Programs
Format
Tuition
Score
Online
$22,500
3.0 /5
Programs
Format
Tuition
Score
Online
$12,000
3.5 /5
School Details
West Coast University (WCU) College of Nursing offers CCNE accredited BSN, LVN/LPN to BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, and RN to MSN degree programs including programs for Nurse Practitioners, Nurse Educators, Nurse Leaders, and Nurse Informatics, as well as post-graduate Certificates.
Accreditations
,ACEN,CCNE,COA
,
,
,
Location
California
Address
9250 NW 36th Street, Anaheim, California 33178, US
Telephone
1-866-508-2684
Programs
Format
Tuition
Score
Online
$14,850
3.5 /5
What Is an RN to BSN?
A BSN is a bachelor's degree program that teaches students basic nursing skills in addition to skills in leadership, research, quality, health promotion, and safety.
Successful completion of an ADN program or a BSN program allows students to sit for the NCLEX exam and obtain their RN license, but a BSN program takes education a step further with more in-depth skills and coursework.
The most significant difference between an ADN-prepared RN and a BSN-prepared RN is that a BSN nurse has more career opportunities and the potential for a higher pay rate. BSN-prepared nurses are often more sought out by hospitals for their advanced education and contributions toward Magnet Status requirements .
An RN-to-BSN program streamlines the process of ADN-prepared RNs becoming BSN-prepared, allowing nursing students to benefit from all of the above-mentioned advantages.
RN to BSN Admission Requirements
RN completion programs have specific admission requirements that vary by nursing school. However, common enrollment criteria include:
Proof of an active and unencumbered RN license
Proof of completion of an ADN or diploma nursing program
Proof of a specific number of years or practice hours as an RN
Personal statement explaining why you want to advance your career
Remote or in-person interview with nursing faculty
Prerequisite coursework in anatomy, physiology, Microbiology, or statistics
Proof of a GPA of 2.0 or higher for all previous college classes
Passing a criminal background check, including fingerprints
Submitting a physical exam, drug screening, and immunization records
In addition to graduating from an accredited ADN RN program and holding an active RN license, students must generally complete core courses with a minimum GPA set by the program. These courses may include, but are not limited to:
English Composition
Speech or Interpersonal Communication
Psychology
Sociology
Child/Human Development
Liberal Arts Elective
General Chemistry with lab
Microbiology with lab
Anatomy with lab
Physiology
College Algebra
Statistics
Human Nutrition
It's important to check the admission requirements for the specific program of interest before applying to ensure you meet all criteria, as they can vary depending on the chosen RN-to-BSN program.
RN to BSN Curriculum
RN to BSN programs expand an RN's knowledge and skills through advanced coursework, including:
Advanced Nursing Practice: Deepens understanding of patient care and healthcare policies.
Community Health Nursing: Focuses on public health and health promotion in community settings.
Leadership and Management in Nursing: Develops management and leadership skills specific to healthcare.
Health Assessment: Teaches advanced patient assessment techniques.
Pathophysiology: Studies disease effects on the body.
Pharmacology: Covers medication effects, interactions, and dosages.
Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice: Emphasizes the role of research and applying evidence-based practices.
Ethics in Nursing: Explores ethical dilemmas and legal considerations in healthcare.
RN to BSN Clinical Training
Clinical training in RN to BSN programs provides practical experience in various settings:
Hospital-Based Training: Offers diverse experiences in different hospital departments.
Community Health Clinics: Focuses on preventive care and health education in community health.
Long-Term Care Facilities: Involves care for elderly or long-term patients, emphasizing chronic care management.
Public Health Departments: Engages with public health initiatives and community health assessments.
Specialty Clinics: Provides specialized experience in areas like oncology or pediatrics.
Home Health Care: Focuses on individualized care in patients' homes.
Simulation Labs: Uses simulation technology for realistic practice of clinical skills.
RN to BSN Program Costs
The cost of pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) can fluctuate widely, influenced by several key components. Prospective students should consider the following factors to plan their finances:
Tuition: Varies by institution.
State schools are generally cheaper than private or out-of-state.
