Programs
Format
Tuition
Score
Online, On-Campus
$8,224
3.5 /5
School Details
The University of Texas at Tyler, a public institution that graduated its first RN-BSN students in 1975, provides a quality nursing education by offering the Bachelor of Science in Nursing, the Master of Science in Nursing, the Doctor of Nursing Practice, and the Doctor of Philosophy degree programs.
Accreditations
ACEN,CCNE,COA
,
,
Location
Texas
Address
3900 University Blvd, Tyler, Texas 75799, US
Telephone
1-903-566-7090
Programs
Format
Tuition
Score
Online
$9,870
3.5 /5
Programs
Format
Tuition
Score
Online
$3,990
4.0 /5
What Is an RN to BSN Program?
After completing the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and becoming a licensed RN by passing the NCLEX exam, many nurses advance their careers by returning to school for a one to two-year bridge to a BSN degree. A BSN degree is a baccalaureate degree focusing on expanding the foundations of nursing care. Areas of focus include evidence-based practice, research, and nursing theory.
Nurses with a BSN have access to a broader array of career opportunities and can work in more varied environments than those with an ADN. Although both ADN and BSN nurses can work in hospitals and nursing homes, BSN-prepared nurses often qualify for positions in educational services, leadership roles, government agencies, schools, community centers, hospices, dialysis centers, and virtual care settings. This advanced education and skill set open doors to specialized nursing roles, boosting career advancement and job satisfaction.
RN to BSN Coursework
Pharmacology : Advanced study of medications, their effects on the human body, and their role in patient care.
Physiology: In-depth exploration of human physiological processes and how they relate to nursing practices.
Health Assessment: Techniques and methods for comprehensive patient assessments, including physical examinations and health history evaluations.
Community Health Nursing: Study of public health principles and their application in community settings.
Ethics in Nursing: Examination of ethical dilemmas and decision-making processes in nursing practice.
Pathophysiology: Study of the changes in body systems and functions due to diseases.
These BSN higher-level nursing courses will build upon previous experience, skills, and knowledge to develop a stronger nursing foundation. The skills focus on clinical reasoning and the nursing profession from the broader viewpoint of factors affecting patient care. These courses can build upon essential foundations , including the following:
Systems Leadership, Quality, and Patient Safety
Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice
Information Management and Technology
Healthcare Policy and Finance
Population Health
Interprofessional Collaboration and Communication
RN to BSN programs offer full-time and part-time coursework.
RN to BSN Clinical Training
Clinical experience is also part of RN to BSN programs, with students completing clinical time with other BSN-prepared nurses. This hands-on experience will enhance the BSN students' experience within health promotion, evidence-based practice, informatics, and nursing leadership roles.
Hospital Rotations: Practical experience in various hospital departments, such as emergency, pediatrics, and surgery.
Community Health Practicum: Hands-on experience in community health settings, focusing on public health initiatives and preventive care.
Leadership Practicum: Opportunities to develop leadership skills in clinical settings, often involving project management or team leadership roles.
Simulation Labs: Use of high-fidelity mannequins and simulations to practice clinical skills in a controlled environment.
Capstone Project: A culminating project that integrates theoretical knowledge with clinical practice, often involving a specific patient population or healthcare issue.
Can RN to BSN Programs Be Taken Entirely Online?
RN to BSN programs are often available online, on campus, or as hybrid options. Designed for working RNs who have completed an ADN or nursing diploma program and obtained licensure, these programs build on the significant hands-on experience gained through initial training and work. However, some online programs may have in-person requirements like exams or capstone projects, so it's essential to check the specific requirements of each program to ensure it fits your needs.
Why Earn Your BSN?
Nurses with an ADN might wonder why they should pursue a BSN degree. Here are several key reasons:
Expanded Career Opportunities: BSN-prepared nurses can access more diverse roles, including management and leadership positions that are often out of reach for ADN holders.
