Online RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Take your career in nursing further.
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Online Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
UofL's online RN to BSN program is designed for licensed nurses with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or equivalent studies who want to earn their BSN, improve patient outcomes and excel as a leader in the field of nursing.
The RN-BSN online degree provides the flexibility you need to balance working full-time with furthering your nursing education.
In our program, you can develop your expertise in nursing leadership, meet growing employer expectations and expand your ability to work with diverse global populations in a variety of settings – without any campus requirement or set class times.
As a nurse leader in your healthcare organization, your knowledge and skill can make you an essential workforce asset and give you the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in today’s rapidly changing environment.
The baccalaureate degree program in nursing at the University of Louisville is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street, NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791
The School of Nursing at UofL also offers other programs including a master’s degree in nursing leadership.
Earn 30 Tuition-Free Credits
Completion of your Professional Nursing Portfolio can save you up to 30 credit hours in required coursework and up to $11,250 in tuition cost. Learn more about the RN-BSN Professional Nursing Portfolio in the tab below!
Quick Facts
Online Courses
30 hrs Tuition-Free
Prof. Nursing Portfolio
Per Credit Hour
Aug/Oct/Jan/Feb/May/Jun
RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing,
100% Online
The Big Picture
Today’s nurses are expected to do more than deliver excellent patient care – they are called to lead, collaborate and adapt in a continuously evolving healthcare industry. The online RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of Louisville is built with the realities of professional nursing in mind, supporting RNs in Kentucky and beyond who seek to strengthen their clinical reasoning, leadership capability and evidence-based practice without stepping away from their careers.
UofL’s RN-BSN pathway allows you to build on your experience, expand your impact and prepare for the next stage of professional growth in a flexible, supportive online environment.
Online RN-BSN Degree Highlights
- Stepping Stone: Take the next step to becoming a leader in the field of nursing
- Affordable: Save time and money by completing a professional nursing portfolio (30 credit hours tuition-free)
- Practical: Maintain a successful work-life-education balance by taking one course at a time with 8-week terms
- Accelerated: Complete only 31 credit hours (11 courses) to earn your degree—that’s right around 20 months to graduation
- Convenient: Take advantage of the flexibility and convenience of 100% online classes* and 24/7 access to resources and tools
- Supportive: Join a community of learners and instructors who understand your priorities
- Personal: Participate in customized courses with small class sizes and a schedule that fits your needs
- Head-Start: KCTCS and Ivy Tech ADN students can concurrently enroll in UofL's RN-BSN program. If you earned your ADN, you may start in the program prior to obtaining your RN license
- Practicum: Complete the community health leadership project at a site of your choice in your local community*
- Credential Progression: Continue onto a master’s degree (MSN) or doctorate (DNP) at UofL upon earning your RN-BSN, when you’re ready
Student Spotlight
Real Stories from UofL Online RN-BSN Students
Every nurse’s path is different. UofL’s School of Nursing offers an online RN-BSN program built by nurses, for nurses — that gives working nurses the flexibility and support to advance their education while balancing career and family.
Tracy Nordmann
While finishing her RN coursework, Tracy began UofL’s RN-BSN program and created a plan with her advisor that fit her busy life.
Now an oncology nurse, she’s preparing to pursue her nurse practitioner license.
Her advice:
“Take the big leap. Don’t wait any longer to pursue your education further.”
Chasity Eversole
Chasity earned her RN-BSN while working full-time and raising a family. Life had gotten in the way for many years but she set firm goals, focused on what mattered most and found a way to pursue her aspirations with UofL Online.
She credits the program flexibility and supportive faculty for helping her reach her goals.
Her advice:
“You are never too old to start a new adventure. I am 50 years old and I just completed a bachelor's degree; if I can do it, you can do it too.”
Tracy and Chasity are just two of many nurses who’ve advanced their careers through UofL’s RN-BSN online program, proving that determination knows no barriers or schedule. Their drive, focus and resilience are what define our online students, just like you.
Ready to learn, lead and influence change in your community? Let us help you get started!
