RN to BSN Programs Nashville, TN

As a great nurse, you provide top-notch care to your patients and work collaboratively with the rest of the patient care team. You’ve mastered all the duties within your job description and need a new challenge or an opportunity to do more. Navigating to the next step, the BSN degree, will open the door to better job opportunities, positions in leadership, a broader scope of practice, more pay, and graduate study. The RN to BSN track is delivered through online study and is a convenient and flexible option to study without interrupting your work schedule. It is designed for registered nurses to enhance their knowledge and develop leadership skills for better opportunities in nursing.

Tennessee State University

The RN to BSN program at Tennessee State University is a career mobility program that is designed for registered nurses to earn the BSN degree. The program is offered fully online. The program is open to registered nurses who have completed all the general education requirements. After entering the program, students may have a total of six hours of remaining of prerequisites in the areas of communication, general electives, or humanities. New students are admitted once per year in the summer. The program must be completed within one calendar year – 2 or 3 semesters. It is a limited enrollment program based on faculty and clinical resources. Students will receive the BSN after completion of the requirements (30 credit hours) and award of transfer credits. Flexible class schedules are available for all students.

Program Outline

Credits: 30 credits
Duration: 12 months
Method of instruction: Online

Course titles:

Prerequisites: Human Anatomy and Physiology I w/Lab, Human Anatomy and Physiology II with Lab, Microbiology with Lab, Physiology and Pathophysiology with Lab, College Algebra, English Comp I, English Comp II, General Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Statistics, Introduction to Sociology, American History I, American History II, Introduction to Philosophy

Core courses – Professionalism, Gerontological Nursing Concepts, Pharmacology, Health Assessment, Health Assessment Lab, Nursing Research, Community Health Nursing, Community Health Nursing Clinical, Leadership and Management, Issues in Nursing and Healthcare, Nursing Informatics, Grief/Loss

Admission criteria:

  • Must be fully admitted to Tennessee State University
  • Must submit an application to the School of Nursing
  • Must upload all required documents during the admission process
  • Must hold a current unencumbered U.S. RN license
  • Must have an overall GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale and the end of the semester prior to application submission
  • Must have completed 60 credit hours of lower-division courses including general education courses
  • Must submit proof of satisfactory health examination
  • Must have current American Heart Association Healthcare Provider BLS training
  • Must have current immunizations, titers and tuberculosis screening
  • Must obtain national criminal background clearance
  • Must complete a satisfactory 10-panel urine drug screen
  • Must hold professional liability insurance and basic health insurance
  • An applicant who has failed any previous nursing courses at any institution is not eligible for admission

Program Cost:

Tuition and fees cost $344 per semester hour. The cost of books and supplies is not included.

Tennessee Tech University

The School of Nursing at Tennessee Tech University offers a fully online RN-to-BSN p seeking their Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The University awards credit for more than half of the upper division nursing courses to eligible RN-BSN students. This award is made available through the Tennessee Mobility Act. Students may obtain experiential learning credit through community health and leadership/management nursing courses. Students may be required to complete additional general education coursework to make up for deficiencies in the ASN program – depending on where the associate degree was completed. An individualized curricular plan will be developed for each student based on a review of the educational background and experience. The RN to BSN requires completion of 30 hours of online nursing credit through TNTech. RNs will be awarded 32 hours of nursing through the ASN program. A total of 58 general education credits is required for the BSN. Some of the courses may be completed at the University. New students are admitted in the Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters.

