Resource Articles
Online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)
Request InformationMove ahead in your career and make a bigger impact in the community you serve.
Next start dates
- Course-Based Courses with a set schedule May 31, 2021
- Tempo Competency-Based Learning Go at your own pace May 03, 2021
Accreditations
CCNE Accredited
Transfer Credits
- Up to 135 Credits
Choose an accredited online RN-BSN program.
You touch patients’ lives every day with your care and compassion. Continue your journey to nursing excellence with Walden’s Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)-accredited RN to BSN online completion program. A BSN degree prepares registered nurses with additional skills in leadership, community health, and health promotion as outlined in the Future of Nursing movement.1
Why Complete Your RN to BSN Online With Walden?
Accredited Program
Develop skills and credentials that set you apart with our CCNE-accredited program, aligned with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Essentials.
Immediately Apply Skills
Take nursing courses from day one and apply what you learn immediately on the job. Walden’s online BSN nursing degree program includes nursing courses as soon as you begin.
Exceptional Faculty
Benefit from practical coursework developed by leading healthcare experts and taught by faculty with real-world nursing expertise. 100% of classroom teaching faculty hold doctorates.2
Interactive Simulations
Gain practical experience and practice health assessment skills through Digital Clinical Experiences™ by Shadow Health—a realistic, interactive simulation.
Program Savings
Tempo Competency-Based Learning™: Receive up to a $1,000 grant if you reside in the U.S. and start this program on May 3, 2021. Contact one of our Enrollment Specialists to learn more.
Get Started NowLearning Path
Two Ways to Learn
Choose from two degree completion options that are both designed for working nurses.
The course-based format may be a good option for you if you prefer an instructor-led approach and learning on a predetermined schedule.
Tempo Competency-Based Learning™ is an alternative way to earn your Walden degree. It’s different from our standard course-based learning because you can work at a pace that makes sense for you, and progress once you’ve shown you understand a subject. With Tempo Learning®, you have the flexibility of online learning, plus the ability to personalize and control the length, cost, and pacing of your program.
Choose the learning path that fits your life and experience. Here are the two ways to earn your degree:
| Course-based learning |
tempo competency-based learning |
|
|---|---|---|
| The standard, guided pace to earn your degree |
The flexible pace, ideal for some students |
|
| Time | Structured schedule |
Flexible schedule |
| Pace | Deadlines to make steady progress |
Set your own pace, and speed up or slow down when needed |
| Tuition | Pay by the course |
All-you-can-learn subscription fee |
| Support | Faculty guide you through your courses as you earn your degree |
Faculty support when you need it and a personal academic coach |
| Expert Walden Faculty |
✔ |
✔ |
| Payment Plans and Scholarships* |
✔ |
✔ |
*May not be available for all programs
Accelerate Into Master’s (AIM)
Earn up to 15 master’s-level credit hours by taking graduate-level courses as an undergraduate. This allows you to complete both degrees in less time than earning each degree separately. Learn more about Accelerate Into Master’s (AIM).
-
Curriculum
Degree Completion Requirements
- 181 quarter credits
- General education courses (50 cr.)
- Core courses (51 cr.)
- Prior nursing credit/elective courses (80 cr.)
Nurses admitted to the program may be awarded up to 50 quarter credits for meeting competencies required to achieve the nursing license through either a diploma program or an associate degree program. Transcripts and diploma information will be evaluated to determine the extent of credit awarded.
This sequence represents the minimum time to completion. Time to completion will vary by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 855-646-5286.
Courses
Course Code Title Credits CORE COURSES
NURS 3100 Issues and Trends in Nursing
In this course, students are provided with an overview of the evolution of nursing as a profession and introduced to their new role as scholar-practitioners. They examine changes in the U.S. healthcare delivery system, the importance of information technology, and measures that promote quality, safety, and better health outcomes in patient care. Students consider major issues and trends in contemporary nursing and healthcare practice, including the influence of socioeconomic, ethical, legal, and political variables and professional values. Through weekly discussions and assignments, students explore and share personal experiences in the context of contemporary nursing issues, such as the nursing shortage, workforce challenges, healthcare financing, professional organizations, and diversity. They are challenged to examine and propose solutions to these nursing issues in addition to those in their workplace. Students reflect on Walden's mission of social change and its impact on their future nursing practice as a scholar-practitioner. Because this is the first nursing course within the RN/BSN program, students learn to use Walden University's resources to enhance writing skills. Students are also introduced to the tools essential to success at Walden.
(6 cr.) NURS 3020 Health Assessment
Through this course, students have the opportunity to gain the knowledge and skills required to collect data related to assessment of individual health status. They learn the physical examination skills of inspection, palpation, percussion, and auscultation used to assess major body systems across the lifespan. They gain practical experience using interviewing techniques and communication skills for taking patient histories, and they discuss the psychological, social, and cultural aspects of clinical assessment. Additionally, students consider the integration of data to guide the nursing process and ethical guidelines. Engaging in interactive simulations, students apply knowledge and demonstrate understanding of conducting health assessments.
(5 cr.) NURS 3110 Information Management and Patient Care Technology
Nursing informatics supports nursing practice in education, administration, research, patient safety, quality outcomes, core standards, and nurse-sensitive outcomes. In this course, students emphasize the meaningful use of information technology in the delivery of nursing services, including the collection, storage, retrieval, and communication of data; information system safeguards; ethical and legal issues; and information management to promote patient safety and quality of care.
(5 cr.) NURS 3150 Foundations of Nursing Research
Nurses must understand research in order to effectively participate in the provision of evidence-based nursing care. Students in this course learn the foundational elements of the research process, refine information literacy skills, and develop an understanding of ethical research. Students investigate each step of the research process and complete a critical examination of quantitative and qualitative research relevant to their nursing practice. Students are given the tools to analyze nurse-sensitive indicators and clinical practice guidelines. (Prerequisite(s): RN-BSN Track students: STAT 3001 or PSYC 3002; RN-BSN-AIM Track students: STAT 3001 or PSYC 3002; cannot be taken with NURS 5052.)
