RN-BSN FAQs

Am I able to visit campus to learn more about this program? 

We do offer a campus virtual tour and multiple information sessions to educate prospective students about the programs we offer in the College of Nursing. For more information on current sessions and when tours will resume, please visit our campus tours page.

What prerequisite courses are needed for admission?

This site lists the prerequisite coursework for College of Nursing students: RN-BSN admission requirements

How do I determine which courses will meet the prerequisite coursework and transfer to the College of Nursing?

Many prospective students find it helpful to request an unofficial transcript evaluation. Please scan and e-mail your transcripts to conservices@musc.edu.

If I am still enrolled in prerequisite coursework, can I still apply?

Yes, coursework may be in progress when you make an application to the College of Nursing. However, it must be completed with a grade of “C” or better prior to your matriculation (or start) date at the College of Nursing. Students may not begin their MUSC coursework without having all prerequisite coursework completed.

How do I apply for admission?

MUSC College of Nursing participates in an online Nursing Centralized Application Service (NursingCAS) to receive applications. You must create an account, search for this program for your intended semester of entry, and complete the required steps to apply online. All application materials must be submitted through NursingCAS. A supplemental university application, through MUSC’s Office of Enrollment Management, is also required. We encourage applicants to finish the application within NursingCAS before submitting the supplemental MUSC application. 

What is required for the admission packet?

The application, the application fee, official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended (even if it was just one course), three completed reference forms (provided with the application), a resume, and a response to a short 100-word essay. The current essay asks applicants to respond to this statement: “How do you contribute to the diversity of the College of Nursing?”

May I submit reference letters instead of forms?

No, we must receive the official reference forms. Generally, we prefer academic and/or professional references. These forms will be available when you begin the application process. They may be sent to the person providing the reference electronically or you may download and provide to the reference personally.

What does the admission committee look for in a strong application?

The rubric for admission includes:

• Work experience = 20%
• Essay (100 words or less) = 15%
• Leadership = 15%
• References (scoring 1-10) = 15%
• Prerequisites GPA = 15%
• CUM GPA = 10%
• RN GPA  10%

Do you accept international students?

No, due to several distance-education components of this program, MUSC is unable to issue- I-20 forms to allow students to obtain F-1 student visas. Only U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and those holding other valid U.S. visas will be accepted.

Is financial aid available?

Tuition and fees are reviewed annually and approved by the MUSC Board of Trustees. Please go to this site for a comprehensive student budget.

For more information about financial aid.

Are scholarships available?

Scholarships are available to students who have completed a FAFSA and short College of Nursing scholarship application. They are awarded based on need, academic merit, and scholarship criteria after a student has been admitted to the College of Nursing. The listing of available scholarships and applications can be found at http://academicdepartments.musc.edu/nursing/administration/studentservices/muscfoundationscholarships.htm

Can I enroll part-time?

Yes, students can be admitted on either a part-time or full-time plan of study. 

What is the access to faculty, preceptors, and technology support?

Online students will have access to College of Nursing faculty and advisors through established "office hours" when synchronous communication can occur via videoconferencing, email, or telephone. Faculty and students may choose to make additional arrangements to meet. Students at a distance can use regional experts as preceptors. Technology support is available Monday - Friday via the Technology Help  Desk.

Is MUSC’s RN-BSN program an approved online program in my state?

MUSC’s RN-BSN program is approved to offer online distance education to students in all SARA states and California. Additional information can be found here.  Out-of-state applicants and students are responsible for contacting their State Board of Nursing to determine any requirements that are needed in order to complete clinical rotations as a distance student.  The NCSBN provides a quick search of Prelicensure Distance Education Requirements per state.

If I intend to move, what is necessary to obtain licensure in another state?

The Board of Nursing for each state dictates licensure requirements for Registered Nurses. MUSC College of Nursing applicants and students should familiarize themselves with the requirements for the state(s) in which they intend to practice using this site.