3 Best Online Holistic RN to BSN Programs – 2024
Written By: Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA
Are you an RN considering earning a baccalaureate degree in nursing? Do you love caring for patients but want to learn ways to connect with them on a deeper level? Does the idea of providing care that addresses every part of your patient’s being interest you? If so, holistic nursing is an excellent pathway to pursue, and a holistic RN to BSN program is a great option to consider.
If learning more about holistic nursing interests you but you do not feel you can commit the time to a campus-based program, there are online options. Perhaps you have considered online learning but wonder, “What are the best online holistic RN to BSN programs?” As you continue reading, you will find the answer to that question as I share the 3 best online holistic RN to BSN programs for 2024. In addition to learning about program costs, curriculum, and admission requirements, I will share some advantages and disadvantages of these programs and provide insight into your earning potential and job outlook.
What Exactly is the Goal of an Online Holistic RN to BSN Program?
The goal of online holistic RN to BSN programs is to prepare registered nurses with the highest undergraduate nursing degree, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, specializing in a patient-oriented, whole-person approach to nursing care. In these programs, you will learn to treat all areas of your patient, including their emotional, cognitive, and socioeconomic statuses. The programs focus on all aspects of patient care and factor in spiritual beliefs, culture, personal preference, and clinical needs.
3 Main Advantages of Online Holistic RN to BSN Programs
If you are considering earning your degree through holistic RN to BSN online programs, knowing the advantages and disadvantages is important. When you compare the pros and cons, you can make a more informed decision and choose the program best suited for you. The following are three main advantages of earning your degree through one of these special programs.
1. You will learn to look beyond clinical symptoms and see your patients as a “whole being”:
Holistic nursing is based on the premise that a person’s being is comprised of social, spiritual, biological, and psychological aspects. As such, to provide effective care, it is necessary to address all aspects of the patient, or his “whole being.” One of the advantages of holistic RN to BSN online programs is that you will learn to do more than treat your patient’s obvious clinical symptoms. Instead, you will develop the ability to assess all areas of your patient’s being and develop individualized care plans based on their unique needs.2. Holistic nursing contributes to patient satisfaction and compliance, resulting in improved patient outcomes:
When we use a holistic approach to care, patients feel they have more of a say in their care, which causes a sense of satisfaction. In turn, when patients feel satisfied with their providers and care plans, the chances of compliance increase, which leads to improved outcomes.3. Using a holistic nursing approach helps foster better nurse-patient relationships:
I have always loved the idea of holistic approaches to healthcare. My personal experiences as both a patient and as a nurse have helped me grasp the idea of holistic care and guided me to develop an approach to caring for my clients that acknowledges them as unique individuals. Holistic nursing programs, like the online holistic RN to BSN programs featured in this article, help us identify individual characteristics and needs in our patients and acknowledge them, which makes them feel valued and helps us build stronger nurse-patient relationships.2 Main Disadvantages of Online Holistic RN to BSN Programs
There are pros and cons to every college program and career option. Knowing what to expect, comparing the advantages and disadvantages, and weighing them against your academic and career goals can help you decide whether to pursue this path or not. The following are two main disadvantages of online holistic RN to BSN programs to consider.
1. You must be willing to “think outside the box”:
Holistic nursing requires us to understand not only the patient’s biomedical issues, but we must also consider their psychological, spiritual, social, economic, and cultural needs. When you earn your BSN specializing in holistic nursing, you will learn the concept of a patient-centered approach. However, the practice of thinking outside the box and applying that approach effectively takes patience and practice.2. Holistic nursing can be emotionally taxing:
One of the advantages of holistic nursing is that it encompasses every aspect of a patient’s being. Unfortunately, the concept of approaching patient care with a whole-person approach can leave you feeling emotionally overwhelmed, which means it can be a disadvantage, as well. Although online holistic RN to BSN programs teach you about patient-centered care and ways to implement holistic nursing interventions, the task of dealing with every aspect of a patient’s being (social, spiritual, emotional, etc.) may lead to you feeling emotionally drained.When Do Holistic RN to BSN Online Programs Start?
Holistic RN to BSN online programs start at various times, depending on the school offering the program. Schools with larger faculty pools or multiple clinical affiliations may offer their programs more frequently than smaller schools. The following are a few examples of the start times for the nation’s top three programs.