Public universities often charge lower rates for residents.
Online programs can reduce costs, though clinical hours may still be required.
Fees: Application, technology, and graduation fees.
Books and Supplies: Costs for textbooks, medical instruments, and other materials.
Technology Expenses: Software and digital learning tools for online or hybrid courses.
Miscellaneous Fees: Additional administrative fees and travel costs for clinical rotations.
Living Expenses: Significant for those not working while studying or relocating.
Opportunity Costs: Financial impact of reduced work hours while in school.
Long-term ROI: Consider networking opportunities, educational quality, and job placement.
Personal Circumstances: Factors like childcare or the need to maintain employment may affect choice.
These elements collectively contribute to the total investment required for a BSN RN program, necessitating thorough financial planning for those embarking on this educational path. To reduce the overall cost of nursing school, explore the Best Ways to Pay for Nursing School and consider choosing one of the Most Affordable RN to BSN Programs.
Are RN-BSN Programs Worth It?
The decision to pursue an RN to BSN program is a nuanced one, contingent upon individual career aspirations and professional objectives. Consider the following factors to determine if investing in an RN-BSN program aligns with your goals:
Current Career: If you are content with your role as an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) RN, without immediate plans for job changes or career advancement, the necessity of pursuing a BSN may be less pronounced.
Career Advancement Aspirations: For those aspiring to explore new horizons in their nursing career, such as travel nursing or leadership roles, obtaining a BSN can be a game-changer. Some units and hospitals have policies favoring BSN-prepared nurses, potentially limiting opportunities for those with an ADN.
Industry Standards and Recommendations: The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) emphasizes the value of BSN education, advocating for a minimum BSN or equivalent baccalaureate nursing degree for registered nurses. This reflects the evolving standards in the nursing profession and the increasing recognition of advanced education.
Professional Credibility: Completing a BSN program enhances your professional credibility, signaling to employers and peers that you have pursued advanced education and training aligned with evolving national standards for advancing nursing practice.
Long-Term Career Flexibility: By investing in a BSN, you secure long-term career flexibility, positioning yourself competitively in the ever-changing healthcare landscape. As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, the demand for advanced education in nursing is expected to rise. Notably, hospitals distinguished as Magnet institutions often mandate BSN education for all their nurses, underlining the increasing importance of this qualification.
Access to Varied Opportunities: BSN-prepared nurses often have access to a broader range of opportunities, including specialized roles and leadership positions. If your career goals involve diversifying your skill set and taking on more responsibilities, pursuing a BSN may open doors to these options.
Ultimately the worth of an RN-BSN program hinges on your personal career trajectory. While it might not be essential for every nurse, those with ambitions for leadership, career advancement, and increased flexibility may find significant value in obtaining a BSN. Understanding industry trends, standards, and your personal career goals will help you make an informed decision regarding the pursuit of a BSN.
How to Choose an RN to BSN Program
The criteria for choosing a nursing school vary based on personal preferences. Some students emphasize tuition costs, while others prioritize NCLEX pass rates, academic reputation, or other considerations.
Although it will vary by individual, a survey by allnurses revealed the top 11 reasons nursing students chose their programs:
Cost
High NCLEX Pass Rate
Location
Academic Reputation
Availability of Financial Aid and Scholarships
Length of Time to Obtain Degree
Flexibility of Schedule
Curriculum
Campus and Surroundings
Nursing Clinicals Location
Availability of Online Courses
Ultimately, prospective students should assess their needs and pick schools that best fit them. Another critical consideration is accreditation. Though its importance may not be immediately apparent, accreditation is crucial, especially for RN to BSN programs. Here's why you should choose an accredited RN to BSN program:
Program Standards: Maintains rigorous curriculum, faculty qualifications, and clinical training.
Career Prospects: Preferred by employers, broadening job opportunities and flexibility.
Credit Transfer: Easier acceptance of credits by other institutions.
Credibility: Enhances professional reputation with education aligned to national standards.
Financial Aid: Necessary for federal financial aid eligibility.
Licensure : Guaranteed to meet state requirements (in all states) for RN licensure and further education.
