Advance Your Nursing Career at Avila University
Earn your BSN while continuing to work.
Avila University’s RN to BSN program is designed for working registered nurses who want to take the next step in their career. With accelerated 8-week courses, part-time study options, and mostly online coursework, you can earn your Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) while continuing to work. This flexible format makes it easier than ever to build your clinical skills and leadership expertise on your schedule.
Why Choose Avila?
- Accelerated 8-week courses — finish in as little as one year with eligible transfer credits
- Part-time options to fit your schedule and learning style
- Mostly online coursework for maximum flexibility
- Career advancement through enhanced clinical skills and leadership preparation
- Qualify for career advancement opportunities in healthcare
At Avila, we understand that nurses are already managing demanding work and personal lives. That’s why our RN to BSN program is built to support your goals while giving you the flexibility you need. Whether you’re pursuing leadership opportunities, planning for graduate school, or simply looking to deepen your impact on patient care, our program is designed with your future in mind.
Take the next step in your nursing journey.
Avila’s RN-BSN program helps you build on your experience, meet the growing demand for BSN-prepared nurses, and open doors to new opportunities—all while balancing work, life, and learning.
Top Online
RN-to-BSN Program
Most Affordable Online Program
100% online
nursing degree
Earn your BSN
degree in 1 year
Best Online
RN to BSN Programs
No out-of-state tuition
Admission Criteria
- Be a diploma nurse OR have an Associate’s Degree in Nursing from a regionally accredited institution
- Minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.5
- Obtain a ‘C’ or above in all prerequisite courses
- Be eligible for RN licensure in your state of residence
- If you do not currently have a license:
- You must obtain RN licensure within the first 8 weeks of starting nursing core courses
- License verification will be conducted. If we cannot locate your license online, you may need to upload a PDF. The procedure usually incurs no cost.
- Complete the Avila University admission process.
Prerequisites
- Microbiology with lab
- Anatomy & Physiology with lab
- Statistics (Elementary or Social Stats)
- General Psychology
- Lifespan Development
- Nutrition
* some may also count towards University core
Nursing Core Courses (30 Credit Hours)
| Course Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|
| Pathophysiology | 3 |
| Pharmacology (students can test out) | 3 |
| Health Assessment (students can test out) | 3 |
| Foundations of Evidence-Based Practice | 3 |
| Healthcare Informatics | 3 |
| Population-Based Health Concepts | 3 |
| Experiential Learning I (clinical experience) | 1 |
| Leadership and Management | 3 |
| Experiential Learning II (clinical experience) | 1 |
| Sustainability in Healthcare | 3 |
| Healthcare Policy and Managed Care | 3 |
| Experiential Learning III (clinical experience) | 1 |
| Total | 30 |
University Core Requirements
- Natural Science with lab
- Humanities (Art, Music, or Theater)
- History
- Literature
- Religious Studies
- Philosophy (usually includes Ethics)
- Interdisciplinary Studies (2 courses; one may be RS/IS/PH/IS)
Patterson Nursing Scholarship
Your Nursing Degree. Fully Funded.
Avila University’s Patterson Scholar Program provides full tuition coverage for eligible nursing students committed to serving rural communities. Accepting the program and meeting the requirements means this life-changing opportunity can help you graduate debt-free while making a meaningful impact .
Scholarship Highlights
- Full tuition support
- Serve 2 years in a rural area as noted by the Patterson Foundation
contact
Contact
Trisha Phipps, PhD, MSN, RN, Program Director, Distance Learning in Nursing
P: (816) 501 – 3673 / E: trisha.phipps
FAQs
- Career Advancement
Many healthcare organizations now prefer or require BSN-prepared nurses for leadership, management, and specialized roles. A BSN opens doors to promotions and higher-level positions. - Higher Earning Potential
Nurses with a BSN often earn more than those with an associate degree, making it a smart investment in your future. - Expanded Knowledge and Skills
The BSN curriculum includes courses in leadership, research, community health, and evidence-based practice—skills that enhance patient care and professional confidence. - Pathway to Advanced Degrees
A BSN is the foundation for pursuing graduate programs such as MSN, NP, or DNP, enabling you to become an advanced practice nurse or nurse educator. - Improved Patient Outcomes
Studies show that BSN-prepared nurses contribute to better patient safety and quality of care, aligning with the Institute of Medicine’s recommendations. - Flexibility and Accessibility
Many RN-BSN programs are offered online, allowing you to balance work, family, and education without putting your career on hold. - Professional Recognition
Earning a BSN demonstrates commitment to excellence and lifelong learning, enhancing your credibility and respect within the profession.
At Avila the RN-BSN program can be completed in 12–24 months, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time and number of completed pre-requisite courses.
Our RN-BSN program is offered fully online for flexibility, allowing you to balance work, family, and school commitments.
- Current, unencumbered RN license
- Associate degree or diploma in nursing from an accredited institution
- Minimum GPA of 2.8 required
- Official transcripts from all previous colleges
Yes, the program includes 135 clock hours in community health, healthcare policy, and leadership practicum experiences, which can often be completed in your local area.
Avila will accept up to 60–90 transfer credits, depending on your previous coursework and institution policies.
Typical courses include:
- Nursing Leadership and Management
- Community and Public Health Nursing
- Evidence-Based Practice
- Health Assessment
Yes, students may qualify for federal financial aid, scholarships, and employer tuition reimbursement. Contact our financial aid office for details. Eligible students may also qualify for the Patterson Scholarship.
Complete the online application, submit transcripts, and provide proof of RN licensure. Our admissions team will guide you through the process.
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