Fastest Online RN to BSN Rankings | 2023 Edition
We’ve divided the quickest Online RN to BSN programs into 4 categories and ranked them by price. Any school marked with an asterisk* is only available to in-state RNs or those with compact licensure. Two prices mean there will be an in-state and out-of-state cost. Each listing contains a detailed summary—use the links to jump to your chosen school!
AMERICAN SENTINEL COLLEGE OF NURSING & HEALTH SCIENCES AT POST UNIVERSITY | WATERBURY, CT
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BS
- Fastest Time to Completion: Self-Paced
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: For-Profit University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $6,600 for 8 Months
How Fast is ASU’s Online RN to BSN?
ASU’s quickest Online RN to BS is based on its SIMPath® curriculum. This accelerated program is designed to let you complete 10 courses at your own pace. The shortest time to completion in the SIMPath is 2 semesters, but the average length for students is 3 semesters (i.e. 12 months). If you’re able to commit to 8 months, with 5 courses per 16-week semester, you’ll end up paying a cheaper price. There are start dates once a month.
ASU has a generous transfer policy. You’ll receive 60 credits for your ADN or diploma and RN license, and up to 30 credit hours for courses in areas like General Education. Having said that, incoming RN to BS students—on average—end up taking 2 additional General Education courses. So you may want to talk to the program coordinator before you make a decision. One student who opted for the 8-month schedule strongly suggested working part-time!
Why Choose ASU’s Online RN to BSN?
First off, we want to point out that ASU is a for-profit school. However, it’s regionally accredited and CCNE-accredited. ASU students particularly like the fact that the RN to BS is competency-based. You can choose a number of ways to show your mastery of course elements—an essay, video, PowerPoint, or the like. There are no tests or quizzes. The curriculum covers AACN’s Baccalaureate Essentials and admissions requirements are achievable (e.g. minimum 2.0 GPA). Plus there are discounts—ASU offers tuition breaks to military, rural health RNs, and nurses in partner institutions.
Learn More About ASU’s Accelerated RN to BSN
UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN – MILWAUKEE | MILWAUKEE, WI
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN: UW Flexible Option
- Fastest Time to Completion: Self-Paced
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30-64 (Depending on Credit Transfers)
- Total Credits Required: 124
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public Urban Research University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $6,750 for 9 Months
How Fast is UWM’s Online RN to BSN?
UWM’s 100% Online RN to BSN is short & sweet if you choose the UW Flex pathway. In this self-paced All-You-Can-Learn Option, you’re allowed to take as many courses as you’d like within a subscription period (as long as you take 2 or more). Subscription periods start every month and last for ~12 weeks. Each period, you’ll pay a flat tuition rate with no additional fees. Finish your program in 3 periods (~36 weeks/9 months), and you’ll pay less than $7,000.
Info on credit transfers can be found in the section on Transfer Credit Evaluations. Prior college transcripts must be accredited by a regional or national accrediting organization recognized by the CHEA. You’ll receive a minimum of 60 credits for General Education (GE) and nursing credits earned in your ADN or nursing diploma program. UWM also accepts Credit by Exam and Military Credits—read the UWM policy documents for full details.
Why Choose UWM’s Online RN to BSN?
Affordability is a big one! If you’re willing to commit to a full-time schedule and have a lot of credits to transfer, you’ll save a bundle on costs. UWM’s Flex Tuition Guarantee also means that your tuition will never increase as long as you are an active student. The UWM College of Nursing has a sturdy reputation and the curriculum includes a bundle of useful electives, as well as a final clinical practicum capstone. Plus there are no live class times. This is a popular choice for working RNs—most students in UWM’s program are mid-career.
Learn More About UWM’s Online RN to BSN
NORTHERN ARIZONA UNIVERSITY | FLAGSTAFF, AZ
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: Self-Paced
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public Research University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes (with Exceptions)
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $7,500 (Competency-Based) for Two 6-Month Sessions
How Fast is NAU’s Online RN to BSN?
- If you choose NAU’s self-paced, Competency-Based Online/Personalized Learning model, you can finish the Online RN to BSN as quickly as you like. Just be aware that you’ll need to get through 11 courses (30 units), including a capstone and Health Assessment practicum. We’ve used 8 months as an estimate, since this is the figure NAU quotes.
- If you prefer a semester schedule, with classes & teachers, you can choose the traditional program instead. This might take you 2 terms, if you’re able to squeeze 5-6 courses into a term and you don’t have any prerequisites to make up. But it’s likely to take a little longer (e.g. 3-4 terms) and tuition rates will be higher.
Prerequisites & transfer options are listed under the Details tab; up to 90 units can be transferred into the program. This transfer process should be straightforward for RNs who earned their associate degree in nursing from an Arizona Community College. Other RNs should consult with a distance learning advisor to determine transfer credits.
Why Choose NAU’s Online RN to BSN?
NAU is a public research university that offers a self-paced Online RN to BSN at a cheap price. That means you’ll get a degree that’s backed by a respectable School of Nursing with solid—if not outstanding—NCLEX pass rates and a well-known reputation in the state. The School also awards a large number of nursing scholarships. RNs who live in Alabama, Tennessee, Kentucky, and Washington are not allowed to apply to the program.
Learn More About NAU’s Accelerated RN to BSN
WESTERN GOVERNORS UNIVERSITY | MILLCREEK, UT
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: Self-Paced
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 39
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Private University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $7,590 (Competency-Based) for Two 6-Month Sessions
How Fast is WGU’s Online RN to BSN?
Up to you! Famously, WGU uses a competency-based model for the 100% Online RN to BSN. You’re allowed to go quickly or at a slower pace, but you must complete at least 12 competency units (WGU’s equivalent of the credit hour) each 6-month term. There are 24 courses, including 90 practice hours for a field experience; each course is typically 3 or 4 units. We’ve given you a price estimate of 1 year, but a number of RNs finish within 6 months.
WGU accepts RNs with an associate’s degree or diploma in nursing. Almost every student with an RN license can transfer 50-90 credit equivalents from a previous program into the degree (on average, it’s 81 credits). If you’re thinking of graduate work, just keep in mind that WGU graduates do not have a GPA when they earn their degree.
Why Choose WGU’s Online RN to BSN?
It’s popular, convenient, and CCNE-accredited. And—if you’re motivated—it’s pretty darn affordable. WGU even offers a number of tuition scholarships. To get a real sense of what the WGU experience is like, have a look at all the reviews about WGU’s Online RN to BSN circulating on independent review sites and nursing boards. RNs often note that you’ll need to be disciplined & self-motivated.
Learn More About WGU’s Accelerated RN to BSN
CAPELLA UNIVERSITY | MINNEAPOLIS, MN
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN Completion
- Fastest Time to Completion: Self-Paced
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 45 Quarter Credits
- Total Credits Required: 180 Quarter Credits
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: For-Profit University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $9,600 for 9 Months
How Fast is Capella’s Online RN to BSN?
Capella’s Online RN to BSN is run on a FlexPath format—you’re allowed to take unlimited courses (up to 2 at a time) during a 12-week billing session. There are 8 core courses, including a capstone, though you may need to take more credits to make up prerequisites. Classes are primarily based on research papers and PowerPoints, with no tests & discussion boards. Once you write your papers and pass a course, you can move onto the next one. The fastest 25% of RNs finish the program in 9 months; we’ve used this timeframe for the tuition price.
Capella’s section on Courses also contains information on General Education prerequisites. There’s a lot of flexibility here—coursework falls into 4 broad categories: Humanities, Communications, Natural Sciences & Mathematics, and Social Science. If you have a hodgepodge of previous credits, you’re almost bound to be able to transfer them.
Why Choose Capella’s Online RN to BSN?
Flexibility. Like WGU, Capella is banking its reputation on the self-paced model. Capella is regionally accredited and CCNE-accredited, but it is a for-profit institution. So you should consider if you feel comfortable with that designation. On the upside, you may be eligible for tuition discounts through the ANA or your employer. You’ll find a huge number of discussions about the FlexPath on nursing message boards and independent review sites. According to RNs who have been through the program, it works for folks who are motivated, disciplined, and like reading & writing.
Learn More About Capella’s Accelerated RN to BSN
UNIVERSITY OF TOLEDO | TOLEDO, OH
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: Self-Paced
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public Research University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $10,958+ Fees (In-State) | $10,968 + Fees (Out-of-State)
How Fast is UT’s Online RN to BSN?
UT uses a self-paced Competency-Based Education (CBE) model for its Online RN to BSN—you choose how fast you want to complete the program. On the program website, it says that full-time CBE students can finish the RN to BSN in as few as two semesters (15 weeks each), but it can take longer. The program has a flexible start—you can enroll during the first 9 weeks of each semester.
Transfers & prerequisites are outlined on the program page. Use UT’s Transferology tool to determine course equivalencies. Up to 90 credits can be transferred from your diploma or associate degree in nursing and your RN license.
Why Choose UT’s Online RN to BSN?
Like NAU and UWM, UT is another public research university that has taken the plunge into self-paced Online RN to BSN degrees. If you want the freedom to dictate your own schedule, have at it! The College of Nursing is a mid-tier school with ties to the University of Toledo Medical Center. And its Online RN to BSN is the first program in the state to receive recognition from Quality Matters for coursework & faculty expertise.
Learn More About UT’s Accelerated RN to BSN
ANDERSON UNIVERSITY | ANDERSON, SC
Program Length
- Program: Online FLEX RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: Self-Paced
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 28
- Total Credits Required: 121
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Private Christian University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $13,000 (Estimated 35 Weeks/5 Terms)
How Fast is AU’s Online RN to BSN?
AU’s Online FLEX RN to BSN is self-paced and competency-based. The curriculum consists of 10 nursing courses, as well as a nursing-related senior project. Courses are offered in a 7-week online format. You have the option to take as many as 4 courses in one seven-week term. If you finish 2 courses within five weeks, you can add up to two more for free. We’ve used a broad estimate of 5 terms for completion (2 courses per 7-week term). But tuition will be cheaper if you can get things done more quickly!
Prerequisites and transfer details are outlined in the degree listing within the Undergraduate Catalog. 34 credits will transferred from your ADN or ASN. You’ll also receive additional hours of credit for having previously taken anatomy, physiology, and microbiology.
Why Choose AU’s Online RN to BSN?
AU’s School of Nursing has a great reputation within South Carolina. Faculty are working nurses. NCLEX pass rates are excellent. And clinical affiliations include all kinds of hospitals, including AnMed Health and Bon Secours St. Francis Health System. Anderson is a Christian school, so keep in mind that programs have a Christ-centered ethos.
Learn More About AU’s Accelerated RN to BSN
LOURDES UNIVERSITY | SYLVANIA, OH
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN Competency-Based Education (CBE)
- Fastest Time to Completion: Self-Paced
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 21
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Private Franciscan University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $14,000 (2 CBE Terms/8 Months)
How Fast is Lourdes’s Online RN to BSN?
Lourdes has developed a self-paced model for its Online RN to BSN Competency-Based Education (CBE) Program. You’ll pay a flat tuition rate for each 4-month term and complete as many courses as you wish—Lourdes estimates that students can finish in 2 subscription terms/8 months. The program is 100% online, with monthly start dates and no set class times or group projects.
View the full list of program courses to get a sense of credit transfers. Lourdes wants to see 15 hours of General Education prerequisites (e.g. Statistics) and additional GE coursework. After successful completion of NUR 460 “Concepts in Professional Nursing,” RN to BSN students will be awarded 39 semester hours of bypass credit.
Why Choose Lourdes’s Online RN to BSN?
Lourdes’s College of Nursing doesn’t have the greatest NCLEX pass rates—it was put on warning by the Ohio Board of Nursing in 2019 for 2 years of terrible statistics (e.g. below 82%)—but student reviews tend to be positive. Alumni often mention the small school feel and personalized attention.
Learn More About Lourdes’s Online RN to BSN
LAKE-SUMTER STATE COLLEGE | LEESBURG, FL
Program Length
- Program: Online RN-BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public College
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: No
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $3,668 (In-State Only)
How Fast is LSSC’s Online RN to BSN?
For Florida RNs, it’s fast! LSSC states that its 100% Online RN-BSN can be finished in 2 semesters (15 credits per semester). You’ll be able to start in the fall, spring, or summer. All coursework is online; clinical practicums in the Capstone and Community Health Nursing can be completed in your local community.
Lower division degree requirements are listed in the LSSC Catalog. Prerequisites include Statistics and Microbiology w/Lab.
Why Choose LSSC’s Online RN to BSN?
LSSC is a highly affordable pick for Florida residents—per semester tuition rates are very low. The Online RN-BSN curriculum can be customized with 2 electives (e.g. Medical Disaster Management) and it includes a final Capstone. LSSC doesn’t have the name recognition of big Florida universities, but NCLEX pass rates are sturdy at this ACEN-accredited school and job placement is strong.
