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Best Online RN-to-BSN Programs Overview
March 10, 2021 | Staff WritersADVERTISEMENT
Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?
Whether you’re looking to get your pre-licensure degree or taking the next step in your career, the education you need could be more affordable than you think. Find the right nursing program for you.
I WANT MYSelect a DegreeAssociate’sBachelor’sMaster’sDoctorateCertificate / DiplomaGraduate CertificatesFOCUSING ONSelect a SubjectEmergency ManagementHealth EducationHealth InformaticsHealth ScienceHealth ServicesHealthcare AdministrationHealthcare ManagementHuman ServicesNutritional SciencesOccupational TherapyPublic HealthRN to BSN (RN required)FIND YOUR PROGRAM
There are many pathways to a nursing career. For example, nurses can earn registered nursing (RN) licensure with either an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or bachelor of science in nursing (BSN).
Many associate degree-holders later add a bachelor’s degree to their educational qualifications. A BSN equips RNs with more advanced skills and knowledge, and RNs with BSNs typically earn higher salaries. On average, BSN-holders earn about $85,000 annually, while ADN-holders make around $69,500 each year.
Fortunately, RNs do not necessarily need to spend four years earning a BSN. RN-to-BSN programs usually last 1-2 years. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), there are 777 RN-to-BSN programs available across the United States.
More than 600 of these programs include some online components. Online RN-to-BSN programs are a great option for RNs who work full or part time.
If earning an RN-to-BSN online appeals to you, check out the following list of the best online RN-to-BSN programs.READ ABOUT OUR RANKING METHODOLOGY HERE
Looking for an entry-level nursing degree but not sure where to start?
Top Online RN-to-BSN Programs for 2021
| RANK | SCHOOL | LOCATION |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Florida | Gainesville, FL |
| 2 | University of Central Florida | Orlando, FL |
| 3 | Ohio State University | Columbus, OH |
| 4 | The University of Alabama | Tuscaloosa, AL |
| 5 | Florida International University | Miami, FL |
| 6 | Appalachian State University | Boone, NC |
| 7 | Texas A&M University | College Station, TX |
| 8 | Pennsylvania State University-World Campus | University Park, PA |
| 9 | University of Massachusetts Amherst | Amherst, MA |
| 10 | Farmingdale State College | Farmingdale, NY |
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- University of FloridaLOCATIONGainesville, FLTUITION$$$$$
- University of Central FloridaLOCATIONOrlando, FLTUITION$$$$$
- Ohio State UniversityLOCATIONColumbus, OHTUITION$$$$$
- The University of AlabamaLOCATIONTuscaloosa, ALTUITION$$$$$
- Florida International UniversityLOCATIONMiami, FLTUITION$$$$$
- Appalachian State UniversityLOCATIONBoone, NCTUITION$$$$$
- Texas A&M UniversityLOCATIONCollege Station, TXTUITION$$$$$
- Pennsylvania State University-World CampusLOCATIONUniversity Park, PATUITION$$$$$
- University of Massachusetts AmherstLOCATIONAmherst, MATUITION$$$$$
- Farmingdale State CollegeLOCATIONFarmingdale, NYTUITION$$$$$
- Clemson UniversityLOCATIONClemson, SCTUITION$$$$$
- University of North Carolina WilmingtonLOCATIONWilmington, NCTUITION$$$$$
- James Madison UniversityLOCATIONHarrisonburg, VATUITION$$$$$
- Florida Atlantic UniversityLOCATIONBoca Raton, FLTUITION$$$$$
- University of North FloridaLOCATIONJacksonville, FLTUITION$$$$$
VIEW MORE
Applying to an RN-to-MSN Bridge Program
Online RN-to-MSN programs typically maintain the same admission requirements as on-campus programs. All RN-to-BSN candidates must hold RN licensure and an ADN.
Usually, applicants are expected to hold a minimum GPA — typically 2.0-3.0 — and to have completed associate-level anatomy and physiology courses. Many schools require some professional nursing experience, and some ask for ACT or SAT scores.
In general, applicants can expect to provide their associate degree transcripts, resume, and at least one professional or academic recommendation letter.
Frequently Asked Questions
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- What’s the difference between a BSN and an RN license?
- What is accreditation and why is it important?
- How long does it take to complete an online RN-to-BSN program?
- What can I do with a BSN?
Nursing Pros Also Found Helpful
Resources and articles written by professionals and other Nurses like you.
Best Online ADN-to-BSN Programs | NurseJournal.org
By earning a BSN, RNs can increase their career and salary prospects. Here are the best online ADN-to-BSN programs for nurses seeking advanced education.
By Staff Writers
March 10, 2021
Read More
Best Online ADN-to-BSN Programs | NurseJournal.org
By earning a BSN, RNs can increase their career and salary prospects. Here are the best online ADN-to-BSN programs for nurses seeking advanced education.