(5 cr.) NURS 4100 Quality and Safety Through Evidence-Based Practice
Nurses are expected to engage in evidence-based practice. As scholar-practitioners, students in this course learn to use evidence in clinical decision making to promote a safe healthcare environment. Students apply course concepts as they identify a current problem in nursing practice and synthesize and evaluate literature, as well as identify changes in practice. Students analyze clinical guidelines and nurse-sensitive indicators in establishing quality and safety initiatives. Students utilize quality improvement models in promoting changes in practice. (Prerequisite(s): NURS 3150.)
(5 cr.) NURS 4105 Advocacy Through Healthcare Policy
Effective nurse advocacy is essential to the improvement of health in the United States. In this course, students learn about the power of advocacy through politics, policy, and professional associations. Students gain an understanding of how current issues, systems, policies, and related contexts impact advocacy. They engage in a system-level analysis of healthcare policy issues of access, equity, affordability, and social justice. Students perform healthcare policy analysis by applying research as well as legislative, regulatory, and financial processes in order to positively impact the quality and safety of nursing practice in the healthcare system. Through this course, students gain the knowledge and skills needed to be empowered to advocate for vulnerable populations and promote social justice and positive social change.
(5 cr.) NURS 4115 Role of the Nurse—Public and Global Health
Students in this course will widen their perspectives related to promoting health and preventing disease as they examine health issues that transcend national borders, class, race, ethnicity, and culture. Students evaluate the role of the nurse in preserving and promoting health among diverse populations as well as the role in illness prevention and health promotion, protection, and maintenance of targeted populations. They also explore principles of epidemiology and the influencing sociopolitical factors that impact health and well-being of humankind. Students engage in assignments designed to provide practical application of content on topical issues, such as infant mortality rates in the United States and abroad, infectious or communicable disease, and implications of global climate change on health, among others. Finally, students consider and reflect on the nurse's role as a leader in promoting positive social change in transforming the health of populations in the world.
(5 cr.) NURS 4210 Role of the Nurse Leader in Population Health
Students in this course focus on application of theories and concepts from nursing and public health sciences in assessing health status, preventing and controlling disease, and promoting a healthier population by working with families, aggregates, communities, and healthcare systems. Students apply system thinking by using epidemiological and community assessment techniques to examine at-risk populations, health promotion, and levels of prevention with special emphasis on ethnically diverse and vulnerable populations. Major local, state, and national health issues are considered, including communicable disease, chronic illness, environmental and occupational health, bioterrorism, emergency and disaster preparedness and response. Practice experiences provide learning experiences in population-based health promotion by collaborating with interdisciplinary public health partners in a local community.(1 credit of practicum equates to 72 clock hours of student practice experience hours.) (Prerequisite(s): RN-BSN Track students: NURS 4100; RN-BSN-AIM Track students: NURS 5052.)
(5 cr.) NURS 4005 Topics in Clinical Nursing
Nurses play a critical role in the care of patients with major acute and chronic health problems. They are accountable for clinical outcomes and for promoting quality and safety in patient care through the use of information technology. Students in this course will examine their role in the evaluation of nurse-sensitive indicators, standards, and core measures to develop an evidence-based practice approach to care. Students explore the relationship of genetics and genomics to health and illness as well as infection-control issues. The nurse's role in palliative and end-of-life care and complementary and alternative therapies is also explored. Students apply course concepts and demonstrate an understanding of nursing interventions and agency policy to improve nursing practice.
(5 cr.) NURS 4220 Leadership Competencies in Nursing and Healthcare
Contemporary nurses who wish to influence the current healthcare system must equip themselves with the knowledge and competencies to lead in times of pressure, constant change, and innovation. Quality Improvement science provides a rich set of tools and techniques and has been adopted by most nursing leaders. Nurses are expected to lead with quality improvement knowledge and competencies. Students in this course work toward gaining these skills by focusing on real practice problems and developing evidence-based solutions. They also learn skills and techniques in team building; strengthening interpersonal, communication, and interdisciplinary collaboration; promoting meaningful use of data to gauge improvements and problem solving; translating day to day practice problems to long term strategy for organizational growth; and identify strategies to manage organizational change. Students apply course concepts through case studies. Through this practice experience, students gain professional knowledge from nursing leaders in practice the application of quality improvement science. (1 credit of practicum equates to 72 clock hours of student practice experience hours.) (Prerequisite(s): RN-BSN Track students: NURS 4100; RN-BSN-AIM Track students: NURS 5052.)
(5 cr.) VIEW ALL COURSES Tuition and Fees
Curriculum Component Requirements Cost Amount Tuition 51 required BSN course quarter credit hours $335 per quarter hour $17,085 Technology Fee Per quarter $160 $800
$17,885*
*Tuition reflects the minimum time to completion. Time to completion varies by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships or other tuition reductions. Walden may accept up to 5 transfer credits. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-768-0109.
The nursing courses in the RN-BSN program equal 51 quarter credits. Students will need a total of 181 credits to earn the BSN degree.
- 181 quarter credits
-
Curriculum
Degree Completion Requirements
- 181 quarter credits to earn your BSN
- General education courses (50 cr.)
- Core courses (51 cr.)
- Prior nursing credit/elective courses (80 cr.)
All students admitted to the RN to BSN AIM program must have a current, active nursing license and an associate degree or diploma in nursing. Nurses admitted to the program may be awarded up to 50 quarter credits for meeting competencies required to achieve the nursing license through either a diploma program or an associate degree program. Transcripts and diploma information will be evaluated to determine the extent of credit awarded.
This sequence represents the minimum time to completion. Time to completion will vary by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 855-646-5286.
