A BSN built for nurses, by nurses
- Finish in as little as one year
- No application fee, SAT/ACT scores or enrollment caps
- Get 45 credits for your unencumbered RN license, transfer in up to 45 more
- $330/credit ($990/course)
- Accelerated RN to MSN option for all 5 MSN tracks
- Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)1
RN to BSN Degree Program Overview
The online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) program at Southern New Hampshire University is designed with our nursing students in mind. From work schedules to family and other life events, we recognize our nurses need the flexibility that an online platform can offer.
The role that nurses play in healthcare is always evolving as nurses are asked to lead and care in all situations. With changing technologies, healthcare regulations and implementation of care, nurses with bachelor's degrees are needed more than ever before.
In these complex environments, you'll need critical skills and competencies, including evidence-based care, health promotion, disease prevention and leveraging technology to enhance your clinical and professional development. The RN to BSN online program delivers on those objectives and more – so you can change your life, without changing a shift.
Transfer-friendly
Get 45 credits for your unencumbered RN license, then transfer up to 45 more into the RN to BSN program. By transferring in the maximum 90 credits, your BSN degree may already be 75% complete when you enroll here.
Built for nurses, by nurses
Nursing professionals face a number of unpredictable daily challenges, from overtime shifts to fast-paced, on-the-job demands – we get it. That's why our curriculum was designed with nurses in mind. We aim to simplify the pathway to your degree, from offering affordable access to coursework online and on your time, to providing academic and career support when you need it. Because we believe that nurses are the heart of healthcare – and you deserve the opportunity to pursue your goals.
What You'll Learn
- Safe nursing practice and outcomes
- Evidence-based practice
- Strategies to promote population health
- Communication with teams
- Trends in healthcare policy & regulation
- Skills for lifelong learning
How You'll Learn
At SNHU, you'll get support from day 1 to graduation and beyond. And with no set class times, 24/7 access to the online classroom, and helpful learning resources along the way, you'll have everything you need to reach your goals.
Accelerated Pathway for MSN
5 Track Options for Registered Nurses
If you're looking to earn your MSN – and want to save time and money along the way – the Accelerated RN-MSN pathway could be the right fit for you.
This pathway allows you to complete graduate-level courses as an undergrad, reducing 4 of the MSN tracks (Population Healthcare, Family Nurse Practitioner, Healthcare Quality & Safety and Nurse Executive Leadership) by 6 credits and 1 of the MSN tracks (Nursing Education) by 9 credits.
The graduate-level courses required for this pathway are:
- IHP-501: Global Health and Diversity
- NUR-531: Interprofessional Leadership in Healthcare
- NUR-634 Facilitating Learning and Teaching Innovation in Nursing Education (Applies to MSN - Nursing Education track only)
It's important to note that in order to move into the MSN program, you must apply and be accepted after graduating from SNHU's BSN program.
RN to BSN students who transition into the online Accelerated RN to MSN pathway can choose from 5 specialty tracks designed to fit your career goals:
Take your nursing expertise and passion for teaching to an academic or clinical setting. Nursing education is a high-demand field with a promising future – as healthcare itself is dynamic and ever-evolving. As a graduate of this program, you'll meet the educational requirements you need to sit for the Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) exam offered by the National League for Nursing.
This MSN track requires 135 clinical practicum hours under the guidance of preceptors in your final course.
Promote practices that keep communities safe. An MSN in Population Healthcare can help you identify ways to connect practice to policy in pursuit of local change. You'll learn how partnerships among different sectors of the community – such as public health, industry, academia, health care, local government entities and beyond – can help achieve positive health outcomes.
This MSN track requires 135 clinical practicum hours under the guidance of preceptors in your final course.
MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner
Position yourself for success in one of most in-demand nursing roles. As an FNP, you'll have the skills you need to step into a role as a primary care provider. You'll also be able to provide care in environments as diverse as family medicine, private practice, community health clinics and more.
This MSN track requires 650 clinical practicum hours under the guidance of preceptors in your final course.
MSN - Healthcare Quality & Safety
Become an advocate for change and gain the skills you need to implement a culture of safety. In this program, you'll design, implement and evaluate healthcare quality improvement initiatives guided by critical thinking, data-driven decision making and evidence-based practices.
This MSN track requires 135 clinical practicum hours under the guidance of preceptors in your final course.
MSN - Nurse Executive Leadership
Set the vision for the delivery of safe, timely, efficient, equitable and patient-centered care. As a nurse leader in executive practice, you'll build leadership, strategic planning, human resources and finance skills. Working within a collaborative and interprofessional environment, you'll influence and improve both the patient experience of care and the health of populations.
