2026 What Classes Are Required for an RN to BSN? Course Requirements
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Accomplishing higher education is becoming the standard in nursing, as many healthcare employers now prefer or require a BSN for registered nurses. Consequently, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) recorded a 4.9% BSN program enrollment in 2024, adding more than 12,000 students.
Familiarizing yourself with the requirements for RN to BSN classes is crucial if you're considering enrolling in one. To know what to expect in this path, continue reading this detailed guide.
Key things you should know about RN to BSN programs
- BSN-prepared nurses are eligible for positions in public health, research, education, and leadership.
- Data from October 2024 indicates that RNs with a BSN earn an average annual salary of $125,323, while those with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) earn $80,707.
- Full-time students can complete the program in as little as one year, while part-time students may take three to four years.
Table of Contents
- Do online RN to BSN programs have different course requirements than campus programs? Course Requirements
- What prerequisites are required to apply to an RN to BSN program? Program Prerequisites
- What core nursing courses are required in an RN-to-BSN curriculum? Core Courses
- What statistical and research skills are taught in RN-to-BSN courses? What statistical and research skills are taught in RN-to-BSN courses?
- What healthcare policy or ethics classes are part of RN-to-BSN requirements? Healthcare Policy Classes
- What population health topics do RN to BSN courses cover? Population Health Topics
- What will I learn in an RN to BSN informatics course? Informatics
- Do RN to BSN programs require a clinical practicum or capstone course? Practicum Requirement
- How many clinical hours are required to complete an RN-to-BSN program? How many clinical hours are required to complete an RN-to-BSN program?
- Can RN to BSN students take specialty tracks? Can RN to BSN students take specialty tracks?
- How long does it take to finish an RN to BSN? How long does it take to finish an RN to BSN?
- How much do RN to BSN programs cost? Average Cost
Do online RN to BSN programs have different course requirements than campus programs?
Online RN to BSN classes basically have the same course requirements as their on-campus counterparts. The two formats teach nursing theory, research, community health, and healthcare policy. Their only difference is the delivery method: online programs offer asynchronous coursework, while on-campus programs schedule fixed classes and in-person attendance.
The mode of delivery can impact the learning experience. If you're comfortable with learning through digital tools and virtual simulations, enroll in an online program. If you prioritize hands-on experiences and face-to-face interactions with instructors and peers, proceed with an on-campus program.
What prerequisites are required to apply to an RN to BSN program?
Prospective students must submit documents that ensure their readiness for the rigorous coursework and clinical requirements. Below is the list of the RN to BSN prerequisites:
- Registered Nurse (RN) License: Applicants must present a current, active RN license from an accredited nursing program. This proves that applicants have the clinical foundation necessary for nursing education.
- General Education Requirements: Most RN to BSN classes require students to complete some general education courses, such as English, math, and social sciences. Those who took fast track online general studies programs may also qualify.
- Prerequisite Nursing Courses: Other programs may require specific nursing-related courses such as microbiology, anatomy, and physiology. These courses are taken during the RN program, but may need to be fulfilled before applying.
- Minimum GPA: The minimum GPA for this program is around 2.5-3.0. This requirement helps programs gauge whether applicants can handle the curriculum.
- Clinical Experience: Most applicants will have clinical experience from their RN program, but some schools may have additional experience requirements. Clinical hours guarantee that students can apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings.
What core nursing courses are required in an RN to BSN curriculum?
The RN to BSN curriculum builds upon the foundational knowledge nurses gain during their ADN program. These courses blend theoretical concepts with practical applications to keep up with modern healthcare.
Community and Public Health Nursing
This course promotes health at the community and population level, discussing public health issues such as epidemiology and disease prevention. It prepares nurses to work in community settings and collaborate with other health professionals to improve overall community well-being.
Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice
Students learn the principles of nursing research and how to incorporate evidence-based practices into clinical decision-making. This course trains nurses to evaluate research and enhance patient care outcomes.
Leadership and Management in Nursing
This course explores leadership theories and management strategies within healthcare settings. Nurses will develop skills in team coordination, conflict resolution, and resource management. You can check these doctor of behavioral health leadership jobs for future reference.
Healthcare Policy and Ethics
This course emphasizes the ethical considerations and policy frameworks that influence healthcare delivery. It equips nurses with the knowledge to navigate complex ethical dilemmas and advocate for patient rights.
Nursing Informatics
Focused on the integration of technology in healthcare, this course teaches nurses how to use electronic health records (EHR), data analysis, and other informatics tools. It lets nurses leverage technology for better patient care.
