A growing number of healthcare facilities, including one-quarter of U.S. hospitals, are now requiring registered nurses to hold a bachelor’s degree. Even more employers, around 70 percent, strongly prefer to hire RNs with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). However, not everyone has the time, money, or flexibility to attend nursing school full-time—especially seasoned RNs with already-established careers. In order to keep up with the increasing demands, many beg the question: “Can I get my BSN online?” 

Distance learning has spiked in popularity over the last decade, with many reputable degree programs now being offered in online formats. Employers also recognize the value of an online education more than ever before. However, in practical fields like nursing—where technical knowledge, interpersonal skills, and hands-on experience are so critical to the work—the concept of an online degree gets tricky. Online nursing degrees are an option for some, but not all, people looking to earn their BSN. 

Let’s explore the different types of BSN programs and which are available online. We’ll also discuss how employers view online BSN programs, and who should steer clear of pursuing this type of degree.

What types of BSN programs are available to you?

There are several different types of BSN degree programs out there, some of which are offered online. The right BSN for you will depend on your level of experience and education within nursing so far. 

• Entry-level, pre-license BSN programs

Pre-license BSN programs are designed for students who are brand-new to nursing and looking to earn their RN credentials. Typically, these students are recently out of high school (or coming out of a gap in schooling) and requiring the full scope of training needed to become a nurse. They are just starting their college career, and needing to earn their RN credentials alongside a four-year degree.

Because these BSN programs are offered at the entry-level, with candidates having no prior college or nursing experience, they are typically unavailable online. Rather, students need to attend classes, labs, and clinicals in-person, where they can put learned skills to practice in real healthcare settings. 

In your research for a BSN program, you might come across schools that market their programs as an “online” offering. However, if the BSN program is entry-level and designed for up-and-coming nurses, just remember that the program cannot be 100% online. Hands-on, in-person training is needed to become a registered nurse. In nursing school, prospective RNs need to complete clinicals on-site. Additionally, many BSN schools will require students to complete a handful of intensive courses in-person, to hone their technical skills. So, be sure to read the fine print.

• RN-to-BSN programs

RN-to-BSN programs are post-license programs designed for registered nurses who hold an RN license. Qualifying individuals have completed the schooling required to become an RN, as well as gained experience working with patients and providers in a medical environment. They know how to interact with patients, operate medical equipment, and carry out procedural tasks. They have the fundamental nursing skills, but wish to go back to school and advance their careers with a BSN.

RN-to-BSN programs, therefore, are considered bridge programs. They give extra credits to RNs who have already taken college courses and training upfront. These credits can speed up the time it takes to complete a BSN, and provide more flexibility into how the BSN is earned.

In other words, RN-to-BSN programs are often offered in flexible, online formats. Understanding how busy nurses can be, and how much their schedules can vary, RN-to-BSN programs make going back to school accessible for the working RN. They offer online courses, part-time scheduling options, and asynchronous classes so that RNs can learn at their own pace (and in their own space). Plus, because RNs already have hands-on, clinical experience, no in-person learning is required! Most RN-to-BSN programs, like Goodwin’s, can be completed 100% online.

• Accelerated BSN programs

Accelerated BSN (ABSN) programs are designed for aspiring nurses who already have a bachelor’s degree in another field, but desire a career change. These individuals are entering the nursing field for the first time, but already have four years of college under their belts. Because of this postsecondary experience, ABSN students can complete their Bachelor’s in Nursing at an accelerated pace.

In an ABSN program, it’s generally understood that students are older—they are earning their second degree, after all. Because of this, ABSN students also tend to have other obligations, like families they need to care for or jobs they need to maintain. These factors create a need for flexibility, which many ABSN programs offer.

While Accelerated BSN programs cannot be entirely online, students will typically find that some classes can be taken in an online format. For example, at Goodwin, the ABSN program includes a blend of online and on-ground classes. However, because ABSN students do not have prior nursing experience, clinical placements are required, and these must be done in person. Nursing clinicals give prospective RNs the chance to practice their skills in real healthcare settings, and become familiar with the patient care field before diving in.

Interested in earning a nursing degree online at Goodwin University? Explore our programs here!

Can you get a BSN online?

Yes, you can earn your BSN online. However, you must have nursing experience in order to do so.

If you have completed an associate degree, hold an RN license, and have hands-on experience in clinical settings, you can get a BSN online. You do not need to commute to class, because you’ve already done that once! With an online RN-to-BSN program, you can focus your energy on advancing your healthcare knowledge and honing skills like critical-thinking and leadership. You do not need to complete general education courses or in-person experiences. You can work towards your BSN 100% online, while also maintaining your job and making a living. 

