The state of Hawaii has a strong history of both BSN education and distance learning. While an associate degree in nursing (ADN) remains the most popular degree for entry into the profession in most states, baccalaureate nursing programs have become the most popular nursing education programs in Hawaii. According to a 2010 article in the American Journal of Nursing, the number of BSN grads in Hawaii has steadily increased over the past six or seven years. A 2009 report by the Hawaii State Center for Nursing found that over 60 percent of the state's nurses hold BSN degrees.
Given the prevalence of BSN-prepared nurses in Hawaii, many ADN nurses are heading back to school to "even out" the playing field when applying for employment. Online RN to BSN programs are a popular choice, as the state's island geography often makes on-campus attendance difficult.
RN to BSN programs for Hawaii nurses include:
- Hawaii Pacific University. Nurses who want to complete a BSN degree at Hawaii Pacific University must complete general education writing courses before enrolling in upper level nursing courses, which include coursework in leadership and management, nursing research and community nursing.
- University of Hawaii at Hilo. The University of Hawaii at Hilo has offered a distance learning RN to BSN program since 2004. Like most colleges, the University of Hawaii at Hilo may give credit for previously completed college courses.
- University of Phoenix. This popular online learning institution offers an RN to BSN program that's accessible to Hawaii nurses. Working nurses may be able to earn course credit for work experience through the university's Prior Learning Assessment.