How to Apply to UofL’s Online RN-BSN Degree
Check out the typical application deadlines for the RN-BSN online degree program at UofL and prepare your application packet according to the requirements outlined below.
Application Deadlines
| Preferred Deadline | Term | Start Date |
|---|---|---|
| August 1 | Fall | August |
| October 1 | Fall II | October |
| December 1 | Spring I | January |
| February 1 | Spring II | Late February |
| April 1 | Summer | May |
| May 1 | Summer | June |
Note: We admit students on a rolling basis. The preferred deadlines help you complete the application process on time, be notified of acceptance and enroll before the term begins. We review applications as they become complete and admit students for a specific term up to the day classes start. We recommend you work on and submit your complete application well in advance of the preferred deadline, as obtaining transcripts and other materials may take more time.
How to Apply to UofL’s Online RN-BSN
Check out the typical application deadlines for the Online RN-BSN degree at UofL and prepare your application packet according to the requirements outlined below.
- Start your application for undergraduate admission
- Submit $30 non-refundable application fee
- Verify your identity - provide ID/documentation as requested
- Complete any checklist items listed on your Application Portal*
- Request official transcripts from all previously attended institutions. Transcripts are only accepted directly from the institution(s) by email: adetran@louisville.edu (recommended) or mail: University of Louisville, Office of Admissions, Dept AO, Louisville, KY 40292
- Create a financial plan
What Are the Online RN-BSN Admission Requirements?
- Associate degree in nursing (ADN)
- Unrestricted RN license or eligibility to take NCLEX
- Cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 on all undergraduate work (on a scale of 4.0)
- Certified criminal background check required before clinical course. Details are available on the School of Nursing website
- The background check costs $50.00. Cost may be subject to change over time.
*Your Application Portal:
Once you have started an undergraduate application, you can check the status and review any additional checklist to-do items. Log in to your application using the email address you used to apply for admission and your password. Your checklist items may include additional materials or documentation that facilitate a smooth admissions process. You will also have access to important contact information and next steps after an admissions decision is made.
Get a head-start on your BSN
ADN grads can join the program prior to obtaining RN licensure. UofL's online RN-BSN program is for students who are already licensed Registered Nurses or for ADN graduates who are eligible to sit for NCLEX. This program does not prepare students for licensure in any state.
Informal Transcripts Review (Pre-evaluation)
Wonder what credits may transfer from your previous program(s) in UofL's RN-BSN Online program? Get a review at uofl.me/pre-eval. Please note that the transcripts submitted for pre-evaluation are not considered official transcripts and will not be used to determine eligibility for admission.
Online RN-BSN Transfer Credit
Students may transfer up to 60 hours from a community college and up to 90 hours from an accredited 4-year college. Transfer applicants must have a minimum college GPA of 2.0 to be admitted in good standing. Complete the credit transfer pre-evaluation to get an idea of how many credits you'll be able to transfer toward your UofL bachelor's degree and feel free to visit our General Transfer Student page for more details.
RN-BSN Concurrent Enrollment Program (Applicants Currently Enrolled in an ADN Program at KCTCS or Ivy Tech)
Students enrolled in the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program at any Kentucky Community and Technical College (KCTC) or Ivy Tech institution are eligible to apply for the RN-BSN Concurrent Enrollment Program (CEP). KCTC and Ivy Tech students working toward their ADN can earn their RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing in less time by taking RN- BSN courses at the University of Louisville (UofL), while they are still enrolled at their home KCTCS or Ivy Tech school. Students admitted into the CEP program will attend UofL as a non-degree seeking (continuing studies) student while completing their ADN.
Once admitted to the RN-BSN Concurrent Enrollment Program, students will adhere to the RN-BSN Program Progression and Retention Policy. Concurrent Enrollment students who graduate from the ADN program and choose to continue in the RN-BSN program need to complete an application to the RN-BSN program.
Once the ADN degree is conferred, CEP students will be admitted as degree-seeking students in the RN-BSN program.
Are You a KCTCS or Ivy Tech Transfer Student?
