RN to BSN program

The Orvis School of Nursing’s RN to BSN program offers an accessible and affordable pathway for registered nurses across the United States to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree—completely online. Whether you’re a licensed RN or currently enrolled in an associate degree nursing program, this flexible, fully accredited program empowers you to enhance your knowledge, expand your career opportunities, and deepen your impact on patient care—all from the convenience of your home.

Why choose the Orvis RN to BSN program?

• Flexible, 100% online learning. Access high-quality coursework from anywhere in the U.S. Our online format allows you to balance studies with work and personal commitments, making advanced education achievable without relocating or disrupting your schedule.
• Concurrent enrollment option. Actively enrolled in an associate degree nursing program? Through concurrent enrollment, students can work toward their BSN while completing their ADN/AAS. With advisor approval and good academic standing, you can get a head start on your baccalaureate degree, accelerating your path to a more advanced nursing career.
• Affordable and value-driven: Our RN to BSN program offers competitive tuition rates, providing excellent value for a fully accredited, nationally recognized degree without hidden fees.
• Personalized support: At Orvis, we prioritize student success. Our dedicated faculty and support staff are here to guide you through each step, offering personalized assistance to help you reach your academic and career goals.

RN to BSN program highlights

• Expand your clinical and professional skills. The RN to BSN program emphasizes leadership, evidence-based practice, and population health, equipping graduates with skills to take on expanded roles in healthcare.
• Accredited and respected. As part of the University of Nevada, Reno, a Carnegie® R1 research institution with a Community Engaged designation, Orvis School of Nursing offers a degree recognized and respected nationwide. Our program adheres to high academic standards, ensuring you receive a top-tier education.
• Career advancement. Earning your BSN opens doors to a wide range of nursing specialties and leadership roles, strengthening your foundation and positioning you for roles in management, education, and beyond.

Admission requirements for the RN to BSN

To qualify for the RN to BSN program, applicants must:

• Hold a current, unencumbered RN license in the U.S. (unless concurrently enrolled in an ADN program)
• Have completed an ADN/AAS or equivalent from a regionally and nationally accredited school of nursing
• Meet the general admission requirements for the University of Nevada, Reno

University Core Curriculum requirements

To complete the baccalaureate degree, candidates must satisfy all University Core Curriculum Requirements in addition to nursing coursework. Don’t worry — most of these are likely covered through your completed associate degree coursework. If you already hold a bachelor’s degree, Core Curriculum Requirements 1-7 are waived. Orvis recognizes the rigorous training RNs complete. RN to BSN students receive 30 semester credits for their prelicensure requirements through a credit-by-exam portfolio review, which counts toward the University's upper-division and residency credit requirements.

ADN/AS/AAS enrollment option

The RN to BSN concurrent enrollment program allows students to work toward the baccalaureate degree while actively enrolled in an associate degree in nursing (ADN/AAS) program. This option provides a unique opportunity for those in their 3rd or 4th semester of ADN coursework to fast-track their advancement.

Enrollment requirements

• Completion of at least 24 transferable college credits.
• Completion of two semesters of an accredited ADN program.
• Advisor approval confirming good academic standing with no grade less than a “B” in any nursing course.
• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 in all completed coursework.

Enrollment limited to half-time until RN licensure is obtained (NURS 488 requires active RN license).

This pathway allows you to seamlessly transition from an associate degree to a bachelor’s, setting you up for enhanced career prospects upon licensure.