RN to BSN Programs in Rhode Island

As a licensed registered nurse in Rhode Island, the path to enhancing your career and salary prospects significantly lies in pursuing an RN to BSN degree. These programs are tailored to build upon your existing knowledge from an ADN, honing your skills for advanced nursing roles. With Rhode Island’s nursing landscape evolving rapidly, a BSN degree not only increases job security but also opens doors to diverse opportunities. The state’s need for qualified nurses is pressing, with a projection of 13,340 new RNs needed by 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics and other government sources.

RN to BSN programs in Rhode Island are designed for swift and affordable completion, respecting the busy schedules of working nurses. These programs, many of which are available online, allow you to balance your career and educational aspirations without sacrificing one for the other. BSN-prepared nurses in Rhode Island enjoy a considerable salary advantage, with an average annual income of $85,270, surpassing that of their ADN-prepared counterparts. This financial incentive, coupled with the state’s growing demand for nurses, makes the pursuit of a BSN a wise investment for your future. BSN-educated nurses are often preferred by employers, especially those seeking Magnet status, a recognition of excellence in nursing. The opportunities post-BSN are diverse, ranging from management and clinical research to education roles, adding substantial depth and breadth to your nursing career.

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

#1 in Rhode Island

Rhode Island College

School of Nursing

  • Pin1
    600 Mount Pleasant Ave, Providence, RI - 02908
  • Tel1
    (401) 456-8000
  • Programs: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
  • Award Levels: Bachelor, MSN, RN to BSN
Person
Nurse Admin: Justin DiLibero, DNR APRN CCRN-K, CCNS, ACCNS-AG, FCNS
Title: Interim Dean

University Information

  • Faculty Total Faculty: 319
  • Tuition In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $10,702
  • Book Book and Supplies: $1,200
  • Receiving Aid Percent Received Aid: 93%
  • Scholarship Average Grant or Scholarship: $5,674
  • Admitted Percent Admitted: 81%
  • Enrolled Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 21%
  • Graduation Rate Graduation Rate: 46%

Highlights for RN to BSN Students

  • Credit for Prior Learning: Receive 37 transfer credits for your previous nursing courses.
  • Flexible Scheduling: Courses are designed to accommodate the complex schedules of working RNs.
  • Comprehensive Curriculum: Engage in a wide range of courses including physical assessment, public health, and contemporary nursing practice.
  • Personalized Learning Experience: Benefit from individualized learning experiences and career development advising.
  • Graduation Requirements: Earn a total of 30 credits at Rhode Island College to graduate.
  • Transfer Credits Acceptance: Additional credits for general education recognized, minimizing your time to degree completion.
  • Supportive Admission Process: Guidance is provided through a two-step admission process, catering to RNs.

About Rhode Island College's Nursing School

Founded in 1854, Rhode Island College is a leading institution of higher learning in the Northeast. The college is well-known for its top-notch academic offerings and individualized, experiential learning opportunities. Its Zvart Onanian School of Nursing is notable for its dedication to teaching and getting graduates ready for the complicated healthcare environments of today.

This nursing school is praised for its cutting-edge teaching methodology, which integrates professional cooperation, personal development, and intellectual advancement. With the use of cutting edge technology, simulated clinical scenarios, and extensive clinical experiences, the school makes sure that all of its students are ready for careers in the medical field. Its academic members have a strong commitment to providing excellent instruction in both clinical and classroom settings.

The school's NCLEX-RN licensure exam pass rates consistently outperform state and national averages, showcasing the effectiveness of its educational approach. Additionally, its focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion prepares nurses to address structural racism and systemic inequity, promoting improved health outcomes for all.

Enrolling in the Zvart Onanian School of Nursing at Rhode Island College entails becoming a part of an institution that prioritizes excellence, creativity, and a dedication to meeting the medical needs of a wide range of populations.

About Rhode Island College's RN to BSN Program

Rhode Island College's RN to BSN program is designed for registered nurses who want to advance their careers. The program provides an enriching experience that is in line with the demands of working registered nurses in collaboration with Marian Adult Programs. Here, you can expect career-advancing flexibility, extensive courses, and customized learning opportunities.

After completing a transition course, you will study specific nursing topics such as public health nursing, physical assessment, and modern nursing practice. The university also acknowledges previous nursing education, granting you 37 transfer credits. Moreover, it accepts additional general education credits to help you finish the degree more quickly. The program's dedication to supporting working RNs is seen in the availability of both day and evening courses. The RN to BSN route integrates liberal arts and nursing courses to improve your critical thinking and communication abilities, preparing you for leadership roles in the field.

Hence, the RN to BSN program at Rhode Island College is notable for its high caliber, adaptability, and dedication to training nurses for leadership positions in a changing healthcare setting. See the RN to BSN Program at Rhode Island College for more details and to advance your nursing career.

