The Best RN to BSN Programs in 2024 and 2025

Though an associate degree or diploma serves as an initial entry point for RNs into the nursing profession, acquiring a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) significantly expands their horizons.

A BSN not only enhances their clinical knowledge and skills but also opens doors to more advanced roles, leadership positions, and a competitive edge in negotiating salaries.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics underscores the increased employability of those with BSNs, particularly in hospital settings. This is further supported by a survey from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (2022), indicating that 77% of employers strongly prefer nurses with a BSN, while 41% require a BSN for new hires.

Recognizing the statistical desirability of a BSN for long-term growth, we have compiled a list below of the best RN to BSN programs available.

What Is an RN to BSN Program?

An RN to BSN Program entails a registered nurse (RN) returning to school to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. This applies to experienced RNs and recent graduates holding a diploma or an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN).

A BSN degree program builds upon the foundation laid by a diploma or associate degree, offering a more comprehensive education in social and physical sciences, nursing management, research, informatics, and public health. It enriches the BSN student’s understanding of community health, healthcare management, leadership, and policy, broadening the scope of practice.

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While most of these programs are online, some schools provide on-campus classes with practicum (clinical hours) to be completed in the local community. Clinical experiences for nurses may vary, but several programs mandate a capstone project for graduation.

The cost of RN to BSN programs varies, and many employers reimburse tuition for continued education. Additionally, several schools offer financial aid.

RN to BSN Coursework

The coursework in an RN to BSN program builds upon the foundational nursing knowledge that RNs have already acquired. It often encompasses advanced topics in nursing, covering:

– Nursing Theory: Courses in nursing theory offer a deeper understanding of the conceptual frameworks and principles guiding nursing practice.
– Research and Evidence-Based Practice: Nurses learn to integrate research findings into their practice, improving patient outcomes and healthcare quality.
– Community and Public Health Nursing: This area focuses on promoting and protecting the health of populations, emphasizing prevention, wellness, and health education.
– Leadership and Management: These courses prepare nurses for leadership roles by teaching them about healthcare systems, policy, finance, and organizational dynamics.
– Health Assessment: Advanced health assessment courses enhance the nurse’s ability to perform comprehensive patient evaluations.
– Pathophysiology and Pharmacology: An in-depth study of disease processes and the medications used in treatment.
– Ethics and Legal Issues in Nursing: Nurses study the ethical and legal principles impacting nursing practice and healthcare delivery.
– Informatics: Nurses learn about the use of information technology in healthcare to improve patient care.
– Cultural Competence: Courses focus on providing culturally sensitive care to diverse patient populations.

RN to BSN Clinical Training

Clinical training in an RN to BSN program is designed to provide nurses with practical experience in various settings. While it may be less hands-on than the clinical training in an associate degree program, it still plays a crucial role in developing advanced skills:

– Community Health Clinicals: These provide experience in community settings, such as public health departments, schools, and home health agencies.
– Leadership Clinicals: Some programs include a leadership practicum, where students may shadow nurse leaders or manage projects in healthcare settings.
– Capstone Projects: Many programs culminate in a capstone project, often including a clinical component where students apply their knowledge to a real-world nursing challenge.
– Simulation Labs: Advanced simulation labs allow nurses to practice complex and critical scenarios in a controlled environment.
– Specialty Electives: Some programs offer clinical electives in specialized areas of nursing, such as pediatrics, geriatrics, or emergency care.

Best Online RN to BSN Programs in 2024

The following schools have been selected based on allnurses’ methodology, incorporating reader preferences along with factors such as NCLEX pass rates, graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, and admission rates from numerous prominent nursing schools in the United States.

1. Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University (GCU) stands out as one of the premier online RN to BSN programs. It facilitates RNs in acquiring their degree within six terms by offering five-week courses, allowing accelerated completion within a span of 14 months.

While theory classes are conducted online, the acquisition of clinical hours necessitates in-person participation within the local community. GCU permits the transfer of up to 90 credits and provides a fast-track option for obtaining a Master of Science in Nursing degree within two and a half years. The total credits for the RN to BSN program amount to 120, resulting in a variable cost based on the number of transferable credits.

– Price: $340 per credit hour; the total program costs approximately $10,200 for those with maximum transfer credits
– Mode: Online
– Duration: 14 months
– CCNE Accredited: Yes
– Admission Rate: 82%
– Graduation Rate: 41%
– Post-Graduation Employment Rate: 93%
– Student-Faculty Ratio: 21:1

2. Ohio University

Recognized as the eighth most affordable online RN to BSN program in the United States, Ohio University offers nursing students the opportunity to complete their degrees for as little as $10,000.

