Fastest Online RN to BSN Programs

UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN – MILWAUKEE (WI)

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 (~9 months), and you’ll pay less than $7,000. Finish it in 2 periods (~6 months) and you’ll pay less than $5,000.

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.

NORTHERN ARIZONA UNIVERSITY (AZ)

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.

WESTERN GOVERNORS UNIVERSITY (UT)

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 (which would equate to $4,885 in tuition).

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.

LOURDES UNIVERSITY (OH)

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.

UNIVERSITY OF TOLEDO (OH)

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 (~8 months). That’s the length we’ve used for our price quote, but it’s up to you to decide on the pace. 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?

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.

ANDERSON UNIVERSITY (SC)

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 7-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/9 months for completion (2 courses per 7-week term). But tuition will be cheaper if you can get things done more quickly!

Prerequisites 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, microbiology, biochemistry & human development.

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.

LAKE-SUMTER STATE COLLEGE (FL)

How Fast is LSSC’s Online RN to BSN?

For Florida RNs, it’s fast! LSSC states that its 100% Online RN to 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 to 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 generally sturdy at this ACEN-accredited school and job placement is strong.

ALBANY STATE UNIVERSITY (GA)

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 semesters or a part-time format of 4 semesters. In 2022, ASU partnered with the University System of Georgia (USG) to deliver five core courses through the eMajor Nurse Collaborative; the remaining five courses are handled by ASU. Georgia RNs are admitted into this program each semester—have a look at the Curriculum Pattern section for sample plans of study.

The section on Admission Criteria contains a full rundown of admissions requirements and the Program of Study has more details on prerequisites. 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 and ACEN-accredited. Browse through recent NCLEX & program completion rates to get a sense of its outcomes. The Department of Nursing is part of the Darton College of Health Professions, which is big enough to offer graduate programs in FNP and Nurse Educator. Keep in mind that eMajor courses will be charged at the higher RN-to-BSN tuition rate.

NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL UNIVERSITY (NC)

How Fast is NCCU’s Online RN to BSN?

On a full-time schedule, NCCU’s 100% Online RN-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. 30 hours must be completed at NCCU in order to earn the BSN.

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).

SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY (FL)

How Fast is SEU’s Online RN to BSN?

If you’re able to commit to full-time study—and you have all the religious prerequisites in hand—you can finish SEU’s Online RN to BSN in 2 semesters. You might take 5 courses/16 credits in the fall semester and 4 courses/14 credits in the second semester. The second semester will involve a community nursing practicum and a capstone project.

Prerequisites are outlined in full in the Undergraduate Catalog—you’ll see a number of undergraduate credits in religious studies and theology.  Because SEU is a Christian school, you’ll also be expected to complete 9 credit hours in “Divine Design”—this will involve ministry-focused experiential learning activities. 30 hours of transfer credits will be given to you for RN Licensure.

Why Choose SEU’s Online RN to BSN?

Anyone on the lookout for a strong, faith-based nursing program could consider SEU. NCLEX pass rates within the College of Natural & Health Sciences (CNHS) are less than ideal (often below 85%), but the BSN is CCNE-accredited. And it’s affordable for in-state and out-of-state students. Talk to recent alumni to get a feel for the degree.

GEORGIA SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY (GA)

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. The Community Nursing and Leadership & Management clinicals can be completed in approved settings.

Prerequisites can be found in the Curriculum section and 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.

CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY – SACRAMENTO (CA)

How Fast is Sac State’s Online RN to BSN?

If you push it, Sac State’s Online 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 also grant you an additional 19 course units for your NCLEX-RN license (i.e. block credits).

Why Choose Sac State’s Online RN to BSN?

Like CSUF, Sac State is a highly respectable public option for CA students—this RN to BSN is open to California residents with a valid CA RN license. 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 also say the school is good about catering to working nurses.

UNIVERSITY OF UTAH (UT)

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 113 hours of clinical practicums—45 hours at a Utah site and 68 hours in your place of employment. 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?

U of U’s 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. Just keep in mind that you will be required to travel to Utah for the Clinical Leadership practicum.

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA (AL)

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) for an accredited institution. It will also award you 30 credit hours of nursing credits (i.e. advanced standing or block credits) for your ASN or diploma of nursing in the semester you graduate from the Online 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 respectable NCLEX pass rates in recent years (e.g. 93%+). 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 for New York and South Dakota residents.