Higher Earnings: BSN-prepared nurses typically earn higher salaries and have the option to pursue advanced degrees in nursing or other fields.
Improved Patient Outcomes : BSN education enhances nursing skills, leading to better patient care and increased healthcare system revenue. Many healthcare organizations now require or encourage a BSN due to these benefits.
Professional Standards: The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) states that a BSN is the minimum educational requirement for professional nursing practice.
Magnet Recognition: Health systems aiming for Magnet status from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) often prefer baccalaureate-prepared nurses. This status signifies excellence in nursing and improved patient outcomes, prompting many employers to offer tuition reimbursement or assistance for BSN programs.
Advanced Education: The BSN degree also provides the groundwork for nurses to further their future careers with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) .
RN to BSN Admnission Requirements
All schools have a separate list of prerequisites, although many similarities exist. First, you must have completed the ADN program through an accredited school and maintained a specific GPA. Once admitted, students complete a core curriculum before continuing to higher-level nursing courses.
Completion of an ADN, ASN, or AAS program through an accredited institution.
Passed your NCLEX-RN exam and have an unrestricted NC RN license
Basic Life Support (BLS) or CPR certification
Proof of transcripts from all prior schools
Proof of clinical and practicum hours
Background check and drug screen
Up-to-date on immunizations and a current physical examination
Many programs require a minimum grade point average (GPA) of B (3.0) in previous coursework
Prerequisite courses may include:
Psychology
Sociology
General Chemistry with lab
Microbiology with lab
Anatomy and Physiology with lab
College Algebra
Statistics
Human Nutrition
Speech or Interpersonal Communication
Always verify the specific admission requirements for each RN to BSN program, as they can vary. Many programs accept prerequisites from community colleges or the university where you'll pursue your BSN. Ensure your credits transfer correctly by checking transfer eligibility with your chosen program.
Costs of RN to BSN Programs in Texas
When considering the costs of RN to BSN programs, it's important to take into account several factors that can influence the total expense. Here are key considerations:
Tuition Rates: Tuition can vary significantly between institutions. Public universities often offer lower rates for in-state students, while private colleges may have higher tuition fees. Online programs might offer different rates compared to traditional on-campus programs.
Per Credit Cost: Some programs charge per credit hour. The total number of credit hours required to complete the program will affect the overall cost.
Program Length: Accelerated programs may be more expensive in the short term but can reduce overall costs by enabling quicker completion. Traditional programs spread over a longer period might have lower semester costs but could be more expensive in total.
Fees and Additional Costs: Beyond tuition, additional fees such as technology fees, lab fees, and resources fees can add up. Also, consider the cost of textbooks and other learning materials.
Online vs. On-Campus: Online programs might reduce costs related to commuting, housing, and other campus-related expenses.
Part-Time vs. Full-Time Enrollment: Part-time enrollment might be more manageable financially but can extend the duration of the program, potentially increasing the total cost.
Living Expenses: For on-campus programs, consider the cost of living in the area, including housing, food, and transportation.
It's important that prospective students research available financial aid, grants, and bursaries to offset the costs of their education. To reduce costs, explore the Best Ways to Pay for Nursing School and consider choosing one of the Most Affordable RN to BSN Programs.
RN Salary Expectations in Texas
According to the NCSBN National Workforce Survey , 41.8% of nurses completed a BSN program as their first licensure, and 37.7% of nurses in 2020 had their first licensure with an ADN degree. Geographic location, employer, and experience level each influence the salary of BSN-prepared nurses.
The most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the mean salary for RNs was $94,480 per year, while Texas RNs earned an annual mean wage of $90,210, which is 4-5% lower. This figure includes all RNs, regardless of whether they hold an ADN, BSN, or MSN degree.
