Major Article

National Survey of RN-to-BSN Programs

Melanie McEwen, PhD, RN, CNE; Mary Joe White, PhD, RN; Bridgette R. Pullis, PhD, RN, CHPN; Susan Krawtz, MSN, RN

  • Journal of Nursing Education
  • July 2012 - Volume 51 · Issue 7: 373-380
  • DOI: 10.3928/01484834-20120509-02
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Abstract

More than 600 RN-to-BSN programs exist in the United States. Little information is available describing many aspects of these programs (e.g., curricula, program length, prerequisites). This study was undertaken to obtain a snapshot of RN-to-BSN education. This review is vital given the rapid growth of these programs and the anticipated increase in number of “completion” students necessary to meet the Institute of Medicine’s goal that 80% of RNs be BSN-prepared by 2020. Data were collected and analyzed within general areas, including background information, curriculum, instructional formats, and evaluation. Findings from the survey can be used by educators to evaluate their RN-to-BSN programs and compare them with other programs. Further, evidence of potential weaknesses were identified, and educators are challenged to ensure that encouraging growth, focusing on flexibility, and making programs more user friendly does not result in inferior education. Rather, academic and programmatic rigor must be maintained.

AUTHORS

Dr. McEwen is Associate Professor, Dr. White is Associate Professor, Dr. Pullis is Assistant Professor, and Ms. Krawtz is Instructor, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston School of Nursing, Houston, Texas.

The authors have disclosed no potential conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise.

Address correspondence to Melanie McEwen, PhD, RN, Associate Professor, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston School of Nursing, 6901 Bertner Avenue, #730, Houston, TX 77030; e-mail: .Melanie.M.McEwen@uth.tmc.edu

doi: 10.3928/01484834-20120509-02

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