The biggest RN employers are state, local, and private hospitals.
What statistical or research skills are taught in RN to BSN courses?
RN to BSN classes incorporate statistical and research expertise to help nurses make data-driven decisions. They instruct nurses how to assess research, apply statistical methods, and use data in clinical decision-making.
- Basic Statistical Analysis: Nurses are introduced to statistical concepts such as mean, median, mode, and standard deviation. These help them interpret data from patient outcomes, surveys, and research studies.
- Data Collection and Interpretation: Students are taught how to collect and interpret both qualitative and quantitative data. Doing so enables them to analyze current and emerging healthcare trends.
- Research Design and Methodology: This course teaches nurses how to design, conduct, and evaluate research studies in the healthcare setting. Nurses learn the importance of choosing appropriate study designs, such as randomized controlled trials or cohort studies, to answer healthcare questions.
- Statistical Software and Tools: Nurses are trained in using major software solutions to review healthcare data. This tech-savviness helps them manage large datasets and produce reliable conclusions.
- Critical Appraisal of Research: Nurses acquire the ability to appraise research literature critically. Then, they apply the best available manifestations to refine patient outcomes and nursing interventions.
What healthcare policy or ethics classes are part of RN to BSN requirements?
One of the benefits of having a BSN degree is learning about healthcare policy and ethics courses, which prepare nurses to deal with complex moral and regulatory challenges. They tackle relevant topics such as patient rights, social justice, and effective healthcare delivery.
Healthcare Policy and Advocacy
This course centers on the role of nurses in shaping healthcare policy and standing up for patient rights at the local, state, and national levels. Nurses learn about health policies, the legislative process, and political advocacy to boost healthcare access and quality.
Ethical Issues in Nursing
Students explore ethical dilemmas commonly faced in clinical practice, such as issues related to autonomy, confidentiality, and informed consent. This course helps nurses design a strong ethical framework for decision-making in patient care.
Healthcare Law and Legal Responsibilities
This course covers the legal aspects of nursing practice, including patient rights, malpractice, and the nurse’s role in complying with regulations. Nurses find out their legal responsibilities, how to get through legal challenges, and protect both themselves and their patients.
Social Justice and Nursing
This course explores the vital role nurses play in advancing equity and fairness within healthcare systems. Students learn to critically analyze how social determinants of health, such as income, race, gender, and geographic location, contribute to disparities in access and outcomes. Emphasis is placed on developing advocacy skills, cultural competence, and ethical decision-making to better support marginalized and vulnerable populations.
End-of-Life Care and Ethics
This course examines the ethical considerations surrounding end-of-life care, such as advanced directives, palliative care, and decision-making in terminal illness. Nurses learn to manage sensitive end-of-life issues with compassion and sensitivity.
What population-health topics do RN to BSN courses cover?
RN to BSN classes produce nurses adept at probing health trends, identifying at-risk populations, and implementing strategies. Nurses are taught how to measure, intervene, and uphold the health of entire populations.
- Epidemiology and Disease Prevention: This course investigates disease patterns in populations, focusing on risk factors and prevention techniques. Nurses learn to apply epidemiological principles to spot health threats and prevent disease spread.
- Health Promotion and Education: Nurses must be able to encourage healthy lifestyles and behaviors across populations. This includes educating communities on nutrition, exercise, and mental health, as well as reducing the incidence of chronic diseases.
- Global Health and Healthcare Systems: This course talks about global health challenges, such as infectious disease outbreaks, healthcare access, and cultural considerations. Nurses discover health disparities worldwide and sort out global health issues.
- Cultural Competency in Healthcare: Nurses become aware of the cultural factors affecting health beliefs and behaviors. This course teaches the importance of delivering patient-centered care that respects cultural diversity and fosters inclusivity.
- Chronic Disease Management: This course focuses on the management of chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease at the population level. Nurses are trained to analyze, monitor, and support patients in treating chronic diseases.
What will I learn in an RN to BSN informatics course?
The nursing informatics course gears registered nurses with the mastery to deploy technology in clinical practice. It bridges the gap between nursing science and information technology, helping nurses oversee and communicate data effectively. For those exploring educational paths, learning what can i do with a masters in special education can highlight the diverse career opportunities available with this advanced degree.
