The Easiest Online RN to BSN Programs to Get Into 2024

As the healthcare landscape undergoes continuous evolution, there is an increasing demand for highly educated nurses. For registered nurses (RNs) aspiring to advance their careers, obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a crucial step.
Among the diverse offerings from esteemed nursing schools are online RN to BSN programs designed for ease of access, providing accessible pathways for RNs to fulfill their educational and professional career aspirations.

Explore these programs as we delve into their intricacies to illuminate the factors that make them more accessible. This includes examining their coursework, clinical training, prerequisites, requirements, costs, salary expectations after graduation, and more. Whether you are a practicing RN aiming to enhance your skills and earning potential or simply curious about the educational pathway, you’ve landed in the right place.

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What Makes an Online RN to BSN Program Easy to Get Into?

An online RN to BSN program that is easy to get into typically possesses certain characteristics that enhance accessibility for a broader range of students. These features often include:

1. Flexible Admission Requirements: These programs may have more lenient admission criteria, potentially waiving requirements like high GPAs or standardized test scores.

2. Accreditation: While maintaining quality education, these programs are often accredited, ensuring they meet certain educational standards.

3. Online Format: The online nature of these programs offers flexibility in terms of time and location, making it easier for working nurses to enroll and complete their degrees.

4. Transfer Credit Acceptance: Many of these programs accept transfer credits, facilitating enrollment for students who have already completed some college coursework.

5. Support Services: They often provide robust student support services, including academic advising and tutoring, which can help students succeed even if they have been out of school for a while.

6. High Acceptance Rates: Given the accessibility of easy-to-get-into online RN to BSN programs, they inherently have higher acceptance rates than alternative institutions.

RN to BSN Coursework

The coursework in an RN to BSN program is tailored to build upon the knowledge and skills that registered nurses already possess. It typically includes:

– Advanced Nursing Practice: Courses focus on enhancing clinical decision-making and patient care skills.

– Leadership and Management: These courses prepare nurses for leadership roles, covering topics like healthcare policy, ethics, and management practices.

– Community and Public Health: This area explores broader health concerns, including community health assessment and intervention strategies.

– Research and Evidence-Based Practice: Students learn about research methods and how to apply evidence-based practices in nursing.

– Health Informatics: Courses cover the use of information technology in healthcare, including data management and electronic health records.

RN to BSN Clinical Training

Clinical training in an RN to BSN program is crafted to enhance practical skills and apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. Key aspects include:

– Hands-On Experience: Students engage in clinical practice in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and community health centers.

– Simulation Labs: Many programs use simulation labs to provide realistic, hands-on experiences in a controlled environment.

– Community Health Projects: Some programs include projects or practicums focusing on community health, allowing students to work on real-world health initiatives.

– Leadership Rotations: Clinical rotations may encompass leadership and management experiences, preparing nurses for supervisory roles.

– Capstone Projects: These are often a culmination of clinical training, where students integrate their learning in a comprehensive project or clinical experience.

While not universally applicable, some RN to BSN programs may not require clinicals.

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Easiest Online RN to BSN Programs to Get Into

The selection of the following programs is based on the methodology of Online Nursing Writings, which involves surveying readers to understand their priorities, including graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, and acceptance rates of numerous prominent nursing schools in the United States.

1. University of Texas at El Paso

Acceptance Rate: 100%

The University of Texas at El Paso provides an online RN to BSN program tailored for registered nurses aiming to advance their careers. The program places a strong emphasis on enhancing clinical reasoning and care delivery skills, preparing nurses for leadership roles in healthcare. The curriculum spans various topics, including community health, research, and management, with a particular focus on culturally competent care.

Program Highlights:

– Fully online format.
– Emphasis on culturally competent care.
– Covers community health, research, and management.
– Designed for working professionals.

2. Western Governors University

Acceptance Rate: 100%

Western Governors University’s RN to BSN program is an online, competency-based education program designed for working nurses. The program centers on evidence-based practice, patient safety, and healthcare technology. WGU’s unique model allows students to progress at their own pace, offering a flexible option for nurses balancing work and study.

