Nurse Researcher Review of RN to BSN Programs

Are you an RN and ready to earn your BSN degree? Or have you earned your two-year RN and are now eager to pursue a BSN? This guide will go over everything you need to know to earn your RN-BSN degree in the Magnolia State, Mississippi.

Mississippi offers 6 accredited RN to BSN programs designed to meet the diverse needs of nurses seeking career advancement. The guide provides detailed information on program rankings, helping you choose the best fit for your educational and professional goals. Additionally, it covers admission requirements, ensuring you are well-prepared for the application process. To give you a better understanding of the coursework involved, sample course outlines are also included.

To help ease the financial burden of furthering your education, the guide highlights scholarships specifically for Mississippi nurses and outlines various financial aid options available.

Gain insight into current salaries and employment prospects for BSN-prepared nurses in Mississippi. With this comprehensive resource, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate your path toward earning an RN-BSN degree in the Magnolia State.

Best Ranked RN to BSN Programs in Mississippi

#1 in Mississippi

Mississippi University for Women

College of Nursing and Health Sciences

  • Pin1
    1100 College Street, Columbus, MS - 39701
  • Tel1
    (662) 329-4750
  • Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
  • Award Levels: APRN Certificate, Associate, Bachelor, BSN to DNP, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate, RN to BSN
Person
Nurse Admin: Brandy Houlk Carmon, EdD, RN-BSN
Title: Dean

University Information

  • Faculty Total Faculty: 143
  • Tuition In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $1,600
  • Book Book and Supplies: N/A
  • Receiving Aid Percent Received Aid: 99%
  • Scholarship Average Grant or Scholarship: $6,221
  • Admitted Percent Admitted: 99%
  • Enrolled Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 37%
  • Graduation Rate Graduation Rate: 46%

Key RN to BSN Student Takeaways

  • Flexible Learning Options: The program offers both Part-time and Full-time options, providing the flexibility to work around your schedule.
  • Nationally Recognized: Get your degree from a program consistently ranked as top-notch, highlighting the quality and reputation of education.
  • Cost-Effective Education: Take advantage of the flat-rate $10,000 tuition costs for the entire program, irrespective of whether you're in-state or out-of-state student.
  • Online Learning: The program is designed for working nurses, delivered entirely online, ensuring you can balance ongoing work commitments.
  • Professional Growth: Enhance your career prospects by securing a BSN degree from a renowned institution.

About The Mississippi University's College of Nursing and Health Sciences

Looking to break new ground in nursing? Well, The W's RN to BSN Advanced Placement Option is simply perfect for you. It's designed just like you - a robust, resilient nurse seeking to augment your skills, knowledge, and marketability. The College of Nursing and Health Sciences at the Mississippi University stands tall, nationally recognized and accredited, offering state-of-the-art nursing programs such as the Associate of Science in Nursing, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing, the Master of Science in Nursing, and the Doctor of Nursing Practice.

This college is renowned for nurturing students to become award-winning nurses who contribute exceptional value to healthcare. The program develops your awareness of gender-related issues and multicultural diversity, key facets in delivering high-quality patient care in today's diverse healthcare environment. With small class sizes, you'll get the personalized learning experience needed to excel in your nursing career.

About The Mississippi University's RN to BSN Program

The RN to BSN Advanced Placement Option at The W is a nationally recognized, accredited program that promises not merely an education, but a launchpad to skyrocket your nursing career. Whether you're working and seeking a more flexible way to enhance your credentials, or you're ready to plunge full-time into elevating your expertise, this program has got you covered.

The RN to BSN program can be completed in five semesters part-time or three semesters full-time. The program is taught entirely online, and clinical hours are incorporated into the program, thereby blending theory and practical exposure seamlessly.

What sets this program apart is its sterling reputation, ranked 17th in the nation by Intelligent.com and 9th by Learn.org. These accolades underscore the quality of education and the program's commitment to preparing students for the challenges of the healthcare world.

You can apply to The W's RN to BSN program anytime, with flexible entry terms and a flat-rate, cost-effective tuition of just $10,000. A BSN from The Mississippi University is more than a degree - it's a passport to advancing your nursing career in meaningful and rewarding ways.

