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If you are interested in a nursing career, there are several different types of nursing degrees you can pursue. Alvernia University’s John and Karen Arnold School of Nursing offers a range of nursing degree programs for students seeking rewarding roles in healthcare. Rooted in service, compassion, and holistic care values, Alvernia emphasizes ethical leadership, community engagement, and rigorous academic training. The programs, which include an online RN to BSN completion program, a traditional BSN program, and an MSN program with specialized tracks, provide the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to thrive in many healthcare settings.
1. RN to BSN Completion Program
An RN (Registered Nurse) is a licensed professional who has passed the NCLEX-RN exam, which can be achieved through an ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) or a BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing). A BSN, however, is a four-year degree that provides a more comprehensive education than an ADN, including advanced topics like leadership and public health. While both ADN and BSN graduates can become RNs, a BSN typically offers more opportunities for career advancement, leadership roles, and higher earning potential and is preferred by many healthcare employers.
The RN to BSN Completion Program caters to registered nurses looking for an efficient way to advance their careers. With the flexibility to study at your own pace, the program allows RNs to transfer up to 90 credits, completing the remaining 33 credits at Alvernia. The curriculum includes upper-level nursing courses, liberal arts, and electives to enhance professional leadership and nursing practice skills. The program offers rolling admissions and personalized online support, making it ideal for working professionals.
2. Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Alvernia’s 4-year BSN program combines rigorous academic coursework with extensive hands-on clinical training, allowing students to apply what they learn in real-world healthcare settings. The curriculum covers core topics such as:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Pharmacology
- Nursing Research
- Health Assessment
- Nursing Ethics
- Community and Public Health Nursing
Students complete clinical rotations in medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, mental health, and obstetrics, gaining direct experience in patient care. These rotations provide exposure to different patient populations and healthcare settings, ensuring students develop a well-rounded skill set.
3. Master of Science in Nursing
The MSN degree program prepares nurses for advanced roles in healthcare. Alvernia emphasizes interprofessional collaboration, cultural competence, and ethical leadership. With comprehensive support from experienced faculty and two track options, students are guided toward their career goals in an average of 3 years.
- Nursing Education Track: This track prepares nurses to teach in classroom, clinical, and simulation lab settings, focusing on curriculum development, instructional strategies, and educational technology.
- Leadership and Healthcare Administration: In this track, students learn to become effective leaders in healthcare settings, developing skills in budgeting, human resources management, and strategic planning to improve healthcare outcomes and promote staff wellbeing.
Earning an MSN allows nurses to advance their career into specialized roles like nurse practitioner, nurse educator, or healthcare administrator. The degree also offers increased earning potential, leadership opportunities, and greater autonomy in patient care.
Serving the Underserved with Alvernia
From the flexible RN to BSN completion program to the in-depth BSN and specialized MSN tracks, Alvernia University’s different nursing degree programs support professional growth and prepare graduates for meaningful careers. To learn more about what degree path might be best for you, please visit https://www.alvernia.edu/john-and-karen-school-nursing.
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