The RN-BSN bridge course: transitioning the re-entry learner

BACKGROUND: Although most RN-to-BSN programs offer bridge courses, little can be found in the literature about common course objectives, content, or outcomes.

METHOD: This article details course objectives, course content, course implementation, and preliminary outcomes of a primarily distance learning RN-to-BSN bridge course at a northern California university.

RESULTS: Preliminary outcome assessments suggested greater than expected increases in role and campus socialization, as well as computer literacy, as a result of RN-to-BSN bridge course implementation.

CONCLUSION: The RN-to-BSN bridge course can successfully be used to transition the re-entry student and may be the link allowing RN-to-BSN students to effectively face the concurrent challenges of role socialization and computer literacy while mastering course content and course objectives.