Online RN-to-BSN Program

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Be Ready for the Future of Nursing. Earn Your BSN Online.

Gain the skills, knowledge, and credentials you need to keep pace in the nursing field and advance your career. Purdue University Northwest’s College of Nursing offers an online RN-to-BSN program that’s affordable, accelerated, and respected. Prepare to meet the demand for BSN-educated nurses in this fast-growing field and realize your potential.

Meet our Enrollment Specialists and learn about the RN-to-BSN Program.

An Affordable, High-Quality BSN From a Trusted School

Graduate With Your BSN in as few as 10 Months for Under $10,200

  • Earn your BSN in as few as 10 months with PowerPath or 16 months with our standard track, same credits and cost.
  • Scholarships and transfer credit reduce tuition to as low as $10,199.26.
  • Transfer in up to 86 credits—70% of your BSN degree.

Enjoy Online Flexibility

  • Study when it’s convenient for you and keep your current work schedule.
  • Complete courses 100% online.
  • Take courses in a flexible 5-week format.

Count on Strong Support From Faculty and Advisors

  • Learn from faculty dedicated to your success and building the future of nursing.
  • Get assistance from academic coaches, tech support, and financial aid services.

See Notes and Conditions below.

Attend a Nationally Recognized College of Nursing

  • Designated as a National League for Nursing Center of Excellence (2014–2028)
    National League for Nursing logo
  • For more than a decade, the College of Nursing has been an Indiana Center for Evidence Based Nursing Practice: a JBI Affiliate Center
ACEN logo

Accredited by ACEN

The baccalaureate, master’s and post-master’s certificate nursing programs at Purdue University Northwest at the Hammond and Westville campuses located in Hammond and Westville are accredited by the: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), 3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400 Atlanta, GA 30326, 404-975-5000. The most recent accreditation decision made by the ACEN Board of Commissioners for the baccalaureate, master’s and post-master’s certificate nursing programs is continuing accreditation.

View the public information disclosed by the ACEN regarding this program at http://www.acenursing.com/accreditedprograms/programsearch.htm.

Upcoming Start Dates

Earn Your BSN Along With Your ASN/ADN

With our Professional Nursing Pathways Program, you can start earning your BSN at PNW while you complete your ASN/ADN at the community colleges below. Earn your BSN in as few as 10 months with PowerPath after your ASN/ADN graduation when you apply transfer credit toward non-nursing courses.

Select your college below to see how it’s possible:

RN-to-BSN Curriculum

PNW online nursing courses are highly interactive, so you have many opportunities to engage with classmates and faculty.

  • Nursing Courses

    Core Nursing Courses

    • NUR 18200: Conceptual and Theoretical Thinking in Nursing
    • NUR 39100: Professional Ethics
    • NUR 48200: Nursing Leadership and Management
    • NUR 41500: Pathophysiology
    • NUR 39401: Health Promotion and Education
    • NUR 39700: Nursing Care of the Aged, Disabled and Chronically Ill
    • NUR 39000: Nursing Research
    • NUR 48300: Community Health Nursing
    • NUR 45100: Nursing Informatics
    • NUR 45200: Quality and Safety in Professional Nursing Practice
    • NUR 38801: Health Assessment for the Nursing Professional
    • NUR 49800: Capstone
  • Learning Outcomes

    Online RN-to-BSN End of Program Student Learning Outcomes

    • Utilize the nursing process to implement principles of person-centered care within the framework of basic human needs and life span development.
    • Demonstrate effective communication while collaborating therapeutically and effectively with health care system stakeholders.
    • Demonstrate professional leadership in the coordination of health care that minimizes risk, promotes safety, and manages resources by creating a culture of continuous quality improvement.
    • Implement the principles of evidence-based nursing practice in policy development and the provision of person-centered care in an evolving health care environment.
    • Utilize information technology to coordinate and support decision-making in the provision of person-centered care.
    • Implement critical thinking strategies in the context of health promotion, health maintenance, health restoration and palliation to maximize optimal person-centered health outcomes.
    • Exemplify professional values to include accountability for practice, and principles of altruism, autonomy, human dignity, integrity, social justice and ethics.
  • Credit Requirements