Learn More About LSSC’s Accelerated RN to BSN
ALBANY STATE UNIVERSITY | ALBANY, GA
Program Length
- Program: Online RN-to-BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 27
- Total Credits Required: 121
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public Historically Black University (HBCU)
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $5,152 (In-State); $5,953 (Out-of-State)
How Fast is ASU’s Online RN to BSN?
ASU’s 100% Online RN-to-BSN is available in a full-time format of 2 consecutive semesters or a part-time format of 4 consecutive semesters. Anyone applying to the full-time track must have no more than 0-12 hours of core prerequisites to complete. Georgia RNs are admitted into this joint USG/ASU program each semester.
The Undergraduate Catalog contains a full rundown of admissions requirements and the program of study. After successful completion of 8 semester hours of the RN to BSN program, 33 equivalent credit hours for previous nursing courses will be awarded.
Why Choose ASU’s Online RN to BSN?
ASU is a viable choice for any RN—it’s highly affordable, ACEN-accredited, and strong on completion rates. The Department of Nursing is part of the Darton College of Health Professions, and it’s big enough to offer graduate programs in FNP and Nurse Educator.
Learn More About ASU’s Accelerated RN to BSN
NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL UNIVERSITY | DURHAM, NC
Program Length
- Program: Online RN-to-BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public Historically Black University (HBCU)
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: No
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $5,510 (In-State Only)
How Fast is NCCU’s Online RN to BSN?
On a full-time schedule, NCCU’s 100% Online RN-to-BSN can be completed in 2 semesters. North Carolina RNs can also choose a part-time schedule of 2 years. There are 3 start dates in summer, fall, or spring. Most courses are 8 weeks in length; the 15-week practicum in Community Health Nursing can be tackled in your local area.
Have a look at the Undergraduate Catalog to get a sense of General Education requirements. Students are granted 61.0 Advance placement credits for their Associate Degree in Nursing or the Diploma in Nursing.
Why Choose NCCU’s Online RN to BSN?
If you’re lucky enough to have a North Carolina RN license, NCCU is a super-affordable choice. The ACEN-accredited Department of Nursing isn’t as prestigious as UNC-affiliated schools, but it has plenty of ties to clinical sites in the Durham area and a diverse student body (NCCU is an HBCU school).
Learn More About ASU’s Accelerated RN to BSN
GEORGIA SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY | STATESBORO, GA
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 31
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public Research University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Only Multi-State Compact License
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $7,180 (In-State Only)
How Fast is GSU’s Online RN to BSN?
GSU suggests that full-time students can get through the Online RN to BSN in 2 semesters. Semesters at GSU are 15 weeks long, so we’re estimating the whole program might take 8 months (e.g. 4-5 courses per semester). During that time, you’ll complete 28 credits of nursing coursework + 3-credit elective. There’s a mandatory 1-day SOAR orientation that’s offered online. And the Community Nursing course has a 60-hour clinical component.
Prerequisites can be found in the Curriculum section & Academic Catalog. You’re allowed to transfer up to 60 credits of core coursework & prerequisites into the program. After you complete 6 hours of RN to BSN nursing courses, GSU will also award you 29 advanced standing credits in the nursing major.
Why Choose GSU’s Online RN to BSN?
GSU’s program is aimed at Georgia RNs or RNs with a valid multi-state compact license. The School of Nursing has fairly mediocre NCLEX pass rates. But certification pass rates on graduate nursing programs are strong, faculty are experienced, and independent reviews are positive. One BSN graduate especially liked GSU’s clinical connections to Savannah area hospitals. The School also offers a BSN to DNP option.
Learn More About GSU’s Accelerated RN to BSN
UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA MEDICAL CENTER | OMAHA, NE
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 20
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public Medical School
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes—Check Available States
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $7,240 + Fees
How Fast is UNMC’s Online RN to BSN?
UNMC’s 100% Online RN to BSN is available in a 2-semester format. If you only need to complete 20 credits, this plan of study would involve taking 3 courses per semester. But please ask the RN to BSN program coordinator if additional coursework will be required.
And check the section on Prerequisite Courses before you apply. Courses marked with an asterisk (e.g. Statistics) must be completed within 7 years of beginning the program. Because UNMC is a public medical school, it doesn’t offer prerequisites. However, you can take them at any accredited community college, 4-year college or university.
Why Choose UNMC’s Online RN to BSN?
It’s a well-respected program from a big-name school in the Midwest. The College of Nursing is strong on research, graduate programs, and practice & clinical partnerships. It has ties to 100+ healthcare institutions across Nebraska and regional states. And it’s a great deal. Nebraska community college students can apply for Early Admission to the Online RN to BSN. You can also choose to take a hybrid version of this degree, with monthly face-to-face groups in North Platte.
Learn More About UNMC’s Accelerated RN to BSN
CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY – SACRAMENTO | SACRAMENTO, CA
Program Length
- Program: Online/Hybrid RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: No
- Format: Hybrid with On-Campus Coursework
- Estimated Total Cost: $7,484 (In-State Only)
How Fast is Sacramento State’s Online RN to BSN?
If you push it, Sac State’s Online/Hybrid RN to BSN can be finished 2 semesters: 15 course units in the first semester, with a 90-hour practicum for Community Health Nursing, and 15 course units in the second semester. Part-time options are also available. Core RN to BSN nursing coursework equals 27 units, but you must tackle at least 30 units at Sac State in order to graduate. Students usually add an upper level General Education course to meet this requirement.
Prerequisites are listed under the Admissions Requirements. You can transfer ~71 credits into the program. During the final semester of your RN to BSN, Sac State will grant you an additional 19 course units for your NCLEX-RN license (i.e. block credits).
Why Choose Sacramento State’s Online RN to BSN?
Like CSUF, Sac State is a solid public option for CA students—this RN to BSN is open to California residents with a valid CA RN license. Just keep in mind that 25% of coursework may be on-campus or synchronous. The School of Nursing isn’t a heavy hitter on the national stage, but it’s well-known in the state and NCLEX pass rates are solid. Alumni say the school is good about catering to working nurses. Modest scholarships are available.
Learn More About Sacramento State’s Accelerated RN to BSN
CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY – FULLERTON | FULLERTON, CA
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30-33
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: No
- Format: Online with In-Person Clinical Labs
- Estimated Total Cost: $7,513 (In-State Only)
How Fast is CSUF’s Online RN to BSN?
The quickest time-frame for CSUF’s Online RN to BSN is two 16-week semesters (fall/spring or spring/fall). However, the program is also offered in part-time schedules. And students are allowed to take a semester off. The majority of coursework is online, but there are in-person clinical labs for Health Assessment and Population Health Nursing. These labs are offered in partner facilities in certain CA counties (e.g. Orange, Riverside, Los Angeles, and San Bernardino).
The Admissions section has details on acceptable prerequisites. It’s worth noting that students without a previously earned bachelor’s degree must complete at least 9 units of upper-division General Education at CSUF. So you may end up having to complete 24 RN to BSN credits + 9 GE credits = 33 total credits. See the RN to BSN FAQ section for more details.
Why Choose CSUF’s Online RN to BSN?
CSUF is a school for Californians—you must have a CA RN license or be eligible for one to apply. If you make it into the program, you can take advantage of all the benefits at the School of Nursing, including its reasonable tuition rates, convenient labs, and great clinical facility partners. Another bonus? CSUF also appears in our Best Online RN to BSN Rankings, meaning it’s a great value for the money.
Learn More About CSUF’s Accelerated RN to BSN
UNIVERSITY OF UTAH | SALT LAKE CITY, UT
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BS
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 122
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public Research University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: Online with Optional Campus Visits
- Estimated Total Cost: $7,800 + One-Off Fees
How Fast is U of U’s Online RN to BSN?
U of U’s general Online RN to BS is available in three schedules: 2 semesters, 3 semesters, or 4 semesters. The Geriatric Nursing Leadership (GNL) track is only available in a 4-semester format. In the fastest scenario, you would take 5 courses in the first 16-week semester and 4 courses in the second 16-week semester. The curriculum includes a 1-day orientation, a poster presentation, and 113 hours of practicums/field experiences. You can start the RN to BS in any semester; the GNL track has a fall start. View sample schedules.
Prerequisites are laid out in the Eligibility & Prerequisites section. Once you’re admitted, U of U will also award you an additional 30 nursing credits for RN licensure. Extra credit transfers are available, but 20 of your last 30 credit hours must be completed at the University of Utah. Request a transcript evaluation and check out the Online RN to BS FAQs section for more info.
Why Choose U of U’s Online RN to BSN?
There’s a reason U of U also appears in our Best Online RN to BSN Rankings. The College of Nursing has plenty to boast about, including sturdy national rankings for its graduate programs, a strong reputation in geriatric nursing, and ties to University of Utah Health. In prior years, the UOnline One Rate has been very low for in-state and out-of-state students—check the tuition page for the latest prices and learn if you qualify for any undergraduate scholarships.
Learn More About U OF U’s Accelerated RN to BSN
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA | MOBILE, AL
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 24
- Total Credits Required: 124
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public Research University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes (with Exceptions)
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $7,872 + Fees
How Fast is USA’s Online RN to BSN?
You can set your own pace with USA’s Online RN to BSN. If you prefer full-time, the program takes 2 semesters, with a fall or spring start. USA has 16-week semesters, so this schedule equates to around 8 months. If you need to go slower, you’re allowed to complete the RN to BSN within 5 years of enrollment. As a bonus, there are only 6 required nursing courses (24 credits in total) and clinical hours can be tackled at your place of employment.
USA wants to see 59 credits of prerequisites (i.e. 18 courses). It will also award you 30 credit hours of nursing credits (i.e. advanced standing or block credits) in the semester you graduate from the Online RN to BSN. USA’s traditional BSN is 124 credits, which is why we’ve used that number in the total credits required. But USA may be content with fewer transfer credits for the RN to BSN.
Why Choose USA’s Online RN to BSN?
USA’s College of Nursing has a few things going for it. It’s happy to offer the same cheap RN to BSN tuition to all students, regardless of their state of residence. It has achieved excellent NCLEX pass rates in recent years (e.g. 95%+). It maintains close clinical ties to hospitals in USA Health. It awards undergraduate nursing scholarships. And it has developed an RN to BSN/MSN option. A couple of things to note—reviews of USA Nursing are somewhat mixed and the RN to BSN is not available to New York and South Dakota residents.
Learn More About USA’s Accelerated RN to BSN
MARSHALL UNIVERSITY | HUNTINGTON, WV
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 28
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public Research University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $8,160
How Fast is Marshall’s Online RN to BSN?
Marshall’s 100% Online RN to BSN is available in a full-time, 2-semester plan of study—this would involve 4 courses in the first semester and 4 courses in the second semester. Some BSN courses will include project-based experiences in your local community—see the RN to BSN Handbook for details and a sample schedule.
Core curriculum education requirements are also listed in the RN to BSN Handbook. The School of Nursing will award up to 40 hours of undergraduate nursing credit for RN licensure after the first 12 nursing credit hours in the RN to BSN are complete.
Why Choose Marshall’s Online RN to BSN?
This ACEN-accredited Online RN to BSN is a great deal for in-state and out-of-state students. The School of Nursing is the largest regional provider of nursing education in a major university. It consistently achieves strong NCLEX & NP certification pass rates. It offers Online MSN options. And it tends to receive excellent independent reviews from happy nursing alumni!
Learn More About Marshall’s Accelerated RN to BSN
DELTA STATE UNIVERSITY | CLEVELAND, MS
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 27
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $8,190 + Fees
How Fast is DSU’s Online RN to BSN?
On a full-time schedule, RNs in this 100% Online RN to BSN can finish the program in 2 semesters, starting in the fall term. Part-time schedules are also available. In the first 15-week semester (14 credit hours), you’ll have practicums in Health Assessment and Community Health. In the second semester (13 credit hours), you’ll have a practicum in Management of Client Care. Applications are accepted year-round.
Prerequisites are listed under the Curriculum section. After you’ve completed certain 300-level courses in the RN to BSN, DSU will also award you a validation credit of 39 hours for other nursing courses taken in your associate or diploma program.
Why Choose DSU’s Online RN to BSN?
Affordability! According to DSU Admissions, there are $0 out-of-state tuition fees for non-Mississippi residents. The School of Nursing may be in the middle of the pack for Online MSN rankings, but it has superb NCLEX pass rates (e.g. 98% in recent years). And it makes a point of catering to working students.
Learn More About DSU’s Accelerated RN to BSN
UTAH STATE UNIVERSITY | LOGAN, UT
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 31
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $8,305 (In-State) | $11,842 (Out-of-State)
How Fast is USU’s Online RN to BSN?
