Earning a bachelor’s degree in nursing can lead to a variety of opportunities in advanced practice roles, leadership positions, certifications and specialized career paths. As a registered nurse (RN) interested in pursuing a bachelor’s degree, you may assume you must pause your career to return to school, but RN to BSN bridge programs make it possible to continue working while earning a degree to advance your career.
The online Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Northern Kentucky University offers flexibility to suit your schedule and lifestyle. By building on your existing clinical knowledge and nursing experience, the program enables you to complete your degree efficiently and advance toward your next professional chapter. This guide explains what you can expect from an online RN to BSN program and how it can help you take the next step in your nursing journey.
Understanding RN to BSN Programs
Prospective nurses can choose from several pathways toward education and licensing. These include two-year Associate of Degree of Nursing (ADN) and Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) programs, two-to-three-year diploma programs and four-year bachelor’s degrees. Nurses who begin their careers with an associate degree or diploma often decide to pursue a BSN later to expand their career prospects and earning potential. RN to BSN bridge programs are designed specifically for those licensed RNs seeking to build on their existing credentials.
These programs enhance clinical and non-clinical competencies, emphasizing leadership, communication and evidence-based care. Because they recognize your prior experience and training, RN to BSN programs allow you to focus on advanced concepts without repeating foundational coursework. These programs often have accelerated, fully online formats and give you the ability to complete your degree in less time and with greater flexibility than a traditional four-year program.
Benefits of Earning a BSN
Continuing education is a cornerstone of the nursing profession. To successfully deliver quality care, registered nurses must stay current with the latest research, advancements and best practices.
RN to BSN programs provide learning opportunities in a structured format. Completing one can help you strengthen your skills and advance your career. Completing a BSN can bring several benefits:
Expanded Opportunities
A bachelor’s degree is often the minimum requirement for advanced nursing roles. Because BSN programs emphasize leadership, many employers reserve nurse executive, management and supervisor positions for candidates with a BSN, with an MSN being preferred or required in some cases.
Earning a BSN may also qualify you for specialty practice areas and certifications that require a bachelor’s degree. Examples include the Certified Occupational Health Nurse-Specialist (COHN-S) credential from the American Board for Occupational Health Nurses, Inc. (ABOHN) and the Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nursing Certification (WOC) granted by the WOC Nursing Certification Board (WOCNCBP).
Growing Demand
Employers are increasingly seeking registered nurses with a BSN. In fact, 28% of employers require new nursing graduates to hold a bachelor’s degree, while 72% strongly prefer candidates with one.
Demand remains high for experienced RNs. Graduating from an RN to BSN program may make you a more competitive candidate when applying for nursing positions with your current employer or with other hospitals, clinics or practices.
Professional Development
RN to BSN bridge programs expand clinical and nonclinical skill sets. The clinical aspect of online nursing programs sharpens critical thinking and evidence-based decision-making, improving patient outcomes.
Nonclinical components of BSN programs also contribute to professional development. For example, building your communication skills can help you collaborate with other healthcare professionals more effectively to raise the overall quality of care that you deliver to your patients.
Preparation for Future Education
A BSN can be a gateway to rewarding positions as an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN). Although requirements vary, APRNs usually need a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or other graduate-level degree. In many cases, these graduate-level programs require a bachelor’s degree.
A BSN may also be a prerequisite for other graduate degrees and certificates. Earning one may help you prepare to enroll in academic programs related to nurse education, administration or leadership.
What You’ll Learn in an RN to BSN Program
In an RN to BSN program, you can expect to strengthen your clinical competencies. Most programs cover core nursing concepts in research and patient-centered care. Coursework in community health, professional ethics and healthcare policy is also common.
Along with clinical and regulatory topics, bridge programs for RNs teach subjects that reinforce soft nursing skills. For example, instruction in cultural competence can improve interpersonal skills and encourage empathy. RN to BSN programs also commonly include classes and assignments that develop management and decision-making skills.
Flexibility of Online RN to BSN Programs
Specifically designed to accommodate full-time working nurses, RN to BSN programs provide a uniquely flexible learning opportunity. Most feature asynchronous coursework rather than requiring you to attend remote classes on particular days at specific times. In this way, bridge programs allow learning on your schedule.
In an online RN to BSN program, you can connect with faculty virtually to seek clarification or deepen your understanding of class material. Coursework also usually provides opportunities for peer collaboration, so you can network with other RNs and learn from their experiences.
Earn Your BSN Online
A BSN degree can prepare you for graduate-level nursing programs, leadership positions and specialized care opportunities, while helping you sharpen your clinical judgment to support positive patient outcomes. An online RN to BSN bridge program allows you to build on your existing experience and earn your degree with greater speed and flexibility.
Northern Kentucky University’s RN to BSN program features a flexible online format, giving you the freedom to continue working and meeting personal obligations while pursuing your bachelor’s degree. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and is a high-quality, affordable pathway to your next career milestone. Apply today and continue your professional development as an RN.
