RN to BSN Online Program

 

Female nurse in focus, with other nurses in the background blurred.


The Bronson School of Nursing at Western Michigan University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Nursing RN to BSN program, specifically designed to accommodate the needs and schedules of working nurses. 

Job outlook

98%

of College of Health and Human Services graduates working full time have a job related to their degree

—2024-25 Career Outcomes Report

98%

of College of Health and Human Services undergraduate students had instructors who made them excited about learning

—2024-25 Career Outcomes Report

95%

of College of Health and Human Services graduates participated in experience-driven learning

—2024-25 Career Outcomes Report

Pursue a B.S. in Nursing: RN to BSN

The RN to BSN program is designed specifically for licensed registered nurses seeking to advance their education and career opportunities. The curriculum builds upon your existing nursing knowledge while expanding your understanding of leadership, healthcare systems, population health and evidence-based practice. You'll explore the complex factors that influence health outcomes and develop strategies for improving patient care across diverse settings. The fully online format allows you to continue working while completing your degree and connecting what you learn directly to your professional practice. 
 
At WMU's Bronson School of Nursing, you'll strengthen your skills in healthcare policy, quality improvement, community health and professional leadership while learning to evaluate research and implement evidence-based solutions that improve patient outcomes. Designed with working nurses in mind, the flexible program prepares graduates for expanded responsibilities, leadership roles and future graduate study, empowering them to make an even greater impact on the patients, communities and healthcare organizations they serve.
 
Image of five female nursing graduates

Applying to the program

  1. Request an appointment with the RN to BSN academic advisor:  Tracy Corstange (tracy.corstange@wmich.edu) by calling (269) 387-2656 to determine eligibility and to discuss the application process.
  2. Apply to Western Michigan University as a transfer student. Under academics- be sure to select "Online" for campus.
  3. Once admitted to WMU, student applications will be considered for admission to WMU BSON's RN to BSN program.
  4. Students admitted to the RN to BSN program will be sent an admission packet from BSON to their official WMU email address.

Once accepted, contact Tracy Corstange at tracy.corstange@wmich.edu or (269) 387-2656 to map out your program. 

What you'll learn

You'll strengthen your knowledge of nursing leadership, healthcare policy, quality improvement, community and population health and evidence-based practice. Coursework emphasizes critical thinking, professional communication, ethical decision-making and systems-based approaches to care. You'll also learn how to evaluate research, implement best practices and lead initiatives that improve healthcare outcomes. These skills prepare you to take on expanded responsibilities and contribute to the future of the nursing profession.

Where you'll be after graduation

Graduates of the RN to BSN program are prepared to take on expanded professional responsibilities across a variety of healthcare settings. The program helps nurses strengthen their qualifications for leadership, management, community health and specialized nursing roles. Many graduates also continue their education through master's and doctoral programs in nursing and related healthcare disciplines. As healthcare organizations increasingly seek bachelor's-prepared nurses, earning your BSN can help you remain competitive in the profession.

Career pathways

  • Charge Nurse
  • Nurse Manager
  • Community Health Nurse
  • Public Health Nurse
  • Case Manager
  • Clinical Coordinator
  • Healthcare Administrator
  • Graduate Nursing Education

Making the most of your learning experience

The RN to BSN program connects classroom learning to your current nursing practice. Community-based clinical experiences allow you to apply concepts in real-world settings while exploring population health and healthcare systems. Small class sizes encourage meaningful interaction with faculty and peers, creating opportunities for collaboration and professional growth. Throughout the program, you'll gain practical knowledge that can be immediately applied to your work as a registered nurse.

What scholarships are available?

Western Michigan University offers institutional scholarships, grants and financial aid opportunities to help make earning your BSN more affordable. Students may also qualify for scholarship opportunities through the Bronson School of Nursing and the College of Health and Human Services. Financial aid advisors are available to help you identify resources and create a plan that supports your educational goals.

Program outcomes

1. Apply clinical judgment to deliver a person-centered plan of care (AACN Domain 2) 

2. Apply knowledge of nursing and related arts and sciences to guide professional practice (AACN Domains 1, 4, 9) 

3. Participate in activities that promote well-being (AACN Domains 3, 10) 

4. Demonstrate effective communication to enhance health of diverse populations (AACN Domains 3, 6, 8) 

5. Demonstrate advocacy strategies for equitable health outcomes (AACN Domains 3, 9) 

6. Incorporate systems-based knowledge into professional nursing practice (AACN Domains 7, 9) 

7. Demonstrate leadership in professional nursing practice using principles of quality and safety (AACN Domains 5, 7, 9)