Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to complete the program?

The average amount of time is 4 to 5 semesters. The program is designed to be flexible for the working student, and students may opt for either part-time or full-time status, depending on their needs. The student has up to five (5) years to complete the program once accepted. Students can complete in as little as 12 months.

Is the program completely online?

Yes, the professional nursing courses are delivered completely online in our learning management system. Students may opt to take any needed pre-professional or general education courses online from SWOSU if offered by the University.  

Are there any clinical components to the program?

No, the program does not require any clinical components. There are three (3) courses that include Practicum Projects i.e. Teaching/Learning or Change Projects.

Do you admit only once per year?

No, a student can apply Fall, Spring, or Summer semester. All of the courses are offered every semester. The Fall and Spring semesters are 16 weeks long and Summer is 8 weeks long so courses are more condensed in the summer. Application submission to SWOSU must be completed before the RN to BSN application can be accepted. Students may also apply prior to obtaining their RN license, although they must provide proof of licensure by the end of their first semester in order to continue taking courses in the program. If the NCLEX is not passed, students are given a grade of “Incomplete” until the exam is successfully completed. Students cannot take a course with a Practicum until an RN license is obtained.

Do you admit out of state students?

Students who reside outside of the state of Oklahoma should contact the School of Nursing to determine if they are eligible for admission. Some states charge additional fees for completing degrees in other states.

Is the program “self-paced”?

No, the program follows the same academic calendar as the campus. Online students have the same holidays and breaks as the campus. Courses are taught by semesters. There is minimal sequencing for example: N4512 Bridging Nursing Paradigms must be taken in the first semester of course work and N4552 Issues and Concepts is the Capstone course and must be taken in the final semester of course work. All other courses may be taken in any semester.

Why do I need a background check?

The Criminal Background check is conducted to provide for the safety of our communities. SWOSU strives to provide the best quality nursing students to represent the University.

Is your program accredited?

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc., 3343 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 500, Atlanta, Georgia 30326, Phone: 404.975.5000; is approved by the Oklahoma Board of Nursing; and is a member of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing and the Council of Baccalaureate and Higher Degree Programs of the National League for Nursing.

Link to the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc.: http://www.nlnac.org/

Link to the Oklahoma Board of Nursing: http://www.ok.gov/nursing/

Am I required to come to campus?

Online students are not required to come to campus at any time. However, University resources are available to students, and they are welcome to utilize those resources. Students may opt to attend graduation or to visit the School of Nursing. If you would like to visit the School of Nursing, please call 580-774-3261 to schedule an appointment.