Online Program Format

RN to BSN Online

Azusa Pacific's online RN to BSN program is designed for adult learners wishing to complete their undergraduate degree without the on-campus class requirement.

The program allows students to take advantage of the convenience of online learning without sacrificing the quality of instruction or professor-student interaction. Students can accomplish their degree goals through the identical curriculum and cohort model that has been so successful in the traditional RN to BSN program.

Convenient Schedule

Courses are taught sequentially, and the accelerated format means new courses begin every five to ten weeks. Students find the rich diversity of experiences which students bring to the interactive online environment result in lively discussions involving shared experiences.

Committed to Your Success

Successful students in this online format clearly recognize that, while there is flexibility in asynchronous learning, a strong commitment to consistent participation, communication, and completion of all work is critical. A Student Orientation, part of a non-credit preseminar, is mandatory for all online students prior to the start of their online course/cohort.

Through this online program, students will engage with the School of Nursing and APU staff in one-on-one communication for academic and financial advising. A nurses' lounge will also be available to facilitate community within the cohort and between cohorts, faculty, and staff.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get started?

Online degree programs may include requirements, procedures, and policies that vary from the university’s more traditional programs. For more information on how to get started in an APU online program, contact us at (877) 816-6546 or at online@apu.edu.

How many units are in this program?

The program requires 40 semester units. A total minimum of 120 units are required for graduation with the BS degree.

Are scholarships available?

Several types of financial aid are available. The resources range from federal loans and state grants, to fellowships and scholarships. For details about financial aid programs, please contact the Office of Student Financial Services at (626) 815-5301.

How often do I need to be online for the online program?

You must be online sufficiently throughout each week to participate in threaded discussions and to complete all assignments by their designated deadlines. However, there is no prescribed amount of time that you will be required to be online because assignments and their deadlines will vary throughout each course.

Will I have to complete any part of my Online RN to BSN program at an APU campus location?

No. You can complete your degree entirely online. No campus visits or meetings are required. Clinical experiences will be at local facilities with which APU has contracted.

How soon can I finish this program?

This program can be completed in 15 months.

How many hours a week do I need to study?

There is no one answer that fits all students. The time a student needs to invest in order to be successful depends on the individual. The time required varies with the student’s experience, abilities, personal and work support systems, and course content. More hours may be required from those who have been out of school for many years and from those who have limited experience in accessing research studies or advanced level writing.

Where will I complete my clinical experiences?

You will most likely complete (either BNRS 448 or 449) your clinical hours for at least one of the clinical courses at your place of employment. APU’s School of Nursing has contracts with many facilities, but can also initiate new contracts if time allows. BNRS 448 requires a licensed acute care hospital (including psychology and rehabilitation) experience. BNRS 449 will be a community placement in a school system and/or community setting.

What happens if I get behind and need to withdraw from a course or the program?

First, let your professor and the director know immediately. There may be an option to take an incomplete grade in that course. The program is designed in a lock-step format, meaning courses typically follow in sequence and build upon each other. While there are some exceptions, a student will usually retake the course the next time it is offered either online or on campus. If it becomes necessary to withdraw, students must immediately communicate with the School of Nursing to avoid financial impact. The School of Nursing will assist them to determine the best approach for them academically, personally, and financially.