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Frequently Asked Questions

• When can I start the program?
  

  Terms for the Ottawa University RN-to-BSN program are offered at six convenient times throughout the year. The application deadline is two weeks prior to the start of the term.

• How long will it take me to complete the RN-to-BSN program?
  

  The length of the program will vary depending on the individual student and how many credits were transferred in and how many classes the student will take each term. Some students may finish in as little as 18 months or it may take others up to 3 years.

• How many credits do I need to earn my BSN degree at Ottawa University?
  

  128 total credits are required.

• If I am a diploma RN, may I apply to the program?
  

  Yes. One of our enrollment advisors will assist you with any questions that you have regarding the transfer of credits. However, in order for your credit hours to be considered for transfer, your courses must have been taught in affiliation with a regional, national faith-related, or national career-related institution with CHEA-recognized accreditation.

• Are there any clinical rotations in this program?
  

  There are no traditional clinical rotations as you likely experienced in your ADN or diploma nursing program. Instead, clinical requirements are met through practice experience opportunities such as pertinent application-based projects within selected coursework enhanced in your workplace and/or local community setting, as well as other reflective experiences guided by the nursing faculty.
  
  Please Note: Ottawa University will offer its RN-to-BSN program via online delivery. Ottawa University anticipates enrolling students from throughout the United States, subject to the authorization requirements of each state.

• Do I need to attend any classes on campus?
  

  No. The required nursing major courses are offered 100% online, therefore, the student may complete the courses in his/her hometown.
  Note: The majority of associate degree/diploma-prepared RNs have previously taken a Microbiology course and/or Anatomy/Physiology course(s) within their pre-licensure program. However, on the rare occasion that this is not the case, please note that the Microbiology and Anatomy/Physiology foundation courses are only offered on-site at Ottawa University's residential campus in Ottawa, Kansas. If needed, our Enrollment Advisors will be happy to provide you with more information regarding these specific courses.

• Are there any classes in the program that require special arrangements?
  

  Students will need to obtain PRIOR approval from their current employer and/or any community agency/facility in which they may plan to participate at for a specific course project/experience and provide the appropriate Ottawa University Nursing Program Faculty with evidence of this approval. You must be currently licensed as an RN in that state in which you plan to participate in these selected course projects/experiences.
  NRSG 32009 Health Assessment:
  There is not a formal lab component with this class; however, students will need to occasionally practice their assessment skills with a volunteer (i.e., family member, friend, or colleague).
  Other possible considerations:
  Curriculum is delivered in a flexible online format, however, there may be some very limited occasions throughout the program in which the student will need to arrange an (online) appointment in advance with other students and/or the instructor to discuss assignments/projects, or be online for a specific time in order to participate in a class (or synchronous login (in other words, a live/time-specific class). If this is a requirement for a particular course, this will be communicated at the beginning of that course.

• Is current work experience as an RN required?
  

  Due to the learning format of the program and its reflection on one’s own nursing experiences, it is strongly recommended that students are currently engaged in nursing practice as an RN.  However, each applicant will be reviewed and considered on an individual basis.

• What are the computer requirements?
  

  Since the courses are provided in an online format, the student will need access to the Internet and be familiar with sending and receiving email, as well as the use of PowerPoint.  In addition, an inexpensive webcam, microphone capability, speakers and/or headphone set will be needed at particular points within the curriculum.

• Why is a background check needed for this program?
  

  Because Ottawa University’s goal is to provide the best quality RN-to-BSN nursing students to represent the University, as well as the community in which it serves, a criminal background check is required for acceptance into the program. The student will be responsible for the cost of this background check.