B.S. in Nursing for RNs (RN-B.S. Degree)

About the Program

Already have your associate degree in nursing? Looking to further your career with a bachelor's degree to meet the high demand for nurses with that qualification? Our fully accredited bachelor's degree completion program is available online, letting you build on your associate degree at your own pace. You'll be able to create a customized path to success based on your schedule. In addition, a dedicated advisor will work with you from admission to graduation to ensure you meet all the graduation requirements. It’s never been easier to take the next step in your nursing career - take it with NIU!

Program Mode of Delivery

This program is delivered 100% online.

Curriculum

You are required to complete 120 hours of coursework, but great news - transfer credits are accepted , helping you keep your education costs down. 

Transferring Nursing Credits

You can apply 33 credits from your previous nursing education toward your B.S. degree. Only 28 credits in coursework must be taken at NIU ( view course list); the rest may be taken through community college. (You must complete 12 semester hours of nursing credit at NIU with a grade of C or better in order to transfer the credits).

Transferring General Education Credits

You may transfer up to 66 hours of theory coursework and an additional four hours of physical education credit from a community college to apply toward pre-nursing and general education requirements. An unlimited number of hours may be transferred from a four-year institution.

Information about specific course requirements can be found in the NIU course catalog.

Applying to the Program

You're eligible for this program if you:

• Have been admitted to NIU as a regular degree-seeking student.
• Meet one of the following criteria:
  • Graduated from an associate degree or diploma nursing program within the past five years.
  • Practiced as a registered nurse within the past five years.
  • Satisfactorily completed an approved refresher course within the past five years.
• Maintain a minimum cumulative 2.75 GPA.
• Hold an active and unencumbered RN license (or pass NCLEX during your first semester at NIU).

You'll apply as a transfer student. Start your application now.

After you apply, the academic department would like you to submit a copy of your active RN license. 

Faculty

• Alissa Althoff, Ed.D.
• Cathy Carlson, Ph.D.
• Lynn Dykstra
• Kari Hickey, Ph.D.
• Melissa Perian
• Jeanne Sterricker-Rydell
• Cris Sabio, Ph.D.

Why NIU Online?

We know you have responsibilities and commitments. It's just easier if you're able to take classes where you are without the commute. The good news is that with NIU, you're not alone. Your classmates and instructors are available via the same technology that helps deliver your classes. In our classrooms or in your living room, we want you to succeed academically because your future is our focus.

For applicants residing in the U.S.

Term	Deadline
Fall	August 1
Spring	December 1
Summer	May 15

Apply