RN to BSN Program
Northern Michigan University provides an excellent framework for registered nurses with diploma or associate degrees to plan a program of study which leads to the bachelor's in nursing (BSN) degree. The RN to BSN program was created specifically for the registered nurse whose career goals will be enhanced through professional study. The program is designed to facilitate either part-time or full-time study. The RN adviser works closely with students to develop a program plan to meet degree requirements and to fit into each student's life.
As contemporary nursing practice has become increasingly complex, challenging the nurse's knowledge, technical competence and interpersonal skills, employers are increasingly requiring a bachelor of science in nursing. In addition to advanced training in the technology and skills required for the BSN, the program prepares students for leadership roles through a strong foundation in the liberal arts. Graduates of the program report that their experience with the NMU nursing program helped them to become better thinkers and communicators. They found greater job satisfaction through sharing these skills with patients and colleagues
Part-time work as an RN is available within walking distance of Northern Michigan University at a regional medical center. Several other local health care agencies also employ students. Flexible scheduling and tuition reimbursement are available at some health care agencies.
To view a short video about the RN-BSN program, please select your media viewer. (Windows Media/Quicktime)
Courses Required for Degree
For students entering the nursing program in fall 2009 or later, click here for program policies and the list of courses, descriptions, credits and sequences required for the RN to BSN degree.
For students entering the nursing program before fall 2009, click here for program policies and the list of courses, descriptions, credits and sequences required for the LPN to BSN degree.
The time required for program completion is dependent upon the number of transfer credits accepted and the number of credits carried each semester. (A minimum of 12 credits is considered a full credit load.) The BSN degree requires 129 semester credits of which 64 academic credits may be transferred from community colleges. This limit does not apply to courses taken at a four-year college or university. There are no time limits on accepting previous college credits.
It is highly recommended that one of the English writing courses be completed before entering nursing courses.
Considerations for Students Entering the Nursing Major
Currently, RNs participate in two clinical courses. NE 431 Management Concepts in Nursing may or may not require a uniform, depending on the area of assignment. NE 421 Community Health Nursing requires a blue skirt or slacks with white blouse/shirt.
It is necessary to have a current TB test, a Rubella immunization or a Rubella titre, a current Tetanus Toxoid immunization, Hepatitis B immunization series and verification of certification in basic CPR before entering the clinic courses. The NMU Health Center can administer these tests and immunizations, or you may make your own arrangements. Your nursing instructor will request verification of tests. Students are also required to meet any health requirements established by clinical resources.
Students must provide their own transportation for clinical assignments. Many of the required nursing courses in the RN to BSN program are scheduled in the afternoon/evening in order to accommodate the adult learner.
Nursing courses may be repeated twice.
Application and Information Packet
RN-BSN Application (please read the admission policies for this program in the link at left and also in the Undergraduate Bulletin)
RN-BSN Information Packet
BSN Undergraduate Handbook
For More Information
LPN and RN to BSN Program Coordinator
School of Nursing
Northern Michigan University
Marquette, MI 49855
906-227-2834
Julie Dobson - jdobson@nmu.edu 906-227-1667
