Rowan's nursing department has collaborated with Our Lady of Lourdes School of Nursing to develop an innovative, cooperative diploma/BSN degree program. Starting in Fall 2024, students will enter Rowan for their first year of this cooperative degree, taking foundational courses. They can then apply to the diploma program through Our Lady of Lourdes School of Nursing. Successful application to the diploma phase depends upon meeting academic requirements, and there are a limited number of spaces avaliable in the cooperative program*. Upon completion of the diploma program, students study for the NCLEX. Once becoming RNs, they can then complete the RN-BSN program to gain their bachelors degree. 

This program is designed to provide students the opportunity to acquire a highly sought after BSN degree, whose quality is enhanced through combining the expertise and strengths of Rowan's Department of Nursing and Our Lady of Lourdes School of Nursing.

*Applications for Fall 2024 entry into the BSN program are now closed. Please note: Students interested in pursuing a health-related field outside of nursing often select programs such as: Health & Science Communication, Exercise Science, Athletic Training, Health Promotion & Wellness Management, Human Services, Nutrition, or Public Health & Wellness as the next option. If you are interested in applying for Fall 2024 entry as a first-year student, you may select one of these or any other program at Rowan University or request admission as Exploratory Studies (undeclared). To learn more about the wide range of undergraduate academic programs offered at Rowan University, we recommend utilizing the Academic Program Finder.

The RN diploma program at Our Lady of Lourdes School of Nursing is accredited through the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing.

The baccalaureate degree programs in nursing and the master’s degree program in nursing at Rowan University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001.

Notice to current and prospective students:  During its last review, the RN to BSN program was granted continuing accreditation by the CCNE for a term of three years until June 30, 2025.  Maintenance of accreditation requires that programs demonstrate ongoing and sustainable compliance with all accreditation standards and key elements.  To that end, the CCNE has also issued a show cause directive to the program, effective February 8, 2024, requesting additional evidence of compliance with certain specified standards and elements by August 1, 2024.  Rowan University is committed to the quality of the RN to BSN program and fully expects that further reporting on our progress and achievements will address these concerns.  Questions may be directed to the Head of the Department of Nursing and Chief Nurse Administrator, Dr. Mary Ellen Santucci (santucci@rowan.edu).

Program details