Program Highlights:

– Competency-based education.
– Fully online and self-paced.
– Focus on evidence-based practice, patient safety, and technology.
– Suitable for working nurses.

3. Aspen University

Acceptance Rate: 100%

Aspen University’s RN to BSN program is crafted for registered nurses seeking to advance their education and career prospects. The program focuses on enhancing nursing skills, leadership, and management capabilities in healthcare settings. Known for offering flexible online learning options, Aspen University caters to the needs of working professionals. The curriculum includes courses in advanced nursing practice, healthcare policy, evidence-based practice, and community health.

Program Highlights:

– Flexible online learning format suitable for working nurses.
– Focus on advanced nursing practice and leadership.
– Courses include healthcare policy, evidence-based practice, and community health.

4. Cox College

Acceptance Rate: 100%

Cox College’s RN to BSN program offers a flexible online learning environment for registered nurses. The program is designed to accommodate working professionals, offering courses in eight-week blocks, either part-time or full-time. It also provides an opportunity for students to start taking MSN courses as part of their bachelor’s program.

Program Highlights:

– Flexible online format with eight-week course blocks.
– Option for part-time or full-time study.
– Bridge program to MSN courses.
– No admission deadlines.

5. Lewis-Clark State College

Acceptance Rate: 100%

The RN to BSN track at Lewis-Clark State College is an online program enabling nurses to complete their BSN in as few as 9 months. The program, designed for nurses with an existing RN license, focuses on expanding knowledge and skills beyond clinical aspects. It offers flexible scheduling and online coursework.

Program Highlights:

– Complete the BSN in as few as 9 months.
– Flexible scheduling and online coursework.
– Designed for RNs with an Associate degree.
– Two hands-on practicum courses are included.

6. Delta State University

Acceptance Rate: 100%

Delta State University’s online RN to BSN program, offered through the Robert E. Smith School of Nursing, prepares graduates for leadership positions and advanced education. The entirely online program includes clinical experiences in healthcare or community settings based on the student’s geographical location. Students can choose between full-time and part-time options, with flexible scheduling and admission year-round.

Program Highlights:

– Online format with clinical experiences in the student’s local area.
– Full-time program can be completed in two semesters; part-time in four semesters.
– Focus on preparing RNs for leadership roles and further education.
– Flexible scheduling with full-time and part-time options.
– Applications accepted year-round with fall term admissions.

7. University of Maine-Fort Kent

Acceptance Rate: 100%

The RN to BSN online program at the University of Maine-Fort Kent (UMFK) is tailored for working nurses, emphasizing clinical reasoning and promoting a culture of healthcare safety. This 100% online program is designed for affordability, with no additional fees, and offers flexibility with 7-week online courses. The program can be completed in as few as 10 months and costs $309 per credit hour, requiring 30 credit hours of core nursing courses.

Program Highlights:

– Emphasizes clinical reasoning and evidence-based practice for quality outcomes.
– Learning outcomes include professionalism, leadership, patient-centered care, evidence-based practice, teamwork and collaboration, communication, systems-based practice, informatics and technology, safety, quality improvement, and geriatrics.
– Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
– Offers an affordable, pay-as-you-go tuition model.
– Six start dates each year, accommodating working nurses.
– Admission requires an RN license and a GPA of 2.5 or higher.
– The curriculum includes courses on holistic health assessment, transcultural care in nursing, health care policy, health-related research, and an integrated nursing practice practicum.

8. Milligan University

Acceptance Rate: 99%

Milligan University offers an online RN to BSN program, CCNE-accredited and designed specifically for working RNs. The program is delivered entirely online, allowing students to meet clinical course outcomes in their local community and work environment. Completable in as few as 5 semesters, it includes general education classes taken online alongside nursing courses, providing a balanced approach to earning a degree while managing life’s responsibilities.