UTAH STATE UNIVERSITY (UT)

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 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 & General Education requirements 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 have been on the rise in recent years. 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.

DELTA STATE UNIVERSITY (MS)

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/Public Health Nursing. In the second semester (13 credit hours), you’ll have a practicum in Nursing Leadership & Management. These can be completed in your local area. Applications are accepted year-round.

Prerequisites are listed under the Degree Requirements section—see the Academic Maps. You’ll need 41 General Education credits and 13 Special Degree prerequisites (e.g. Microbiology). 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 employment numbers. And it makes a point of catering to working students.

UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL OKLAHOMA (OK)

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 in the Undergraduate Catalog. 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 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. These courses can count towards a BS and MS degree. Just be aware that graduate courses cost more.

UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA MEDICAL CENTER (NE)

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.

OKLAHOMA PANHANDLE STATE UNIVERSITY (OK)

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 RN to BSN Handbook—OPSU will only accept General Education (GE) credits from regionally accredited institutions. Students must have completed 41 credits of GE hours, 3 credits of Statistics, and 16 additional hours of electives. 30 hours of credit will also be awarded for your accredited AAS or Diploma in Nursing and RN licensure.

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 scholarship to Oklahoma students. It also emphasizes rural nursing issues within the curriculum.

LEWIS-CLARK STATE COLLEGE (ID)

How Fast is LC State’s Online RN to BSN?

LC State 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 LC State 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 LC State for a preliminary evaluation of credits to learn if you meet all the prerequisites (e.g. Statistics).

Why Choose LC State’s Online RN to BSN?

LC State 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 respectable 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 LC State Scholarships.

MARSHALL UNIVERSITY (WV)

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.

The School of Nursing will award up to 40 hours of undergraduate nursing credit for an associate degree or diploma 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 sturdy NCLEX & NP certification pass rates. It offers Online MSN options. And it tends to receive excellent independent reviews from happy nursing alumni!

CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY – FULLERTON (CA)

How Fast is CSUF’s Online RN to BSN?

The quickest time-frame for CSUF’s Online RN-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. All applicants must have completed 60 credits from a regionally accredited institution, including prerequisites, by the application deadline. See the RN-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.

UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL MISSOURI (MO)

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.

TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY (TN)

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/13 credits in the first semester, including a Health Assessment Lab, and 6 courses/17 credits 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.

MINOT STATE UNIVERSITY (ND)

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. Note that we’ve included the mandatory course fees for 4 nursing courses in our price estimate.

Use the RN to BSN Program Fact Sheet to learn more about prerequisites & General Education (GE) requirements. These courses can be taken before or during the program, but Statistics must be completed before or concurrently with NURS 363: Nursing Theory & Research. 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.

TROY UNIVERSITY (AL)

How Fast is Troy’s Online RN to BSN?

Full-time students can finish Troy’s Online RN Mobility (RN-BSN) program in 8 months. A part-time, 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. On a full-time schedule, you’d take 6 courses/13 credits in the first semester and 4 courses/11 credits in the second.

Prerequisites are listed in the recommended Degree Maps and within the Undergraduate Catalog. When you examine the degree maps, you’ll notice that RN to BSN students can take a graduate-level course (NSG 6691) while finishing BSN requirements. This option is available if you begin the program in the fall semester.

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.

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI (MS)

How Fast is USM’s Online RN to BSN?

USM’s convenient Online RN to BSN can be completed in 2 speedy semesters. You can choose a fall/spring schedule or a spring/summer plan of a study. If you choose the fall/spring schedule, you’ll tackle two 15-week courses and two 7-week courses in each semester. If you opt for the spring/summer schedule, you’ll be required to complete four 10-week courses during the summer.

Visit USM’s Academic Bulletin and search for the program to find a list of prerequisites and General Education requirements. A course in Statistics or Biostatistics is required, but only two of the three natural sciences must be completed when you apply. Overall, USM will expect you to have earned at least a C in each nursing course from your associate degree in nursing program or diploma program.

Why Choose USM’s Online RN to BSN?

Local connections! USM’s College of Nursing and Health Professions offers the only Nurse Anesthesia program in the state, and it’s part of an initiative to provide healthcare to underserved areas of Hattiesburg through the Fellowship Health Clinic. You don’t need to have any prior work experience when you apply for the Online RN to BSN and you may be eligible for online student scholarships. Just bear in mind that’s only open to Mississippi RNs or those who registered to practice in a Compact State.

TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES CENTER (TX)

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 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.

KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY (KY)

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 General Education & science requirements. KSU will also grant you 38 Advanced Placement in Nursing credits.

Why Choose KSU’s Online RN to BSN?

Although it’s not a big academic player, KSU’s School of Nursing is doing its best. Even though NCLEX pass rates can be changeable, it offers 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 a sample budget. We haven’t included School of Nursing expenses in our price estimate since these costs will vary.

UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS MEDICAL BRANCH (TX)

How Fast is UTMB’s Online RN to BSN?

UTMB’s 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. 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—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. UTMB is an upper division nursing school, so you’ll need to complete any missing prerequisites at another university or community college.  Submit your application between September 15^th and March 15^th for Early Notification.

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. If you already have 1 year of work experience, you could also consider adding on an MSN.

MOUNT CARMEL COLLEGE OF NURSING (OH)

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/8 months. 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.

UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND-BALTIMORE (MD)

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. We’ve included mandatory per semester fees in our price estimate.

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.

UVA WISE (VA)

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.

Check the College Catalog for info on prerequisites. 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 Statistics.

Why Choose UVA Wise’s Online RN to BSN?

Because of its unique curriculum, UVA Wise might be a good pick for RNs who are interested in rural issues. Although NCLEX pass rates aren’t strong, the Department of Nursing has small class sizes and minimal student debt. Check out the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) Tuition Discount for students in Kentucky, Tennessee, or the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) territories and Department of Nursing Awards.

ALCORN STATE UNIVERSITY (MS)

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.

LINCOLN MEMORIAL UNIVERSITY (TN)

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.

UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HEALTH SCIENCE CENTER AT HOUSTON (TX)

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; Statistics must be completed before you start the program. 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).

UNIVERSITY OF HAWAI’I AT MANOA (HI)

How Fast is UHM’s Online RN to BSN?

At a fast clip, UH Mānoa’s 100% Online RN 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 HI 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. Since clinical practicums must be completed in the state of Hawai’i, we’re calling this an in-state program.

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. 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 RN 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.

SAINT LOUIS UNIVERSITY (MO)

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 RN to BSN 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—so you’ll need to plan for an extra course.

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.

DAEMEN COLLEGE (NY)

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 plan of study 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.

For more details, see the suggested Course Sequence and list of Prerequisites in the Undergraduate Catalog. All candidates must have completed at least 60 credit hours of liberal arts & sciences to be considered for this RN to BS. Statistics is included in the RN to BS curriculum.

Why Choose Daemen’s Online RN to BSN?

With 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.

GEORGE MASON UNIVERSITY (VA)

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. 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 section on Courses. You’ll need to have 57 credits of Mason Core and general electives completed before you begin the program. Unless you have a previous bachelor’s degree, you’ll be expected to take ENGH 302: Advanced Composition during your RN to BSN. 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.

UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT ARLINGTON (TX)

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.

Prerequisites at UTA are known as General Courses. You’ll be expected to have 54 credits of GE coursework and 6 credits of upper-division electives; 28 hours of your ADN coursework will be applied to the BSN. A course in Technical Writing is required—you may need to add this to your schedule if you haven’t taken an equivalent undergraduate class. UTA offers 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).

OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY (OK)

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 on the Admissions page. OSU is looking for 41 General Education credits and 17 College of Education and Human Sciences requirements (including Statistics). 30 credits will be awarded through a portfolio review of your accredited associate degree or diploma in nursing & RN license.

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.

JACKSONVILLE UNIVERSITY (FL)

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 is also available. Online RN to BSN courses are 7 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 & 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, helpful advisors, supportive atmosphere, and 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.

NORFOLK STATE UNIVERSITY (VA)

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).

SAINT JOSEPH’S COLLEGE OF MAINE (ME)

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. There are 4 start dates per year.

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. We’ve given you the price estimate if you transfer the maximum of 90 credits.

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 and Online MSN pathways are available. SJC also has transfer agreements with a number of local community colleges.

UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA HEALTH SCIENCES CENTER (OK)

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. On a full-time 2-semester program with a fall start (9 months), you’d take 15 credits/4 courses in the first semester and 15 credits/5 courses in the second semester. The estimated weekly time commitment is 2-3 hours per credit hour per week.