#2 in Rhode Island

University of Rhode Island

College of Nursing

  • Pin1
    Green Hall, 35 Campus Avenue, Kingston, RI - 02881
  • Tel1
    (401) 874-1000
  • Programs: Adult Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, CNL, Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
  • Award Levels: APRN Certificate, Bachelor, BSN to DNP, Doctor of Nursing, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate, RN to BSN
Person
Nurse Admin: Betty Rambur, PhD, RN FAAN
Title: Interim Dean

University Information

  • Faculty Total Faculty: 785
  • Tuition In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $15,332
  • Book Book and Supplies: $1,250
  • Receiving Aid Percent Received Aid: 98%
  • Scholarship Average Grant or Scholarship: $11,835
  • Admitted Percent Admitted: 76%
  • Enrolled Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 18%
  • Graduation Rate Graduation Rate: 71%

Highlights for RN to BSN Students

  • Realistic Workforce Development: Collaborate with medical organizations to provide a customized learning experience.
  • Flexible Learning Options: Select an online or on-campus program that best suits your schedule and particular way of life.
  • Academic Excellence: Take advantage of nursing courses that are specifically tailored to your current abilities and expertise.
  • Personalized Admissions Process: Benefit from a helpful and transparent admissions process that has particular requirements for transfer students.
  • Credit Transferability: Enjoy ample opportunities to transfer credits to further enhance your prior academic successes.
  • Diverse Curriculum: To enhance your nursing education, consider taking graduate-level courses in a variety of areas.
  • Focused Learning Community: Join a group of peers who have comparable experiences and career aspirations.

About the University of Rhode Island's Nursing School

A perfect example of academic brilliance and creativity is the esteemed land-grant research university, the University of Rhode Island (URI). This university houses the esteemed College of Nursing. In this college, you'll find a supportive atmosphere that blends the small-town charm of a university with the vibrant experiences of a much bigger one.

Why pick URI's nursing program? It's a place where cutting-edge research meets practical application. Groundbreaking studies, like those on umbilical cord clamping, are transforming medical practices worldwide. The faculty of the College of Nursing is well known for their creative research projects that cover a wide range of important healthcare domains.

The university is unrivaled in its dedication to giving each student individual attention. Faculty advisors work closely with you to tailor clinical experiences to your career goals.  The Living and Learning Community enhances this experience, fostering study groups and community building within the nursing major.

URI College of Nursing will put you on the path of professional development because they equip you for success in a variety of nursing roles.

About the University of Rhode Island's RN to BSN Program

The University of Rhode Island's RN to BSN program provides evidence of the school's dedication to cutting-edge, applied nursing education. This program, which is tailored to registered nurses with an Associate Degree or Diploma in Nursing, offers both on-campus and online tracks to accommodate your schedule and requirements.

This program is unique in that it maintains tight ties with clinical organizations to ensure that the curriculum is up-to-date with regards to workforce development and modern nursing practice. The curriculum enables a large number of transfer credits, meaning that your prior academic accomplishments are valued and acknowledged, even though you must complete 120 credits to graduate.

At URI, the emphasis is on offering a learning experience that is both intellectually demanding and adaptable to the hectic schedules of practicing nurses. Whether you choose the on-campus or the accelerated online track, you'll find a curriculum that is rich, diverse, and tailored to advance your career in nursing.

With particular prerequisites outlined for transfer students, the admissions procedure is supportive and transparent. Such guarantees a seamless transition into the program. In order to ensure that you are academically equipped for the demands of advanced nursing practice, the program requires a minimum GPA for progression and graduation.

Enrolling in the RN to BSN program at the University of Rhode Island means joining a program that values your experience, supports your career aspirations, and equips you with the knowledge and skills for leadership roles in healthcare.

#3 in Rhode Island

Salve Regina University

Department of Nursing

  • Pin1
    100 Ochre Point Avenue, Newport, RI - 02840-4192
  • Tel1
    (401) 847-6650
  • Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
  • Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, Bachelor, BSN to DNP, MSN, MSN to DNP, RN to BSN
Person
Nurse Admin: Elizabeth Bloom, PhD, RN
Title: Chair

University Information

  • Faculty Total Faculty: 116
  • Tuition In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $1,500
  • Book Book and Supplies: N/A
  • Receiving Aid Percent Received Aid: 100%
  • Scholarship Average Grant or Scholarship: $23,318
  • Admitted Percent Admitted: 75%
  • Enrolled Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 15%
  • Graduation Rate Graduation Rate: 76%

Highlights for RN to BSN Students

  • Online Flexibility: Because the RN to BSN program is entirely online, you can manage your studies alongside your obligations to your family and job.
  • Accelerated Completion: Complete your degree in as little as 12 months, perfect for those eager to advance quickly.
  • Excellence in Accredited Education: Both CCNE and the New England Commission of Higher Education accredit the program
  • Personal and Professional Growth: The program prepares you for advanced responsibilities and higher salaries in nursing. It also improves your competencies in patient-centered care.
  • Mentoring and Assistance: Get the support of committed academic advisers and success coaches who will walk you through each stage of the process.
  • Flexible Entry Points: You can start your studies whenever it's most convenient for you, as there are six start dates available annually.
  • Accessible and Affordable: There's a range of financial help available. Also, nurses from partner institutions and military personnel receive preferred tuition rates.