Professional Growth: Access to networking and professional development opportunities.
Quality Assurance: Regular evaluations ensure ongoing program quality and legitimacy.
Aspiring nurses should verify that their selected RN-to-BSN programs are accredited by reputable bodies such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accrediting Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
California RN BSN Salary & Job Projection
A common motivation for RNs to pursue a BSN is the potential for a pay increase. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), California RNs can expect a mean annual wage of $137,690.00, compared to the national average of $94,480. California also ranks first in the highest employment level of RNs.
California: $137,690.00
Hawaii: $119,710.00
Massachusetts: $113,440.00
Oregon: $111,030.00
Alaska: $109,210.00
While California offers the highest earning potential for registered nurses, it also has a high cost of living. Anyone considering moving to California for the pay should take this factor into account.
Other factors influencing salary include years of experience, nursing specialty, the healthcare system, and your location. Many hospitals and healthcare systems offer higher salaries for RNs with a Bachelor's degree. Although the BLS does not distinguish between ADN RN and BSN RN salaries, ZipRecruiter offers valuable insights into the pay differences for ADN and BSN registered nurses.
Average ADN RN Salary
Hourly Wage: $39.00
Annual Wage: $80,321.00
U.S states with the highest ADN RN salaries are:
Washington: $99,301.00
New York: $88,028.00
Vermont: $86,437.00
California: $84,528.00
Maine: $82,150.00
Average BSN RN Salary
Hourly Wage: $49.00
Annual Wage: $102,263.00
U.S states with the highest BSN RN salaries are:
Washington: $126,428.00
New York: $112,075.00
Vermont: $110,049.00
California: $107,620.00
Maine: $104,591.00
RN to BSN Job Projection
Data from the BLS highlights that the nursing sector had over three million registered nurse positions in 2022, with a projected 6% growth by 2032, adding approximately 177,400 new jobs. While Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) RNs are valued, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) considers the Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing (BSN) as the minimum educational requirement for professional nursing practice.
The projected job growth does not fully account for demographic shifts, such as an aging population and the retirement of a significant portion of the nursing workforce in the coming decade. The COVID-19 pandemic has also led to career path changes among nurses, exacerbating the shortage of nursing professionals. Consequently, the demand for well-qualified nurses, particularly those with a BSN, is expected to remain high. The AACN's endorsement of the BSN as the minimal preparation for professional practice is likely to further drive this trend.
FAQ and Additional Readings
Q: What can a BSN do that an RN cannot?
A baccalaureate-prepared nurse has more opportunities in positions such as leadership or education and advanced degrees like a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). In terms of licensing and scope of practice both ADN and BSN prepared RNs took the same NCLEX RN and maintain the same scope of practice with the ability to perofrm the same nursing skills.
Q: Should I pursue a BSN?
Ultimately that is up to your career goals, but given the increasing complexity of the U.S. healthcare system, including higher rates of chronic illnesses and ongoing policy and technology changes, a BSN can better prepare you for these challenges. It can also enhance your employability and salary, making it a valuable investment.
Q: May I work while I earn my BSN?
Many programs cater to working nurses, offering options such as online courses or evening classes. Most schools provide part-time and full-time study options, allowing for flexibility and convenience.
Q: Do healthcare facilities require nurses to have a BSN?
This requirement will vary from facility to facility, but surveys by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) found that 40% of hospitals or healthcare facilities require new-hire nurses to have a BSN and many more have a strong preference for BSN RNs.
Q: Can I pursue my MSN or DNP alongside the RN to BSN program?
Many nursing schools offer dual-degree programs, allowing students to combine the RN to BSN program with the opportunity to earn an MSN or DNP upon completing the BSN curriculum. This option seamlessly transitions students from their initial BSN studies to advanced degrees. However, most programs typically require 1-2 years of RN experience to enrich the learning experience with practical insights from the field.
Q: Do I get to transfer credits from my prior nursing degree?
Many schools accept transferable credits from prior nursing degrees, but there is usually a maximum number of credits that can be transferred.
Lauren Thayer, RN (Editorial Team / Admin)