6 RN to BSN Programs With No Clinicals in 2024
For registered nurses (RNs) seeking to elevate their careers and gain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, there is a convenient alternative – RN to BSN programs that do not require clinicals. These bridge programs cater to the needs of working nurses who wish to advance their education without the time-consuming clinical components. In this article, we will explore six esteemed institutions that offer RN to BSN programs without clinicals, providing detailed insights into each institution’s offerings and the benefits of pursuing a BSN without clinical requirements.
How Can I Skip Clinicals By Enrolling in an RN to BSN Program?
While there are plenty of RN to BSN programs that offer the option to do clinicals, there are plenty that waive this requirement. The reason that some programs are able to do this is that an RN to BSN is a bridge program that is only available to those who have their RN license and have already completed the required clinical hours associated with the NCLEX. Many RN to BSN programs also take advantage of this fact by offering their curriculum fully online, allowing their students to get their BSN in a very short timeline. Below are a few such programs.
1. Western Governors University
Western Governors University is known for its flexible and competency-based approach to education. Their RN to BSN program is entirely online and does not require clinicals, making it an excellent choice for working nurses looking to advance their careers. WGU’s program focuses on essential nursing concepts, evidence-based practice, and healthcare management. It also allows students to progress at their own pace, allowing students to obtain their BSN in as little as 20 months.
Learn more about WGU’s program here.
2. Clarkson College
Clarkson College’s RN to BSN program is designed for RNs seeking to complete their BSN without clinicals. The program takes a comprehensive approach, covering nursing theory, research, community health, and leadership. Students benefit from the institution’s strong emphasis on evidence-based practice and healthcare ethics. The flexible online format allows RNs to balance their current work commitments with their educational goals. Graduates from Clarkson College are well-prepared to pursue various nursing career paths that do not require clinical experience, such as nursing informatics or healthcare administration.
Learn more about Clarkson’s program here.
3. Franklin University
Franklin University is a well-known online school and has a reputation for providing a convenient and affordable pathway for students to advance their education. Their RN to BSN program is specifically designed for working nurses and does not include a clinical requirement. The curriculum covers a wide range of nursing topics, including healthcare ethics, nursing research, and healthcare informatics. The program offers an interactive online learning environment, allowing students to collaborate with peers and experienced faculty. Graduates from Franklin University particularly note the affordability and timeliness of the RN to BSN program — at $298 per credit and a maximum of 128 credits, it’s easy to see why.
Learn more about Franklin’s program here.
4. University of Central Florida
The University of Central Florida offers an online RN to BSN program that does not require clinicals, providing flexibility for RNs seeking to earn their BSN. The program focuses on nursing leadership, research, and healthcare policy. UCF’s commitment to evidence-based practice and healthcare ethics prepares graduates for leadership roles in healthcare settings. The online format allows RNs to balance their work and educational commitments effectively.
Learn more about UCF’s program here.
5. St. Petersburg College
St. Petersburg College provides an RN to BSN program that is an excellent fit for RNs seeking a BSN without clinicals. The program’s curriculum emphasizes community health, nursing research, and healthcare leadership. The institution’s commitment to evidence-based practice and healthcare ethics ensures graduates are well-equipped for various non-clinical nursing roles, such as healthcare administration or education. Though their program is a little longer than most RN to BSN programs (30 credits), you can be sure that you’re covering a diverse range of skills in their curriculum.
Learn more about St. Petersburg College’s program here.
6. University of Texas at Arlington
The University of Texas at Arlington offers an online RN to BSN program that allows RNs to complete their BSN without clinicals. UTA’s program focuses on nursing leadership, healthcare informatics, and healthcare policy. The institution’s dedication to research and healthcare ethics equips graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in non-clinical nursing roles. The online format allows RNs to balance their current work commitments with their educational goals effectively — in as little as 9 months for extra industrious students.
Learn more about UTA’s program here.
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