KCTCS and Ivy Tech nursing students can receive credit for the completion of their Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and begin immediately with online upper-level coursework at UofL. Some general education credits and program requirements may still be necessary to receive a bachelor’s degree from UofL. Visit our KCTCS Transfers Page or General Transfers for more information.
See the UofL Transfer Credit Policy for details.
For more information or guidance on the application and admission process, please contact our online enrollment counselor team today.
How Much It Costs to Earn an Online RN-BSN at UofL
Academic Year Tuition
$375 per credit hour
$250 per credit hour military tuition rate
Please note that other fees apply – check our tuition page for all applicable costs. All online courses are assessed an additional $10/credit hour fee per University of Louisville policies.
This program is a Title IV federal financial aid eligible program. Tuition rate does not include costs associated with a specific course or program, such as textbooks.
Standard and military tuition rates, fees and charges are subject to change and effective on the date enacted. For additional information on educational expenses and the cost of attendance, please visit the Student Financial Aid Office website.
Are You a UofL Health Employee?
Contact your education liaison or HR representative to receive information about tuition remission options.
What You Learn in the Online RN-BSN
UofL’s online RN-BSN program curriculum is designed to build upon your previous knowledge and experience. The program is typically completed within 5 semesters, but 8-week courses and the flexible curriculum allows you to complete the degree at a faster or slower pace, depending on your particular situation. All coursework is delivered 100% online.
To see all available online courses and degree completion requirements, please visit UofL's Academic Catalog page (select Degree Requirements tab).
RN-BSN Leadership Practicum
The Community Leadership Practicum (NURS 476) course requires 84 clinical hours, completed in your local community, unless state nursing board restrictions apply. It enables students to apply their nursing knowledge in a real-world community setting. Through this practicum, students use the insight gained from their coursework to implement primary, secondary and tertiary prevention interventions at the community level.
This experiential learning opportunity allows students to synthesize theory and practice as they develop leadership skills and make a positive impact through community nursing. The practicum provides invaluable hands-on training to enhance students' preparation for leadership roles focused on community health and wellness.
As defined in the RN-BSN Student Handbook, clinical compliance is mandatory before beginning NURS 476. You can access RN-BSN resources, like the Student Handbook and more, on the School of Nursing pages.
Sample RN-BSN Program Plan
Review a sample comprehensive plan that could work for you!
(not an official plan – should only be used as a guide; upon admission into the program, your advisor will work with you to build your actual plan of study customized to your goals and needs)
Fall Start
| Fall | Spring | Summer | Fall | Spring | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | 2nd | 1st | 2nd | 1st | 2nd | 1st | 2nd | 1st | 2nd |
| NURS 381 | NURS 387 | NURS 388 | NURS 383 | NURS 482 | NURS 382 | NURS 385 | NURS 488 | NURS 470 | / |
| NURS 355 (16 week Course) | NURS 476 (16 Week Course) | ||||||||
| 7 Credits | 6 Credits | 6 Credits | 6 Credits | 6 Credits | |||||
Spring Start
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Spring | Summer | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | 2nd | 1st | 2nd | 1st | 2nd | 1st | 2nd | 1st | 2nd |
| NURS 381 | NURS 387 | NURS 482 | NURS 382 | NURS 388 | NURS 383 | NURS 470 | / | NURS 385 | NURS 488 |
| NURS 355 (16 Week Course) | NURS 476 (16 Week Course) | ||||||||
| 7 Credits | 6 Credits | 6 Credits | 6 Credits | 6 Credits | |||||
Start working on your application early and contact us anytime if you have questions or need further guidance.
Online RN-BSN Degree - Professional Nursing Portfolio
Earn 30 Credit Hours Tuition-Free
Upon enrollment into the program, you will be tasked with compiling a Nursing Portfolio that demonstrates your professional training and abilities in one package.
These documents include but are not limited to your professional resume, academic transcripts, community service hours, professional goals, continuing education hours and other accomplishments.
The completed portfolio awards you 30 credit hours tuition-free, which translates to $11,250 in savings and over a year of coursework in time.