Courses
Course Code Title Credits CORE COURSES
NURS 3100 Issues and Trends in Nursing
In this course, students are provided with an overview of the evolution of nursing as a profession and introduced to their new role as scholar-practitioners. They examine changes in the U.S. healthcare delivery system, the importance of information technology, and measures that promote quality, safety, and better health outcomes in patient care. Students consider major issues and trends in contemporary nursing and healthcare practice, including the influence of socioeconomic, ethical, legal, and political variables and professional values. Through weekly discussions and assignments, students explore and share personal experiences in the context of contemporary nursing issues, such as the nursing shortage, workforce challenges, healthcare financing, professional organizations, and diversity. They are challenged to examine and propose solutions to these nursing issues in addition to those in their workplace. Students reflect on Walden's mission of social change and its impact on their future nursing practice as a scholar-practitioner. Because this is the first nursing course within the RN/BSN program, students learn to use Walden University's resources to enhance writing skills. Students are also introduced to the tools essential to success at Walden.
(6 cr.) NURS 3020 Health Assessment
Through this course, students have the opportunity to gain the knowledge and skills required to collect data related to assessment of individual health status. They learn the physical examination skills of inspection, palpation, percussion, and auscultation used to assess major body systems across the lifespan. They gain practical experience using interviewing techniques and communication skills for taking patient histories, and they discuss the psychological, social, and cultural aspects of clinical assessment. Additionally, students consider the integration of data to guide the nursing process and ethical guidelines. Engaging in interactive simulations, students apply knowledge and demonstrate understanding of conducting health assessments.
(5 cr.) NURS 3150 Foundations of Nursing Research
Nurses must understand research in order to effectively participate in the provision of evidence-based nursing care. Students in this course learn the foundational elements of the research process, refine information literacy skills, and develop an understanding of ethical research. Students investigate each step of the research process and complete a critical examination of quantitative and qualitative research relevant to their nursing practice. Students are given the tools to analyze nurse-sensitive indicators and clinical practice guidelines. (Prerequisite(s): RN-BSN Track students: STAT 3001 or PSYC 3002; RN-BSN-AIM Track students: STAT 3001 or PSYC 3002; cannot be taken with NURS 5052.)
(5 cr.) NURS 4115 Role of the Nurse—Public and Global Health
Students in this course will widen their perspectives related to promoting health and preventing disease as they examine health issues that transcend national borders, class, race, ethnicity, and culture. Students evaluate the role of the nurse in preserving and promoting health among diverse populations as well as the role in illness prevention and health promotion, protection, and maintenance of targeted populations. They also explore principles of epidemiology and the influencing sociopolitical factors that impact health and well-being of humankind. Students engage in assignments designed to provide practical application of content on topical issues, such as infant mortality rates in the United States and abroad, infectious or communicable disease, and implications of global climate change on health, among others. Finally, students consider and reflect on the nurse's role as a leader in promoting positive social change in transforming the health of populations in the world.
(5 cr.) NURS 4005 Topics in Clinical Nursing
Nurses play a critical role in the care of patients with major acute and chronic health problems. They are accountable for clinical outcomes and for promoting quality and safety in patient care through the use of information technology. Students in this course will examine their role in the evaluation of nurse-sensitive indicators, standards, and core measures to develop an evidence-based practice approach to care. Students explore the relationship of genetics and genomics to health and illness as well as infection-control issues. The nurse's role in palliative and end-of-life care and complementary and alternative therapies is also explored. Students apply course concepts and demonstrate an understanding of nursing interventions and agency policy to improve nursing practice.
(5 cr.) NURS 4210 Role of the Nurse Leader in Population Health
Students in this course focus on application of theories and concepts from nursing and public health sciences in assessing health status, preventing and controlling disease, and promoting a healthier population by working with families, aggregates, communities, and healthcare systems. Students apply system thinking by using epidemiological and community assessment techniques to examine at-risk populations, health promotion, and levels of prevention with special emphasis on ethnically diverse and vulnerable populations. Major local, state, and national health issues are considered, including communicable disease, chronic illness, environmental and occupational health, bioterrorism, emergency and disaster preparedness and response. Practice experiences provide learning experiences in population-based health promotion by collaborating with interdisciplinary public health partners in a local community.(1 credit of practicum equates to 72 clock hours of student practice experience hours.) (Prerequisite(s): RN-BSN Track students: NURS 4100; RN-BSN-AIM Track students: NURS 5052.)
(5 cr.) NURS 4220 Leadership Competencies in Nursing and Healthcare
Contemporary nurses who wish to influence the current healthcare system must equip themselves with the knowledge and competencies to lead in times of pressure, constant change, and innovation. Quality Improvement science provides a rich set of tools and techniques and has been adopted by most nursing leaders. Nurses are expected to lead with quality improvement knowledge and competencies. Students in this course work toward gaining these skills by focusing on real practice problems and developing evidence-based solutions. They also learn skills and techniques in team building; strengthening interpersonal, communication, and interdisciplinary collaboration; promoting meaningful use of data to gauge improvements and problem solving; translating day to day practice problems to long term strategy for organizational growth; and identify strategies to manage organizational change. Students apply course concepts through case studies. Through this practice experience, students gain professional knowledge from nursing leaders in practice the application of quality improvement science. (1 credit of practicum equates to 72 clock hours of student practice experience hours.) (Prerequisite(s): RN-BSN Track students: NURS 4100; RN-BSN-AIM Track students: NURS 5052.)
(5 cr.) Core Courses Transferable into any Walden MSN Specialization
NURS 5050 Policy and Advocacy for Improving Population Health
In today's rapidly changing healthcare delivery system, decisions made within the political arena impact the future of health delivery systems, healthcare professionals, and the populations they serve. In this course, students examine the policy process and its impact on healthcare delivery, cost, quality, and access. Students examine the importance of getting healthcare issues on federal and state agenda, investigate governmental response through legislation and regulation, and identify where they can advocate for positive outcomes in program/policy design, implementation, and evaluation. Global health issues are examined for their relevance and impact on the development of the nurse advocate. Through discussions, reflection, case studies, and the application of professional communications techniques as political tactics to influence policy outcomes, students demonstrate integration of policy decision-making into professional nurse practice for the benefit of individuals and populations.
