Embracing Self-Directed Learning

Neither adult education nor self-directed learning are new. However, the study of these topics is fairly new. During the past century or so, our knowledge of how adults mentally acquire skills and information has grown, and with it, opportunities to improve the quality of their educational experiences. If you are considering applying to an online degree program, it helps to gain basic understanding of these concepts.

What is Andragogy?

Andragogy is the study of adult learning, explains professor Sharan B. Merriam. The concept of andragogy began in 19th century Germany to distinguish between the educational programs of children and adults. Later in the 20th century, the word came to be associated with the professionalization of adult education in both Europe and America. However, American educator Malcolm Knowles is credited with defining our modern understanding of the concept.

Unlike children, adults require different educational interactions that speak to their needs as students. You might, for example, need explanations for why certain topics are being taught, show a preference for a self-directed approach to learning, or retain information better when working on common tasks with others.

Assumptions of Andragogy

Early on, Knowles’ research assumed five core aspects of adult learners:

Adult learners have an independent self-concept. Therefore, they are capable of directing their own learning.
Adult learners have accumulated a large quantity of life experiences, which provide rich resources for learning.
Adult learners have learning needs that relate closely with their changing social roles.
The learning style of adult learners is problem-centered and focuses on immediate application of knowledge.
Adult learners are motivated to learn by internal (rather than external) factors.

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Critiques

Although Knowles’ premise was considered a strong one, many criticized his assumptions.

Some thought that the list above better described principles of good education practice. For example, identifying one’s learning needs and setting personal learning objectives can just as easily be the result of successful classroom facilitation as they can of maturity. Others thought that the list was unclear. Did it characterize what an adult learner is, or what one should ideally be like? It could be read as both a theory about learning and a model of teaching. And some questioned whether the assumptions actually described adult learners properly. (For example, adult learners may be externally motivated by required work training, while children may be internally motivated by curiosity.)

After working through these criticisms, Knowles acknowledged that andragogy is defined more by the learning situation than the learners.

Outcomes

Knowles identifies certain outcomes that make any venture in andragogy successful. As an adult learner, you are considered successful if you:

: A successful learning experience means you are better able to understand your own needs, motivations, and goals. Additionally, you may develop the ability to better examine yourself with maturity and objectivity. You are able to identify your strengths and weaknesses and have developed the drive to improve.
: Your learning experience has enabled you to see the distinction between people and ideas and challenge the latter without threatening the former. This, Knowles believed, can lead you to a greater sense of empathy.
: You come to understand that change is constant and that everything is a learning opportunity. This mindset helps you to build mastery.
: You should understand that solutions can be found by looking at the root cause of problems.
: If you are a successfully taught adult learner, you can use your education to develop many types of skills and reach the full scope of your abilities.
: You should come to understand and respect universal values, as well as the overall heritage of knowledge and great traditions of the world.
: If you are educated, you are able to participate intelligently in processes that affect your society. You should be adequately knowledgeable about government, international affairs, economics, and other aspects of the social order in order to participate in them fully and competently.

While andragogy explains the theoretical aspects of adult learning, the practical aspects of this phenomenon are different. If successful adult education is a destination, self-directed learning is the vehicle that gets you there.

AS in Business Administration LocationCampbellsville, KY Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, IACBE Religious AffiliationChristian Cost Per Credit$399: Learn the fundamental business skills necessary for a career in business administration, including finance, economics, accounting, and more with the online Associate of Science in Business Administration degree program from Campbellsville University. Topics of study include accounting principles, fundamentals of microeconomics and macroeconomics, concepts and analytical tools used in finance, marketing concepts, human resource management, management principles, and more.
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Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) LocationDavenport, IL Accreditation(s)HLC, ACBSP Religious AffiliationCatholic Cost Per Credit$475: The online Bachelor of Business Administration program from St. Ambrose University provides a comprehensive education for a career in business. With a curriculum grounded in liberal arts and taught by faculty with real-world business experience, the program teaches business, leadership, and communication skills. The program focuses on the skills needed to advance in a variety of fields and offers small class sizes. An accounting specialization is available.
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Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) LocationAurora, IL Accreditation(s)HLC Religious AffiliationPrivate Cost Per Credit$425: Develop the skills and knowledge needed to begin social work practice with the online Bachelor of Social Work degree completion program from Aurora University. You’ll be prepared to work with communities, groups, families, and individuals in a variety of settings as well as with diverse populations and problems.
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What Is Self-Directed Learning?

