The overall program cost will depend on how fast an individual finishes the program. The faster the program is completed, the cheaper the overall cost. WGU charges per semester, and individuals taking one class will have very similar costs to those taking three to four courses per term. Cost by the time it takes to complete the program:

• 0.5 years: $4,885
• 1 year: $9,770
• 1.5 years: $14,665
• 2 years: $19,540
• 2.5 years: $24,425
• 3 years: $29,310
• 3.5 years: $34,195
• 4 years: $39,080

How long does it take to complete the program?

The length of the program will be directly related to how many courses a student has to take. To remain in the program, students must complete at least 12 competency units, each with a 6-month term. Each course is typically 3 or 4 units.

How flexible is the program?

Classes are 100% online. There are no mandatory login times for the program as courses are completed based on the student’s schedule and availability. Classes can be accessed via computer, tablet, or smartphone. According to the WGU website, this RN to BSN online bridge program is specifically designed for working registered nurses. They stress that time and experience are considered when determining the individualized program of study. Students with more years of bedside nursing experience can graduate quicker than others, according to their specific algorithms. For students to qualify for the hours based on their experience, they must be employed as a nurse for at least twenty hours per week. Courses in this online program have start dates, assignments, and end examinations. Students will need to be disciplined to complete the requirements, as there is a lack of well-defined structure. Students will be expected to maintain their own accountability throughout the program.

What courses will I have to take?

Individuals must complete the following 23 courses to obtain their BSN degree. Some may be waived through transfer from any previous college experience. Students can transfer up to 90 credit hours. Most individuals take one course at a time, completing it as fast as they can learn the material.

• Interprofessional Communication and Leadership in Healthcare
• Applied Healthcare Statistics
• Composition: Writing with a Strategy
• Anatomy and Physiology I with Lab
• Introduction to Communication: Connecting with Others
• Anatomy and Physiology II with Lab
• Introduction to Psychology
• Global Arts and Humanities
• Introduction to Sociology
• Microbiology with Lab: A Fundamental Approach
• World History: Diverse Cultures and Global Connections
• Human Growth and Development
• Intrapersonal Leadership and Professional Growth
• Scholarship in Nursing Practice
• Pathophysiology
• Information Technology in Nursing Practice
• Organizational Systems and Healthcare Transformation
• Comprehensive Health Assessment
• Global and Population Health
• Emerging Professional Practice
• BSNU Capstone

Is WGU a good RN to BSN program?

The quality of online programs is based on how receptive students are to the coursework and information. Students will get out what they want from the program. However, picking an accredited program is VERY important, and WGU is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Additionally, hospitals and healthcare organizations throughout the country recognize Western Governor University and the BSN they offer online. WGU offers one-on-one academic and personal support on an as-needed basis. Mentorship is considered essential throughout the program. There are two distinct mentor roles, Student Mentors and Course Mentors, which exist at WGU to focus solely on supporting students’ academic success. Other faculty functions, such as curriculum development, grading and assessment, and degree program management, are assigned to other WGU faculty members, each specializing in a specific function. This allows mentors to devote their full attention to students.

What do you need to get into WGU’s program?

In order to apply to WGU’s RN to BSN online bridge program, students must meet a number of requirements. Admission Requirements:

• Possess an associate’s degree or diploma in nursing
• Possess a current, unencumbered registered nurse (RN) license
• Submit a resume
• Be actively working as an RN at the time of application and throughout enrollment in the program
• Submit to a criminal background check through American Databank, California residents are also required to provide proof of current immunizations
• Pay a $65 application fee (waived by signing up for information online or speaking directly to an admission counselor)

Transferring to higher degrees from WGU

While the program at WGU is fully accredited and students will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, students do not earn a traditional GPA like other major universities. This can cause potential problems for nurses interested in earning an advanced practice nursing degree. Western Governors University does offer several online MSN programs, including:

• MSN Nursing Education
• MSN Nursing Leadership
• MSN Nursing Informatics
• MSN Leadership and Management

Students transferring to an MSN program at WGU will not have to worry about a low GPA, as they can automatically enter the program upon successful completion of the online BSN program. It is highly encouraged that students consider their career goals and whether an advanced practice nursing license is in their future before enrolling in WGU’s RN to BSN online bridge program. Most reputable CRNA and NP schools will want a GPA and strongly encourage individuals to obtain their BSN at another online program. Again, this will vary greatly according to the program of study, but it is important to consider as you’re thinking about the next steps in your nursing education. Speaking to an enrollment specialist is important to determine the exact particulars and whether WGU is a good fit.