Applicants must possess an active, unencumbered nursing license with an ADN or diploma, maintain a GPA of 2.0 or higher, and be residents of specific states. The program, delivered online, spans 12 to 24 months.

– Price: $10,000 for the program
– Mode: Online
– Duration: 12-24 months
– CCNE Accredited: Yes
– Admission Rate: 87%
– Graduation Rate: 65%
– Post-Graduation Employment Rate: 93%
– Student-Faculty Ratio: 17:1

3. Rasmussen University

Rasmussen University distinguishes itself by offering online education courses with support in finding in-person clinicals. The program allows the transfer of up to 134 credits, and applicants must hold a current, unencumbered RN license in the United States.

– Price: $14,500 total
– Mode: Online
– Duration: 12-18 months full-time
– CCNE Accredited: Yes
– Admission Rate: 100%
– Graduation Rate: 35.8%
– Post-Graduation Employment Rate: 99%
– Student-Faculty Ratio: 11:1

4. Western Governors University

Designed for active, unencumbered RN-licensed students, Western Governors University offers a rapid completion of the BSN within four terms. The unique tuition structure charges fees every six months, providing a cost-effective option for motivated nursing students.

The curriculum aligns with the 2021 AACN Essentials for Core Competencies for the professional nurse, allowing the transfer of up to 90 credits.

– Price: $4,885 per term
– Mode: Online
– Duration: 12-24 months
– CCNE Accredited: Yes
– Admission Rate: 100% (if application and education requirements are met)
– Graduation Rate: 89%
– Post-Graduation Employment Rate: 78%
– Student-Faculty Ratio: 42:1

5. University of North Carolina, Pembroke

Despite being a North Carolina state school, the University of North Carolina, Pembroke offers one of the most affordable RN to BSN programs, welcoming students from other NLC compact states.

The program caters to registered nurses aiming to advance their education and career prospects, providing a curriculum that builds upon existing skills and knowledge.

– Price: $4,247 for in-state; $9,404 for out-of-state
– Mode: Online
– Duration: 12 months
– CCNE Accredited: Yes
– Admission Rate: 92%
– Graduation Rate: 23%
– Student-Faculty Ratio: 15:1

6. Morehead State University

Morehead State University, ranking in the top 5 among 169 accredited Southeast Region RN to BSN programs, offers an online program tailored for working registered nurses. Admission requirements include an active and unencumbered RN license.

– Price: $4,620 per semester or $385 per credit hour
– Mode: Online
– Duration: 24 months
– CCNE Accredited: Yes
– Admission Rate: 77%
– Graduation Rate: 23%
– Post-Graduation Employment Rate: 100%

7. Montana Technological University

Ranked first in nursing programs in Montana in 2021 and 2023, Montana Technological University requires registered nurses to hold an active, unencumbered license and have earned an ADN. Credit transfers must be evaluated by the enrollment service office.

– Price: $525 per credit hour
– Mode: Hybrid
– Duration: 4 Terms
– CCNE Accredited: Yes
– Post-Graduation Employment Rate: 100%

8. Regis College

Regis College caters to nursing students seeking personal and professional growth by offering a baccalaureate degree. The program can be completed in as little as 10 or 20 months, and students can choose between web-based classrooms with a synchronous format or complete the program 100% online.

– Price: $603 per credit hour
– Mode: Online
– Duration: 10-20 months (as few as five semesters)
– CCNE Accredited: Yes

9. Maryville University of Saint Louis

Maryville University of Saint Louis presents a 129-credit RN to BSN program, allowing up to 40 transferrable credits. The program aims to prepare nurses of all skill levels for advanced career roles, fostering critical thinking skills and healthcare leadership.

– Price: $24,766 annual cost
– Mode: Online
– Duration: 3 Terms
– CCNE Accredited: Yes
– Admission Rate: 95%
– Graduation Rate: 57%
– Post-Graduation Employment Rate: 98%
– Student-Faculty Ratio: 13:1

10. Capella University

Capella University, with over 14,000 nursing alumni, stands as a popular fully online university. The CCNE-accredited school offers a flexible program known as FlexPath, enabling students to complete their RN to BSN within nine months for under $10,000.

Approximately 25% of students finish the program in the accelerated nine-month timeframe, praising the program’s self-paced nature.

– Price: $6,590-$13,180 (accelerated pace to typical pace) for the entire program
– Mode: Online
– Duration: 9 months
– CCNE Accredited: Yes
– Admission Rate: 100%
– Graduation Rate: 16%
– Post Graduation Employment Rate: 82%
– Student-Faculty Ratio: 49:1

11. Drexel University

Drexel University  provides nursing students with evidence-based practice to enhance patient outcomes and excel in their nursing careers. The program includes technology-enhanced coursework within a curriculum designed to improve the RN’s experience.