Knowles also wrote extensively about self-direction in learning. He defines it as a process:

“… in which individuals take the initiative, with or without the help of others, in diagnosing their learning needs, formulating learning goals, identifying human and material resources for learning, choosing, and implementing appropriate learning strategies, and evaluating learning outcomes.”

Knowles goes on to explain three reasons why self-directed learning is important.

Evidence suggests that self-directed learners learn more and better than those who wait to be taught (known as “reactive learners”). Self-directed learners also have more motivation, purpose, and make greater use of what they learn over lengthier periods of time.
Self-directed learning is coordinated with the natural psychological development process. An essential aspect of maturity is, in fact, self-direction: the increased responsibility we all take for our own lives.
Developments in education have put an increasingly heavy responsibility on learners to take self-initiatives. Students who do not have the skills necessary to participate in self-directed learning will be more likely to get frustrated, anxious, and fail at their studies.

How do you develop self-directed learning?

Self-directed learning is essential to success as an online student. Roger Hiemstra, a well-known adult education scholar, suggests that you begin the process of developing as a self-directed learner by evaluating your competency in the following areas:

Inquiry and problem solving
Keeping an open mind to alternative viewpoints
Quickly distinguishing relevant resources and data
Obtaining information on your performance, both through self-observation and feedback
Assessing personal academic performance
Creating learning goals, plans, and activities based on personal learning needs
Setting performance objectives
Improving academically by watching others
Committing to working on goals
Sustaining self-motivation continuously

Understanding your personal learning style is another way to develop as a self-directed learner. Richard M. Felder identifies a number of potential learning styles observed in students:

Dimension of Learning	Learning Styles	Explanation
Perception	Sensory	You prefer to take in sights, sounds, physical sensations
Perception	Intuitive	You prefer to perceive through possibilities and insights
Input	Visual	You take in information most effectively through visual means
Input	Auditory	You take in information most effectively through sounds
Organization	Inductive	You respond best to information presented as facts and observations, with underlying principles inferred
Organization	Deductive	You respond best to information where underlying principles are explained, and its applications are implied
Processing	Active	You process information through physical engagement or discussion
Processing	Reflective	You process information through contemplation
Understanding	Sequential	You prefer to organize information in a linear and logically sequenced fashion
Understanding	Global	You prefer to organize information holistically

To be a successful self-directed learner, you should know that the traditional roles of student and teacher may shift. Your teacher may no longer serve in an authoritative role. Instead, a teacher may serve as an advisor, helping to encourage and direct learning experiences without providing easy answers or simply offering information for you to memorize.

This change leaves room for you to take more responsibility for your learning. It boosts your motivation to self-assess and self-monitor progress. You are able to define your own goals and adapt as necessary. Ultimately, all this makes it possible for you to achieve greater academic success.

Finally, seasoned self-directed learners display or develop certain characteristics as self-motivators, self-managers, and self-appraisers. Ideally you should demonstrate the following characteristics, according to educators Kath Murdoch and Jeni Wilson:

Curiosity
Seeking to learn what you don’t know
Proactiveness
Goal setting
Risk taking
Positive thinking
Enjoying challenges

Thoughtfulness and deliberation
Perseverance
Self-patience
Attempting to solve problems before asking others for help
Pacing your work
Using a range of organizational systems

Self-awareness
Able to articulate your needs
Reflective on your best personal learning strategies
Good judgment
Positive self-talk
You don’t constantly seek approval
Comfortable with asking questions

Self-directed learning is a skill that takes time, effort, and practice. However, if you wish to take a more active role in your education, it is also practical and highly effective.

The Promise of Self-Directed Learning

Adult education is not simply an afterthought of the education system. It is in fact a well-paved path that relies heavily on the strengths unique to adult learners — namely introspection and a complex understanding of the world. Because of this, online degree programs offer a unique promise to help you reach your full potential as a learner, a professional, and as a person.