• Pacific College of Health and Science offers two start dates each year for its holistic RN to BSN online program. You may choose to begin your studies in the spring or fall semester.
• Northern New Mexico College begins classes three times each year, in the fall, spring, and summer semesters.
• At Joyce University, start dates are offered in the spring, summer, and fall semesters of each year.
• Northern New Mexico College begins classes three times each year, in the fall, spring, and summer semesters.
• At Joyce University, start dates are offered in the spring, summer, and fall semesters of each year.
How Many Credits are There in Holistic RN to BSN Online Programs?
The curriculum for online holistic RN to BSN programs varies somewhat between schools. Most programs require students to complete between 30 and 60 credits. As you research programs and begin applying, it is important to submit official transcripts from previous colleges or universities. Your previous credits, especially those earned in an associate nursing program, will be evaluated to determine how many are transferable.
• At Pacific College of Health and Science, you will complete 42 to 60 credits. The curriculum includes 12 to 18 didactic and clinical courses. The number of credits you must complete is determined by your previous education.
• The holistic RN to BSN online program at Northern New Mexico College requires students to earn a total of 120-122 credit hours to graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in holistic nursing. These credits include at least 40 lower-division courses, including those earned in your associate nursing program, general education and support courses, and 34 upper-division credits. The actual number of credits you earn at the college will be determined by analysis of your previous nursing degree and transferable credits.
• Joyce University's online holistic RN to BSN program features a 51-credit curriculum.
• The holistic RN to BSN online program at Northern New Mexico College requires students to earn a total of 120-122 credit hours to graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in holistic nursing. These credits include at least 40 lower-division courses, including those earned in your associate nursing program, general education and support courses, and 34 upper-division credits. The actual number of credits you earn at the college will be determined by analysis of your previous nursing degree and transferable credits.
• Joyce University's online holistic RN to BSN program features a 51-credit curriculum.
How Long are Holistic RN to BSN Online Programs?
It usually takes one to two years to complete holistic RN to BSN online programs. Some schools give students the option of part-time or full-time study, giving you freedom to choose a schedule that fits your current schedule and aligns with your personal goals.
• Pacific College of Health and Science offers part-time and full-time study options for its holistic RN to BSN online program. If you enroll part-time, you can complete the program in seven to nine terms. Full-time students typically complete the program in four terms.
• At Northern New Mexico College, you can earn your BSN specializing in holistic nursing in two years.
• The online RN to BSN holistic nursing program at Joyce University is designed to be completed in four semesters.
• At Northern New Mexico College, you can earn your BSN specializing in holistic nursing in two years.
• The online RN to BSN holistic nursing program at Joyce University is designed to be completed in four semesters.
How Much Do Holistic RN to BSN Online Programs Cost?
The top three online holistic RN to BSN programs featured in this article cost between $9,180 and $26,270. Some schools charge different rates based on whether you live in the state or are an out-of-state student. Others have the same tuition rate for all students, regardless of residency status. The following list reflects the cost of our featured programs. Unless otherwise stated, the cost listed is for tuition only.
• The online holistic RN to BSN program at Pacific College of Health and Science costs between $13,199 and $26,270. The final cost of tuition is determined by the number of transfer credits you have.
• Northern New Mexico College charges $270 per credit hour for both in-state and out-of-state students. The online holistic RN to BSN program requires you to complete 34 credits, which makes the program’s tuition cost $9,180.
• Tuition for the holistic RN to BSN online program at Joyce University costs $26,115.
• Northern New Mexico College charges $270 per credit hour for both in-state and out-of-state students. The online holistic RN to BSN program requires you to complete 34 credits, which makes the program’s tuition cost $9,180.
• Tuition for the holistic RN to BSN online program at Joyce University costs $26,115.
What is the Minimum GPA Required to Get Into Online Holistic RN to BSN Programs?
Holistic RN to BSN online programs typically require applicants to have a cumulative college grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 grading scale. However, some schools allow students with lower GPAs. For example, Pacific College of Health and Science and Northern New Mexico college each require candidates to have a 3.0 GPA. Joyce University, however, accepts students with a 2.0 college grade point average.
What are the Admission Requirements For Online Holistic RN to BSN Programs?