Program Outline

Credits: 30
Duration: 12 months
Method of instruction: Online

Course titles:

General education and transfer courses:  Human Anatomy and Physiology I, Human Anatomy and Physiology II, Microbiology, Higher Math, English Composition I, English Composition II, Literature, Fundamentals of Nursing and Lab, Medical Surgical Nursing and Lab, Medical Surgical Nursing II and Lab, Women’s Health and Perinatal Nursing, Nursing Care of Children and Lab

Core courses – Health Assessment and Promotion, Bridging to Professional Nursing Practice, Pathophysiological Process,  Research in Health Care, Leadership and Management Lab, Survey of Pharmacology Aspects, Health Care of Communities and Lab

Admission criteria:

  • Must apply for admission to TTech
  • Submit a completed RN to BSN application online
  • Must hold a current unencumbered U.S. RN license
  • Must have an overall GPA of 2.5 before applying to the program
  • Must have at least 32 hours of transferable nursing credits and 45 hours of general education credits
  • Must be in good health as evidence by a physical exam report
  • Must have current American Heart Association Healthcare Provider BLS training
  • Must have current immunizations, titers and tuberculosis screening
  • Must obtain national criminal background clearance
  • Must complete a satisfactory 10-panel urine drug screen
  • Must maintain basic health insurance throughout the program

Program Cost:

Tuition costs $5,415 per semester for in-state residents. Financial aid is available for eligible students.

The University of Tennessee Knoxville

The RN to BSN program at the University of Tennessee Knoxville is designed for registered nurses who already hold an associate’s degree or diploma in nursing. The program is delivered fully online to make the BSN accessible to working nurses. Clinical requirements can be completed virtually or close to home. Students will learn from the school’s dedicated and experienced online faculty. Advisors and support staff are always within reach. An applicant who has completed the ADN degree from any Tennessee Board of Regents institution will have already met the general education requirements for the BSN degree. There may be additional requirements for graduates from other systems and those with a nursing diploma. New students are admitted in the fall or spring semesters. Full-time and part-time options are available.

Program Outline

Credits: 34 credits
Duration: 12 months
Method of instruction: Online

Course titles:

Prerequisites: Human Anatomy and Physiology I w/Lab, Human Anatomy and Physiology II with Lab, Microbiology with Lab, Physiology and Pathophysiology with Lab, College Algebra, English Comp I, English Comp II, General Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Statistics, Introduction to Sociology, American History I, American History II, Introduction to Philosophy

Core courses – Professional Practice and Role Development, Transcultural Nursing for the RN, Pathophysiology for the RN, Health Assessment for the RN, Healthcare Informatics, Population Health and Global Health Perspectives for the RN, Pharmacotherapeutics for the RN, Evidence-Based Practice and Nursing Research, Nursing Leadership and Management Dimensions, Portfolio Development for the RN

Admission criteria:

  • Must have an associate degree or diploma in nursing
  • Must be licensed or in progress to be licensed as a registered nurse
  • Must have a minimum of 63 credit hours eligible for transfer to UT
  • Must meet the state-wide US history requirement for a bachelor’s degree – either one unit at the high school level or 6 credit hours at the college level
  • Submit an application to the nursing program along with the application fee
  • Provide official transcripts from all institutions attended and a copy of high school/GED transcript
  • Must pass a national criminal check and drug screen

Program Cost:

Tuition and fees cost $9,333 in the fall semester (12 credit hours) and $10,233 in the spring (17 credit hours). Financial aid is available for eligible students.

East Tennessee State University

The BSN completion program offered by East Tennessee State University features 100 percent online courses. Students may be required to complete a 60-hour leadership clinical experience. The clinical must be completed with an established preceptor or mentor. It comprises of two parts – a Change Project and Clinical. Working RNs may receive credit for the clinical hours after successful completion of the RN-BSN essentials checklist. The Practicum can be taken in conjunction with other RN to BSN nursing courses or by itself. All general education requirements may be taken before, during, of after completing nursing courses.

Program Outline

Credits: 30 credits
Duration: 12 months
Method of instruction: Online

Course titles:

Prerequisites: Human Anatomy and Physiology I, Human Anatomy and Physiology II, Microbiology, Physiology and Pathophysiology with Lab, College Algebra, English Comp I, English Comp II, General Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Statistics, Introduction to Sociology, American History I, American History II, Introduction to Philosophy

Core courses – Health Assessment, Pathophysiology, Pharmacology, Professional Nursing Practice, Population, Community, and Public Health, Health Promotion and Research, Health Care Systems and Informatics, Leadership and Professionalism, RN Practicum

Admission criteria:

  • Must be fully admitted to ETSU
  • Must be in process or have completed ETSU general education courses including the four nursing prerequisite courses
  • Applicants with a completed bachelor’s degree are exempt from taking general education requirements
  • Must have a minimum cumulative college GPA of 3.0 as computed by ETSU
  • Must apply to the College of Nursing using NursingCAS
  • Must submit official transcripts from all higher education institutions to CAS
  •  Must submit proof of satisfactory health examination
  • Must have current American Heart Association Healthcare Provider BLS training
  • Must submit document of current immunization
  • Must obtain national criminal background clearance and urine drug screen
  • Must hold professional liability insurance and basic health insurance

Program Cost:

Tuition and fees cost $4,975 per semester for in-state students. The cost of books and supplies is not included.

  • Website: https://www.etsu.edu/
  • Address: 365 Stout Drive | PO Box 70617, Johnson City, TN 37614
  • Phone: 423-439-4578

South College

The online RN to BSN program at South College is designed for registered nurses to advance their education and quality for leadership and management positions. The 100% online asynchronous degree program offers a convenient option for RNs who need to balance work with their educational goals. There will be an emphasis on critical thinking, evidence-based care, research, and leadership skills. It will also cover training in specialized fields like informatics and community nursing. The clinical requirement may be completed through virtual laboratory and clinical experiences in community-based facilities close to students’ home. Online delivery of content is best for students who are motivated, disciplined, structured, and committed to learning. There will be online discussion forums for students to ask questions, find solutions, and discuss alternatives with instructors and classmates.

Program Outline

Credits: 32 credits
Duration: 12 months
Method of instruction: Online

Course titles:

Prerequisites: Human Anatomy and Physiology I, Human Anatomy and Physiology II, Microbiology, Physiology and Pathophysiology with Lab, College Algebra, English Comp I, English Comp II, General Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Statistics, Introduction to Sociology, American History I, American History II, Introduction to Philosophy

Core courses – Professionalism, Gerontological Nursing Concepts, Pharmacology, Health Assessment, Health Assessment Lab, Nursing Research, Community Health Nursing, Community Health Nursing Clinical, Leadership and Management, Issues in Nursing and Healthcare, Nursing Informatics, Grief/Loss

Admission criteria:

  • Must be fully admitted to South College
  • Must have completed the required general education courses and prerequisite nursing courses
  • Must apply for admission to the nursing program
  • Must have a minimum cumulative college GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale
  • Must submit official transcripts from all higher education institutions
  • Must be in good physical and mental health
  • Must have current American Heart Association Healthcare Provider BLS training
  • Must submit document of current immunization
  • Must obtain national criminal background clearance and urine drug screen
  • Must hold professional liability insurance and basic health insurance

Program Cost:

Tuition and fees cost $3,200 per semester students completing 6 to 9 credit hours. The rate per credit hour is $310. The cost of books and supplies is not included.

Union University

The online RN to BSN program at Union University is open to registered nurses with a diploma or associate degree. It gives them the opportunity to earn a BSN degree in a flexible and convenient format. The curriculum is designed improve students’ knowledge, leadership skills, and professional opportunities. The general education requirements may be completed through traditional classes. Students nationwide may complete the program and earn the BSN degree through online E-Campus. The program admits new students in the Fall and Spring semesters. Students must complete an orientation before beginning the nursing curriculum.

Program Outline

Credits: 31 credits
Duration: 18 months
Method of instruction: Online

Course titles:

Prerequisites: Human Anatomy and Physiology I, Human Anatomy and Physiology II, Microbiology, Christian Studies, Pathophysiology, Statistics, World Civilization, Literature, Electives

Core courses – Health Assessment, Research in Nursing, Legal and Ethical Aspects of Nursing, Survey of Technology in Nursing, Pharmacology, Issues in Nursing, Leadership in Nursing, Community Nursing, Capstone, Electives

Admission criteria:

  • Must complete the Union University College of Nursing Supplemental and NursingCAS applications – do not apply to the University directly
  • Must read and sign the Community Values Statement and Standards of Admissions – submit to the College of Nursing Admissions.
  • Must pay the non-refundable application fee of $50 – online or via check or money order
  • Must request and submit official transcripts from ALL colleges attended
  • Must have a minimum cumulative college GPA of 2.8 for the last 60 hours
  • Must have an current unencumbered RN license in state of residence
  • Must have current CPR certification
  • Must complete the physical exam form and immunization record
  • Must obtain a clear urine drug screen
  • Must obtain a clear criminal background check

Program Cost:

Tuition and fees cost $520 per credit hour. The estimated total cost is $15,600 based on 30 total credits over the fall, spring, and summer semesters.

  • Website: https://www.uu.edu/
  • Address: 205 Indian Lake Blvd., Hendersonville, TN 37075
  • Phone: 615-447-2500

Tennessee Wesleyan University

TWU Fort Sanders Nursing Department RN-BSN degree program gives registered nurses the opportunity to complete a BSN degree and advance their careers. The program is fully-online and is designed to be completed in just one year. It is tailored to meet the needs of working registered nurses through flexible course schedules. The program is delivered through the easy-to-use online learning platform (LAMP powered by SAKAI). The program requires completion of a clinical project, which can be completed near the student’s home with no clocked clinical hours. RNs can challenge up to 12 credit hours through proficiency testing (Health Assessment, Pharmacology, and Advanced Nursing).

Program Outline

Credits: 33 credits
Duration: 12 months
Method of instruction: Online

Course titles:

Prerequisites: English Composition I, Statistics, Psychology, US History I, Philosophy, Microbiology with Lab, Nutrition, Chemistry with Lab, Anatomy and Physiology I, Anatomy and Physiology II

Core courses – Transition to Professional Nursing, Pharmacology, Health Assessment, Research in Nursing, Community Health Nursing, Professional Studies, Advanced Nursing, Leadership/Management, Nursing Synthesis

Admission criteria:

  • Must complete an online application
  • Must submit official transcripts from all institutions attended
  • Must have a minimum cumulative college GPA of 2.75
  • Must have a current, unrestricted RN license prior to the start of the second semester
  • Must schedule and attend a one-on-one appointment to review previous coursework and develop an individualized curriculum plan
  • Must have current CPR certification
  • Must complete the physical exam form and immunization record
  • Must obtain a clear urine drug screen
  • Must obtain a clear criminal background check

Program Cost:

Tuition and fees cost $325 per credit hour or $300 per credit hour for Covenant Health employees. Students are eligible for all federal and state aid including, HOPE, Pell, and student loans.

Baptist Health Sciences University

Baptist Health Sciences University offers a RN to BSN completion degree program entirely online for students to continue their education in a way that fits their lifestyle. Students have the opportunity to develop a personalized plan to complete the degree requirements at their own pace. The program is open to registered nurses who have completed an associate degree or diploma in nursing. Graduates who are awaiting licensure as a registered nurse may also apply to the program. Upon completion of the program, students will be prepared to provide comprehensive direct and indirect patient-centered care for diverse populations, promote quality and safety, and use research to guide evidence-based practice.

Program Outline

Credits: 31 credits
Duration: 12 months
Method of instruction: Online

Course titles:

Prerequisites: Human Anatomy and Physiology I, Human Anatomy and Physiology II, Microbiology, Pathophysiology, Statistics, English Composition I, English Composition II, College Algebra, General Psychology, Religion Elective, Sociology Elective

Core courses – Transition to Professional Nursing, Pharmacology, Health Assessment, Introduction to Nursing Informatics, Nursing Research in Evidence-Based Practice, Population Health, Perspectives of Healthy Aging, Professional Nursing Role/Quality Care and Patient Safety

Admission criteria:

  • Must have graduated from an accredited nursing program
  • Must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 on all college work
  • Must hold an active, unencumbered RN license or be eligible to apply for licensure as a registered nurse
  • Must comply with citizenship/residency requirement for all applicants
  • Must submit an application for admission through NursingCAS

Program Cost:

The estimated total cost is $15,000 based on nursing classes only.