AS in Business Administration LocationCampbellsville, KY Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, IACBE Religious AffiliationChristian Cost Per Credit$399: Learn the fundamental business skills necessary for a career in business administration, including finance, economics, accounting, and more with the online Associate of Science in Business Administration degree program from Campbellsville University. Topics of study include accounting principles, fundamentals of microeconomics and macroeconomics, concepts and analytical tools used in finance, marketing concepts, human resource management, management principles, and more.
B.A./B.S. in Sport Management LocationLivingston, AL Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, SACS Religious Affiliation– Cost Per Credit$325: Earn your B.A./B.S. in Sport Management from UWA for eligibility for job opportunities in a growing sports industry or to prepare for pursuing your sports master’s or MBA. Choose from multidisciplinary or business administration emphasis with options to specialize your degree. Key topics include kinesiology, athletic administration, exercise physiology, and ethics, along with the opportunity to complete a sports management internship to gain valuable hands-on experience.
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BA in Business Administration LocationMishawaka, IN Accreditation(s)HLC Religious AffiliationChristian Cost Per Credit$405.00: The online Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration program from Bethel University readies you to succeed in the high-opportunity world of business and finance. Featuring a rigorous curriculum, the program offers training in a wide variety of areas including accounting, business law, business communication, marketing, human resources, and more. Combined with biblical principles, the online program prepares you to work in a number of positions as a competent and ethical professional.
BA in Business Administration LocationSt. Paul, MN Accreditation(s)HLC Religious AffiliationLutheran Cost Per Credit$420: The Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration program at Concordia University, St. Paul allows you to develop academic credentials as well as leadership, writing, and communication skills. You will explore core business principles in marketing, finance, management, law, economics, and accounting with an emphasis on international perspectives, environmental sustainability, and ethics. You will investigate various dimensions of business decisions by delving into case studies and developing solutions to situations you may face in the business world.
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Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) LocationDavenport, IL Accreditation(s)HLC, ACBSP Religious AffiliationCatholic Cost Per Credit$475: The online Bachelor of Business Administration program from St. Ambrose University provides a comprehensive education for a career in business. With a curriculum grounded in liberal arts and taught by faculty with real-world business experience, the program teaches business, leadership, and communication skills. The program focuses on the skills needed to advance in a variety of fields and offers small class sizes. An accounting specialization is available.
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Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) LocationAurora, IL Accreditation(s)HLC Religious AffiliationPrivate Cost Per Credit$425: Develop the skills and knowledge needed to begin social work practice with the online Bachelor of Social Work degree completion program from Aurora University. You’ll be prepared to work with communities, groups, families, and individuals in a variety of settings as well as with diverse populations and problems.
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) LocationCampbellsville, KY Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, CSWE Religious AffiliationChristian Cost Per Credit$399: Develop an understanding of the basics of social work while also gaining hands-on, practical experience in the field with the online Bachelor of Social Work program from Campbellsville University. Through the program, you’ll learn the historical and contemporary principles of social work, as well as the theoretical perspectives related to the field. You will also discover the necessary skills for performing generalist social work practice in a variety of areas: communities and organizations, individuals, families, and groups.
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) LocationBristol, TN Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, CSWE Religious AffiliationPresbyterian Cost Per Credit$305: King University’s online Bachelor of Social Work degree program is designed to provide students with the skills necessary to become global citizens and make an impact in an in-demand career in social work or human services. Choose between three concentrations — nurse educator, administrator, and PNP — and learn to apply advocacy and intervention strategies to support individuals, families, groups, communities, and organizations.
Bachelor’s in Accounting LocationLa Grande, OR Accreditation(s)NWCCU, IACBE, IACBE Religious AffiliationPublic Cost Per Credit$265: A Bachelor’s in Accounting from Eastern Oregon University is backed by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE) and provides a base of a wide range of career application including CPA, controller, auditor, accountant, fiscal manager or tax specialist. Building from a strong understanding of accounting theory plus related skillsets, you will be prepared for licensure exams with a degree that pairs with advanced studies in EOU’s Master of Business Administration. Beyond the required upper- and lower-division core, two optional specialized tracks are offered in Certified Managerial Accounting and Forensic Accounting. More than just numbers-based, accounting today has developed as a field that depends on interpersonal communication, collaboration, problem solving, and people and management systems, all focuses of EOU’s accounting fast track, able to be completed in 3 years.
