RN-to-BSN
Apply to the program for Fall 2025
Applications for the Fall 2025 cohort are now being accepted and will continue to be accepted through the end of June.
The program is holding a free virtual Information Session on Tuesday, February 25th, from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. on Zoom. Register for the event or email bsn.applications@wwu.edu for more information.
Western's nationally accredited RN-to-BSN program is a degree completion program for nurses to obtain their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). The full-time plan of study has 48 upper-division credits. It is designed to provide credit for all nursing credits completed in an Associate Degree pre-licensure program, as well as other credits that apply towards Western’s General University Requirements (GUR).
The RN-to-BSN program is specifically designed for nurses who have completed an Associate's or Diploma nursing program and have their RN license already or who will pass the NCLEX-RN exam by the end of their second quarter of study. It meets the AACN Essentials of Baccalaureate Education for Professional Nursing Practice.
The program — offered on the main Bellingham Campus — has a hybrid structure, with classes meeting face-to-face during some weeks and online during others. Classes occur on the same day each week either Tuesdays or Thursdays for the entire program, in order to allow working nurses to balance their professional education along with ongoing work and personal responsibilities. Students learn new skills and concepts in the classroom and then apply that knowledge through a variety of Practice Experiences in the community. All practice experiences are arranged by program faculty. Students do not need to arrange their own practice experience hours.
The program may be taken either full-time in four quarters or part-time in eight quarters. Western’s program prepares nurses with enhanced professional competencies necessary for the increasing complexities of healthcare. Graduates of the program may also go on to successfully earn graduate and advanced practice degrees. The program has been guided by national and state standards for nursing as well as by Western’s mission and vision.

Program Accreditation
The RN-to-BSN Program at Western Washington University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (http://www.ccneaccreditation.org).
The RN-to-BSN Program holds full approval from the Washington State Board of Nursing (WA BON).
Contact Us
Rika Winquist, Nursing Program Coordinator
Rika.Winquist@wwu.edu
(360) 650-6777