(5 cr.) NURS 5051 Transforming Nursing and Healthcare Through Technology
Nursing informatics is essential to the provision of effective and efficient care. This course examines nursing informatics as a nursing competency and a nursing specialty. Students examine the role of the nurse informaticist in current practices related to the collection, access, and use of health information and knowledge, as well as the implementation of clinical systems. Through this course, students gain an understanding of how informatics is used to improve advanced nursing practice and healthcare outcomes across organizations, public health, and consumer health settings.
(5 cr.) NURS 5052 Essentials of Evidence-Based Practice
Nurses base practice on sound and tested evidence to ensure the safety, high quality, and cost-effectiveness of patient care. This course provides students the opportunity to gain a better understanding of evidence-based practice (EBP) and how it interacts and aligns with research and quality improvement. Students will examine how to use databases to discover evidence and how to apply their knowledge of research methodologies to critically appraise literature. They will also examine opportunities to strengthen their synthesis and integration skills to determine whether a change in practice is needed, based on a body of evidence. Through exploration of implementation, evaluation, and dissemination strategies, students will explore the intricacies of leading and mentoring change within an organization to enhance nursing practice. (Prerequisite(s): NURS 3150; cannot be taken with NURS 3150.)
(5 cr.) VIEW ALL COURSES Tuition and Fees
Curriculum Component Requirements Cost Amount Tuition 51 required BSN course quarter credit hours $335 per quarter hour $17,085 Technology Fee Per quarter $160 $800
$17,885*
*Tuition reflects the minimum time to completion. Time to completion varies by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships or other tuition reductions. Walden may accept up to 5 transfer credits. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-768-0109.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included and may cost up to an additional $2,500.
The nursing courses in the RN-BSN program equal 51 quarter credits. Students will need a total of 181 credits to earn the BSN degree.
- 181 quarter credits to earn your BSN
-
Curriculum
The Tempo Learning degree completion option is ideal for busy working professionals like you. Your progress is measured by the mastery or demonstration of skills, abilities, and knowledge in a particular area of expertise (AoE).
Each competency has been carefully designed by expert faculty with input from employers, with your education and future employment in mind.
Degree Completion Requirements
- 180 quarter credits
- General education courses (50 cr.)
- Core courses (50 cr.)
- Prior nursing credit/elective courses (80 cr.)
Nurses admitted to the program may be awarded up to 50 quarter credits for meeting competencies required to achieve the nursing license through either a diploma program or an associate degree program. Transcripts and diploma information will be evaluated to determine the extent of credit awarded.
This sequence represents the minimum time to completion. Time to completion will vary by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 855-646-5286.
Areas of Expertise and Competency Descriptions
Course Code Title Credits CORE COURSES
NURS 3100 Issues and Trends in Nursing
In this course, students are provided with an overview of the evolution of nursing as a profession and introduced to their new role as scholar-practitioners. They examine changes in the U.S. healthcare delivery system, the importance of information technology, and measures that promote quality, safety, and better health outcomes in patient care. Students consider major issues and trends in contemporary nursing and healthcare practice, including the influence of socioeconomic, ethical, legal, and political variables and professional values. Through weekly discussions and assignments, students explore and share personal experiences in the context of contemporary nursing issues, such as the nursing shortage, workforce challenges, healthcare financing, professional organizations, and diversity. They are challenged to examine and propose solutions to these nursing issues in addition to those in their workplace. Students reflect on Walden's mission of social change and its impact on their future nursing practice as a scholar-practitioner. Because this is the first nursing course within the RN/BSN program, students learn to use Walden University's resources to enhance writing skills. Students are also introduced to the tools essential to success at Walden.
(6 cr.) NURS 3020 Health Assessment
Through this course, students have the opportunity to gain the knowledge and skills required to collect data related to assessment of individual health status. They learn the physical examination skills of inspection, palpation, percussion, and auscultation used to assess major body systems across the lifespan. They gain practical experience using interviewing techniques and communication skills for taking patient histories, and they discuss the psychological, social, and cultural aspects of clinical assessment. Additionally, students consider the integration of data to guide the nursing process and ethical guidelines. Engaging in interactive simulations, students apply knowledge and demonstrate understanding of conducting health assessments.
(5 cr.) NURS 3110A Information Management and Patient Care Technology
Nursing informatics supports nursing practice in education, administration, research, patient safety, quality outcomes, core standards, and nurse-sensitive outcomes. In this course, students emphasize the meaningful use of information technology in the delivery of nursing services, including the collection, storage, retrieval, and communication of data; information system safeguards; ethical and legal issues; and information management to promote patient safety and quality of care.
(5 cr.) NURS 3150 Foundations of Nursing Research
Nurses must understand research in order to effectively participate in the provision of evidence-based nursing care. Students in this course learn the foundational elements of the research process, refine information literacy skills, and develop an understanding of ethical research. Students investigate each step of the research process and complete a critical examination of quantitative and qualitative research relevant to their nursing practice. Students are given the tools to analyze nurse-sensitive indicators and clinical practice guidelines. (Prerequisite(s): RN-BSN Track students: STAT 3001 or PSYC 3002; RN-BSN-AIM Track students: STAT 3001 or PSYC 3002; cannot be taken with NURS 5052.)
(5 cr.) NURS 4100 Quality and Safety Through Evidence-Based Practice
Nurses are expected to engage in evidence-based practice. As scholar-practitioners, students in this course learn to use evidence in clinical decision making to promote a safe healthcare environment. Students apply course concepts as they identify a current problem in nursing practice and synthesize and evaluate literature, as well as identify changes in practice. Students analyze clinical guidelines and nurse-sensitive indicators in establishing quality and safety initiatives. Students utilize quality improvement models in promoting changes in practice. (Prerequisite(s): NURS 3150.)