#2 in Mississippi

University of Southern Mississippi

College of Nursing

  • Pin1
    118 College Drive # 0001, Hattiesburg, MS - 39406-0001
  • Tel1
    (601) 266-1000
  • Programs: Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
  • Award Levels: APRN Certificate, Bachelor, Doctor of Nursing, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate, RN to BSN, RN to MSN
Person
Nurse Admin: Lachel Story, PhD, RN
Title: Dean and Professor

University Information

  • Faculty Total Faculty: 680
  • Tuition In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $9,204
  • Book Book and Supplies: $1,400
  • Receiving Aid Percent Received Aid: 94%
  • Scholarship Average Grant or Scholarship: $8,102
  • Admitted Percent Admitted: 96%
  • Enrolled Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 18%
  • Graduation Rate Graduation Rate: 50%

Key RN to BSN Student Takeaways

  • Online Convenience: Fully online, allowing you to balance work, life, and studies.
  • Flexible Start Times: Offering courses in 8 and 16-week intervals, starting in the fall, spring, or summer.
  • Career Advancement: Bolsters your healthcare knowledge and prospects, leading to potential career advancement and improved salaries.
  • No Chemistry Requirement: No requirement to take chemistry, which is a bonus for many students.
  • Timescale: The program can be completed in only two semesters, enabling you to advance quickly in your career.

About The University of Southern Mississippi's College of Nursing and Health Professions

The College of Nursing and Health Professions situated at the University of Southern Mississippi presents you a diverse array of healthcare programs designed to prepare you for a rewarding career. This college, located in Hattiesburg and comprised of four dedicated schools, not only offers an esteemed program in nursing but also in other areas like audiology, speech pathology, public health, athletic training, recreational therapy, and kinesiotherapy.

The college's mission is to deliver top-notch, interdisciplinary, evidence-based educational opportunities that gear you up to transform healthcare at all levels. This institution's vision is to stand out for its exemplary academic programs, interdisciplinary research, and high-quality graduates. With strategic goals to deliver quality academic programs, grow their presence, and enhance the quantity and quality of research and scholarship, this college is the perfect platform to jumpstart your RN to BSN journey.

About The University of Southern Mississippi's RN to BSN Program

The University of Southern Mississippi's RN to BSN Program is a fully online program made specifically for you, the working RN professional, to upgrade your healthcare knowledge and to add that crucial BSN to your credentials. With this program, you can keep your current job while you further your education.

A standout feature of this program is its flexibility, offering courses in 8 and 16-week intervals, allowing you to start the program during any session, fall, spring, or summer. You can choose to complete this BSN degree in only two semesters. Apart from that, it is specially designed to open up a wider range of opportunities in the medical field.

The program gives you the knowledge and skills to excel in pathophysiology, health assessment and promotion, patient safety, and healthcare systems, to name a few. Furthermore, various scholarship opportunities are available to help fund your education. Earning your BSN from The University of Southern Mississippi is not just about getting a degree, it's about ensuring a successful future in the realm of healthcare.

#3 in Mississippi

Delta State University

Robert E. Smith School of Nursing

  • Pin1
    1003 W Sunflower Road, Cleveland, MS - 38733
  • Tel1
    (662) 846-3000
  • Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
  • Award Levels: APRN Certificate, Bachelor, BSN to DNP, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate, RN to BSN
Person
Nurse Admin: Vicki Bingham, PhD, RN
Title: Dean

University Information

  • Faculty Total Faculty: 146
  • Tuition In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $1,500
  • Book Book and Supplies: N/A
  • Receiving Aid Percent Received Aid: 96%
  • Scholarship Average Grant or Scholarship: $6,946
  • Admitted Percent Admitted: 100%
  • Enrolled Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 37%
  • Graduation Rate Graduation Rate: 39%

Key RN to BSN Student Takeaways

  • Online Convenience: Complete your degree fully online, balancing work, other commitments, and studies.
  • Fast track Progression: Full-time students can complete the program in two semesters.
  • Flexible Scheduling: Enjoy the flexibility of full-time or part-time study options.
  • Scholarship Opportunities: Various scholarship opportunities make the program more affordable.
  • Nationally Ranked Program: Studying with a top-rated program boosts your credentials.

About Robert E. Smith School of Nursing

The Robert E. Smith School of Nursing welcomes you to explore a future in nursing. The faculty members are experts in various nursing specialties and are committed to delivering high-quality education. They leverage both hands-on clinical practice and simulation to teach nursing concepts applicable to diverse individuals and populations.

This school not just offers the opportunity to become a nurse but also provides a pathway for nurses who wish to advance their careers. Their vision is to transform healthcare in the Mississippi Delta and beyond, one exceptional nurse at a time. They uphold a robust mission to prepare nurses to be leaders at the baccalaureate, master, and doctoral levels through excellent education, evidence-based research, interprofessional practice, and multidimensional partnerships.