This MSN track requires 135 clinical practicum hours under the guidance of preceptors in your final course.
Follow Our Accelerated Pathway for MSN
Calling all registered nurses! Want to advance your career faster — and for less money? SNHU designed this pathway for people just like YOU.
BSN Career Outlook
As the population ages, and nursing professionals retire, there is a growing need for qualified individuals to step up and deliver quality care. Many of these jobs will extend outside of hospitals, into the community, in long-term care facilities, outpatient centers and in patients' homes.2
Along with this growth comes a continued demand for nurses with bachelor's-level degrees. Some employers require a BSN, while others may require it to be achieved within a specific timeframe. SNHU recognizes this and offers a flexible, affordable option to nurses.
Job Growth and Salary
Job Growth
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, job prospects for registered nurses are expected to grow 6% through 2032.2
Potential Salary
Registered nurses earned a median annual salary of $81,220 in 2022.2
Understanding the Numbers
When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors — like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.
Start Your Journey Toward an Online Nursing Degree
Why SNHU For Your BSN
Flexible
With no set class meeting times, you can learn on your schedule and access online course materials 24/7.
Affordable
As part of our mission to make higher education more accessible, we’re committed to keeping our tuition rates low. In fact, we offer some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation.
Prior coursework could also help you save time and money. SNHU’s transfer policy allows you to transfer up to 90 credits toward your bachelor's degree and 45 credits for an associate degree from your previous institutions—that means you could save up to 75% off the cost of tuition. You could also save time and money by getting college credit for previous work experience, or by taking advantage of military discounts and employer tuition assistance if available to you.
Respected
Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 160,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), a regional accreditor, which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.
Recently, SNHU has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education:
- U.S. News & World Report named SNHU the 2021 Most Innovative University in the North and one of the nation's "Best Regional Universities"
- Awarded the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology by The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)
- A $1 million grant from Google.org to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth
Network
At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 300,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. Our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. Plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities.
93.6% of online students would recommend SNHU (according to a 2022 survey with 17,000+ respondents). Discover why SNHU may be right for you.
Admission Requirements
Part of our mission to expand access to quality higher education means removing the barriers that may stand between you and your degree. That’s why you can apply at any time and get a decision within days of submitting all required materials.
Acceptance decisions are made on a rolling basis throughout the year for our 6 undergraduate terms.
To be fully accepted to the undergraduate nursing program, students must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a conferred diploma or associate degree in nursing from a State Board of Nursing approved program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam OR an accredited nursing program.
- Have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 on the degree-awarding transcript OR a cumulative GPA between 2.0 and 2.49 on the degree-awarding transcript with a minimum of nine (9) credit hours earned subsequent to the diploma or associate degree with at least a 2.5 cumulative GPA.
- Must maintain an active unencumbered Registered Nurse license. Licensure exam must be equivalent to NCLEX-RN examination. If a student holds licenses in more than one state/jurisdiction, all licenses must be unencumbered.
- Students who graduated from a nursing program and do not yet have their nursing license may be admitted if they meet all other admission requirements. However, evidence of licensure must be provided prior to the course start date of the second nursing term in the program.
If you are considering an MSN program at SNHU, please check MSN admission criteria including GPA requirements.
If you are an RN to BSN student interested in the Accelerated RN to MSN program option, contact an admission counselor or your academic advisor for more information.
Graduates of an ASN program from a New Hampshire community college should contact an admission counselor at Southern New Hampshire University to learn more about our tuition benefit and admission requirements.
NOTE: SNHU nursing programs are not authorized in the state of Washington or US territories and we are not accepting students residing in Washington state or US territories into Nursing programs at this time. Currently enrolled students who move into the state of Washington or a US territory will not be able to continue in nursing courses until they move out of the state of Washington or the US territory. Prospective students are encouraged to contact Admission, and current students should contact their Advisor, for more information.
Students enrolled in SNHU nursing programs must comply with requirements of the healthcare organizations where their Clinical Practice Experiences will be completed. If the healthcare organization requires an affiliation agreement prior to conducting Clinical Practice Experiences, additional requirements may include (but are not limited to) criminal background checks and verification of licensure, drug testing, immunization records, health insurance, and medical malpractice insurance. Students are responsible for any costs incurred as a result of meeting these additional requirements.
