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For many registered nurses (RNs) who hold an associate degree or diploma in nursing, earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a key step toward expanding their clinical knowledge, enhancing their job opportunities, and meeting the growing demands of the healthcare field. Alvernia University’s Online RN to BSN Degree Completion Program offers nurses a flexible, convenient pathway to advance their education and career without stepping away from their jobs.
Why Earn Your BSN?
While becoming an RN is a major accomplishment, healthcare employers increasingly prefer or require nurses to hold a BSN. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), BSN-prepared nurses are linked to lower patient mortality rates, fewer medication errors, and better overall patient outcomes.
The Institute of Medicine’s Future of Nursing report set a national goal for 80% of the nursing workforce to hold a BSN by 2020. While that benchmark hasn't yet been met, progress continues, with 73% of registered nurses holding a bachelor’s degree or higher as of 2024. This push toward higher education continues to influence hiring practices and healthcare policies nationwide.
In addition to increasing job opportunities, a BSN also lays the foundation for future graduate studies, leadership roles, and specialized certifications. Many healthcare systems now limit advancement or magnet-status employment to BSN-prepared nurses, making the degree essential for long-term career growth.
A Program Designed for Busy RNs
Delivered entirely online, Alvernia’s RN to BSN program allows RN students to balance their studies with personal and professional responsibilities. Whether working full-time in a hospital, managing shifts in long-term care, or transitioning between specialties, students can complete coursework on their own schedule and at their own pace.
The curriculum emphasizes both clinical excellence and holistic, patient-centered care, including core courses in:
- Health Assessment for RNs
- Community and Population-Based Health
- Nursing Informatics
- Leadership and Management in Nursing
- Evidence-Based Practice and Research
With a strong focus on evidence-based care, ethical decision-making, and culturally competent practice, graduates are well-equipped to provide high-quality care in any healthcare setting.
Why Alvernia?
Ranked among the top third of nursing programs in Pennsylvania, Alvernia University is known for our strong values-based education, supportive faculty, and student-centered approach. The RN to BSN program is no exception. Students benefit from:
- Accredited coursework aligned with industry standards
- Experienced nursing faculty with clinical and academic expertise
- Small class sizes that foster collaboration and personalized feedback
- Interactive course materials, discussion boards, academic advising, and one-on-one faculty support
- Virtual office hours, online tutoring, and tech support
- A mission-driven education rooted in Franciscan values of compassion, service, and lifelong learning
With generous transfer credit for previous nursing education, you can build on what you've already accomplished. Many students complete the program in 12 to 24 months, depending on the number of transfer credits and their course load.
Take the Next Step in Your Nursing Career
If you're a registered nurse ready to advance your skills, expand your opportunities, and take on greater responsibility, earning your BSN is a smart investment. The Online RN to BSN Degree Completion Program at Alvernia University offers the flexibility, support, and academic excellence you need to reach your goals.
For more information, please contact the Graduate and Adult Education Admissions at 610-796-5187 or gradandadult@alvernia.edu or reach out directly to Linda Roy at linda.roy@alvernia.edu.
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