The school's strategic goals include maintaining high-quality curricula, increasing enrollment and graduation rates, building community support, and expanding outreach initiatives. With its strategic location in Mississippi and its dedication to excellence, this school is a promising choice for aspiring nursing students.

About Robert E. Smith School of Nursing's RN to BSN Program

The Robert E. Smith School of Nursing's RN to BSN Program is a fully online program designed for registered nurses holding an associate's degree or diploma. This program empowers you to grow professionally by not only broadening your knowledge and skills in nursing but also preparing you for leadership roles or pursuit of education beyond the baccalaureate level.

Designed with clinical experiences in your geographical location, this program accommodates your work schedule, whether full-time or part-time, to earn your BSN degree. The full-time course can be completed in two semesters, and the part-time course takes four semesters.

The program goals are designed to reinforce your skills and confidence to deal with real-world situations and meet the demands of healthcare agencies. The learning outcomes are designed to ensure you meet professional standards of nursing care.

Moreover, Robert E. Smith School of Nursing's RN to BSN program is more affordable than many similar programs. The school offers numerous scholarships to make the program even more accessible. In essence, earning your BSN from this program equips you to make a significant impact in the healthcare field.

#4 in Mississippi

William Carey University

Joseph and Nancy Fail School of Nursing

  • Pin1
    710 William Carey Parkway, Hattiesburg, MS - 39401
  • Tel1
    (601) 318-6051
  • Programs: Registered Nursing
  • Award Levels: Bachelor, Doctor of Nursing, MSN, RN to BSN
Person
Nurse Admin: Alicia Newell, PhD, RN, CNE
Title: Dean, Associate Professor

University Information

  • Faculty Total Faculty: 211
  • Tuition In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $1,900
  • Book Book and Supplies: N/A
  • Receiving Aid Percent Received Aid: 97%
  • Scholarship Average Grant or Scholarship: $8,467
  • Admitted Percent Admitted: 55%
  • Enrolled Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 48%
  • Graduation Rate Graduation Rate: N/A

H2 - About William Carey University's Nursing School

At the heart of William Carey University's School of Nursing is a commitment to high-quality nursing education embedded with Christian principles. Here, you'll find a nurturing environment that encourages evidence-based, culturally sensitive care. Their robust pre-licensure baccalaureate-nursing curriculum and post-licensure RN-BSN program cater to diverse learner needs while enhancing their nursing competency. They prioritize the preparation of nurse generalists who can transition smoothly into practice and advanced studies.

Proudly, their graduates consistently perform well on national licensure exams, earn high regard from employers, and significantly hold management positions in healthcare. They also offer progressive master's and doctoral programs, equipping students for leadership roles in varied healthcare settings. Whether you are a nursing novice or a professional seeking advancement, William Carey University holds a suitable program for you.

H2 - About William Carey University's RN to BSN Program

The online RN to BSN program at William Carey University is a carefully crafted program to take your nursing career to the next level. You can complete your studies in four to six trimesters, all online.

This program keeps you abreast of the ever-evolving healthcare landscape, equipping you with the knowledge needed to make evidence-based clinical and operational decisions. It enables you to analyze health policy impacts and use technology to improve patient and system outcomes. You can fulfill the program requirements alongside your work commitments and even complete the clinical components in your local area.

William Carey University's RN to BSN program is affordable, offering competitive tuition rates, free textbooks, and no out-of-state tuition. They offer financial assistance options like scholarships, grants, and loans, ensuring you have access to quality education irrespective of your financial standing.

H3 - Key RN to BSN Student Takeaways

  • Christian-based Learning Environment: The university's Christian principles offer a unique, ethical perspective to your nursing education.
  • Strong Reputation: The school's graduates consistently excel in national licensure exams and are highly valued in the healthcare fields.
  • Flexible and Convenient: The program's 100% online format allows for flexibility in balancing your studies and professional responsibilities.
  • Built for Success: The program prepares you for evidence-based practice, leadership roles, and lifelong learning in a diverse global society.
  • Affordability: Low tuition rates, free textbooks, no out-of-state fees, and a range of financial assistance options make this program financially achievable.
  • Career Prospects: Earning your BSN can open the doors to advanced nursing roles and higher salaries.