You’ll also be equipped with a powerful resource for future job interviews, clinical agency advancement and more.
Start building on your experience and knowledge, step up into leadership roles and amplify your voice in patient care.
Cards Quickstart - ADN to BSN Pathway
What Is the Concurrent Enrollment Option for ADNs at UofL?
Kentucky Community & Technical College System (KCTCS) and Ivy Tech Students working toward their Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) can now earn their RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing in less time by taking RN-BSN courses at the University of Louisville (UofL) while enrolled at their local KCTCS or Ivy Tech school.
Attend UofL as a non-degree seeking (continuing studies) student while completing your ADN. Before you apply, please connect with us to learn more about qualifications, recommendation, application and admission process.
CONNECT WITH US TO GET STARTED
CARDS QUICKSTART PROGRAM BENEFITS
- Enroll in UofL online RN-BSN courses after successfully completing your first semester at your KCTCS or Ivy Tech school.
- Get started on your RN-BSN program before taking the NCLEX (RN license exam)
- Graduate with your BSN, after completing your ADN, in as few as 2 semesters and thus complete your BSN degree quicker than the 2 + 2 model
- Receive a reduced UofL RN-BSN tuition rate of $375 per credit hour
Application Deadlines
| Fall Start | 8/1 or 10/1 |
| Spring Start | 12/1 or 2/1 |
| Summer Start | 4/1 or 5/1 |
Admission Criteria (KCTCS)
- Current enrollment in good standing at KCTCS School
- Successful completion of first ADN semester at KCTCS School
- No prior failures in a nursing course
- 2.0 cumulative GPA
Admission Criteria (Ivy Tech)
- Minimum grade of a B in the first Ivy Tech Nursing Course
- Cumulative GPA of 2.3 - 4.0 on a 4.0 scale GPA. Students with a 2.2 - 2.29 cumulative GPA will be considered on an individual basis.
PATHWAY TO GRADUATION
Students can complete up to 6 of UofL's online RN-BSN courses while still a student in the ADN program at their home school. Total credit hours available in CEP: 19 out of the 31 RN-BSN core courses.
- NURS 381 Foundations for Evidence-based Professional Nursing (note: must be taken first) (3 credit hours)
- NURS 387 Pathophysiology and Pharmacotherapeutics for RNs (4 credit hours)
- NURS 382 Nursing Research for Evidence-based Practice (3 credit hours)
- NURS 383 Case Management for Individuals and Families (3 credit hours)
- NURS 388 Global Health: Disparities and Social Determinants (3 credit hours)
- NURS 482 Health Promotion for Individuals, Families and Communities (3 credit hours)
Sample Concurrent Enrollment Curriculum
| Summer | Fall | Spring | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Concurrent Enrollment | 6-week course NURS 381 | 6-week course NURS 387 | 8-week course NURS 482 | 8-week course NURS 382 | 8-week course NURS 383 | 8-week course NURS 388 |
| Foundations for Evidence-based Professional Nursing (3) | Pathophysiology and pharmacotherapeutics for RNs (4) | Health Promotion for Individuals, Families and Communities (3) | Nursing Research for Evidence-based Practice (3) | Case Management for Individuals and Families (3) | Global Health Disparities and Social Determinants (3) | |
| Summer | Fall | |||||
| Final Coursework at UofL | 6-week course NURS 385
| 6-week course Leadership Project (2) | 16-week course NURS 476 Community Leadership Practicum (2) | 8-week course NURS 470 Community Health Nursing (4) | 16-week course NURS 355 Portfolio (30 credit hours tuition-free) Only offered Fall and Spring | |
| Nursing Leadership and Health Policy (4) | ||||||
Subject to change based on the starting term and course load.
Scholarship Opportunity
Concurrent Enrollment Program (CEP) Scholarship — Designated for CEP students only
Ready to take a step forward toward your next degree and drive change in your profession?
LPN to RN-BSN Pathway
What Is the Concurrent Enrollment Option for LPNs at UofL?
