RN stethoscope on an intake form

Registered Nurses (RNs) are the core of the healthcare system, but if you see more for your career than where you are presently at and dream of pursuing a future in hospital leadership, advanced clinical roles, or teaching nursing education, an online RN to BSN degree is the ideal next step. 

This degree is designed to streamline your nursing journey, effectively bridging the gap between a bachelor’s and advanced master’s programs. Completing the rigorous coursework is well worth the future opportunities for career advancement and attaining higher-paying salaries faster than other educational paths. 

Explore six advantages of enrolling in the online RN to BSN degree program at Florida National University (FNU).

1. The Direct Path to In-Demand Nursing Roles

For ambitious RNs, advanced degrees like a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) are coveted because of the credentials required for nearly all non-bedside and advanced clinical positions. 

These professional degree programs are now considered standard industry credentials for many of today’s most sought-after positions. Hospitals, clinics, and public health agencies increasingly prefer BSN-prepared nurses for leadership and specialized care roles.

FNU’s online RN to BSN program is designed for working RNs who want to continue their education without stepping away from their jobs. This degree strengthens your foundation in clinical practice, patient advocacy, as well as nursing  leadership and management skills that prepare you for roles such as:

  • Charge Nurse or Nurse Supervisor
  • Public Health Nurse
  • Case Manager
  • School or Community Health Nurse

By completing the program, graduates acquire the expertise and confidence to assume greater responsibility and make a more significant impact in the workplace.

2. A Significant Leap in Earning Power

Nursing remains one of the fastest-growing careers in healthcare. The financial difference in salaries between nursing levels is substantial. The further one moves in their career, the more it shows a commitment and investment in developing education and skills.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), registered nurses earn a median salary of $93,600 per year. In contrast, those with advanced education and leadership roles can earn well over six figures. 

Here’s a breakdown of how advanced nursing education can elevate salary-earning potential:

Education Level Median Annual Salary (May 2024 BLS) Example Roles
ADN (RN) $80,450 (entry-level) Staff Nurse, Clinic RN
BSN (RN) $93,600 (Median RN Wage) Charge Nurse, Public Health Nurse
MSN (RN) $132,050 (Advanced Practice) Nurse Educator, Nurse Leader, Nurse Practitioner

Beyond the salary increase, the degrees help practitioners develop advanced critical thinking and communication skills that can better cultivate their bedside manner and professional practice. Both of these qualities are highly valued by employers when promoting or hiring nurses.

3. Why the BSN Matters in Today’s Healthcare System

Many RNs wonder whether they can skip directly to an MSN. However, the BSN bridges both academic levels, building upon the foundation with more advanced techniques, while staying atop current industry trends and best practices to ensure long-term success in nursing.

  • Eligibility: Accredited universities, including Florida National University, require a BSN for entry into MSN programs.
  • Skill Development: RN to BSN coursework develops leadership, research, and organizational management skills-competencies essential for advanced practice and graduate study.

According to research from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), 72% of employers express a strong preference for BSN-prepared nurses, and nearly 28% require a bachelor’s degree for new hires.

Completing an RN to BSN program keeps nurses competitive as healthcare evolves and educational standards continue to rise.

4. Stability and Demand in Nursing 

During an RN to BSN program, students transition from a clinical focus to a leadership mindset. While general RN employment is projected to grow over the next few years, the demand for nurse educators and high-level managers is even greater, offering career security.

Graduates are particularly sought after in hospitals with Magnet recognition, which emphasize excellence in nursing practice and leadership. If you later choose to advance even further, the degree paves the way for higher-level programs like an RN to MSN or a Doctorate degree.

5. A Flexible Online RN to BSN Nursing Degree for Working Professionals

As a working nurse, successfully pursuing an advanced degree program requires careful balancing of work, family, and school. The good news is that FNU’s online RN to BSN degree caters to full-time nursing professionals..

Program benefits include:

Maximum Flexibility: The coursework is fully online and self-paced, meaning students can manage their studies around shifting schedules and life events.

Accelerated Completion: FNU’s integrated program streamlines the coursework, allowing for progress while minimizing the time spent in school. This level of flexibility ensures that advancing your career doesn’t mean sacrificing your current schedule or job security. 

This level of flexibility ensures that advancing your career doesn’t mean sacrificing your work or personal life. Showing a commitment to earning your degree signals to employers that you are ready for high-level professional responsibilities and management roles.

6. How Long Does It Take to Earn an RN to BSN?

One of the most common questions working nurses ask is how long it will take to earn their RN to BSN degree, and the good news is, it’s much faster than a traditional four-year program.

Because you’ve already completed foundational nursing courses and clinical training as an RN, most accelerated nursing programs can be completed in as little as 12 to 18 months, depending on your previous credits and how many courses you take each term.

Many healthcare employers recognize the value of higher education and may even offer financial assistance or tuition reimbursement for nurses who enroll in RN to BSN programs. That means you can advance your education and career with support from your workplace.

Although it may seem like a significant commitment, the investment is well worth it. The short-term effort of earning an advanced nursing degree leads to long-term rewards and benefits.

Why Choose Florida National University for an RN to MSN Degree?

Florida National University’s online RN to BSN program is more than a credential; it’s a defining step that broadens your opportunities and ability to make a greater impact. 

Don’t just dream of the possibilities; reach your fullest potential by contacting an admissions counselor to start your journey today!