This book provides a blueprint for educators and administrators who are considering the development of a Registered Nurse/Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN/BSN) program and describes state-of-the-art education programs. It includes case examples for successful programs and information on implementation. The chapters were chosen to make the data-based materials more accessible to those exploring the development of an RN/BSN program, and to provide commentary from the nursing service on the movement of RNs returning to school for the baccalaureate. In addition, the book reports on, and extends beyond, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing's national survey of BSN education for registered nurses. Structure and processes of RN/BSN education are described, as is the transition of new graduates into the workplace and into graduate education. Appendices contain "Essentials of College and University Education for Professional Nursing: Final Report" and a summary of American baccalaureate and graduate nursing education programs. Includes an index. Contains 100 references. (GLR)