Degree Options
Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree Completion Program
Overview
The RN to BSN Completion Program is designed for registered nurses (RNs) whose highest academic credential is an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree or a nursing diploma. Students must provide evidence of current nurse (RN) licensure in any state where the student is practicing for the purpose of completing clinical course requirements. Because the program is flexible—students can enter the program in the fall, spring, or summer, taking distance accessible courses—it is perfect for those who want to continue their nursing education while maintaining their current work and/or family responsibilities.
Curriculum and career preparation
As a BSN student, you’ll learn current trends in health care and develop the knowledge and skills necessary to adapt to these trends through changing practice. With a comprehensive academic foundation in the sciences and humanities, you’ll be well-prepared to meet the current and future health needs of society.
Your studies will focus on the following areas:
- Health promotion
- Disease prevention
- Health restoration
- Health maintenance
- Management of individuals/families coping with acute and chronic illness
Because this program builds on the courses you have already completed, you’ll also receive credit for many of the general education courses completed as part of your ASN or diploma program.
Advantages of the RN to BSN Completion Program
As part of the flexibility of the program, courses are available online, so students are not required to travel to campus for class. In some cases, the general education courses may be completed through Indiana University’s distance education programs or at another college/university in your area, with credits transferred to the School of Nursing's RN to BSN Completion Program.
The program is based upon a cohort model which means that you are part of a group of RNs who will progress through the program together. This allows us to offer course work systematically in order to streamline your academic progress.
Additional advantages of this option include:
- Take classes from the comfort of home
- Access course information online 23-24 hours a day (the university course management system, Oncourse, generally undergoes maintenance from 5-6 a.m.)
- Complete course assignments at times convenient for you
- Learn where you work
- Build academic minors or majors in other areas, such as business or psychology
- Create your own unique capstone nursing experience
- Develop skills for lifelong learning
A portfolio option is available to students who believe they meet the outcomes of specific courses through prior learning and/or professional nursing experience. Through a portfolio review process, you may be able to meet course requirements by documenting evidence of your nursing skills and experience.
Special Credit Courses
Following successful completion of the first semester of RN-BSN courses, 35 special credits are awarded. In order to receive a BSN degree, your official transcript must reflect fulfillment of all requirements, including 35 special credits. A special credit fee is set by the university and will be assessed at $20/credit hour. The special credit courses will appear on your transcript with a grade of S (Satisfactory.)
For more information about the curriculum, please see the Degree Requirements for this program.
Contact us
For more information about the RN to BSN Completion Program, please contact the Center for Academic Affairs.
1111 Middle Drive, NU 122
Indianapolis, IN 46202
(317) 274-2806
Helen McKuras
Undergraduate Academic Advisor, RN to BSN Advisor
hmckuras [at] iupui [dot] edu
