RN/BSN Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the RN-BSN Pathway?

The RN-BSN pathway is a tool that outlines a prescribed sequence of classes for you to take at your community college to prepare you for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at ASU. The Pathway outlines specific classes that are required for your ASU degree and includes all of the requirements for the Associate of Applied Science in Nursing degree and the necessary grade point average (GPA) for admission into the ASU BSN program.

2. Why should I follow the RN-BSN Pathway?

There are several benefits. Students who complete the RN-BSN Pathway within three years of signing up are guaranteed admission into the BSN degree program at ASU. Pathway students are also locked into a specific tuition cohort while at ASU, which provides predictable limits on tuition increases. Students may apply up to 75 credit hours towards the completion of the BSN degree at ASU.

3. What if I’m on the waiting list for the nursing program at my community college?

The RN-BSN Pathway Program is designed for students who are already in the RN block sequence at their community college. If you are currently on the waiting list for the nursing program, you will be eligible to sign up for the RN-BSN Pathway Program once you begin your coursework in Block 1.

4. Why should I consider pursing a BSN degree?

Students have various reasons for earning a BSN. One reason is to enhance previous knowledge and advance in their careers. Also, many Magnet hospitals prefer or require a baccalaureate prepared nurse. For others, the BSN is the beginning to earning an advanced degree so they can become nurse practitioners, teach, or do research. Finally, research shows more positive patient outcomes associated with higher levels of education.

5. How many years do I spend at the community college?

Students may spend different amounts of time finishing their coursework at the community college; however, to receive the benefits associated with the RN-BSN Pathway Program, you must complete the pathway within three years starting from the time you sign up.

6. How do I know if there will be enough space for me at ASU after I complete the RN-BSN Pathway at my community college?

If you complete all of the coursework on your pathway and meet all other special requirements specified on the pathway document, you are guaranteed admission into the RN-BSN program at ASU. We know you are planning to come to ASU and we will plan appropriately to make certain you are admitted and can begin ASU coursework.

7. Can I transfer to another university besides ASU?

The RN-BSN Pathway is part of an exclusive partnership between your community college and Arizona State University. If you choose to attend a university other than ASU that institution will determine the applicability of your coursework.

8. How does the tuition incentive work?

The Tuition Commitment Program tuition rate is based on the student’s semester of acceptance in the RN-BSN Pathway Program and compliance with the RN-BSN pathway requirements. Please visit http://students.asu.edu/tuition/commitment for more information about how the tuition incentive works.

9. How do I get started?

For more information about RN-BSN Pathway Program, please see a nursing advisor at your community college. It is strongly suggested that you seek academic advisement each semester to ensure that you are staying on track and completing the appropriate courses.

10. When should I start talking to someone at ASU?

Once you are about a year away from transferring to ASU, we suggest that you contact your ASU transfer representative.

11. Why should I choose ASU for an online degree?

ASU makes the online learning experience better, smarter and friendlier. The RN-BSN online program was developed by renowned faculty and is designed to engage students with professors in meaningful ways. The result is that you do not have to relocate to have an outstanding intellectual experience and earn your degree from a top-ranked university.

12. Are there any special issues for military personnel or veterans?

ASU Online programs are designed to meet the needs of military personnel around the world. For more information, please visit the ASU Online website. There are some limitations with veterans benefits related to online programs, so you should consult with your veteran services office for further information.

13. Are there other requirements for the BSN degree?

For details about additional requirements, please refer to the RN-BSN admission application. Students must demonstrate passage on NCLEX-RN and notify the ASU RN-BSN Program Office of NCLEX results within twelve weeks of graduation from the community college.