Best Bachelor’s in Nursing Online Programs of 2025
Boost your nursing career by graduating from an online BSN program. Explore this page to find the best programs and learn if they are worth it.
At BestColleges.com, we believe in providing accurate and actionable information for students. Our writers, editors, and reporters are constantly asking themselves the question, "What information is vital to students right now?" Answering this question is what drives us. Our mission is to inform students through straightforward, factual content informed by the latest data and trends.
The freelance Integrity Network at BestColleges is comprised of seasoned professionals who bring their expertise to almost every subject relevant to college students, including admissions, college majors, financial aid, and student mental health. Network members review and author content, pulling from their first-hand industry experience and ensuring content is as accurate and up-to-date as possible.
If you're interested in joining our Integrity Network, contact us at media@bestcolleges.com. Integrity Network members typically have a graduate or terminal degree and several years of relevant professional experience.
Explore our full list of Integrity Network members.
3,700+ Nonprofit, accredited colleges analyzed
6,000+ Users connected with programs every month
300+ College and university partners
40+ Expert reviewers
Learn more about our Editorial Policy and Standards and Advertising Disclosure.
2025Nurses are more necessary than ever. Due to an ongoing nursing shortage, once you graduate from a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program, you can get licensure and leap into a healthcare career.
Online BSN programs are designed for busy registered nurses (RNs) with active licenses who want to advance their careers. If this sounds like you, continue reading to learn more about the best bachelor’s in nursing online programs of 2025.
Bachelor’s in Nursing Online Highlights
- Most (98%) online nursing and healthcare students and graduates say they would recommend online education to others.
- Of these students, 95% say they think earning an online degree has had or will have a positive return on investment.
- 77% of students currently enrolled in fully online programs are enrolled full time. Of that group, 53% are also employed either full time (43%) or part time (10%).
Top Online Bachelor’s in Nursing Programs
How We Rank Schools
To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.
To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then ranked based on a formula measuring:
2025- Affordability (30%)
- Student outcomes (30%)
- Reputation (20%)
- Diversity and social mobility (20%)
In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges.
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$4,477
$25,694
24%
57%
Why We Chose This School
The University of Florida's undergraduate degree in nursing online program will put you on a path toward nursing leadership. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), this program is designed for working registered nurses: You can complete your coursework completely online.
The curriculum will give you information-management skills so you can further your career. Studying with elite faculty, you'll learn how to provide leadership while delivering safe, effective healthcare. You'll also learn how to influence nursing practice and implement wellness strategies.
This rigorous program has been approved by the Florida Board of Nursing.
Highlights
- CCNE-accredited
- Designed for working nurses
Know Before You Apply
- $129 per credit for Florida residents
- $553 per credit for non-residents
$10,770
$27,335
97%
54,814
Public
Yes
$4,477
$25,694
Gainesville, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$4,477
$25,694
24%
57%
$10,770
$27,335
97%
54,814
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The University of Florida's undergraduate degree in nursing online program will put you on a path toward nursing leadership. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), this program is designed for working registered nurses: You can complete your coursework completely online.
The curriculum will give you information-management skills so you can further your career. Studying with elite faculty, you'll learn how to provide leadership while delivering safe, effective healthcare. You'll also learn how to influence nursing practice and implement wellness strategies.
This rigorous program has been approved by the Florida Board of Nursing.
Highlights
- CCNE-accredited
- Designed for working nurses
Know Before You Apply
- $129 per credit for Florida residents
- $553 per credit for non-residents
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI4 yearCampus + Online
$11,216
$37,904
43%
24%
Why We Chose This School
The University of Wisconsin-Madison's RN-to-BSN online program builds on the technical and scientific knowledge you gained in an associate program. This program will give you the critical thinking skills you need to provide safe and effective healthcare.
Designed for busy nurses, you can complete this program in 18-30 months, studying in the fall and spring semesters, with the option to take summer courses. At the end of the program, you'll complete one clinical, which involves 60 hours at a healthcare facility of your choice.
This program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Highlights
- Takes 18-30 months to complete
- CCNE-accredited
Know Before You Apply
- Requires 60 hours of clinical work
- Costs $452 per credit
- Requires 20-30 credits
$10,728
$24,054
95%
50,633
Public
Yes
$11,216
$37,904
Madison, WI4 yearCampus + Online
$11,216
$37,904
43%
24%
$10,728
$24,054
95%
50,633
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The University of Wisconsin-Madison's RN-to-BSN online program builds on the technical and scientific knowledge you gained in an associate program. This program will give you the critical thinking skills you need to provide safe and effective healthcare.
