The College of Nursing proudly announces the relaunch of its RN to BSN program, now open for enrollment for the fall semester of 2024. This innovative online degree program is meticulously crafted to accommodate the demanding schedules of working professionals, empowering Registered Nurses (RNs) to step into leadership and managerial roles within the dynamic landscape of health care.

What’s happening

• Prospective students can now embark on a journey to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing within as little as 12 months, tailored specifically to suit the bustling routines of practicing Registered Nurses.
• RN to BSN students gain unfettered access to a wealth of university resources, fostering a supportive and enriching educational environment.

Why it matters

By enrolling in this progressive program, nurses not only propel their educational journey forward but also actively contribute to shaping the future of health care. The statistics paint a compelling picture:

• According to the South Carolina Area Health Education Consortium (AHEC), the state boasts nearly 42,000 licensed, actively practicing nonfederal registered nurses.
• The US Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) foresees a national shortage of 78,610 full-time equivalent (FTE) RNs by 2025, escalating to 63,720 FTE RNs by 2030.
• South Carolina is projected to face the 10th largest shortage in the US by 2035.
• With the average age of RNs in South Carolina hovering around 45 in 2018, and over 35% of them aged 50 or older, the need for nursing education and career advancement is more pressing than ever.
• The number of RNs practicing in rural areas has seen a decline, further accentuating the urgency for educational initiatives like the RN to BSN program.

Going deeper

Understanding the intricate dynamics of RN supply and demand, alongside their demographic, educational, and employment characteristics, is paramount for effective workforce planning and policy development. The HRSA model reveals a stark reality: while the projected demand for RNs in South Carolina is on the rise, there remains a significant deficit in meeting this demand, leaving approximately 8.9% of projected demand unmet by 2025.

What they’re saying

Dean Jeannette Andrews expresses, “We are relaunching our RN-BSN program in response to student and health system partners’ request. Both nurses and employers recognize the stellar reputation of USC Nursing and the exceptional quality and competency of our graduates.”

Victoria Davis, Program Director and Associate Professor, adds, “The colleges’ RN to BSN program offers unparalleled advantages for prospective students in South Carolina. We accommodate working nurses to ensures a seamless balance between education and professional commitments. Led by top-notch faculty renowned for their academic excellence and innovation, students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills vital for success in nursing. Access to campus resources such as academic coaching, a student success center, and a career center further enhances the educational experience.”