NursingSchoolHub ranked the RN to BSN program No. 21 on its list of Top 25 Online RN to BSN Programs 2019. (Image courtesy of UMSL Marketing and Communications graphic design)
There’s a certain satisfaction in the parallel between the University of Missouri–St. Louis College of Nursing‘s RN to BSN’s history – 25-plus years strong – and its recognition as a Top 25 program.
Last week, NursingSchoolHub ranked UMSL’s program No. 21 on its list of Top 25 Online RN to BSN Programs 2019. In recognizing the strength of nursing’s online degree, the site was in good company. Recently, Value Colleges named the program No. 15 and Top RN to BSN ranked it No. 35.
In addition, U.S. News & World Report ranked UMSL’s online bachelor’s No. 1 in Missouri and No. 23 nationally in 2018.
While evaluating programs, NursingSchoolHub looked at cost, student reviews and accreditation. It noted UMSL’s Higher Learning Commission credential, the program’s “flexible” and “comprehensive” approach to nurse education and the range of skills taught, which run the gamut from evidence-based practice to leadership to research and beyond.
The RN to BSN program serves RNs with two-year degrees, and the flexible structure allows working nurses to complete their BSNs in as few as five semesters. Justine Patterson, academic advisor for clinical BSN students, explained that there are many reasons to attain the degree including that BSN-credentialed nurses make fewer mistakes. They are prepared for graduate-level nursing study such as the MSN, DNP and PhD and are qualified to work at magnet-status hospitals, an American Nurses Credentialing Center certification that sets standards for superior nursing care.
Upon hearing of the new accolades, College of Nursing Dean Susan Dean-Baar was proud of the college and faculty involved.
“The consistent quality of our rankings acknowledges that, with the RN to BSN program, we’ve created a rigorous and affordable option for working professionals who’d like to take the next step toward bettering the quality of their care and careers,” Dean-Baar said. “We’re honored to help fill the national nursing shortage, and our graduates play key roles in the futures of local and national health care.”
