How to Earn Your BSN After an RN Associate
A degree may open the door to a variety of opportunities and diverse career paths. The degree programs offered at CTU will not necessarily lead to the featured careers. This collection of articles is intended to help inform and guide you through the process of determining which level of degree and types of certifications align with your desired career path.
Earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) after completing an associate degree in nursing (ADN) can help registered nurses strengthen their professional preparation and expand their potential career options. At Colorado Technical University (CTU), the RN-to-BSN program is structured for working nurses and may be completed in as little as 13 months. By transferring in eligible credits and enrolling full time, you may be able to deepen your knowledge, meet evolving employer expectations, and continue working while pursuing your degree.
Understanding the Benefits of Earning a BSN as an RN With an Associate Degree
A BSN may represent a broader level of academic and professional readiness that many healthcare organizations may seek. CTU’s RN-to-BSN program is designed for licensed nurses. It expands on prior education through leadership, evidence-based practice, community health, and healthcare technology courses. This preparation can help position nurses to pursue potential leadership roles or future study in graduate programs, which may include pathways such as Nursing Administration, Nurse Anesthetist, Nursing Science, or Nurse Midwife.*
*CTU cannot guarantee employment, salary, or career advancement. The list of career paths related to these programs are based on a subset from the Bureau of Labor Statistics CIP to SOC Crosswalk. Some career paths listed above may require further education or job experience.
Confirm Your Eligibility and Prepare Required Documents
Most RN-to-BSN programs require an active, unencumbered RN license and official transcripts verifying completion of an accredited associate degree or diploma in nursing.
Applicants should confirm:
- A minimum cumulative GPA, often between 2.5 and 3.0
- Completion of prerequisite science and general education coursework
- Submission of a formal application and, in some cases, a background check
Gathering these materials early can help prevent delays and support a smoother admissions review. At Colorado Technical University (CTU), an Admissions Advisor can assist you in verifying documentation and understanding program requirements.
Evaluate Your Transfer Credit Options and Articulation Policies
Transfer credits can have a major impact on how long it takes to earn your BSN. Articulation credit refers to previously earned exam or course credits that may apply toward your new degree program. Depending on your prior coursework and approved evaluations, you may be able to apply a significant portion of ADN credits toward your BSN, leaving primarily upper-division courses to complete.
Requesting an official transfer credit evaluation early in the process can clarify which general education and nursing courses may transfer and what additional courses may be needed. CTU’s transfer-friendly evaluation process and CTU Fast Track™ exams can help eligible students receive credit for prior learning, potentially shortening their time to degree completion.*
*Transfer credit is evaluated on an individual basis. Not all credits are eligible to transfer. See the University Catalog for transfer credit policies.
Choose a Flexible Online RN-to-BSN Program
Working nurses often benefit from a CCNE-accredited RN-to-BSN program that combines flexibility with efficiency.
Consider the RN-to-BSN at Colorado Technical University, which features:
- 100% online coursework
- Convenient mobile app , allowing access to materials anytime
- Broad acceptance of eligible transfer and articulation credits
- Options to complete applicable clinical components within your current workplace
Online learning makes it possible to balance education with variable shift schedules and personal responsibilities.
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Enroll Full Time and Select Continuous Year-Round Terms
Year-round courses can help students stay continuously enrolled, including during summer sessions.
A strategic approach may include:
- Maintaining continuous enrollment
- Taking the maximum allowable credits each term
- Planning schedules around work or family commitments during intensive study periods
Part-time study or taking breaks between terms may extend program completion by several months.
Complete Upper-Division Nursing Coursework and Clinical Requirements
BSN coursework builds on existing experience and fosters critical thinking, leadership, and community engagement.
Common courses may include:
- Leadership and Nursing Systems management
- Nursing informatics
- Evidence-based practice and applied nursing research
- A final capstone or applied project
A capstone project integrates prior learning to address real-world nursing challenges or initiatives.
Use Academic Support and Financial Resources to Stay on Track
Accessing academic and financial support can make a significant difference in an online program. Take advantage of tutoring, coaching, and technology tools available through your institution’s online learning platform.
Financial options may include1:
- Federal or state financial aid1
- Employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement
- Scholarships and flexible payment plans
Some employers collaborate with universities to support tuition costs. Reliable technology, including a computer and stable internet connection, also supports success in online learning. CTU’s Virtual Campus and student support services offer tools designed to help you stay organized and connected throughout your program.
Prepare for Graduation and Post-Graduation Steps
As you near program completion, review requirements early and stay proactive. Complete degree audits, submit your graduation application by the stated deadlines, and verify all capstone or clinical assignments are finalized. Once you have earned your BSN, you can update your résumé and online profiles to reflect your new academic credentials. After graduation, you may choose to pursue additional education, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), to continue building on your professional foundation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Colorado Technical University’s RN-to-BSN can be completed in about 13 months with full-time enrollment and accepted transfer credits.*
*Transfer credit is evaluated on an individual basis. Not all credits are eligible to transfer. See the University Catalog for transfer credit policies.
Applicants typically need an active, unencumbered RN license, an accredited associate degree or diploma in nursing, official transcripts, and a qualifying GPA.
Yes. CTU’s flexible online program is designed to help working nurses balance career and coursework.
CTU’s program meets clinical requirements through approved projects in your current workplace rather than traditional rotations.
Colorado Technical University’s accredited online RN-to-BSN holds the same academic recognition as campus-based degrees.
For more information about flexible, transfer-friendly nursing education options, explore the RN-to-BSN program at Colorado Technical University.
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, Master of Science in Nursing degree, Post Graduate APRN Certificate – Family Nurse Practitioner, and Doctor of Nursing Practice degree programs at Colorado Technical University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education ( http://www.ccneaccreditation.org).
Financial aid is available for those who qualify.
Colorado Technical University cannot guarantee employment, salary, or career advancement. Not all programs are available to residents of all states. REQ2216147 04/2026