By Staff Writers
March 10, 2021
Read More
The Best Online RN-to-DNP Programs 2021 | NurseJournal.org
Online RN-to-DNP programs let working nurses achieve the highest level of education with only a diploma. Get the facts on this page about how to apply.
By Staff Writers
March 10, 2021
Read More
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Best Online RN-to-BSN Programs 2021
FEB 18, 2021 TBS STAFF
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Are you ready to discover your college program?
Select a Degree Level Select a Degree Associate’s Bachelor’s Master’s Doctorate Certificate / Diploma Graduate Certificates Select a Category Select a Category Art & Design Business & Management Computers & Technology Criminal Justice & Legal Education & Teaching Liberal Arts & Humanities Nursing & Healthcare Psychology & Counseling Science & Engineering Trades & Careers Select a Subject Select a Subject Emergency Management Health Education Health Informatics Health Science Health Services Healthcare Administration Healthcare Management Human Services Nutritional Sciences Occupational Therapy Public Health RN to BSN (RN required) FIND MY PROGRAMAD
Online RN-to-BSN programs help registered nurses advance their careers.
These bridge programs build off of the knowledge and skills gained during a nursing associate or diploma program, allowing students to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in just two years.
RNs enjoy strong job prospects. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for nurses are projected to grow 7% between 2019 and 2029. These professionals made median annual salaries of $73,300 in 2019, with the top 10% of earners making more than $110,000 during that period.
Earning an RN-to-BSN online gives students the flexibility to balance their studies with professional and personal obligations. Online learning also allows students to attend the top RN-to-BSN programs in the country without relocating. This guide ranks the best online RN-to-BSN programs to help students find the right programs for their needs.
| #1 | University of Florida-Online | GAINESVILLE, FL |
| #2 | Florida International University | MIAMI, FL |
| #3 | Penn State World Campus | UNIVERSITY PARK, PA |
| #4 | Southern New Hampshire University | MANCHESTER, NH |
| #5 | University of Wisconsi – Stevens Point | STEVENS POINT, WI |
| #6 | Northwestern State University of Louisiana | NATCHITOCHES, LA |
| #7 | University of Louisiana at Monroe | MONROE, LA |
| #8 | The University of West Florida | PENSACOLA, FL |
| #9 | Nicholls State University | THIBODAUX, LA |
| #10 | University of North Dakota | GRAND FORKS, ND |
What Is an RN-to-BSN Program?
Online RN-to-BSN programs allow students with a nursing associate degree or diploma to earn a bachelor’s degree in 1-2 years of additional study. Students in these programs commonly possess several years of nursing experience. They frequently continue working while enrolled, and many programs accommodate working students through flexible learning formats and schedules.
RN-to-BSN students gain leadership and management skills, advanced research competencies, and knowledge of best practices and emerging trends in nursing.
Choosing an Online RN-to-BSN Program
When researching RN-to-BSN programs, students should consider factors like cost, transfer policies, and on-campus requirements. We cover several important considerations for prospective students below.
- Program Cost: Public schools typically cost less than private schools, and in-state students often receive a tuition discount. However, some programs allow all online students to pay the same tuition rate regardless of residency.
- Transfer Policies: Many programs offer transfer credit for prior academic work, professional experience, and military training. Programs with generous transfer policies can help students save time and money on a degree.
- School Size and Type: A school’s size and type can affect the learning experience. For instance, small schools often offer more individualized attention than larger schools, while large schools provide more program options than small schools.
- Program Length: Most RN-to-BSN programs take around two years to complete, but some programs offer accelerated timelines.
- On-Campus Requirements: Some online RN-to-BSN programs have on-campus requirements. Students should ensure they can meet these requirements before committing to a program.
- Thesis, Fellowship, and Work Requirements: Programs may require a thesis or internship, both of which require a significant time investment. Students should choose a program that has requirements aligned with their career goals.
What Else Can I Expect From an Online RN-to-BSN Program?
Many RN-to-BSN programs offer electives and concentrations that allow students to specialize their knowledge and tailor the degree to their career goals. The following sections cover common courses and concentrations found in these programs and explore the importance of attending an accredited program.
Online RN-to-BSN Program Curriculum
- Anatomy and Physiology: This course examines the structures and functions of the human body. Students learn how different bodily systems — such as the digestive, cardiovascular, muscular, and skeletal systems — work together. Learners also study how abnormal functions can help nurses identify health issues.
- Applied Healthcare Statistics: This course teaches students how to analyze and apply patient data to improve health outcomes. Students gain knowledge and skills in analyzing and synthesizing raw data, identifying how data informs nursing policy, and conducting statistical research.
