Saint Francis University offers an online RN to BSN program designed for registered nurses looking to advance their education. This flexible, transfer-friendly program allows students to complete their BSN in as little as 11 months, depending on transfer credits and course load.
The curriculum is based on AACN Essentials of Baccalaureate Education and provides a foundation in liberal arts with a caring-based nursing philosophy. Students can take advantage of rolling admissions, with three start dates per year.
Accreditation
The baccalaureate nursing program at Saint Francis University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Outcomes
Graduates of the program are equipped with skills in evidence-based practice, interprofessional communication, informatics, patient safety, and leadership.
Many students continue their education by enrolling in the Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP) program.
Acceptance and Transfer Credits
The program is transfer-friendly, allowing students to transfer up to 98 credits. Nurses with an associate degree receive 27 general education credits automatically.
Additionally, students earn advanced-standing credits for prior nursing coursework.
Curriculum
The RN to BSN program includes both online theory courses and direct care experiences.
Students complete 25 credits of core nursing courses, along with any remaining general education courses.
Core courses include:
NURS 471 – Professional Nursing Concepts for RNs
This course examines the evolving roles and responsibilities of professional nurses in modern healthcare. Students will explore interprofessional collaboration, ethical decision-making, cultural diversity, and social justice in patient care. Emphasis is placed on therapeutic relationships and leadership development to enhance professional growth.
NURS 472 – Information Literacy and Writing Skills for RNs
Students will develop information literacy and academic writing skills essential for nursing practice. The course covers library resources, research techniques, and discipline-specific writing, helping students improve their ability to communicate effectively in professional and academic settings.
NURS 473 – Community Health and Population Focused Health Care for RNs
This course prepares students to provide culturally competent, community-based care with a focus on health promotion and disease prevention. Topics include epidemiology, communicable diseases, environmental health, and disaster response. Students will examine global health issues and healthcare disparities while applying evidence-based nursing practices in community settings.
NURS 474 – Health Care Policy and Ethics for RNs
Students will explore healthcare policy, ethics, and legal considerations that impact nursing practice. The course examines political influences, legislative processes, reimbursement systems, and regulatory policies that shape healthcare delivery. Ethical principles guide discussions on patient rights, diverse populations, and organizational decision-making.
NURS 475 – Research and Scholarship for Evidence-Based Practice for RNs
This course introduces students to research methodologies, evidence-based practice (EBP), and ethical considerations in nursing research. Students will conduct literature reviews, critique research studies, and apply findings to clinical practice to enhance patient outcomes and healthcare efficiency.
NURS 476 – Information Management and Application of Patient Care Technologies for RNs
Students will learn to utilize informatics and healthcare technology to improve patient care and administrative processes. The course covers electronic health records, data management, and interprofessional collaboration tools to support clinical decision-making and enhance healthcare delivery.
NURS 477 – Practice-Focused Nursing Care for the Professional RN
This course emphasizes holistic, patient-centered care grounded in scientific research and nursing theory. Students will engage in a clinical immersion experience across four spheres of care: health promotion, chronic disease management, restorative care, and palliative support.
NURS 478 – Management, Leadership, and Quality Care for RNs
This course focuses on healthcare leadership, quality improvement, and systems-based practice. Students will develop management skills, assess healthcare systems, and implement quality improvement measures to enhance patient safety. Interprofessional collaboration and care coordination are emphasized.
The online format is asynchronous, meaning students can complete coursework at their own pace while meeting weekly deadlines.
More curriculum information here:
https://catalog.francis.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=17&poid=7597&returnto=775
Clinical Requirements
Clinical requirements are fulfilled through direct care experiences, which provide hands-on learning.
Tuition
The estimated total tuition cost is $12,125 for the nursing coursework.
Cost Breakdown
- Tuition per credit hour: $485
- Total required credits for the program: 25 (major nursing courses)
- 25 × $485 = $12,125
Students employed by partnering healthcare organizations receive a 25% tuition discount, reducing the per-credit cost to $363.75, bringing the discounted total to approximately $9,093.75.
The university also allows students to use employer tuition reimbursement to cover expenses.
More tuition details here: https://www.francis.edu/tuition-and-fees
Admission Requirements
To qualify, applicants must:
- Hold a current, unrestricted RN license in their state of practice
- Have an associate degree or diploma in nursing from an accredited program
- Maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5
- Submit official transcripts from all prior institutions
- Be in good academic standing
Other Nursing Programs Offered
Students who complete the RN to BSN program can apply for six MSN credits at the BSN tuition rate, making it easier to transition into the MSN-FNP program.
The university also offers graduate-level nursing programs for those looking to advance further in their careers.
Online Learning and Support Services
The RN to BSN program is fully online, providing flexibility for working nurses. Students have access to academic advising, tutoring, a writing center, disability services, and counseling.
The program also assigns a dedicated online advisor and RN-BSN coordinator to guide students through their coursework.
Conclusion
Saint Francis University’s online RN to BSN program is a fast, affordable, and flexible pathway for nurses seeking to advance their education. With transfer-friendly policies, accreditation, and financial aid options, it provides an accessible route to earning a BSN while continuing to work.
Graduates gain the skills and credentials needed to expand their career opportunities in healthcare.
More RN to BSN Programs in the Western PA Area
- MercyHurst University - Erie
- Mount Aloysius College - Cresson