On a full-time schedule, USU’s ACEN-accredited Online RN to BSN can be finished in 2 semesters. You can also choose a part-time 3- or 4-semester plan of study. In the quickest scenario, you’d take 6 courses in the first semester—including four 7-week courses—and 5 courses in the second semester, including mandatory Population Health and Capstone practicums.
All USU applicants must have completed an AAS/ADN RN program in an accredited program approved by the U.S. Department of Education. Prerequisites are laid out in USU’s University Catalog; statistics is required.
Why Choose USU’s Online RN to BSN?
USU is well-known within the state of Utah. NCLEX pass rates for the Department of Nursing can be variable, but the university often achieves a great national ranking from U.S. News & World Report for its Online Bachelor’s Programs and the Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services is large and well-respected. Specific nursing scholarships are also available.
Learn More About USU’s Accelerated RN to BSN
LEWIS-CLARK STATE COLLEGE | LEWISTON, ID
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 25
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public College
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $8,362 + Course Costs (e.g. Textbooks)
How Fast is LCSC’s Online RN to BSN?
LCSC is super-flexible when it comes to its Online RN to BSN. On a full-time plan, you could speed through the curriculum in 2 semesters, taking 5 courses in the first semester (12 credits) and 5 in the second (13 credits). Each semester would include a practicum. But LCSC also offers a 3-semester plan, a 5-semester plan, or a “build your own schedule.” On average, RNs with full-time jobs end up choosing 4 semesters/16 months. If needs be, you can enroll in one class at a time or take the summers off.
RNs with an associate degree in nursing from a regionally accredited school are going to have the simplest transfer path—you probably won’t need to take any extra General Education courses. (Current ASN or ADN students can even take RN to BSN courses concurrently.) If you have a diploma or AAS, you can ask LCSC for a preliminary evaluation of credits to learn if you meet all the prerequisites.
Why Choose LCSC’s Online RN to BSN?
LCSC is the hidden gem in our list—fast, affordable, and academically solid. The Division of Nursing & Health Sciences (NHS) gets rave reviews from students on independent sites. Alumni loved the low student-to-teacher ratio, the helpful & friendly faculty, and the challenging & up-to-date coursework. Thanks to solid NCLEX pass rates, the NHS has a strong reputation in Idaho. And BSN students usually receive excellent job offers, sometimes before they’ve graduated. You may even be eligible for LCSC Scholarships.
Learn More About LCSC’s Accelerated RN to BSN
KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY | FRANKFORT, KY
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 33
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public Historically Black University (HBCU)
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $8,400 + Fees (e.g. Achievement Exams)
How Fast is KSU’s Online RN to BSN?
If you’re willing to put in the hours, you’ll be able to finish KSU’s Online RN to BSN in 2 semesters. A full-time plan of study would involve 6 courses in the first semester, including a Public Health Nursing Practicum, and 6 courses in the second semester, including a Nursing Leadership Practicum and Capstone.
To get a sense of prerequisites, check out the Plan of Study on the Online RN to BSN homepage. There are 51 credits of requirements. KSU will also grant you 38 Advanced Placement in Nursing credits.
Why Choose KSU’s Online RN to BSN?
KSU’s School of Nursing is ACEN-accredited. NCLEX and board certification pass rates aren’t great, but the School does offer a BSN to DNP program. It’s also fairly small, which means you may have more individual attention during your degree. See the RN-BSN Tuition & Fees section on the Online RN to BSN homepage for an estimated budget.
Learn More About KSU’s Accelerated RN to BSN
UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL OKLAHOMA | EDMOND, OK
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BS
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 124
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $8,694 + Fees (In-State) | $21,466+ Fees (Out-of-State)
How Fast is UCO’s Online RN to BSN?
If speed is of the essence, UCO’s 100% Online RN to BS could be just the ticket. On a full-time schedule, RNs can complete the program in 2 semesters. Each semester is 16-weeks long and RN to BSN courses are 8 weeks in length. So we’re estimating you could manage 5 courses per semester. At least 30 credit hours/10 courses must be completed at UCO, including core nursing credits.
Prerequisites are listed on the program page. ADN and ASN graduates often meet UCO Core Requirements (42-44 credit hours), but students with an AAS will be required to complete them. Upon completion of the RN to BS, UCO will award 35 hours of advanced standing credit to current RNs who have an associate degree in nursing from an accredited program.
Why Choose UCO’s Online RN to BSN?
UCO’s Department of Nursing may not be in the elite of nursing schools, but it has achieved respectable NCLEX pass rates in recent years (e.g. 93%+) and it gets good marks on independent review sites & nursing message boards. One student noted that instructors genuinely care about your learning & success. We also like the fact RN to BS students can apply to take 5000-level NURS courses during their senior year. These courses can count towards a BS and MS degree. Just be aware that graduate courses cost more.
Learn More About UCO’s Accelerated RN to BSN
OKLAHOMA PANHANDLE STATE UNIVERSITY | GOODWELL, OK
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $8,889
How Fast is OPSU’s Online RN to BSN?
OPSU’s 100% Online RN to BSN is available in a full-time, 2-semester format or a part-time, 4-semester format. On a full-time schedule, you’d take four 8-week courses in the first semester and four 8-week courses in the second semester. You can start in the fall, spring, or summer.
Prerequisites are listed in the section called BSN Program Graduation Requirements—OPSU will only accept General Education (GE) credits from regionally accredited institutions. 30 hours of lower division credit will be awarded for your accredited Associate of Science in Nursing, Associate of Applied Science in Nursing, or diploma program.
Why Choose OPSU’s Online RN to BSN?
This ACEN-accredited program is the brainchild of OPSU’s College of Agriculture, Science, and Nursing. The College has done its best to make this RN to BSN affordable for locals—it offers a special RN to BSN tuition discount to Oklahoma residents from eligible colleges. On-time completion rates also tend to be respectable (e.g. 87%+).
Learn More About OPSU’s Accelerated RN to BSN
UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL MISSOURI | WARRENSBURG, MO
Program Length
- Program: Online RN-BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $9,072
How Fast is UCM’s Online RN to BSN?
UCM gives you 2 choices for its 100% Online RN-BSN—you can opt for the accelerated 8-month schedule or a more flexible part-time plan. In the 8-month calendar, the curriculum is divided into four 8-week sessions. You might take 3 courses in the first session, 2 courses in the second, 3 courses in the third, and 3 courses in the fourth. There are 2 practicums in Community Health and Nursing Leadership in Management. You can start this 2-semester program in the fall, spring, or summer term.
Wondering if you’ll need to add extra courses to make up transfer credits? UCM offers a free transcript evaluation. If you have an Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree or a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, you probably won’t have to take any additional General Education coursework.
Why Choose UCM’s Online RN to BSN?
No out-of-state tuition—that’s one of the key things that makes UCM’s Online RN-BSN special. You’ll get a fast schedule and a reasonable price regardless of your location. The School of Nursing isn’t a research powerhouse, but the MSN programs receive great independent reviews from graduates. Plus you’ll be among committed colleagues. In its Admissions section, UCM notes that it’s looking for RN-BSN candidates with a minimum 2.5 GPA.
Learn More About UCM’s Accelerated RN to BSN
TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY | NASHVILLE, TN
Program Length
- Program: Online RN-BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public Historically Black University (HBCU)
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $9,086 (In-State) | $22,442 (Out-of-State)
How Fast is TSU’s Online RN to BSN?
This 100% Online RN-BSN can be finished in 2 semesters. A full-time plan of study would require 5 courses in the first semester, including a Health Assessment Lab, and 6 courses in the second semester, including a Community Health Nursing Clinical. Practicums can be tackled in your home community.
Check the Required Courses section for a list of prerequisites. All RN-BSN candidates must have completed 60 credit hours of lower-division courses, including General Education courses. Upon admission, students can have a total of 6 hours remaining of prerequisites in the areas of communication, general electives, or humanities.
Why Choose TSU’s Online RN to BSN?
TSU’s ACEN-accredited School of Nursing doesn’t have the best track record in NCLEX pass rates, but it does have existing relationships with Nashville-area hospitals and healthcare agencies. Plus board certification & completion rates are pretty strong for the MSN programs. As a BSN graduate, you might even choose to pursue a rare MSN in Holistic Nursing.
Learn More About TSU’s Accelerated RN to BSN
MIDWESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY TEXAS | FLOWER MOUND, TX
Program Length
- Program: Online RN Transition (BSN)
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public Liberal Arts University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: No
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $9,111 incl. Security Fees (In-State Only)
How Fast is MSU Texas’s Online RN to BSN?
MSU Texas’s Online RN Transition (BSN) can be tackled in 2 or 3 semesters for full-time students and 4 semesters for part-time students. You’ll be required to complete 30 credits in total, including 3 credits in an advanced elective, clinicals in Leadership Roles & Comprehensive Health Assessment, and a capstone project.
The Undergraduate Catalog contains a full list of prerequisites. MSU Texas will award up to 38 credit hours for the ADN. Core and nursing prerequisite courses can be taken at any community college or university, but applicants must complete the Texas Common Core at their institution of choice.
Why Choose MSU Texas’s Online RN to BSN?
MSU Texas is a viable choice for Texans. The Wilson School of Nursing offers dual ADN/RN-BSN enrollment programs with a number of local community colleges and tuition prices are fairly affordable. However, NCLEX pass rates have not been strong in recent years. If you are coming from a Texas community college, ask if you are eligible for any Transfer Scholarships.
Learn More About MSU Texas’s Accelerated RN to BSN
UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND-BALTIMORE | BALTIMORE, MD
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 31
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Only MBON Compact States
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $9,196 (In-State) | $37,738 (Out-of-State)
How Fast is UMB’s Online RN to BSN?
On a full-time schedule, UMB’s 100% Online RN to BSN can be completed in 2 semesters. In this scenario, you might take 4-5 courses in the first semester and 4-5 courses in the second semester. The program starts in the spring or fall.
Prerequisites are listed on the Online RN to BSN homepage. UMB is happy to evaluate unofficial transcripts and lower division courses may be completed at any accredited college or university. If you have taken coursework in Maryland, the Articulation System for Maryland Colleges and Universities (ARTSYS) will help you determine your transfers. You’ll also receive 30 credits for your valid RN license.
Why Choose UMB’s Online RN to BSN?
It’s one of the best programs in the country! The University of Maryland School of Nursing (UMSON) achieves great independent reviews and excellent U.S. News & World Report rankings. It has strong ties to 300+ clinical learning sites, research centers, and UMMC. Employees of partnership hospitals receive on-site benefits, mentoring, and help with practicum placement during the RN to BSN. And this degree can be customized with 3 electives in a BSN focus area. Best of all? UMSON scholarships are available.
Learn More About UMB’s Accelerated RN to BSN
TROY UNIVERSITY | TROY, AL
Program Length
- Program: Online RN Mobility (RN-BSN)
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 24
- Total Credits Required: 124
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes—Check with RN to BSN Program Coordinator
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $9,312
How Fast is Troy’s Online RN to BSN?
Full-time students can finish Troy’s Online RN Mobility (RN-BSN) program in 2 semesters/8 months. A 4-semester schedule is also available. There is even a special 18-week RN Mobility Flexible Option for RNs who have worked at least one year in a leadership position.
Prerequisites are listed in the Undergraduate Catalog. However, certain General Studies course requirements may be different for RN Mobility students. Ask the RN to BSN program coordinator or the Director of Admission & Records at the School of Nursing in Montgomery for more details.
Why Choose Troy’s Online RN to BSN?
All TROY Online students—both in-state and out-of-state—pay the same affordable tuition rate. Military & Family Tuition Discounts and Online Transfer Awards are also available. The ACEN-accredited School of Nursing tends to receive good reviews on independent websites and it offers a number of online graduate programs, including BSN to DNP pathways.
Learn More About Troy’s Accelerated RN to BSN
MINOT STATE UNIVERSITY | MINOT, ND
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $9,508 incl. Course Fees
How Fast is Minot State’s Online RN to BSN?
On a full-time schedule, you can tackle Minot State’s 100% Online RN to BSN in as few as 2 semesters. Keep in mind that 30 credits must be completed at the university—23 credits of RN to BSN & special topics courses and 7 credits of electives, General Education (GE) courses, and/or Statistics.
Use the RN to BSN Program Fact Sheet to learn more about prerequisites & GE requirements. These courses can be taken before or during the program, but Statistics must be completed before taking NURS 363. 40 credits will be granted for your NCLEX-RN.
Why Choose Minot State’s Online RN to BSN?
Minot State’s Department of Nursing isn’t as well-known as UND or UMary in North Dakota, but it offers plenty of Nursing Scholarships and debt rates for graduates are usually low. RN to BSN students also have the chance to focus on one of two special topics: Transcultural Healthcare or Quality & Risk Management in Healthcare.
Learn More About Minot State’s Accelerated RN to BSN
AUSTIN PEAY STATE UNIVERSITY | CLARKSVILLE, TN
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $9,938 (In-State) | $16,868 (Out-of-State)
How Fast is APSU’s Online RN to BSN?