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BBA Business Management LocationBristol, TN Accreditation(s)SACSCOC Religious AffiliationPresbyterian Cost Per Credit$305: The online BBA Business Management degree program from King University is designed for adult learners who have earned some college credits and seek to finish their bachelor’s degree and enhance their business management knowledge. It prepares professionals for various career paths that require excellent business, communication, and critical thinking skills and the integration of management, administration, and strategy theory.
BS in Business Administration LocationCampbellsville, KY Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, IACBE Religious AffiliationChristian Cost Per Credit$399.00: Master the fundamentals of business and explore the important trends and concepts that are driving today’s fast-paced economy with the online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration program from Campbellsville University. Choose from five exciting emphases based on your area of business interest:
BS in Business Administration: Management
BS in Business Administration: Human Resource Management
BS in Business Administration: Healthcare Management
BS in Business Administration: Accounting
BS in Business Administration: Marketing
BS in Business Administration LocationSeward, NE Accreditation(s)HLC, IACBE Religious AffiliationLutheran Cost Per Credit$350.00: The online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration program from Concordia University, Nebraska prepares you for a rewarding career in project management, leadership, accounting, finance, and more. You will study an innovative curriculum featuring open educational resources and real-world assignments, collaborating with their peers to apply key concepts to current problems facing organizations, with the goal of finding solutions that lead to successful business outcomes.
BS in Business Administration LocationNashua, NH Accreditation(s)NECHE, ACBSP Religious AffiliationCatholic Cost Per Credit$360: Transform your future with the online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree program from Rivier University. The program gives you a strong foundation in business principles and the skills and knowledge to advance your company or organizational goals or to take your own business to the next level. You will develop a fundamental understanding of business in topics such as business management, marketing, business writing, budgeting, and strategic management.
BS in Business Administration LocationInstitute, WV Accreditation(s)HLC, ACBSP Religious Affiliation– Cost Per Credit$316: The fully online B.S. in Business Administration program from West Virginia State University teaches you the skills required for leadership positions in today’s business world. Choose between two concentrations: accounting and management. The program focuses on fundamental theories and concepts in the field of business administration and helps you develop your communication, critical thinking, problem solving, and decision making skills. The program can be completed in just two to four years.
BS in Business Management LocationReading, PA Accreditation(s)MSCHE CCNE, ACBSP Religious AffiliationFranciscan Roman Catholic Cost Per Credit$480: Alvernia University’s online Bachelor of Science in Business Management prepares you for a management role in a variety of settings. The program provides you with a strong foundation in business management as you learn both its practical and ethical standpoints, and it equips you with the management and supervisory skills you need to excel in an entry-level or mid-level position at an organization. The online Bachelor’s in Business Management degree prepares you for a management role in a variety of settings. You could succeed in positions including regional sales manager, product marketing manager, business consultant or business operations manager.
BS in Business Management LocationPhiladelphia, PA Accreditation(s)MSCHE, MSCHE Religious Affiliation– Cost Per Credit$605: Gain the knowledge you need for the career you want with Jefferson Online’s B.S. in Business Management program. Learn the leadership skills to make the most out of an organization’s people, processes, and potential to help achieve their related goals. Curriculum is focused on teaching you to drive innovation while gaining expertise in professional communication, change management, problem solving, and more.
BS in General Business LocationCampbellsville, KY Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, IACBE Religious AffiliationChristian Cost Per Credit$399.00: The online Bachelor of Science in General Business degree program from Campbellsville University provides students insight on various aspects of business, preparing them for more opportunities in the corporate environment. The degree is perfect for students who wish to further their careers in the business industry in areas such as human resources, finance, retail, banking, accounting and more. This online program gives you a broad-based business background that is grounded in Christian values.
BS in Health Care Management Online 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.
