RN to BS with a major in Nursing
RN to BS with a major in Nursing provides the associate or diploma prepared RN an online option for advancing nursing education. Available to graduates of NLNAC accredited associate degree or diploma programs, this option makes the Bachelor of Science with a major in Nursing program at South Dakota State University, College of Nursing, available to experienced RNs with work and family responsibilities.
Building upon past education and experience, the online format provides an opportunity for registered nurses to enhance the high-quality care provided to patients, improve health care for rural and underserved populations, emphasizes the role of the nurse in todays health care system, and facilitates personal development as a leader in professional nursing.
Although a four-year program of study prepares nurses with a baccalaureate degree in the shortest, most direct, and least costly method of preparation, some individuals need to use a step-wise approach and progress up the career ladder through levels of education. To meet the needs of an increasingly complex client population, the national Division of Nursing at the federal level is projecting a need by 2010 for an increase to 66% of the registered nurse population prepared at a minimum of a baccalaureate degree.
RN-BS with a major in Nursing graduates can continue to advance their nursing education path through the Master of Science in Nursing program available through the College of Nursing at SDSU, currently offering 6 specialization areas of study.
Program Accreditation
South Dakota State University College of Nursing offers Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees with a major in Nursing. Both programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and approved by the South Dakota Board of Nursing. SDSU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges.
For additional information regarding RN-BS with a major in Nursing (RN Upward Mobility), please call 1-888-216-9806, #1
Admission Requirements
Pre-admission transcript evaluation provides each RN with a list of requirements already completed. Transcripts can be sent electronically, mailed or faxed to RN Upward Mobility for pre-admission evaluation. Fax: 605-688-6502 Email: Susan.rosen@sdstate.edu
RNs may apply to the nursing major course sequence with no more than 7 support credits to be completed. Complete list of the university core and nursing major support requirements available here:
Application Procedures
Step 1:
Admission to the university, click here RNs may begin University core and nursing support courses in any semester, following university admission
Step 2:
College of Nursing Application, RN-BS with a major in Nursing
Eligible RNs receive the application packet in January, for admission to the major courses to begin in May of that year. Application submission date is March 1. The number of RNs admitted to the major may vary. Selection is made from among the best qualified for the study and practice of nursing.
Documentation required following admission to the major:
Completion of required core and support coursework
Current Licensed RN
CPR Certification
FBI Background check and Drug Screen
Proof of Personal Liability Insurance
Immunization and health status report
Curriculum Plan
RN to BS with a major in Nursing Curriculum Plan
Course Descriptions
Course descriptions can be found in the current Undergraduate Catalog
FAQ (in progress)
Financial Aid
Information from SDSUs Financial Aid Office is available by clicking here (SDSUs financial aid code is 003471). To contact the financial aid office directly, call: 1-888-952-3541 or 605-688-4702. Please note separate summer financial aid application is required if requesting summer financial aid.
Scholarships
Scholarships are available to RNs in the nursing major. Information is included in nursing major application packet.
Useful Links:
SDSU Bookstore

Distance Education at SDSU
H.M. Briggs Library
Transfer Equivalency guide