About Salve Regina University's Nursing School

Expanding your career opportunities as a nurse often starts with education. At Salve Regina University, a BSN offers greater salary potential while paving the way for opportunities in specialized fields. The university's Department of Nursing stands out for its commitment to developing clinically competent, ethically grounded, and liberally educated professional nurses.

Salve Regina University, a Catholic, coeducational institution founded in 1934, boasts a rich history and a diverse array of programs. Its Nursing Department, accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, offers a B.S. in nursing for licensed registered nurses and is recognized for its commitment to patient-centered care. This ethos is embedded in all aspects of the curriculum, ensuring graduates are not just skilled healthcare providers but also compassionate advocates for social justice.

The university's nursing programs emphasize hands-on learning, with clinical placements in hospitals and health care facilities. This approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared to meet the complex needs of individuals and communities they will serve. Salve Regina nurses emerge as lifelong learners, continuously developing in their roles and contributing significantly to the global health partnership.

About Salve Regina University's RN to BSN Program

When you're a nurse, continuing your education can be a transformative step in your career. Salve Regina University's RN to BSN program is designed specifically for nurses like you who already hold an RN license and are ready to advance further. This program combines the convenience of online learning with the rigor and quality of a traditional nursing education. In terms of reputation, it is ccredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Imagine being able to pursue your BSN online, at your own pace, and possibly completing it in just 12 months. Salve Regina's program offers this flexibility, with six start dates annually and a curriculum tailored to the needs of working professionals. The program's focus on patient-centered care, combined with its holistic approach, prepares you to make a significant impact on individual and community health.

Moreover, the program is an affordable option, especially for nurses from partner institutions and military members, thanks to preferred tuition rates. The 125-credit curriculum, recognizing your prior nursing education and experience, ensures a comprehensive yet efficient path to your BSN.

In this program, you'll receive mentorship and support from experienced faculty and success coaches, enriching your learning experience and guiding you towards achieving your personal and professional goals. Whether you aim for advanced employment, leadership positions, or simply to increase your expertise in patient care, Salve Regina’s RN to BSN program is an excellent choice.

See our Ranking Methodology

Rn To Bsn Programs In Rhode Island

RN to BSN Programs in Rhode Island

Admissions Requirements for Rhode Island RN to BSN Programs

Navigating the admission process for RN to BSN Programs in Rhode Island requires careful planning and preparation. Prospective students should bear in mind that acquiring some documents may take time. Here’s a breakdown of the typical admission requirements:

  • Active RN License: Applicants must possess a current, unencumbered RN license. It’s crucial to validate your Rhode Island RN license to ensure it’s up to date.
  • Associate Degree or Diploma in Nursing: A degree or diploma from an accredited nursing program is a must. Details about the accreditation can be checked at ACEN.
  • Transcripts: Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended must be submitted.
  • Minimum GPA: A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale is commonly required.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Some programs may require references or letters of recommendation.
  • Personal Statement: A personal statement, detailing your career goals and reasons for pursuing a BSN, might be required.
  • Application Fee: Submission of an application often requires payment of a fee.

Lastly, don’t neglect the financial aspect of your education. Remember to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) early in the process. This step is vital for accessing a variety of financial aid options, both public and private.

Typical RN to BSN Classes & Courses in Rhode Island

Embarking on an RN to BSN program involves tackling a varied and comprehensive curriculum. Here, we explore typical courses within RN to BSN Programs in Rhode Island:

  • Nursing Research: This course uncovers the fundamentals of research methods in healthcare, preparing nurses for evidence-based practice.
  • Leadership and Management in Nursing: Nurses learn the essentials of leadership, management theories, and their application in a healthcare setting.
  • Public and Community Health Nursing: Explores the nurse’s role in community health settings, emphasizing health promotion and disease prevention.
  • Healthcare Policy: This course provides an overview of healthcare policies, their formation, implementation, and impact on patient care.
  • Health Assessment: Focuses on comprehensive health assessments, including physical, psychological, social, and cultural aspects.
  • Pathophysiology: This class dives into disease processes, helping nurses understand how diseases affect body systems.
  • Nursing Informatics: Offers a look at how technology and information management can improve patient care.
  • Ethics in Nursing: Nurses study ethical theories and their application in healthcare, particularly in decision-making.
  • Advanced Pharmacology: Enhances understanding of drug classifications, actions, therapeutic uses, and potential adverse effects.
  • Health Promotion across the Lifespan: Covers health promotion strategies and interventions from infancy to old age.

