Best RN to BSN Programs in Hawaii 2024

Best RN to BSN Programs in Hawaii According to a Nurse Researcher

Are you an RN in the Aloha State ready to level up your career with a BSN degree? Hawaii, known for its stunning beaches and warm hospitality, is also a place for nursing career growth. Our guide will provide all the information you need on the two esteemed RN to BSN Programs in Hawaii.

First, we dive into the nitty-gritty of program rankings. This insight can help you choose between Hawaii Pacific University and the University of Hawaii at Manoa, the two stellar programs available. You’ll also get a thorough understanding of the admission requirements to prepare you for your application. This includes details on necessary prerequisites, transcripts, GPAs, and more.

Next, we look at a typical course outline. Whether you’re interested in leadership, research, public health, or health assessment, these programs offer varied courses to enhance your nursing expertise. Beyond academics, we touch on scholarships and financial aid options specific to Hawaii’s nurses, helping you ease the financial journey.

Lastly, we delve into current salaries and employment prospects. With a BSN under your belt, you could access new opportunities and potentially higher pay. Ready to navigate your BSN journey in the vibrant paradise of Hawaii? This guide is your compass.

What Are the Best RN to BSN Programs in in 2024 According to an RN Researcher?

#1 in Hawaii

#2 in Hawaii

See our Ranking Methodology

Admissions Requirements for Hawaii RN to BSN Programs

If you’re ready to embark on one of the RN to BSN Programs in Hawaii, understanding the admission requirements is your first step. These requirements can vary, but there are some key pieces of information that most programs will require. Some of these might take some time to gather, so it’s advisable to start early. Here’s what you’ll generally need:

• Application: Start by filling out an application for your chosen program. Most applications can be found on the university’s website.
• RN License: All applicants must have an active, unencumbered RN license. Hawaii nurses can verify their license through the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs.
• Transcripts: You will need official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended. This includes your associate degree in nursing program and any other college coursework.
• GPA: A minimum GPA is typically required, often 2.5 or higher. Check your program’s specific requirements.
• Prerequisite Courses: Some programs require completion of specific prerequisite courses before admission. These can vary, but often include subjects like anatomy, physiology, and microbiology.

While not a formal admission requirement, remember to fill out the FAFSA early in the process. This can open doors to federal, state, and institutional financial aid to help fund your degree. With this information in hand, you’ll be well-prepared to take your next step in advancing your nursing career in the Aloha State.

Typical RN to BSN Classes & Courses in Hawaii

For those considering RN to BSN Programs in Hawaii, it’s beneficial to understand the curriculum you’ll be undertaking. While specifics may vary between institutions, here are 10 typical courses you might find in your program. These courses, like those offered at Hawaii Pacific University, provide comprehensive knowledge and skill enhancement for RNs:

• Nursing Research: This course introduces methods and processes in nursing research, enabling nurses to interpret and apply research findings in their practice.
• Health Assessment: Students learn comprehensive assessment techniques to evaluate the health status of patients across the lifespan.
• Community Health Nursing: This course focuses on the nurse’s role in community health settings, emphasizing health promotion and disease prevention at the community level.
• Nursing Leadership and Management: Students gain skills in nursing leadership and management, preparing them to handle administrative roles and lead healthcare teams.
• Public Health: This course explores public health principles and their application in nursing, providing nurses with skills to work in population health and policy-making.
• Healthcare Informatics: Here, nurses learn about the use of information technology in healthcare, equipping them to use and implement electronic health records and other healthcare IT solutions.
• Healthcare Policy: This course investigates how healthcare policies are formed and their impact on healthcare practice, preparing nurses to be effective advocates for patient care.
• Pathophysiology: A deep dive into the disease processes across the human lifespan, aiding nurses in better understanding, diagnosing, and treating health conditions.
• Pharmacology: This course expands nurses’ knowledge of pharmacotherapeutics, ensuring safe and effective medication administration and patient education.
• Ethics in Healthcare: Students explore ethical issues and dilemmas in healthcare, preparing them to make ethical decisions in their nursing practice.

These courses in RN to BSN programs in Hawaii not only equip nurses with advanced clinical skills but also prepare them for leadership, advocacy, and innovative roles in the healthcare sector.

Online RN to BSN Programs in Hawaii

Taking the next step in your nursing career with RN to BSN Programs in Hawaii involves understanding the admission process, timeline, and program duration. Getting the timing right can make your journey to a BSN smoother and more manageable.

Admission Process:

• Submit an application online through the university’s portal.
• Provide all necessary documents, including official transcripts from all previously attended post-secondary institutions and proof of an active, unencumbered RN license in Hawaii.
• Some programs may also require letters of recommendation and a personal statement.

The Timeline for the admission process varies, but applicants generally start submitting their documents in spring for a fall admission and in the fall for a spring admission.

When it comes to the Program Length, online RN to BSN programs in Hawaii typically offer flexibility for working professionals. Full-time students can usually complete the program in about 12-18 months. For part-time students, balancing work and studies, the program may take about two to three years to complete.

