As the population ages and life expectancy increases due to medical advances, the need for highly educated nurses will increase. Accordingly, industry associations and regulatory bodies like the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Magnet Recognition Program, the state of New York and others are raising the bar for registered nurses (RNs), supporting the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) as the expected minimum preparation in the field.
In response to this shift in nursing education expectations and requirements, degree programs have increased across the country, especially online RN to BSN programs. According to AACN, 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.”
Better and Faster Degrees
Although many nurses receive their initial education via associate or diploma programs, many now move on to a BSN program shortly after graduation. The nursing workforce now recognizes the need for advanced degrees, especially for nurses seeking expanded career opportunities.
The advent of RN to BSN programs accelerated the advancement process. Students can complete most RN to BSN programs in fewer than two years. For example, Lamar University’s online RN to BSN can be completed in as few as 13 months.
For working nurses, the availability of online RN to BSN programs is particularly convenient in that it no longer causes severe disruptions to nurses’ personal and professional schedules. Online programs provide flexibility, allowing nurses to complete coursework whenever their schedules allow.
Continued Growth
According to AACN, the continued growth of RN to BSN programs results not only from nurses expanding their education but also from employer demands and preferences for bachelor’s degrees. In fact, 2022 was the first year when over 70% of RNs held a baccalaureate degree or higher, according to the 2022 National Nursing Workforce Study. This unprecedented shift results from expanded options offered by nursing schools that are attempting to meet the education needs of the nursing community.
As more nurses seek to continue their education, RN to BSN programs will continue to grow in size and number. Combined with the ease of online options that allow students to reach their personal and professional goals, RN to BSN programs will continue developing tomorrow’s graduates to grow with the healthcare industry.
Learn more about the Lamar University online RN to BSN program.