Check the Prerequisite Courses section for more details on requirements. You’ll need to complete 61 credits in total, including 3 laboratory science courses. In addition, OUHSC will grant you 30 credits of nursing advanced standing hours to bring the total of transfer credits up to 91.

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 RN license. 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.

D’YOUVILLE UNIVERSITY (NY)

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 more expensive than other options. Talk to recent alumni for a sense of their experiences.

COLORADO TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY (CO)

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 11-week 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 & 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.

UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI (OH)

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). 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.

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.

FAYETTEVILLE STATE UNIVERSITY (NC)

How Fast is FSU’s Online RN to BSN?

On a full-time plan, you can finish FSU’s highly affordable 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 CCNE-accredited School of Nursing is less well known than other UNC-affiliated schools and NCLEX pass rates have been up & down, but it’s an HBCU school with diverse faculty.

YOUNGSTOWN STATE UNIVERSITY (OH)

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. It also comes with multiple start dates throughout the year—you can begin in the spring, summer, or fall. Keep in mind that it’s only available to Midwest applicants.

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?

The ACEN-accredited Centofanti School of Nursing isn’t one of the top-ranked schools in Ohio, but it offers a number of graduate programs—including a DNP 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.

SOUTHWESTERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY (TX)

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.

Prerequisites are listed on the program page. 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.

MCNEESE STATE UNIVERSITY (LA)

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.

SOUTHERN UTAH UNIVERSITY (UT)

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!

NORTHEASTERN STATE UNIVERSITY (OK)

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 10 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). The program has 6 start dates each year.

Transfers & prerequisites are listed under Required General Education Courses in the Courses section. NSU states that—in general—prerequisites should be completed prior to beginning RN to BSN coursework.  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.

UNIVERSITY OF MAINE AT FORT KENT (ME)

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 & MSN 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 some state exceptions for this distance learning program. View the list of accepted states under Admissions Requirements.

NORTHERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY (KY)

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 section for admissions deadlines and sample start dates.

Prerequisites & transfer credits are listed under the Courses section. You’ll need to have an assortment of General Education, Health Sciences, and Nursing credits in hand, but NKU will grant you 23 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 strong (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, Health Informatics, etc.). This may be a bonus in your future line of work.

SOUTH DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY (SD)

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 Undergraduate Catalog. SDSU will accept up to 90 transfer credits. Of these 90 credits, 46 transfer credits will be awarded for your Associate Degree. Candidates can be admitted to the Online RN to BSN with 1-3 prerequisite courses left for 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 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. Check out the tuition discounts for RNs in neighboring states.

WILLIAM PATERSON UNIVERSITY (NJ)

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. Statistics is required. 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.

AUSTIN PEAY STATE UNIVERSITY (TN)

How Fast is APSU’s Online RN to BSN?

APSU’s Online RN to BSN can be tackled on a full-time schedule or part-time schedule. Full-time students often take 2 courses per term for 5 terms, but you can opt for up to 3 courses. Since standard terms at APSU are 8 weeks long, we’re estimating it will take 40 weeks/10 months to finish. You’ll be completing a Leadership for RNs Clinical in the fourth term. The program is 100% online and there are 5 start dates per year.

Prerequisites are listed in the Undergraduate Catalog; APSU will want to see Statistics. Once you’re enrolled, you’ll also be able to choose an RN to BSN elective in an ER topic that can prepare you for certification (e.g. Wound Care for RNs). 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 good choice for Tennessee students—the School of Nursing achieves reasonable 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.

RADFORD UNIVERSITY (VA)

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, as well as a final clinical & capstone.

To meet Radford’s General Education requirements, students must have at least 56 approved transfer credit hours, including Statistics, 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 it 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.

CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY (MI)

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. According to the FAQs section, students who are bringing in the maximum number of transfer credits can complete the program in 2.5 semesters. That equates to 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.

VANGUARD UNIVERSITY (CA)

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 California 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.

ST. CATHERINE UNIVERSITY (MN)

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 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. You can transfer up to 90 credits into this program, but you’ll be required to complete a minimum of 30 semester credits in residence at St. Kate. If you have a previous baccalaureate degree, this requirement drops to 26 credits.

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 posted annually.

REGIS UNIVERSITY (CO)

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 6 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.