(5 cr.) NURS 4105 Advocacy Through Healthcare Policy
Effective nurse advocacy is essential to the improvement of health in the United States. In this course, students learn about the power of advocacy through politics, policy, and professional associations. Students gain an understanding of how current issues, systems, policies, and related contexts impact advocacy. They engage in a system-level analysis of healthcare policy issues of access, equity, affordability, and social justice. Students perform healthcare policy analysis by applying research as well as legislative, regulatory, and financial processes in order to positively impact the quality and safety of nursing practice in the healthcare system. Through this course, students gain the knowledge and skills needed to be empowered to advocate for vulnerable populations and promote social justice and positive social change.
(5 cr.) NURS 4115 Role of the Nurse—Public and Global Health
Students in this course will widen their perspectives related to promoting health and preventing disease as they examine health issues that transcend national borders, class, race, ethnicity, and culture. Students evaluate the role of the nurse in preserving and promoting health among diverse populations as well as the role in illness prevention and health promotion, protection, and maintenance of targeted populations. They also explore principles of epidemiology and the influencing sociopolitical factors that impact health and well-being of humankind. Students engage in assignments designed to provide practical application of content on topical issues, such as infant mortality rates in the United States and abroad, infectious or communicable disease, and implications of global climate change on health, among others. Finally, students consider and reflect on the nurse's role as a leader in promoting positive social change in transforming the health of populations in the world.
(5 cr.) NURS 4210 Role of the Nurse Leader in Population Health
Students in this course focus on application of theories and concepts from nursing and public health sciences in assessing health status, preventing and controlling disease, and promoting a healthier population by working with families, aggregates, communities, and healthcare systems. Students apply system thinking by using epidemiological and community assessment techniques to examine at-risk populations, health promotion, and levels of prevention with special emphasis on ethnically diverse and vulnerable populations. Major local, state, and national health issues are considered, including communicable disease, chronic illness, environmental and occupational health, bioterrorism, emergency and disaster preparedness and response. Practice experiences provide learning experiences in population-based health promotion by collaborating with interdisciplinary public health partners in a local community.(1 credit of practicum equates to 72 clock hours of student practice experience hours.) (Prerequisite(s): RN-BSN Track students: NURS 4100; RN-BSN-AIM Track students: NURS 5052.)
(5 cr.) NURS 4005 Topics in Clinical Nursing
Nurses play a critical role in the care of patients with major acute and chronic health problems. They are accountable for clinical outcomes and for promoting quality and safety in patient care through the use of information technology. Students in this course will examine their role in the evaluation of nurse-sensitive indicators, standards, and core measures to develop an evidence-based practice approach to care. Students explore the relationship of genetics and genomics to health and illness as well as infection-control issues. The nurse's role in palliative and end-of-life care and complementary and alternative therapies is also explored. Students apply course concepts and demonstrate an understanding of nursing interventions and agency policy to improve nursing practice.
(5 cr.) NURS 4220A Leadership Competencies in Nursing and Healthcare
Contemporary nurses who wish to influence the current healthcare system must equip themselves with the knowledge and competencies to lead in times of pressure, constant change, and innovation. Quality Improvement science provides a rich set of tools and techniques and has been adopted by most nursing leaders. Nurses are expected to lead with quality improvement knowledge and competencies. Students in this course work toward gaining these skills by focusing on real practice problems and developing evidence-based solutions. They also learn skills and techniques in team building; strengthening interpersonal, communication, and interdisciplinary collaboration; promoting meaningful use of data to gauge improvements and problem solving; translating day to day practice problems to long term strategy for organizational growth; and identify strategies to manage organizational change. Students apply course concepts through case studies. Through this practice experience, students gain professional knowledge from nursing leaders in practice the application of quality improvement science. (1 credit of practicum equates to 72 clock hours of student practice experience hours.) (Prerequisite(s): RN-BSN Track students: NURS 4100; RN-BSN-AIM Track students: NURS 5052.)
(5 cr.) VIEW ALL COURSES Tuition and Fees
Progress at Your Pace. Control Your Cost.
Walden’s Tempo Learning® programs follow a subscription-based pricing format. Students are billed a flat-rate for each three-month subscription term. All pricing is represented in U.S. dollars and is subject to change.
Program Subscription Period Tuition Subscription Period Technology Fee Subscription Period Time Frame Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-BSN) Completion Program $2,980 $75 3-month subscription period
Financial Aid
Financial aid is available for this program. Our financial aid advisors can help you identify funding opportunities to help you pay for your education.
- 180 quarter credits
-
Curriculum
Degree Completion Requirements
- 180 quarter credits
- General education courses (50 cr.)
- Core courses (50 cr.)
- Prior nursing credit/elective courses (80 cr.)
All students admitted to the RN to BSN AIM program must have a current, active nursing license and an associate degree or diploma in nursing. Nurses admitted to the program may be awarded up to 50 quarter credits for meeting competencies required to achieve the nursing license through either a diploma program or an associate degree program. Transcripts and diploma information will be evaluated to determine the extent of credit awarded.
This sequence represents the minimum time to completion. Time to completion will vary by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 855-646-5286.
Areas of Expertise and Competency Descriptions
Course Code Title Credits CORE COURSES
NURS 3100 Issues and Trends in Nursing
In this course, students are provided with an overview of the evolution of nursing as a profession and introduced to their new role as scholar-practitioners. They examine changes in the U.S. healthcare delivery system, the importance of information technology, and measures that promote quality, safety, and better health outcomes in patient care. Students consider major issues and trends in contemporary nursing and healthcare practice, including the influence of socioeconomic, ethical, legal, and political variables and professional values. Through weekly discussions and assignments, students explore and share personal experiences in the context of contemporary nursing issues, such as the nursing shortage, workforce challenges, healthcare financing, professional organizations, and diversity. They are challenged to examine and propose solutions to these nursing issues in addition to those in their workplace. Students reflect on Walden's mission of social change and its impact on their future nursing practice as a scholar-practitioner. Because this is the first nursing course within the RN/BSN program, students learn to use Walden University's resources to enhance writing skills. Students are also introduced to the tools essential to success at Walden.
