Undergraduate Program

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Major

null Online

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Why This Program?

Advance your RN degree in two years - or less!

In today's health care system, most providers prefer you have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) rather than an Associate's degree. Our online RN to BSN program is a great way to advance your career, maximize your earning potential, and become better at what you do best: helping people!

With eight-week courses and fall, spring, and summer start dates, Briar Cliff's RN- BSN program allows for a seamless transfer of credits allows you to complete your nursing pre-requisite and general education courses from a community college. You can transfer up to 90 credit hours from other institutions. Learn more about our articulation agreements with other colleges, where the curriculum is coordinated for easy transfer.

Tradition of Excellence: Briar Cliff has always been passionate about nursing. Earning your bachelor's degree from our renowned nursing program will also mean that you will be receiving an education from faculty members who are all active in clinical practice and connected to professional nursing organizations.
Easy Transition to Advance Your Career Briar Cliff is the first university in Western Iowa where you can start as an undergraduate or Registered Nurse (RN) and work all the way up Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) all at the same school! Bachelors of Nursing > Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or nurse practitioner > Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

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More About the Program

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is the most desired credential in health care today. Briar Cliff has been creating, educating, and preparing generations of caring and committed nurses.

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), the Post-Graduate APRN Certificate and the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs at Briar Cliff University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. All BCU nursing programs are approved by the Iowa Board of Nursing and meet the state educational requirements for licensure in the state of Iowa.

Completion of the BSN degree following licensure as an RN (RN to BSN program) does not lead to additional licensure.

Program Requirements

Documentation of physical health status must be obtained upon admission to the nursing major. Required immunizations include:
- Hepatitis B vaccination (or signed waiver on file). An annual Mantoux test.
- A second MMR if born after 1957. Proof of Varicella immunity if born after 1965 (either a positive titre or proof of a series of two immunizations and an annual influenza immunization).
- Annual seasonal influenza vaccination.
Students also must maintain basic CPR certification throughout the program. In addition, students must have a criminal background check completed through the vendor selected by the Department of Nursing.
For additional requirements and curriculum information, download the latest University academic catalog.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:Do I qualify for financial aid?
A: U.S. citizens and eligible noncitizens are eligible to apply for Federal Financial Aid through BCU. Degree-seeking students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This one application completes applications for the Iowa Tuition Grant and Federal Direct loan funds as well.

Q: What nursing programs does Briar Cliff University offer?
A: Briar Cliff University was the first college in the area to offer nursing degrees from a bachelor's all the way up to a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).

Q: Can I transfer in nursing courses?
A: YES, all ADN nursing courses will transfer to Briar Cliff, but please contact us for further information.

Q: How can I see if courses I took at another college will transfer to Briar Cliff University?
A: If you send your transcript(s) to the Registrar Office, they will process it and notify you with which courses will transfer to Briar Cliff. They will also communicate with the Nursing Department and a faculty member will contact you to discuss options.

Q: How much does it cost to attend Briar Cliff?
A: Find more information on the cost of attendance for an undergraduate degree online and the Tuition Rates for Participating Health Care Facilities below.

Q: What are the requirements for admission to the RN to BSN program?
A: *2.75 GPA for admission and progression through the program.

*Must have a current, unencumbered RN license. (Associate Degree students may apply in the last semester of their nursing program and any acceptance to the program will be contingent upon successful completion of the NCLEX-RN exam and nursing licensure.)

Q: When should I apply for the RN to BSN program?
A: Prospective students usually apply in the second year of their associate degree in a Nursing program. This allows for a transcript evaluation to be completed and dual advising regarding any other classes that may be transferred in. Practicing RNs may apply any time.

Q: Is the program totally online?
A: Briar Cliff University's RN-BSN program is 100% online.

Q: Is Briar Cliff University's RN to BSN program accredited?
A: Yes, Briar Cliff University's RN-BSN program is accredited by the Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Q: How long will it take me to complete the program and earn my degree?
A: Briar Cliff University's RN to BSN is very flexible. The program can be completed in one to two-plus years based on student preference. It provides students the opportunity to have a work/life balance that supports student success. Students determine the number of credits they take each semester based on their needs.

Q: Is there clinical requirements with the Briar Cliff University's RN to BSN program?
A: Clinical activities will be project based and can be completed in a variety of settings, including the student's own work organization.

Tuition Rates for Participating Health Care Facilities

The following 2024-2025 tuition rates are available for the listed health care facilities:

MercyOne and affiliates
UnityPoint Health and affiliates
Siouxland Community Health Center
Sanford Health and affiliates
Avera Health and affiliates
Spencer Hospital
Seasons Center for Behavioral Health

Special Rate:

Tuition: $330/credit hour
Fees: $42/credit hour

Licensure

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), the Post-Graduate APRN Certificate, and the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs at Briar Cliff University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). All BCU nursing programs are approved by the Iowa Board of Nursing and meet the state educational requirements for licensure in the state of Iowa.

All graduates of our accredited pre-licensure BSN program are eligible to take the national licensing exam (NCLEX) in the state of their choice. Completion of the BSN following licensure as an RN does not lead to additional licensure.
BCU has not made a determination that its MSN and Post-Graduate APRN certificate curricula meet the educational requirements for any other states. Students from other states are encouraged to contact their state licensing boards to determine if the program meets the educational requirements for licensure in that state, by checking e ach state's licensing board.
Completion of the DNP program does not lead to additional licensure.

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Interested in Loan Forgiveness?

You may qualify for loan forgiveness after completing your degree. Below are some resources to learn more.

Health Professional Recruitment Program

Rural Iowa Primary Care Loan Repayment Program

Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program

Student Loan Forgiveness - Federal Student Aid

Career Options

Nursing
Nurse Educator
Nurse Manager / Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) / Direct of Nursing / Nurse Administrator
Case Management Nurse
School Nurse / Travel Nurse / Flight Nurse / Midwife
Forensic Nurse / Insurance Company
Hospice Professional
Nurse Practitioner (MSN) Pathway
Doctor of Nursing (DNP) Pathway

Financial Aid

From scholarships to grants, our team is here to assist students and families in making a Briar Cliff education affordable.

Student Experience

Student educational experience more than just our outstanding programs, it's all the other elements of campus life.

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RN to BSN

Why This Program?

Advance your RN degree in two years - or less!

More About the Program

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