#5 in Mississippi

University of Mississippi Medical Center

School of Nursing

  • Pin1
    2500 N State St, Jackson, MS - 39216-4505
  • Tel1
    6019841000
  • Programs: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
  • Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, APRN Certificate, Bachelor, BSN to DNP, Doctor of Nursing, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate, RN to BSN, RN to MSN
Person
Nurse Admin: Tina Martin, PhD, RN, FNP-BC
Title: Interim Dean

University Information

  • Faculty Total Faculty:
  • Tuition In-State Undergraduate Tuition: N/A
  • Book Book and Supplies: N/A
  • Receiving Aid Percent Received Aid: N/A
  • Scholarship Average Grant or Scholarship: N/A
  • Admitted Percent Admitted: N/A
  • Enrolled Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
  • Graduation Rate Graduation Rate: N/A

Key RN to BSN Student Takeaways

  • Reputation and Accreditation: The school boasts a top-tier national ranking and all programs are fully accredited, offering you a recognized and respected degree.
  • Flexible Learning: The RN-BSN program is designed to accommodate your busy schedule, allowing you to balance work, studies, and family life.
  • Enhanced Clinical Experience: Access to four specialized on-campus hospitals for unique clinical experiences sets the school apart.
  • Global Recognition: Affiliation with the prestigious Cochrane US organization, signifying their commitment to evidence-based practice.
  • Career Advancement: The RN-BSN program prepares you for a broader scope of practice, opening doors for advanced roles in nursing.
  • Community Outreach: SON-managed clinics across the state offer practice and research opportunities, contributing to community health.
  • Holistic Development: The program's core values foster ethical, compassionate, and competent nurses.

About University of Mississippi School of Nursing

The University of Mississippi School of Nursing, founded in 1948, has a track record of excellence bolstered by a legacy of nurturing high-quality nurses. As noted by U.S. News & World Report, it ranks among the best for online Grad Nursing Programs, accentuating its commitment to delivering top-tier education. With a core ethos revolving around Respect, Excellence, Accountability, Diversity, and Integrity, the school creates innovative partnerships, fosters community-based systems, promotes evidence-based practice and research, and thrives on lifelong learning. The on-campus specialized hospitals provide unique clinical experiences, further enriching their well-rounded curriculum.

The School of Nursing has marked its global footprint by affiliating with the prestigious Cochrane US organization, underscoring its commitment to evidence-based practice. Its Bachelor, Masters, and Doctoral programs are all accredited, ensuring that the quality of education aligns with the highest standards.

The RN to BSN program follows this tradition, providing a robust curriculum specifically designed for ADN/ASN nurses. It’s a perfect embodiment of what the University of Mississippi School of Nursing stands for - a beacon of excellence in nursing education.

About University of Mississippi's RN to BSN Program

The RN-BSN program at the University of Mississippi accommodates the busy lives of working nurses, offering an innovative, flexible program that caters to your scheduling needs. The curriculum is designed to be immersive yet manageable, enabling you to balance your work, family, and studies.

The RN-BSN program thrusts you into a learning environment that fosters knowledge integration from various disciplines into professional nursing practice. You’ll learn about organizational leadership, quality improvement, and patient safety, all aimed at improving patient outcomes. All these skills are vital for success in the ever-evolving healthcare landscape.

This program is committed to nurturing leaders in nursing, providing a platform for you to augment your academic and professional trajectory while still attending to your work and family responsibilities.

#6 in Mississippi

Mississippi College

School of Nursing

  • Pin1
    200 South Capitol Street, Clinton, MS - 39058
  • Tel1
    (601) 925-3000
  • Programs: Registered Nursing
  • Award Levels: Bachelor, RN to BSN
Person
Nurse Admin: Kimberly J. Sharp, PhD, RN
Title: Dean

University Information

  • Faculty Total Faculty: 200
  • Tuition In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $1,500
  • Book Book and Supplies: N/A
  • Receiving Aid Percent Received Aid: 100%
  • Scholarship Average Grant or Scholarship: $13,820
  • Admitted Percent Admitted: 29%
  • Enrolled Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 57%
  • Graduation Rate Graduation Rate: 65%

Key RN to BSN Student Takeaways

  • Excellence in Education: With an impressive NCLEX pass rate of 96%, MCSON sets a high standard for nursing education.
  • High Employability: Most graduates secure full-time employment in nursing within a year, demonstrating the program's practical relevance.
  • Mission-Driven: The program's strong alignment with Christian values equips you to provide compassionate, client-centered care.
  • Flexible Learning: Online RN-BSN programming with six intakes per year accommodates your busy schedule.
  • Accredited Programs: Accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education ensures a high-quality education that meets stringent standards.
  • Faculty Expertise: With faculty holding graduate and/or postgraduate degrees and active engagement in scholarly activities, you gain from a rich pool of knowledge and experience.
  • Affordability: With competitive tuition rates and potential financial aid, this program is a cost-effective choice for your professional growth.