Program Highlights:

– 100% online course delivery.
– Can be completed in as few as 5 semesters.
– Clinical course outcomes can be met in the student’s local community and work environment.
– Preferred by employers and serves as a stepping stone for graduate studies.
– One of the most economical tuition rates in the region.
– Eligibility for state and federal tuition assistance programs and employer reimbursement.
– Faculty consists of clinical experts with substantial real-world experience and a commitment to students’ academic, personal, and spiritual growth.
– Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, approved by the Tennessee Board of Nursing.
– Offers a free Personalized Degree Plan to help prospective students understand their specific course requirements.

9. University of Providence

Acceptance Rate: 99%

The University of Providence offers an RN to BSN program online, designed for RNs with an ADN. Built on a conceptual framework emphasizing Relationship-Based Care, Vigilance, Professional Accountability, and Change, it prepares nurses for the complexities of modern healthcare environments.

Program Highlights:

– Focuses on Relationship-Based Care, with the patient and family central to the care delivery team.
– Emphasizes Nursing Vigilance, reflecting unwavering attention to patients and the care delivery environment.
– Highlights Professional Accountability, ensuring adherence to established standards and continuous professional development.
– Addresses constant and complex changes in healthcare, preparing nurses to lead positive change.
– Honors the patient and family as the center of the care delivery team, fostering collaborative and sacred relationships.
– Aims to protect patients from harm and ensure safe passage through the continuum of care.
– Encourages nurses to be responsible for their self-care, professional development, and proactive career management.

10. Arkansas Tech University

Acceptance Rate: 98%

Arkansas Tech University’s RN to BSN program offers a seamless transition for RNs from an associate

degree or diploma in nursing to a baccalaureate degree. This 100% online program is designed for flexibility, offering three admission cycles each year and the option for full or part-time studies. The contemporary curriculum expands upon the knowledge of the registered nurse, with the ability to complete the program in one calendar year. It includes two clinical courses: Professional Practicum Synthesis and Leadership and Management.

Program Highlights:

– 100% online, allowing for flexibility in scheduling.
– Three admission cycles per year.
– Full or part-time study options.
– Can be completed in one calendar year.
– Two clinical courses focusing on professional practice and leadership.
– Learning opportunities include the scope of professional practice for the BSN-prepared nurse, nursing research, leadership and management skills, nursing informatics, and population health.
– Students living in states bordering Arkansas receive in-state tuition.
– Financial aid available for qualifying students.
– Graduates prepared for advanced roles in leadership and management, charge nurse positions, community-based environments, and various nursing specialties.
– Program stacks with higher degrees like BSN to PhD or DNP, and MSN programs for advanced practice certifications.

11. Eastern Kentucky University

Acceptance Rate: 98%

Eastern Kentucky University’s RN to BSN online program is designed for working nurses. This CCNE-accredited program is 100% online, allowing students to learn from anywhere. The program requires 25 nursing credit hours and can be completed in as little as 12 months. EKU’s curriculum blends academic and professional preparation, focusing on health promotion, disease prevention, quality, performance improvement, coordination of services, and population health.

Program Highlights:

– Accelerated path to graduate in 12 months.
– 25-28 credit hours required for the degree.
– Free textbooks through EKU BookSmart.
– No required campus visits or cohorts, and no testing centers to visit.
– Clinical projects can be completed in the student’s current place of employment.
– Credit for general education requirements based on associate in nursing, NCLEX licensure, and professional experience.
– Convenient 8-week terms with personalized advising.
– Program includes courses like Perspectives in Professional Nursing, Research for EBNP, Leadership and Management, Complex Health Systems/Clinical, Professional Role Transition, and RN Public Health Nursing.

12. Shepherd University

Acceptance Rate: 98%

Shepherd University’s RN to BSN program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of RNs. The program is delivered online, providing flexibility for working professionals. It focuses on advanced nursing concepts, leadership, and community health, preparing graduates for a range of healthcare settings.

