FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions About the Online RN-BSN Program
How do I apply?
You may apply online by visiting Undergraduate Admissions. However, if you have taken a course or been admitted to a program at UMass Boston previously, please visit Online Application for instructions. Applications for the Online RN-BS Program are accepted for the fall, spring, and summer semesters. The application deadlines are as follows:
- July 1 for the fall semester
- November 1 for the spring semester
- April 1 for the summer semester
Students applying to the Online RN-BSN Program through the Undergraduate Admissions Office need to submit an application, the application fee, and official transcripts from all schools attended since high school (even if the coursework does not relate to nursing). Online RN-BS applicants do not need to submit an essay, high school transcript or letters of recommendation.
If you attended UMass Boston (or Boston State College) previously, please click here.
What is the minimum GPA for admission consideration?
You must have at least a 2.75 GPA to be considered for admission to the RN-BS Program. If you do not meet this minimum GPA requirement, please contact Undergraduate Admissions to discuss possible options.
Will all of my credits transfer?
UMass Boston will accept up to a maximum of 90 credits that apply to the BS in nursing. UMass Boston accepts up to 70 credits from an accredited 2-year academic institution, and up to 90 credits from an accredited 4-year academic institution. Please note that courses must be a minimum of 3 credits and have a letter grade of C- or higher in order to be eligible for transfer to UMass Boston.
Are there a certain number of credits that must be taken at UMass Boston?
The university requires students to earn a minimum of 30 credits at UMass Boston in order to obtain a degree from UMass Boston. The 5 six-credit online nursing courses in the Online RN-BS program meet this residency requirement.
I took my science classes 20 years ago. Will those classes still count?
The Online RN-BS Program does not have a time limit on accepting science courses, or any other courses.
How do I know what courses I’ll need to take?
The Online RN-BS Curriculum outlines the courses students need to complete prior to admission and the additional university requirements. In addition there is an academic advisor who will work with you throughout out your course of study. Also, please feel free to bring your transcripts to an Online RN-BS Information Session.
How long is the program?
The actual length of the program will vary depending on the number of transfer credits that a student has upon entering the program and when they chose to complete any additional requirements. The required online nursing courses will take five (5) semesters (spring, summer and fall) to complete. Completion of the additional university requirements will vary depending on the student.
While my application is being processed are there classes I could be taking?
Yes. The Online RN-BSN Curriculum and Advising Sheet list all courses required to complete the program. Please visit Online RN-BS Curriculum for more information.
Many registered nurses have not completed a 3 credit course in Pharmacology and 3 credit course in Nutrition. Students have the option of taking a course in each of those subjects or taking an NLN Examination. For information on the NLN examination, please visit NLN examination.
What is the cost of the program?
As of Spring 2011, the cost of a six-credit online nursing course is $1,920, which equates to $320 per credit for an online course. There is a one-time cost for headphones to use in the synchronized chat (Wimba) utilized in the online nursing classes. The cost of books varies with the course. For additional information on costs, please visit Online RN-BS Financial Information.
Is financial aid available?
Financial aid is available for qualified students. For additional information, please contact the Financial Aid Office at (617) 287-6300 or visit Financial Aid.
What are the academic standards for progression and graduation once I matriculate in the program?
The minimum passing grade for the online nursing courses, statistics course, and nutrition and pharmacology (if a student chooses to take a course in nutrition and pharmacology) is a C+. Online RN-BSN Students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher to progress each semester.