How to Apply
If you’re ready to apply, follow these simple steps to get the process going:
- Complete a free undergraduate application
- Submit any additional documents required
- Work with an admission counselor to explore financial options and walk through the application process
If you have questions or need help filling out your application, call 1.888.387.0861 or email enroll@snhu.edu.
What SNHU Students are Saying
Kristina Libby ’17
“I felt like I had a personal relationship with my instructors throughout each class I took ... Any questions that (I) had, the instructors were always there.”
Find out what it was like for Libby to earn a BSN online.
Courses & RN to BSN Curriculum
"Our RN-BSN program provides working nurses with the knowledge and skills to address today’s complex problems in healthcare," said Kristi Dalby, DNP, RN, CNE, Undergraduate Nursing Program Director at SNHU. "Students are exposed to a diverse group of nurses, with many opportunities to connect content to the real world in order to inform their current and future nursing practice."
At SNHU, our nursing students work on developing the awareness, knowledge and proficiency reflected in the 10 domains central to nursing practice, as outlined by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN)4. The 10 domains are:
- Information and healthcare technologies
- Interprofessional partnerships
- Knowledge for nursing practice
- Person-centered care
- Personal, professional and leadership development
- Population health
- Professionalism
- Quality and safety
- Scholarship for nursing practice
- Systems-based practice
Experienced Nursing Faculty
Courses throughout the BSN program are taught by instructors with many years of nursing experience.
"Faculty at SNHU recognize the unique life and professional experiences that students bring into the BSN program," said Elizabeth Christman, DNP, RN, CNE, clinical faculty at SNHU. "We view students as collegial partners and value their professional expertise in the classroom as we share knowledge and learn with one another. We recognize the importance of individualized student support to encourage students’ personal and professional goal achievement as they explore professional development opportunities within their career."
Taught by Industry Experts
Kristi Dalby, DNP, RN, CNE, Undergraduate Nursing Program Director
"Our online BSN program is for all nurses, from those looking to advance their career in leadership or clinical practice to nurses that want to continue at the bedside, but better support their patients armed with the ability to implement evidence-based best practices."
Curriculum Requirements & Resources
General Education
All undergraduate students are required to take general education courses, which are part of SNHU's newly redesigned program, The Commons. The goal of The Commons' curriculum is to empower you with some of the most in-demand skills, so you can succeed not only in your academic career, but in your personal and professional life too.
Technology Resources
We provide cloud-based virtual environments in some courses to give you access to the technology you need for your degree – and your career. Learn more about our virtual environments.
Earn Math Credits
Save time and tuition with our Pathways to Math Success assessments. Depending on your scores, you could earn up to 12 math credits – the equivalent of 4 courses – toward your degree for less than $50 per assessment. For additional information, or to register for a Pathways to Math Success assessment, contact your admission counselor or academic advisor today.
HEaRT Experiential Learning
Looking to gain professional healthcare experience, even before you graduate? Do it with HEaRT.
Specially designed for learners in healthcare and nursing, HEaRT (Higher Education and Real World Training) is a powerful experiential learning opportunity at SNHU. These online, asynchronous, voluntary experiences help connect students with employers to help solve real-world business problems – so you can be ready to make an impact in your field.