APSU’s Online RN to BSN can be tackled on a full-time schedule (2 semesters) or part-time schedule (4 semesters). Full-time students take 5 courses in the first semester and 5 courses in the second semester, including a Leadership for RNs course with a clinical practicum. The program is 100% online and there are 5 start dates per year.
Prerequisites are outlined on the program page; APSU will want to see Statistics. The program page doesn’t contain much info on the actual process of credit transfers—ask the RN to BSN program coordinator if you need help with transcript evaluations.
Why Choose APSU’s Online RN to BSN?
APSU is a reasonable choice for Tennessee students—the School of Nursing achieves strong NCLEX pass rates and has local connections to 40+ BSN clinical sites. Anyone thinking of applying should check out the sections on School of Nursing Scholarships and Non-Traditional Scholarship Opportunities.
Learn More About APSU’s Online RN to BSN
MOUNT CARMEL COLLEGE OF NURSING | COLUMBUS, OH
Program Length
- Program: Online RN-BSN Completion
- Fastest Time to Completion: 8-9 Months/2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Private Catholic College
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $10,000
How Fast is MCCN’s Online RN to BSN?
If you commit to taking 2 courses per 6-week session, you can complete MCCN’s Online RN-BSN Completion Program in 2 semesters. There are 3 sessions offered in the fall & spring semesters and 2 sessions in the summer semester. Part-time students can choose to take 1 class each 6-week session. The program is 100% online; everyone is required to take a Virtual Student Orientation course prior to starting the curriculum.
Through RN licensure and prior academic credit, up to 90 credits will be accepted for transfer into the program. You must complete 30 credits at MCCN. Dual enrollment students may be admitted prior to holding RN licensure, but must have a valid RN license by the time of enrollment in 400-level nursing courses.
Why Choose MCCN’s Online RN to BSN?
MCCN is a Catholic college that runs the largest private BSN program in Ohio. Reviews of the traditional program are uniformly positive, with undergraduate students praising the attentive professors, small class sizes, and clinical connections. MCCN is affiliated with Mount Carmel Health System & Trinity Health and it offers a Nursing Partners Tuition Discount to a number of OH healthcare institution & hospital employees.
Learn More About MCCN’s Online RN to BSN
ALCORN STATE UNIVERSITY | ALCORN, MS
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 34
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public Historically Black University (HBCU)
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $10,330
How Fast is ASU’s Online RN to BSN?
This 100% Online RN to BSN is packed into 2 semesters. You will take 6 courses in the first semester, including a Health Assessment Lab, and 6 courses in the second semester, including a Nursing Leadership & Management Lab and Nursing of Communities & Populations Lab. Practicums/labs can be completed in your local community.
Prerequisites & lower-level requirements are outlined in the Undergraduate Catalog. 26 hours of credit will be awarded to each RN to BSN student as credit-by-examination hours.
Why Choose ASU’s Online RN to BSN?
ASU’s ACEN-accredited School of Nursing runs its own Family Clinic, achieves solid NCLEX pass rates, and keeps its tuition rates down. Anyone coming from a local community college is also eligible for the Mississippi Resident Community College Transfer Graduates Scholarship.
Learn More About ASU’s Accelerated RN to BSN
TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES CENTER | LUBBOCK, TX
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public Academic Health Science Center
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $10,341 (In-State) | $16,451 (Out-of-State)
How Fast is TTUHSC’s Online RN to BSN?
Full-time students can muscle through TTUHSC’s quick Online RN to BSN in 2 semesters/8 months. In this degree plan, you would take 6 courses in the first semester (one course is not-for-credit) and 6 courses in the second semester, including an elective. Part-time plans are also available, but all students must finish within 2 years. The program is 100% online, with 5-week courses and no mandatory log-in times. Some courses will involve clinical hours or fieldwork.
Prerequisites are listed in full on the RN to BSN website; you can also ask for a Transcript Evaluation to see if your previous coursework meets the criteria. TTUHSC is an upper-level Health Science Center, so it does not offer General Education courses. If you need to make up those credits, you’ll have to take them at another school.
Why Choose TTUHSC’s Online RN to BSN?
TTUHSC’s School of Nursing has plenty to recommend it. It’s an NLN Center of Excellence with solid NCLEX pass rates, low student-to-faculty ratios, and a track record of producing happy BSN graduates. It makes a point of supporting first generation university students, minorities, and veterans. It has developed an Online RN to BSN with unique course offerings (e.g. Health Intervention Design) and electives. And it’s relatively affordable for Texans. No wonder it appears in our Best Online RN to BSN Rankings!
Learn More About TTUHSC’s Accelerated RN to BSN
UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HEALTH SCIENCE CENTER AT HOUSTON | HOUSTON, TX
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 31
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public Academic Health Science Center
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $10,577 (In-State Only)
How Fast is UTHealth’s Online RN to BSN?
This 100% Online RN to BSN can be tackled over 2 semesters (e.g. 5 courses per 16-week semester), 3 semesters (e.g. 3-4 courses per semester), or extended even further to 4 or 5 semesters. The full-time schedule is fairly intense, with a Community Health practicum in the second semester, but this project can be completed in your home area. View the Sample Curriculum Plans.
The BSN Prerequisite Guide has a full rundown on transfer policies & prerequisites. Once you’ve fulfilled your 60 hours of prerequisites and completed third year RN to BSN nursing courses at UTHealth, 29 transfer hours will be given to you as advanced placement credits.
Why Choose UTHealth’s Online RN to BSN?
If you live in Texas, this is one to put on your shortlist. The Cizik School of Nursing is studded with quality markers, including glowing student reviews, great national rankings for its graduate programs, and strong NCLEX pass rates. It’s located in the heart of the Texas Medical Center, with ties to Houston healthcare institutions. And it’s developed convenient BSN to DNP pathways (ask the program coordinator if BSN graduates receive alumni tuition discounts). These are just a few of the reasons why it’s also in our Best Online RN to BSN Rankings.
Learn More About UTHealth’s Accelerated RN to BSN
UVA WISE | WISE, VA
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public Liberal Arts College
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $11,162 (In-State) | $30,672 (Out-of-State)
How Fast is UVA Wise’s Online RN to BSN?
UVA Wise states that its Online RN to BSN can be completed in 2-4 semesters, depending on prerequisite courses. Semesters are 16 weeks in length, so that works out to 8 months of RN to BSN coursework on a full-time schedule. The curriculum contains a lot of work in rural health & Appalachian healthcare issues. There’s also an optional minor in Leadership Studies.
When it comes to transfers, UVA Wise will award you 39 credits in lower division nursing courses from associate degree or diploma coursework. It will also want to see 51 credits of General Education coursework, including MTH 1180.
Why Choose UVA Wise’s Online RN to BSN?
Because of its unique curriculum, UVA Wise might be a good pick for Appalachia-area RNs who are interested in rural issues. In addition, the Department of Nursing likes to boast about its small class sizes and minimal student debt. Check out the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) Tuition Discount and Department of Nursing Awards.
Learn More About UVA Wise’s Online RN to BSN
CLARKSON COLLEGE | OMAHA, NE
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 37
- Total Credits Required: 130
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Private College in Health Sciences
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $11,470
How Fast is Clarkson’s Online RN to BSN?
Clarkson’s 100% Online RN to BSN is available in a full-time, 2-semester plan of study or a part-time, 6-semester format. You can begin in the fall, spring, or summer. The RN to BSN curriculum consists of 37 credits; you’ll be required to take a minimum of 27 credits at Clarkson.
General Education (GE) requirements & Health Care Core prerequisites are listed in the College Catalog. In total, 93 semester hours will be granted through previous completion of direct coursework or by validation credit (credit is granted after demonstration of equivalent knowledge).
Why Choose Clarkson’s Online RN to BSN?
Connections! Thanks to its health science roots, Clarkson has a long-standing affiliation with Nebraska Medicine—check out the RN to BSN Nursing Workforce Sponsorship Program. This ACEN-accredited Online RN to BSN is also designed to align with the core competencies outlined by the Institute of Medicine. Thinking of graduate work? Check out the Online RN to MSN pathway. It allows you to apply credit earned at the BSN-level toward your MSN.
Learn More About Clarkson’s Accelerated RN to BSN
EAST TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY | JOHNSON CITY, TN
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 32
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public Research University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $11,776 (In-State) | $15,228 (Out-of-State)
How Fast is ETSU’s Online RN to BSN?
ETSU’s Online RN to BSN is available in a full-time schedule (2 semesters) or part-time schedule (3 or 5 semesters). Full-time students take 4 courses in the first semester and 5 courses in the second semester, including an RN Practicum. Out-of-state students may be required to complete any clinical hours in a Tennessee institution or agency, but ETSU will allow current RNs to avoid the clinical part of the final practicum by successfully completing an RN-BSN Essentials checklist.
Prerequisites are discussed in Admissions Criteria—ETSU would like to see Anatomy and Physiology I and II (with labs), Intro to Microbiology (with lab), and Probability and Statistics. In addition, transfer students are responsible for making sure General Education courses taken at other institutions are equivalent to ETSU General Education courses.
Why Choose ETSU’s Online RN to BSN?
NCLEX pass rates at ETSU’s College of Nursing can be hit or miss, but the College has achieved national rankings for its MSN and it offers a number of nursing scholarships. If you’re interested in rural healthcare, ETSU is worth a look. The College is part of the ETSU Academic Health Sciences Center and it runs a number of Nurse Managed Health Centers in the East Tennessee area.
Learn More About ETSU’s Online RN to BSN
UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS MEDICAL BRANCH | GALVESTON, TX
Program Length
- Program: Online RN-BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public Academic Health Science Center
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: Online with 1 Campus Orientation
- Estimated Total Cost: $12,083 (In-State) | $24,637 (Out-of-State)
How Fast is UTMB’s Online RN to BSN?
UTMB’s super-quick Online RN-BSN is designed for efficiency. On a full-time basis, you’ll take 6 courses in the fall semester and 4 courses in the spring semester. Each semester covers 15 credits. Almost all of the coursework is online, with the exception of a 2-day, on-campus orientation. During the spring, you’ll also be implementing projects in your own healthcare setting. Keep in mind that this 8-month RN-BSN operates on a fixed schedule—students are always admitted in the fall and finish in the spring.
Admission requirements are reasonable and RNs receive 60 semester hours for their ADN or diploma and up to 30 semester hours in advanced credits (i.e. block credits) for previous nursing courses. Apply between September 15th and March 15th for the Priority Deadline.
Why Choose UTMB’s Online RN to BSN?
Fast, practical, and affordable for Texas residents—there’s a lot to love about UTMB’s Online RN-BSN. It comes from a School of Nursing with superb NCLEX pass rates and graduate employment rates, a reputation for student diversity, and a good track record with veterans. Better yet, the School is affiliated with a public academic health science center and 4 on-site hospitals. These are just a few of the reasons why UTMB also appears in our Best Online RN to BSN Rankings.
Learn More About UTMB’s Accelerated RN to BSN
LINCOLN MEMORIAL UNIVERSITY | HARROGATE, TN
Program Length
- Program: Online RN-BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 29
- Total Credits Required: 122
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Private Liberal Arts University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online or Hybrid
- Estimated Total Cost: $12,180
How Fast is LMU’s Online RN to BSN?
With a full-time plan of study, LMU’s Online RN-BSN can be completed in 2 semesters: 5 courses in the first semester and 5 courses in the second semester. This program is available online, but some seat courses are also offered at three LMU locations: Main Campus (Harrogate), Cedar Bluff (Knoxville), and Tampa (Florida).
General Education (GE) requirements are listed on the Online RN-BSN homepage. You’ll need to have 49 credits, including Statistics, but some GE courses can be completed during the RN-BSN. Students who hold a current RN license can receive up to 31 upper-level nursing credit hours for proficiency validated by licensure.
Why Choose LMU’s Online RN to BSN?
The ACEN-accredited Caylor School of Nursing has been running the RN-BSN program since 1987, so it has had plenty of time to perfect the curriculum. In addition to community health courses (e.g. Promotion of Adaptation in the Elderly), this degree includes 300-level coursework in Pharmacology & Pathophysiology and a Senior Nursing Seminar for RNs.
Learn More About LMU’s Accelerated RN to BSN
ABILENE CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY | ABILENE, TX
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 8 Months
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 28
- Total Credits Required: 128
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Private Christian University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $12,260 incl. Resource Fees
How Fast is ACU’s Online RN to BSN?
ACU’s Online RN to BSN launched in 2021, so it’s just getting started. Full-time students with all of their prerequisites in hand can finish in 8 months. The 28-credit program consists of 10 courses, including practicums in Leadership & Management and Community & Populations Health. Each course is 7 weeks in length.