- Human Growth and Development: This foundational course examines how humans develop throughout the lifespan. Learners study research on human growth with respect to biological, emotional, intellectual, and social development.
- Clinical Microbiology: his class covers how microorganisms function and contribute to disease, using epidemiological, immunological, and pathological lenses to examine how disease progress. Through lab requirements, students build knowledge and skills in areas like aseptic techniques, antibiotic susceptibility, and characteristics of bacteria.
- Health Assessment: In this course, students learn how to detect illnesses and improve the overall delivery of healthcare and nursing services. Learners review a variety of health assessment models and gain skills and knowledge in physical assessments and evidence-based wellness frameworks.
Nursing Concentrations
Students earning an RN-to-BSN online can often pursue concentrations that allow them to specialize their skills. We cover several common nursing concentrations below.COLLAPSE LIST
Gerontology
Orthopedics
Acute Care
Primary Care
Pediatrics
How Long Does It Take to Complete an Online RN-to-BSN Program?
Most online RN-to-BSN programs take two years to complete, but students can often pursue accelerated or part-time options as well. Students with abundant personal and professional obligations may benefit from the lower course load of a part-time program, while learners seeking to complete the degree as quickly as possible benefit from accelerated programs.
An online RN-to-BSN program’s delivery format can also impact the length of a degree. For example, programs with asynchronous courses allow students to access course materials and lectures on their own schedule, while synchronous programs require students to log in at specific times.
Accreditation for Online RN-to-BSN Programs
When researching prospective programs, students should look for accreditation status. Accreditation indicates that a school meets high standards with respect to faculty qualifications, academic rigor, and student learning outcomes. Only students at accredited schools qualify for federal financial aid, and many schools only accept degrees and credits from accredited institutions. Additionally, nurses need an accredited degree to qualify for professional credentials.
Schools may receive regional or national accreditation, with regional accreditation generally considered the more prestigious of the two. Programs within a school may also receive accreditation. For example, the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredit nursing programs.
Students can verify a school’s accreditation status through the Database of Postsecondary Institutions and Programs provided by the U.S. Department of Education.
Nursing Certifications
Certifications allow nurses to demonstrate specialized expertise and compete for advanced roles. We cover several common nursing certifications below.
Oncology Certified Nurse
Candidates for this credential need at least two years of RN experience, at least 2,000 hours of oncology nursing practice, and a minimum of 10 hours of oncology nursing continuing education. They must also pass a three-hour, 165-question exam.
Certified Emergency Nurse
Candidates for this credential need at least two years of relevant experience. They must also pass the certification exam, which comprises 175 peer-reviewed questions and must be taken at an approved Pearson Professional Center.
Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing Certification
Candidates need two years of full-time RN experience, 2,000 hours of psychiatric-mental health clinical practice, and 30 hours of psychiatric-mental health continuing education credits. They must also pass a three-hour, 150-question exam.
Critical Care Registered Nurse
RNs and APRNs with at least 1,750 hours of acute/critical care nursing practice can apply for this credential. Candidates can use the CCRN exam handbook to prepare for the qualifying exam.
Pediatric Nursing Certification
Candidates for this credential need at least two years of full-time RN experience, 2,000 hours of clinical pediatric nursing practice, and 30 continuing education credits in pediatric nursing. The exam comprises 50 questions and takes three hours to complete.
Nursing Careers
Graduates with a BSN qualify for a variety of fulfilling careers. We cover several common careers for graduates below; however, some positions may require additional education or certification.COLLAPSE LIST
Registered Nurses
Registered nurses work on the frontlines of patient care. They assess patient conditions, record medical histories, observe symptoms, and report their findings. They also complete care plans, collaborate with doctors, teach patients and families how to manage an illness or injury, and perform diagnostic tests. All RNs need at least a nursing diploma and a state license to practice.
Medical and Health Services Managers
Nurse Practitioners
Nursing Professional Organizations
Nursing students and professionals can take advantage of professional organizations to support their careers. The following organizations offer benefits such as networking, professional development, and continuing education opportunities.
- National Student Nurses AssociationNSNA supports nursing students as they complete degree requirements and work toward initial licensure. The group provides advocacy services, mid-year and annual conferences, and an active career center stocked with NCLEX-RN tools, student resource guides, and career planning tools.
- American Nurses AssociationANA represents 4 million nurses throughout the country. The organization provides professional development resources, practice and advocacy support, certification opportunities, and educational services. The group also organizes several events throughout the year.
- Society of Pediatric NursesRepresenting over 3,600 pediatric nurses, this society hosts networking opportunities, grants and awards, podcasts and webinars, and regularly updated clinical practice guidelines.
- Society of Nurses in Advanced PracticeThis group supports advanced practice nurses working in Northwest Indiana. Members gain access to an annual conference, continuing education programs, employment listings, and scholarship opportunities.