Program Highlights:

– Online format for flexibility.
– Emphasis on advanced nursing practices and leadership.
– Focus on community health.
– Designed for working professionals.

13. Keiser University

Acceptance Rate: 97%

Keiser University’s RN to BSN program is tailored for registered nurses seeking to advance their education and career. The program emphasizes critical thinking, leadership, and evidence-based practice. Delivered online, it offers flexibility for nurses to balance their studies with professional commitments.

Program Highlights:

– Online delivery for convenience.
– Focus on critical thinking and leadership skills.
– Curriculum includes evidence-based practice.
– Suitable for working nurses.

14. Southeastern Louisiana University

Acceptance Rate: 97%

Southeastern Louisiana University’s RN to BSN program is designed for licensed RNs aiming to further their education. The program is 100% online, making it accessible for nurses with busy schedules. It offers individualized assistance and guidance throughout the program, with a dedicated faculty coach for each student.

Program Highlights:

– Entirely online format.
– Dedicated faculty coach for personalized support.
– Flexible start dates with multiple terms per year.
– Total cost of $9,500 for U.S. residents, covering tuition, books, and fees.

15. Auburn University at Montgomery

Acceptance Rate: 96%

The RN to BSN program at Auburn University at Montgomery is an online program designed for RNs looking to expand their career opportunities. The program focuses on enhancing nursing skills and knowledge, with flexible assignments to accommodate working schedules. It is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Program Highlights:

– 100% online program.
– Flexible coursework for working nurses.
– Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
– Focus on career advancement and leadership roles.

16. College of Coastal Georgia

Acceptance Rate: 96%

The RN to BSN program at the College of Coastal Georgia is an online program aimed at nurses with an associate degree wishing to earn their BSN. The program is designed to address the evolving needs of healthcare, focusing on disease processes, evidence-based practice, and leadership. It includes two in-person clinical rotations that can be completed at a location of the student’s choice.

Program Highlights:

– Online coursework with two in-person clinical rotations.
– Affordable tuition at $106.80 per hour.
– Accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
– Option to complete the program in three or six semesters.

Online RN to BSN Prerequisites & Requirements

In contemplating enrollment in an online RN to BSN program, it becomes imperative to grasp both the prerequisites, delineating the conditions necessary for application, and the requirements, outlining the components essential for successful program completion. These facets ensure that students are adequately equipped for the elevated level of study and can triumphantly conclude the program.

Online RN to BSN Prerequisites

Prerequisites embody the criteria prospective students must fulfill before gaining admission to the program. These typically encompass:

1. Educational Background: Most programs necessitate an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Diploma in Nursing from an accredited institution.
2. RN Licensure: Applicants must possess a current and unencumbered RN license, a pivotal requirement as the program builds upon the knowledge and skills acquired as a registered nurse.
3. Prerequisite Courses: Certain programs may mandate completion of specific prerequisite courses such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and statistics before admission.
4. Work Experience: While not universally obligatory, some programs prefer or insist upon a certain level of professional nursing experience.

Online RN to BSN Requirements

Requirements constitute the criteria students must meet to successfully navigate the program. These typically encompass:

1. Coursework: Fulfillment of all prescribed coursework, typically spanning advanced nursing concepts, leadership, community health, research, and potentially electives.
2. Clinical Hours: Some programs stipulate a specific number of clinical hours, which can be completed either at the student’s workplace or another approved location.
3. Capstone Project or Thesis: Many programs include a capstone project or thesis as a graduation requisite, serving as a platform for students to demonstrate their integrated knowledge.
4. Minimum Grade Point Average: Students are generally required to maintain a minimum GPA, often around 2.0 or higher, throughout the program to be eligible for graduation.
5. Professional Standards: Adherence to professional and ethical standards throughout the program is typically expected.

Costs & Salary Expectations of Easily Accessible Online RN to BSN Programs

Understanding the financial dynamics of RN to BSN programs is pivotal for prospective students, encompassing both the costs involved in program pursuit and the potential salary benefits post-completion.