    RN-to-BSN Credit Requirements

    • Nursing courses taken with Purdue Northwest: 34 credits
    • Non-nursing courses: 56 credits
      32 credits are completed prior to admission; you can transfer in the remaining 24 credits or choose from our wide array of electives to complement your professional interests. 
    • Nursing transfer credits for your ASN/ADN: 30 credits
    • Total RN-to-BSN credits: 120

Meet the Growing Demand for BSN-Educated Nurses

Employment of nurses is projected to grow from 2021 to 2031. Learn more reasons to earn an RN-to-BSN degree.

Tuition

RN-to-BSN Tuition

$396.39
Cost per Credit
34
Nursing Credits Taken With Purdue Northwest
$10,199.26
Total Tuition With Transfer Credits and Scholarships

See Notes and Conditions below.

RN-to-BSN Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have questions that aren't addressed below? View our general nursing FAQs for more information.

General RN-to-BSN Program FAQs

  • What are the admissions requirements?

    Please see the Admissions Requirements section of the RN-to-BSN student handbook.

  • How much preparation time should I expect to commit to my courses?

    Please plan on allocating 3–4 hours per week per credit hour to complete the didactic coursework. For example, if you are enrolled in a 3-credit hour course, you should anticipate spending approximately 9–12 hours per week completing coursework.

    This time will be spent completing readings, viewing lectures, participating in discussion boards, and accessing information in the online library. This does not include the time needed to complete and submit assignments in the course.

  • What non-nursing courses are required?

    Additional information, including a list of non-nursing program requirements, is available in the program handbook.

  • How do I know which courses to register for?

    You can begin the RN-to-BSN program by taking nursing courses (NUR), non-nursing courses, or both simultaneously. Refer to your course map from your PNW advisor as your guide for which non-nursing courses you will need.

  • Am I allowed to sit out of the program?

    Once you are admitted to the program and begin taking classes, you may sit out as needed. Taking courses at other schools that will satisfy program requirements is not considered sitting out. Sitting out is defined as not taking any classes whatsoever.

    • In the event that you need to sit out, you must contact your PNW academic advisor so that the University is aware of your intentions.
    • In the event of an extended absence, your status as a student will remain active for one year from the last course taken. If an absence extends over one year, then you must contact PNW admissions and re-apply to the program in order to resume.
    • In the event that you are admitted to the program, but do not begin taking courses at PNW in that semester, you must contact PNW admissions and re-apply to the program for subsequent semesters in order to proceed.

    Program policies are listed in the program handbook.

  • Can I take the capstone course when I have completed the nursing credits, but not the non-nursing courses?

    Students may complete all non-nursing coursework in the beginning of the program or opt to take non-nursing courses as they are progressing through the nursing core. However, students may only have 6 credit hours of outstanding non-nursing credit left when registering for NUR 49800 Nursing Capstone course.

  • I was told I would get a tuition discount/scholarship. How does that work?

    A promotional scholarship for new students is applied by the Office of Financial Aid after you have been admitted and have registered for classes. Additional tuition reductions/scholarships are available to eligible individuals based on employment with a partnership hospital or attendance at a partner community college.

    If you need help clarifying your eligibility for a promotional scholarship/tuition reduction, please contact your PNW Enrollment Specialist.

    Promotional scholarships are awarded based on the information submitted on your application. To update/confirm that your records correctly reflect any promotion eligibility, you must contact PNW Admissions.

    Tuition rates are adjusted prior to the start of courses. You must first be registered in order to see tuition adjustments related to a promotional scholarship/tuition reduction.

  • Where can I find the RN-to-BSN student handbook?

    You can access the RN-to-BSN student handbook online.

  • What is the withdrawal policy?