A distinctive feature is the three-year tuition lock for those who complete their degree within this timeframe.

-Price: $604 per credit
– Mode: Online
– Duration: 12-24 months
– CCNE Accredited: Yes
– Admission Rate: 77%
– Graduation Rate: 68%
– Post-Graduation Employment Rate: 90%
– Student-Faculty Ratio: 9:1

12. University of Texas at Arlington

The University of Texas at Arlington, College of Nursing and Health Innovation (CONHI), boasts being the largest public college of nursing in terms of enrollments and graduates. Their RN to BSN program offers affordable tuition, multiple start dates throughout the year, and cutting-edge technology and innovation.

With multiple start dates, the program caters to diverse needs and timelines, accommodating aspiring nursing professionals.

– Price: $8,995 (total)
– Mode: Online
– Duration: 9 months
– CCNE Accredited: Yes
– Admission Rate: 88%
– Graduation Rate: 51%
– Student-Faculty Ratio: 24:1

13. California State University, Fullerton (CSUF)

CSUF’s RN to BSN program consists of 24-semester units of nursing coursework, offering flexibility between full-time and part-time completion. The program provides options between campus-based learning and online.

Applications are accepted in the fall and spring, allowing for strategic enrollment opportunities.

– Price: $3,833 per semester for in-state students, $10,049 per semester for out-of-state students
– Mode: Hybrid
– Duration: 18 months
– CCNE Accredited: Yes
– Admission Rate: 38%
– Graduation Rate: 69%
– Student-Faculty Ratio: 20:1

14. Bellevue College

Designed for licensed RNs with an ADN or diploma in nursing, Bellevue College’s RN to BSN program focuses on expanding knowledge and skills in evidence-based practice, community health, professional communication, leadership, and health information technology.

– Price: $7,380
– Mode: Hybrid
– Duration: 12 months
– CCNE Accredited: Yes
– Graduation Rate: 33%
– Student-Faculty Ratio: 14-1

15. University of Central Florida (UCF)

UCF’s RN to BSN program offers full online completion, although not all electives and prerequisites may be available online. Comprising 62 total credits, the curriculum focuses on subjects such as Nursing Practice, Health Assessment, Nursing Care, and more.

– Price: $212.28 per credit hour in-state, $748.98 out-of-state
– Mode: Hybrid
– Duration: 62 credits, full-time or part-time
– CCNE Accredited: Yes
– Admission Rate: 44%
– Graduation Rate: 70%
– Student-Faculty Ratio: 31:1

RN to BSN Prerequisites and Requirements

RN to BSN programs come with specific prerequisites and requirements that must be fulfilled for admission.

Prerequisites for RN to BSN Programs

Prerequisites encompass the courses or conditions necessary before a student can enroll in an RN to BSN program. Typically, these include:

– Associate Degree or Diploma in Nursing (ADN): Most programs mandate completion of an ADN or a nursing diploma program from an accredited institution.
– Active RN License: Applicants must possess a current, unrestricted RN license in the state where they will fulfill their clinical requirements.
– General Education Courses: Completion of general education courses is often mandatory, covering subjects like English, mathematics, social sciences, and humanities. Some programs may specify science courses such as biology, anatomy, physiology, Microbiology, and chemistry.
– Minimum GPA: Usually, a minimum grade point average (around 2.5 to 3.0 on a 4.0 scale) from prior college coursework is required.
– Work Experience: Some programs may prefer or mandate applicants to have clinical work experience as an RN.
– Prerequisite Nursing Courses: Certain foundational nursing courses may need completion, especially if they were not part of the initial nursing diploma or associate degree.

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Requirements for RN to BSN Programs

Once accepted, students must fulfill the following requirements to complete the program:

– Core Nursing BSN Courses: Students must complete all core nursing courses offered in the BSN program, covering advanced topics in nursing practice, leadership, research, and community health.
– Clinical Hours: Despite having clinical experience, most programs mandate additional clinical hours in various settings to meet BSN-level competencies.
– Capstone or Final Project: Many programs require a capstone project or a final paper showcasing the integration of knowledge and skills acquired during the BSN program.
– Elective Courses: Some programs may mandate or provide elective courses, allowing RNs to specialize or gain additional knowledge in specific nursing areas.
– Residency Requirements: If offered by a university or college, there may be a residency requirement, with a certain number of credits completed through that institution.
– Continued Licensure: Maintaining an active RN license throughout the program duration is necessary.
– Professional Standards: Adhering to the professional standards and code of ethics set by the nursing profession and the educational institution.
– Technology Proficiency: As many RN to BSN programs include online components, students may need to demonstrate proficiency in using computers and various software applications.

