On August 4, 2026, American Public University System combined with Rasmussen University and Hondros College of Nursing to form a single higher education institution. American Public University System (the System) now includes American Public University, American Military University, Rasmussen University, and Hondros College of Nursing. The System is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a wholly owned subsidiary of American Public Education, Inc. (APEI). We are continuing to update our website to reflect our new structure.
Answer the Nursing Call with Rasmussen
Start Your Next Chapter with a Laptop
At Rasmussen University, your success is important to us—let’s make sure you have the right gear to see you through. When you’re eligible and start in select programs on or after November 12, 2026, you can get a brand-new laptop pre-installed with essential software.
Nursing Leader
Rasmussen University is proud to be a national leader in nursing education
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Start dates per year at many campuses
CCNE
CCNE-accredited BSN, MSN, DNP and post-graduate APRN certificate, also known as a Post-Graduate Nursing Certificate, programs
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Cost Application Fee
Where Compassion Meets Career
Arnold is a veteran, entrepreneur, cancer survivor, father and husband—he knew his heart was meant to serve others, this time as a BSN degree student. Nursing appealed to Arnold not only because of the healing impact his own nurses had on him, but because he knew he could have that same impact on others. Despite not having nursing experience, Arnold knew his unique perspective would be valued at Rasmussen and help him become a better nurse.
Just like Arnold, your unique perspective is the key to impacting the lives of others as a nurse. With a variety of Nursing degrees and support services like tutoring, library and research services, tech support and more, Rasmussen can help you take your next step.
Ready to Learn More?
View transcript (Scroll to see full transcript)
Speaker 1:
My name is Arnold Bogerty, and prior to me enrolling in Rasmussen, I spent 16 years in the military, 12 in Special Forces as an army Green Beret. I ended up getting injured over in Afghanistan and that allowed me to retire a little bit early. My wife and I, we moved down here to Tampa, but there was an experience that kind of changed my life a little bit. A few years ago, I was diagnosed with vocal cord cancer. It was really a turning point.
I decided to become a nurse because of the care that was provided for me. I don't have too many fears in life, but I do fear of being forgotten. And I know that if you can do something to make an impact in other people's lives, you know, you leave a legacy. And I think that's the greatest satisfaction in the world, is to be able to impact somebody else. And that's what nursing does.
Speaker 2:
The advice that, that I, I would give to Arnold to start a new career in nursing is to bring forward your previous experiences. And, um, because it would make him a very unique nurse, it would bring a different purpose and a meaning for him.
Speaker 3:
When Arnold first told me that he wanted to become a nurse, it really took me by surprise. Within one week, he was ready trying to figure out what school he was going to go to. He within the month, he, he already started school within that month. Like he is just, he doesn't stop.
Speaker 1:
I was recommended to Rasmussen by a former student, and she said she loved the culture. She said it was a family atmosphere. You weren't just a number. And so, I went to visit the campus and as soon as I walked in, the way we were greeted—I was actually greeted by another veteran and he showed me around the campus. And so that really made me feel right at home.
The facilities were amazing. I met with an enrollment counselor, and it was very simple. She was knowledgeable, knew exactly, you know, what the program had to offer. She answered all of my questions. I knew before I left if that was the school that I was going to attend. Well, in the immediate future with my degree, I plan on working at the hospital, you know, after I get my BSN. But I also plan on continuing my education as well.
The ultimate goal is to become a nurse anesthetist. You know, once my boys go off to school and me and my wife are empty nesters, you know, to travel and to do traveling, nursing, that way we can see the world; we can see the country, and we can also make an impact as well in other people's lives.
The advice that I would give to someone who, who may be considering their career in nursing is one, just do it. Don't allow other people's opinions or biases, you know, stop you from achieving your goal. You know, you're never too old to start over.
Nursing Degrees for Every Path
Your path to nursing is uniquely your own. Whether you’re just starting out, already have a nursing degree or you’re coming from another healthcare or military role, your experiences will help move you forward in your education. At Rasmussen University, we have the programs and support you need to turn your passion for helping others into a fulfilling career.
