Online Versus Traditional RN to BSN Programs: Which Is Better?

In order to decide whether an online or traditional RN to BSN program is better, you'll want to explore the characteristics of these programs.

There are advantages and disadvantages to both online and traditional RN to BSN programs.

For instance, do you prefer to learn from the comfort of your home, or are you interested in interacting with your instructor and classmates in person?

These and other questions can help decide which is best when comparing online vs. in-person RN to BSN programs.

Are Online or In-Person RN to BSN Programs Better?

Let's compare online vs. in-person RN to BSN programs to help you choose which is the best option.

Pros and Cons of Traditional In-Person RN to BSN Programs

A traditional RN to BN program delivers courses on campus via in-person instruction. Here are some pros and cons of these programs.

Pros of Traditional RN to BSN Programs

Benefits of attending a traditional RN to BSN program include:

• real-time interactions and feedback from your instructor
• in-person networking and opportunities to meet up with classmates outside of the classroom
• access to student services on the campus like tutoring, study groups, writing labs, social organizations, and career services

If you're a student who enjoys face-to-face interactions with your instructor and classmates and prefers to take part in campus activities, a traditional RN to BSN program might be the right choice.

Cons of Traditional RN to BSN Programs

Some downsides of enrolling in a traditional RN to BSN program include:

• synchronous in-person class schedules that require specific meeting dates and times with little flexibility
• regular commutes to the campus for in-person classes

As a registered nurse with a busy work schedule, it could be time-consuming and expensive to travel to the campus for class.

Pros and Cons of Online RN to BSN Programs

An online RN to BSN program enables students to attend classes and access all course materials without visiting the campus. Explore the pros and cons of these programs.

Pros of Online RN to BSN Programs

Benefits of enrolling in an online RN to BSN program include:

• attending classes and accessing course materials from anywhere with an Internet connection
• flexible scheduling that allows students to learn and study whenever most convenient
• no commute-to-campus requirements

The ability to access courses from any location at any time makes online learning appealing to RNs who need flexible scheduling. No campus commute requirements can help save money.

Cons of Online RN to BSN Programs

A few cons of enrolling in an online RN to BSN program include:

• feelings of isolation from the instructor and classmates
• the lack of immediate feedback to aid in understanding course concepts
• a need for self-motivation and technological proficiency

Students who learn better in live settings, struggle with procrastination or have technological limitations might have a difficult time in online RN to BSN programs.

Is Online Nursing Harder Than In-Person?

When comparing online vs. in-person RN to BSN programs, you'll notice that they are not much different. This means determining which is harder relies on your personal preferences.

Curriculum

Most online and traditional RN to BSN programs deliver similar courses. Students typically complete general education courses prior to enrollment and then finish nursing courses that focus on:

• nursing management and leadership
• healthcare informatics
• public health nursing
• research in nursing
• health promotion across the lifespan
• professionalism in nursing
• healthcare systems, policies, and trends

Some online and traditional programs include electives that might be either optional or required.

Clinical Requirements

Depending on the program you choose, you may or may not need to take part in clinical experiences.

It's common for traditional programs to require students to take part in clinical experiences. However, some might be available that don't have this requirement.

Some online programs require clinical experiences while others allow students to substitute their on-the-job hours or online clinical courses for clinical experience hours.

To ensure you know your online or traditional program's clinical requirements, be sure to contact your nursing program for more information.

Is an Online Nursing Degree Credible?

Yes, most online nursing degrees are credible. In fact, many programs ensure the same faculty members and course materials are used for online and in-person students.

A great way to ensure that the online program you're considering is credible is to confirm that it is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the state's nursing board.

Some students worry that upon graduating their diploma will read 'online,' indicating that their degree is not on the same level as students earning the traditional BSN.

In many cases, 'online' is not included. But even if it is, studies show that more than 80% of executives say online degrees are as credible as traditional degrees.

What Is the Fastest You Can Get a BSN?

The fastest you can earn a BSN depends on the RN to BSN program you choose.

Typically, earning a bachelor's degree requires an additional two years of coursework post-ADN.

However, some online programs allow students to take short courses in an accelerated format so they can graduate in a year or less.

For example, the online RN to BSN from the University of Cincinnati makes it possible to graduate in just two semesters or eight months.

If you'd like to earn a BSN by taking in-person courses, you can find hybrid RN to BSN programs that deliver online and in-person courses and can be completed in 12 months or fewer.

Online Vs. In-Person RN to BSN: Choose Your Program Today

Which is the best type of program when comparing the online vs. in-person RN to BSN degree?

It depends on your personal preferences. Explore their pros and cons and similarities and differences to choose the right program today.