What is the difference between an RN and BSN?
Both are registered nurses who have passed the NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination), and both are qualified to practice nursing in the United States. However, at many hospitals and clinics, management and supervisory roles are only available to nurses with BSN degrees. BSN-prepared nurses may earn up to $30,000 more per year than RNs, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics.
Do you have to get your RN before your BSN?
To become an RN, you must pass the NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) after earning a diploma or degree in nursing. For the online RN to BSN program, you must be an RN with an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing, have an Associate of Science in Nursing degree, or be pursuing an associate degree and have completed the first year of coursework.
How long is the online RN to BSN program?
The RN to BSN program can be completed in as few as 12 months.
How and when do I get started?
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the year. Request Information or contact a program manager at (866) 295-3104 for enrollment information.
What educational background is required for admission?
You must be an RN with an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing, have an Associate of Science in Nursing degree, or be pursuing an associate degree and have completed the first year of coursework. A cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher for all college work attempted is required.
What are the application requirements?
- A minimum 2.5/4.0 cumulative GPA from all colleges and universities attended.
- A current, unencumbered Illinois RN license.
- 83 designated semester credit hours documented by official college transcripts.
- A letter of recommendation from a supervisor. New graduates may obtain letter from a clinical nursing instructor.
- Basic skills in word processing, internet use, and email communication.
- Completion of all prerequisite coursework prior to enrolling in Benedictine nurse cohort courses and/or an approved academic plan finalized with the academic advisor within one month of notification of program admission.
How many total credits are required?
120 total credit hours.
Of these, 83 credits represent a combination of the nursing and prerequisite coursework you have completed, and 37 credits represent BenU RN to BSN program coursework.
Can I complete this program while working full time?
Yes. In fact, this program is built with you in mind. Course timelines are designed to help you complete the program while maintaining your work schedule.
Are any scholarships available?
External scholarships and grants are available; more than $40,000 in scholarships are typically awarded to our nursing students each year.
Is Benedictine University accredited?
Yes, Benedictine University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Benedictine’s RN to BSN program is also accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Is there a residency requirement?
No, there is not a residency requirement.
The online RN to BSN program allows you to learn anywhere you have access to the internet. Online courses are delivered through a user-friendly web-based learning platform. This powerful educational technology enables you to get course assignments, direct questions to faculty and other students, and participate in critical analytical discussion with colleagues around the world.
Will I still get to interact with my classmates in an online program?
Yes. The RN to BSN program uses a cohort model, which means you will take all of your classes at the same time with the same group of students. You will have many opportunities to get to know your classmates, grow together, and provide support to each other as you complete the program. Graduates often remain friends long after graduation.
What kind of clinical experience will I complete during the program?
You will complete a total of 70 hours of clinical practice experience at a health care facility in your community during two courses, NRHL 3366 and NRHL 4394.
Can my clinical experience be at my current place of employment?
In some cases. Depending on your place of employment and your course requirements, it may be eligible for credit as one of your clinical experiences. Program faculty and staff will guide you in site selection.
Do I need a computer?
Yes, you will need a computer with high-speed internet access to successfully complete the requirements for the degree.
What software will I need?
For successful completion of an online course, you must have access to reliable technology. It is your responsibility to secure access to a working computer with the required software and to a high-speed internet connection. The following are recommended:
- Windows 7 or Mac OS X 10.5 (minimum)
- Reliable high-speed Internet access and Wi-Fi capabilities
- Access to the latest version of multiple internet browsers:
- Microsoft® Internet Explorer
- Mozilla Firefox
- Google Chrome
- Apple Safari
- Adobe® Reader (latest version)
- Adobe® Flash plug-in (latest version)
- Microphone and webcam for optional audio/videoconferencing
- Updated anti-virus and spyware protection
Student Resources: You’ll have free access to Office 365 which includes Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and other programs.
Please note: “Smart phones” like iPhones or Androids don’t have adequate word processing software and are not capable of accessing all online coursework. Smartphones are not recommended as your only source of technology.
How much do I need to know about computers in order to succeed in this program?
The courses are designed to be user-friendly for those who have limited computer skills. All students complete an online orientation that ensures they have the basic skills required to successfully navigate the courses.
Is there technical support?
Yes. Technical support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week through the Personal Support Center, which is easily reached through a toll-free number.
Is advising available for all students?
Yes. You can set up a telephone appointment to speak with an advisor whenever you need help.
If you have additional questions, please request more information or call (866) 295-3104 to speak with a Program Manager.