Roughly 70 percent of registered nurses (RNs) today hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or higher, and it’s no wonder why. The vast majority of employers now prefer to hire RNs with a BSN degree, and a growing number are even starting to require it. Where an associate degree has historically been the standard, many nurses are now feeling called to go back to school for their bachelor’s degree. But how can they, while still working full-time?

Online RN-to-BSN programs make it possible for registered nurses to go back to school on a schedule that works for them. These programs are designed for already-licensed RNs who need flexible courses and a short-term commitment to college. And the best RN-to-BSN programs? They offer online and part-time completion options to accommodate the busy nurse.

There are hundreds of RN-to-BSN programs out there, helping nurses expand their skills and practice. So, how do you choose the program that’s right for you?

Below, we outline some of the top qualities and components to look for in an RN-to-BSN program. These include:

• Accreditation
• Affordability
• Career support
• Comprehensive curriculum
• Continuing education opportunities
• Program flexibility

Now, let’s find the best RN-to-BSN program for you!

Features of the best RN-to-BSN programs

Accreditation

Perhaps the single, most important thing to look for in an RN-to-BSN program is accreditation. Accreditation is essentially a stamp of approval, granted by a third-party organization, that confirms a program is of the highest quality. It means that a program has met or exceeded a number of academic standards related to the curriculum, teaching, graduation rates, and more.

Not every school offers accredited nursing programs, and online programs especially are not always accredited. So it’s important to do your research.

Accredited RN-to-BSN programs position students for great success, academically and in their future careers. In fact, many employers will look at program accreditation when hiring their nursing staff. Accreditation also plays an important role in whether or not you can qualify for federal financial aid or be able to transfer credits to a future degree program.

Goodwin University’s online RN-to-BSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), meaning our classes, professors, policies, and standings have met the highest standards of excellence.

Affordability

When considering going back to school for a bachelor’s degree, it’s normal to get nervous about the costs. College is a major investment. Fortunately, because of the short-term nature of the RN-to-BSN, these programs are more affordable than the traditional, four-year bachelor’s degree.

Keep in mind that the best RN-to-BSN programs are not necessarily the most expensive ones. At the end of the day, the best program will propel you into professional and financial success, not bog you down with unexpected student debt. With that in mind, look for an RN-to-BSN program that offers financial aid opportunities – like grants, scholarships, loans – to help offset tuition costs.

Goodwin University boasts one of the lowest tuition costs for private, non-profit colleges in the state of Connecticut. Our RN-to-BSN program is very affordable for working RNs, largely due to the flexibility of the program. At Goodwin, you can get many types of financial aid assistance—Most of our students do! And, with our fixed tuition model, you will know the total cost of your BSN degree, start to finish, before you even begin classes. That means no unexpected student debt.

Career support

Not all RN-to-BSN programs are the same, so it’s important to find one that aligns with your career goals. For example, some programs might have specific areas of focus. Some might lean more into the clinical side of nursing, while others might explore leadership topics and opportunities. With that in mind, think about where you want to see your nursing career go—the best RN-to-BSN program will get you there.

Additionally, look for a nursing school or program that will support you in your career trajectory, not just in your classes. The best schools will have Career Services and a team of support staff ready to help you meet your goals. At Goodwin, for example, RN-to-BSN students (and graduates) have access to:

• Cover letter and resume support
• Interview preparation
• Job application help
• Job placement services
• Job search assistance
• Networking opportunities

In addition, we also have an extensive network of healthcare employers that are ready to take you on with a BSN in hand. Our career placement services are free of cost, forever.

With the added investment to school and your RN-to-BSN, you deserve to land the job of your dreams. The right school will make that possible.

Learn how to become a BSN nurse here!

Continuing education opportunities

Nursing is a career that involves lifelong learning. RNs constantly need to stay up on the latest treatments, technologies, standards, and guidelines. They often need to fulfill ongoing education requirements to maintain their licensure. And, like you, many nurses have a drive to go back to school to expand their skills further, through BSN and MSN bridge programs.

That’s why, as you evaluate various RN-to-BSN programs, we recommend choosing one that sets you up for long-term learning and success. Specifically, a school that offers other types of nursing degrees or advanced programs to help you progress later in your career. For example, if you have dreams of becoming an APRN someday, or hope to become a leader in nursing or public health, look for a nursing school that offers graduate degree programs aligned with your professional goals. It’s often easier to move from program to program within the same school, rather than changing schools entirely after the completion of your bachelor’s degree.

Program flexibility

Nurses are busy—we know that, and so do you! As an RN, you understand the long days and scheduling demands that come with a nursing career. That is why you deserve an RN-to-BSN program that works around your schedule, rather than a program you’d have to work around.

The best RN-to-BSN programs, therefore, offer online flexibility at a minimum. Online courses enable nurses to complete their degree from the comfort of their own home (or break room!). Wherever you are, you can listen to lectures, complete assignments, collaborate with peers and professors, and stay on track despite everyday job demands. Through online RN-to-BSN courses, students can create their own learning environments and work how they work best (through visuals, audio, note-taking, what-have-you), all at their own pace.

Equally important is the option to complete your RN-to-BSN degree on a part-time schedule. Because, more than likely, you’re already working full-time! Part-time programs enable you to continue working while earning your degree. You can keep your career, take care of family obligations, and maintain a balanced life while advancing in your profession all at once.

At Goodwin University, the RN-to-BSN program can be completed online and part-time. Students can customize their class schedule based on their needs and complete their degree in as few as 12 months.

How to choose the best RN-to-BSN program for you

While there are certain non-negotiables (like accreditation), the best RN-to-BSN program for you will come down to your individual needs, preferences, and goals. As you research your options, ask yourself:

• What are my long-term career goals? Will this BSN program/school support those goals?
• What type of environment and schedule will enable me to learn best? Does the program offer the flexibility I need?
• How much can I afford to spend on an RN-to-BSN program, and are financial aid opportunities available?

With a BSN degree now being expected by the majority of nursing employers today, it’s important to find a program that can position you for long-term success. However, it’s up to you to define what “success” really means.

Learn about Goodwin’s leading RN-to-BSN program

Research shows that nurses who complete RN-to-BSN programs show enhanced assessment skills, critical thinking abilities, improved communication, and better patient outcomes. If you’re considering an RN-to-BSN program, it could be monumental for your career.

Goodwin University is a recognized nursing school with a top online RN-to-BSN program. While Goodwin is located in Connecticut, we’re a member of SARA, meaning our online RN-to-BSN program is available to residents of other SARA states.

If you’re interested in learning more about the benefits of our program, or how we can help you advance as an RN, do not hesitate to reach out. Call 800-889-3282 today or request more information here.