In the pursuit of your BSN in Hawaii, it’s vital to confirm these details with your chosen institution, as timelines and requirements may vary. Your diligence now will serve to facilitate your journey towards advanced nursing practice in the Aloha State.

10 Scholarships for Hawaii RN to BSN Nursing Students

Financing your education is an essential consideration for RN to BSN programs. Fortunately, Hawaii Registered Nurses have access to a variety of scholarships designed to support their academic journey. Here are 10 scholarships you may find beneficial:

• Hawaii Community Foundation Scholarships: This foundation offers multiple scholarships for Hawaii residents, including nurses. Deadlines and award amounts vary.
• Queen’s Health Systems Native Hawaiian Health Scholarship: Offered to Native Hawaiian students studying healthcare fields. Deadline: May. Award: Varies.
• Hawaii Pacific Gerontological Society Nursing Scholarship: For students interested in geriatric nursing. Deadline: July. Award: $2,000.
• Maui Nurses Scholarship: Available to Maui county residents pursuing a nursing degree. Deadline: June. Award: Varies.
• Oahu Filipino Nurses’ Association Scholarship: For Filipino nursing students in Oahu. Deadline: June. Award: $500.
• Hawaii Emergency Physicians Associated Scholarship: For students pursuing an emergency medicine related field. Deadline: May. Award: $1,000.
• Hawaii Chapter of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association Scholarship: Available to psychiatric nursing students. Deadline: May. Award: $1,000.
• Maui Memorial Medical Center Foundation Nursing Scholarship: For Maui residents pursuing nursing. Deadline: March. Award: $1,000.
• Hawaii Nurses Association Scholarship: Offers several scholarships to members. Deadline: April. Award: Varies.
• Hawaii Association of Professional Nurses Scholarship: For professional nursing students in Hawaii. Deadline: May. Award: $500.

Remember, filing your FAFSA is crucial. It opens doors to a wide range of federal, state, and institutional financial aid opportunities, including loans, grants, and work-study programs, to support your RN to BSN journey in Hawaii.

Does an RN to BSN Degree Increase My Salary in Hawaii

Pursuing RN to BSN Programs in Hawaii can significantly impact your earning potential as a nurse. According to the 2023 BSN Comprehensive Salary Report, nurses with a BSN degree typically earn more than their counterparts with an associate degree or diploma in nursing.

Within the first two years of their careers, BSN-prepared nurses often see higher starting salaries compared to those with an associate degree. As their careers progress, the salary gap between BSN and non-BSN nurses continues to widen. After four years, BSN-educated nurses can expect even greater financial rewards due to their advanced education and skillset.

In addition to increased salary potential, earning a BSN degree provides several non-financial benefits:

• Expanded Opportunities: A BSN degree opens doors to a broader range of nursing roles, including leadership positions, specialized clinical roles, and community health settings.
• Higher Skill Level: Completing an RN to BSN program equips nurses with advanced clinical skills and a deeper understanding of evidence-based practice, enhancing their ability to provide high-quality patient care.
• Industry Preference: Many healthcare organizations in Hawaii prefer hiring BSN-prepared nurses due to their advanced education and training. Some employers even require a BSN degree for certain nursing positions.

By enrolling in RN to BSN Programs in Hawaii, you invest in your professional development and increase your potential for career advancement and higher earnings.

10 Ways to Pay for Your Hawaii RN to BSN Program

Explore these commonly known and lesser-known options to help pay for RN to BSN Programs in Hawaii:

• Federal Financial Aid: Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs.
• State Aid: Hawaii residents may qualify for state financial aid programs, which provides funding based on financial need and academic achievement.
• Scholarships: Apply for scholarships from various sources, including professional organizations, nursing schools, and community foundations. Many scholarships target specific populations or areas of nursing practice.
• Employer Tuition Reimbursement: Some employers offer tuition reimbursement programs for their nursing staff pursuing advanced degrees. Check with your employer for available opportunities.
• Work-Study Programs: Participate in work-study programs, which provide part-time employment opportunities to help cover educational expenses.
• Loan Forgiveness Programs: Explore loan forgiveness programs such as the Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program or the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program, which offer loan forgiveness in exchange for service in designated high-need areas.
• Military Benefits: Active-duty military personnel and veterans may qualify for educational benefits through programs like the GI Bill or the Tuition Assistance Program.
• Payment Plans: Many schools offer payment plans that allow students to pay tuition and fees in installments, making it easier to manage the cost of their education.
• Tax Credits: Take advantage of tax credits, such as the Lifetime Learning Credit or the American Opportunity Tax Credit, which can help offset educational expenses.
• Private Student Loans: Consider private student loans from banks or credit unions as a last resort if other funding options do not cover the full cost of your education.

By exploring these funding options, Hawaii nurses can find the financial support they need to complete RN to BSN Programs in Hawaii and advance their careers.