Prerequisites are listed in the Catalog under the “Post-Licensure BSN.” Keep in mind that NURO 380: Nursing Research for Evidence-Based Practice is part of the RN to BSN curriculum. RNs with appropriate work experience and an active & unencumbered RN license will be granted 32 hours of nursing course credits.
Why Choose ACU’s Online RN to BSN?
Anyone looking for a faith-based program might wish to consider ACU—the program is led by Christian faculty. The CCNE-accredited School of Nursing doesn’t often feature in national rankings, but it offers a DNP and Online BSN to DNP for nurses who want to advance their training. If you’re interested, be sure to check out the Online Scholarships section. ACU offers discounts to corporate partners & military and a 4th Course Free Scholarship.
Learn More About ACU’s Accelerated RN to BSN
GEORGE MASON UNIVERSITY | FAIRFAX, VA
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public Research University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $13,116 (In-State) | $37,296 (Out-of-State)
How Fast is GMU’s Online RN to BSN?
GMU states that full-time students can get through the Online RN to BSN in 2 semesters (e.g. 5 courses per semester). Part-time options are also available. Most RN to BSN classes are 7 weeks long; standard semesters at GMU are 15 weeks long. Coursework is 100% online, but home-based practicums may be included—check with the program coordinator. Admission to the RN to BSN is twice a year (fall or spring).
Prerequisites are spelled out in the University Catalog. You’ll need to have 18 credits of nursing prerequisites and 42 credits of Mason Core & elective courses completed before you begin the program. GMU will also award you 33 “credits by exam” when you successfully pass NURS 336: Concepts in Professional Nursing as a Discipline.
Why Choose GMU’s Online RN to BSN?
Reputation is a big factor here—GMU’s School of Nursing is known for quality. It runs the largest BSN program in Virginia and usually achieves respectable national rankings for its MSN and DNP programs (e.g. top 50). We were particularly impressed with the glowing reviews of GMU’s nursing programs on message boards and independent sites. Students say coursework is rigorous, professors are knowledgeable & open, and classes are diverse. Keep in mind, too, that the school has tight connections to Mason and Partner (MAP) Clinics and Northern Virginia hospitals.
Learn More About GMU’s Accelerated RN to BSN
UNIVERSITY OF HAWAI’I AT MANOA | HONOLULU, HI
Program Length
- Program: Online ADN to BS
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public Research University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Check with RN to BSN Program Coordinator
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $14,130
How Fast is UHM’s Online RN to BSN?
At a fast clip, UH Mānoa’s 100% Online ADN to BS can be finished off in 2 semesters. You will take 4 courses in the first semester, including a Population Health Nursing Lab/Practicum, and 4 courses in the second semester, including a Complex Nursing & Leadership Lab/Practicum. Practicums can be completed in your local community. Admission is in January or August.
Check the Curriculum section for info on General Education (GE) requirements & prerequisites. UH Mānoa is looking for 31 GE credits and 59 credits from an Associate Degree in Nursing or diploma. Experiential Learning Portfolio credits are also available for a couple of BSN-level courses.
Why Choose UHM’s Online RN to BSN?
UH Mānoa’s School of Nursing & Dental Hygiene is a great pick for RNs who are interested in Pacific healthcare and diverse populations. It oversees a UH Translational Health Science Simulation Center, a Global Health Program, and an academic partnership with the VA Pacific Islands Health Care System. Faculty are involved in research work on big data, disaster nursing, and maternal health. And the Online ADN to BS includes credits in unique areas like Genetics & Genomics and Cultural Aspects of Health Management. The only significant downside is cost—UH Mānoa is expensive.
Learn More About UHM’s Accelerated RN to BSN
SAINT LOUIS UNIVERSITY | ST. LOUIS, MO
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Private Jesuit University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes—View Accepted States
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $14,550 + Fees
How Fast is SLU’s Online RN to BSN?
SLU’s Online RN to BSN is available in a full-time, 2-semester plan of study or a part-time, 4-semester format. View the Roadmap to plan your schedule. Full-time students take 4 courses in the fall semester (including a course in Leadership and Management for RNs) and 4 courses in the spring semester (including a 16-week Community Project for RNs).
To reach 120 credits, you’ll receive 38 automatic credits for passing the NCLEX exam or through prior experience; complete or transfer 55 credits of core requirements; and complete 27 credits of nursing coursework. Bear in mind that all RN to BSN students must complete at least 30 of their final 36 BSN credits at SLU.
Why Choose SLU’s Online RN to BSN?
Connections! SLU’s Valentine School of Nursing is located in the SLU Medical Center, within easy walking distance of SSM hospitals. Student reviewers are effusive about the expertise & support of instructors, the rigor of programs, and employment options for graduates. SLU is a Private Jesuit university, so tuition rates can be pricey. However, it offers nursing scholarships, deferred payment for tuition reimbursement, and tuition discounts for corporate partners, including BJC Healthcare and SSM Health.
Learn More About SLU’s Online RN to BSN
DAEMEN COLLEGE | AMHERST, NY
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BS
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2 Semesters
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 36
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Private College
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online or Hybrid
- Estimated Total Cost: $16,095 w/ Nursing RN-BS Tuition Grant: 50%
How Fast is Daemen’s Online RN to BSN?
Daemen’s Online RN to BS is available in a full-time, 2-semester plan of study or part-time, 4-semester format. The full-time schedule will involve 5 courses/18 credits in the first semester, including a course in Holistic Perspectives, and 4 courses/18 credits in the second semester.
Prerequisites are listed in the Undergraduate Catalog. All candidates must have completed at least 60 credit hours of liberal arts & sciences to be considered. Statistics is required.
Why Choose Daemen’s Online RN to BSN?
If you’re eligible for the Nursing RN-BS Tuition Grant, the price for Daemen’s program is manageable. It comes from an ACEN-accredited Department of Nursing with a range of graduate programs & certificates and an intimate feel (e.g. small class sizes and personable instructors). Plus you can take up to 6 credits of MSN-level courses at the undergraduate rate during your BS.
Learn More About Daemen’s Accelerated RN to BSN
UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT ARLINGTON | ARLINGTON, TX
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 9-10 Months
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 35
- Total Credits Required: 121
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public Research University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes—Check State Authorization
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $8,995
How Fast is UTA’s Online RN to BSN?
On a turbo-charged schedule, UTA’s Online RN to BSN can be finished in 9 months. Nursing courses are 5 weeks long; the capstone is 7 weeks; and most students take one course at a time. RNs are allowed to take two nursing courses at the same time (excluding NURS 3345 and NURS 4685), but UTA doesn’t usually recommend it. And you can’t exceed the maximum credit hour limit (19 hours in fall/spring and 14 hours in summer).
Prerequisites at UTA are known as General Courses. A course in Technical Writing is required—you may need to add this onto your schedule if you haven’t taken an equivalent undergraduate class. UTA has a few more credits than some other Online RN to BSN programs, but it does offer multiple start dates per year.
Why Choose UTA’s Online RN to BSN?
UTA is a heavy-hitter. The College of Nursing and Health Innovation (CONHI) produces an enormous number of BSN graduates every year. It’s an NLN Center of Excellence. And it keeps RN to BSN prices low—tuition rates are the same for in-state and out-of-state students. If you want to dig deeper into the nuts & bolts, nursing message boards have plenty of threads on UTA’s program. Just be sure to check the State Authorization Program Map before you apply (UTA has a few state exceptions).
Learn More About UTA’s Accelerated RN to BSN
ROSEMAN UNIVERSITY OF HEALTH SCIENCES | HENDERSON, NV
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 9 Months
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 28
- Total Credits Required: 126
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Private Healthcare University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $9,000
How Fast is Roseman’s Online RN to BSN?
Roseman’s Online RN to BSN is structured in a “Block” format. You’ll take one class at a time before proceeding to the next one. The entire degree consist of 8 blocks/courses and can be finished in 9 months. You’ll start with a course in Transition to Professional Nursing and finish with credits in Community Health Nursing and the capstone.
Have a look at the Admissions Requirements & Prerequisites section for details on previous coursework. Roseman wants to see 49 credits in a number of subjects, including sciences, humanities, electives, and the US Constitution. It will grant RNs 49 credits for successful completion of the NCLEX and their RN license.
Why Choose Roseman’s Online RN to BSN?
Roseman has created an RN to BSN that’s affordable, straightforward, and collaborative—students are assigned to groups for specific learning activities. The CCNE-accredited College of Nursing is not a high-achiever, but NCLEX pass rates & program completion rates are respectable and reviews are strong. Alumni praise the “block” learning approach, the instructors, and the university’s emphasis on competency-based education.
Learn More About Roseman’s Accelerated RN to BSN
OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY | STILLWATER, OK
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 9 Months
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 32
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public Research University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $9,243 (In-State) | $24,764 (Out-of-State)
How Fast is OSU’s Online RN to BSN?
Full-time students in OSU’s 100% Online RN to BSN take 2-3 courses every 8 weeks and can expect to finish the program in 2-3 semesters. New cohorts begin each semester (fall, spring and summer). The Community and Leadership/Management courses have clinical components, but these practicums can be completed in your local community.
Prerequisites are outlined in the Admissions section. OSU is looking for 41 General Education credits, designated diversity & international dimension credits, and 17 College of Education and Human Sciences requirements. 30 credits will be awarded through a portfolio review of your accredited associate degree or diploma in nursing.
Why Choose OSU’s Online RN to BSN?
OSU’s CCNE-accredited program is a good deal for Oklahoma RNs and expensive for out-of-state residents. However, all full-time students with a 3.25 GPA are eligible to receive a Transfer Scholarship. And active-duty military may qualify for the resident tuition rate.
Learn More About OSU’s Accelerated RN to BSN
JACKSONVILLE UNIVERSITY | JACKSONVILLE, FL
Program Length
- Program: Online RN-BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 9 Months
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Private Liberal Arts University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online or Hybrid
- Estimated Total Cost: $9,450 (In-State) | $12,000 (Out-of-State)
How Fast is JU’s Online RN to BSN?
On a full-time schedule, you can blaze through JU’s Online RN-BSN in 9 months; part-time study and Cohort-Based options are also available. Online RN to BSN courses are 8 weeks long, with no mandatory log-in times. The curriculum includes practice projects, but these practicums can be completed in your local area. Keep in mind that coursework includes Health Assessment and Pathophysiology.
JU will allow you to transfer up to 60 core credits from your previous degree; it will also grant you 30 credit hours for your RN license. If you need to make up additional credit hours, you may be able to take 300-level nursing electives. Some of these courses are quite interesting (e.g. Global Health Promotion).
Why Choose JU’s Online RN to BSN?
Stellar independent reviews! That’s one thing that stands out about the Keigwin School of Nursing (a.k.a. JUSON). Online BSN graduates love the tough—but fair—coursework, the ease of distance learning, the helpful advisors, the supportive atmosphere, and the excellent instructors. Despite being a private university, JU has remarkably affordable tuition rates. We especially like the fact that it offers sizeable discounts to active duty military (e.g. U.S. military nurses stationed overseas). If you’re interested in graduate work down the line, you might even want to consider JU’s BSN to DNP tracks in FNP or leadership.
Learn More About JU’s Accelerated RN to BSN
NORFOLK STATE UNIVERSITY | NORFOLK, VA
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 9 Months
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 33
- Total Credits Required: 121
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public Historically Black University (HBCU)
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Only Compact License
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $9,622 (In-State) | $21,550 + Fees (Out-of-State)
How Fast is NSU’s Online RN to BSN?
On a full-time schedule, NSU’s 100% Online RN to BSN can be completed in 9 months/2 semesters. Over the course of 4 terms, you’ll take 2-3 courses per term. There is one clinical course (i.e. practicum) that requires 90 contact hours in your local community. Full-time students often tackle it in the third term.
A full list of General Education (GE) requirements can be downloaded on the Online RN to BSN Homepage. There are 52 GE credits in total. All prerequisites—including Chemistry and Statistics—must be completed before the start of the Online RN to BSN. In addition, 36 credits will be awarded for your lower-level experiences.
Why Choose NSU’s Online RN to BSN?
NSU’s Department of Nursing and Allied Health is ACEN-accredited, which means it posts annual achievement data on its website. The Department achieves sturdy RN-BSN Completion Rates (e.g. 100%). It’s clinically affiliated with a number of local VA hospitals (e.g. Chesapeake Regional Medical Center, Bon Secours Health System, and Hampton VA Medical Center). And it offers RN-BSN courses in unique topics (e.g. Multiculturalism Bioethics).
Learn More About NSU’s Accelerated RN to BSN
UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA HEALTH SCIENCES CENTER | OKLAHOMA CITY, OK
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 9 Months
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public Academic Health Science Center
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Only Multi-State Compact License w/ OK Practice
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $11,428 (In-State Only)
How Fast is OUHSC’s Online RN to BSN?
