A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) equips registered nurses (RN) with essential clinical expertise, and most incorporate a liberal arts education, which offers significant benefits. The combination of nursing and liberal arts skills enriches a nurse’s practice, contributing to better patient care and a more comprehensive understanding of healthcare dynamics. This educational approach contrasts with the more focused, clinical training of a BSN, providing a holistic perspective that can greatly benefit nursing professionals.
The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) offers an online RN to BSN program that integrates liberal arts courses with nursing education, preparing graduates for a more comprehensive approach to patient care. The following are four reasons nurses should incorporate liberal arts into their education.
Reason 1: Liberal Arts Fosters Critical Skills
Liberal arts education covers a variety of subjects designed to build broad, versatile skills. It includes humanities such as literature, philosophy and history — which explore human culture and values through texts and historical events. Social sciences — like sociology and psychology — focus on understanding human behavior and societal issues. Natural sciences, including biology and chemistry, provide insights into the natural world and scientific methods, while foundational math and logic courses develop analytical and problem-solving skills. The aim is to help students think critically, communicate effectively and appreciate diverse perspectives.
Liberal arts education develops students’ key skills and understanding. Liberal arts education fosters critical thinking by encouraging students to analyze complex ideas and make informed decisions. Communication skills are enhanced through writing, presentations and discussions, helping students express their thoughts clearly. Exposure to different cultures and philosophies promotes empathy and a deeper understanding of global issues. Additionally, a liberal arts education encourages a love for learning and prepares students for various career paths and life challenges.
Reason 2: Liberal Arts and Nursing Work Together
Nurses who pursue a liberal arts education alongside their BSN gain several advantages that can significantly impact their practice. In a 2023 study titled “An Integrative Review of Humanities Based Activities in Baccalaureate Nursing Education,” researchers note that in nursing education, a liberal arts foundation is essential for developing clinical reasoning and judgment. The purpose of this research was to review literature on the integration of humanities into baccalaureate nursing programs, focusing on the types of humanities interventions and their outcomes. Using the Aesthetic Knowing and Knowledge model by Chinn and Kramer, the research analyzed 227 studies and selected 19 that used interventions like art, literature and music.
The review found that humanities-based interventions improved nursing students’ emotional development, communication and understanding of ethical comportment. These interventions were linked to aesthetic knowing, self-awareness and moral competence in nursing. The humanities helped students explore human experiences through art, literature and history, which enriched their understanding of patients’ needs. While these findings are promising, the research calls for more studies using randomized controlled trials to strengthen evidence on the benefits of humanities in nursing education.
Reasons 3 and 4: Higher Earning Potential and More Career Opportunities
A Bachelor of Science in Nursing offers several key benefits compared to an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). BSN graduates are more competitive in the job market, often earning higher salaries and having greater career advancement opportunities. The BSN curriculum includes more comprehensive training, covering theoretical nursing concepts, public health, ethics and leadership. These equip nurses for roles in management and specialized care.
Additionally, BSN graduates are more likely to pursue advanced degrees and have a higher pass rate on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). Pursuing a BSN degree is a smart choice for nursing professionals, as it enhances clinical skills, expands career opportunities and addresses the growing demand for nurses committed to lifelong learning and professional development.
How The University of Texas at Arlington Can Help
UTA‘s online RN to BSN program combines comprehensive nursing education with a strong liberal arts curriculum. Foundational courses in math, literature and social sciences are integral to the program, helping to build critical-thinking, problem solving and communication skills and clinical expertise. These prerequisites, such as Introduction to Sociology, help nurses to understand diverse cultural perspectives and build on the technical skills gained in nursing courses, ensuring patient care.
By integrating both nursing and liberal arts, the program equips nurses with the skills to manage complex healthcare situations. Nurses who complete UTA’s efficient and flexible program are prepared for diverse healthcare settings, making informed decisions with a broader understanding of their patients’ needs. Additionally, these skills support career advancement, offering nurses the tools to excel in leadership roles or further education.
Learn more about UTA’s online RN to BSN program.
