CNA to BSN Bridge Programs

Do you want to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, but do not want to wait the required three or four years to begin working and earning a salary? If so, you should consider enrolling in a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program, get certified and work as a CNA, and then enroll in a CNA to BSN bridge program. By enrolling in a CNA to BSN bridge program, you can work towards your BSN and work as a Certified Nursing Assistant at the same time.

The CNA to BSN program is actually a combination of two programs: the CNA to LPN program and the LPN to RN or BSN program. While earning a BSN by completing two bridge programs may sound a bit complicated, it really is not. Training in this way can save you time and money as well.

How Does the Program Work?

Training for a BSN degree utilizing a CNA to BSN bridge program can cut the duration of your training down from up to four years to only 21 months to three years (nine months to one year for CNA to LPN and one year to two years for LPN to RN or BSN). This is possible because many of the credits that you earned during your CNA training can be applied to your LPN to RN training. Likewise, some credits you earn during your CNA to LPN training can be transferred to your BSN program.

What Are the Enrollment Requirements?

To be eligible for admission to a CNA to BSN bridge program, you will need to meet various criteria as set by the school and your state. These requirements vary from one school to another and one state to another. However, some of the most common requirements include:

• Actively working as a CNA
• Satisfactory high school GPA (or a GED equivalent)
• Lab-based coursework in biology, anatomy, chemistry, and microbiology
• Enrollment application and payment of tuition
• A personal essay

How Much Will the Courses Cost?

The cost of your training will vary significantly depending on the educational facility you choose. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $17,000 to $90,000. Other things you may need to purchase include books, nursing uniforms, insurance, and supplies.

Key Takeaways

If you are looking for the fastest way to obtain your Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree while earning a salary in the nursing sector itself, you should consider enrolling in a CNA program, get certified and work as a CNA, and then enroll in a CNA to BSN bridge program. By enrolling in such a bridge program, you can reduce the time of your BSN training and earn a salary as a CNA while you work towards your BSN.