- Understanding of Nursing Informatics: Students will determine the principles of nursing informatics, including the integration of nursing science, computer science, and information science. This knowledge enables nurses to work on data, information, knowledge, and wisdom in nursing practice, as defined by the American Nurses Association
- Application of Technology in Patient Care: The course pays attention to the use of healthcare technologies to provide safe, high-quality, patient-centered care. Nurses will inspect how informatics can streamline the delivery of healthcare services. For those interested in becoming more knowledgeable in this domain, consider these shortest online user experience programs.
- Data Management and Decision-Making: Students will be able to handle patient data and support clinical decision-making with informatics tools. This includes dissecting plans of care, outcomes of care, and healthcare systems.
- Legal and Ethical Considerations: The course embarks on the legal and ethical issues related to the use of informatics in nursing practice. Nurses will be informed about patient privacy, confidentiality, and the ethical implications of technology in healthcare
- Telehealth and Trends in Technologies: Students will dig into the role of technologies, such as telehealth, in expanding healthcare access. The course includes a specialized curriculum on telehealth, reflecting its growing importance in the healthcare landscape.
Do RN to BSN programs require a clinical practicum or capstone course?
Most RN to BSN classes require a clinical practicum or experiential component, and many also mandate a capstone or culminating project course. However, the specifics will vary substantially from one institution to another (mode of delivery, number of hours, settings, etc.).
Clinical Practicum / Experiential Requirement
RN to BSN students complete a practicum, field experience, or clinical component as part of their curriculum. Some programs streamline this to fewer hours. Others may require each clinical course to include a set number of hours. For fully online or distance programs, the practicum may be arranged locally (in a student’s community) or through approved preceptors or partner institutions.
Thus, not every RN to BSN program employs a hospital clinical rotation model similar to an undergraduate BSN program, but practicum or field experience is quite common and is often required.
Capstone / Culminating Project
As a final integrative experience, a capstone course or project is compulsory in many RN to BSN programs. Students are expected to enact the learnings from the program (e.g., research, leadership, community health) into a policy initiative, quality improvement plan, or population health intervention.
How many clinical hours are required to complete an RN to BSN program?
Clinical hour requirements in RN to BSN programs vary widely depending on the school and the program design. While some RN to BSN classes require only a minimal number of hours, others may ask students to complete anywhere from 30 to 150 hours of hands-on practice.
In fact, certain programs waive clinical hours altogether, instead relying on students’ existing professional experience as licensed RNs to demonstrate competency.
The variation is largely tied to program philosophy and goals. Some programs emphasize academic coursework, focusing on leadership, research, and community health theory, while others integrate practical experiences in clinical or community settings to strengthen direct patient care and management skills.
This flexibility allows working nurses to choose a program that best aligns with their career objectives, whether they want to deepen their theoretical knowledge, prepare for leadership roles, or expand their clinical expertise. For those interested in leadership within education, reviewing a special education administrator job description provides insight into responsibilities, licensing requirements, and career paths.
Can RN to BSN students take specialty tracks?
Yes, RN to BSN students are often able to pursue specialty tracks that align with their career goals. These tracks allow nurses to deepen their expertise in particular areas of healthcare, either through elective coursework, targeted clinical placements, or structured pathways that bridge into advanced degrees.
By choosing a specialty, students can position themselves for higher-demand roles, leadership opportunities, or preparation for graduate-level study. For those considering early childhood education as a career path, reviewing associate degree in early childhood education salary provides insight into earning potential at the entry-level.
Many RN to BSN programs offer electives or focused clinical experiences in areas such as:
- Critical Care Nursing – Preparing nurses to manage patients with complex, life-threatening conditions.
- Emergency Medicine – Training for fast-paced environments that demand rapid assessment and intervention.
- Midwifery Foundations – Introducing the principles of maternal and newborn care.
- Nursing Informatics – Focusing on data management, electronic health records, and technology in patient care.
- Occupational Health Nursing – Addressing workplace health, safety, and employee wellness.
In addition, some RN to BSN programs provide pathways for students to transition directly into a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). This seamless option opens doors to advanced specializations such as Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Nursing Education, or Nurse Executive Leadership, allowing motivated nurses to accelerate their professional growth.
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How long does it take to finish an RN to BSN?
For full-time students who have completed all or most general education requirements, many RN to BSN classes can be finished in approximately one year. This typically involves taking about four to five courses per semester over three consecutive semesters, including summer sessions.
Students who opt for part-time study may take two to three courses per semester. This approach extends the program duration to about two years. Some expedited programs, such as the accelerated medical assistant to RN online programs, can be finished in as little as one year.
RN to BSN program enrollment increased by 1.6% in 2024 compared to 2023.
How much do RN to BSN programs cost?