Pre-Licensure Programs
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Practical Nursing Diploma
In as few as 15 months, learn compassionate patient care and receive extensive preparation for the NCLEX-PN® exam to begin your path as an LPN.
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LPN to RN Bridge
Ready to take your nursing career to the next level and pursue your RN license? Choose our ADN or BSN program and we can help get you there. As an LPN, you can finish your ADN/RN in as few as 18 months with our LPN to RN bridge.
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Professional Nursing/Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN)
Make the choice to change lives, including your own, as an RN. Our ADN program is designed to help you gain the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to sit for the NCLEX-RN® exam— in as few as 21 months.
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Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
When you're ready to make a greater impact at the Bachelor’s level, we have three paths to get you there quickly, all CCNE-accredited:
- BSN Standard Degree: for those pursuing their first Bachelor’s degree; can be completed in as few as 33 months.
- BSN Second Degree: for those with a Bachelor’s degree in another field now looking to complete their BSN; can be completed in as few as 18 months.
- RN to BSN: for currently licensed RNs with Associate’s degrees; can be completed in 12 months.
Ready to Learn More?
Post-Licensure Programs
The MSN-NP, DNP, Post-Graduate Certificate – Nursing, and Post Graduate Certificate Nurse Practitioner programs are eligible for participation in Title IV federal student aid programs, effective February 9,2026, applicable to the Winter 2026 quarter. Students who started these programs in previous quarters are not eligible to utilize Title IV student aid for any term prior to Winter 2026.
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RN to BSN Entry Option
Are you a licensed nurse? Currently licensed RNs can prepare for a leadership role through our online RN to BSN entry track. Earn your CCNE-accredited Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, and move ahead in your nursing education.
- Transfer or waive up to 134 credits—nearly 75% of program requirements
- Finish in 12 months
- Earn for an estimated $11,490 tuition and fees
- Take courses on your schedule as you continue working
- Develop a professional identity as an advocate and leader
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Master of Science in Nursing
Our CCNE-accredited program can help set you apart even further. Designed specifically for working registered nurses with a BSN, our program combines online coursework with practicum experiences. In as few as 18 months, or in as few as 27 months for the Nurse Practitioner (NP) specializations, you’ll be ready to take your next step as a nursing leader and into advanced practice.
Your nursing talents and goals are unique, which is why we designed our online MSN program with a choice of specializations.
MSN Specializations:
- Nursing Leadership and Administration
- Nursing Education
- Healthcare Technology, Simulation and Informatics
MSN Nurse Practitioner (NP) Specializations:
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP (AGPCNP)
- Family NP (FNP)
- Pediatric Primary Care NP (PPCNP)
- Psychiatric-Mental Health NP (PMHNP)
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Post-Graduate Nursing Certificate
Nurses are now able to expand their skills without being required to complete an additional degree. That means you can focus on the courses in your new specialization if you are an RN with a graduate degree, such as an MSN, MSN-NP or DNP.
- Nursing Leadership and Administration
- Nursing Education
- Healthcare Technology, Simulation and Informatics
Nurse Practitioner Specializations:
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP (AGPCNP)
- Family NP (FNP)
- Pediatric Primary Care NP (PPCNP)
- Psychiatric-Mental Health NP (PMHNP)
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Doctor of Nursing Practice
The DNP blends online coursework and practicum experiences, with a choice of two specialization areas:
- Executive Leadership: Promote forward thinking within healthcare systems to provide quality care to diverse patients and populations.
- Public Health and Policy: Lead public health and policy work to improve the health of individuals and communities.
While these programs are available in many states, they are not available to residents of all states. Please speak with an admissions representative to determine your eligibility for enrollment.
Ready to Learn More?
We'll support you at every step with:
- Academic advising
- 24/7 tech support
- Tutoring and mentoring
- Financial aid for those who qualify
- Nursing-focused support for your library research and writing