RN to BS in Nursing

An Online Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree to Help You Make a Difference

Since 1908, our nursing department has helped to develop qualified and successful graduates. And today our nursing program is one of the largest in the state, recognized regionally for its excellence.

At St. Scholastica, we’ve designed a rigorous, yet flexible, online Bachelor of Science degree program with a major in Nursing. Our online advisors will work closely with you to create an individualized program plan that builds upon your previous education and professional experience.

Our 100% online program, allows you to earn a degree from anywhere while collaborating with peers. And, when life happens, our advisors will provide scheduling options to keep you on track for graduation.

Join a community of dedicated nurses prepared to make a difference.

Fast Facts

This nursing program with transfer options offers:

Earn your degree in as little as one year
42 program credits (29 course credits and 13 credits earned for unrestricted RN license)
No statistics requirement, focus on the career knowledge you need to make a difference in patient care
Our curriculum is designed to position you for a BS to DNP program
Population-Based Care class will fulfill eligibility requirements for MN Public Health in Nursing Certification upon graduation
Flexible, 100% online format — study on your schedule with an individualized completion plan
Six start terms per year

Receive Program Info and Financial Aid Options

Detailed program overview
Personalized financial aid
Individual admissions support

Recognized as one of the top nursing schools in the Plains region as well as one of the top private nursing schools in the country.

Nursing Schools Almanac

Meaningful Work Award

Learn how to receive a 10% tuition discount for employees of participating partners.

View MWA Info

Study Buddy Scholarship

Receive a $1,000 scholarship when you and a friend (or a group) enroll.

View Study Buddy Info

Degree Details

Tuition

Tuition: $410/credit*

* Tuition rates are for the 2024-25 academic year. Additional fees and costs for course materials may apply. Total program cost and completion time varies depending on transfer credits and individual program plans. Tuition rates are subject to change. View 2023-24 rates

Program Overview

Our RN to BS in Nursing curriculum is designed to help you:

Improve patient outcomes. For every 10% increase in the number of nurses with BS degrees, hospitals see a 4% decrease in the risk of death.
Enhance your skill set. A BS education improves your skills in health promotion, cultural competence, information technology and holistic nursing intervention.
Expand your career opportunities. Leadership training prepares you for greater responsibility and authority within your clinical setting.
Focus on the needs of vulnerable populations. Our program emphasizes advocacy for rural healthcare and other groups with greater healthcare needs.

Transfer Options

Our program provides you flexibility, allowing you to create an individualized plan. Credits may be gained in a number of ways:

Transfer credits from a previous four-year college/university or community college
CLEP or challenge exams
Prior learning — submit proof of unrestricted RN license
Independent study
Taking courses

What is the Difference Between a BS and a BSN?

A BS is a degree offered by the College as a whole. It offers bachelor’s degrees in a variety of majors, but each program is governed by the school as a whole. In most cases the faculty/administrator in each department has a title such as “director” or “chair.” A “dean” is then over multiple departments.

A BSN is offered by a professional school that is a separate entity unto itself. If the nursing program is part of a larger university, there will be connections between the larger school and the School of Health Professions, but the School of Health Professions will have its own “dean” and more political independence.

Curriculum

Visit our Catalog to view the program, course and degree requirements, and learning outcomes. Be sure to create your course plan in consultation with your advisor.

View Requirements

View Learning Outcomes

Career Outlook

Career Outlook for RNs with a BS in Nursing

The nation’s population is living longer and more active lives, resulting in an increased demand for highly educated nurses. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 6% growth in the nursing field over the next decade. As a working RN, earning your BS in Nursing degree can position you to fill these new jobs and stay competitive in the workplace.

Use your career experience as an RN to make an impact in your healthcare organization and improve patient outcomes as a whole.

Accreditation

The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, the Doctor of Nursing Practice degree program, and post-graduate APRN certificate program at the College of St. Scholastica are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street, NW, Suite 750, Washington DC 20001, 202-887-6791.

Board Approved

The College of St. Scholastica’s pre-licensure degree program, the Bachelor’s to DNP with APRN concentration degree program, and the post-graduate APRN certificate program are approved by the Minnesota Board of Nursing.

Admission Information

Visit our admissions page for information about transcripts, online application, international admissions and financing.

Application Deadlines

Summer: May 2
Summer mid-term: June 20
Fall: Aug. 15
Fall mid-term: Oct. 10
Spring: Dec. 15
Spring mid-term: Feb. 21

Eligibility

New Student

Unrestricted registered nurse license from at least one state; eligibility for licensure in Minnesota
Associate’s degree with a major in nursing from an accredited college
Cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 or higher

Note: Meeting minimum entrance requirements does not guarantee admission.

Returning Students

A returning student is a student who was admitted and enrolled in a program at St. Scholastica but has been absent from the program for at least three continuous semesters, including summer. To return to the same program at St. Scholastica, a returning student must be in good academic standing and must apply for readmission to the College.

Meet Our Faculty

Experienced, Dedicated and Distinguished Educators

Expect to be heard, to be challenged and to be involved. St. Scholastica faculty are world-class scholars and experts in their field who invest in your success. Our values of community, respect, stewardship, hospitality and love of learning reflect our faculty’s commitment to lifting up others and celebrating our common humanity.

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Related Programs

Bachelor of Science Nursing

PBN students working on a patient in the nursing sim lab.