Online Easily Accessible RN to BSN Costs

The cost of RN to BSN programs exhibits significant variability based on various factors:

1. Tuition Fees: Varied between public and private institutions, online RN to BSN programs might mitigate costs by eliminating the need for on-campus facilities, although tuition rates can align with traditional programs.
2. Additional Fees: Beyond tuition, students may incur diverse fees, including technology fees for online courses, lab fees for practical components, and expenses for textbooks, uniforms, and other materials.
3. Financial Aid Options: Financial aid, including federal aid through FAFSA, nursing-specific scholarships, and employer tuition assistance programs, can substantially alleviate the financial burden.
4. Opportunity Costs: Participation in higher education may entail reduced work hours and income, impacting potential earnings. Despite initial costs, a BSN can lead to increased lifetime earnings and opportunities for advanced roles.

Easily Accessible Online RN to BSN Salary Expectations

Salaries for RNs holding a BSN degree are contingent on factors such as location, experience, education level, nursing specialty, and industry sector.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual wage for RNs is $89,010, with a range from $61,250 to $129,400. Specific states boasting the highest RN salaries include

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

RNs with only an associate degree command an average annual income of $88,638 in the U.S.

Pros & Cons of Easily Accessible Online RN to BSN Programs

Online RN to BSN programs with lenient admission criteria present distinct advantages and potential drawbacks, encapsulated in the following five pros and cons:

Pros of Easily Accessible Online RN to BSN Programs

1. Accessibility: These programs extend accessibility to a broader range of nurses, including those with less stellar academic records.
2. Flexibility: Online formats afford flexibility in study schedules, catering to working nurses juggling professional and personal responsibilities.
3. Diverse Student Body: With lenient admission criteria, these programs attract a diverse array of students, enriching the learning environment.
4. Opportunity for Advancement: Completing a BSN opens doors to career advancement, higher salaries, and specialized nursing roles.
5. Continued Professional Development: These programs foster lifelong learning and professional development, crucial in the evolving healthcare landscape.

Cons of Easily Accessible Online RN to BSN Programs

1. Quality Concerns: Some may perceive that programs with easier admission standards compromise educational quality, although accreditation is a mitigating factor.
2. Self-Discipline Required: Online learning demands high self-discipline and motivation, posing challenges for some students without the structure of traditional classrooms.
3. Limited Hands-On Experience: While offering clinical training, online programs may provide less comprehensive hands-on experience than on-campus counterparts.
4. Technology Dependence: Reliable access to technology and the internet is imperative, posing challenges for those uncomfortable with digital platforms.
5. Networking Limitations: Online programs may offer fewer opportunities for in-person networking, a crucial aspect of professional growth in nursing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the typical acceptance rates for easily accessible online RN to BSN programs?

Acceptance rates can vary widely, but such programs often boast higher acceptance rates due to more flexible admission criteria, making them accessible to a broader range of students.

Q: Can I enroll in an online RN to BSN program on a part-time basis?

Many online RN to BSN programs offer the flexibility of full-time or part-time enrollment, accommodating working nurses balancing professional responsibilities with education.

Q: How do online RN to BSN programs ensure competency development in key areas like pathophysiology?

These programs, including those with lenient admission standards, utilize comprehensive online coursework, interactive platforms, and clinical experiences to ensure competency development, meeting standards set by accreditation bodies like CCNE.

Q: Are there specific general education requirements for enrolling in an online RN to BSN program?

General education requirements typically include holding an ADN or a Diploma in Nursing from an accredited institution, along with completing prerequisite courses like anatomy, physiology, and microbiology. Specific enrollment requirements vary by the college of nursing.

Q: Do online RN to BSN programs prepare students for the NCLEX-RN examination?

Primarily designed for licensed registered nurses, online RN to BSN programs focus on advancing education and skills rather than initial NCLEX-RN preparation. However, the coursework indirectly supports ongoing professional competency for practicing nurses.