RN to BS in Nursing Pathway

100% Online and Built for Working Nurses

Open the door to greater career options within the nursing profession by completing a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing. The University of Colorado College of Nursing RN to BS in Nursing program is completely online, allowing you to seek your BS degree, balance your life, and work at the same time. The availability of online courses supports the unique need for flexibility and access to adult learners who want to complete their Bachelor of Science degree while working. Educational technology, such as web-based courses, helps to accommodate work schedules and other life commitments for our students.

The RN to BS program offers flexible enrollment allowing students to choose their pace including:

  • Fast-Track Pathway – complete the program in one year or three semesters (fall start only),
  • Traditional Pathway – designed to be completed in 4 semesters/16 months, or
  • Extended Pathway – designed for students looking for a slower pace taking 1-2 courses a semester for up to three years.

Are you currently enrolled in an ADN, please be sure to learn about our early admissions program for ADN students.

About the RN to BS Nursing Pathway

  • 30 credits - Working RNs will find the program aligns with scheduling needs and agency tuition reimbursement policies.
  • Admission is offered every fall, spring, and summer term. The cohort model provides you with an opportunity to interact with CU Nursing students from within and out of the state of Colorado.
  • The program includes courses to add value to your education and experiences designed to meet your personal goals.
  • Focus on leadership and Quality Improvement areas of interest (create a project meaningful and useful to you and your organization).
  • Admission requirements include 60 hours of pre-requisite work, however provisional admission allows students to complete 1 or 2 prerequisites in the first semester of the RN to BS program.
  • Tuition buy-down is applied in the last semester of enrollment for students who complete the program on time, bringing the total cost of the program to $12,000.
  • A nursing license is required but may be earned in the first semester of enrollment to allow a seamless transition for new ADN graduates.
  • Western Undergraduate Exchange participate.
  • No enrollment deposit is required.

RN to BS Program Curriculum Plan


RN to BS in Nursing course descriptions

Below are the course descriptions for this program. The curriculum is subject to revision. We have updated the courses to help prepare students for the next level in their nursing career.