Bridging the Gap: Hawaii’s Drive for 80 Percent BSN

Hawaii recognizes the importance of advancing nursing education, with many healthcare organizations and educational institutions promoting the goal of having 80 percent of registered nurses hold a BSN degree. This objective aligns with the Institute of Medicine’s (IOM) recommendation for improving patient care and addressing the evolving demands of the healthcare industry. RN to BSN programs in Hawaii play a crucial role in achieving this target by offering accessible and high-quality education opportunities for registered nurses.

The Hawaii State Center for Nursing is committed to supporting nursing workforce development and has conducted research highlighting the need for an increased number of BSN-prepared nurses in the state. Additionally, the Hawaii Nurses Association advocates for higher nursing education standards, emphasizing the benefits of BSN degrees for both nurses and patients.

As healthcare organizations in Hawaii continue to prioritize hiring BSN-prepared nurses, it is essential for registered nurses to consider enrolling in RN to BSN programs to stay competitive in the job market and contribute to improving patient outcomes across the state.

10 Advantages of Earning an RN to BSN Degree for Hawaii Nurses

Earning an RN to BSN degree provides numerous benefits for nurses in Hawaii seeking career advancement and professional growth. Explore these 10 advantages of completing RN to BSN Programs in Hawaii:

1. Increased Salary Potential: BSN-prepared nurses often earn higher salaries compared to those with an associate degree or diploma in nursing.
2. Greater Job Opportunities: A BSN degree opens doors to a wider range of nursing roles, including leadership positions, specialized clinical roles, and community health settings.
3. Advanced Clinical Skills: Completing an RN to BSN program equips nurses with advanced clinical skills and a deeper understanding of evidence-based practice, enhancing their ability to provide high-quality patient care.
4. Employer Preference: Many healthcare organizations in Hawaii prefer hiring BSN-prepared nurses due to their advanced education and training.
5. Continuing Education: A BSN degree serves as a stepping stone for nurses interested in pursuing graduate degrees, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).
6. Professional Networking: Participating in RN to BSN programs allows nurses to connect with fellow professionals, fostering valuable relationships that can lead to future job opportunities and collaborations.
7. Improved Patient Outcomes: Research shows that hospitals with a higher percentage of BSN-prepared nurses have better patient outcomes, including lower mortality rates and fewer complications.
8. Leadership Development: RN to BSN programs often include coursework focused on leadership and management skills, preparing nurses for supervisory roles within their organizations.
9. Enhanced Communication Skills: Nurses with a BSN degree typically possess stronger communication skills, enabling them to collaborate more effectively with colleagues and advocate for their patients.
10. Greater Autonomy: BSN-prepared nurses may have increased autonomy in their practice, allowing them to make more independent decisions and contribute to patient care at a higher level.

By enrolling in RN to BSN Programs in Hawaii, nurses invest in their professional development and increase their potential for career advancement and personal satisfaction within the nursing field.

List of RN to BSN Programs in Hawaii

Hawaii Pacific University and the University of Hawaii at Manoa, the two RN to BSN Programs in Hawaii, open doors to career advancement and leadership roles for nurses. These programs not only deepen nurses’ clinical expertise but also equip them with crucial research, leadership, and community health skills.

University	Offered as	City/State
University of Hawaii at Hilo	Campus, Hybrid	Hilo, HI
Hawaii Pacific University	Campus	Honolulu, HI

RN to BSN Resources for Nurses in Hawaii

Nurses pursuing RN to BSN programs in Hawaii can benefit from various resources designed to support their professional growth and education. The following list provides valuable information and assistance for those seeking to advance their nursing careers in Hawaii:

• RN to BSN Programs in Your State: A comprehensive guide detailing accredited RN to BSN programs across the United States, including options available in Hawaii.
• Hawaii Board of Nursing: The state regulatory body responsible for licensing and regulating nurses in Hawaii, providing information on licensure, continuing education requirements, and nursing practice standards.
• Hawaii Nurses Association: A professional organization that advocates for nurses, offering networking opportunities, continuing education resources, and up-to-date information on nursing issues in Hawaii.
• American Nurses Association – Hawaii Chapter: The local chapter of the national organization dedicated to promoting nursing excellence, providing resources for professional development and opportunities to connect with fellow nurses in the state.
• Hawaii State Center for Nursing: An organization committed to ensuring a robust nursing workforce in Hawaii through research, collaboration, and support for nursing education and practice.

These resources are specifically tailored to help RN to BSN students and graduates in Hawaii navigate their educational journey and advance their careers in the nursing field.

Best Ranked RN to BSN Programs in Your State

Elevate your nursing career with our curated list of the best RN to BSN programs in each state. Transitioning from a Registered Nurse (RN) to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) opens doors to broader career prospects and deeper clinical knowledge. Our guide spotlights premier programs close to you, paving a well-marked path towards achieving your enhanced nursing ambitions.

See our ranking methodology for RN-to-BSN degree programs.