Designed for busy nurses, you can complete this program in 18-30 months, studying in the fall and spring semesters, with the option to take summer courses. At the end of the program, you'll complete one clinical, which involves 60 hours at a healthcare facility of your choice.
This program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Highlights
- Takes 18-30 months to complete
- CCNE-accredited
Know Before You Apply
- Requires 60 hours of clinical work
- Costs $452 per credit
- Requires 20-30 credits
Texas A & M University-College Station
College Station, TX4 yearCampus + Online
$8,443
$36,637
63%
40%
Why We Chose This School
The RN-to-BSN program at Texas A&M University lets students complete their practicums in their own communities. All 30 credits are delivered fully online, so you can learn on your own time.
The program is designed for those with unencumbered RN licenses, so you should have an associate degree in nursing before applying to this program.
You should also have a 2.75 GPA and have completed 59 hours of prerequisite courses in the physical, behavioral, and biological sciences as well as the humanities.
Coursework includes nursing dimensions and informatics for the RN, leadership and management for the RN, and care of older adults.
Highlights
- Accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
- You can complete the practicum in your own community
Know Before You Apply
- Costs over $9,800 to attend for in-state students
- Requires above a 2.75 GPA for admission
$6,885
$19,593
94%
76,633
Public
Yes
$8,443
$36,637
College Station, TX4 yearCampus + Online
$8,443
$36,637
63%
40%
$6,885
$19,593
94%
76,633
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The RN-to-BSN program at Texas A&M University lets students complete their practicums in their own communities. All 30 credits are delivered fully online, so you can learn on your own time.
The program is designed for those with unencumbered RN licenses, so you should have an associate degree in nursing before applying to this program.
You should also have a 2.75 GPA and have completed 59 hours of prerequisite courses in the physical, behavioral, and biological sciences as well as the humanities.
Coursework includes nursing dimensions and informatics for the RN, leadership and management for the RN, and care of older adults.
Highlights
- Accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
- You can complete the practicum in your own community
Know Before You Apply
- Costs over $9,800 to attend for in-state students
- Requires above a 2.75 GPA for admission
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA4 yearCampus + Online
$10,092
$34,260
89%
71%
Why We Chose This School
George Mason University's BSN program centers on disease prevention and health promotion, preparing you to provide leadership and deliver first-rate healthcare. As an applicant to this program, you can choose from between three pathways: traditional, accelerated, co-enrollment, and RN-to-BSN.
While part-time options are available for RN-to-BSN and co-enrollment programs, traditional and accelerated students must study full time. When you enter the program, you'll have to take a background check required by the Virginia Board of Nursing.
Throughout the program, you'll prepare for the NCLEX-RN licensing exams through nursing coursework and a final cumulative assessment.
Highlights
- Scholarships available
- Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Offers four tracks
- Provides rigorous training for the NCLEX-RN exam
Know Before You Apply
- In-state students pay $433 per credit
- Out-of-state students pay $1,453 per credit
$13,426
$35,377
87%
39,528
Public
Yes
$10,092
$34,260
Fairfax, VA4 yearCampus + Online
$10,092
$34,260
89%
71%
$13,426
$35,377
87%
39,528
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
George Mason University's BSN program centers on disease prevention and health promotion, preparing you to provide leadership and deliver first-rate healthcare. As an applicant to this program, you can choose from between three pathways: traditional, accelerated, co-enrollment, and RN-to-BSN.
While part-time options are available for RN-to-BSN and co-enrollment programs, traditional and accelerated students must study full time. When you enter the program, you'll have to take a background check required by the Virginia Board of Nursing.
Throughout the program, you'll prepare for the NCLEX-RN licensing exams through nursing coursework and a final cumulative assessment.
Highlights
- Scholarships available
- Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Offers four tracks
- Provides rigorous training for the NCLEX-RN exam
Know Before You Apply
- In-state students pay $433 per credit
- Out-of-state students pay $1,453 per credit
James Madison University
Harrisonburg, VA4 yearCampus + Online
$7,914
$25,128
76%
30%
Why We Chose This School
The online RN-to-BSN program at James Madison University offers all classes asynchronously, so you can balance your coursework with your career. Learning from expert faculty, you'll study in small classes in a creative learning environment.