It’s crucial to note that specific prerequisites and requirements can vary significantly among RN to BSN programs. Prospective students should carefully review the admission criteria of the programs they are considering to ensure meeting all necessary prerequisites and understanding the requirements for successful completion.

RN to BSN Costs & Salary Expectations

While the costs and salary expectations of RN to BSN programs vary, the following are important considerations.

RN to BSN Costs

When considering an RN to BSN program, understanding the various contributing factors to the overall cost is essential.

– Tuition: Tuition varies, with public institutions typically offering lower rates for in-state students. Online programs can sometimes provide savings by eliminating campus facility costs.
– Fees: Beyond tuition, students may encounter various fees, including technology fees for online courses, lab fees for hands-on components, and costs for textbooks, uniforms, and other materials.
– Financial Aid: Financial aid can reduce out-of-pocket expenses, with federal aid, scholarships for nursing students, and employer tuition assistance programs being key resources.
– Opportunity Costs: Pursuing higher education may lead to temporary income loss, and the time investment in studying represents an indirect cost.
– Long-Term Benefits: Despite immediate costs, a BSN degree can lead to higher lifetime earnings and open doors to advanced career opportunities in specialized nursing fields and leadership roles.

RN to BSN Salary Expectations

Salary expectations in 2024 vary based on geography, experience level, education, nursing specialties, and industry.

According to recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the national mean annual wage for an RN is $89,010, with the lowest 10th percentile making $61,250 and the 90th percentile making $129,400 annually. The highest employment levels were in general medicine and surgical hospitals, with an annual wage of $90,600.

Highest salary states include

• California: $133,340
• Hawaii: $113,220
• Oregon: $106,610
• Massachusetts: $104,150
• Alaska: $103,310

According to Glassdoor, the salary for a registered nurse with a BSN is $120,136/year with a range of $92,000-$157,000 yearly. RNs with a BSN and 0-1 years of experience earn an average of $81K-$120K/year, while those with 2-4 years of experience earn $97K-$147K/year.

For RNs with only an associate degree, the average annual income in the United States is $88,638.

Are Online RN to BSN Programs Worth It?

An online RN to BSN program can be a significant step for advancing your nursing career; however, whether it’s worth it depends on your goals. If you seek to advance your earning potential and prefer more flexibility in your environment, an RN to BSN is likely worth it. However, it’s crucial to weigh costs, self-discipline requirements, and more.

Online RN to BSN Pros

– Career Advancement: A BSN opens doors to more advanced nursing positions and is often required for certain specialties.
– Higher Salary Potential: Nurses with a BSN often have higher earning potential compared to those with an associate degree or diploma.
– Flexibility: Online programs offer the flexibility to study on your own schedule, ideal for working nurses balancing work, family, and education.
– Broader Educational Foundation: BSN programs provide a comprehensive nursing education, including training in management, critical thinking, and research.
– Preparation for Advanced Education: A BSN is typically required for entry into graduate nursing programs, such as Nurse Practitioner or Nurse Anesthetist programs.

Online RN to BSN Costs

– Cost: Online BSN programs can be expensive, and financial aid might be more limited compared to traditional programs.
– Self-Discipline Required: Online learning demands a high degree of self-motivation and discipline.
– Limited Hands-On Experience: Some online programs may offer fewer opportunities for hands-on experience compared to traditional programs.
– Technology Dependence: Online learning relies heavily on technology, which can be a barrier for those without reliable internet access or adequate computer equipment.
– Less Face-To-Face Interaction: Online programs may offer fewer opportunities for direct interaction with faculty and peers, impacting networking and learning experiences.

FAQ and Additional Readings

Should I pursue a BSN?

The U.S. healthcare system’s increasing complexity makes a BSN worthwhile, enhancing employability, salary, and readiness for industry changes.

May I work while I earn my BSN?

Many programs cater to working nurses with options like online courses or evening classes. Most schools offer part-time and full-time options, providing flexibility for further education.

May I start the RN to BSN program without being licensed?

To apply, an active, unrestricted RN license is a prerequisite, and passing the NCLEX-RN boards is essential.

Do I get to transfer credits from my prior nursing degree?

Many schools allow transferrable credits, usually with a maximum limit.

Do I need to be employed as a registered nurse to apply to schools?

Not necessarily; an active RN license before enrollment is typically sufficient.

What is the workload like for an RN-BSN program?

Workload varies, but many students find time to work full-time while completing the program. Courses often involve discussion boards, written papers, and projects.

A qualitative study identified common themes, including workload, flexibility, coursework, and support. Some students found the workload comparable to nursing school, while others appreciated the flexibility of online programs. The study emphasized the inclusion of nursing theory, research, management, and population health in coursework, offering flexibility for students in online courses. Faculty support was identified as a key factor, with students desiring more immediate responses to questions.