Online RN to BSN Degree

Online RN to BSN Degree

Transitioning to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is oft-sought career move for nursing professionals who wish to take their careers to the next level. Becoming an RN is certainly a challenge but the prospects of career advancement and greater income are obviously enhanced with the completion of a BSN. Such training is necessary due to the enormous amount of specialization RNs must become familiar with. Rather than performing basic healthcare functions like LPNs, RNs can perform a variety of more advanced functions and work in more areas such as emergency rooms, trauma centers, burn units, operating rooms, and others.


You should be prepared to spend about four years pursuing your BSN, though often some of the education credits, work experience, and other formal training you receive prior may count towards your degree. In many cases, those holding existing degrees often prove to have the fastest route to a BSN and can complete an accelerated course in 12-18 months. Individuals holding a BSN are typically qualified for a greater choice of career programs including positions in administrative positions. Additionally, a BSN is prerequisite should the individual want to pursue greater specialization and earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).

Upon completion of your degree, you will need to be licensed by the state to practice. All states, including the District of Columbia require potential RNs to pass the NCLEX-RN licensing exam. Those planning on becoming an RN should exhibit a caring and compassionate nature, be emotionally stable and observant. It's generally helpful to have excellent communication skills and be equipped to make decisions easily. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that career opportunities for RNs are supposed to increase 23-percent through 2016. Nursing is by far the largest career in the health care profession. Annual median salaries for RNs were over $60,000 in 2007.