OUHSC’s clinically-focused Online RN to BSN is available in three curriculum schedules, which are organized around the university’s fall & spring semester calendar:
- Full-time 2-semester program with a fall start (9 months): 15 credits/4 courses in the first semester; 15 credits/5 courses in the second semester
- Part-time/full-time 3-semester program with a spring start (1.5 years)
- Part-time 4-semester program with a fall start (2 years)
On a full-time schedule, you’d be taking 15 credit hours of upper division courses per semester—the estimated weekly time commitment is 2-3 hours per credit hour per week.
The Admissions & Prerequisites has info on the transfer process. In addition, OUHSC will grant you 30 credits of nursing advanced standing hours to bring the total of transfer credits up to 90.
Why Choose OUHSC’s Online RN to BSN?
It’s a solid pick for Oklahomans—RN to BSN candidates must hold a valid/current Oklahoma license or Multi-State Compact license allowing clinical practice in OK. If you opt for OUHSC, you’ll be choosing a College of Nursing with the state’s largest nursing program, a good track record in geriatric nursing & care management, and established ties to the OU Medical Center.
Learn More About OUHSC’s Accelerated RN to BSN
SAINT JOSEPH’S COLLEGE OF MAINE | STANDISH, ME
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 9 Months
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Private Catholic College
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes—View Acceptable States
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $12,096
How Fast is SJC’s Online RN to BSN?
If all general education requirements are met, SJC’s Online RN to BSN can be dusted off in 9 months. The core of the degree is 27 credits in 400-level nursing courses, but you must earn at least 30 credits at SJC in order to graduate (e.g. additional 3-credit elective). The program contains a number of intensives and a capstone project.
The Course Catalog has a full rundown of prerequisites—you’ll see a list of 39 General Education requirements and 54 credits in RN-Transfer credits & college-level electives. If you need to make up extra credits, you can receive one free general education course for every three nursing courses you complete.
Why Choose SJC’s Online RN to BSN?
SJC is a small Catholic liberal arts college in rural Maine, so its Department of Nursing has an intimate feel. NCLEX pass rates are typically strong and Online MSN pathways are available. SJC also has transfer agreements with a number of local community colleges.
Learn More About SJC’s Accelerated RN to BSN
D’YOUVILLE COLLEGE | BUFFALO, NY
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 9 Months
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 122
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Private University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: No
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $12,330 incl. Fees (In-State Only)
How Fast is D’Youville’s Online RN to BSN?
If you commit to a full-time schedule, you can finish D’Youville’s Online RN to BSN in 9 months. There are 7 mandatory courses, which total 22 credits, but you must complete 30 credits at D’Youville to meet NYS residency requirements. Most courses are 8 weeks in length and there are up to 6 start dates per year.
D’Youville will allow you to transfer up to 92 credits into the degree. Keep in mind that new graduates who are not yet licensed must pass the NCLEX-RN during their first semester.
Why Choose D’Youville’s Online RN to BSN?
D’Youville’s program is only open to NY or Ontario, Canada residents, so out-of-staters will need to look elsewhere. Undergraduate programs at the CCNE-accredited Patricia H. Garman School of Nursing earn strong reviews on independent websites, but NCLEX pass rates are weak and tuition is expensive. Talk to recent alumni for a sense of their experiences.
Learn More About D’Youville’s Accelerated RN to BSN
COLORADO TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY | COLORADO SPRINGS, CO
Program Length
- Program: Online RN-BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 9 Months
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 48 Quarter Credits
- Total Credits Required: 180 Quarter Credits
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: For-Profit University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes (with Exceptions)
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $12,920 (incl. Tech Fees)
How Fast is CTU’s Online RN to BSN?
CTU states that students can finish its Online RN-BSN in as little as 9 months/3 academic terms. Each term is divided into two sessions of 5.5 weeks. So you might end up taking 2 courses per session and 4 courses per term (12 courses/48 credits in total). Clinical experiences take place in your home community. The 9-month estimate is for RNs who are transferring the maximum number of credits possible. If you have a diploma instead of an associate’s degree, and you need to make up General Education prerequisites (e.g. Ethics in Healthcare), your schedule will get longer.
See the Courses section for details on the RN-BSN curriculum and all necessary prerequisites. CTU accepts up to 90 quarter credits as transfer credit for your associate degree, diploma, or educational RN program. And it will grant you 28.5 quarter credits for your RN license. Additional credits may be awarded for professional specialty certifications and an experiential learning portfolio.
Why Choose CTU’s Online RN to BSN?
CTU joins the list of for-profit schools in our rankings. It’s regionally accredited and CCNE-accredited, but it doesn’t have an established brick & mortar reputation for nursing. Having said that, it has appeared in national rankings for Online MSN and Online Bachelor’s Programs, and it has achieved respectable employment rates (e.g. 91%). RN to BSN alumni on independent review sites say the RN-BSN is a good fit for students who are self-motivated and enjoy writing research papers. Be aware that the distance learning program is unavailable in a small number of states.
Learn More About CTU’s Accelerated RN to BSN
UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI | CINCINNATI, OH
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 9 Months
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 27
- Total Credits Required: 121
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public Research University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes (with Exceptions)
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $13,514 (In-State) | $13,874 (Out-of-State)
How Fast is UC’s Online RN to BSN?
UC’s Online RN to BSN is offered in an accelerated full-time option (9 months/2 semesters) or a more leisurely part-time schedule (3-5 semesters). If you commit to the 9-month track, you’ll pay a little more than $6,000 per semester. There are 9 courses in UC’s curriculum, equaling a total of 27 credits. So you might end up taking 5 courses in the first semester and 4 courses in the second semester, including the 14-week capstone experience. Courses are set up in 7-week blocks and practicums are included in the Community Health course and the capstone. There are 6 start dates per year.
UC has a fairly simple transfer & prerequisite policy—most General Education coursework can be transferred from your associate degree. But we did notice that Statistics is mandatory and must be completed before you begin NBSN 4062: Scientific Basis for Professional Nursing Practice.
Why Choose UC’s Online RN to BSN?
Great reviews for the Online RN to BSN program. Superb national rankings for Online MSN programs. Reasonable prices for out-of-state students. A College of Nursing that’s part of a major Academic Health Center. These are a few reasons why UC should be on your shortlist. Most importantly, RN to BSN alumni have lovely things to say about the availability of instructors & professors, the challenging coursework, and the convenient format. Just check the Admissions page before you apply—UC is unable to accept Online RN to BSN students from a small number of states.
Learn More About UC’s Accelerated RN to BSN
HOUSTON BAPTIST UNIVERSITY | HOUSTON, TX
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: ~9 Months (Competency-Based)
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Private Baptist University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $14,150 (incl. Online Student Fees)
How Fast is HBU’s Online RN to BSN?
HBU states that its 100% Online RN to BSN can be completed in as little as 9 months. HBU uses a Competency-based Education (CBE) model and courses are self-paced, so you may be able to finish this degree more quickly—check with the RN to BSN program coordinator. Each term is 8 weeks in length.
General Education (GE) requirements are listed in the University Catalog. HBU is a Christian university, so at least one Religion course is required (e.g. Introduction to Bible and Theology).
Why Choose HBU’s Online RN to BSN?
Flexibility. HBU’s Competency-Based Educational (CBE) format means that you’ll be able to go at your own pace in courses. RN to BSN students receive weekly one-on-one support from instructors & student coaches and there are no lectures. The ACEN-accredited School of Nursing and Allied Health is affiliated with the Texas Medical Center and it’s well-known in the Houston area.
Learn More About HBU’s Accelerated RN to BSN
FAYETTEVILLE STATE UNIVERSITY | FAYETTEVILLE, NC
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 2.5 Semesters/10 Months
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 32
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public Historically Black University (HBCU)
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $5,435 (In-State) | $11,256 (Out-of-State)
How Fast is FSU’s Online RN to BSN?
On a full-time plan, you can finish FSU’s 100% Online RN to BSN in 2.5 semesters/10 months. A part-time plan of study would take 5 semesters. There are 10 courses—full-time students take 2 courses in an 8-week block (e.g. 4 courses per semester). The program starts in spring or fall.
Have a look at the Undergraduate Catalog for details on General Education requirements and prerequisites. You can begin the RN-BSN program as long as you have no more than 4 non-nursing courses to complete, but you must be an RN with an active, unencumbered license in order to start nursing courses.
Why Choose FSU’s Online RN to BSN?
FSU is a highly affordable option for North Carolina residents; out-of-state students may wish to consider other oportunities. The School of Nursing can’t compete with other UNC-affiliated schools in rankings and NCLEX pass rates are decidedly lackluster, but it’s an HBCU school with diverse faculty.
Learn More About FSU’s Accelerated RN to BSN
SOUTHWESTERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY | KEENE, TX
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 10 Months
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 28
- Total Credits Required: 121
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Private Adventist/Christian University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $7,800
How Fast is SWAU’s Online RN to BSN?
On a full-time schedule, SWAU’s 100% Online RN to BSN can be finished in 10 months; part-time schedules are available. You can start this program in the fall, spring, or summer semester—courses are run on 8-week modules. There will be a service-oriented community project/clinical experience during the course in Population Health. And the final RN-BS Baccalaureate Experience involves a portfolio.
The Undergraduate Bulletin contains a full list of prerequisites. SWAU is a private Adventist university, so bear in mind that you will need to have a couple of cognate courses in Religion, including Christian Ethics and World Religions.
Why Choose SWAU’s Online RN to BSN?
If you’re interested in a Christian program, SWAU’s Online RN to BSN is a viable choice. The CCNE-accredited Department of Nursing isn’t in the same league as some of the other Texas schools in these rankings (e.g. UTHealth, TTUHSC, etc.), but tuition prices are remarkably affordable. The portfolio should also come in handy when you’re applying for promotion or a new position.
Learn More About SWAU’s Accelerated RN to BSN
WILLIAM PATERSON UNIVERSITY | WAYNE, NJ
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 10 Months
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $8,250
How Fast is WP’s Online RN to BSN?
WP’s Online RN to BSN can be finished in 10 months. Each course lasts 7 weeks, so you’d commit to 2 courses every 2 months. The program consists of 9 core courses/27 credits and 1 mandatory elective/3 credits. For the elective, you can choose a 500-level or 600-level course (e.g. Advanced Pharmacology) and get a jump-start on graduate studies.
Prerequisites are listed in the WP Academic Catalog. There are requirements in world languages, technology, writing, will power, and math. Students must earn a C or better in the prerequisite courses prior to starting the upper division nursing courses.
Why Choose WP’s Online RN to BSN?
Affordability is a good start—WP offers the same low tuition rate to in-state & out-of-state students. The CCNE-accredited Department of Nursing is not a big player, but it has ties to many local healthcare systems, including St. Joseph’s Health, Hackensack Meridian Health, RWJ Barnabas Health, and more. It has also developed a Hybrid BSN to DNP.
Learn More About WPU’s Accelerated RN to BSN
YOUNGSTOWN STATE UNIVERSITY | YOUNGSTOWN, OH
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 10 Months
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 28
- Total Credits Required: 122
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $8,820 (In-State) | $8,960 (Out-of-State)
How Fast is YSU’s Online RN to BSN?
YSU states that its Online RN to BSN can be finished in as few as 10 months. The program contains 9 mandatory courses, including a capstone; each course is 7 weeks in length. The program comes with multiple start dates throughout the year—you can begin in the spring, summer, or fall.
At the time of your admission, 65 credit hours of General Education (GE) and nursing courses will be automatically accepted from your ADN/ASN program, as well as 10 hours of experiential credit for unencumbered RN licensure. An additional 19 hours of GE credits are required as prerequisites (e.g. Statistics).
Why Choose YSU’s Online RN to BSN?
YSU’s Centofanti School of Nursing isn’t one of the top-ranked schools in Ohio, but it offers a number of graduate programs—including one in Nurse Anesthesia—and 95% of its BSN graduates are employed in their field within 6 months of graduation. The Centofanti Charitable Foundation has also established a Centofanti Center of Health and Welfare for Vulnerable Populations and pledged $1 million to support the Nursing school and to establish a scholarship for minority nursing students.
Learn More About YSU’s Online RN to BSN
MCNEESE STATE UNIVERSITY | LAKE CHARLES, LA
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 10 Months
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $9,000
How Fast is MSU’s Online RN to BSN?
MSU’s Online RN to BSN is set-up on a 10-month schedule, with 6 separate start dates every year. Accelerated classes are 7 weeks long, with a 1-week break between each course. So you might end up taking 2 courses every 2 months (10 courses = 30 credit hours). You’ll be expected to tackle a practicum for your Community Health Nursing course and a Leadership & Management Clinical Capstone.
10 months is a ballpark number. If you don’t have the proper prerequisites or transfer courses, you may need to take additional General Education courses or sit for CLEP exams. The Department of Nursing has a Transfer Checklist under the Admissions section.