You'll build on the skills you gained in your associate or diploma program, developing a foundation for professional nursing practice.
You can choose to complete the program in one year as a full-time student or two years as a part-time student. No matter which pathway you choose, you'll get career support at JMU.
Highlights
- Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Career planning support
Know Before You Apply
- Takes 1-2 years to complete
- Asynchronous learning
$11,520
$28,320
90%
22,760
Public
Yes
$7,914
$25,128
Harrisonburg, VA4 yearCampus + Online
$7,914
$25,128
76%
30%
$11,520
$28,320
90%
22,760
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The online RN-to-BSN program at James Madison University offers all classes asynchronously, so you can balance your coursework with your career. Learning from expert faculty, you'll study in small classes in a creative learning environment.
You'll build on the skills you gained in your associate or diploma program, developing a foundation for professional nursing practice.
You can choose to complete the program in one year as a full-time student or two years as a part-time student. No matter which pathway you choose, you'll get career support at JMU.
Highlights
- Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Career planning support
Know Before You Apply
- Takes 1-2 years to complete
- Asynchronous learning
Clemson University
Clemson, SC4 yearCampus + Online
$14,118
$37,982
38%
44%
Why We Chose This School
Clemson University offers an RNBS completion program for registered nurses with an associate degree who want to earn a bachelor's in nursing. Offered fully online, this program only takes 12 months to complete.
You'll take coursework in community and pathophysiology, issues in professionalism, family nursing in the community, research in nursing, and leadership and management. These classes foster intellectual curiosity, interdisciplinary collegiality, ethical decision-making, and critical thinking.
The school offers several scholarship opportunities, including awards for oncology nurses, underrepresented nursing students, and outstanding nursing students.
Highlights
- Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Scholarships available
Know Before You Apply
- Requires 2.75 GPA
- Designed for registered nurses
- Costs $1,000 per semester
$10,858
$22,566
93%
28,747
Public
Yes
$14,118
$37,982
Clemson, SC4 yearCampus + Online
$14,118
$37,982
38%
44%
$10,858
$22,566
93%
28,747
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
Clemson University offers an RNBS completion program for registered nurses with an associate degree who want to earn a bachelor's in nursing. Offered fully online, this program only takes 12 months to complete.
You'll take coursework in community and pathophysiology, issues in professionalism, family nursing in the community, research in nursing, and leadership and management. These classes foster intellectual curiosity, interdisciplinary collegiality, ethical decision-making, and critical thinking.
The school offers several scholarship opportunities, including awards for oncology nurses, underrepresented nursing students, and outstanding nursing students.
Highlights
- Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Scholarships available
Know Before You Apply
- Requires 2.75 GPA
- Designed for registered nurses
- Costs $1,000 per semester
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$6,368
$22,467
43%
9%
Why We Chose This School
University of Central Florida's online nursing bachelor's program focuses on clinical nursing practice and health promotion maintenance, preparing you for leadership roles in nursing.
Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), this program offers a post-licensure RN-to-BSN track designed for registered nurses.
The length of time you'll spend in this program depends on how many classes you choose to take each term. However, you can complete 30 credit hours in as few as three semesters or up to 10 semesters.
Highlights
- CCNE-accredited
- Designed for working nurses
Know Before You Apply
- 120 credits
- In-state students pay $179 per credit
- Out-of-state students pay $716 per credit
$6,916
$25,759
92%
68,842
Public
Yes
$6,368
$22,467
Orlando, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$6,368
$22,467
43%
9%
$6,916
$25,759
92%
68,842
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
University of Central Florida's online nursing bachelor's program focuses on clinical nursing practice and health promotion maintenance, preparing you for leadership roles in nursing.
Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), this program offers a post-licensure RN-to-BSN track designed for registered nurses.
The length of time you'll spend in this program depends on how many classes you choose to take each term. However, you can complete 30 credit hours in as few as three semesters or up to 10 semesters.
Highlights
- CCNE-accredited
- Designed for working nurses
Know Before You Apply
- 120 credits
- In-state students pay $179 per credit
- Out-of-state students pay $716 per credit
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, UT4 yearCampus + Online
$9,103
$31,861
87%
55%
Why We Chose This School
The University of Utah's online RN-to-BS program offers an affordable, flexible program you can choose to complete within two, three, or four semesters. The program only costs around $9,000 or $260 per credit hour.
All coursework is online, so you won't have to worry about going to campus or pausing your career. Coursework includes health promotion, public health, enhanced professional nursing, and nursing initiatives.
