Western Governor University (WGU) is a reputable online institution that offers a range of degree programs, including the RN to BSN (Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program. This program is designed for licensed registered nurses who want to advance their education and career prospects by earning a bachelor's degree in nursing. In this article, we will delve into the details of WGU's RN to BSN program, its benefits, and what students can expect from this online degree program.
Overview of WGU’s RN to BSN Program
WGU’s RN to BSN program is a competency-based program that allows students to progress through the coursework at their own pace. The program is designed to be flexible and accommodating, making it ideal for working nurses who need to balance their education with their professional and personal responsibilities. The program consists of 90 competency units, which are divided into various courses and assessments. Students can complete the program in as little as 12 months, although the average completion time is around 18 months.
Admission Requirements
To be eligible for WGU’s RN to BSN program, students must meet certain admission requirements. These include:
- Holding a current, unencumbered RN license in the United States
- Holding an associate’s degree or diploma in nursing
- Holding a minimum of 24 transferable credits from a regionally accredited institution
- Meeting the program’s prerequisites, which include courses in English, math, and science
Once students have met these requirements, they can apply for admission to the program. The application process typically involves submitting transcripts, test scores, and other supporting documents.
Program Curriculum
The curriculum for WGU’s RN to BSN program is designed to build on the knowledge and skills that students have acquired through their previous education and experience. The program consists of various courses and assessments, including:
| Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|
| Foundations of Nursing Practice | 3 |
| Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice | 3 |
| Health Assessment and Promotion | 3 |
| Community Health and Population-Focused Nursing | 3 |
| Leadership and Management in Nursing | 3 |
These courses are designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of nursing theory, research, and practice. Students will also complete a capstone project, which requires them to apply their knowledge and skills to a real-world problem or issue in nursing.
Benefits of the Program
WGU’s RN to BSN program offers several benefits to students, including:
- Flexibility and convenience: The program is designed to be flexible and accommodating, allowing students to complete coursework on their own schedule.
- Affordability: WGU’s tuition rates are competitive with other online institutions, making the program an affordable option for students.
- Personalized learning: WGU’s competency-based model allows students to progress through the coursework at their own pace, ensuring that they master the material before moving on to the next course.
- Support from faculty and mentors: Students in the program have access to faculty and mentors who can provide guidance and support throughout their education.
These benefits make WGU's RN to BSN program an attractive option for licensed registered nurses who want to advance their education and career prospects.
Accreditation and Licensure
WGU’s RN to BSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), which is a national accrediting agency for nursing education programs. The program is also approved by the Utah State Board of Nursing and the Arizona State Board of Nursing. Graduates of the program are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) and become licensed as registered nurses in their state.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of WGU’s RN to BSN program can pursue a variety of career opportunities in nursing, including:
- Staff nursing: Graduates can work as staff nurses in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings.
- Nurse management: Graduates can pursue leadership roles in nursing, such as nurse manager or director of nursing.
- Nurse education: Graduates can teach nursing courses at community colleges, universities, or vocational schools.
- Public health nursing: Graduates can work in public health settings, such as health departments or non-profit organizations.
These career opportunities are available to graduates of WGU's RN to BSN program, and the program's emphasis on competency-based learning and real-world applications prepares students for success in these roles.
What is the average completion time for WGU’s RN to BSN program?
+The average completion time for WGU’s RN to BSN program is around 18 months, although students can complete the program in as little as 12 months.
Is WGU’s RN to BSN program accredited?
+Yes, WGU’s RN to BSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and approved by the Utah State Board of Nursing and the Arizona State Board of Nursing.
What are the admission requirements for WGU’s RN to BSN program?
+To be eligible for WGU’s RN to BSN program, students must hold a current, unencumbered RN license, an associate’s degree or diploma in nursing, and meet the program’s prerequisites, which include courses in English, math, and science.