Why Choose MSU’s Online RN to BSN?
MSU’s College of Nursing & Health Professions is a solid choice. BSN graduates achieve outstanding NCLEX pass rates (e.g. 98%+). Reviews from former students are positive, with praise for the challenging curriculum & fraternal atmosphere. Faculty have useful credentials (e.g. Certified Nurse Educator). And the program is pretty darn cheap! It’s even cheaper if you qualify for the Preferred Tuition Rate for RNs from partner healthcare agencies. This rate also applies to spouses and dependents, members of the United States Military, and McNeese & SOWELA nursing associate degree graduates.
Learn More About MSU’s Accelerated RN to BSN
SOUTHERN UTAH UNIVERSITY | CEDAR CITY, UT
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 10 Months
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $9,000
How Fast is SUU’s Online RN to BSN?
If you put the pedal to the metal, you can finish SUU’s 100% Online RN to BSN in 10 months. But you can also choose a part-time schedule. Courses are 7 weeks long and there are 6 start dates per year. View the Calendar to learn about application deadlines, tuition deadlines, and start & finish dates.
Prerequisites and transfer policies are listed under the Courses tab. If you don’t have 4 key General Education prerequisites (e.g. Statistical Reasoning), you’ll need to complete them at some point. During the RN to BSN, SUU will also award you 20 credits for your NCLEX exam and 10 credits via Prior Learning Assessment (PLA).
Why Choose SUU’s Online RN to BSN?
SUU’s Department of Nursing has come up with a straightforward program. The tuition is pay-by-the course, with all fees included. The curriculum covers AACN Baccalaureate Essentials. And 3 courses include relevant fieldwork (e.g. Community Health, Nursing for Wellness in Older Adults, and Leadership & Management). It may not be as well-known as Brigham Young University and WGU, but it will certainly help you get the job done!
Learn More About SUU’s Accelerated RN to BSN
UNIVERSITY OF MAINE AT FORT KENT | FORT KENT, ME
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 10 Months
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes—Check State Authorization
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $9,000
How Fast is UMFK’s Online RN to BSN?
UMFK’s Online RN to BSN can be done & dusted in 10 months on a full-time schedule; part-time schedules are also available. Courses are 7 weeks long and there are 6 start dates each year. Coursework is 100% online, but the final course in Integrated Nursing Practice (i.e. the capstone) contains fieldwork in community-based nursing and a portfolio. See the Calendar tab for sample start times & important deadlines.
Prerequisites are laid out in full under the Courses tab. 69 credits will be granted to you for core nursing competencies & General Education courses. You’ll need 21 more credits in General Education to get your transfer total up to 90 (e.g. Statistics, English Composition, etc.). Electives are available on an as-needed basis.
Why Choose UMFK’s Online RN to BSN?
UMFK is a rural school, so it doesn’t carry the same caché as a big research university. But it’s fairly well-known in the state of Maine and faculty within the Department of Nursing train plenty of BSN graduates. Within the Online RN to BSN, you’ll also discover some intriguing courses, including credits in Health Care Ethics & the Law. One thing to note—UMFK has a number of state exceptions for this distance learning program. View the list of accepted states under Admissions Requirements.
Learn More About UMFK’s Accelerated RN to BSN
NORTHEASTERN STATE UNIVERSITY | TALEQUAH, OK
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 10 Months
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $9,165 (In-State) | $9,915 (Out-of-State)
How Fast is NSU’s Online RN to BSN?
10 Months. That’s the fastest time-frame for NSU’s ACEN-accredited Online RN to BSN. During those months, you’ll tackle 9 courses in a fairly comprehensive curriculum. Each course is 7 weeks long. If you wish to study part-time, you may end up with a schedule of 4-6 semesters (2 academic years). Two courses contain 64 hours of field experiences: Community Health and Professional Nursing Synthesis. The program has 6 start dates each year.
Transfers & prerequisites fall under the title of co-requisites. If you don’t have certain General Education credits, you’re allowed to take them at the same time as your RN to BSN courses. Statistics is required.
Why Choose NSU’s Online RN to BSN?
Pricing for one! Tuition rates for the RN to BSN are reasonable. Diversity for another. NSU has the largest student population of American Indians of any public U.S. university; these students hail from ~30 different nations. The Department of Health Professions is not large, but its ACEN-accredited nursing programs get great student reviews on independent websites, with particular praise being given to the instructors.
Learn More About NSU’s Accelerated RN to BSN
RADFORD UNIVERSITY | RADFORD, VA
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 10 Months
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $9,990
How Fast is Radford’s Online RN to BSN?
Radford’s Online RN to BSN is organized on a 10 course/10 month schedule. Courses are 7 weeks in length (e.g. 2 courses per month) and there are 6 start dates per year. In addition to the usual RN to BSN credits, the curriculum includes a Nursing Leadership and Management course where you can shadow a nurse leader and a final clinical & capstone.
To meet Radford’s General Education requirements, students must have at least 56 approved transfer credit hours and at least one approved course that maps to required areas in the REAL Curriculum. The Undergraduate Catalog has more details on REAL and transfer policies.
Why Choose Radford’s Online RN to BSN?
Radford’s School of Nursing is not as powerful as some of the other Virginia players in our rankings (e.g. George Mason), but its main campus has excellent NCLEX pass rates and often scores in the top 150 of U.S. News rankings for graduate programs. Be sure to ask if you will be eligible for any of Radford’s Foundation Scholarships in nursing.
Learn More About Radford’s Accelerated RN to BSN
NORTHERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY | HIGHLAND HEIGHTS, KY
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 10 Months
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $10,380
How Fast is NKU’s Online RN to BSN?
NKU promises that motivated, full-time students can finish the Online RN to BSN in 10 months. Part-time study is also available. The curriculum contains 10 courses, including a Leadership Practicum that serves as a capstone. But courses are only 7 weeks long and the program has 6 start times per year. See the Calendar tab for admissions deadlines and sample start dates.
Prerequisites & transfer credits are listed under the Courses tab. You’ll need to have an assortment of General Education, Health Sciences, and Nursing credits in hand, but NKU will grant you 19 block credits for the NCLEX exam. If you don’t have certain prerequisites (e.g. Microbiology, Statistics, etc.), you’re allowed to take them as “co-requisites” alongside your RN to BSN coursework.
Why Choose NKU’s Online RN to BSN?
We like the fact that NKU is straightforward about pricing—all fees are included and tuition is the same for in-state and out-of-state students. Reviews of the online graduate programs at NKU’s School of Nursing are mixed, but NCLEX pass rates are good (e.g. 92%-96%) and NKU is well-known in the state. The School also makes a point of including 21st century coursework in the RN to BSN (e.g. Genetics and Health Informatics). This may be a bonus in your future line of work.
Learn More About NKU’s Accelerated RN to BSN
UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS GRANTHAM | LITTLE ROCK, AR
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 10 Months
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 39
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public Online University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $11,505
How Fast is UA Grantham’s Online RN to BSN?
UA Grantham’s Online RN to BSN is available in 2 formats—a standard option that takes 1+ years and an accelerated 10-month program. The accelerated program is tailored to RNs who have at least 2 years of clinical practice and a 3.0 GPA. You’ll take 6-9 credits per term for a total of 5 terms/39 credits (36 program credits + 3 statistics credits). You’ll find a sample schedule & details about clinicals in the Curriculum section.
The Curriculum section also contains details on prerequisites. UA Grantham will accept up to 51 credits for previous nursing coursework & General Education transferable credits from an accredited institution. RNs are granted 30 experiential credits for their nursing practice experience.
Why Choose UA Grantham’s Online RN to BSN?
UA Grantham’s College of Nursing is both ACEN- and CCNE-accredited. The College is a relatively new kid on the block—it first started offering degrees in 2010—but the university has a history of developing online programs for working students. Tuition discounts are available for military, veterans, first responders, civil servants & licensed or certified patient care workers.
Learn More About UA Grantham’s Accelerated RN to BSN
BETHEL UNIVERSITY | ST. PAUL, MN
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 10 Months
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 39
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Private Evangelical Christian University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online or Face-to-Face
- Estimated Total Cost: $11,700
How Fast is Bethel’s Online RN to BSN?
Bethel’s RN to BSN comes in two forms: 100% online or face-to-face with evening classes. Regardless of the format, you can finish in 10 months. The nursing curriculum contains 18 courses, but courses start every 6 weeks. So you’re going at a much faster pace than conventional programs. Practicums are included (e.g. Public Health Nursing) and the degree finishes with a Clinical Care Change Project. Bethel will also want you to take a 3-credit course in Examining Crucial Questions, which explores topics of Christian faith.
Prerequisites are laid out in the Admissions section. You’ll need at least 60 semester credit hours on your transcripts to apply. And you may need to complete a few additional requirements before starting class—talk to the program coordinator about your options.
Why Choose Bethel’s Online RN to BSN?
Bethel may be a good fit for faith-focused RNs. Nursing faculty teach their courses from a Christian perspective, emphasizing holistic practices (mind/body/spirit). If you’re interested in Nurse Midwifery, it’s also worth stating that Bethel has an excellent national ranking for their MSN program. Graduates often end up in places like St. Joseph’s Hospital, St. Paul Children’s Hospital, United Hospital, Regions Hospital, and more.
Learn More About Bethel’s Accelerated RN to BSN
SOUTH DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY | BROOKINGS, SD
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 10 Months
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public Research University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $12,390 (In-State) | $15,900 (Out-of-State)
How Fast is SDSU’s Online RN to BSN?
If you opt for a full-time plan of study, SDSU’s 100% Online RN to BSN can be finished off in 10 months (e.g. 12 credits every semester). When you’re looking at the core curriculum, keep in mind that you’ll need to tackle an additional 6 credits of electives to achieve the 30 credits required for program completion.
General Education requirements are laid out in the Academic Advising Guide Sheet within the Courses section. SDSU will accept up to 90 transfer credits. Of these 90 credits, 46 transfer credits will be awarded for Associate Degree completion.
Why Choose SDSU’s Online RN to BSN?
SDSU is a big deal in South Dakota. The College of Nursing (CON) produces around a third of newly licensed RNs in the state. It achieves excellent NCLEX & APRN pass rates. It runs a Rural Nurse Fellow Program for BSN-level nursing students. It plays host to the Native American Nursing Education Center (NANEC). And it offers a number of nursing scholarships.
Learn More About SDSU’s Accelerated RN to BSN
TARLETON STATE UNIVERSITY | STEPHENVILLE, TX
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 10 Months
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: No
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $12,708 (In-State Only)
How Fast is Tarleton’s Online RN to BSN?
Tarleton’s Online RN to BSN can be completed on a full-time basis (10 months) or part-time basis (18 months) starting in the spring, summer or fall. On the 10-month schedule, you’d take 2 courses every 8 weeks. Some of the courses will have clinicals/labs that involve experiential learning and a leadership practicum. The university also has a 6-month co-enrollment option with Tarrant Community College.
General Education prerequisites (56 credits) are listed in the section on RN to BSN Program Information. Tarleton will want to see a cumulative GPA of 2.5 on all your previous coursework. However, some GE courses can be taken concurrently with the RN to BSN. 34 credits will be awarded for your associate degree in nursing.
Why Choose Tarleton’s Online RN to BSN?
Texas RNs may want to take a look at Tarleton. Although the School of Nursing is not as famous as TTUHSC or University of Texas institutions, it’s strong enough to place in the top 200 of U.S. News rankings for Best Nursing Schools. Independent reviews of the nursing program are generally positive, but NCLEX pass rates are middling. Ask the RN to BSN program coordinator if you qualify for any Foundation Scholarships in nursing.
Learn More About Tarleton’s Accelerated RN to BSN
CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY | MOUNT PLEASANT, MI
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 10 Months
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Public Research University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $13,500
How Fast is CMU’s Online RN to BSN?
The pace of CMU’s Online RN to BSN is up to you. Each semester is broken into two 8-week segments: Session I and Session II. Students who are bringing in the maximum number of transfer credits can complete the program in 2.5 semesters/5 sessions/10 months. You’ll tackle 7 nursing core courses, including a final capstone, and 2 nursing electives. CMU admits students twice a year in the spring or fall.
The Program Requirements section has full details on prerequisites. Up to 90 credit hours can be transferred into the program. CMU will want to see 30-42 hours in General Education requirements and 3 hours in statistics. The university will also grant you 45 credit hours for your RN license; 10 of those hours will be credited when you successfully finish the RN to BSN.
Why Choose CMU’s Online RN to BSN?
CMU’s program is not particularly cheap, but sizeable tuition discounts are available for federal employees, State of Michigan employees, and military. You may also be eligible for Global Campus Scholarships. There is no designated School of Nursing—the RN to BSN is housed in the School of Rehabilitation and Medical Sciences—but the university has close ties to many local community colleges, including MidMichigan & its health affiliates.