    Students that choose to withdraw from their course(s) can email their registration coordinator for assistance. Please note that you will not receive a refund. 

    View the Withdrawal Policy

  • Where do I send my official transcripts?

    Schools or third-party transcript services can send your official electronic transcripts to bsn_adms@pnw.edu.

    The mailing address for transcripts is:

    Office of Undergraduate Admissions
    Lawshe Building, Room 259
    Purdue University Northwest
    2200 169th Street
    Hammond, IN 46323-2094

    For more questions about transcripts, visit our general nursing FAQs page.

  • How do I find information on the application process and what are the requirements?

    You can find information on the application process at the following link:
    https://nursingonline.pnw.edu/admissions/rn-to-bsn/

  • Am I eligible for any scholarships?

    You could be eligible for a $1,000 scholarship if you are employed by one of Purdue Northwest partner hospitals located in Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin or are a Pathways student with one of the Purdue Northwest partner institutions.

    In addition, you may be eligible for a new student scholarship for $1,000.

  • Are there clinical requirements for the RN-to-BSN program?

    Clinical requirements are satisfied in several ways. You will be assessing virtual patients in NUR 38801 – Health Assessment For The Nursing Professional with a product called Shadow Health. Likewise, in NUR 48300 – Community and Public Health Nursing, you will use Sentinel City to virtually assess the needs of a community. Your NUR 49800 – Capstone Course in Nursing will require that you perform an evidence-based project with an identified local community need. The purpose of this experiential learning course is to provide you with the opportunity to apply and integrate knowledge from previous coursework in the development of an evidence-based practice proposal.

  • What if I need to take a break in the program?

    We hope that the flexibility of the coursework will allow you to finish the course you are currently taking. If you cannot continue and you withdraw from the course, you can retake the course you dropped when it is offered. The last day to withdraw from a course is Friday during the fourth week of the course. Students who need to take an Interruption in the Plan of Study should consult that section of the handbook.

  • Can I take more than one nursing course in the Carousel of Nursing Courses at a time?

    The curriculum is designed to have students focus on one course over a 5-week period with the exception of NUR 39100 and NUR 39401, which are taken concurrently. Students who choose to progress quickly can complete at least three courses over each semester. Students may also take non-nursing courses at the same time as nursing courses if they need to complete any general education requirements.

  • Can I take the capstone course when I have completed the nursing credits, but not the non-nursing courses?

    All outstanding nursing and non-nursing courses must be completed before enrolling in NUR 49800 – Capstone Course in Nursing.

  • Can I complete non-nursing coursework at another school after I have been admitted to PNW?

    Yes. Students may look into taking non-nursing courses at another school, perhaps a local community college. Students who choose this option must confirm with their Academic Advisor that the course will satisfy the requirements. Students can email their advisor the name of the school, course number, and a course description before enrollment to confirm the course will satisfy the requirements.

  • How long is the program?

    This program can be completed in as few as 16 months, pending review of all transfer credits. While there is no time limit to finishing the program, degree completion requirements are subject to change over time.

  • How much do the books cost?

    All textbooks required for the nursing curriculum are listed on the website via the RN-to-BSN Student Handbook. Textbook costs will vary, but many required texts are used in multiple courses.

  • Faculty and Academic Coaches

    Faculty teaching in the RN-BSN Completion Program are rated as excellent instructors and expert practitioners. The faculty teaching hold advanced degrees, many are active in nursing practice and research, as well as certified as advanced practice nurses.

    Academic coaches play a crucial role in creating support for the student and connecting students with faculty. All hold advanced degrees; many are active in nursing practice and research and are certified as advanced practice nurses. Academic coaches:

    • Track student participation and monitor student progress
    • Reach out to students to determine if and when help is needed
    • Direct students to resources in the course (or outside the course)

    In an accelerated, online learning environment, strong communication is essential to successful course/program completion. Contact your academic coach or faculty with course-specific questions. They are the best qualified to assist you with questions related to course content, course progress, or the award of final grades.