Texas ranked second in the highest employment level of RNs:
California (332,560) $137,690.00
Texas (251,840) $90,210.00
FLorida (207,910) $84,760.00
New York (188,060) $106,620.00
Pennsylvania (144,100) $87,530.00
The top-paying states for RNs were:
California: $137,690.00
Hawaii: $119,710.00
Massachusetts: $113,440.00
Oregon: $111,030.00
Alaska: $109,210.00
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
According to ZipRecruiter, BSN RNs in Texas earn an average of $87,764.00 annually, with the top-paying cities in the state as follows:
Emerald Bay, TX: $108,604.00
Frankston, TX: $105,270.00
Iraan, TX: $98,992.00
Batesville, TX: $96,537.00
Markham, TX: $93,334.00
Often employers require a BSN degree for nursing leadership positions, such as nursing director, clinical nurse manager, assistant nurse manager, and clinical educator. These leadership positions often have higher salaries than bedside nursing.
Compare several specializations by state with our comprehensive nursing salary guide , or learn more about nursing salaries in Texas .
Are RN to BSN Programs in Texas Worth It?
While RN to BSN programs in Texas offer several advantages, including higher salary potential and better job opportunities, they also require a significant investment of time and money.
Pros of RN to BSN Programs in Texas
Higher Salary Potential: BSN-prepared nurses often have higher earning potential compared to their ADN counterparts. This is particularly relevant in Texas, where the healthcare industry is booming.
Increased Job Opportunities: Many healthcare facilities, especially magnet hospitals, prefer or require BSN-prepared nurses. Texas, with its large number of healthcare facilities, offers numerous opportunities for BSN-prepared nurses.
Advancement Opportunities: A BSN is often a stepping stone for leadership roles or specialized nursing positions. In Texas's diverse healthcare landscape, this can open doors to various career paths.
Educational Foundation for Further Studies: For nurses in Texas looking to advance their education further, a BSN is typically required for entry into MSN or DNP programs.
Meeting Industry Standards: With the push towards a more educated nursing workforce, having a BSN aligns with the evolving standards of the nursing profession, which is particularly pertinent in a competitive state like Texas.
Cons of RN to BSN Programs in Texas
Cost and Time Investment: Pursuing a BSN requires both time and financial resources. This can be a significant consideration, especially for those already working as RNs.
Variable Return on Investment: Depending on the job market and location within Texas, the financial benefits of a BSN may vary and might not immediately offset the cost of education.
Work-Life Balance Challenges: Balancing work, life, and studies can be challenging, especially for RNs who are working while pursuing their BSN.
Potential Redundancy for Experienced RNs: For RNs with many years of experience, the additional degree may not significantly change their job prospects or salary in Texas, where experience is also highly valued.
Online vs. In-Person Learning: Many RN to BSN programs are offered online, which can be a pro for some but a con for those who prefer in-person learning experiences.
Tips 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
Prospective students should assess their needs and pick schools that are the best fit for them.
RN to BSN Program Accreditation
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:
Guaranteed Standards for Nursing Education
Ensures Compliance with State Regulations
Guarantees Minimum Clinical Hour Requirement
Supports RN Licensure Eligibility
Facilitates Credit Transfers
Enhances Professional Credibility
Improves Employment Prospects
Enables Access to Financial Aid
Promotes Long-Term Career Success
Accrediting bodies include the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation for Education in Nursing (ACEN) .
FAQ and Additional Readings
Q: Will my credits from my ADN degree transfer to the RN-BSN program?
A: Most ADN class credits transfer to BSN programs. It is always a good idea to sit down with the admissions staff and discuss what will/will not transfer. Often, transferred credits can reduce the number of classes needed for graduation.
Q: What if I don't have a Texas nursing license?
A: Most RN to BSN programs here require an unencumbered RN license from any state.
Q: Do I have to actively work as a nurse to get my BSN degree?
A: No, as long as your RN license is in good standing with your state board of nursing, you don't have to work as an RN. Many nursing students do, however, choose to work part-time while obtaining their RN to BSN degree online.
Sarah Beattie, DNP, APRN (Editorial Team / Admin)