Stephen F. Austin RN to BSN Program

Program Details

DeWitt School of Nursing

The RN to BSN program at SFA offers licensed registered nurses the opportunity to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing online.

Designed for working professionals, the program provides flexibility through asynchronous courses, allowing students to balance their education with work commitments.

Students can finish the program in as little as one year or opt for part-time study over two years.

Accreditation and Recognition

The program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and approved by the Texas Board of Nursing, ensuring a high-quality and reputable nursing education. Graduates meet all requirements to advance their careers in clinical, leadership, or community health roles.

Curriculum Highlights

The 31-credit-hour curriculum builds upon prior associate degree coursework and includes courses such as Pathophysiology, Leadership and Coordination, Nursing Informatics, and Legal and Ethical Issues.

RN-BSN Pathophysiology
This course lays the foundation for understanding the pathophysiological aspects of evidence-based nursing. It integrates core concepts from anatomy, physiology, chemistry, and microbiology to examine alterations in pathophysiology.

RN-BSN Research and Application
This course introduces nursing research concepts, focusing on critiquing studies and applying evidence-based findings to practice. Emphasis is placed on holistic care, addressing the diverse spiritual, socio-economic, and cultural needs of clients.

RN-BSN Care of Community Populations
Students explore health promotion and illness prevention in community settings. The course emphasizes collaboration with interdisciplinary teams and community members to address bioethical issues, resource distribution, and holistic care.

RN-BSN Pharmacology
This course covers foundational pharmacological principles, including medication administration and drug classifications. It builds on prior knowledge to prepare nurses for safe and effective pharmacological care.

RN-BSN Health Assessment
Focusing on clients across the lifespan, this course enhances nursing assessment skills. It emphasizes professional communication, critical thinking, and holistic care for clients with diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.

RN-BSN Leadership and Coordination of Nursing Care
This course emphasizes leadership and management within the interdisciplinary healthcare team. Students apply critical thinking and nursing theories to coordinate care for diverse client groups, utilizing evidence-based practices and legal guidelines.

RN-BSN Transition
Designed for ADN-prepared RNs, this course facilitates the transition to BSN-level practice. It explores nursing history, theory, research, and current healthcare trends affecting the BSN role.

Nursing Informatics
This course focuses on improving nursing practice and patient outcomes through informatics. Students explore the integration of technology to enhance care delivery and decision-making.

Legal and Ethical Issues in Professional Nursing
This course introduces legal regulations in healthcare and explores ethical issues impacting professional nursing practice. Students analyze the influence of personal ethics on decision-making.

Cultural Issues in Professional Nursing
This course examines how cultural factors affect healthcare delivery at individual, community, and system levels. It encourages awareness, discussion, and action to address cultural issues in nursing practice.

More curriculum info here:

https://catalog.sfasu.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=31&poid=12969&returnto=1351

Practicum hours are completed through virtual simulations and community-based projects, eliminating the need for in-person clinical experiences.

Flexible Course Options

Students benefit from multiple course lengths, including five-week, eight-week, and 16-week options. Leadership and community health courses are offered over 13 weeks to provide ample time for practicum requirements.

The program also integrates virtual learning tools to enhance accessibility and engagement.

Admissions and Prerequisites

Admission is open year-round, with four start dates per year. Prerequisites include 57 credit hours in subjects such as anatomy, microbiology, communication, and government, with a minimum grade of C in specified courses. Candidates must hold an active RN license and meet other general university admission standards.

Tuition

The program costs approximately $8,990, averaging $290 per credit hour. Tuition is locked in for students who graduate within four years. Additional costs include books, virtual simulations, and fees. Financial aid options are available, including assistance for military and veteran students.

Program Outcomes

Graduates are prepared to excel in leadership roles, community health, and evidence-based practice. The program equips students with critical thinking skills, cultural competency, and advanced nursing knowledge. Alumni may also pursue advanced degrees or specialized certifications.

Other Program Tracks

In addition to the standard RN to BSN track, SFA offers the School of Nursing Integrated Curriculum (SONIC) program. This unique option allows students enrolled in an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program to concurrently take RN to BSN courses.

Supportive Faculty and Learning Environment

SFA prides itself on its engaged and accessible faculty. Professors are available for in-person, email, and phone consultations, ensuring students receive personalized guidance. The program fosters a supportive environment where students are treated as individuals, not just numbers.

This program provides a comprehensive and accessible pathway for RNs seeking to advance their education and career while maintaining their work-life balance.