BS in Healthcare Management LocationPittsburgh, PA Accreditation(s)MSCHE, CCNE, CSWE, IACBE, ACEN, MSCHE, CCNE Religious AffiliationCatholic Cost Per Credit$495: A degree in the Healthcare Industry is in rapidly growing demand with immeasurable projection in ongoing job security and a BS carries more weight than Associates degrees and certificates. Carlow offers a BS program built around five career competencies: Communication, Leadership, Professionalism, Knowledge, and Business. 100% online, the BSHM focuses on career readiness and hands on learning to start or advance your non-clinical healthcare leadership career.
BS/BAS in Business Administration: Health Care Administration Concentration LocationFayetteville, NC Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, ACBSP, AACN, DPI, ACBSP Religious AffiliationMethodist Cost Per Credit$400: The ACBSP-accredited Reeves School of Business at Methodist University offers a BS in Business Administration specializing in medical terminology, health care management, health care economics and finance, and health care research. Learn how to direct an organization’s business resources to provide the best patient outcomes along with graduate level skills in human resources, management, sales, market research, finance, and consulting. Traditional core business courses teach decision-making and leadership skills so graduates are able to identify and address complex business problems. Cultivate how to be a team player, and gain awareness of personal strengths and weaknesses, a highly sought-after skill among hiring professionals.
Online Bachelor of Science / Bachelor of Applied Science in Business Administration LocationFayetteville, NC Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, ACBSP, AACN, DPI, ACBSP Religious AffiliationMethodist Cost Per Credit$400: Earning a BS/BAS in Business Administration from Methodist University‘s Reeves School of Business provides a ACBSP accredited degree that lets you launch or advance your career in nearly any field. Curriculum prepares graduates with a knowledge base in human resources, management, sales, market research, finance, and consulting, positioned for job acquisition, promotion, or income growth. 100% online, you can transfer up to 93 credits to this 124 credit hour program that incorporates group work, case studies, and faculty equipped to guide your interests into a best match filed of business. Methodist University is a Yellow Ribbon School.
Online Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Technology LocationFayetteville, NC Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, ACBSP, AACN, DPI, SACSCOC Religious AffiliationMethodist Cost Per Credit$400: 100% online, MU’s Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Technology is built for acquiring advanced technical skills, business solutions preparedness, and expertise in emerging technologies. Students become the key innovators that increase profitability for companies and customers alike. With this degree, graduates have benefited from interaction with a diverse faculty dynamic and exposure to extensive technological expertise. Developed to go beyond standard I.T. bachelor programs covering network administration, system administration, and web-based systems, the BSCIT includes enhanced studies in computer science and programming via accounting, finance, and management course curriculum.
Online Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration LocationFayetteville, NC Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, ACBSP, AACN, DPI Religious AffiliationMethodist Cost Per Credit$400: Become a leading health care professional with MU’s online Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration. One of the few AUPHA-certified programs available, this advanced curriculum also includes internship opportunities that give students an edge entering their chosen career path. Learn from faculty with real-world, real-time experience in curriculum areas such as health care theory and practice, strategic management, organizational behavior, informatics, and research.
Online Bachelor of Science in Health Studies 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.
Online Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Data Analytics LocationPittsburgh, PA Accreditation(s)MSCHE, CCNE, CSWE, IACBE, ACEN, MSCHE Religious AffiliationCatholic Cost Per Credit$495: Carlow University’s 100% online Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Data Analytics program gives graduates the technical and analytical skills vital to career placement and advancement in today’s healthcare related fields. Develop a knowledge base in clinical operations and statistical analysis and ethical leadership skills influenced by comprehensive curriculum and working experts as faculty. Equips students to serve in a diversity of roles in 1-4 years.
Online Bachelor of Science in Social Work LocationSouth Euclid, OH Accreditation(s)HLC, HLC (Pursuing CSWE) Religious AffiliationCatholic Cost Per Credit$475: One of only two schools in the greater-Cleveland area to offer the Bachelor of Science in Social Work, Notre Dame College is also accepting students with no wait-list. The degree program offers the kind of field practicum that leads to job placement, prepared to become a Licensed Independent Social Worker soon after graduation.
Online Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Applied Science in Accounting LocationFayetteville, NC Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, ACBSP, AACN, DPI, AACSB Religious AffiliationMethodist Cost Per Credit$400: Methodist University offers a Bachelor of Science that produces graduates with financial and economic expertise in business growth and earning while the 62-Credit Bachelor of Applied Science in Accounting is an alternative to advancing your associate degree. Both fully-online, graduates are eligible for Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exams in several states including North Carolina.
