Advancing your nursing career often requires obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. Recognizing the need for flexibility among working professionals, Capella University offers the FlexPath RN to BSN program, designed to accommodate the busy schedules of registered nurses seeking to elevate their education and career prospects. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the program, including its structure, benefits, costs, and insights from student reviews.
Table of Contents
About Capella University
Capella University is an accredited online institution known for its innovative and flexible learning models tailored for working adults. Established in 1993, Capella has consistently provided competency-based education, allowing students to progress at their own pace while ensuring they acquire the necessary skills and knowledge for their respective fields.
FlexPath Learning Model
The FlexPath learning model is a self-paced, competency-based education format that allows students to:
- Set their own deadlines: Students decide when to complete assessments within each billing session.
- Accelerate learning based on experience: Prior knowledge and experience can help students progress faster through the coursework.
- Pay a flat tuition rate per session: Rather than paying per credit, students pay a flat fee per 12-week session, potentially reducing the overall cost by completing more courses within a session.
This model is particularly beneficial for working professionals who need to balance education with other responsibilities.
Capella University FlexPath RN to BSN Program Overview
The FlexPath RN to BSN program is designed for registered nurses holding an associate degree or diploma in nursing who wish to obtain a bachelor’s degree to advance their careers. The program focuses on enhancing clinical skills, leadership abilities, and evidence-based practice knowledge.
Program Structure and Curriculum
The curriculum is aligned with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Essentials and covers a broad range of topics, including:
- Nursing Leadership and Management: Developing skills for effective leadership and decision-making in healthcare settings.
- Evidence-Based Practice: Learning to integrate research and evidence into clinical practice to improve patient outcomes.
- Community and Public Health Nursing: Focusing on health promotion and disease prevention at the community level.
- Health Assessment and Promotion: Enhancing skills in comprehensive health assessments across diverse populations.
- Healthcare Policy and Regulation: Understanding the impact of policies and regulations on nursing practice and patient care.
- Quality Improvement Initiatives: Learning methods to assess and improve healthcare quality and safety.
Students demonstrate mastery through various assessments, such as research papers, case studies, and project-based assignments, rather than traditional exams.
Duration
The duration of the program varies based on the student’s pace. On average:
- Fast-paced learners may complete the program in as little as 9 months.
- Moderate-paced learners typically finish in 12-18 months.
The flexibility allows students to accelerate their studies when possible and slow down during busier times without affecting their progress adversely.
Admission Requirements
To be eligible for the program, applicants must:
- Hold a current, unencumbered RN license.
- Have completed an associate degree or diploma in nursing from an accredited institution.
- Submit official transcripts from all previous educational institutions.
Additional requirements may include a minimum GPA and possible prerequisite coursework, depending on the applicant’s educational background.
Accreditation
Capella University’s nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring that the education provided meets rigorous academic and professional standards.
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Order NowCapella University FlexPath RN to BSN Program Cost and Financial Aid
The FlexPath tuition model offers a flat-rate tuition fee per 12-week session. As of the knowledge cutoff in October 2023:
- The tuition is approximately $2,800 per session.
Students can potentially reduce the total cost by completing more courses within each session. Other financial considerations include:
- Transfer Credits: Students can transfer up to 135 quarter credits, which can significantly reduce both time and cost.
- Financial Aid: Federal financial aid, scholarships, and employer tuition reimbursement programs are available for eligible students.
- Military Discounts: Special tuition rates and benefits are offered to active-duty military members and veterans.
Prospective students should consult Capella University’s official website or contact admissions counselors for the most current and detailed cost information.
Benefits of the Capella University FlexPath RN to BSN Program
- Flexibility: The self-paced format accommodates working professionals, allowing them to balance work, life, and education effectively.
- Cost-Effective: The flat-rate tuition and the ability to accelerate learning can lead to significant cost savings.
- Career Advancement: Earning a BSN opens doors to advanced nursing roles, higher salaries, and further educational opportunities such as master’s or doctoral programs.
- Skill Enhancement: The curriculum equips nurses with advanced clinical, leadership, and analytical skills necessary for today’s complex healthcare environments.
- Personalized Learning: Students can focus on areas most relevant to their career goals and interests.
Capella University FlexPath RN to BSN Program Reviews and Experiences
Feedback from current and former students provides valuable insights into the program’s effectiveness and student satisfaction.
Positive Reviews
Many students have praised the FlexPath RN to BSN program for its:
- Flexibility: Students appreciate the ability to set their own schedules and progress at a comfortable pace.
Source: NursingDegreeSearch.com
- Supportive Faculty and Staff: Learners have noted the accessibility and responsiveness of instructors and academic advisors.
Source: GradReports.com
- Practical Curriculum: The coursework is described as relevant and immediately applicable to real-world nursing practice.
Source: OnlineDegreeReviews.org
- Accelerated Completion: Motivated students have successfully completed the program quickly, benefiting from the self-paced structure.
Source: Indeed.com
Areas for Improvement
Some students have pointed out challenges such as:
- Time Management: The self-paced nature requires strong self-discipline and time-management skills, which can be challenging for some.