(6 cr.) NURS 3020 Health Assessment
Through this course, students have the opportunity to gain the knowledge and skills required to collect data related to assessment of individual health status. They learn the physical examination skills of inspection, palpation, percussion, and auscultation used to assess major body systems across the lifespan. They gain practical experience using interviewing techniques and communication skills for taking patient histories, and they discuss the psychological, social, and cultural aspects of clinical assessment. Additionally, students consider the integration of data to guide the nursing process and ethical guidelines. Engaging in interactive simulations, students apply knowledge and demonstrate understanding of conducting health assessments.
(5 cr.) NURS 3150 Foundations of Nursing Research
Nurses must understand research in order to effectively participate in the provision of evidence-based nursing care. Students in this course learn the foundational elements of the research process, refine information literacy skills, and develop an understanding of ethical research. Students investigate each step of the research process and complete a critical examination of quantitative and qualitative research relevant to their nursing practice. Students are given the tools to analyze nurse-sensitive indicators and clinical practice guidelines. (Prerequisite(s): RN-BSN Track students: STAT 3001 or PSYC 3002; RN-BSN-AIM Track students: STAT 3001 or PSYC 3002; cannot be taken with NURS 5052.)
(5 cr.) NURS 4115 Role of the Nurse—Public and Global Health
Students in this course will widen their perspectives related to promoting health and preventing disease as they examine health issues that transcend national borders, class, race, ethnicity, and culture. Students evaluate the role of the nurse in preserving and promoting health among diverse populations as well as the role in illness prevention and health promotion, protection, and maintenance of targeted populations. They also explore principles of epidemiology and the influencing sociopolitical factors that impact health and well-being of humankind. Students engage in assignments designed to provide practical application of content on topical issues, such as infant mortality rates in the United States and abroad, infectious or communicable disease, and implications of global climate change on health, among others. Finally, students consider and reflect on the nurse's role as a leader in promoting positive social change in transforming the health of populations in the world.
(5 cr.) NURS 4005 Topics in Clinical Nursing
Nurses play a critical role in the care of patients with major acute and chronic health problems. They are accountable for clinical outcomes and for promoting quality and safety in patient care through the use of information technology. Students in this course will examine their role in the evaluation of nurse-sensitive indicators, standards, and core measures to develop an evidence-based practice approach to care. Students explore the relationship of genetics and genomics to health and illness as well as infection-control issues. The nurse's role in palliative and end-of-life care and complementary and alternative therapies is also explored. Students apply course concepts and demonstrate an understanding of nursing interventions and agency policy to improve nursing practice.
(5 cr.) NURS 4210 Role of the Nurse Leader in Population Health
Students in this course focus on application of theories and concepts from nursing and public health sciences in assessing health status, preventing and controlling disease, and promoting a healthier population by working with families, aggregates, communities, and healthcare systems. Students apply system thinking by using epidemiological and community assessment techniques to examine at-risk populations, health promotion, and levels of prevention with special emphasis on ethnically diverse and vulnerable populations. Major local, state, and national health issues are considered, including communicable disease, chronic illness, environmental and occupational health, bioterrorism, emergency and disaster preparedness and response. Practice experiences provide learning experiences in population-based health promotion by collaborating with interdisciplinary public health partners in a local community.(1 credit of practicum equates to 72 clock hours of student practice experience hours.) (Prerequisite(s): RN-BSN Track students: NURS 4100; RN-BSN-AIM Track students: NURS 5052.)
(5 cr.) NURS 4220 Leadership Competencies in Nursing and Healthcare
Contemporary nurses who wish to influence the current healthcare system must equip themselves with the knowledge and competencies to lead in times of pressure, constant change, and innovation. Quality Improvement science provides a rich set of tools and techniques and has been adopted by most nursing leaders. Nurses are expected to lead with quality improvement knowledge and competencies. Students in this course work toward gaining these skills by focusing on real practice problems and developing evidence-based solutions. They also learn skills and techniques in team building; strengthening interpersonal, communication, and interdisciplinary collaboration; promoting meaningful use of data to gauge improvements and problem solving; translating day to day practice problems to long term strategy for organizational growth; and identify strategies to manage organizational change. Students apply course concepts through case studies. Through this practice experience, students gain professional knowledge from nursing leaders in practice the application of quality improvement science. (1 credit of practicum equates to 72 clock hours of student practice experience hours.) (Prerequisite(s): RN-BSN Track students: NURS 4100; RN-BSN-AIM Track students: NURS 5052.)
(5 cr.) Core Courses Transferable into any Walden MSN Specialization
NURS 5050 Policy and Advocacy for Improving Population Health
In today's rapidly changing healthcare delivery system, decisions made within the political arena impact the future of health delivery systems, healthcare professionals, and the populations they serve. In this course, students examine the policy process and its impact on healthcare delivery, cost, quality, and access. Students examine the importance of getting healthcare issues on federal and state agenda, investigate governmental response through legislation and regulation, and identify where they can advocate for positive outcomes in program/policy design, implementation, and evaluation. Global health issues are examined for their relevance and impact on the development of the nurse advocate. Through discussions, reflection, case studies, and the application of professional communications techniques as political tactics to influence policy outcomes, students demonstrate integration of policy decision-making into professional nurse practice for the benefit of individuals and populations.
