Nursing for Registered Nurses (RN to BSN)
Program Overview
An increasing number of registered nurses have discovered that they need a bachelor’s degree in nursing to meet the complex challenges of today’s healthcare environment. Created specifically for RNs with a diploma or associate degree, Kent State’s Nursing for Registered Nurses (RN-to-BSN) program will allow you to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in a 100 percent online format from one of the nation’s largest and most respected nursing programs.
This program is CCNE-accredited, available both part-time and full-time, and it can be completed 100 percent online in as little as 12 months. Our expert faculty and administrators will work closely with you to keep you on track, as well as equip you to meet the future challenges of professional nursing and influence the future of healthcare. Students may apply early to the M.S. degree in Health Informatics and double count 9 credit hours of graduate courses toward both degree programs. See the Combined Bachelor’s/Master’s Degree Program policy in the University Catalog for more information.
Accreditation: The bachelor’s degree in nursing at Kent State is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing. Kent State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
A Center of Excellence: Kent State University is a twice-designated Center of Excellence in Nursing Education by the National League for Nursing (2013-2017, 2017-2022). We are recognized in the “Advancing the Science of Nursing Education” category for our dedication to innovative and evidence-based nursing education.
Program Structure
- RN-BSN students may have already completed many of the classes in their associate degree or diploma program. Eligible credits can be transferred to meet these requirements. Students will need a total of 120 credit hours - and to transfer or complete the following courses (or their equivalents) to graduate:
- Anatomy I & II, Physiology I & II, Microbiology, Chemistry, College Writing I & II, General Psychology, Introduction to Sociology, Science of Human Nutrition, College Algebra, and Statistics
- In addition, one of the courses must meet Kent State’s global diversity requirements
- Graduate in as little as 12 months
- Individualized guidance - every student receives individualized advising and program planning by experienced academic advisors
- Rolling admissions - classes start every seven weeks, in the fall, spring and summer
Admissions Requirements
The university affirmatively strives to provide educational opportunities and access to students with varied backgrounds, those with special talents, and adult students who graduated from high school three or more years ago.
Admission to the Nursing for Registered Nurses major is selective. Criteria for admission include the following:
- Evidence of admission in good standing from a state-approved associate degree or diploma nursing program with a minimum 2.000 (on a 4.0 scale) overall GPA
English Language Proficiency Requirements for International Students: All international students must provide proof of English language proficiency (unless they meet specific exceptions) by earning a minimum 525 TOEFL score (71 on the Internet-based version), minimum 75 MELAB score, minimum 6.0 IELTS score, minimum 48 PTE score or minimum 100 DET score; or by completing the ESL level 112 Intensive Program. For more information on international admission, visit the Office of Global Education’s admission website.
In order to be compliant with federal and state laws related to online education and consumer protection, as well as state professional licensure/certification regulations, Kent State University may not be able to offer online programs to students residing in certain states. In addition, some state laws may impose limitations that could affect a program of study, including the inability to offer clinical practicum courses. Since these regulations undergo continuous updates (1) non-Ohio residents interested in pursuing any College of Nursing online program are advised to consult with their state licensing/certification agency and official Kent State information on state authorization before applying to this program (2) any student that is planning to move or practice in a different state after having been admitted to either the RN BSN, MSN or DNP programs must immediately inform the Office of Student Services at 330-672-7911 to determine whether or not he/she can continue in the program.
This program is only offered in select states, please see the College of Nursing website for more information.
Courses
Courses for this online BSN program allow currently registered nurses to complete an accredited bachelor’s degree. The program has prerequisite courses in microbiology, anatomy and physiology, and chemistry. The program also has required courses in genetics, integrative health, patient care technologies, evidence-based practices, nursing management and leadership, population health, nutrition, healthcare policy, and statistics. Students must also take required non-major courses in psychology and sociology, and they must complete a culminating capstone project.
All undergraduate students must also complete courses that satisfy the Kent State university requirements in order to graduate.
Tuition and Fees
Ohio Residents
| Per Credit Hour | Per 3-Credit Course | Approximate Tuition Cost |
| $400 | $1,200 | $12,000 (Total program cost dependent on credit hours required for individual students) |
Non-Ohio Residents
| Per Credit Hour | Per 3-Credit Course | Approximate Tuition Cost |
| $410 | $1,230 | $12,300 (Total program cost dependent on credit hours required for individual students) |
An additional Distance Learning fee for all students enrolled in a distance learning course is $15 per credit hour. Program tuition and costs are estimated and subject to change.
Actual tuition costs may vary based on a student’s chosen academic plan. For a complete listing of tuition rates for approved online programs please contact the One Stop for Student Services at 330-672-6000, or via our website Contact Us link.
The total program costs are estimates and are not final or binding. Program costs are based on standard fees, but fees may vary based on the actual classes taken. Kent State University disclaims any liability arising from the use of or reliance upon these program cost estimates by any person. Program costs are subject to change without notice.
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