Nursing - RN to BSN Online

About the Program

The Southwest Minnesota State University RN to BSN Program (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) is an accredited baccalaureate nursing program with a framework of science and liberal arts plus specialized courses in leadership and management, healthcare delivery systems and informatics, community and public health nursing, nursing research, and evidence based practice. Throughout the curriculum, aspects of rural nursing flow through the course content. The RN students come to the program with real-world experiences and abilities that enhance their learning in and out of the classroom. BSN graduates emerge as nurse generalists with a strong foundation for developing specialized clinical practice and other advanced practice roles, functioning effectively in complex environments; demonstrating critical thinking and flexibility; and translating and applying knowledge to enhance patient care quality and safety.

Admission Requirements

Transfer Students ONLY

The RN to BSN program requires:

Undergraduate Nursing GPA of 2.30 or above;
Current, unencumbered RN License (Associate Degree students may apply during their nursing program, with acceptance in the program contingent upon successful completion of the NCLEX-RN exam and nursing licensure.)

The RN to BSN Program is accredited through the Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Admission Process

Cost & Financial Aid

Online tuition rates are affordable and banded for full time student enrollments.
SMSU offers in-state tuition to nearly everyone. No out-state rates. Reciprocity rates may apply.
U.S. Citizens & eligible noncitizens can apply for federal aid with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Minnesota residents completing the FAFSA will also be considered for Minnesota State Grant and Federal Direct loan funds as well.
SMSU offers a variety of Scholarships that students can apply for!
Return on investment! SMSU graduates have a 99% Employment Rate within 6 months of graduation!

Careers In Nursing

BSN graduates emerge as nurse generalists with a strong foundation for developing specialized clinical practice and other advanced practice roles, functioning effectively in complex environments; demonstrating critical thinking and flexibility; and translating and applying knowledge to enhance patient care quality and safety. Graduates in the BSN program will be able to:

Examine the Scope and Standards of Practice and the Standards of Professional Performance
Construct an appreciation of cultural diversity through cultural assessment.
Demonstrate skills and knowledge of health assessment through a comprehensive health assessment
Integrate awareness of issues related to chronic illness in rural settings and apply nursing process to meet diverse and unique needs of individuals and families
Utilize evidence based resources in the community assessment process and propose patient-centered health teaching interventions
Demonstrate the ability to apply scientific method to a public health concern
Analyze evidence related to pathophysiology to promote patient safety and quality outcomes
Evaluate evidence based practices for integration into nursing practice
Apply theory, while critically evaluating the context of rural healthcare settings and influences on rural health disparities, in order to address health of the rural population.
Apply theory, research findings, clinical reasoning, and evidence to address common situations in quality improvement leadership.
Demonstrate collaboration as a healthcare team member through the formulation of connection with community health agencies and nurse leaders
Apply theory, research findings, and evidence to address common situations in health care system leadership
Combine the knowledge, skills, and attitudes of the BSN nurse through community health and nurse leadership precepted opportunities