In addition to meeting grade point average requirements, holistic RN to BSN online programs require applicants to meet additional admission criteria. All programs require candidates to have a license to practice as a registered nurse. Some schools require work experience as an RN, but this requirement varies. If you plan to apply to more than one program, carefully review the admission criteria for each program before submitting your application and required documents to ensure your application is complete, which can prevent delays in the application process.
• At Pacific College of Health and Science, you must complete a Pacific College Application and submit a personal statement describing your reason for entering the field of holistic medicine. You must have an active RN license, be a graduate of an accredited associate nursing degree program and provide transcripts from all post-secondary schools you attended reflecting a minimum 3.0 college GPA and participate in an admissions interview.
• To be admitted to Northern New Mexico College’s holistic RN to BSN online program, you must have completed an associate degree in nursing or a nursing diploma program from an accredited school. You must have a valid, unrestricted license to practice as an RN. Candidates must submit official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended, request an official transcript evaluation through the RN to BSN admissions office, and fill out the Application Form for the RN to BSN Program.
• Admission requirements for Joyce University’s program include the following. You must possess an associate degree in nursing earned from an accredited nursing program and have and maintain an active, unrestricted RN license. All candidates must complete an online readiness assessment and pass a mental/physical health examination, a background check, and a drug screening test. You must provide official transcripts from all colleges or universities you attended with a minimum 2.0 grade point average, a professional resume, and an admissions essay.
• To be admitted to Northern New Mexico College’s holistic RN to BSN online program, you must have completed an associate degree in nursing or a nursing diploma program from an accredited school. You must have a valid, unrestricted license to practice as an RN. Candidates must submit official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended, request an official transcript evaluation through the RN to BSN admissions office, and fill out the Application Form for the RN to BSN Program.
• Admission requirements for Joyce University’s program include the following. You must possess an associate degree in nursing earned from an accredited nursing program and have and maintain an active, unrestricted RN license. All candidates must complete an online readiness assessment and pass a mental/physical health examination, a background check, and a drug screening test. You must provide official transcripts from all colleges or universities you attended with a minimum 2.0 grade point average, a professional resume, and an admissions essay.
What Kind of Courses Will You Take in Online Holistic RN to BSN Programs?
Coursework for online holistic RN to BSN programs typically includes baccalaureate-level general education courses, support courses, upper-division nursing courses, and specialty-relevant courses. Classes may vary depending on the school you choose. Additionally, the courses you are required to take will be determined after review of your transcripts from your associate nursing degree program. The following are examples of some classes offered in some of the nation’s top programs.
• The curriculum for the online holistic RN to BSN program at Pacific College of Health and Science includes classes such as The Nurse as a Facilitator of Healing: Roles & Modalities, Human-Centered Leadership, Psychoneuroimmunology, Theoretical Foundations of Holistic Nursing, and Issues & Trends in Holistic Nursing. The college also offers a wide range of electives and support courses, including courses that lead to a Medical Cannabis Certification.
• At Northern New Mexico College, you will take classes, including Complementary & Integrative Therapies in Nursing, Integral Health Assessment, An Integral Approach to Evidence-Based Practice, Health Issues, Policy & Politics in Healthcare, Community & Global Health, and Transformational Leadership in Nursing.
• Joyce University students in the online RN to BSN holistic nursing program study in classes, including Genetics, Genomics, & Ethics in Nursing, Population Focused Nursing Care, Scholarly Development & Evidence-Based Practice, Holistic & Alternative Therapies in Healthcare, and Professional Identity Formation.
• At Northern New Mexico College, you will take classes, including Complementary & Integrative Therapies in Nursing, Integral Health Assessment, An Integral Approach to Evidence-Based Practice, Health Issues, Policy & Politics in Healthcare, Community & Global Health, and Transformational Leadership in Nursing.
• Joyce University students in the online RN to BSN holistic nursing program study in classes, including Genetics, Genomics, & Ethics in Nursing, Population Focused Nursing Care, Scholarly Development & Evidence-Based Practice, Holistic & Alternative Therapies in Healthcare, and Professional Identity Formation.
What Kind of Practical Training Will You Undergo in Online Holistic RN to BSN Programs?
Practical training or clinicals are an essential part of online holistic RN to BSN programs. In practical training, you will have the opportunity to build upon your nursing skills from your associate nursing degree and apply principles of holistic nursing.