Students who are Licensed Practical Nurses and who have successfully enrolled in their first semester at a Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) or Ivy Tech school, are now eligible to enroll in UofL’s concurrent RN-to-BSN online curriculum, which can help them graduate in as few as three years.
Attend UofL as a visiting student while completing your LPN.
LPN to RN-BSN PROGRAM BENEFITS
- Start on your RN-to-BSN program before taking the NCLEX (RN licensure exam)
- Take advantage of a reduced UofL RN-to-BSN tuition rate of $375 per credit hour
- Gain access to support for financial support through available scholarship and stipend opportunities*
- Enjoy the flexibility and convenience of online classes, making the pathway to a BSN much more accessible for working LPNs
- Get professional guidance through expert mentor support, career center assistance and student success services available through UofL
*Note: Some exceptions may apply and eligibility requirements may vary. Please contact an enrollment counselor to learn more.
KCTCS | IVY Tech |
|---|---|
| Current enrollment in good standing in a KCTCS school | Minimum grade of a “B” in the first Ivy Tech nursing course |
| Successful completion of first ADN semester at KCTCS school | Minimum 2.3 cumulative GPA, on a 4.0 scale (Students with a 2.2-2.29 cumulative GPA will be considered on an individual basis) |
| No prior failures in a nursing course | Unrestricted LPN license |
| 2.0 cumulative GPA | |
| Unrestricted LPN license |
KCTCS LPN-RN-BSN Scholarship Application
Additional Financial Opportunities
- Indiana Work Ready
- Indiana Career Explorer
- CEP Scholarship
- Nurse Corps Loan Repayment
- NLN Education Scholarship Awards
- General School of Nursing Financial Aid & Scholarship Page
- Work Ready Kentucky
APPLICATION DEADLINES AND INFORMATION
| Fall Start (8/1 or 10/1) | 8/1 |
| Spring Start (12/1 or 2/1) | 12/1 |
| Summer Start (4/1 or 5/1) | 4/1 |
Scholarship applications submitted after the priority deadlines will be evaluated and awarded based on the availability of funds.
Before you apply, please connect with us to learn more about qualifications, recommendation, application and admission process. For program-specific questions, contact Chelsey Tingle, LPN-BSN Program Academic Counselor.
Pathway to Graduation
Students can complete up to 6 of UofL's online RN-BSN courses while still a student in the ADN program at their home school. Total credit hours available in CEP: 19 out of the 31 RN-BSN core courses.
- NURS 381 Foundations for Evidence-based Professional Nursing (note: must be taken first) (3 credit hours)
- NURS 387 Pathophysiology and Pharmacotherapeutics for RNs (4 credit hours)
- NURS 382 Nursing Research for Evidence-based Practice (3 credit hours)
- NURS 383 Case Management for Individuals and Families (3 credit hours)
- NURS 388 Global Health: Disparities and Social Determinants (3 credit hours)
- NURS 482 Health Promotion for Individuals, Families and Communities (3 credit hours)
Sample Concurrent Enrollment Curriculum
| Summer | Fall | Spring | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Concurrent Enrollment | 6-week course NURS 381 | 6-week course NURS 387 | 8-week course NURS 482 | 8-week course NURS 382 | 8-week course NURS 383 | 8-week course NURS 388 |
| Foundations for Evidence-based Professional Nursing (3) | Pathophysiology and pharmacotherapeutics for RNs (4) | Health Promotion for Individuals, Families and Communities (3) | Nursing Research for Evidence-based Practice (3) | Case Management for Individuals and Families (3) | Global Health Disparities and Social Determinants (3) | |
| Summer | Fall | |||||
| Final Coursework at UofL | 6-week course NURS 385 Nursing Leadership and Health Policy (4) | 6-week course Leadership Project (2) | 16-week course NURS 476 Community Leadership Practicum (2) | 8-week course NURS 470 Community Health Nursing (4) | 16-week course NURS 355 Portfolio (30 credit hours tuition-free) Only offered Fall and Spring | |
Subject to change based on the starting term and course load.
Ready to advance your education and nursing career? Get started today!