| View Full Curriculum in the Catalog |
|---|
| BS in Nursing |
| Courses May Include | ||
|---|---|---|
| BS in Nursing Online | ||
| IHP 410 | Population Health and Cultural Competence | This course explores a population-based approach to understanding disease management, chronic care management, and health policy making. It explores how behavioral factors, social circumstances and environmental exposures affects a population and how to mitigate these factors using culturally relevant approaches to create a culture of wellness. |
| IHP 501 | Global Health and Diversity | In this interprofessional course, learners will explore major global health challenges and their impact on healthcare delivery systems. Topics explored include determinants of health, multiple approaches to advance health, social justice principles, and strategies to advocate for social justice. Learners will gain knowledge to apply social justice and human rights principles to address global health and wellness. |
| NUR 301 | Concepts of Professional Nursing Practice | In this course, students will expand their knowledge from prelicensure education and nursing experiences to better understand multiple aspects of professional nursing practice. This course will cover a variety of topics that encompass individual development within the nursing profession. Throughout the course, interprofessional communication and collaboration will be emphasized. Students will analyze elements of healthcare and their impact on nursing practice issues. |
| NUR 302 | Clinical Judgment and Holistic Assessment in Nursing | In this course, students will incorporate assessment findings, cultural awareness, and the social determinants of health to develop a holistic plan of care for individuals across the lifespan. Students will build upon their own understanding of health literacy and current nursing knowledge to apply critical thinking skills to promote optimal health outcomes. |
| NUR 409 | Strategies for Quality Improvement in Healthcare | In this course, students will explore a multitude of theories and strategies related to quality improvement measures in healthcare. Students will examine the issues, ethics, and liabilities that impact quality and safety. Students will have the opportunity to offer insights for improvement by identifying gaps and evaluating changes after implementation. Specific strategies will be provided to promote quality and safety in healthcare systems. |
| NUR 411 | Understanding Research to Guide Nursing Practice | In this course, students will explore the components of a research study while analyzing its application to scholarship and clinical practice. Students will use scholarly inquiry to examine the research process and identify potential solutions to a professional practice issue. At the completion of this course, students will learn how to communicate research findings to guide evidence-based practice. |
| NUR 499 | Professional Identity and Advocacy in Nursing Practice | In this course, students will integrate the spirit of inquiry with professional identity to develop their personal nursing brand. This course will focus on lifelong learning strategies, self-reflection, and self-care skills to maximize professional growth opportunities and foster resilience. They will also develop the skills to professionally communicate and advocate for themselves while leading change in the field of healthcare. |
| NUR 431 | Leadership Practices for the Professional Nurse | In this course, students will broaden their understanding of cause and effect by examining strategies, trends, and current issues within healthcare systems. Through a lens of critical thinking and self-reflection, students will develop and refine skills in communication, leadership, and holistic practice. Students will connect theoretical approaches to leadership and team dynamics to enhance interprofessional collaboration. |
| Total Credits: 120 | ||
Minimum Hardware Requirements
|
Component Type |
PC (Windows OS) |
Apple (Mac OS) |
|---|---|---|
|
Operating System |
Currently supported operating system from Microsoft. |
Currently supported operating system from Apple. |
|
Memory (RAM) |
8GB or higher |
8GB or higher |
|
Hard Drive |
100GB or higher |
100GB or higher |
|
Antivirus Software |
Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
|
SNHU Purchase Programs |
||
|
Internet/ Bandwidth |
5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100 ms Latency |
5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100 ms Latency |
Notes:
- Laptop or desktop? Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.
- Note: Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device. SNHU does, however, have an affordable laptop option that it recommends: Dell Latitude 3301 with Windows 10.
- Office 365 Pro Plus is available free of charge to all SNHU students and faculty. The Office suite will remain free while you are a student at SNHU. Upon graduation you may convert to a paid subscription if you wish. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion. Review system requirements for Microsoft 365 plans for business, education and government.
- Antivirus software: Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.
Students enrolled in the BSN program are responsible for ensuring they have the minimum system hardware, software, and equipment. In addition to the SNHU technology requirements, BSN students should have the following:
- The ability to record (webcams and microphones are often built into laptops or computers)
- At least 5 Mbps internet upload speed
- If using a Windows machine, at least Intel i5 or AMD Ryzen with an integrated graphics chip
- If using a Mac machine, at least Intel i5 or Apple M1 with an integrated graphics chip
- Google Chrome
University Accreditation
Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) as well as several other accrediting bodies.
ANCC Accredited Provider
At Southern New Hampshire University, we’re committed to your success — even beyond graduation. That’s why we’re committed to delivering accredited continuing education for nurses and healthcare professionals. From one-hour webinars to multi-day conferences and more, these opportunities are built to help you continue to meet the needs of communities across the globe.
Visit our SNHU continuing education page to learn more.
Southern New Hampshire University is accredited as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's (ANCC) Commission on Accreditation.
Tuition & Fees
As a private, nonprofit university, we’re committed to making college more accessible by making it more affordable. That’s why we offer some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation.
We also offer financial aid packages to those who qualify, plus a 30% tuition discount for U.S. service members, both full and part time, and the spouses of those on active duty.
| Online Undergraduate Programs | Per Course | Per Credit Hour | Annual Cost for 30 credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Degree/Certificates | $990 | $330 | $9,900 |
| Degree/Certificates (U.S. service members, both full and part time, and the spouses of those on active duty)* | $693 | $231 | $6,930 |
Tuition Rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually. *Note: students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.
Additional Costs No Application Fee, Course Materials ($ varies by course)
Frequently Asked Questions
Are SNHU's nursing programs accredited?
Yes. The baccalaureate degree program in nursing and the master’s degree program in nursing at Southern New Hampshire University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202.887.6791.
