Q: What is the WGU RN to BSN program?
A: The WGU RN to BSN (Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing) is a fully online, competency-based degree program designed for licensed Registered Nurses (RNs) with an associate degree or diploma in nursing. The program focuses on advancing professional nursing skills in leadership, research, community health, and evidence-based practice, preparing nurses for broader career opportunities and meeting the national drive for a more highly educated nursing workforce.
Q: How does the competency-based model work?
A: WGU’s unique model allows you to progress through courses by demonstrating mastery of required competencies, not by logging class hours. You study independently and take assessments (papers, projects, exams) when you are ready. If you already possess knowledge from experience, you may complete courses very quickly. Your pace determines how soon you finish, making it ideal for self-motivated individuals.
Q: What are the admission requirements?
A: Key requirements include:
- Current, Unencumbered RN License: Must be active in the U.S.
- Associate Degree or Nursing Diploma: From an accredited institution.
- Official Transcripts: Demonstrating your prior education.
- Completion of a Statistics Course: Often a prerequisite (can sometimes be completed during the program).
- Commitment to a Full Program Interview: To ensure the online, self-paced model is a good fit.
Q: How long does it take to complete the program?
A: The program is designed to be completed in 18 months on average, but this is highly individualized. Because it is term-based (6-month terms), you can complete as many courses as you are able per term for one flat-rate tuition. Many motivated students finish in 12 months or less.
Q: What is the cost of the program?
A: WGU charges per six-month term, not per credit hour. The current tuition is approximately $4,500 – $4,900 per term for the RN to BSN program. All required learning resources (e-books, etc.) are included at no extra cost. The faster you finish, the less you pay overall. Federal financial aid and scholarships are available.
Q: What courses/subjects are covered?
A: The curriculum builds upon your RN knowledge and includes core BSN topics such as:
- Leadership and Management in Nursing
- Community and Population Health
- Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice
- Health Assessment
- Pathophysiology and Pharmacology (advanced)
- Healthcare Policy, Ethics, and Informatics
- Capstone Project: A culminating professional project.
Q: Are there any clinical or practicum requirements?
A: Yes. The program includes a community and population health practicum. You will complete hands-on, field-based experience in your local community (approximately 40-60 hours). WGU provides guidelines and requires preceptor approval, but you arrange the practical experience locally, offering significant flexibility.
Q: Is WGU and its RN to BSN program accredited?
A: Yes. This is critically important. WGU is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). The nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the same body that accredits traditional BSN programs at major universities.
Q: What are the pros and cons of the WGU RN to BSN?
A:
- Pros: Accelerated & Flexible (study anytime), Low Cost (flat-rate tuition), Competency-Based (move quickly), Fully Online, CCNE-Accredited, No scheduled log-in times.
- Cons: Requires high self-motivation and discipline, less direct professor interaction (you are assigned a program mentor), you must self-arrange your practicum.
Q: Who is an ideal candidate for this program?
A: The ideal candidate is a currently licensed, working RN who is self-driven, comfortable with online learning, seeks maximum flexibility, wants to control their pace and cost, and is looking for an efficient, respected, and accredited path to earn their BSN.
For official details, current tuition, and to start an application, visit the WGU Nursing website directly at www.wgu.edu.