Expert faculty will teach nursing research and evidence-based practices through community-engaged learning. The program is adaptable, allowing you to either complete a specialization in geriatric nursing leadership or prepare to apply to graduate programs.
Highlights
- Flexible and adaptable
- Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Know Before You Apply
- Costs $9,000
- Requires 45 clinical hours and 68 practicum hours
$7,353
$25,961
85%
35,262
Public
Yes
$9,103
$31,861
Salt Lake City, UT4 yearCampus + Online
$9,103
$31,861
87%
55%
$7,353
$25,961
85%
35,262
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The University of Utah's online RN-to-BS program offers an affordable, flexible program you can choose to complete within two, three, or four semesters. The program only costs around $9,000 or $260 per credit hour.
All coursework is online, so you won't have to worry about going to campus or pausing your career. Coursework includes health promotion, public health, enhanced professional nursing, and nursing initiatives.
Expert faculty will teach nursing research and evidence-based practices through community-engaged learning. The program is adaptable, allowing you to either complete a specialization in geriatric nursing leadership or prepare to apply to graduate programs.
Highlights
- Flexible and adaptable
- Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Know Before You Apply
- Costs $9,000
- Requires 45 clinical hours and 68 practicum hours
University of South Carolina-Columbia
Columbia, SC4 yearCampus + Online
$12,288
$34,534
61%
61%
Why We Chose This School
University of South Carolina's RN-to-BSN program offers an interdisciplinary curriculum that includes a capstone practicum. All of this coursework will prepare you for leadership roles in nursing healthcare.
The program is tailored to working registered nurses with busy schedules. Not only will you refine your leadership skills, you'll gain more professional knowledge, learning to contribute to shaping healthcare.
All students have access to academic coaching, peer tutoring, a career center, and other campus resources. You can earn this degree in 12 months.
Highlights
- Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Robust student resources
Know Before You Apply
- Costs $6,144 per semester for state residents
- Costs $17,949 per semester for non-residents
$13,374
$29,760
91%
36,579
Public
Yes
$12,288
$34,534
Columbia, SC4 yearCampus + Online
$12,288
$34,534
61%
61%
$13,374
$29,760
91%
36,579
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
University of South Carolina's RN-to-BSN program offers an interdisciplinary curriculum that includes a capstone practicum. All of this coursework will prepare you for leadership roles in nursing healthcare.
The program is tailored to working registered nurses with busy schedules. Not only will you refine your leadership skills, you'll gain more professional knowledge, learning to contribute to shaping healthcare.
All students have access to academic coaching, peer tutoring, a career center, and other campus resources. You can earn this degree in 12 months.
Highlights
- Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Robust student resources
Know Before You Apply
- Costs $6,144 per semester for state residents
- Costs $17,949 per semester for non-residents
Villanova University
Villanova, PA4 yearCampus + Online
$60,768
$60,768
23%
23%
Why We Chose This School
Villanova University's online RN-to-BSN completion program has earned coveted awards. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), this program is delivered in a state-of-the-art online classroom.
Coursework is delivered via videos through live, interactive online sessions. You'll complete two clinical experiences in nursing leadership in your community.
The program provides career-enhancing credentials. Once you graduate, you'll have new advancement opportunities.
Highlights
- CCNE-accredited
- Award-winning faculty
Know Before You Apply
- Costs $72,494 per academic year
- Live, synchronous class sessions
$21,207
$21,207
96%
10,383
Private
Yes
$60,768
$60,768
Villanova, PA4 yearCampus + Online
$60,768
$60,768
23%
23%
$21,207
$21,207
96%
10,383
Private
Yes
Why We Chose This School
Villanova University's online RN-to-BSN completion program has earned coveted awards. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), this program is delivered in a state-of-the-art online classroom.
Coursework is delivered via videos through live, interactive online sessions. You'll complete two clinical experiences in nursing leadership in your community.
The program provides career-enhancing credentials. Once you graduate, you'll have new advancement opportunities.
Highlights
- CCNE-accredited
- Award-winning faculty
Know Before You Apply
- Costs $72,494 per academic year
- Live, synchronous class sessions
Why You Should Get a BSN
Career Advancement: A BSN opens more opportunities to move into leadership roles within your organization. - Increased earnings: A BSN opens opportunities for leadership roles and specialty positions, often leading to increased earning potential.
- Job security: Having a BSN can boost job security due to the growing demand for nurses with advanced education, especially in settings like Magnet hospitals that prioritize higher degrees.
