Connecticut RN to BSN Bridge Programs

With the anticipated challenges and scrutiny in the allocation of healthcare insurance dollars in Connecticut, it is increasingly becoming more important that RNs define their rationale for patient care, identify evidence-based treatments and apply advanced critical thinking to their scope of practice. As professional healthcare providers, RNs in Connecticut are meeting these challenges by completing a BSN and expanding their nursing role with advanced training in research, diagnosis and evaluation.

With BestNursingDegree.com you can learn about different RN to BSN programs in Connecticut, as well as request more information. Use the links below to connect with the nursing schools in CT that offer RN to BSN bridge programs and begin the process of furthering your education. It is recommended to request from multiple schools so that you can find the program that best suits your cost, location and scheduling needs. Also, be sure to consider online RN to BSN programs for their schedule flexible and efficient characteristics.

According to the Connecticut League for Nursing, Connecticut ranks 49th of 50 states for the number of Registered Nurses working. The state needs more nurses – and more nurses with advanced degrees. As of 2008, over 60 percent of Connecticut’s nurses had an associate degree in nursing (ADN) as their terminal degree. The Future of Nursing, a report by the Institute of Medicine, recommends that 80 percent of RNs have a Bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) by 2020.

Nursing programs in Connecticut have responded to the need for more Bachelor’s prepared nurses by expanding RNtoBSN programs in order to prepare Connecticut’s RNs for leadership roles within nursing. A BSN is also an essential first step to a career as a nurse educator and other Master’s-level nursing specialties. Many Connecticut hospitals, including the renowned Danbury Hospital, provide at least partial tuition reimbursement for nurses who continue their nursing education at the BSN level.

Curriculum of RN to BSN Programs in Connecticut

A Connecticut RN to BSN transitional program provides the advanced knowledge of nursing research, nursing diagnosis and broadens the RN’s scope of practice. Through engaging courses that build on prior knowledge and experience, the BSN program provides a strong foundation to meet the challenges of an expanding RN role. Courses may include the following:

• Advanced nursing theories provide a framework for the sound rationale in evidence-based practice, treatments and nursing actions
• Caring for diverse cultures offers an understanding of the potential barriers and attitudes towards health and wellness in various populations
• Health in modern society discusses the philosophies and historical perspectives that have defined the evolution of healthcare today
• Concepts of pathophysiology provides advanced nursing knowledge and skill in the diagnosis, assessment and treatment of disease
• Professional leadership courses prepare RNs for advanced management, mentorship and leadership roles in nursing
• Humanities related subjects provide a unique perspective on humanity, sharpen critical thinking skills and empower nursing intuition.

Most RN to BSN programs in CT may be completed within two years. You may receive credit for your ADN and nursing-related work experience. The RN to BSN is designed to build on your existing knowledge and experience and offers seamless transition to furthering your role as a professional nurse.

The current trends of numerous states, including Connecticut, are the recent practice of hiring RNs who hold a BSN. Premiere hospitals that hold magnate status boast over a 50 percent professional staff that is baccalaureate prepared. According to The American Association of Colleges of Nurses, BSN nurses are highly valued for their advanced leadership roles, skills in critical thinking and the advanced understanding of health promotion.

Career Opportunities in Connecticut

Opportunities for bachelor prepared RNs are widely available in Connecticut. Positions in administration, management and highly specialized licenses are reserved for RNs with BSNs. RNs who hold BSNs may apply to the following areas of nursing:

• Clinical research studies require nurses to provide details, organization and perform examinations and assessments
• A public school nurse assesses child safety, teaches health and wellness and performs emergency and regular care to students
• Ostomy specialists may work on a contract basis that includes home health, healthcare facilities and professional educator
• Premiere hospitals require RNs with BSNs to apply an advanced role in bedside care, clinical education and management positions

According to 2012 blog post by Soliant Health, one of the countries largest healthcare providers, Connecticut is ranked tenth in the country for average hourly wages for nurses at more than $22. Connecticut also comes in about $7,000 above the national average salary at more than $76,000 annually according to the 2013 BLS Data.

RN to BSN programs for Connecticut nurses include:

• Southern Connecticut State University. Southern Connecticut offers an online RN to BSN program. Nurses may receive credit for nursing courses (and general education courses) taken at community colleges and other universities. Some on-campus attendance may be required.
• Fairfield University. Fairfield has partnerships with a number of local community colleges. Nurses who complete their basic nursing education at one of the partner colleges may receive credits toward their BSN degree.
• University of Hartford. The RN to BSN program at the University of Hartford was the first degree completion program for nurses in Connecticut. Nurses may complete the program through part-time attendance. Classes are generally held one afternoon or evening a week.