- Table of Contents:
- Best RN to BSN in Georgia
- Compare Programs
- RN to BSN Overview
- Prerequisites & Requirements
- Salary Expectations
- Pros & Cons
- How to Choose a Nursing School
- Accrediting Bodies
- FAQ
-
by
allnurses (Editorial Team / Admin)
Becoming a registered nurse (RN) in Georgia involves exploring several educational pathways. Among them, the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is one of the fastest and most popular options. However, ADN-prepared RNs often return to school to achieve their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in bridge programs called RN to BSNs, allowing them to take on more responsibilities and earn higher salaries.
Considering this, we've provided everything you need to know to apply for an RN to BSN in Georgia, along with salary expectations after graduation and recommendations for the best programs in the state.
Best RN to BSN Programs in Georgia
One of the main reasons Georgia's programs rank as some of the best in the nation is the coordination of the University System of Georgia's eCampus.
13 of the Georgia nursing programs on this list partner with eCampus to administer "core" online RN to BSN courses, dramatically reducing tuition costs and ensuring quality standards.
eCampus course fees are set at the institutional level. However, most schools we've reviewed charge between $169 and $199 per credit hour.
The following schools have been selected based on allnurses' methodology of surveying our readers to understand what they value most while selecting schools with the addition of NCLEX pass rates, graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, and admission rate of hundreds of the most prominent nursing schools in the United States.
1. Columbus State University
Program Overview: Online RN to BSN
- RN to BSN Credit Requirement: 28
- Cost per Credit Hour: $199 for RN to BSN Courses
- Estimated Program Cost1: $5,572
- Program Length2: 12 Months for full-time
- Clinical Requirements: One class requires community-based clinical, NURS 4698 - Senior Project
- Course List
Program Admission
- Minimum GPA: 2.5; for those with a GPA between 2.0 and 2.49, a conditional admission may be offered
- Terms: Fall, Spring and Summer admission options
- Application Deadlines: Deadlines vary based on the initial application submission
- Out-of-state Applications: The program accepts applicants from approximately 30 states (see the full list)
2. Dalton State College
Program Overview: Online RN to BSN
- RN to BSN Credit Requirement: 21
- Cost per Credit Hour: $199 for RN to BSN Courses
- Estimated Program Cost1: $4,179
- Program Length2: 9 Months for full-time (2 semesters)
- Clinical Requirements: There's a clinical precepting experience revolving around leadership and community health.
- Course List
Program Admission
- Minimum GPA: 2.75
- Terms: Fall and Spring
- Application Deadlines: July 1st for Fall admission; November 1st for Spring admission
3. Georgia Southern University
Program Overview: Online RN to BSN
- RN to BSN Credit Requirement: 31
- Cost per Credit Hour: $199
- Estimated Program Cost1: $6,169
- Program Length2: 9 months for full-time (2 semesters)
- Clinical Requirements: Two courses require clinicals, equating to 120 hours of clinical experience.
- Course List
Program Admission
- Minimum GPA: 3.0; provisional admission may be granted with a 2.7 GPA
- Terms: Fall and Spring
- Application Deadlines: April 1st for the Fall semester; October 1st for the Spring semester
Compare Online RN to BSN Programs in Georgia
| School | City | Program | Format | Accreditation |
Estimated Costs1 (Minimum) |
Program Length2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College | Tifton | RN to BSN | Online | ACEN | $4,770 | 12 Months |
|
Albany State University (Darton State College) |
Albany | RN to BSN | Online | ACEN | $6,368 | 12 Months |
| Clayton State University | Morrow |
RN to BSN Completion Program |
Online | CCNE | $5,070 | 12 Months |
| College of Coastal Georgia | Brunswick | RN to BSN | Online | ACEN | - | 12 Months |
| Columbus State University | Columbus | RN to BSN | Online | CCNE | $5,572 | 12 Months |
| Dalton State College | Dalton | RN to BSN | Online | ACEN | $4,179 | 9 Months |
|
Mercer University (Georgia Baptist College of Nursing) |
Atlanta | RN to BSN | Online | CCNE | $11,552 | 12 Months |
| Georgia Highlands College | Rome | RN to BSN | Online | ACEN | $5,970 | 9 Months |
| Georgia Southern University | Savannah | RN to BSN | Online | CCNE | $6,169 | 12 Months |
| Georgia Southwestern State University | Americus | RN to BSN | Online | CCNE | $4,741 | 12 Months |
| Georgia State University | Atlanta |
RN to BSN Bridge Program |
Online | CCNE | $8,940 | 12 Months |
| Gordon State College | Barnesville |
RN to BSN Completion |
Online | ACEN | $5,572 | 12 Months |
| La Grange College | LaGrange | RN to BSN | Online | ACEN | - | - |
| Middle Georgia State University | Macon |
RN to BSN Completion |
Online | CCNE | $5,970 | 12 Months |
| South Georgia State College | Douglas | RN to BSN | Online | ACEN | - | - |
| University of West Georgia | Carrollton | RN to BSN | Online | CCNE | $5,460 | 12 Months |
1Costs are based on minimum required RN to BSN credits and are not inclusive of core credits, nor all fees. Actual costs will vary from student to student and are based on multiple factors, including transfer credits and scholarships. For the most accurate costs breakdown, please reach out to a school representative.