At the end of the day, you are a busy nurse. You deserve this level of flexibility, to be able to complete your classes and assignments—online and at your own pace.

Who shouldn’t get a BSN online?

Anyone who is brand-new to nursing, without RN experience, should avoid an online BSN program. Online BSN programs are designed for skilled nurses looking to grow in their careers. Online BSN programs are not designed for entry-level nurses, because these programs do not meet the minimum requirements for hands-on training and practice.

Will employers be okay with a BSN online?

Yes, employers place a high value on BSN-educated nurses, including those that complete their BSN degree online. 

Several organizations, including the Institute of Medicine and American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), report that a BSN education is correlated to better patient outcomes. Whether RNs earned their BSN degree online or in-person is somewhat null, because these nurses have taken the initiative to continue their education outside of their already-working hours. They understand how to balance, how to time manage, and how to stay accountable in both their work and academics. Any employer will see value in that level of drive and commitment to the nursing field.

Not only this, but online degree programs are becoming increasingly common, and therefore normal to see, on a resume. Currently, almost three million students are enrolled in fully online, undergraduate degree programs, while nearly five million students are enrolled in at least one online undergrad class. A recent U.S. News article cites that many of the most popular majors at online colleges are in a health-related field. Of course, pursuing an online nursing program at an accredited institution is preferred.

What are the benefits of getting a BSN online?

The value of a BSN degree has skyrocketed in recent years. Today, a BSN degree can qualify nurses for advanced job titles, high salary potential, and the opportunity to specialize in certain areas. A BSN degree is also becoming a standard requirement, or expectation, in many employment settings.

While the benefits of a BSN are clear, obtaining this level of degree is not always feasible. Four years of college can often feel out of reach. Traveling to campus, or paying a big-campus tuition, can feel like too big a commitment for many current and prospective RNs. As such, flexible and online BSN programs are highly sought after. But, as explored above, only a few types exist.

For registered nurses with experience, online RN-to-BSN programs offer incredible benefits. By earning your BSN online, you can maintain your current career, complete your classes remotely, and earn your degree on a schedule that meets your needs. Let’s explore this, and other benefits of an online BSN program, below.

• Earning a BSN online means greater flexibility.

As you probably know, nurses don’t always have the most flexible schedule. Hours vary place-to-place, and long shifts aren’t uncommon in a critical care setting. If you have other priorities at home, such as family, on top of your job, it can be even harder to commit to college. Online RN-to-BSN programs, however, allow you the flexibility to complete courses and assignments on your own time, at your own pace, and in the comfort of your own home. At Goodwin University, you can get your BSN online in a matter of 16 months, part-time, if you’re already a registered nurse.

• You can still work while going back to school.

Online programs mean that you don’t have to put your life on hold to go back to nursing school. You can still work full-time or part-time while working towards your BSN – whichever you prefer! Rest assured that Goodwin’s RN-to-BSN online program has been designed around the busy lifestyles of RNs, with part-time semester options available. We understand that it can be hard to make it to class after a long day on your feet, so we aim to make learning as accessible as possible for you.

• You will earn a comprehensive, quality education.

Some nurses worry that earning a BSN online will mean sacrificing a quality education. The truth is, when you choose an accredited, online nursing school, the quality of instruction remains the same. Goodwin University’s online RN to BSN program, for example, is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Our instructors and our coursework are held to the highest level of standards for a quality education.

The online BSN curriculum at Goodwin involves a variety of advanced-level classes, such as Leadership and Management in Nursing, Healthcare Policy and Advocacy, and Community Health Nursing. Upon completion of their coursework, BSN graduates are prepared to practice in hospitals, schools, home health care settings, physicians’ offices, and more.

A call for RNs to get their BSNs

Earning a BSN online can open many doors for registered nurses, without sacrificing a lot of time or expense. Online programs are typically more affordable than on-campus classes, and at Goodwin University, you will know the fixed cost of your BSN tuition before you start classes. Online RN-to-BSN programs can also be completed in less than two years’ time, in a part-time format, and entirely online.

That said, is there any reason not to pursue a BSN online?

In your career thus far, you have already gained great clinical experience in healthcare settings. Now, you have the chance to further your experience as a nurse by focusing on professional development: By earning your BSN online while working full- or part-time, you will be granted the opportunity to grow. You can continue building relationships inside the industry, closing any gaps in your nursing skillset, and learning the latest developments within the nursing field, all from the comforts of your home.

Goodwin University’s online RN-to-BSN program is available to residents of Connecticut and other SARA states. Find out more about earning your BSN online by calling 800-889-3282 or visiting us online at www.goodwin.edu/bsn.