Frequently Asked Questions by Licensed Registered Nurses Who Are Returning To Obtain a BSN Degree

How long is the program?
      How fast can I complete the degree? 
      Can I go part time? 
      Do I need an active RN license to enroll?
      How long is the program?

That depends on two things: 1) how many additional general education courses you  may need in addition to RN-BSN nursing courses; and 2) how many courses you choose to carry each semester. 

How fast can I complete the degree?

Nursing courses can be completed in as little as 16 months, beginning January and completing courses the following May. Summer is included as an academic semester

Can I go part time?

Of course. You can take one course each semester, if you wish, although some courses are only 8-10 weeks, making it possible to take two courses in the semester, one at a time.

Do I need an active RN license to enroll?

Only RNs who are currently licensed in the state of Georgia can enroll. Active RN practice during the last 4 years is expected. However, nurses who have not practiced a minimum of 1000 hours in the last 3 years may enroll upon successful completion of validation exams.  

How many days a week will I be in class?

Each nursing course is typically scheduled one day each week to accommodate working RNs. The number of courses in which you are enrolled will determine how many days each week you are in class.

How are courses scheduled?

Nursing courses are typically taught once weekly Monday-Friday  between 8-5pm. General education courses that most RNs need to complete are regularly taught during the evening hours between 4p-10pm.

Are there weekend options?

The College of Nursing does not currently offer a weekend option for courses. 

Are there evening courses?

General education courses that most RNs need to complete are    
regularly taught during the evening hours between 4p-10pm. There are generally no nursing courses taught in the evening.

Are there any online courses?

The college of nursing does not offer RN-BSN courses that are solely on-line. However, some courses combine on-line with classroom teaching strategies and may have on-line assignments when on-campus attendance is not scheduled.

My previous courses are 10 years old. Will I need to repeat them?

There is no such thing as a course that is too old. You will build on your prelicensure program, rather than repeat it. However, for required courses in which you earned D or F, a repeat of that course will be required.  Official transcripts of each previous college or university attended must be submitted with application for course transfers.

Will I need to take tests to be qualified for enrollment?

Most RNs will qualify for a no-test option for enrollment based on having completed a diploma in nursing or associate degree in nursing at an NLN–accredited school, and by being an actively licensed and practicing nurse.  Students who have been out of the practice environment for 4 years or more, or who have graduated from a non-NLN accredited prelicensure program (including international schools) will be expected to validate nursing