RN-BSN
A Bachelor of Science in Nursing can help you improve patient outcomes and quality of care and may also be a step toward a better job and a bigger salary.
Online RN-Bachelor of Science in Nursing FAQs
How long does it take to complete the program?
Full-time students can complete the degree in about 18 to 24 months with continuous enrollment. To be considered full-time, a student must be enrolled in at least six credit hours each 8-week term. Part-time students can complete the degree requirements in about three years with continuous enrollment.
Is financial aid available?
Yes. To be eligible for federal financial aid, you must be enrolled in at least 3 credit hours each 8-week term. For more information about financial aid, please visit our Financial Aid page.
Do you offer credit for life/work experience?
If approved, a student may be eligible for life experience credit for a required nursing course. Students must pass the online GE325 Life Experience Research course. This course will help the student prepare a portfolio that the Nursing Department faculty will evaluate to determine if a student's life/work experience meets the course objectives and requirements for a specific nursing course. If you are considering pursuing this option, please contact your advisor for further information.
Are clinicals required?
Yes. However, these clinicals are different from the ones you may have completed earlier in your education. The goal of the clinical experience is to accomplish certain course objectives, as opposed to a requirement to spend a certain number of hours in a specified setting. With your instructor's advice and guidance of a mentor/preceptor of your choice, (he/she must have at least a bachelor's degree in nursing); the clinical experience will be a project of interest to you that can be conducted at your place of work or within your community. The two courses that require clinical experiences are NU525 Community Health Nursing and NU550 Leadership in Nursing. When these classes begin, your instructor will provide you and your mentor/preceptor with the assignment requirements.
Is proctoring required for exams?
For most courses, proctoring is not required. You will complete final exams in the online classroom.
How much time is required each week to complete course assignments?
Expect to spend approximately 15 hours each week for one 3-credit hour course.
How often will I need to come to the main campus?
You will do all coursework online. You may participate in graduation ceremonies on the main campus in Leavenworth, Kansas, which take place in May.
Do you offer a Master of Science in Nursing online program?
Not at this time.
What is the tuition rate for online courses?
Tuition for the RN-BSN is $390 per credit hour, which includes a technology fee for online courses. Please note that tuition and fees are subject to change.
Are there other costs besides books and tuition?
Depending on where you choose to complete your mentored experience, you may need to provide documentation of health status, criminal background check, etc., fees for which would be your responsibility. Refer to the university catalog for information about all tuition and fees (e.g. graduation, ordering transcripts, etc). There is a small technology fee assessed for each online course.
Is the RN to BSN program accredited?
Yes. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of Saint Mary is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Information related to this accreditation may be obtained by contacting CCNE at One Dupont Circle, NW, Suite 530, Washington, DC 20036, (202) 887-6791. Additionally, the University of Saint Mary (USM) is accredited by the North Central Association of Schools & Colleges, one of the six regional accreditation agencies in the U.S.
Have more questions? Call us at 877-307-4915 or request more information.