About Mississippi College School of Nursing

The Mississippi College School of Nursing (MCSON) upholds a commitment to excellence in nursing education. With a core mission of preparing healthcare professionals to demonstrate Christian values and apply informed clinical judgments, it stands out as a faith-oriented institution. Curricula built on respect and accountability, coupled with the integration of evidence-based practice, underline the school's commitment to delivering value-oriented education.

MCSON's exceptional NCLEX pass rate of 96% in 2021 demonstrates the effective academic curriculum that prepares you for success. Furthermore, the accreditation of its degree programs by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education assures you of the high-quality training you'll receive.

Remarkably, 95 to 100% of MCSON's graduates secure full-time nursing employment within one year, speaking volumes about the real-world relevance of its curriculum. If you're seeking a nursing school that combines academic excellence, faith-based learning, and practical outcomes, Mississippi College School of Nursing is an exceptional choice.

About Mississippi College's RN to BSN Program

The RN to BSN program at Mississippi College is meticulously designed to foster compassionate and knowledgeable nurse leaders who will spearhead healthcare transformation. This 100% online, CCNE-accredited program, created specifically for working RNs, offers flexibility, affordability, and convenience.

Through faith-based curricula and globally-engaged courses, the program equips you with necessary competencies to advance your nursing practice. In as few as 12 months, you can complete your degree requirements and broaden your career options in various healthcare settings.

In this program, you'll learn to incorporate clinical reasoning, integrate knowledge with evidence-based practice, effectively use technology and informatics, apply management and leadership concepts, and utilize communication techniques. This comprehensive training prepares you for a rewarding career as a nurse generalist, ready to deliver safe, patient-centered care across diverse settings.

See our Ranking Methodology

Rn To Bsn Programs In Mississippi
RN to BSN Programs in Mississippi

Admissions Requirements RN to BSN Programs

To enroll in RN to BSN programs in Mississippi, students must meet specific admission requirements. These prerequisites vary between institutions but generally include a set of common criteria. It’s essential to gather the necessary information ahead of time, as some documentation may take a while to obtain. Below is a list of typical admission requirements for Iowa RN to BSN programs:

  • Active RN License: Prospective students must hold a current, unencumbered Registered Nurse license in Mississippi or a compact state. Mississippi Board of Nursing provides more information about licensure.
  • Nursing Diploma or Associate Degree: Applicants should have completed a nursing diploma or associate degree program from an accredited institution. The Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning can help verify program accreditation.
  • Minimum GPA: Most programs require a minimum cumulative GPA, usually around 2.5 or higher, in previous nursing coursework.
  • Official Transcripts: Students must submit official transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities.
  • Prerequisite Courses: Some programs may require completion of specific prerequisite courses before admission. These courses may include subjects such as microbiology, anatomy and physiology, and statistics.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Some institutions might request letters of recommendation from professional or academic sources who can attest to the applicant’s potential for success in the program.
  • Personal Statement or Essay: Programs may require applicants to submit a personal statement or essay detailing their professional goals and reasons for pursuing a BSN degree.

As an optional but crucial step, students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) early in the process to explore financial aid options available to them.

Classes & Courses for RN to BSN Programs

RN to BSN programs in Mississippi prepare nurses for career advancement by offering a comprehensive curriculum that builds on existing knowledge and skills. The following list highlights 10 typical courses found in these programs, along with a brief description of what students can expect to learn in each course:

  • Health Assessment: This course covers techniques and strategies for conducting comprehensive health assessments, including history-taking, physical examination, and documentation.
  • Pathophysiology: Students explore the underlying mechanisms of disease processes and their impact on the human body, enhancing their understanding of illness and injury.
  • Pharmacology: This course focuses on the principles of pharmacology, drug classifications, and their therapeutic uses in patient care.
  • Nursing Research: Students learn the basics of nursing research methods, data analysis, and evidence-based practice to improve patient outcomes.
  • Community Health Nursing: This course examines the role of nurses in promoting health and preventing disease within diverse populations and communities.
  • Leadership and Management in Nursing: Students develop leadership skills, explore management theories, and learn strategies for effective decision-making in healthcare settings.
  • Nursing Informatics: This course introduces students to the use of information technology in healthcare, including electronic health records, data management, and communication tools.
  • Nursing Ethics: Students explore ethical principles, dilemmas, and decision-making processes in nursing practice, with an emphasis on patient advocacy and professional responsibility.
  • Health Promotion and Disease Prevention: This course focuses on health promotion strategies and disease prevention interventions for individuals, families, and communities.
  • Capstone Project: In this culminating course, students apply their knowledge and skills to a real-world nursing issue or problem through a research project or practice-based initiative.

