Across the United States, the healthcare system is grappling with a nationwide nursing shortage that is both urgent and escalating. The situation in North Carolina is particularly concerning, with a reported 15% gap in available nursing staff and fewer than 10 nurses per 1,000 residents.
These numbers illustrate a growing challenge, but also point to a powerful solution. Today’s RNs can prepare to become tomorrow’s leaders — and help stabilize the nursing workforce from within — by earning their Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing online program from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington (UNCW). This CCNE-accredited program offers nurses a flexible pathway to enhance their credentials while they continue to work.
Is There Really a Nursing Shortage? Understanding the Crisis
The short answer is yes, and the numbers are sobering. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for registered nurses is expected to grow by six percent between 2023 and 2033, with approximately 194,500 job openings annually. This trend is driven by factors like retirements, workforce burnout and rising healthcare needs. The U.S. Department of Labor ranks nursing among the top sectors with long-term workforce shortages.
In North Carolina alone, the gap between the number of available nurses and patient needs continues to widen, placing additional strain on hospitals, clinics and long-term care facilities. Major factors contributing to the nursing shortage include an aging population, increasing chronic health conditions, a lack of nurse educators and high turnover rates due to burnout.
How RN to BSN Programs Help Fill Nursing Roles Faster
In addition to helping improve conditions in healthcare, nurses who complete an RN to BSN program can qualify for leadership roles and elevate their earning potential. The online program at UNCW equips nurses with enhanced skills and knowledge so they are prepared to step into both frontline and supervisory positions.
For licensed RNs who hold an associate degree or nursing diploma, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing unlocks higher levels of competency, clinical judgment and career advancement. UNCW’s RN to BSN program, which can be completed in as few as 12 months, features:
- Flexible scheduling for those working full-time
- Accelerated learning tracks to expedite graduation
- Accessible coursework available from anywhere
- Clinical and leadership preparation to boost readiness for broader roles
Why a BSN Matters Now More Than Ever
A BSN isn’t just a credential — it’s a strategic investment in the quality of healthcare. Studies have found that hospitals employing more BSN-prepared nurses experience better patient outcomes, including reduced mortality rates, fewer medication errors and improved overall care quality. BSN-prepared nurses are better positioned to:
- Lead care teams and mentor new nurses
- Contribute to care planning and patient advocacy
- Engage in evidence-based practice and health policy
- Pursue specialized roles in informatics, management or education
As the nursing shortage statistics grow more alarming, so does the need for nurses who are equipped to take on expanded responsibilities across diverse care settings. The BSN is increasingly becoming the industry standard, and many healthcare employers now require it as a condition for advancement.
UNCW’s Online RN to BSN Program: A Pathway to Progress
UNCW’s online RN to BSN program is a prime example of how educational institutions contribute to overcoming the nursing shortage. Designed for working nurses, the program’s career-relevant curriculum emphasizes leadership, communication and critical thinking. Students in the program benefit from:
- 100% online learning format
- Rolling admissions and multiple start dates
- Courses focused on community health, evidence-based practice and systems leadership
- Dedicated faculty support and student resources
Whether someone is a new RN or a seasoned professional looking to advance, this program offers students a path to meaningful career growth — and a chance to help the healthcare industry solve one of its most pressing problems.
Strengthening the Future of Nursing
Addressing the question, “Is there a nursing shortage?” requires more than awareness — it demands action. Supporting the education and advancement of current RNs through online nursing programs like the one at UNCW is one of the fastest and most impactful ways to close the gap.
In addition to filling nursing jobs, it strengthens the profession from within, empowering nurses to grow into roles that will shape the future of patient care, healthcare leadership and system-wide resilience. As the data continues to paint a concerning picture of the workforce, RN to BSN programs offer a powerful solution — one nurse, and one degree, at a time.
Learn more about the University of North Carolina at Wilmington‘s online RN to BSN program.
