Nurses are one of, if not the most essential part of the healthcare system and industry, providing care to patients and acting as patient advocates throughout their journeys. And the employment rate for registered nurses is expected to grow six percent by 2032, resulting in an average of 193,100 job openings per year.
With a faster-than-average employment growth rate, it’s no surprise that current and aspiring registered nurses enroll in Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) degree programs.
Below, we’ll unpack five benefits of an RN to BSN track.
What is an RN to BSN program?
RN to BSN programs are flexible degrees designed for already licensed nurses who have completed an Associate degree in Nursing (ADN).
These nurses, often looking to expand their career, skill set, and educational mobility, now qualify for degree advancement and advanced, accelerated education through a RN to BSN degree program.
Students in these programs must complete credits in general education, basic nursing, upper-level nursing, leadership, management, community health, and more. They must also complete a capstone project to graduate.
Typical RN to BSN courses in an online degree program include:
- Community Health
- Nursing and Healthcare Informatics
- Nursing Theory and Evidence-Based Practice
- Population and Global Health
- Quality, Safety/Health Policy
While RN to BSN program length will vary depending on the school and the number of transfer credits a student has, many students complete their RN to BSN degrees in a short period of time. Students should also look for in-person or online programs where they can transfer their previously earned nursing credits from other institutions, helping to limit the amount of time needed to complete their degree.
For example, at University of Bridgeport, students can transfer up to ninety credits from an accredited institution and complete the online RN to BSN track program in one academic year plus a summer semester.
What are the benefits of an RN to BSN program?
There are many benefits of completing an RN to BSN program, including receiving a higher pay scale, climbing the career ladder, gaining a comprehensive knowledge base, having more job opportunities, and improving patient outcomes.
Higher pay scale
Opportunity for a high annual salary is one of the many reasons why current and aspiring registered nurses enroll in Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree programs.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), registered nurses make a median annual salary of $81,220, with the highest ten percent earning more than $129,400.
Furthermore, employers are willing and more likely to pay individuals with advanced degrees more money as they recognize and value candidates’ additional knowledge and expertise.
Climbing the career ladder
RN to BSN degrees also lead to more job opportunities, allowing candidates to apply for management positions that give them more responsibility as well as higher salaries.
Graduates are more qualified and equipped to conduct research, manage care teams, and serve as health educators.
Many RNs with this degree also find increased autonomy in decision-making and pursue positions such as nurse managers, nursing directors, and clinical research coordinators.
Comprehensive knowledge base
While an associate degree in Nursing (ADN) provides a good foundation and can be completed in a short amount of time, a Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) degree offers a deeper understanding of the field.
Students gain advanced training in their chosen specialty and participate in more clinical hours under the guidance of experienced professionals.
Graduates of these programs also have the following learning outcomes:
- Deliver patient-centered care: Applying the nursing process with the latest evidence-based practices
- Embrace innovation: Utilizing technology and research to improve patient outcomes
- Lead effectively: Demonstrating strong leadership and management skills to ensure high-quality, cost-effective care
More job opportunities
Those who have completed their RN to BSN track go on to senior positions, including nurse managers, nursing directors, and different leadership roles, as well as research positions and specializations at an institution or university.
They also find work in office and administrative roles, as well as specialties at clinics and other healthcare settings.
Careers include:
- Case management nurse
- Clinical nurse specialist
- Clinical research nurse
- Nurse educator
- Nursing director
- Nurse manager
- Public health nurse
- Quality assurance or improvement coordinator
See how a BSN from UB can open doors to new opportunities and leadership roles.
Improved patient outcomes
Nurses with their ADN degree provide exceptional care, but RN to BSN programs elevate the quality of service these nurses offer.
The advanced coursework prepares nurses with a deeper understanding of public health, evidence-based practices, and the latest technological advancements, making them more attractive to employers.
Their training and education lead to an enhanced ability to handle complex healthcare situations arising from:
- Growing healthcare complexities
- Increased demand for collaborative and community care
- Legislative changes
- Needs of an aging population
Take the next steps in your nursing career with a RN to BSN degree
If you are a registered nurse seeking RN to BSN program, University of Bridgeport is here to help.
Our online RN to BSN program is designed with the working professional and student in mind. The RN to BSN track offers maximum flexibility, consisting of seven-week sessions and six-term start dates a year.
Financial aid is available, and our comprehensive support services are here to help you get through college and into a great career.
Apply now or contact us for more information!
It’s time to experience the University of Bridgeport difference!
