- Work toward your BSN before you complete your ADN
- Enroll in fully online courses during the summer
- Transfer these courses to CSULB's RN to BSN program
Step-Up Bridge Program
Academic Course (University Credit)
Put your BSN on the fast track with CSULB’s School of Nursing!
The fully online Step-Up Bridge Program allows students currently enrolled in an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program to take non-clinical Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) courses prior to completing their ADN. These courses can then be transferred to CSULB's online RN to BSN program, helping learners to achieve their goals sooner.
The application will be available beginning on February 1, 2026.
The CSULB School of Nursing is ranked the #1 Best Bachelor Degree in Nursing Program in California and the #5 Best Bachelor Degree in Nursing in the U.S. (RNCareers.org).
Students enrolled in the Step-Up Bridge Program may take the following courses. All courses listed below will automatically transfer into the RN to BSN programs at CSULB.
- NRSG 309 - Introduction to Professional Practice
- NRSG 306 - Pathophysiology/Pharmacology for RNs
- NRSG 314 - Health Assessment for RNs
- The application will be available beginning on February 1, 2026.
- Successfully complete first semester in an ADN program*
- Students may apply during their first semester as long as they will have completed the semester by the program start date
- Minimum 2.75 GPA in Nursing courses and minimum 2.75 overall GPA
* Must be a nationally accredited nursing program and a regionally accredited college/university. If you do not know this information, contact your ADN Program office.
Transition to the RN to BSN Program
Please Note: Acceptance to and participation in the Step-Up Bridge Program does not guarantee admission into CSULB's online RN to BSN program. Participants must still complete an application for their intended RN to BSN program upon completion of their ADN.
Courses completed through this program are automatically transferred into the RN to BSN degree program at CSULB. Other courses (including non-nursing courses) are subject to review and approval by Enrollment Services at the time of RN to BSN application. Visit assist.org to determine course articulations.