Source: BestColleges.com
- Financial Planning: While the potential for cost savings exists, students must plan effectively to maximize the benefits of the flat-rate tuition model.
Source: Niche.com
- Technology Requirements: As an online program, reliable internet access and familiarity with online learning platforms are essential.
Source: StudentReview.com
Overall, the majority of reviews highlight positive experiences, emphasizing the program’s adaptability to individual needs and the quality of education provided.
Campbell University FlexPath RN to BSN Program Courses: Example Program Course Sequence
The Campbell University FlexPath RN to BSN program is designed for registered nurses seeking to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) while balancing work and personal commitments. The FlexPath model allows students to progress through the program at their own pace, making it an attractive option for those with varying levels of experience and time availability. Below is an example course sequence that takes prerequisites into account and provides a general guide for students as they register for courses. Your specific sequence may vary based on transfer credits, personal pace, and guidance from your academic coach.
Example Program Course Sequence
| Course | Credits | Course Description |
|---|
| NHS4000: Developing a Health Care Perspective | 6 | Introduces students to the current landscape of healthcare, key issues, trends, and roles of various healthcare professionals. Develops a broad healthcare perspective. |
| NURS4010: Leading People, Processes, and Organizations in Interprofessional Practice | 6 | Focuses on leadership skills essential in interprofessional settings, including leadership theories, change management, and strategies for leading diverse teams. |
| General Education: Choose a Communications Course | 6 | Enhances communication skills critical for nursing, covering topics such as interpersonal communication, public speaking, or professional writing. |
| NURS4020: Improving Quality of Care and Patient Safety | 6 | Explores principles and practices leading to improved patient outcomes, including quality improvement methodologies and safety protocols. |
| General Education: Choose a General Education Elective | 6 | Allows students to broaden their educational experience by selecting a course that complements their nursing studies, such as social sciences or ethics. |
| NURS4030: Making Evidence-Based Decisions | 6 | Teaches students how to critically evaluate research and apply evidence-based principles to clinical decision-making to enhance patient care. |
| General Education: Choose a Humanities Course | 6 | Provides insight into human culture, values, and ethics, with course options in philosophy, history, or literature. |
| NURS4040: Managing Health Information and Technology | 6 | Explores the intersection of healthcare and technology, including electronic health records, health informatics, and data management to improve patient outcomes. |
| General Education: Choose a General Education Elective | 6 | Another elective course that allows students to pursue areas of interest outside the core nursing curriculum. |
| NURS4050: Coordinating Patient-Centered Care | 6 | Emphasizes the importance of patient-centered care, focusing on care coordination, interdisciplinary collaboration, and patient advocacy. |
| General Education: Choose a Natural Science/Math Course | 6 | Select a course that enhances scientific knowledge, such as biology, chemistry, or statistics, providing analytical skills for evidence-based practice. |
| NURS4060: Practicing in the Community to Improve Population Health | 6 | Focuses on community health nursing, including population health, disease prevention, and working with diverse populations to improve health outcomes. |
| NURS4900: Capstone Project for Nursing | 6 | The Capstone Project allows students to apply their knowledge and skills in a real-world setting by addressing a healthcare issue through research and innovation. |
FAQ
What is the FlexPath format, and how does it differ from a traditional RN to BSN program?
The FlexPath format is a self-paced learning model that allows students to complete courses at their own speed, based on their understanding and mastery of the material. Unlike traditional programs with fixed schedules and deadlines, FlexPath gives students the flexibility to accelerate their progress by completing as many courses as they can within each billing session. This model is ideal for working professionals who need to balance education with other responsibilities.
How long does it take to complete the RN to BSN program in the FlexPath format?
The time it takes to complete the program varies depending on each student’s pace, prior coursework, and the time they can dedicate to their studies. Some students may finish in as few as 9-12 months, while others may take longer if they choose to progress at a slower pace. The FlexPath model allows you to tailor your education to fit your schedule.
Can I transfer credits from other institutions into the Campbell University FlexPath RN to BSN program?
Yes, Campbell University allows students to transfer eligible credits from accredited institutions. Transfer credits can reduce the number of courses you need to complete and potentially shorten the time to earn your degree. It’s recommended to consult with an academic coach to evaluate your transcripts and understand how your previous coursework applies to the program.
What kind of support is available to students in the FlexPath RN to BSN program?
Students in the FlexPath program have access to a range of support services, including academic coaches, faculty mentors, and technical support. Academic coaches help you plan your course sequence, set goals, and stay on track, while faculty mentors are available to provide guidance on course content and assignments. Additionally, technical support is available for any issues related to the online learning platform.
What are the costs associated with the FlexPath RN to BSN program, and how does billing work?
The FlexPath RN to BSN program operates on a subscription-based billing model, where you pay a flat tuition rate per 12-week billing session. During each session, you can complete as many courses as you are able, allowing you to potentially save money by progressing more quickly through the program. This model offers cost predictability and the opportunity to control the overall cost of your degree based on your pace of study.