New Hampshire has an unusually low number of BSN nurses, according to data from Plymouth State University. Less than one-third of New Hampshire nurses currently hold a BSN degree, despite the fact that the Institute of Medicine recommends that 80 percent of RNs have a minimum of a BSN by 2020.
The New Hampshire Nurses Association actively promotes - and supports - educational advancement for all licensed nurses. Their website states, "The New Hampshire Nurses Association recognizes that the nurse of the future is the baccalaureate nurse... It is recommended that newly licensed nurses set a goal of a bachelor's degree in nursing within 10 years of licensure." The organization offers scholarships to members to offset the cost of additional education.
RN to BSN programs for New Hampshire nurses include:
- Keene State College. Keene State's RN to BSN program is relatively new and provides another option for New Hampshire nurses. Working nurses who are interested in the program are encouraged to apply early, as admission to the program is competitive.
- University of New Hampshire. Nursing advisors at the University of New Hampshire work with RN to BSN students to develop individualized plans of study that respect students' past experiences and take into consideration their personal and professional goals. Over one-third of the programs RN to BSN grads eventually complete a graduate degree.
- Plymouth State University. RN to BSN courses at Plymouth State are generally completed in a four semester sequence. Students typically take six to nine credits per semester. Depending on a student's previous background, additional general education classes may be required as well.
