The role of the nurse in today’s healthcare environment is far-reaching. Nurses are expected to work within complex systems and assist their patients in navigating these systems. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) recognizes the rapidly changing and complex healthcare arena. According to AACN, registered nurses require a more diversified knowledge base to function efficiently and effectively meet the needs of the future. While noting the historical value of the associate degree nurse, AACN supports the baccalaureate degree as the minimal educational requirement for the professional nurse.
It is from this foundation that Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) programs were built. Requirements in programs like Lamar University’s fully online RN to BSN expand on the fundamental knowledge already gained by the registered nurse through their associate degree and clinical experience. As explained by AACN in a fact sheet on degree completion programs, “RN to BSN programs build on initial nursing preparation with course work to enhance professional development, prepare for a broader scope of practice, and provide a better understanding of the cultural, political, economic, and social issues that affect patients and influence care delivery.”
General Education Studies
General education courses for RN to BSN students ensure those students receive a well-rounded, baccalaureate-level education. As RN to BSN programs are generally designed and thought of as “degree completion” or “bridge” programs, many students transfer in a large portion of the required general education credits from previous collegiate studies. For instance, core course requirements in Lamar University’s RN to BSN total 30 credit hours. Thus, nurses who have already satisfied general education requirements can complete Lamar University’s program in as few as 13 months.
Yet, even general education courses prepare nurses to function more effectively and efficiently in the rapidly changing healthcare environment. General education studies for RN to BSN nurses can be applied to their work every day in dynamic ways, such as with the following courses:
- Statistic courses help nurses better evaluate the research and evidence that inform nursing practice, improving patient care and health outcomes.
- Psychology coursework helps nurses understand the multifaceted, holistic aspects of patient health, well-being and history.
- Political science studies illuminate the impact of governmental and regulatory changes on patients and the nursing profession.
- Public speaking coursework equips nurses with the communication skills needed for leadership roles.
- History, English and liberal arts provide nurses with a balanced, professional education while preparing them with knowledge that can be useful in nontraditional nursing roles.
Nursing Courses
Clinically focused nursing education courses in an online RN to BSN program typically cover topics like:
- Nursing theories
- Holistic health assessment
- Evidenced-based practice
- Community-based health
- Leadership and professionalism
Although RNs may have extensive experience, a BSN will expand their knowledge and help them fit into the larger healthcare landscape. Nursing today is more than just patient care; the nurse of today needs to understand psychosocial issues, theory, policy and technology. They need to understand the bigger picture influencing their practice. Consequently, RN to BSN programs are designed to meet nurses’ evolving educational needs and help them better serve the public at large.
Learn more about Lamar University’s online RN to BSN program.