What You Can Do With an Online RN-BSN Degree
Why Do I Need a BSN?
As the healthcare industry grows more complex, employer demand for highly educated registered nurses increases. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) strongly believes that RNs should, at minimum, be prepared with a BSN from an accredited university due to the breadth of nursing expertise gained through the standard BSN curriculum.
UofL’s online RN-BSN degree doesn’t repeat what you learned through your ADN education, but supplements it with more complex, diverse and interdisciplinary coursework to make you a better-rounded healthcare provider.
Our unique online RN-BSN curriculum is designed for nurses who want to expand their ability to work with diverse global populations and develop targeted skills in leadership and management.
With a BSN, you’ll be equipped with the education credentials you need to meet employer demand for RNs with a bachelor’s, as well as pursue advanced nursing roles including: registered hospital nurse, physician’s office nurse, clinical nurse specialist, nurse manager, nurse director, nurse case manager, public health nurse, research nurse and many more.
Registered nurses are one of the most in-demand healthcare professionals, with over 2 million nursing jobs recorded in 2025 and a projected growth of 8% by 2033.
Additionally, the median annual salary for registered nurses is approximately $98,000, well above the national average for all occupations. (Lightcast/BSL.gov data)
“I couldn’t have asked for anything better with this (RN-BSN program), but to be able to bring the knowledge from the classes right to the patient’s bedside."
Daniel Campanelli
Online RN-BSN Graduate
Take the step today to advance your education and lead the nursing workforce of tomorrow!
Who Will Support You in the Online RN-BSN Program?
At UofL, we know online students need robust, proactive support and we built this program to deliver exactly that every step of the way. From your first question through graduation, you’ll be informed, guided and cheered on by a dedicated team invested in your success. Enrollment counselors, program leadership staff, academic advisors and faculty work together to support you at every stage throughout your journey. At UofL, you are never navigating the online degree experience alone.
| Name | Title | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Cassie Thompson | Online Enrollment Counselor | online@louisville.edu | 800-871-8635 |
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Diane Riff | Program Director | diane.riff@louisville.edu |
|
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LAUREN MCCURDY | Senior Academic Counselor | lemccu02@louisville.edu | 502-852-8519 |
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CHELSEY TINGLE | Academic Advisor LPN-BSN | chelsey.tingle.1@louisville.edu | 502-852-6538 |
If this education opportunity matches your needs and goals, contact us today and let us help you get started on the path to success!
What Else Should You Know?
The questions and answers below help you learn more about our program, delivery method, application and admission, internship process and options or how to succeed as an online student at UofL and beyond.
What is the online RN-BSN program?
UofL’s online RN-BSN program is designed for licensed nurses with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or equivalent studies who want to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The program builds on previous nursing knowledge and experience and develops skills in areas such as nursing leadership, evidence-based practice and working with diverse populations.
Is the online RN-BSN program at UofL accredited?
The baccalaureate degree program in nursing at the University of Louisville is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street, NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791. UofL's School of Nursing is also accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) as well as CCNE.
Is the online RN-BSN program 100% online?
Yes. All coursework is delivered 100% online, with no campus requirement or set class times. The Community Leadership Practicum (NURS 476) course requires 84 clinical hours, completed in your local community, unless state nursing board restrictions apply.
How long does the online RN-BSN program take to complete?
The program is typically completed within five semesters, or about 12–18 months for full-time students. The program uses 8-week courses and a flexible curriculum that allows students to complete the degree at a faster or slower pace depending on their situation.
How many credit hours are required for the online RN-BSN
The RN-BSN core consists of 31 credit hours. Students may also need to complete required Cardinal Core general education or elective courses depending on their previous coursework.
Can I complete the RN-BSN while working full time?
Yes. The online RN-BSN program is designed to provide the flexibility needed to balance working full time with furthering your nursing education.
What technology do I need for the online RN-BSN program?
You need access to a computer and the internet. Mac and PC computers are acceptable, and advanced computer skills are not required. The program uses Blackboard for course access and assignments, with UofL Help Desk support available seven days a week.