One of the Rhode Island schools offering such courses in their RN to BSN program is the University of Rhode Island. Their program prepares nurses for advanced practice, leadership roles, and further education in graduate programs.

Online RN to BSN Programs in Rhode Island

Embarking on an RN to BSN degree is a significant step for any nursing professional. This guide provides an overview of the process involved in enrolling in RN to BSN Programs in Rhode Island.

The admission process generally involves:

  • Filling out an application form.
  • Providing evidence of an active RN license.
  • Submission of official transcripts demonstrating a minimum GPA, typically 2.5 to 3.0.
  • Writing a personal statement or essay.
  • Some programs may require letters of recommendation.

The timeline for admission can vary. Many schools in Rhode Island have rolling admissions, meaning they accept and review applications throughout the year. However, others may have specific application deadlines.

The program length also varies. Full-time students can typically complete RN to BSN programs in Rhode Island within 1 to 2 years. Part-time students might take 2 to 4 years to finish, depending on the course load they can handle alongside their work schedules.

As for online programs, the flexibility often allows for self-paced study. Online students can choose when to attend lectures, participate in discussions, and complete assignments, so long as they meet general deadlines.

Conclusively, RN to BSN programs offer nurses the chance to expand their skillsets, improve their career prospects, and provide a higher standard of care to their patients. The journey to a BSN may be a rigorous one, but the rewards often outweigh the challenges.

10 Scholarships for Rhode Island RN to BSN Nursing Students

Securing financial support can make the journey from an RN to a BSN more accessible for Rhode Island nurses. Here are ten scholarships that can provide some financial relief to these ambitious healthcare professionals:

Remember, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is an essential tool for accessing scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid. Completing the FAFSA accurately and on time opens up countless opportunities for public and private financial support for your nursing education.

Does an RN to BSN Degree Increase My Salary in Rhode Island

Pursuing RN to BSN Programs in Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island, you invest in your professional development and increase your potential for career advancement and higher earnings.

10 Ways to Pay for Your Rhode Island RN to BSN Program

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

  • 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: Rhode Island 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, Rhode Island nurses can find the financial support they need to complete RN to BSN Programs in Rhode Island and advance their careers.

Bridging the Gap: Rhode Island’s Drive for 80 Percent BSN

Rhode Island is committed to advancing nursing education, with many healthcare organizations and educational institutions supporting 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 Rhode Island play a crucial role in achieving this target by offering accessible and high-quality education opportunities for registered nurses.

The Rhode Island Action Coalition works to transform healthcare through nursing by implementing recommendations from the IOM’s Future of Nursing report. Additionally, the Rhode Island State Nurses Association advocates for higher nursing education standards, emphasizing the benefits of BSN degrees for both nurses and patients.

As healthcare organizations in Rhode Island 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.

Table RN to BSN Programs in Rhode Island

RN to BSN programs in Rhode Island offer nurses the opportunity to enhance their clinical skills and leadership abilities. These programs focus on evidence-based practice, interdisciplinary collaboration, and improved patient care outcomes.

University Offered asCity/State
Rhode Island College Campus, HybridProvidence, RI
University of Rhode Island Campus, Hybrid, OnlineKingston, RI
Salve Regina University Campus, HybridNewport, RI

10 Advantages of Earning an RN to BSN Degree for Rhode Island Nurses

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

  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 Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island, nurses invest in their professional development and increase their potential for career advancement and personal satisfaction within the nursing field.

RN to BSN Resources for Nurses in Rhode Island

Nurses pursuing RN to BSN programs in Rhode Island can access various resources tailored to support their professional growth and education. The following list provides valuable information and assistance for those seeking to advance their nursing careers in Rhode Island:

  • RN to BSN Programs in Your State: A comprehensive guide detailing accredited RN to BSN programs across the United States, including options available in Rhode Island.
  • Rhode Island Board of Nursing: The state regulatory body responsible for licensing and regulating nurses in Rhode Island, providing information on licensure, continuing education requirements, and nursing practice standards.
  • Rhode Island State Nurses Association: A professional organization that advocates for nurses, offering networking opportunities, continuing education resources, and up-to-date information on nursing issues in Rhode Island.
  • American Nurses Association – Rhode Island 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.
  • Rhode Island Action Coalition: An organization committed to transforming healthcare through nursing by implementing recommendations from the Institute of Medicine’s Future of Nursing report.

These resources are specifically designed to help RN to BSN students and graduates in Rhode Island 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.

Similar Posts