Online BSN Programs in NC: Uncovering Top Schools

Inside Popular BSN Programs in North Carolina

Though BSN programs in North Carolina may be offered online, it’s important to understand how these virtual learning formats work. There is a level of flexibility you can enjoy depending on the program you choose. For example, if you enroll in an asynchronous online program, it means you can watch course content when it’s most convenient for you. In a synchronous program, however, you’ll be required to attend lectures during scheduled days and times.

Also, keep in mind that online programs will most likely be hybrid formats, meaning that some hands-on, in-person training will be required. While you may be able to take your classes online, some schools will have on-site clinical fieldwork for students, such as regular laboratory work or experience at a healthcare facility. Take a look at some school options below to get an idea of the type of programs available to students like you.

BSN Student FAQs: Your Questions, Answered

After reviewing some BSN programs in North Carolina, you probably still have questions about what to expect with transferring credits, online nursing school accreditation, student services, and more before selecting a program right for your needs. In this section, we answer some of our readers’ most pressing questions so you can make a fully-informed decision when you pursue a nursing bachelor’s degree, so read on to find out more.

Are there part-time BSN programs in North Carolina?

Yes, some schools in North Carolina offer part-time BSN programs. This adds to the flexibility of these programs, so you are better able to use effective time management skills to balance academics, work, and personal obligations. For instance, Winston-Salem State University and the University of North Carolina at Greensboro provide part-time learning options for BSN learners.

Although these programs can make a BSN more convenient, keep in mind that the tradeoff of part-time study is that you will spend more time in school. Think about whether or not it makes sense to extend the amount of time you’re in a bachelor’s degree program or if you would prefer a full-time option that may be more intensive.

Can I transfer credits from another institution?

You may be able to transfer credits depending on your situation. For example, if you have completed a nursing diploma or associate degree, a bridge program can decrease the amount of time you spend in school based on the previous coursework you completed. Also, some programs further allow you to benefit thanks to prior learning credits, which means the school will take into account your professional experience and give you credit for it.

Similarly, if you complete part of your BSN and decide to transfer to another college or university, you can typically transfer at least a portion of your credits. That being said, it can depend on how well the curriculum at your former school aligns with the curricular requirements of the new school.

What are some benefits of earning a BSN?

There are a number of benefits of earning a BSN in North Carolina. First and foremost, a bachelor’s degree will help you qualify for more job opportunities. In fact, more and more employers actively look for nurses with a bachelor’s degree, so this educational leap can be prosperous.

When it comes time to find a job and navigate healthcare job offers, one of the most important resources available to new graduates and experienced veterans alike is their professional healthcare network. Attending one of the best North Carolina BSN programs provides access to experienced professors, helpful mentors, and BSN alumni working in healthcare settings in North Carolina and beyond.

Should a BSN program be accredited?

Yes; nursing school accreditation means a program has been vetted thoroughly for the quality of the education it provides, so you can be confident that you will have the skills you need to pass the licensing exam and find a job. In fact, in order to obtain a license from the state, you must complete a program from an accredited school.

Additionally, accreditation is necessary if you want to transfer from one BSN program to another. If your previous school does not hold proper institutional and/or programmatic accreditation, this will lessen the likelihood of your credits transferring successfully.

The primary programmatic accrediting agencies for nursing are the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accrediting Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Attending a school with CCNE or ACEN accreditation ensures you receive a quality education and helps prospective employers feel confident in the rigor of your academic background.

What student services are available to BSN students in North Carolina?

There will be different student services available depending on the school you attend. Although you may enroll in an online BSN program, you can rest assured that you will not be completely on your own because schools provide support services to virtual learners. Some of these services include academic advising to help you navigate the curriculum; technology services to increase your understanding of the programs you need to use to be successful with online learning; and career services that provide guidance on how to be successful during your job search.

Other services may include financial aid support and mental health services. When looking at prospective BSN programs in North Carolina, carefully review which services different schools offer and weigh them against your individual needs.

BSN Nurse Salary & Career Path in North Carolina

Ranking the Best Online BSN Programs: North Carolina Edition

To help ensure you make the best choice for a BSN program in North Carolina, we have created the following rankings to represent the top online BSN programs available to nurses around the state. We’ve kept in mind the best factors for consideration using our refined methodology, which reveals the criteria we used when choosing these schools (to learn more, click on “About the Rankings”). Review the choices below to get an idea of what you should look for in a bachelor’s degree program.