BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing)

What is a BSN?

A BSN, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, is an undergraduate degree that prepares students to become registered nurses (RNs). BSN programs combine nursing coursework, clinical experiences, and general education classes to help students build the knowledge and skills needed to care for patients across a wide range of healthcare settings.

At University of Bridgeport, our BSN program equips students with the clinical training, professional skills, and real-world experience needed to enter the nursing field with confidence.

What does a BSN prepare you to do?

A BSN prepares graduates to care for patients in a variety of healthcare settings. Nurses with a BSN learn how to assess patient conditions, deliver treatments, work collaboratively with healthcare teams, and support patient safety and well-being. This degree also helps students develop critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills that are essential in modern healthcare.

Key aspects of a BSN degree

A BSN degree provides both the academic foundation and the practical experience needed for professional nursing practice. While specific program details vary by school, BSN programs generally emphasize clinical readiness, patient-centered care, and preparation for licensure.

Curriculum

BSN programs include coursework in nursing fundamentals, health assessment, pathophysiology, pharmacology, community health, leadership, and ethics. Students also complete clinical training to apply classroom knowledge in real healthcare environments. At UB, BSN students gain hands-on experience through clinical placements, lab work, and simulation-based learning designed to reflect real scenarios.

View the full BSN curriculum at University of Bridgeport to learn more.

Program length

A traditional BSN program is typically completed over four years. Students begin with foundational coursework before progressing into advanced nursing classes and clinical experiences.

Licensing

Graduates of a BSN program are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam. Passing the NCLEX-RN is required to become a licensed registered nurse.

Career opportunities

With a BSN, graduates may pursue nursing roles in hospitals, clinics, schools, community health organizations, and other healthcare settings. The degree also supports advancement into leadership, specialty nursing, and graduate education.

RN to BSN programs

For nurses who are already licensed, many universities — including University of Bridgeport — offer RN to BSN programs. These programs allow registered nurses with an associate degree or diploma to earn a BSN, strengthen clinical and leadership skills, and expand career opportunities while continuing to work in the field.