RN-to-BSN

Western's nationally accredited RN-to-BSN program is a degree completion program for registered 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.