Learn More About CMU’s Accelerated RN to BSN
VANGUARD UNIVERSITY | COSTA MESA, CA
Program Length
- Program: Online RN to BSN
- Fastest Time to Completion: 10 Months
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Private Christian University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: No
- Format: 100% Online or Hybrid
- Estimated Total Cost: $14,550 (In-State Only)
How Fast is Vanguard’s Online RN to BSN?
Vanguard’s Online RN to BSN can be finished in 10 months if you’re willing to commit to an accelerated plan of study (e.g. up to 4 courses per semester). A part-time plan would take ~2 years/5 semesters. Each course is 8-weeks long and there are 9 courses in total. Upon graduation, you’ll be eligible to apply for the Public Health Nurse (PHN) Certificate.
Prerequisites are listed in the Academic Catalog. Vanguard would like to see 40 units of General Education Requirements and 40 units of electives. The university will grant you 10 units for passing the NCLEX RN license exam. Dual enrollment is available for CA community college students.
Why Choose Vanguard’s Online RN to BSN?
Vanguard is a Christian university, so the Department of Nursing takes a faith-based approach to learning. Thanks to its OC location, it has clinical affiliations with a number of regional healthcare facilities, including St. Jude Medical Center, St. Joseph Hospital, Children’s Hospital of Orange County, and more. Vanguard’s RN to BSN is expensive and only for locals—you must have a California RN license in order to apply. However, a 10% Professional Colleague tuition discount is available.
Learn More About Vanguard’s Accelerated RN to BSN
ST. CATHERINE UNIVERSITY | SAINT PAUL, MN
Program Length
- Program: Online RN-BSN Degree Completion
- Fastest Time to Completion: 10-12 Months
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Private Catholic University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: No
- Format: 100% Online
- Estimated Total Cost: $15,000 (In-State Only)
How Fast is St. Kate’s Online RN to BSN?
If you’re a Minnesota RN with all of your prerequisites in hand, St. Kate’s 100% Online RN-BSN Degree Completion program can be polished off in 10 months. Any courses with practicum components (e.g. Population-Based Nursing Practice) will require additional weekday time in your local area. Public Health certification can be coordinated with the Nursing Department.
Prerequisites are listed in the Academic Catalog—you’ll need to have Statistics and Biomedical Ethics. The course in “The Reflective Woman” can be taken concurrently with the first RN to BSN nursing course. You can transfer up to 90 credits into this degree, so we’ve used 30 credits as our mandatory RN to BSN minimum.
Why Choose St. Kate’s Online RN to BSN?
In a word? Connections. St. Kate’s is a well-known name in Minnesota nursing circles. The Department of Nursing in the Henrietta Schmoll School of Health is affiliated with a large number of clinical sites and it offers all kinds of Corporate & Community Partnership Tuition Discounts. BSN programs are endorsed by the American Holistic Nurses Credentialing Corporation (AHNCC) and degree completion & pass rates are strong across the board.
Learn More About St. Kate’s Accelerated RN to BSN
REGIS UNIVERSITY | DENVER, CO
Program Length
- Program: Online RN-BSN Completion
- Fastest Time to Completion: 10 Months
- RN to BSN Credits Required: 30
- Total Credits Required: 120
Online RN to BSN Decision Points
- Type of Institution: Private Roman Catholic University
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: Yes
- Format: 100% Online or Synchronous Classroom
- Estimated Total Cost: $17,550
How Fast is Regis’s Online RN to BSN?
On a full-time schedule, Regis’s Online RN-BSN Completion program can be completed in as few as 10 months/5 terms. That would equate to 2 classes per 8-week term. However, you can slow it down by taking 1 class per term instead—a part-time format might take 20 months. At Regis, you have the option to take the program 100% online or as part of a web-based classroom in a synchronous format. Practicums will be completed in your local community.
Prerequisites are listed in the Academic Catalog. Regis accepts up to 90 transfer credits. In addition to statistics, you’ll be expected to complete 3 semester hours of philosophy and 6 semester hours of religious studies. In accordance with the provisions of the Colorado Articulation Model, 33 credit hours will be awarded for RN licensure.
Why Choose Regis’s Online RN to BSN?
Regis is a top nursing school in Colorado. The Loretto Heights School of Nursing is known for its excellent NCLEX pass rates, experienced faculty, and sturdy local reputation. Better yet, graduates of the BSN and MSN programs have lots of lovely things to say about the quality of instructors and online learning programs. Thinking about the price? You may be able to offset the cost with Regis’s scholarships & grants for adult undergraduates.
Learn More About Regis’s Accelerated RN to BSN
2023 Honorable Mentions
8 Months: Accreditation Pending
In our research on accelerated Online RN to BSN programs, we found a couple of schools that were still waiting to receive word on their initial bid for CCNE accreditation (Elizabethtown) or ACEN accreditation (Ambria). If you’re interested in 8-month RN to BSN programs that are 100% online, feel free to ask about their status.
- Ambria College of Nursing: Nursing School | Online RN to BSN | $8,000
- Elizabethtown College: Private College | Online RN to BSN | $18,200
11 Months/3 Semesters
We also discovered a few schools that offered 11-month Online RN to BSN programs. Technically, these programs are less than a year. However, you’ll still end up committing to 3 semesters of work. So we’ve assigned them an honorable mention.
- Rogers State University: Public University (OK) | OnlineRN2BSN | $9,686 | $17,748
- Saint Francis University: Private Catholic University | Online RN to BSN | $14,550
- Carlow University: Private Catholic University | Online RN to BSN | $14,850
- National University: Private University | Online RN to BSN | $16,650
- Francis Marion University: Public University (SC) | Online RN to BSN | $19,950
- Monroe College: For-Profit College | Online RN to BSN | $24,639
Fastest Rankings Methodology
To give you a realistic idea of your choices, we’ve ranked our list of Fastest Online RN to BSN programs according to two major criteria:
- Shortest Time to Completion: Self-paced programs come first in our list—students with a bucketload of time may be able to finish a self-paced Online RN to BSN in under 6 months. Then we divided the remaining programs into monthly categories (e.g. 2 Semesters, 9 Months, etc.). Traditional semesters are usually 15-16 weeks long (i.e. 4 months)—this equates to 8 months for 2 semesters.
- Estimated Total Cost: Whenever possible, we incorporated mandatory per credit fees into the cost of tuition. If a public university had different tuition rates for full-time and part-time study, we used the full-time tuition rate. If there were in-state and out-of-state tuition rates, we used the in-state tuition rate. For self-paced programs, we had a minimum cap of 8 months for the total price. That meant that Capella, which charges for 3-month sessions, ranked lower than ASU, which charges for 4-month sessions. (However, Capella will be cheaper on a 6-month schedule.)
Note: Because completion time is going to be key, we ignored the total number of Online RN to BSN credits in the program. For instance, if students can get 31 credits done in the same time as an RN to BSN with 28 credits—and the total cost for the 31-credit program is cheaper—then this option gets the higher rank.
How Long Are Online RN to BSN Programs?
Traditional Online RN to BSN programs usually take 1-2 years to complete. Schools create these programs for working RNs, so the schedule is structured around part-time study. For example, with 10 courses, you might take 2 courses per semester, and end up completing the degree in 1.5 years. Some schools will even allow you to take 1 course per semester, which stretches the timeline out even farther. RNs with full-time jobs and family responsibilities may find this format suits them best.
But the fastest Online RN to BSN programs can be finished in less than 1 year on a full-time schedule. Within that year, you’ll find a lot of variation, including programs that are:
- Self-Paced: These programs allow you to go as fast as possible. If you can finish in 4 months, then you’re allowed to do so. In the past, self-paced Online RN to BSNs have only been offered by for-profit universities, which don’t always look great on a résumé. But public universities are starting to get in on the game.
- 8 Months/2 Semesters: Traditional semesters are usually 15-16 weeks long (i.e. 4 months). This allows RN to BSN students in an 8-month program to divide their coursework over 2 semesters, with 4-5 courses per semester. A large number of universities offer this schedule.
- 9 Months: Some universities have longer semesters (e.g. 4.5 months) or use academic terms (e.g. 3 months per term). 9-month Online RN to BSN programs aren’t that different to 8-month programs, but they’re typically a little more expensive.
- 10 Months: Here’s where it gets interesting! 10-month Online RN to BSN programs are often built on exactly the same model: 30 credit hours, 10 courses, multiple start dates, and similar tuition prices. We kept seeing the this format over & over again. If you like the look of a 10-month program, choose the one that has the most relevant coursework.
- 11 Months: 11-month Online RN to BSN programs are rarer and usually have a quirky calendar (e.g. National University’s 4-week courses).
To fit all the necessary coursework into the year, most accelerated Online RN to BSN programs operate on a short course schedule (e.g. 6-8 weeks). You’ll still complete the same number of credits as a traditional, on-campus RN to BSN, but your work will be concentrated into a few hard-core months. For example, in one 16-week semester, you might take two 8-week courses in the first session of the semester and two or three 8-week courses in the second.
Using the Fastest Rankings to Make a Decision
Here are a few things to be aware of when you’re starting to put together your shortlist of speedy Online RN to BSN programs:
- Fastest Time to Completion: We’ve given you the “best-case” scenario on time. This is when you have all your prerequisites in hand, and you don’t need to take any extra General Education (GE) courses to satisfy the university’s transfer requirements. If you’re required to make up courses to meet the total credits for the BSN, your schedule may get longer (e.g. 3 semesters instead of 2) and the tuition price will get higher!
- Prerequisites & Transfers: We’ve highlighted links to prerequisites & transfer policies so you won’t be surprised by the fine print. Folks who are coming straight out of their associate degree or diploma may find that they have to make up more courses than RNs who have been in the field for a while. In some cases, you may be able to finish prerequisites at the same time as you’re taking RN to BSN courses—these are called “co-requisites.”
- Type of Institution: The type of institution can say something about a school’s reputation. For example, Schools of Nursing at public research universities or academic health science centers often have solid national rankings, good funding, and strong NCLEX pass rates. This isn’t a hard-and-fast rule—you should research each school on your shortlist. We should also note that any for-profit school that appeared in our rankings had to be a) regionally accredited; and b) CCNE-accredited. However, we recommend you talk to mentors and alumni before you choose one! They’re not always well-regarded in the workplace.
- Accepts Out-of-State RNs: California Schools of Nursing in public universities are often unwilling to accept RNs who don’t have a CA RN license (e.g. CSUF). But public universities in other states (e.g. Texas) are happy to consider RNs with a license from anywhere. When in doubt, ask the RN to BSN program coordinator to clarify the policy.
- Estimated Total Cost: It’s a ballpark figure! Universities love to tack on extra costs like technology fees or individual course fees. We’ve tried to include all mandatory fees, but we may have missed a few. If the tuition is not all-inclusive, ask the RN to BSN program coordinator for a sample budget, with a breakdown of tuition + fees. You deserve to know how much the total cost will be.
Can You Really Complete an Online RN to BSN in Under One Year?
Yes. But it’s going to be challenging!
- Full-Time Basis: Schools will expect you to commit to a full-time schedule. This often means 4-5 nursing courses per semester.
- Weekly Coursework: If you’re averaging 10 hours per course, per week, you may be tackling at least 20-30 hours of schoolwork every week.
- Practicums: Don’t forget, too, that some Online RN to BSN courses will include practicums with on-site fieldwork (e.g. Community Health Nursing project). These practicums may have a minimum time commitment (e.g. 60 hours).
This is why most schools advise RNs who are working full-time to consider part-time study schedules (e.g. 2-3 courses per semester).
Making a Quick Online RN to BSN Work for You
However, if you’re ready for the challenge of a fast Online RN to BSN, here are few extra tips to make life easier:
- Make Sure It’s Available in Your State: Because of distance learning regulations, many Online RN to BSN programs have rules about which RNs they can/can’t accept. The university should have a page on State Authorization (sometimes with a map of where online programs are available). But we always recommend you double-check.
- Try Before You Buy: Ask the Online RN to BSN program coordinator if you can monitor a class or take a course tour. Talk to recent alumni about their experiences and chat about how they managed their time.
- Ask for a Sample Calendar: Some universities are kind enough to provide these on the program website. But you can always request one if you don’t see it listed.
- Schedule Wisely: Think about which Online RN to BSN courses you’ll take concurrently (i.e. at the same time). Because RN to BSN programs are packed with writing, research, and group work, you may not want to pair heavy research courses or courses with practicums together.
- Select the Right Start Date: You’ll often be able to choose from multiple start dates in the year; some Online RN to BSN programs launch every other month. Begin in a calendar month that’s relatively free of other commitments—this will give you a chance to get familiar with online learning and the weekly schedule.
- Allow for Change: Ask the RN to BSN program coordinator if there are penalties for shifting your schedule from full-time to part-time study. You’ll want some flexibility to change your mind about the calendar if life events occur.