One example of a Mississippi school offering an RN to BSN program is the University of Mississippi Medical Center. This institution provides a flexible, online curriculum designed to meet the needs of working nurses seeking career advancement.

Timeline for Online RN to BSN Programs

RN to BSN programs in Mississippi offer flexibility and convenience for working nurses seeking to advance their careers. The admission process, program length, and time to completion vary between institutions but typically follow a similar structure:

Admission Process and Timeline:

  • Application Submission: Prospective students should submit their application, along with all required documentation, by the specified deadline. Deadlines may differ between schools and can be found on each institution’s website.
  • Admission Decision: Institutions review applications and notify applicants of their decision within a few weeks after the submission deadline. Accepted students will receive information about registration and program orientation.
  • Program Start Date: RN to BSN programs in Mississippi often have multiple start dates throughout the year, allowing students to begin their studies at a time that best suits their schedule.

Program Length and Time to Completion:

  • Program Length: Most online RN to BSN programs in Mississippi can be completed in 12 to 24 months, depending on the number of credits required and the student’s enrollment status.
  • Part-time vs. Full-time Enrollment: Students may choose between part-time or full-time enrollment, depending on their personal and professional commitments. Part-time students generally take longer to complete the program compared to their full-time counterparts.
  • Transfer Credits: Some institutions may accept transfer credits from previous nursing coursework or other relevant courses, potentially reducing the time to completion.

Overall, RN to BSN programs in Mississippi are designed to accommodate the needs of working nurses by offering flexibility in both admission processes and program completion timelines. This approach enables students to balance their education with personal and professional responsibilities while pursuing career advancement opportunities.

Scholarships for RN to BSN Programs in Mississippi

Mississippi Registered Nurses pursuing an RN to BSN degree have access to various scholarships that can help ease the financial burden of their education. The following list highlights 10 RN to BSN scholarships available to Mississippi nurses, along with their deadline month and award amount:

In addition to these scholarships, it is crucial for students to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) early in the process. This step is essential for exploring all available financial aid opportunities, including private and public scholarships. By submitting the FAFSA, students ensure they are considered for federal grants, work-study programs, and low-interest student loans.

Salary Increases for BSN Degree Earners

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

How to Pay for an RN to BSN

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

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

Status for 80 Percent BSN Initiative in Mississippi

The state of Mississippi recognizes the importance of highly educated nurses to improve patient outcomes and meet the growing demand for healthcare professionals. The push for 80 percent of nurses to hold a BSN degree by 2020, as recommended by the Institute of Medicine (IOM), has encouraged many institutions to offer RN to BSN programs in Mississippi. These programs aim to bridge the gap between associate and bachelor’s degrees, equipping nurses with advanced skills and knowledge needed for leadership roles and specialized positions.

Several resources are available for Mississippi nurses seeking information on RN to BSN programs and related topics:

With a variety of RN to BSN programs in Mississippi and numerous resources available, nurses in the state are well-positioned to achieve the goal of 80 percent BSN-prepared nurses, ultimately enhancing patient care and elevating the nursing profession.

10 Benefits of Earning an RN to BSN

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

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

More RN to BSN Programs in Mississippi

University Offered asCity/State
Delta State University Campus, Hybrid, OnlineCleveland, MS
University of Mississippi Medical Center Campus, Hybrid, OnlineJackson, MS
Mississippi University for Women Campus, Hybrid, OnlineColumbus, MS
Mississippi College Campus, OnlineClinton, MS
University of Southern Mississippi Campus, Hybrid, OnlineHattiesburg, MS
William Carey University Campus, OnlineHattiesburg, MS

RN to BSN Resources for Nurses in Mississippi

For nurses pursuing RN to BSN programs in Mississippi, there are several resources available to provide information, support, and guidance throughout their educational journey. The following list includes organizations and resources specifically tailored to RN to BSN nurses in Mississippi:

These resources serve as valuable tools for RN to BSN students in Mississippi, ensuring they have the necessary information and support to succeed in their educational pursuits and advance their nursing careers.

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.

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