Is a BSN a registered nurse (RN)?
No. An RN might have a BSN, but they are not the same thing. RN stands for registered nurse – a title given to a nursing professional who has completed educational and licensure requirements. While these requirements vary by state, all RNs must have at least an associate degree and pass an exam known as the NCLEX-RN.
The RN to BSN program gives nurses with associate degrees the opportunity to further their education online while they continue their lives as nursing professionals.
Can you get your RN to BSN online?
Yes, you can earn your RN to BSN online. The RN to BSN online option is perfect for post-licensure registered nurses juggling work, family and other life obligations.
As more and more healthcare employers are demanding their nurses be BSN-holders, earning your Bachelor of Science in Nursing helps qualify you for more positions. If you’ve already completed an accredited associate program in nursing, the flexibility of our online BSN program could be a great way to help advance your career without missing shifts.
Plus, you'll have access to a network of nursing experts who can help you throughout your program.
"Our students are supported from day one," said Kristi Dalby, DNP, RN, CNE, Undergraduate Nursing Program Director at SNHU. "Online learning can feel isolating, but not at SNHU. The faculty and advising support is incredible."
And at Southern New Hampshire University, we take credibility seriously. SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). Our online BSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).1
Does RN to BSN require clinical hours?
We believe that nurses shine when they're out in the world – whether it's in an emergency room, a clinic or a residential care facility. This is why we have built our curriculum to include assignments that take students into their communities through clinical practice experiences. Please note that this is not the same experience that a registered nurse would have experienced in their pre-licensure program.
Our nursing program accreditor, the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), defines clinical practice experiences as planned learning activities in nursing practice that allow students to understand, perform and refine professional competencies.
Is there experiential learning within a BSN program?
Some BSN programs do incorporate hands-on projects into their work. Southern New Hampshire University's online program is one of them.
“They have the opportunity to collaborate with a mentor to make an impact on a population in the Nursing in the Community course," said Kristi Dalby, DNP, RN, CNE, Undergraduate Nursing Program Director at SNHU. "In this course, students work with a qualified mentor to assess community needs and develop a QI proposal.”
Students also have the opportunity to participate in the Higher Education and Real World Training (HEaRT ) program.
Qualified students who participate may be able to earn prior learning assessment (PLA) credit for an undergraduate elective, or even to apply toward a graduate level course within the MSN program at SNHU.
How long does it take to go from RN to BSN?
The time it takes to complete an RN to BSN program depends on how many courses you take per term and your prior educational experience. But already having RN licensure means you’re well on your way to completing your BSN.
At SNHU, your unencumbered RN license alone is worth 45 credits of your BSN, and we accept up to 90 transfer credits. This means you can complete your RN to BSN program in as little as 1 year.
What kind of nurses get paid the most?
Salaries for nurses vary depending on several factors, including years of experience, level of education and industry.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for registered nurses in May 2022 was $81,220.2 In that same year, nurses in government ($92,310) and state, local and private hospitals ($82,250) were among the top earners. Ambulatory healthcare services ($78,670), nursing and residential care facilities ($75,410), and educational services in state, local and private sectors ($65,450) followed closely behind.2
For those looking to advance beyond a BSN, an accelerated RN to MSN program online can help position you for advanced practice or leadership roles. Learn more about types of nurses.
How fast can I get my MSN?
The pace at which you can earn an MSN depends on your chosen pathway. However, SNHU's accelerated pathways (offered for all 5 specialty MSN tracks) are a great way to speed along the process. They allow students to take courses during their BSN that can then be used to waive credits in each of the MSN tracks. 4 of the MSN tracks (Population Healthcare, Family Nurse Practitioner, Healthcare Quality & Safety and Nurse Executive Leadership) can be reduced by 6 credits, while 1 of the MSN tracks (Nursing Education) can be reduced by 9 credits.
Licensure and Certification Disclosures
SNHU has provided additional information for programs that educationally prepare students for professional licensure or certification. Learn more about what that means for your program on our licensure and certification disclosure page.
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References
Sources & Citations (1, 2, 3)
1 The baccalaureate degree program in nursing and the master’s degree program in nursing at Southern New Hampshire University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202.887.6791.
2 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/registered-nurses.htm (viewed Nov. 13, 2023). Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.
3 American Association of Colleges and Nursing, The Essentials: Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Education [PDF], on the internet, at https://www.aacnnursing.org/Portals/42/AcademicNursing/pdf/Essentials-2021.pdf (viewed Oct. 7, 2021)