Online Bachelor of Social Work LocationFayetteville, NC Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, ACBSP, AACN, DPI, CSWE Religious AffiliationMethodist Cost Per Credit$400: MU’s online Bachelor of Social Work degree delivers a multi-faceted that leaves graduates prepared academically, emotionally, and with needed accreditation for a meaningful career of impact and advocacy. Dedicated, experienced faculty deliver a highly specialized program designed to generate critical thinking, practical solutions, and outcomes of socio-economic justice resulting from advanced decision-making capabilities in the field. In addition to an interdisciplinary curricular approach covering courses in biology, psychology, and sociology, this Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited and NC-CWEC recognized program provides active internship opportunities qualifying participating students for Child Welfare placements upon graduation.
Online Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity Degree LocationLa Grande, OR Accreditation(s)NWCCU, IACBE, NWCCU Religious AffiliationPublic Cost Per Credit$265: The online Bachelor’s of Cybersecurity degree at EOU offers a high-credit transfer rate which students can tailor into a B.S., B.A., or B.A.S. and graduate in 2-4 years depending on your academic history. EOU’s curriculum allows students to forego traditional math, research, or theory heavy paths in favor of practical cyber skills and computer knowledge. Skills taught in the program focus on high demand areas such as access management, data privacy and security, threat intelligence, compliance and controls and incident response. Graduate with the needed degree to sit for the CISSP certification exam and eligibility to fill a range of cyber roles.
Online RN to BS 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.
Online RN to BSN 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.
RN to BSN 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.
RN to BSN 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.
RN to BSN 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.
RN to BSN 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.
RN to BSN 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.
RN to BSN 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.
RN to BSN LocationSouth Euclid, OH Accreditation(s)HLC Religious AffiliationCatholic Cost Per Credit$375: 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.
RN to BSN 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.
RN to BSN 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.
RN to BSN 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.
RN to BSN 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.
RN to BSN LocationLas Vegas , NM Accreditation(s)HLC, CCNE, CSWE, ACBSP, CCNE Religious Affiliation– Cost Per Credit$325: Required by many health care facilities, an RN-BSN helps you land leadership positions in a variety of services. New Mexico Highlands Universitysupports professionals already serving in these roles with flexible entry and learning you can complete when and where you’re able. Students may receive up to 95 transfer credits for their associate degree and RN license, reducing the time and cost to earn a BSN. Graduate prepared for social work licensure and ready to take the ASWB national exam in as few as 24 months.
RN to BSN LocationMobile, AL Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, SACSCOC/CCNE Religious AffiliationChristian Cost Per Credit$399: Spring Hill College offers a Bachelor of Nursing (BSN) degree designed for RNs who hold an associate degree or diploma in nursing to prepare them for leadership in the healthcare delivery system. The BSN program combines online courses and clinical integration with local preceptors to allow nurses to complete degree requirements in their local communities and work settings. Working with healthcare partners, the BSN program enables nurses to learn by applying new concepts and approaches to their own professional practice.
RN to BSN LocationLivingston, AL Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, ACEN Religious Affiliation– Cost Per Credit$325: Build on your active career and nursing skills or qualify for advancing in a variety of professional opportunities by completing the University of Western Alabama’s RN to BSN. Learn from a faculty of nursing experts guiding you in curriculum that offers a rich assessment of nursing theory, health assessment, and community health, including evidence-based practices and leadership. Study in a flexible online format designed for ASN-qualified nurses seeking advancement and working RNs pursuing a bachelor’s level credential.
RN to BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) LocationNorthfield , VT Accreditation(s)NECHE, CCNE Religious AffiliationN/A Cost Per CreditCivilian $375 Active Duty $250: Whether you want to enhance your skills, prepare for a master’s degree, or expand into a different healthcare field, Norwich University’s RN to BSN degree completion program addresses the specific learning needs to deepen nursing knowledge, leadership skills, and evidence-based practice to better serve patients, the community, and your career. Coursework provides the means to improve skills in diagnosing and evaluating nursing interventions, and positively impact patient outcomes in a demanding healthcare industry. Delve into professional research, care models, leadership, management, and participation in the policy process in a program designed for nurses with an unencumbered RN license issued in the U.S. or any NCSBN associated jurisdiction. Upon completion, graduates are positioned to fast-track to NU’s M.S.N.
RN to MSN 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.
RN to MSN 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