    Likewise, if you are struggling in class, your academic coach and faculty provide strategies for success. Your faculty and academic coaches may be a resource when seeking letters of recommendation for graduate education. Email is the preferred and quickest method of communication for the RN-BSN program as it provides a written record, time stamp and can be sent directly to the people who can best assist in a particular situation.

    Additional communications between students and university personnel may be arranged directly. Please see your syllabus for contact information. If you cannot reach your academic coach or faculty, please contact the Interim Director of Online Programs, Cari Furst, at cfurst@pnw.edu for assistance.

RN-to-BSN Payments

  • Are refunds given for courses?

    The refund policy for the online RN-to-BSN program is as follows:

    • Before the first session class day, 100% refund for drops or session withdrawals
    • No refund for drops or withdrawals after the first class day

RN-to-BSN Coursework and Grading

  • How many courses and credit hours comprise the program?

    The RN-to-BSN program consists of 12 required nursing courses. The RN-to-BSN program is 120 credit hours. The credit hours break down as follows:

    • Nursing courses taken with PNW: 34 credits
    • Non-nursing courses: 56 credits (32 credits are completed prior to admission; you can transfer in the remaining 24 credits or choose from our wide array of electives)
    • Nursing transfer credit for your ASN/ADN: 30
    • Total RN-to-BSN credits: 120

    View the program handbook for more information on nursing courses and credit requirements.

  • How long does it take to complete the program?

    The RN-to-BSN degree program can be completed in as few as 16 months with our standard track, or as few as 10 months with our PowerPath track, when applying transfer credit toward non-nursing courses. The time frame is based on the 34 nursing credits required at PNW; additional courses may increase the time required to complete the program.

  • What if an emergency happens and I have to take a temporary break from the program?

    We hope that the flexibility of the coursework will allow you to finish the course you are currently taking. If you cannot continue and you withdraw from the course, you can re-enter later in the sequence and take the course you dropped when it is re-offered. You must withdraw by the drop deadline posted under Important Dates to receive a “W.”

  • Are there clinical requirements for the RN-to-BSN degree?

    There are no clinical requirements in the traditional sense. Because you are a practicing RN, clinicals are accomplished virtually through simulation and projects that can be completed close to home.

It's Your Time.
Power Onward at PNW.

NOTES AND CONDITIONS

BSN 16-Month Completion Time: 16-month time frame based on the 34 nursing credits required at PNW when transferring 86 credits toward the degree; additional courses may increase the time required to complete the program. Diplomas are awarded in January, June and August. 

PowerPath 10-Month Track: Available for RN-to-BSN students only. All non-nursing requirements must be completed before enrollment. Students unable to continue courses on the accelerated 10-month track will switch to the standard 16-month track, but may not switch back to PowerPath. Please contact your Academic Advisor for more information.

BSN Tuition and Scholarships: Tuition is based on a student transferring 86 credits toward the degree. Tuition for the 34 nursing credits required at PNW is $13,477.26. New students who are employed by one of PNW’s hospital partners or are current students at one of PNW’s community college partners may receive scholarships to reduce tuition for the nursing credits to $10,199.26. Program cost will increase for students who do not bring in maximum credit. Scholarship eligibility is subject to change for students who have previously dropped out of the program. Additional fees may apply. New students who are not eligible for the partner scholarship will pay $329.39 per credit hour. A 3-credit hour class will cost $988.17 with a total cost of $11,199.26. The University reserves the right to increase prices and/or discontinue the scholarship at any time. Tuition and fees are subject to change by the Board of Trustees. An equal access/equal opportunity university

RN Job Growth: Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Registered Nurses

Textbook Fee: The instructional material access fee is $299 per semester and is applicable to both BSN and MSN programs. The fee is not included in total tuition. All students are automatically entered into the access program and must opt out if they do not want to participate. For more information, visit www.pnw.edu/bursar/tuition-and-fees/instructional-materials-access/.