(5 cr.) NURS 5051 Transforming Nursing and Healthcare Through Technology
Nursing informatics is essential to the provision of effective and efficient care. This course examines nursing informatics as a nursing competency and a nursing specialty. Students examine the role of the nurse informaticist in current practices related to the collection, access, and use of health information and knowledge, as well as the implementation of clinical systems. Through this course, students gain an understanding of how informatics is used to improve advanced nursing practice and healthcare outcomes across organizations, public health, and consumer health settings.
(5 cr.) NURS 5052 Essentials of Evidence-Based Practice
Nurses base practice on sound and tested evidence to ensure the safety, high quality, and cost-effectiveness of patient care. This course provides students the opportunity to gain a better understanding of evidence-based practice (EBP) and how it interacts and aligns with research and quality improvement. Students will examine how to use databases to discover evidence and how to apply their knowledge of research methodologies to critically appraise literature. They will also examine opportunities to strengthen their synthesis and integration skills to determine whether a change in practice is needed, based on a body of evidence. Through exploration of implementation, evaluation, and dissemination strategies, students will explore the intricacies of leading and mentoring change within an organization to enhance nursing practice. (Prerequisite(s): NURS 3150; cannot be taken with NURS 3150.)
(5 cr.) VIEW ALL COURSES Tuition and Fees
Progress at Your Pace. Control Your Cost.
Walden’s Tempo Learning® programs follow a subscription-based pricing format. Students are billed a flat-rate for each three-month subscription term. All pricing is represented in U.S. dollars and is subject to change.
Program Subscription Period Tuition Subscription Period Technology Fee Subscription Period Time Frame Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-BSN) Completion Program $2,980 $75 3-month subscription period
Financial Aid
Financial aid is available for this program. Our financial aid advisors can help you identify funding opportunities to help you pay for your education.
- 180 quarter credits
FINANCIAL AID
Many Walden degree-seeking students—67%—receive some form of financial aid.* Create a customized plan that makes sense for you.
*Source: Walden University’s Office of Financial Aid. Data reports as of 2018.
Find Ways to SaveProgram Savings
Tempo Competency-Based Learning™: Receive up to a $1,000 grant if you reside in the U.S. and start this program on May 3, 2021. Contact one of our Enrollment Specialists to learn more.
Get Started NowAdmission Requirements
Program Admission Considerations:To be considered for admission to this bachelor’s program, you must have an associate degree or diploma in nursing and a valid RN license. If you choose the competency-based option, you also must transfer 90 quarter credits from prior coursework. Walden University is currently unable to accept applications for the competency-based RN-BSN AIM option from residents of the following states: Massachusetts, New York, and Rhode Island.
General Admission Requirements: All applicants must submit a completed online application and official transcripts. More information for international applicants.
Position Yourself for Career Growth
A BSN can lay a strong foundation for your future, preparing you for more responsibilities, higher earnings, and advanced degrees. Exchange valuable perspectives and insights with other RNs as you continue to hone your leadership and practical skills. Implement what you learn immediately to improve community health and the reputation of your healthcare environment.
Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the Walden's online RN to BSN program will be prepared to:
- Apply leadership and informatics concepts in decision-making to promote patient safety and quality care.
- Use evidence based on the sciences, humanities, and research to guide nursing practice across the health-illness continuum in a variety of healthcare settings.
- Evaluate the implications of policy on issues of access, equity, affordability, and social justice in healthcare delivery, including the health of vulnerable populations and healthcare disparities.
- Demonstrate effective communication and collaboration skills to improve patient outcomes.
- Implement individual and population-focused interventions to promote health and to prevent and manage disease and injuries.
- Exhibit accountability for personal and professional behaviors in accordance with standards of moral, ethical, and legal conduct with a commitment to continuous professional development.
- Provide patient-centered nursing care based on a comprehensive and focused health assessment across the life span using sound clinical judgment as well as developmentally and culturally appropriate approaches.
What’s the Career Impact of Earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing?
Gain a Career Edge
As the population ages and baby boomers retire, nurses are more in demand than ever before. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that employment of registered nurses will grow by 7% through 2029—much faster than the national average.3
In nursing, education matters. With an influx of graduates entering the field, a BSN can give you a competitive edge. According to a 2020 AACN survey, 82.4% of employers at hospitals and healthcare settings said they strongly prefer to hire nurses with a bachelor’s degree.4
What Can I Do With a BSN?
A BSN may qualify you for more nursing jobs or even help you advance into a leadership role. A bachelor’s in nursing also serves as a bridge to an advanced degree, whether you intend to pursue your Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or go all the way to a doctorate.
Registered nurses who hold a BSN are prepared to pursue a variety of roles in inpatient and outpatient settings, including the ones below.
- Insurance companies
- Magnet hospitals
- Healthcare foundations
- Community organizations
- Federal agencies
- Military healthcare organizations
- Nursing organizations
- Minority nurse advocacy groups
Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of this online RN to BSN program.
Increase Your Earning Potential
A Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree can potentially lead to higher earnings. According to PayScale, the average annual salary for a BSN holder is $85,187.5
Testimonials
I enjoyed my studies at Walden University, including the structure of the courses and the availability of the library, academic advising, and technical support.
Marilyn Pusey Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Graduate
I was inspired to get my degree because I grew up in a community where there were no doctors. Children grew up under ‘survival of the fittest’ conditions.
George Enongene Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Graduate
Walden University has helped me develop the skills to pass my knowledge on to the nurses I educate on a daily basis.
Jason Lee Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Graduate
Resource Articles
How a Virtual Clinical Simulation Can Improve Your Nursing Skills
FAQ About Walden’s Online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-BSN) Completion Program
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At online universities like Walden University, you can enroll in an online RN to BSN completion program as a registered nurse (RN) who wishes to move their career to the next level. These programs are designed to help those who have an active nursing license and an associate degree or diploma in nursing earn their BSN in less time than it would take to earn the degree without nursing experience. Some RN to BSN online programs, including Walden’s, will give you the opportunity to transfer up to 75% of the credits you need for graduation, giving you a significant head start toward earning your degree. Walden also offers a competency-based option that lets you learn—and earn credits—at your own pace.