- Prepare for graduate school: Earning a BSN is a prerequisite for a master of science in nursing (MSN).
- Improved patient outcomes: Research shows that BSN-prepared nurses contribute to lower patient mortality rates, likely due to their additional education and training in evidence-based practice.
Benefits of Getting a BSN Online
- Student perception of the potential return on investment (ROI) of online learning continues to be strong — 93% of all students say their online degree has or will have a positive ROI.
- The majority (97%) of prospective online students, currently enrolled online students, and online program graduates would recommend online education to others.
- Of these students, 81% say that online is better than or equal to on-campus learning.
- Most online program graduates (73%) say their programs prepared them for employment after graduation, and 31% say they were extremely well prepared.
- College and university administrators predict the most online enrollment growth over the next five years will be in health professions (29%).
How to Choose the Best Bachelor’s in Nursing Online Program for You
Before you apply to an online BSN program, it’s important to consider cost, program length, and the jobs and earnings you can expect after you graduate to ensure your program is the best fit for you.
How Much Does a Bachelor’s in Nursing Online Program Cost?
In-State
Avg. Tuition & Fees
$9,752
Avg. Net Price
$5,929
Out-of-State
Avg. Tuition & Fees
$9,209
Avg. Net Price
$6,430
Source: NCES PowerStats
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the typical cost of an online bachelor’s in nursing program is $9,752 for in-state students and $9,209 for out-of-state students.
The average net price, the cost after the school applies financial aid, is $5,929 for in-state students and $6,430 for out-of-state students. This reduction shows just how much financial aid can offset the cost of tuition.
Financial aid includes scholarships and grants. You can get financial aid by applying for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for each year you’re in school.
Find Financial Aid for Your BSN
How Long Does It Take to Get a Bachelor’s in Nursing Degree?
Typical # of Credits
120 Credits
Typical Program Length
4 Years
You can expect to spend four years earning your BSN online if you enroll as a full-time student in a typical program. You can shorten this timeframe by choosing an accelerated program, transferring credits from previous programs, and earning credit for life and work experience. If you’re employed, seek out tuition reimbursement.
What Can You Do With a BSN?
A few jobs you can pursue after you graduate from an online BSN program include registered nurse, nursing instructor, and health services manager. These roles pay well, with health services managers earning the most at $117,960. As an RN, you can earn $93,600. Nursing instructors earn $86,530.
| Job | 2024 Median Annual Salary | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurse | $93,600 | Develops and applies patient care to sick and injured patients. |
| Nursing Assistant and Orderly | $39,530 | Provides basic care to patients, maintains treatment areas. |
| Health Services Manager | $117,960 | Oversees the daily operations of healthcare facilities. |
Learn More About Nursing Jobs
Is an Online BSN Worth It?
Whether an online BSN is worth it depends on your goals and the return on investment (ROI), plus various other factors.
These online programs allow flexible scheduling for busy adults and a potential boost in earnings. Plus, once you graduate, you can apply to graduate nursing programs.
Registered nurses earned over $2,700 more than licensed practical nurses in 2023, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE). A BSN opens doors to leadership roles and serves as a stepping stone toward higher degrees that lead to advanced practice positions.
However, an online BSN program involves high costs and a significant time commitment. You’ll also need to learn how to balance your work, studies, and potential debt. Research program accreditation and National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) pass rates to ensure quality and look for the most affordable programs.
Education Beyond a Bachelor’s in Nursing
After you earn a bachelor’s in nursing online, you can pursue advanced degrees such as a master of science in nursing (MSN) or a doctor of nursing practice (DNP).
These degrees increase your opportunities to work as a nurse educator, professor, or healthcare administrator. Specialty tracts provide advanced training, making you eligible for licensure testing to work as a nurse anesthetist, nurse practitioner, or clinical nurse specialist.
Some of these roles pay six-figure salaries, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), showing that these specialized skills are in demand. Online programs offer flexibility, so they can be ideal for busy professionals.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online BSN Degrees
Absolutely, there are affordable RN-to-BSN programs online. These schools include the University of North Florida, Utah Valley University, and Farmingdale State College. Each program offers flexibility and cost-effective options for busy nurses.
Explore More College Resources
Guide to Online Nursing Programs
Read this guide to online nursing programs to learn about the different types of nursing degrees and specializations.
Updated July 27, 2022
Other Nursing Resources
Nursing
programs