Cost for these programs ranges from $5,000 to $30,000, with many programs falling between $10,000 and $20,000.
Public institutions offer more affordable options. Some programs charge $350 per credit hour for residents, translating to approximately $10,500 for the required 30 credits. Private institutions may have higher tuition rates, with some programs charging up to $1,050 per credit hour, leading to total costs exceeding $60,000.
Students should also budget for textbooks, which can cost between $1,000 and $2,500. There are fees for materials, technology, and clinical requirements, too. Plus, some programs have mandatory fees for lab supplies, NCLEX review sessions, and other resources.
Research individual programs to grasp the full cost structure and available financial support. Scholarships, grants, and employer tuition reimbursement programs can offset costs. Many programs also offer financial assistance to help make education more affordable. For international nurses, exploring NP programs for foreign medical graduates can highlight opportunities and pathways tailored to non-U.S.-trained professionals.
Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Their RN to BSN Degrees
- Elly: "Completing my RN to BSN was a game-changer for my career. The program not only deepened my clinical knowledge but also opened doors to leadership roles that I hadn’t considered before. I feel more confident in my practice and proud to have earned my degree."
- Jake: "Studying for my RN to BSN allowed me to balance my work-life commitments while advancing my education. The flexibility of online courses made it possible for me to continue working as a nurse while enhancing my skills in areas like patient care and management. It truly felt like a step forward in both my personal and professional life."
- Sasha: "The RN to BSN program was a transformational experience for me. It gave me a fresh perspective on nursing, from evidence-based practice to public health. The knowledge I gained not only made me a better nurse but also reignited my passion for the profession."
Key Findings
- RN to BSN applicants must have an active RN license from an accredited nursing program.
- At least 59% of RNs find employment in state, local, and private hospitals.
- Most RN to BSN classes require a clinical practicum and a culminating project course.
- The clinical requirements for RN to BSN programs are 30 to 150 hours.
- RN to BSN students should expect to pay between $10,000 and $20,000.
References:
- AACN. (2025, June 17). Schools of Nursing Enrollment Increases Across Most Program Levels, Signaling Strong Interest in Nursing Careers. Retrieved September 25, 2025, from AACN.
- Imagine America Foundation. (n.d.). How Much Does Nursing School Cost? Retrieved September 25, 2025, from Imagine America Foundation.
- The University of Texas at Arlington. (2024, October 31). Nurses: Negotiate Your Salary. Retrieved September 24, 2025, from UTA.
- Walden University. (n.d.). How Long Does It Take to Complete an RN to BSN Program? Retrieved September 24, 2025, from Walden University.
Other Things You Should Know About an RN to BSN Program
RN-to-BSN programs are intended for registered nurses who already hold a nursing diploma or ADN. In contrast, ADN-to-BSN programs are aimed at individuals who have completed their ADN but are taking a BSN directly. It calls for a more robust foundation in general education courses before moving into specialized nursing coursework.
Simply put, ADN-to-BSN students may need to complete extra coursework in general education, while RN-to-BSN students can bypass some of these principal classes.
Yes, it is possible to go straight to a BSN without first becoming a registered nurse. Many universities offer direct-entry BSN programs for individuals who have no prior nursing education. These programs can take four years to complete and provide training in both the clinical and theoretical aspects of nursing.
This trajectory is built for students who wish to enter the profession directly with a BSN, rather than following the RN path through an associate degree or diploma program.
A BSN qualifies nurses for more progressive roles and responsibilities—an associate degree or diploma alone cannot. BSN nurses are more eligible for careers such as charge nurse, nurse manager, or clinical nurse specialist. They are more suitable to work in public health, case management, or teaching nursing students.
Many healthcare facilities prefer a BSN for higher-level positions, and it is often the prerequisite for pursuing advanced practice roles like nurse practitioner, nurse educator, or nurse administrator. A BSN also improves the nurse's ability to contribute to healthcare policy and quality improvement initiatives.
Whether an RN or a BSN is "better" depends on an individual's career ambitions. An RN is a registered nurse who has passed the NCLEX-RN exam after completing an ADN or a diploma program. It provides a solid foundation for starting a nursing career quickly and allows nurses to enter the workforce sooner.
A BSN, which is a bachelor’s degree in nursing, is a more in-depth education. It is usually required for higher-level positions, such as nurse management, clinical specialties, or education roles, and it can lead to career advancement and competitive salaries.
In many cases, a BSN is the norm for many healthcare employers, making it a beneficial long-term investment for nurses planning to grow professionally.