- Emergency Nurses AssociationMembers of ENA have access to online courses and continuing education programming, practice resources, local and national events, and the Journal of Emergency Nursing. The group also offers government relations services and member discounts for professional services.
The Best Online RN-to-BSN Programs
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| 1 | University of Florida-Online | GAINESVILLE, FL | School ProfileApply NowAVERAGE NET PRICE$$$$$The University of Florida is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The College of Nursing holds accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). | Established in 1853, UF moved to its Gainesville location in 1906. Students pursuing medical careers benefit from the only U.S. university with six health-related colleges on one camp…See MoreGRADUATION RATE88%PERCENT RECEIVING LOANS27%ONLINE ENROLLMENT100% |
| 2 | Florida International University | MIAMI, FL | School ProfileApply NowAVERAGE NET PRICE$$$$$Florida International University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing and Health Sciences holds accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). | Founded in 1965 as a public research institution, Miami-based FIU offers remote learning to 40,000 students annual…See MoreGRADUATION RATE58%PERCENT RECEIVING LOANS34%ONLINE ENROLLMENT65% |
| 3 | Penn State World Campus | UNIVERSITY PARK, PA | School ProfileApply NowAVERAGE NET PRICE$$$$$Pennsylvania State University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). The College of Nursing holds accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). | Penn State, established in 1855, launched its world campus in 1998, accommodating 20,000 distance learners annual…See MoreGRADUATION RATE71%PERCENT RECEIVING LOANS48%ONLINE ENROLLMENT100% |
| 4 | Southern New Hampshire University | MANCHESTER, NH | School ProfileApply Now | |
| 5 | University of Wisconsi – Stevens Point | STEVENS POINT, WI | Apply NowAVERAGE NET PRICE$$$$$ | |
| 6 | Northwestern State University of Louisiana | NATCHITOCHES, LA | School ProfileApply NowAVERAGE NET PRICE$$$$$ | |
| 7 | University of Louisiana at Monroe | MONROE, LA | School ProfileApply NowAVERAGE NET PRICE$$$$$ | |
| 8 | The University of West Florida | PENSACOLA, FL | Apply NowAVERAGE NET PRICE$$$$$ | |
| 9 | Nicholls State University | THIBODAUX, LA | School ProfileApply NowAVERAGE NET PRICE$$$$$ | |
| 10 | University of North Dakota | GRAND FORKS, ND | School ProfileApply NowAVERAGE NET PRICE$$$$$ | |
| 11 | Cabarrus College of Health Sciences | CONCORD, NC | Apply Now | |
| 12 | Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences | LANCASTER, PA | Apply Now | |
| 13 | Fort Hays State University | HAYS, KS | School ProfileApply NowAVERAGE NET PRICE$$$$$ | |
| 14 | Missouri State University – Springfield | SPRINGFIELD, MO | School ProfileApply NowAVERAGE NET PRICE$$$$$ | |
| 15 | Mount Carmel College of Nursing | COLUMBUS, OH | Apply Now | |
| 16 | University of North Alabama | FLORENCE, AL | School ProfileApply NowAVERAGE NET PRICE$$$$$ | |
| 17 | Southeast Missouri State University | CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO | School ProfileApply NowAVERAGE NET PRICE$$$$$ | |
| 18 | Clayton State University | MORROW, GA | Apply NowAVERAGE NET PRICE$$$$$ | |
| 19 | The University of Texas of the Permian Basin | ODESSA, TX | School ProfileApply NowAVERAGE NET PRICE$$$$$ | |
| 20 | Maryville University of Saint Louis | SAINT LOUIS, MO | Apply Now | |
| 21 | Florida Atlantic University | BOCA RATON, FL | Apply NowAVERAGE NET PRICE$$$$$ | |
| 22 | Georgia Southern University | STATESBORO, GA | School ProfileApply NowAVERAGE NET PRICE$$$$$ | |
| 23 | St Luke’s College | SIOUX CITY, IA | Apply Now | |
| 24 | Minot State University | MINOT, ND | School ProfileApply NowAVERAGE NET PRICE$$$$$ | |
| 25 | Arizona State Universit – Skysong | SCOTTSDALE, AZ | Apply NowAVERAGE NET PRICE$$$$$ |
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End of list, bravo!
RANKING METHODOLOGY
Online RN to BSN Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.DOWNLOAD BADGERANKING METHODOLOGY
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is an RN-to-BSN Program?
These bridge programs help RNs with a diploma or associate degree earn a bachelor’s degree with two years of additional study.
What is the Difference Between RN vs. BSN?
How Long Are RN-to-BSN Programs?
Do RN-to-BSN Programs Require Clinicals?
What Prerequisites Do I Need for an RN-to-BSN Program?
Learn more, do more.
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