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RN to Bachelor of Science

The College of Nursing offers a convenient, flexible, online way for RNs to take the next step in their learning

A flexible, high quality upper-division program for currently licensed registered nurses culminating in a Bachelor of Science degree

NEW! Accelerated RN-BS Program

Get your BS Degree in Nursing in as little as 16 months!

Accelerated RN-BS Degree Program

The Future of Nursing is Taking Shape Now

Upstate Medical University’s fully online RN to Bachelor of Science program offers an opportunity for currently licensed Registered Nurses with Associate Degrees or diplomas in nursing to expand their horizons in health care.

A Bachelor of Science degree helps prepare Registered Nurses to serve in roles in a wide variety of settings in the healthcare industry. Nurses who are prepared at the Bachelor’s degree level are more well-rounded, poised to function in diverse practice settings, prepared for graduate and advanced practice study and ready to take the next steps in their careers. Research has shown enhanced patient outcomes, as well.

Upstate's fully online RN-to-BS degree program offers flexibility for working nurses, offering both full-time and part-time tracks.

Quick Facts

Tuition

$7,070 - Full Time*
$3,540 - Part Time*

* per year for NYS Residents. Based on SUNY Tuition rates & fees. See Financial Aid for more details

Program Length

16-22 Months - Accelerated

Degree flexibility with full or part-time study

Course Delivery

Online

The fully online RN-to-BS degree program offers flexibility for working nurses, offering both full-time and part-time tracks.

Application Deadline

Spring 2024 Admissions - November 1, 2023
Fall 2024 Admissions - July 1, 2024

About the Program

The Upstate Medical University online RN-to-BS degree program is a flexible, upper-division program for registered nurses currently licensed in New York State with associate degrees or diplomas in nursing. The courses build on the foundation of AAS education to achieve the Essentials of Baccalaureate Education (AACN, 2008).

The RN-to-BS program focuses on theory and application, provides exposure to many areas of nursing, and serves as a foundation for graduate study. It prepares nurses to deliver comprehensive care to patients of all ages in a variety of settings as direct care providers and as nursing leaders.

Full-time students can complete degree requirements in as little as 16 months. Part-time students can complete degree requirements in as little as 22 months.

Courses are offered online, so students can create a schedule that meets their life and lifestyle. Faculty advisors work with students to determine the best program. Upstate’s curriculum will prepare students to lead in a dynamic, information-driven, complex healthcare system.

For students who are not in New York State, please visit the State Licensing Requirements page for information on individual state licensing requirements.

Residency Requirement

A minimum of 30 credit hours earned through Upstate Medical University, online or in person, are required to be awarded the Bachelor of Science degree from Upstate Medical University.

"The Upstate BS program challenged me to think deeper about my ways of teaching, advocating, and leading.  I am inspired to take these skills and use them to better myself and my relationships with patients and coworkers in new and exciting ways."

—Catherine Byrnes, RN, OCN

Program Outcomes

Demand for baccalaureate-prepared nurses continues to grow. A BS degree gives nurses more choices when considering opportunities.

  • Student-centered approach
  • Personalized services with knowledgeable advisors and mentors
  • Undergraduate Academic Success Program to prepare students for the next phase of their career
  • Technology support

Positions

Nurses with BS degrees can seek out opportunities in a variety of positions including:

  • Nurse manager
  • Public health nurse
  • Case manager

Virtual Information Sessions

The Office of Admissions is conducting virtual information sessions for those who are interested in the following College of Nursing programs.

  • RN to Bachelor of Science Program
  • Doctor of Nursing Practice Programs
  • Post Graduate Advanced Certificate

Have Questions

Not sure which track is right for you? Questions about admissions requirements?

Contact the College of Nursing Admissions Counselor:

admiss@upstate.edu

Request Advisement Prospective Students
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