The demand for registered nurses (RNs) who hold a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) is on the rise. Healthcare employers are increasingly preferencing BSN-holders in hiring and promotion decisions. For example, the U.S. Army and Navy have already mandated that all employed RNs hold a BSN. This ensures that their nurses hold a broad skill set and can tackle a wide variety of healthcare issues in their line of work.
The types of BSN program
The standard prelicensure BSN program takes four years to complete. However, students who are already qualified as RNs through an associate’s degree or hospital diploma program can opt instead for an RN-to-BSN completion program. This is becoming a popular option for RNs who wish to stay ahead in their field.
A regular four-year BSN course usually consists of a general education component, alongside a range of advanced medical courses. Teaching is often highly interactive and combined with clinical work and assessment.
RN-to-BSN programs
Existing RNs can use an RN-to-BSN completion program to earn their BSN in as little as two years. Many healthcare providers subsidize the program fees for their employees.
Job prospects
The median salary of North Carolina’s 88,000 RNs is $58,500. However, those holding a BSN degree enjoy higher pay, typically landing in the top quartile of nurses earning $69,000 or more per year. In addition, BSN-holders are more likely to earn promotion into managerial positions.
To help North Carolina’s future RNs discover the state’s array of BSN programs, we’ve compiled a detailed list of them below. You’ll find them organized by major city.