The Essential Guide to Earning a Bachelor’s in Nursing

Are you interested in the field of nursing? Earning a Bachelor’s in Nursing is your first step in becoming a nurse.

What is a Bachelor’s in Nursing?

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is an undergraduate degree program designed to prepare individuals for a career in nursing. The curriculum of a BSN program integrates general education courses with specialized nursing coursework. The program strongly emphasizes clinical experience, offering students hands-on training in various healthcare settings like hospitals and clinics.

Beyond clinical skills, BSN programs prioritize the development of critical thinking, leadership, and communication skills. Graduates have the practical abilities to provide patient care and the analytical and interpersonal skills necessary for effective collaboration within healthcare teams.

A BSN is often a prerequisite for nursing licensure, allowing graduates to practice as registered nurses (RNs). Furthermore, the degree serves as a foundation for specialization in nursing, opening doors to advanced practice roles, leadership positions, and opportunities for career advancement.

What are some advantages of getting a BSN?

Earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree offers several advantages for individuals pursuing a career in nursing. Here are some key benefits:

1. Career Advancement: Having a BSN can open up opportunities for career advancement. It may qualify you for promotions and leadership roles within the nursing profession, allowing you to take on more responsibilities and have a broader impact on patient care.
2. Professional Development: BSN programs emphasize developing professional skills, communication, and collaboration with other healthcare professionals.
3. Higher Earning Potential: In many cases, nurses with a BSN degree may earn higher salaries than those with an associate degree or diploma. Some healthcare organizations offer increased compensation for BSN-prepared nurses. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses, on average, earn $81,220 annually.
4. Preparation for Specialized Roles: If you’re interested in pursuing specialized nursing roles or advanced practice nursing (such as nurse practitioner, nurse anesthetist, or nurse midwife), a BSN is typically a prerequisite for further education at the graduate level.
5. Meeting Industry Standards: The healthcare industry is evolving, and there is a growing emphasis on higher educational standards for nurses. As a result, many healthcare organizations encourage or require their nursing staff to hold BSN degrees.

It’s important to note that the specific advantages can vary depending on the individual’s career goals, the healthcare setting, and regional or organizational requirements.

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What makes Concordia’s Bachelor of Nursing program unique?

At Concordia, we offer three options for getting your Bachelor’s in Nursing.

1. Traditional– This program is for traditional undergraduate students and takes place on campus.
2. RN to BSN Completion– If you’re a working RN with an associate degree, our accelerated online RN to BSN program allows you to obtain your BSN degree and advance in your career.
3. Accelerated Second Degree BSN– Our program is available for those who have already earned at least a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field and are ready to transition their career into nursing.

Our exceptional instructors contribute to a personalized learning experience for our students. Furthermore, these committed educators provide customized attention and incorporate current real-life examples and research into the classroom.

How is Concordia University unique?

Concordia is a Lutheran Christian school that integrates those Christian values with our programs. In this model, students acquire knowledge and skills in liberal arts disciplines that prepare them to serve Christ in the Church and the world. We bring a holistic approach to every class we offer our students.

We challenge our students academically and allow them to grow spiritually with us in ways they may not find at other universities. Concordia is a community whose calling is to ensure student success and well-being. 

How long does it typically take to complete the degree?

1. Traditional– 4 years
2. RN to BSN Completion– 24 months
3. Accelerated Second Degree BSN– 15 months

What format is offered? How long are the classes?

1. Traditional– In-person
2. RN to BSN Completion– Online
3. Accelerated Second Degree BSN– In-person

How much does the program cost?

1. Traditional– Tuition & Fees
2. RN to BSN Completion– $475 per credit
3. Accelerated Second Degree BSN– $12,690 per semester

Are there scholarships available?

Yes! We have Uncommon Scholarships available for many qualified students. Our available scholarships include:

• Business Community Scholarship: If you are an employee of one of our corporate partners, you may qualify for this scholarship.
• Academic Community Scholarship: If you are an employee of one of our Preferred Education Partner schools or districts, you may qualify for this scholarship. 
• Christian Community Scholarship: If you are an employee of any qualifying Christian church or Christian K-12 school, you may qualify for this scholarship. 
• Alumni Scholarship: If you graduate from one of Concordia University System school programs, you may qualify for this scholarship.
• Veterans and Dependents Scholarship: If you are a veteran, the spouse of a veteran, or a child of a veteran(age 17-26), you may qualify for this veteran scholarship when federal veteran education benefits are exhausted or unavailable to you.

When funding your education, talk with your employer to see if they will be willing to pay a portion of your tuition. There may be funds, scholarships, or benefits their companies may offer.

Requirements

Traditional Program

Entrance Requirements

Students accepted into Concordia are also accepted directly into the nursing major. To begin nursing courses and clinical, students must successfully meet the following progression requirements:

• Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 (Transfer students require a 3.0 GPA from their previous institution)
• Minimum science GPA of ≥ 2.75 with ≥ C in each of the following courses:
  • BIO 149 Microbiology (or higher level microbiology course with lab section)
  • BIO 191 Human Anatomy & Physiology 1 (or higher level human anatomy & physiology course with lab section)
  • BIO 192 Human Anatomy & Physiology 2 (or higher level human anatomy & physiology course with lab section)
  • CHEM 105 General & Biological Chemistry (or higher level chemistry course with lab section)
  • Note: Science courses must be completed within the last 5 years and may only be repeated once.
• Minimum math requirements:
  • A minimum grade of C in college algebra or higher level math course (statistics, pre-calculus, or calculus), OR
    Waiver score of 4 or 5 on AP Statistics or AP Calculus exam, OR CLEP credits for college algebra.
• For ESL students, a language test score:
  • TOEFL ≥ 75 OR
  • IELTS ≥ 6.5
• American Heart Association CPR (BLS) certification
• State Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) credentials
• Adherence to all components of the Clinical Requirements Timeline found in the School of Nursing Clinical Resource Guide.

Admissions Requirements

• Apply Online
• Send official high school transcripts

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RN to BSN Completion

Entrance Requirements

• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) from a regionally accredited institution
• Passed the NCLEX exam
• Hold a current unencumbered RN license in the U.S.
• Must be employed as an RN throughout the program
• A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher

Admission Requirements

• Apply Online
• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended were sent to NursingCAS
• Current CV/Resume
• Copy of current unencumbered RN licensure in the U.S.

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Accelerated Second Degree BSN

Entrance Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited university
• Overall GPA of 2.75 or higher
• B or higher in the following courses: Anatomy and Physiology I; Anatomy and Physiology II; Chemistry; Microbiology
• C or higher in College Algebra
• Upon acceptance to the program, students must complete:
  • Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) course
  • American Heart Association Basic Life Support for Healthcare Professionals CPR certification

Admission Requirements

• Apply Online
• Current CV or resume that includes educational and professional experience
• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
• Two letters of recommendation
• A personal essay addressing the following points; this should be an example of your best writing and should not exceed 350 words per discussion point
  • Describe why you are choosing a career in nursing
  • Concordia University is Christ-centered, valuing truth, integrity, excellence, and service. How does this fit with your values and beliefs?
  • In reflection on your qualifications as a candidate for our program, describe how you will manage your time and financial responsibilities to be successful in an accelerated nursing program

Interested?

Contact our admissions team to learn more about earning a Bachelor’s in Nursing degree.