Virginia RN to BSN Programs
(found programs from 17 schools)

Even though nearly 97,000 RNs are licensed in Virginia, according to the Virginia Board of Nursing, like so many states, Virginia needs even more RNs. In 2010, the Virginia Nurses Association estimated an RN shortage of 22,600 RNs. Over 90 percent of Virginia nurses report they are satisfied with their work.

Over 39 percent of Virginia RNs have a BSN degree, just above the national average of 37 percent. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the additional training in critical thinking, communication, and leadership that a BSN degree offers are increasingly important as nursing practice becomes more complex. Such education often leads to increased earnings as well. Virginia nurses have a variety of options to choose from.

Programs to consider:

• Marymount University (Arlington). This is a hybrid program, offering a mix of online and classroom attendance. Most courses require two meetings at the university in addition to the online component. Some clinical and/or laboratory work is required. Courses include health promotion and risk reduction in communities, research and evidence-based practice, and contemporary issues in nursing.
• George Mason University (Fairfax). Upon completion of required general education and nursing prerequisites, students can complete the RN to BSN pathway in one year (two full-time semesters), although part-time options are available. Classes include vulnerable populations, introduction to nursing informatics, community health and epidemiology, and nursing research.
• Old Dominion University (Norfolk). Fall admissions may complete the program in one year of full-time study. Spring admissions offer only part-time study which is generally completed in two years, although a slower pace is possible. Classes are offered at the campus and via distance learning options, which include online, video streaming of live televised lectures, and Teletechnet, with one way video and two way audio being offered at a variety of sites in Virginia.

Listed below are all of the nationally accredited RN to BSN programs with campus locations in Virginia.