Student Stories & Testimonials

From LPN to BSN: How Kasen Meek is Advancing His Nursing Career Online with UofL

By Natalie Wess | November 17, 2025 | Comments 0 Comment

When Kasen Meek decided to leave a career in marketing to pursue nursing, he knew he wanted a program that would help him serve his community while advancing his education. Through the University of Louisville’s online RN-BSN program, Kasen is doing exactly that.

“The kindness of nurses struck me over and over again – and solidified that nursing was my calling,” Kasen said.

Kasen enrolled in UofL’s LPN-to-BSN pathway, which allows working nurses to continue providing care while earning credit towards their degree through online coursework. The flexible format and strong faculty support have helped him balance coursework with his role as a licensed practical nurse in Kentucky.

Meeting Kentucky’s Need for Skilled Nurses

UofL’s online RN-BSN program is designed to meet the growing demand for nurses with a BSN degree. The program’s focus on leadership, evidence-based practice and community health prepares nurses like Kasen to make a greater impact on the profession and the patients they serve.

Why Choose UofL Online for Your RN-BSN

UofL’s online RN-BSN programs offers a number of benefits that make this program compelling to future nursing leaders.

Transfer-friendly

Taught by experienced faculty

Scholarships available

The benefits don’t stop there. Online RN-BSN students can earn credit for their prior nursing experience. This program offers a Professional Nursing Portfolio component that awards you 30-credit hours tuition-free (saving you more than a year of classwork and $11,250 in tuition). This helps students to save time and money on their path to becoming a nursing leader.

Applications for the Spring Term are open now. Apply by December 1 to take the next step in your nursing journey.

Apply today!

According to LinkedIn, MBAs are back in style; we say, they never left.

By Conner Mackowiak | April 10, 2025 | Comments 0 Comment

A recent LinkedIn news story shared that professionals are seeking MBAs and similar graduate business degrees once again. The story cited a recent application trends survey indicating that 2-year MBA applications had grown 19% in 2024.

UofL’s online MBA program director, Dr. Zac Goldman, had this to say of the article:

“Given current economic uncertainties, these trends are not terribly surprising. When career or industry outlooks worsen, many people invest in pursuing an MBA to enhance their future prospects. Like anything, MBA applications can trend up or down year-over-year; but long-term, the MBA degree continues to be one of the most resilient and valuable credentials across industries. Those who earn an MBA consistently have greater access to promotions and other opportunities, while also earning more on average than those without an MBA. Our team in the College of Business at UofL is always ready to support and assist professionals who are ready to take this important next step in their careers.”

UofL’s online MBA is designed with the future in mind. This program was created with built-in graduate certificate opportunities and innovative electives, all meant to prepare you for leadership in the workplace of tomorrow. This program also features a 10-day business trip built into the program, intentionally added to give students a global perspective from a program which can be completed from your living room, 100% online.

This program also features the Cardinal Choice Assignment, an exciting deliverable completed throughout the course of the program which allows you to tailor your degree to the Career, Industry or Issue that matters most to you. Doing so allows you to show a prospective employer the diligent work that you completed while still a student in the program.

If you’re interested in joining the growing number of future business leaders looking to energize their future with an MBA, learn more about our program and start your application today!

The Priority Deadline for fall semester applications is May 1.

The Top 3 Things to Consider When Deciding on an Online DSW Program

By Conner Mackowiak | November 25, 2024 | Comments 0 Comment

Choosing the right online Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program can be challenging, but focusing on three key factors can help guide your decision. Read below to see which three factors might help you decide which online DSW program is right for you!

1. Flexibility

As a working professional, you need an online program that aligns with your unique needs. The University of Louisville’s (UofL) online DSW program is designed specifically for busy social workers like you. All coursework and practicums are offered entirely online, with both synchronous and asynchronous classes, giving you the flexibility to balance work, life, and studies.

You won’t have to sacrifice the quality of your education for flexibility. The program is taught by world-class faculty from the Raymond A. Kent School of Social Work and Family Science, part of an R1 research institution and one of Kentucky’s top-ranked social work schools.

2. Practical experience and career growth potential

Many DSW graduates advance into leadership roles within their organizations, and some also take on teaching responsibilities. The UofL online DSW program offers hands-on practicum in teaching and leadership, providing real-world experience to help you grow professionally in whichever direction you choose.

When we say “real-world,” we mean it. The leadership practicum takes place at your place of employment, focusing on the tasks and challenges faced by upper-level administrators—think of it as on-the-job training at the next level.

In the teaching practicum, you will learn by observing Kent School faculty in action and gain experience conducting your own teaching activities under their expert guidance.

While social workers are driven by a desire to help others, it is also important to ensure your educational journey will advance your career and salary potential. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. social worker employment is expected to grow by 16% from 2016 to 2026, with a median annual salary of $80,790 for postsecondary social work educators (bls.gov).

3. Personal connections and guidance

At UofL, “online” doesn’t mean “alone.” The online DSW program is designed to keep you connected with both your peers and faculty. Cohorts are kept small, so you can easily build personal connections with your classmates, who may later become valuable colleagues.

Kent School faculty are also deeply engaged with each DSW student. In addition to the coursework, you will receive one-on-one guidance during your teaching and leadership practicums. You will learn from acknowledged leaders in the field and receive mentorship as you work on your original capstone project, which showcases your expanded skills and understanding. Capstone projects are closely supervised by a faculty mentor and supported by three additional Kent School faculty members.

Next steps: Hear from graduates and apply

Now that you have considered what makes the UofL online DSW program a great fit for you, it’s time to apply! The deadline to submit your application for the next Fall term is February 1. Learn more about the application requirements here.

Want to hear about the experiences of one of UofL’s online DSW graduates? See Lizzie’s story below!

First Generation Student Success: Tiffany Rapier’s Success Story

By Conner Mackowiak | November 13, 2024 | Comments 0 Comment

Tiffany Rapier of Corbin, KY, is a mother of 7 and an online student. She is also a first-generation college student completing her education in what’s known as an Education Desert, or an area with limited access to colleges or universities.

First-generation college students often face unique challenges that can significantly impact their ability to pursue higher education, especially those living in education deserts. Many of these students lack the familial experience to navigate the complexities of higher education, such as understanding financial aid, selecting courses or managing academic expectations. For those in education deserts, the absence of nearby institutions compounds the problem, limiting their access to in-person support systems, networking opportunities and academic resources. However, the rise of online learning offers a crucial lifeline.

Online education allows these students to access quality degree programs without the need to relocate or commute long distances. Flexible schedules, diverse course offerings and the ability to balance work and study make it a viable option for those who might otherwise struggle to find the time or resources to attend a traditional campus-based program. Through online learning, first-generation students in remote areas can overcome geographic and logistical barriers, gaining the education and skills necessary to pursue their career goals.

Take a few moments to watch Tiffany’s powerful story below, and see how she was able to complete both her BS and MS in Criminal Justice through UofL’s online programs!

Click the links to learn more about our 100% online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and Master of Science in Criminal Justice!

Category: Testimonials & Student Stories