• Practical training at Pacific College of Health and Science includes one community health clinical practicum that can be conveniently completed in your hometown. Clinical advisors help facilitate clinical sites and arrange preceptors to assist you through the clinical component of the program.
• At Northern New Mexico College, you will complete between 135 and 500 direct care clinical practicum hours. The college offers clinical placement assistance to ensure you have quality clinical experiences with experienced preceptors. In addition to practical training, you will complete an Integral Nursing Capstone Course and Capstone Project. The Capstone Course is primarily self-directed and based upon creating a senior portfolio demonstrating learning in affective, psychomotor, and cognitive domains and mastery of the program’s objectives.
• At Joyce University, practical training can be completed in your hometown. The online RN to BSN holistic nursing program features only 45 clinical practicum hours.
• At Northern New Mexico College, you will complete between 135 and 500 direct care clinical practicum hours. The college offers clinical placement assistance to ensure you have quality clinical experiences with experienced preceptors. In addition to practical training, you will complete an Integral Nursing Capstone Course and Capstone Project. The Capstone Course is primarily self-directed and based upon creating a senior portfolio demonstrating learning in affective, psychomotor, and cognitive domains and mastery of the program’s objectives.
• At Joyce University, practical training can be completed in your hometown. The online RN to BSN holistic nursing program features only 45 clinical practicum hours.
What are the Best Online Holistic RN to BSN Programs in the Nation?
(Based on our ranking methodology, the following are the 3 Best Online Holistic RN To BSN Programs in the nation for the year 2024.)1. Pacific College of Health and Science - Chicago, IL
2. Northern New Mexico College - Espanola, NM
3. Joyce University - Draper, UT
What Starting Salary Can New Graduates of This Program Expect?
The starting salary for new graduates of online holistic RN to BSN programs is $59,560 per year. This salary equals $28.63 per hour, $1,145 per week, or $4,960 per month.
| Hourly | $28.63 |
| Weekly | $1,145 |
| Monthly | $4,960 |
| Annual | $59,560 |
| (Source: Ziprecruiter.com) | |
What Average Salary Can Graduates of Holistic RN to BSN Online Programs Expect?
The average annual salary for graduates of holistic RN to BSN online programs is $86,547. This pay is equivalent to $41.61 hourly, $1,664 weekly, or $7,210 monthly.
| Hourly | $41.61 |
| Weekly | $1,664 |
| Monthly | $7,210 |
| Annual | $86,547 |
| (Source: Ziprecruiter.com) | |
10-Year Job Outlook For Graduates of Holistic RN to BSN Online Programs
The job market for graduates of holistic RN to BSN online programs has a positive outlook. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in this field for BSN-prepared nurses will increase by at least 6.24% between now and 2031.
| 2021-31 | |
| +6.24% | |
| (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) | |
Bonus! is the Cost of an Online Holistic RN to BSN Program Worth the Return On Investment (ROI)?
I have written many articles about nursing and healthcare programs, and one of the most important things I believe all readers should consider when choosing a degree or career path is whether they will see a good return on investment. You can determine your potential ROI by comparing the cost of the degree to your potential income.
For example, the online holistic RN to BSN programs featured in this article cost between $9,180 and $26,270. New graduates of these programs earn more than $59,000 per year, with the average income for graduates being $86,547. When you compare these numbers, even if you choose the most expensive program, you can almost double your investment in your first year of work! With more experience and added benefits, your return on your investment will be well worth the cost of the program.
My Final Thoughts
If providing exceptional patient care focused on one’s whole being is the kind of nursing you want to practice, holistic nursing is a fantastic path to pursue. In this article, I shared information with you about the 3 best online holistic RN to BSN programs for 2024, answering the question, “What are the best online holistic RN to BSN programs?” If you are seeking a career where you can provide patient-centered care while earning a good income in a specialty with a good long-term job outlook, holistic RN to BSN programs are an excellent option for achieving your goals!
Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA
Darby Faubion is a nurse and Allied Health educator with over twenty years of experience. She has assisted in developing curriculum for nursing programs and has instructed students at both community college and university levels. Because of her love of nursing education, Darby became a test-taking strategist and NCLEX prep coach and assists nursing graduates across the United States who are preparing to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).