2Program lengths included are typically the shortest possible program length, requiring the maximum amount of transfer credits prior to admission. Outstanding general curriculum requirements will likely increase program length.
What Is an RN to BSN?
An RN to BSN Program is an RN returning to school to obtain a BSN degree. This involves experienced RNs and new graduates with a diploma or an ADN. A BSN degree program provides a more comprehensive education in social and physical sciences, nursing management, research, informatics, and public health. It enhances knowledge and understanding of community health, healthcare management, leadership, and policy for a broader scope of practice.
Related: 10 Best RN to BSN Programs in 2023
RN to BSN Coursework
Typical RN to BSN Coursework includes:
- Professional Nursing Practice
- Family-Centered Health Promotion
- Community and Public Health Nursing
- Statistics for Health Professions
- Introduction to Nursing Research
- Ethical Nursing Practice
- Nursing Leadership and Management
- Trends and Issues in Today's Health Care
- Professional Capstone and Practicum
Can RN to BSNs Be Taken Entirely Online?
RN to BSN programs can be taken entirely online. These programs are designed for working RNs who have already completed an ADN or nursing diploma program and obtained licensure, meaning they've gained significant hands-on experience in their initial programs and through work. However, it's important to note that some online RN to BSN programs may have in-person requirements such as exams or capstone projects, so students should check the specific requirements of a program to ensure it fits their needs.
Where Do BSN-Prepared Nurses Work?
Nurses with a BSN have many career options and opportunities and can practice in most care settings, including:
- Hospitals
- Nursing Homes
- Home Care Agencies
- Physician Office
- Educational Services
- Government Agencies
- Schools
- Community Centers
- Hospices
- Dialysis Centers
- Telephonic and Virtual Care Settings
Georgia RN to BSN Prerequisites and Requirements
There are several prerequisites to enter an RN to BSN program, including:
- An ADN or Diploma in Nursing
- Current, unrestricted RN license
- Minimum GPA; across the schools we reviewed the average GPA requirement was 2.4, with the lowest GPA accepted for admission being a 2.0 at several schools in the state
- Official transcripts
- Minimum number of general education credits completed
Some schools also require the following:
- Recommendation letters
- Drug screenings
RN to BSN Salary Expectations in Georgia
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), RNs in Georgia in 2022 earned:
- Mean Hourly Wage: $40.95
- Annual Mean Wage: $85,180
Unfortunately, the BLS does not specify whether this is an ADN-prepared RN or BSN-prepared RN; however, given that a BSN is likely to increase earning potential, this is likely to be representative of slightly lower than the average BSN-RN salary.
RN salary in Georgia is 4% lower than the national estimates for 2022, as the BLS reports RNs across the U.S. earning:
- Mean Hourly Wage: $42.80
- Annual Mean Wage: $89,010
With the highest-paying states being:
- California: $133,340
- Hawaii: $113,220
- Oregon: $106,610
- Massachusetts: $104,150
- Alaska: $103,310
The BLS collected the Georgia RN wage data from over 82,970 nurses.
