RN to BSN
The RN to BSN program at Sam Houston State University is designed for working nurses seeking flexible, affordable advancement. Offered 100% online, the program allows full- or part-time study with year-round start dates. Registered nurses with an active Texas license can earn their BSN in as little as one year. Courses are career-focused and led by supportive faculty, providing the skills needed for leadership roles, career growth, or future graduate study. Joint admission options are available for ADN students at partner colleges, allowing for a seamless transition into SHSU’s BSN program.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Online
- Online
4 Years
Is This Program Right for Me?
The RN to BSN program at SHSU is ideal for licensed Texas RNs or students enrolled in an ADN program at a partner college who want to advance their careers. This flexible, 100% online program is designed for working professionals—offering full- and part-time options, multiple entry points each year, and fast-track pathways to completion in just one calendar year.
Whether you’re a recent ADN graduate or a seasoned nurse, earning your BSN can expand your opportunities. You’ll gain the academic foundation and critical thinking skills needed for leadership roles, specialty certifications, or graduate study. The RN to BSN program strengthens your understanding of evidence-based practice, patient-centered care, and health systems—all while allowing you to continue working.
SHSU faculty are accessible and supportive, with advising available in person at The Woodlands Center or virtually to fit your schedule. Joint admission is available for students from Alvin Community College, Blinn College, Lone Star College, and Temple College—offering a seamless academic experience.
How the Program Works
SHSU’s RN to BSN program is delivered entirely online to accommodate the busy schedules of working RNs. Students can choose from three types of admission: Unconditional Admission for those who already hold an RN license; Conditional Admission; or Joint Admission for current ADN students at a partner college.
Courses are offered in multiple formats to maximize flexibility, including 7.5-week sessions during fall and spring semesters, and both 3-week mini-mesters and 10-week options in the summer. You can begin the program in the fall, spring, or summer, and complete your BSN in as little as one calendar year.
To apply, you’ll need a current, unencumbered Texas RN license (or proof of eligibility), a 2.5 minimum GPA, and completion of all prerequisite requirements. Clinical readiness items such as immunizations, CPR certification, and background checks must also be completed.
The curriculum consists of 10 nursing courses designed to build your knowledge in leadership, community health, and nursing research. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for advancement into supervisory roles or graduate-level education in nursing and healthcare leadership.
Why SHSU?
SHSU’s RN to BSN program is designed with flexibility in mind—offering 100% online coursework, multiple start dates, and a fast-track option to complete in one year. Supportive faculty, joint admission for ADN students, and a career-focused curriculum help registered nurses grow into leadership roles or pursue further academic goals.
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Flexible & Fully Online
The program is 100% online, making it perfect for working nurses. With full- and part-time options and multiple start dates each year, you can complete your BSN at your own pace—even in just one calendar year. Courses are short, focused, and designed to fit into your life, whether you're balancing shifts, family, or other responsibilities.
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Joint Admission Available
Students in ADN programs at Alvin Community College, Blinn College, Lone Star College, and Temple College may apply for joint admission—allowing them to begin RN to BSN coursework while still completing their associate degree. This seamless transition helps students finish their BSN faster and with fewer obstacles.
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Career Advancement Ready
Earning a BSN opens doors to leadership roles, specialty certifications, and graduate education. SHSU’s program builds your skills in critical thinking, community health, and evidence-based practice—preparing you for roles such as Nurse Manager, Public Health Nurse, or for continued study in a Master of Science in Nursing program.
Find Your Future Career
Graduates qualify for roles such as Registered Nurse, Charge Nurse, Nurse Manager, Public Health Nurse, Patient Educator, Nurse Advocate, and Nurse Educator or pursue graduate study.
Expert Faculty. Supportive Mentor
Our dedicated nursing faculty bring real-world experience, academic expertise, and a passion for mentoring the next generation of compassionate, skilled, and practice-ready nurses.
Become a Bearkat
Ready to see what a degree can do for you or to start your application to SHSU? Our Admissions team is here to help.