Thomas Reed, RN
June 19, 2025
BSN bridge programs provide registered nurses with a diploma or associate degree in nursing a path to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. The programs function as essential educational pathways for enhancing healthcare services especially in diverse communities and rural areas of Hawaii. BSN-prepared nurses demonstrate superior clinical expertise and leadership abilities together with cultural awareness which proves highly beneficial for Hawaii’s distinct population demographics.
Honolulu, HI - Public 4-Year - manoa.hawaii.edu
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Hawaii at Manoa's Online RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program offers registered nurses a flexible pathway to advance their professional credentials. Designed for Associate Degree and Diploma nursing graduates, this part-time and full-time online program enhances professional development and provides comprehensive nursing education. Students can build upon their current nursing knowledge, develop critical thinking skills, and prepare for leadership roles in healthcare. The program follows the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Essentials framework, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to deliver high-quality, client-centered care across diverse healthcare settings.
Hilo, HI - Public 4-Year - hilo.hawaii.edu
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Hawaii at Hilo's RN to BSN program provides a flexible, online pathway for registered nurses to advance their education. Designed for working professionals, the program offers convenient asynchronous learning with competitive tuition rates. Students can complete their degree part-time, with multiple start dates annually and opportunities to earn credit for prior nursing experience. The curriculum emphasizes transcultural nursing, community health, and leadership skills in a supportive, personalized learning environment.
Honolulu, HI - Private 4-year - hpu.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Hawaii Pacific University's RN to BSN program provides registered nurses with an advanced educational pathway to enhance their professional nursing credentials. The program prepares nurses for diverse healthcare settings, offering comprehensive theoretical and practical experiences across medical specialties. Students benefit from an accredited curriculum that emphasizes professional development, critical thinking, and preparation for potential graduate studies. With a focus on lifelong learning and humanitarian service, the program enables nurses to expand their clinical expertise and career opportunities in hospitals, community clinics, public health, and home healthcare environments.
Hawaii provides students with three RN to BSN program options: online programs, hybrid models and in-person classroom learning. Online programs have gained popularity among Hawaii students because they serve the state’s island population. The programs enable nurses with licenses to study from any location while using flexible asynchronous learning which accommodates work schedules. The online programs include local clinical requirements which allow students to meet their practicum needs in their local communities. Students who want to combine online learning with occasional face-to-face sessions should choose hybrid programs which provide flexibility. Nurses who need traditional classroom instruction can enroll in campus-based programs but these programs tend to be located in urban areas such as Honolulu.
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| University of Hawaii at Manoa |
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| University of Hawaii at Hilo |
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| Hawaii Pacific University |
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| Certifying Board | Hawaii Board of Nursing (PVLD, DCCA) |
|---|---|
| Certification | Graduate an approved BSN program, submit transcript and fingerprint clearance, and pass the NCLEX‑RN |
| License Renewal Period | Biennial renewal by June 30 of odd‑numbered years |
| Continuing Education | One Board‑approved learning activity per cycle (e.g., 30 CE hours or equivalent) |
| License Application Fee | $60 application + $200 NCLEX registration |
| Clinical Hours | Required practicum hours verified by official transcripts |
| Application Processing Time | 45–60 business days after receipt of a complete application |
| License by Endorsement | Fee $166–234 + $60 center fee, submit active‑license verification, transcripts, fingerprints |
The registered nursing profession in Hawaii generates among the highest pay rates in the United States with annual wages reaching approximately $120,000. BSN-educated nurses typically start with similar compensation to associate degree RNs but eventually qualify for advanced leadership positions and specialized roles. BSN credentials have become essential for hospital and healthcare system advancement so these graduates obtain competitive advantages. The job market for RNs in Hawaii remains positive because of population aging together with workforce retirement and ongoing healthcare requirements throughout the islands. The healthcare sector shows high demand for nursing professionals in both rural locations and remote islands because of their limited access to medical care. BSN-prepared nurses possess unique value in these communities because they can handle complex patient care and direct health programs. The BSN degree enhances both your career earnings and provides you with job security while providing multiple professional choices within Hawaii’s healthcare sector.
| Salary & Career Outlook | Hawaii | USA |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Annual BSN Salary | $88,400 | $62,340 |
| Avg Hourly Wage | $42.50 | $29.97 |
| 90th Percentile Salary | >$105,000 | $80,510 |
| Median Salary | $88,400 | $62,340 |
| 10th Percentile Salary | <$60,000 | $47,960 |
| Projected Job Growth (2022-2032) | 8% | 3% |
| Annual Job Openings | ~150 | ~54,000 |
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| University of Hawaii at Hilo |
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| University of Hawaii at Manoa |
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| Hawaii Pacific University |
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Following their BSN education, a nurse in Hawaii has different career opportunities in the way of advancement. BSN nurses can apply for leadership positions such as charge nurse, unit coordinator and nurse manager. The BSN gives a nurse the ability to work in the public health, education, and case management areas. Master of Science in Nursing and Doctor of Nursing Practice programs prepare students to become nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, and nurse educators after receiving a BSN degree. The BSN designation also allows nurses to earn national certifications in critical care along with pediatric and oncology specialties, which typically require a bachelor’s degree. Professional acknowledgement and enhanced employment opportunities also come with these qualifications. Nurses have professional growth opportunities in quality improvement work, informatics, and healthcare administration fields, as well with a BSN. BSN degree completion provides Hawaii nurses with an increased scope of practice, improved leadership skills and expanded career opportunities.
Additional Nursing Programs in Hawaii
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