Information About Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree Programs
Higher Education Articles August 27, 2014Receive information about a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree program and its educational requirements, coursework, job and wage outlook, and continuing education choices.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Degree Programs
Students enrolled in RN to BSN degree programs can complete them within a year of full-time study. Those who do not wish to give up their jobs as registered nurses can avail shortened programs through passage of the National Council Licensing Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) and completion of prior training.
Educational Requirements
Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a GED certificate or high school diploma augmented by licensing and previous RN training. Licensure norms require candidates to hold an associate degree in nursing or a diploma. Most RN to BSN programs will require incoming students to complete a combination of collegiate science-related coursework, in addition to humanities and mathematics. The amount of time it takes to complete a program will vary depending on the schools and educational requirements in accordance with the previous training and education completed by students.
Coursework
These degree programs combine clinical experiences and classroom instruction, including courses offered online for those currently employed as nurses. Core coursework may include topic areas such as:
•Nursing statistics
•Health policy
•Nurse leadership
•Healthcare management
•Microbiology
•Nutrition
•Physiology and anatomy
•Nursing theory and practice
•Health assessment
•Research design and methods
Job and Wage Outlook
Over the 2012 – 2022 decade, job growth rates of 19% have been predicted for RNs (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). In May 2012, RNs brought home an average annual wage of $65,470 (BLS).
Continuing Education Choices
Graduates from the bachelor’s degree program can seek continued education by earning a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree. Professional nurses can complete an MSN degree program and gain career opportunities in academia, wherein they can pursue advanced practice nurse or nurse educator positions, including nurse practitioners or clinical nurse specialists. There are different continuing education requirements for each career choice, in addition to potential certification that can optimize career and income prospects.