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Thanks to online learning, earning your degree and advancing your nursing career is more convenient than ever. An online nursing program allows you to complete your coursework from home and on a schedule that gives you the power to choose when in the day you want to attend class. That means you can continue to work full time while you further your education. These advantages have made online nursing programs popular among working professionals.
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When it comes to finding a high-quality nursing program, you should look for accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). CCNE is a national accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. CCNE accreditation signifies that a program has met rigorous academic and professional standards and is designed to prepare effective nurses to make an impact in the field. CCNE accreditation also ensures the quality and integrity of baccalaureate, graduate, and residency programs in nursing. Walden’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN–BSN) completion program has received this accreditation.
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The U.S. healthcare system is massive, with every region in the nation needing qualified healthcare professionals. And medicine is becoming more complicated and specialized every day. In order to have the knowledge base to keep up with modern medical technology; take advantage of electronic medical records; and treat patients in the most effective, efficient, and culturally appropriate ways, nurses need education that goes beyond RN training. Achieving higher levels of education—like earning your BSN at Walden—can better prepare you to meet the increased demand for care and improve the quality of healthcare delivery as the profession continues to transform.
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When you earn a BSN degree, you’ll gain higher-level nursing and professional skills that you can parlay into a higher-level nursing career. For example, a BSN can help you qualify for leadership roles such as heading up a team of nurses or working in healthcare administration. When earning your Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), you’ll learn how to protect, promote, and optimize an individual’s health and abilities. You’ll be taught how to prevent illness and injury, facilitate healing, and help alleviate suffering. In addition, you will study relevant research in support of improved practice and patient outcomes. You’re also likely to become an advocate for the care of individuals, families, groups, communities, or populations.1
1Source: www.nursingworld.org/EspeciallyForYou/What-is-Nursing
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Yes. In early 2019, a study was featured in The Joint Commission Journal of Quality and Patient Safety that reported RNs with baccalaureates were significantly more prepared than nurses with associate degrees in 12 out of 16 areas.1 These areas were related to both quality and safety, including evidence-based practice, data analysis, and project implementation. Through this study, it was concluded that requiring RNs to earn their BSN could help safeguard the quality of patient care.
1Source: www.aacnnursing.org/News-Information/Fact-Sheets/Impact-of-Education
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A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is becoming the degree preferred by employers seeking skilled nurses and is often required to apply to a master’s program in nursing. A BSN program is designed to enhance a registered nurse’s education and provide the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the evolving demands of healthcare delivery. A bachelor’s in nursing program better prepares RNs to provide quality care by going beyond basic clinical care skills and expanding the curriculum to include communication, leadership, and critical thinking skills.
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Nurses with a BSN may have greater opportunities for career advancement and higher salaries. Having a BSN can put you on a path to practice in specialty areas and may lead to supervisory and management positions. Such positions require an in-depth level of knowledge and critical thinking skills that a BSN degree program provides. Having a BSN can also help impact patient outcomes. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing reports on a research study that indicates that patient care provided by BSN-prepared nurses tends to lead to lower mortality and readmission rates.*
*American Association of Colleges of Nursing, “The Impact of Education on Nursing Practice”
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According to PayScale, the average annual salary for a BSN holder is $85,187.* Earning a BSN degree can lead to higher compensation and more job opportunities for RNs. Many healthcare facilities have begun to require that RNs have a BSN degree, even for entry-level nursing positions.
*PayScale, Bachelor of Science in Nursing BSN Degree (retrieved October 2020)
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Registered nurses who have earned a BSN have the ability to work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. Nurses with a BSN also have the opportunity to work in healthcare specialty areas, such as family medicine, home health, psychiatry, and may be considered preferred candidates for leadership positions, especially in organizations that have received Magnet Recognition status. The Magnet Recognition Program®, an initiative by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, recognizes hospitals and other healthcare facilities for high-quality patient care and requires all nurse leaders in the facility to at minimum hold a BSN.
Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the completion of a degree program.
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A registered nurse (RN) is a professional who has completed the necessary education requirements, such as an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or nursing diploma program, and passed the NCLEX-RN exam for licensure. A nurse with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is an RN who has completed a bachelor’s degree program, which typically takes four years. Nurses who start their career with a diploma or an ADN can continue their education with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-BSN) Completion Program or may decide to advance their education by enrolling in an RN to MSN program. Both of these degree program options are offered by Walden University.
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Although requirements vary from program to program, a BSN can help prepare you to enter medical school, since some of the course load may be similar. According to the Association of American Medical Colleges, before applying to medical school, students should complete the Medical College Admission Test® (MCAT®) and demonstrate that they can handle rigorous coursework. Some schools require applicants to complete premedical course requirements while others have moved to competency-based admissions. It is important to review the specific requirements for each school.
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In order to become a nurse practitioner (NP), you need to earn a master’s degree in nursing with an NP specialization that aligns with your passions and career goals. Most RNs will earn a BSN degree prior to pursuing an MSN. For RNs interested in a streamlined path from a bachelor’s to a master’s degree in nursing, Walden offers an RN-BSN-Accelerate Into Master’s (AIM) track. This option allows you to earn credits toward a master’s degree while earning your BSN. Another option is the RN to MSN track in Walden’s Master of Science in Nursing program, which offers an accelerated degree path for registered nurses who don’t have a BSN or have a bachelor’s degree in another discipline.
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Time to completion for Walden University’s RN to BSN program will vary from student to student based on a number of factors, including whether you choose a course-based or competency-based format. Walden’s Tempo Competency-Based Learning™ format, which features a subscription model, offers students the most control over time and cost. Walden Enrollment Specialists can help you determine a degree completion time frame based on your individual circumstances.
Questions about our Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-BSN) Completion Program?
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