CCRI and RIC Launch Online RN to BSN Program in Rhode Island

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Students participating in online nursing education from the comfort of their homes.

News Summary

The Community College of Rhode Island and Rhode Island College have partnered to offer a fully online RN to BSN program. This initiative is designed to provide a flexible and affordable route for nursing graduates to achieve their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, addressing the growing demand for qualified nursing professionals in the state.

Warwick, Rhode Island – The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) and Rhode Island College (RIC) have jointly launched a fully online Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) program. This initiative aims to provide a flexible and affordable pathway for nursing graduates to obtain their Bachelor of Science in nursing degree, addressing the growing demand for qualified nursing professionals in the state.

The program is tailored specifically for graduates of CCRI’s Associate Degree Nursing program, allowing them a seamless transition into RIC’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. This structured route is designed to facilitate the educational journey for current nursing students and enhance the nursing workforce in Rhode Island efficiently.

As expressed by Rosemary Costigan, the interim president of CCRI, this program holds particular personal significance for her. Costigan has emphasized the importance of investing in nursing students and their education as a means to improve the overall health of Rhode Island’s population. She noted her own path from CCRI to RIC, highlighting the transformative potential of nursing education in creating career opportunities.

Jack Warner, president of Rhode Island College, underscored the critical need for nurses possessing advanced degrees in Rhode Island. He indicated that the newly launched program stands to reinforce the state’s nursing workforce without necessitating that current working professionals lose valuable time to commute or relocate for their education.

Further, David Caprio, chair of the R.I. Council on Postsecondary Education, remarked on the significant advantages of obtaining a bachelor’s degree in nursing. Graduates can expect to experience career advancement, increased job opportunities, and higher earning potential. This is particularly crucial in a field where education levels can significantly impact one’s career trajectory and professional development.

The online format of the RN to BSN program is especially beneficial for working nursing professionals. By allowing students to pursue their degrees remotely, the program aims to accommodate the demanding schedules of those already in the workforce, thereby making advanced education more accessible and convenient for all nursing professionals.

Prospective students, like Paige Mitchell, who is nearing graduation from CCRI’s nursing program, have expressed enthusiasm about the new opportunities this program offers. Many students are eager to remain in Rhode Island for both their education and future careers and see this program as an ideal solution to fulfill their aspirations.

This RN to BSN initiative is part of a broader strategy to strengthen Rhode Island’s healthcare workforce through educational advancements. By providing a pathway for Associate Degree graduates to further their education and expertise, the program aspires to meet both the needs of the healthcare industry and the aspirations of nursing professionals within the state.

In summary, the collaboration between CCRI and RIC to offer this online RN to BSN program is a significant step forward in addressing the urgent need for qualified nursing professionals in Rhode Island. The program is designed to provide existing nursing graduates a significant opportunity to enhance their qualifications while supporting the overall health and healthcare services in the state.