FAQs

Who is eligible to apply to the R.N. to B.S.N. online program?

You are eligible to apply if:

  1. You are a Registered Nurse with a current, active and un-encumbered license AND/OR
  2. A graduate of an approved AND accredited associate degree nursing or diploma program AND
  3. Have 1,000 hours of work experience in the last 12-24 months OR pass a clinical proficiency exam (work hours waived for new graduates)

Note: The Arkansas State Board of Nursing currently has a requirement for recent nursing practice OR demonstration of proficiency through a skills check.

What are the escrow courses?

Escrow courses are the credits from the U of A for your nursing school work. Your escrow credits will not appear on your transcript until you have completed all the required courses.

How does the application process work?

  1. Apply to the University of Arkansas The nursing program application questions will automatically populate into your general U of A application once you select the R.N. to B.S.N. program. (This is one application.)
  2. Print and have your employer or school complete the verification of employment/good standing form, upload to the U of A application portal.
  3. Send all official transcripts to the Office of the Registrar. This should include all nursing education, even if it is from a non-regional school (nothing that will transfer directly). The nursing school will need this to complete your application eligibility file, showing proof of program completion. 

Are there set deadlines for application? Can I start anytime?

The R.N. to B.S.N. program accepts applications all year for starts in fall, spring or summer semesters — 5 start options per year. Note that it can take 4-6 weeks for an application to be processed, it is essential to select a start term to allow for this processing time. You may need to have your transcript manually reviewed to see what courses might be counted for credit. Contact an advisor.

I am an international student. Can I apply to the program?

You may or may not be eligible to enroll based on your visa status. Contact the International Admissions office at 1-479-575-6246.

How are the courses taught?

There are 11 courses delivered online through the U of A Global Campus and taught by the faculty of the Eleanor Mann School of Nursing. There is one clinical immersion course that you will complete in your geographic area. Each course is 8 weeks long.

Do I need to come to the campus?

At the present time, there is no on-campus requirement.

What is the cost?

Tuition and major costs are found at the program's Global Campus page. Tuition costs do not include required texts. Find fees and expenses on this list.

How long do I have to complete the program?

Our program is designed to be flexible. Plans of study can be completed in one year, 16 months or 2 years. Once admitted, students will work with the academic advisor to develop a plan of progression that is unique to the student and their needs.

Is there a minimum Grade Point Average to apply?

Students applying for the R.N. to B.S.N. program option must only meet the GPA requirement to be accepted to the University of Arkansas. The nursing school does not have an additional GPA requirement.

Contact the Eleanor Mann School of Nursing Online R.N. to B.S.N. program at:

OnlineRN@uark.edu
479-575-6640
Fax: 479-575-5133