Fact vs. Myth: The RN to BS Program at the University at Buffalo
New York’s BSN in 10 bill – signed into law in 2017 – created a requirement for registered nurses graduating from associate degree or diploma programs to earn a BSN within 10 years of licensure.
To accommodate working nurses, University at Buffalo’s RN to BS program is flexible in nature and is designed to make the process of attaining a bachelor’s degree in nursing as stress-free as possible. Below, you will find some common myths and facts about our nationally ranked RN to BS program and our admissions process.
The RN to BS program is highly competitive: Myth.
Due to the nature of the BSN in 10 requirement, it is important that all licensed registered nurses have access to a BSN program. We recommend a minimum 2.5 GPA; however, we will still review applicants whose GPA falls below that threshold. To be reviewed under the 2.5 GPA, supplemental materials will be required, and those will be sent to you upon application review.
The 2.5 GPA requirement is my cumulative GPA, not my nursing GPA: Fact.
When admitting for the RN to BS program, we look at your cumulative GPA, not just your grades for nursing courses.
I need work experience as a nurse prior to the program: Myth.
While nursing work experience is helpful, it is not required for admission into the program. You do, however, need to submit employment attestation prior to your last semester in the program. The employment attestation will notify the school of where you are working and in what capacity. This employment will be utilized in your UB Capstone Course for a practical experience.
I must have my RN license prior to applying/being admitted to the program: Myth.
You do not need your RN license to apply or to be admitted to the RN to BS program. You do, however, need proof that you passed the NCLEX-RN exam prior to the start of your second semester in the program.
The program can be completed part-time or full-time: Fact.
The program is flexible and can be completed through either a part-time (two years) or full-time (one year) track. If you start the program on a full-time track, you may switch to part-time at any time in the program; if you start part-time, you may increase to full-time at any time as well.
-Sarah Bauch
Published July 7, 2023