s)HLC, ACEN
- Religious Affiliation–
- Cost Per Credit$278
-
Led by experienced nurse educators, Shawnee State University’s RN to BSN online program features small class sizes, personalized attention, and dedication to your future success. Accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), the accelerated curriculum equips you with the quality education needed to advance your career or pursue graduate studies.
-
- LocationNashua, NH
- Accreditation(s)NECHE, ACEN
- Religious AffiliationCatholic
- Cost Per Credit$360
-
Advance your nursing career and impact the lives of others with an ACEN-accredited RN to BSN online from Rivier University. Graduates of this program are prepared for leadership positions and master’s-level educational opportunities. The program’s flexible, convenient format can be designed around professional and personal schedules. Students with an active RN license will be awarded transfer credit for their experience and can finish the program faster.
-
- LocationPensacola, FL
- Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, CCNE
- Religious Affiliation–
- Cost Per Credit$282.13
-
Gain more skills for career advancement in nursing and increased earning potential with the online RN to BSN from the University of West Florida. Through the program, you will demonstrate your commitment to the nursing profession as you advance your knowledge in evidence-based nursing practice, high-quality care, communication, and leadership. The CCNE-accredited program is taught by educators who are highly experienced in a variety of areas in the field, and you will gain their insight into nursing practices and the healthcare system.
-
- LocationSt. Paul, MN
- Accreditation(s)HLC, CCNE
- Religious AffiliationLutheran
- Cost Per Credit$420
-
Concordia University, St. Paul’s online RN to BSN program advances the knowledge and skills of nursing professionals through an integration of learning and experience. Using a combination of theoretical inquiry and practical application, you will gain insight into ethics in healthcare, professional and evidence-based practice, interdisciplinary collaboration and communication, leadership, management, care coordination, and community health.
-
- LocationReading, PA
- Accreditation(s)MSCHE CCNE, CCNE* The RN to BSN Completion Program at Alvernia University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (http://www.ccneaccreditation.org).
- Religious AffiliationFranciscan Roman Catholic
- Cost Per Credit$480
-
With Alvernia University’s online RN to BSN program, you can earn the credentials you need to pursue broader responsibilities and career opportunities within nursing. The program teaches you advanced nursing skills as you also explore historical and contemporary issues and future trends. Because of the program’s online format, you can earn your degree while maintaining your busy schedule and learn from faculty who are experienced in a variety of clinical practice and professional leadership roles.
-
- LocationMishawaka, IN
- Accreditation(s)HLC, ACEN
- Religious AffiliationChristian
- Cost Per Credit$405
-
Bethel University’s RN to BSN online program equips you with the skills, knowledge, and practical training you need to take on more challenging roles in your workplace and advance in your profession. Designed for working professionals, the program’s curriculum trains you in a host of areas required for the modern nurse, such as pharmacology, patient and family centered care, community-based nursing, global health, nursing informatics, and more.
-
- LocationTeaneck, NJ
- Accreditation(s)MSCHE, CCNE
- Religious AffiliationPrivate
- Cost Per Credit$725
-
Fairleigh Dickinson University’s online RN-MSN saves you time and money in earning the credentials you need to be recognized as a nurse leader and qualify for management roles. This program is designed to give registered nurses the opportunity to complete requirements for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree on their way to earning their Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). Because we accept 90 associate degree credits, you can fast-track your online RN to MSN and make the most of your previous nursing education. Choose the track that matches your career goals — become a nurse educator, or a family nurse practitioner.
-
- LocationPensacola, FL
- Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, CCNE
- Religious Affiliation–
- Cost Per Credit282.13 and 425
-
The University of West Florida’s accelerated RN to MSN online program is designed for registered nurses who are ready to continue their education with advanced credentials. It allows you to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree on your way to completing your master’s, saving time and money. By completing the BSN program, you will earn 12 credit hours at the undergraduate rate which will be applied toward your Master of Science in Nursing