If you're currently an RN, you're well on your way to your BSN. Has your employer mandated that to advance your career you need to complete your BSN? Have you decided to pursue advanced practice? What can Cleveland State University offer the working RN?

Online BSN TRACK

CSU’s School of Nursing can offer the working RN an online schedule to complete the BSN degree. Students are admitted to the nursing program as juniors. The required nursing courses can be completed in three semesters (one year), with credit for nursing experience. Graduates will be able to move immediately into the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program the semester following graduation if they meet the MSN requirements.

The School of Nursing participates in the Northeast Ohio Access in Nursing model. Participation in this articulation model grants college credits to graduates of associate degree and diploma nursing programs. These credits are applied toward to the total number of hours needed to graduate from Cleveland State University with a BSN .

Admission Requirements

1. Admission to CSU and the College of Education.
2. Application to the program received by the School of Nursing by the priority date of March 1st. Applications received after this date will be considered on a space available basis.
3. Completion of all prerequisite courses by Fall semester with no less than a grade of "C".
4. Combined GPA of no less than 2.75 in prerequisite courses.
5. Cumulative GPA of 2.5 or above.
6. Current active Ohio licensure.

Selection Criteria

Admission of students is selective and based on a number of criteria including prerequisite and overall grade point averages and essays. The number of available spaces in the program is limited. The Admission, Progression and Academic Standards Committee looks for applicants with a strong academic record. Students are notified of their acceptance by the end of Spring Semester. Students not admitted due to lack of space or who do not accept an admission slot must reapply. There is no waiting list. Students are accepted into the program in Junior standing.

ESL Students

English as a Second Language (ESL) students are required to contact the English as a Second Language Department to arrange an assessment of their English language skills. The assessment may outline additional coursework that must be completed before admission to the nursing major.

Pre-Admission Advising

All pre-nursing students and applicants must meet with the School of Nursing's Recruiter/Advisor prior to the March 1st application deadline to assess their academic standing, and review course requirements. This assures that applicants will have knowledge of admission criteria prior to the Fall semester for which they are seeking admission. An appointment can be made by calling (216) 687-3810.

Prerequisite Courses

• Anatomy & Physiology I
• Anatomy & Physiology II
• Chemistry I
• Chemistry II
• Microbiology
• English I
• English II
• Psychology
• Computer Competency
• Statistics

Course Sequence

Fall Semester
NUR 341 Professional Life Experience
NUR 340 Stress Frameworks
NUR 345 Computer Competency
NUR 346 Professional Writing/Communication

Spring Semester
NUR 350 Leadership/Management
NUR 360 Nursing Research
NUR 407/8 Health of Home-Dwelling Elders
NUR 409 Home Lab

Summer Semester
NUR 440 Community as Client
NUR 441 Community Lab
NUR 430 Issues and Trends
NUR 460 Role Practicum

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

Why should I come to CSU?
Many general education requirements are offered evenings and weekends.

How long will it take?
The RN/BSN sequence may be completed in one year.

What grade point average (GPA) is required for acceptance?
A minimum GPA of 2.75 is required in prerequisite courses.

How much will it cost? Are there any scholarships?
CSU tuition for 2008-09 is $330 per credit hour. Other expenses for the Nursing program include textbooks, transportation, and parking. Information on financial aid, including scholarships, is available through Campus 411 (216) 687-5411. Many employers have tuition assistance programs, contact your office of Human Resources for details.

When would I start if I were accepted?
RN/BSN students begin Fall semester each year. You may begin non-nursing courses at any time.

What other courses do I have to take?
If you have received an associate's degree along with your nursing diploma, you are well on your way to meeting the general education requirements. These form the liberal arts component of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. Many RN students choose to complete these requirements either before or after the RN/BSN sequence. Either option is acceptable.

Why do I have to take the General Education Requirements?
The GenEd requirements form the liberal arts component of the BSN degree. These courses provide a foundation of knowledge from the natural and behavioral sciences and the humanities which give you the necessary skills to tackle your new role in the reordered and restructured health-care system. It also prepares you to pursue graduate education in nursing or another field.

Who can I contact for further information?
The Recruiter/Advisor is available Monday - Friday from 8:00AM - 5:00PM by calling (216) 687-3810.