Maria Delgado, RN
June 19, 2025
District of Columbia RN-to-BSN programs build on an associate degree or diploma to prepare nurses for expanded roles in leadership, community health, and evidence-based practice. Offered by institutions such as the University of the District of Columbia, Howard University, Trinity Washington University, and George Washington University, these CCNE-accredited completion programs equip RNs for career advancement and graduate-level study.
Washington, DC - Private 4-year - howard.edu
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Howard University's RN to BSN online program offers registered nurses a flexible pathway to advance their nursing career. Designed for working professionals, this accelerated program can be completed in just 12 months. Nurses with an associate degree can seamlessly transition to a bachelor's degree, enhancing their clinical knowledge, leadership skills, and career opportunities. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, evidence-based practice, and culturally competent care across diverse healthcare settings.
Washington, DC - Private 4-year - trinitydc.edu
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Trinity's online RN to BSN program provides registered nurses with an associate's degree a flexible pathway to complete their bachelor's degree. The 100% online curriculum allows working nurses to advance their education and career opportunities. Students can complete the program in just one year, with the potential to transfer up to 32 nursing credits. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and offers financial support through the Conway Scholarship, which can provide significant tuition assistance.
Washington, DC - Public 4-Year - udc.edu
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Elevate your nursing career with the University of the District of Columbia's RN to BSN program, designed for working nurses seeking professional advancement. This online program provides a transformative educational experience that blends evidence-based practices, leadership development, and technology-driven learning. With small class sizes and a diverse student body, students gain comprehensive knowledge to excel in today's complex healthcare environment. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, interdisciplinary collaboration, and holistic patient care, preparing graduates to become innovative healthcare leaders who can drive positive health outcomes.
Didactic coursework is delivered fully online via asynchronous modules and occasional live webinars, with clinical skills labs and practicums arranged at local DC healthcare sites. A few programs offer optional on-campus intensives for simulation and peer collaboration, ensuring flexibility without sacrificing hands-on experience.
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Trinity Washington University |
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| Howard University |
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| University of the District of Columbia |
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| Certifying Board | District of Columbia Board of Nursing under DC Department of Health |
|---|---|
| Certification | Graduate of a Board‑approved BSN, submit transcripts, pass NCLEX‑RN, complete fingerprint background check |
| License Renewal Period | Biennial renewal on the last day of birth month, window opens mid‑April, due by June 30 |
| Continuing Education | 24 contact hours every two years (2 hours cultural competency, 3 hours public health priority) |
| License Application Fee | $85 application, $102 license, $50 background check, $200 NCLEX |
| Clinical Hours | Supervised practice in adult health, pediatrics, maternal‑newborn, psychiatric‑mental health, and community health |
| Application Processing Time | Authorization to Test issued on approval, allow up to 30 business days post‑exam for full license |
| License by Endorsement | $280 endorsement fee, verify RN license, submit transcripts and fingerprints |
BSN-prepared RNs in Washington, D.C. earn on average around $110,000 per year, roughly $5,000–$10,000 more than ADN-prepared peers, and qualify for higher-paying roles in leadership, specialty units, and case management.
| Salary & Career Outlook | District of Columbia | USA |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Annual BSN Salary | $95,200 | $62,340 |
| Avg Hourly Wage | $45.75 | $29.97 |
| 90th Percentile Salary | >$115,000 | $80,510 |
| Median Salary | $95,200 | $62,340 |
| 10th Percentile Salary | <$68,000 | $47,960 |
| Projected Job Growth (2022-2032) | 13% | 3% |
| Annual Job Openings | ~250 | ~54,000 |
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| University of the District of Columbia |
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| Trinity Washington University |
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| Howard University |
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Earning a BSN opens doors to graduate nursing studies (MSN, DNP, NP programs) and roles in clinical leadership, informatics, public health, and academia. Post-BSN specialty certificates, such as nursing education or population health, further expand career options without requiring a full graduate degree.
Additional Nursing Programs in District of Columbia
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