I am on active duty. Can I take online classes at UofL?
Yes! You can take online classes from anywhere in the world, provided you have consistent Internet access. Our faculty and staff are very supportive of those who serve the country here in U.S. or around the world and work hard to provide all needed learning resources so you can succeed. Please note that the University of Louisville is unable to offer online programs in countries subject to U.S. sanctions or where specific regulatory requirements related to online education cannot be met by UofL. Additionally, access to overseas sites for the RN-BSN practicum placement may not be available.
What are the admission requirements for the online RN-BSN?
Applicants must have an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), an unrestricted RN license or eligibility to take the NCLEX, and a cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least 2.0 on a 4.0 scale. A certified criminal background check is also required before the clinical course.
Can I start the RN-BSN before I have my RN license?
Yes. ADN graduates who are eligible to sit for the NCLEX may begin the program before obtaining their RN license. Students are required to obtain their RN license by the end of their first semester to progress in the program.
When can I start the online RN-BSN program?
The program offers multiple start options each semester. Preferred application deadlines are August 1 and October 1 for fall, December 1 and February 1 for spring, and April 1 and May 1 for summer. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and students may be admitted for a specific term up to the day classes begin.
Can I transfer credits from another school?
Yes. Students must submit transcripts from all undergraduate institutions attended. Upon review, some or all previous credit may be applied toward the degree.
Do my previously earned credits expire?
For licensed RNs, there is no expiration date for previously earned credits.
How does the Professional Nursing Portfolio work?
The Professional Nursing Portfolio is an electronic record of professional documents related to your nursing education, practice and accomplishments. It can include items such as your professional résumé, academic transcripts, community service hours, professional goals and continuing education hours. Completing the portfolio awards up to 30 credit hours tuition-free.
How much can the Professional Nursing Portfolio save me?
The completed portfolio can save up to $11,250 in tuition and more than a year of coursework in time.
How long is this RN-BSN online program?
The RN-BSN online program typically takes full-time students between 5 semesters or 12-18 months, to complete.
How much does the online RN-BSN cost?
Tuition is $375 per credit hour, with a $250 per credit hour military tuition rate. All online courses are assessed an additional $10 per credit hour fee, and other fees may apply. Tuition rates, fees and charges are subject to change.
What additional costs should I expect?
Students are responsible for tuition, fees and books for the 31 core RN-BSN credit hours, as well as any required Cardinal Core general education or elective courses. A $50 criminal background check is also required, although the cost may change over time.
Is financial aid available for the online RN-BSN?
Yes. The online RN-BSN is a Title IV federal financial aid-eligible program.
Does the online RN-BSN require clinicals?
Yes. The RN-BSN requires a Community Health Leadership Practicum (NURS 476) consisting of 84 clinical hours. The practicum can be completed in your local community unless state nursing board restrictions apply. Students must meet clinical compliance requirements before beginning the practicum.
Where can I complete the RN-BSN practicum?
The Community Health Leadership Practicum can be completed in your local community unless state nursing board restrictions apply. Certain states may restrict access to practicums, so students should notify their advisor before relocating while completing the program.
What support is available to online RN-BSN students?
Students have access to enrollment counselors, program leadership staff, academic advisors and faculty throughout their online degree experience.
What can I do with an RN-BSN degree?
The RN-BSN provides additional education in areas including leadership, management, diverse populations and evidence-based practice. Graduates can pursue roles including registered hospital nurse, physician’s office nurse, clinical nurse specialist, nurse manager, nurse director, nurse case manager, public health nurse and research nurse.
Can I continue my education after earning the RN-BSN?
Yes. After earning the RN-BSN, students can continue to a master's degree in nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at UofL.
Is the online RN-BSN program accredited?
Yes. The baccalaureate degree program in nursing at the University of Louisville is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The School of Nursing is also accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) as well as CCNE.
For answers to other questions not covered above and for further assistance, please contact our online enrollment services team at online@louisville.edu or submit an Information Request Form .
If you have all the information needed and are ready to move forward, take the next step to apply.
