When registered nurses with associate degrees explore career growth opportunities in the nursing field, they can expect to find that increasing numbers of employers prefer candidates with a bachelor of science in nursing. Many nurses turn to online RN to BSN degree programs to advance their careers when they can’t find time in their schedules to attend traditional classes. Online BSN degree programs are not easier than traditional BSN programs, but they offer working adults the flexibility they need to earn a BSN. BSN degree programs typically require students to complete general education and prerequisite courses such as developmental psychology, sociology, expository writing and statistics. Most RN to BSN students complete some required courses as a part of their associate degree programs. To find out which associate degree level courses transfer to an online RN to BSN degree program, admissions advisers assess applicant transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities. Classes that BSN students have not yet taken, become a part of the BSN student’s individualized degree curriculum. BSN students can take most general education and prerequisite courses online through the school that offers the RN to BSN program. Students may also however take some courses at a different institution. For example, students might need to take some science prerequisite courses such as chemistry, and microbiology at an institution closer to home, if the course also includes lab work. RN to BSN students who plan to take general education and prerequisite courses at different schools should always check with their program academic adviser first to make sure that the courses are transferable before they sign up. After prerequisite coursework is complete, students take specialized nursing courses in their major. Nursing courses include subjects of special interest to registered nurses such as gerontology, nurse informatics and health care policy. Generally speaking, students work on their own to read nursing course materials, and to complete course assignments. Professors interact with their online classes primarily through discussion boards, but are usually available to answer individual student questions by phone, or by email. BSN students can expect nursing courses to be rigorous, but the online delivery method can be rewarding for students who welcome the opportunity to work and research nursing subject matter on their own. Like traditional BSN programs, online RN to BSN program students complete their degree with a capstone project to demonstrate their special interest in an area of nursing relevant to their future career goals.
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