The RN-BSN Program is designed for registered nurses who are graduates of diploma or associate degree nursing programs. The RN student is recognized as an adult learner who brings professional skills and personal goals to the educational setting. 

The purpose of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program is to offer a dimension of learning for the student in a Christian-oriented environment. With an associate degree or diploma preparation as a foundation, Alvernia's BSN graduate is prepared to deliver health care to persons of all ages, families and community groups with sensitivity to cultural and environmental factors.

Admission Requirements:
Admission to the RN-BSN Program is determined on an individual basis. The total number of students admitted to the program is based upon available facilities and faculty.

• Submit a completed Alvernia College Graduate & Continuing Studies Application Form
• Submit official transcript of high school grades or GED scores.
• Submit official transcript(s) of college and/or diploma school.
• Provide a photocopy of a current Pennsylvania Registered Nurse License.
• Provide a photocopy of a current malpractice insurance policy.

Please note that for the RN-BSN Completion Program, SAT scores and NLN competency exams are NOT required. Those applicants who begin RN-BSN courses while awaiting NCLEX-RN results may take non-clinical courses only.

Tuition
Tuition deferment may be available.

Program of Study (123 credits)
The RN-BSN courses are predominantly designed to be non-sequential. Lower level science and liberal arts courses may be transferred to Alvernia from your basic entry-level program. Each RN student will be personally advised on what applies to Alvernia College's graduation requirements.

The RN is awarded 67-70 credits for a diploma or associate degree. RNs must earn an additional 53-56 credits to receive a Baccalaurate degree. Most RNs can complete the BSN within 2 years.

Lower Level Requirements (67-70 credits)
(ADN or Diploma)
Composition & Research
Physical and Biological Sciences
Social Sciences
Nursing Courses

Upper Level Core Requirements (25 credits)

Upper Level Nursing Courses (31 credits)

Additional Academic Progression Policies

• 45 of the last 60 credits must be taken at Alvernia College
• Minimum of 30 credits at the 300/400 level
• Community service, human diversity, and computer proficiency requirements met in major
• Both theoretical and clinical components of the professional nursing courses must be satisfactorily completed
• A grade of "C+" or better in all nursing courses in required to progress through the RN-BSN Program
• Nursing and liberal arts courses may be challenged by the College Level Examination Program (CLEP), Excelsior College Exams, and/or life experience.
• Maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0
• Policies found in the Alvernia College Catalog, Student Handbok, and Nursing Department RN-BSN Program Student Handbook must be adhered to
• A criminal record check and child abuse history clearance must be completed prior to entering a clinical course
• A Self Report Health Form must be completed prior to entering a clinical course

Credentials:

The Alvernia College RN-BSN Completion Program is approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

The Alvernia College Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Accreditation is an indication of public approbation, attesting to the quality of the educational program and the continued commitment of the sponsoring institution to support the program. For further information about the accreditation of the BSN Program, please contact the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education at the following address:

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
One Dupont Circle, NW, Suite 530
Washington, DC 20036-1120

Graduates of the RN-BSN Program are expected to perform according to the American Nurses Association (ANA) Standards of Practice, The Essentials of Baccalaureate Education for Professional Nursing Practice, The ANA Code of Ethics, and the Pennsylvania Nurse Practice Act.

Updated: August 11, 2006

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