Compare several specializations by state with our comprehensive nursing salary guide, or learn more about nursing salaries in Georgia.
Are RN to BSN Programs Worth It?
RN to BSN programs in Georgia offer significant advantages, particularly in terms of career advancement and salary potential. However, they also require a substantial investment of time and money, and the benefits can vary depending on individual circumstances and specific locations within the state.
RN to BSN Pros in Georgia
- Higher Salary Potential: BSN-prepared nurses in Georgia often have higher earning potential compared to their ADN counterparts, reflecting the advanced level of education and qualifications.
- Increased Job Opportunities: Many healthcare facilities in Georgia, especially larger hospitals and clinics, prefer or require nurses with a BSN, offering more job opportunities for BSN-prepared nurses.
- Advancement in Career: A BSN is often necessary for leadership roles, specialized nursing positions, or administrative roles. In Georgia's diverse healthcare landscape, this degree can open doors to various career advancement opportunities.
- Educational Foundation for Advanced Degrees: For nurses in Georgia aiming to pursue further education, such as Nurse Practitioner or Nurse Anesthetist programs, a BSN is typically a prerequisite.
- Meeting Industry Standards: With a nationwide push towards a more educated nursing workforce, having a BSN aligns with the evolving standards of the nursing profession. This is particularly relevant in Georgia's dynamic healthcare sector.
RN to BSN Cons in Georgia
- Cost and Financial Investment: The cost of pursuing a BSN in Georgia can be substantial, including tuition, books, and other fees, which might be a financial strain for some nurses.
- Time Commitment: Balancing work, life, and education can be challenging, especially for working nurses who might have to juggle job responsibilities with academic commitments.
- Variable ROI Based on Location: The return on investment for a BSN degree can vary across different regions in Georgia, with urban areas typically offering higher salary benefits than rural areas.
- Online vs. Traditional Learning: While online RN to BSN programs offer flexibility, they may not suit everyone's learning style. Some nurses in Georgia may prefer traditional, in-person learning environments.
- Experience vs. Education: In some nursing roles and facilities within Georgia, extensive nursing experience can be as valued as higher education, which might limit the perceived immediate benefit of a BSN for seasoned RNs.
Ultimately, deciding whether an RN to BSN program in Georgia is worth it for you will depend on personal circumstances and career goals.
How to Choose a Nursing School
Reasons for choosing a nursing school will vary per student and their specific needs. Some students value the cost of education, while others may place greater emphasis on NCLEX pass rates, academic reputation, or other factors.
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 are the best fit for them.
Importance of Attending an Accredited RN to BSN Program in Georgia
Attending an accredited RN to BSN program in Georgia is important for several key reasons:
- Quality of Education: Accreditation ensures the program meets rigorous national educational standards, providing a comprehensive and current nursing education.
- State Licensure: Graduating from an accredited program is often required for licensure in Georgia, ensuring compliance with state nursing regulations.
- Employment Opportunities: Many healthcare employers in Georgia prefer or require a degree from an accredited program, recognizing its credibility and quality.
- Further Education: A BSN from an accredited program is typically required for admission into advanced nursing education programs in Georgia.
- Eligibility for Financial Aid: Accreditation is often a prerequisite for federal and state financial aid, crucial for funding your education.
Accrediting bodies include the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
FAQ and Additional Readings
Q: Is a BSN degree worth it?
Many RNs enjoy helping and caring for others. They choose to become BSN-prepared to expand their nursing knowledge and open the door for opportunities in leadership or other areas of nursing. Often, RNs return to earn their BSN and think it's worth it, especially if they want to increase their earning potential.
Q: Is a BSN higher than an RN?
An RN is a license that you receive from the state board of nursing to practice nursing. An RN can have an associate, bachelor, or master's degree. A BSN is a four-year degree that prepares you for practice as an RN but has more advanced courses than an ADN degree.
Q: Why choose an RN to BSN program?
Many healthcare systems encourage nurses to earn their BSN degrees with the potential to increase their earning potential. Many online and self-paced programs make earning your degree much more manageable while working.
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