Nursing: RN/BSN Completion Program

Major: Nursing
Degree Awarded: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Calendar Type: Quarter
Minimum Required Credits: 180.0 quarter credits (for Registered Nurses)
Co-op Options: None
Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code: 51.3801
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code: 29-1141

About the Program

The RN/BSN Completion program is an option for nurses from associate degree and diploma nursing programs looking to complete the bachelor of science degree in nursing.

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program continues the education of registered nurses equipping them with the skills needed for complex health care environments. Core courses immerse the student in genetics, evidence-based practice, systems thinking, leadership and care coordination. Interactive practice experiences are woven throughout the curriculum using innovative learning technologies (e.g. digital clinical learning environments [DCE], problem-based/video case studies and global classrooms). Learning how to adopt evidence-based practice to both clinical and leadership roles prepare students to work in inter-professional teams, improve health care systems and patient outcomes. 

A BSN is awarded at the completion of the program. Qualified students are encouraged to apply to an MSN program in their final quarter for seamless progression. 

State restrictions may apply.

The RN to BSN program at Drexel University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Additional Information

Additional information is available on Drexel's College of Nursing and Health Professions RN-BSN Completion Program webpage and on the Drexel University Online RN-BSN Completion Program webpage.

Admission Requirements/Prerequisites

Admission Requirements

• RN licensure (provisional acceptance will generally be offered pending successful completion of the NCLEX-RN examination)
• Official college transcripts
• College grade point average of 2.0 or better
• High school degree or equivalent

To be eligible for admission to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, students must have completed 60.0 semester hours (90.0 quarter credits) of college prerequisites, as follows, with a grade of C or better. Students may transfer in up to 135.0 quarter credits. Remaining credits will be evaluated on an individual basis. To graduate, students must have completed 180.0 quarter credits.

The required 60.0 semester hours include:

Students must be graduates of nursing programs that are both regionally accredited and accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education for Nursing (ACEN) or the National League for Nursing Commission for Education Accreditation (CNEA). Students who meet the criteria of the Pennsylvania Nursing Articulation Model will receive credit for 30.0 semester hours (45.0 quarter credits) of nursing, which may be applied toward the program entrance requirements. 

Degree Requirements

The College of Nursing and Health Professions faculty uses a variety of teaching and learning methods to facilitate the achievement of a student’s personal objectives. All RN-BSN courses are offered online and incorporate a variety of innovative, interactive learning technologies. Courses are offered in both asynchronous and synchronous formats that allow the student flexibility in completing coursework over 10 week quarters. 

Students should contact their academic advisor prior to registration.

Writing-Intensive Course Requirements

In order to graduate, all students must pass three writing-intensive courses after their freshman year. Two writing-intensive courses must be in a student's major. The third can be in any discipline. Students are advised to take one writing-intensive class each year, beginning with the sophomore year, and to avoid “clustering” these courses near the end of their matriculation. Transfer students need to meet with an academic advisor to review the number of writing-intensive courses required to graduate.

A "WI" next to a course in this catalog may indicate that this course can fulfill a writing-intensive requirement. For the most up-to-date list of writing-intensive courses being offered, students should check the Writing Intensive Course List at the University Writing Program. Students scheduling their courses can also conduct a search for courses with the attribute "WI" to bring up a list of all writing-intensive courses available that term.

Sample Plan of Study

The Accelerated RN-BSN program is designed to be completed in 4 terms. Enrollment in Tier III assumes the student has completed an ADN or Diploma program, has passed the NCLEX-RN, and has completed all required coursework in TIER I and TIER II.

TIER III