Best Online Bachelor’s in Nursing Programs of 2023
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- Nurses with a BSN degree have access to better opportunities and better salaries.
- An online BSN program can allow you to balance work, family, and school.
- Online BSN programs can help you save money on transportation costs and on-campus fees.
- Demand for professional, skilled nurses is projected to rise over the next decade.
Nurses have some of the lowest unemployment rates in the country. They have a recession-proof skillset. Their work improves the lives and well-being of others. On top of that, the median salary for nurses was over $30,000 higher than the national median salary in 2021, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
These are all reasons to consider enrolling in an online bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program as soon as you can.
BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
"Getting a BSN is all about your career goals," said Brian Clark, BSN, MSNA. "If you want to climb the ladder at your hospital, get a master's degree, or pursue leadership roles — then getting a BSN is a must."
Here's how to get started:
- Explore this page to determine whether a nursing degree is the right choice for you.
- Check out the top-ranked online bachelor's in nursing programs as well as our sponsored programs.
- Request more information from schools you're interested in to find the best fit.
What Can You Do With a Bachelor's in Nursing (BSN) Degree?
With an online BSN, you can work as a registered nurse in hospitals, clinics, schools, and government agencies. You can specialize in an area of practice that interests you — like pediatrics, psychiatry, surgery, critical care, or health informatics (to name just a few).
You can also leverage your BSN into non-bedside roles, like hospital administration or consulting. Or you can use it as a stepping stone into a master of science in nursing (MSN) program.
"Working at the bedside doing direct patient care in a hospital is not the only way to nurse!" said Joanna Briggs, RN, BSN. "My favorite part about this job is the flexibility — you have a lot of options."
Check Out These BestColleges Sponsored Online Nursing Programs
Should I Get a Nursing (BSN) Degree?
A nursing program could be a good fit if:
- You want a career helping others
- You are looking to develop an in-demand skillset
- You have strong problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills
Nurses who hold an associate degree in nursing (ADN) will find there are several benefits to getting a BSN as well.
Benefits of a Bachelor's in Nursing
- Career Advancement: With this degree, you can move into advanced nursing practice or leadership positions.
- Increased earning potential: Nurses with BSNs tend to make more money than nurses with ADNs.
- Better job prospects: Many employers now require (or strongly prefer) nurses with BSNs.
- Better patient outcomes: BSN programs provide nurses with a broader education and can help them build more advanced problem-solving skills that lead to better care.
Reasons to Get Your Nursing Degree Online
- Save money: Online degrees can save you money on on-campus fees, commuting, room, and board. In some cases, tuition is less expensive online than in person.
- Manage your time: The flexibility of online scheduling allows you to fit school around your life instead of the other way around.
- Reduce opportunity costs: As an online student, you won't have to press pause on earning money or developing professionally while you pursue a degree.
Is a Bachelor's in Nursing (BSN) Degree Worth It?
Whether a BSN is worth it depends on your goals — but generally, the answer is yes.
If you want to increase your earning potential, be a more informed and highly trained healthcare provider, pursue advanced practice nursing positions, or have the freedom to move around and go after better opportunities, a BSN will be worth it.
On the other hand, pursuing this degree involves a significant time and financial commitment, and not everyone who wants a career in nursing will need a BSN to accomplish their professional goals.
"My BSN allowed me to achieve my career goals and earn more money while gaining experience in a high-stress environment that pushed me to develop emotional intelligence, empathy, and decision-making skills."
— Brian Clark, BSN, MSNA
"My BSN was worth it — I was able to complete it in only 16 months because I already had a four-year degree in another area. I would tell anyone considering a BSN that nursing is meaningful and hard work. The valuable skills you learn will translate into every area of your life."
— Joanna Briggs, RN, BSN
How Much Money Can I Make With a Bachelor's in Nursing?
Median annual wage for registered nurses
$77,600
According to the BLS, registered nurses earned a median annual wage of $77,600 in May 2021. However, you should research state- and county-specific data, as earning potential varies by location.
You may also want to explore top-paying industries. For instance, the average salary for nurses in the pharmaceutical industry was $105,270 during the same period.
Transactional: What Are the Best Online Bachelor's in Nursing Programs of 2023?
Rankings compiled by the BestColleges Ranking Team
How We Rank Schools
At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We want to help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.
Our rankings are grounded in a few guiding principles and use the latest statistical data available from trusted sources. Read our ranking methodology. We hope our approach helps you find the school that is best for you.
University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Little Rock, AR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $280
Out of State | $280
Credits to Graduate
121
Program Information
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate | 82.9%
On-Campus Requirements | No
Program Accreditation | Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
You can complete an accelerated online degree in nursing at UA Little Rock. The RN-to-BSN program takes 12-18 months, depending on transfer credits. You'll study health assessment while building leadership and advocacy skills.
Ready to apply? You'll need a current RN license, or you must have recently graduated from an associate or diploma RN program. If you're a recent graduate, you must submit your NCLEX-RN test date and temporary license. The Department of Nursing offers academic advising for incoming students.
Franklin University
Columbus, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Primarily Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $298
Out of State | $298
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate | N/A
On-Campus Requirements | No
Program Accreditation | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
At Franklin, you can earn a bachelor's degree in nursing at a more affordable tuition rate. The online RN-to-BSN program offers an accelerated course schedule to help nurses graduate fast. You'll strengthen leadership and clinical skills during the program. Hands-on simulations build practical experience.
You can apply with an associate degree or diploma in nursing. Franklin allows up to 90 transfer credits, and incoming students can apply an average of 74 credits to the BSN program. You'll also need a current RN license.
Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis
Indianapolis, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $350
Out of State | $455
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate | 91.3%
On-Campus Requirements | No
Program Accreditation | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
IU Online connects you with programs offered at multiple Indiana University campuses, including IUPUI. The online RN-to-BSN program helps registered nurses gain leadership skills. During the program, you'll complete practicum requirements tailored to your career goals.
You need an associate of science in nursing or a nursing diploma with a minimum 2.5 GPA to apply. The program also requires a valid RN license and a criminal background check.
Campbellsville University
Campbellsville, KY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $335
Out of State | $335
Credits to Graduate
123
Program Information
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate | 78%
On-Campus Requirements | No
Program Accreditation | Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
In Campbellsville's online program, you can study gerontology nursing, nursing informatics, and community health nursing. The RN-to-BSN program helps you advance your nursing training while also offering guided electives to specialize your knowledge. You'll also gain leadership skills during your online nursing classes.
The program admits nurses with an active RN license. You'll also need to provide official transcripts to receive transfer credits. The program may also admit you if you're a current associate degree in nursing student or in the process of receiving an RN license.
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $330
Out of State | $330
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate | 96%
On-Campus Requirements | No
Program Accreditation | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Liberty's online nursing degree offers a one-year path to a BSN. In the online RN-to-BSN program, you'll receive at least 39 credits for your RN degree. You can complete the remaining credits by transferring associate degree or nursing diploma credits and then taking online BSN courses.
For admission, you must hold a minimum 2.0 GPA. The program also requires proof of an RN license. Check the licensure and certification requirements to see if Liberty's program is available in your state.
BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
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Touro University Nevada
Henderson, NV - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $280
Out of State | $280
Credits to Graduate
36
Program Information
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate | 72%
On-Campus Requirements | No
Program Accreditation | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
You can finish a BSN in one year through Touro University Nevada's online program. Designed for working nurses, the RN-to-BSN program offers more affordable tuition rates with no travel requirements. The university also partners with the Valley Health System to cover tuition for employees.
You'll need an associate degree in nursing from an accredited school to enroll in the program. You'll also need an active RN license in the state where you plan to practice. The program is available to U.S. citizens and permanent residents.
Southeastern Louisiana University
Hammond, LA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $306
Out of State | $306
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate | 94.2%
On-Campus Requirements | No
Program Accreditation | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
When you earn your bachelor's in nursing degree at Southeastern, you can work directly with a faculty coach. The online RN-to-BSN program helps busy nurses earn their degree. The program focuses on one-on-one attention, with advisors to offer guidance on admission, registration, and academics.
You'll complete courses on eight-week terms, and the school offers three start dates each year. To apply, you'll need an accredited associate degree or nursing diploma plus a minimum 2.5 GPA. The program also requires a valid RN license.
Lewis University
Romeoville, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online and Hybrid | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $456-$625
Out of State | $456-$625
Credits to Graduate
128-131
Program Information
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate | 97%
On-Campus Requirements | Yes
Program Accreditation | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Find the path that fits your circumstances in Lewis's online nursing programs. You can choose between bachelor's in nursing programs like the RN-to-BSN program or an accelerated BSN if you already hold a bachelor's degree in a different major. Lewis also offers fully online or hybrid options.
For the RN-to-BSN program, you'll need a minimum 2.5 GPA, while the accelerated BSN requires at least a 2.75 GPA. The RN-to-BSN program is for Illinois licensed nurses who graduated from a state-approved diploma or associate degree program.
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $278
Out of State | $278
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate | 93.4%
On-Campus Requirements | No
Program Accreditation | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Thanks to its more affordable tuition rate, UTRGV stands out for nurses seeking a bachelor's in nursing degree. The online RN-to-BSN program builds management skills and evidence-based knowledge.
You'll study nursing leadership theories while taking classes in an online, accelerated format. You can apply to the program by submitting official transcripts showing a minimum 2.5 GPA. You'll also need to be a registered nurse or hold a temporary state permit.
University of North Florida
Jacksonville, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $243
Out of State | $243
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate | 88%
On-Campus Requirements | No
Program Accreditation | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
If you're an RN seeking a bachelor's degree, you can earn your BSN online at UNF. The RN-to-BSN program blends individualized attention with online technology to help you advance as a nurse. You'll enroll in an online cohort and complete courses on eight-week terms.
UNF prioritizes community building and provides opportunities to work with vulnerable populations. You can complete community experience hours at local public health organizations, hospital outreach programs, nonprofits, or homeless shelters.
You do not need work experience to enroll in the program. But you'll need an active RN license in your state and a minimum 2.7 GPA to apply.
How to Get Into an Online Nursing (BSN) Program: Admission Requirements
BSN programs do not require prerequisites or experience outside of a high school diploma or GED certificate, but you may need to complete general education courses before applying to a BSN program. Read on to learn more about the admission requirements for BSN programs.
Minimum GPA
BSN programs generally require a minimum GPA for admission since universities want to ensure you can succeed. Some universities may accept a lower GPA if you achieve a higher score on standardized exams.
SAT/ACT
BSN programs usually require you to submit SAT or ACT scores. Schools may accept lower scores if you have a high GPA. If schools accept both standardized exams, you should submit your best score.
Prior Coursework/Fieldwork
An online bachelor's in nursing begins with general education requirements, which you must complete before taking upper-level nursing courses. You may also need to complete work or volunteer hours in approved medical settings.
Letters of Recommendation
Colleges and universities typically require letters of recommendation in order to examine your character. If you're applying right out of high school, you can ask teachers or counselors for letters. If you have work or college experience, you may want to consider asking employers or professors who can speak to who you are.
Screening
Online bachelor's in nursing programs require you to complete multiple field experiences during the latter portion of the program. Because of this, schools must ensure you are able to safely participate in such experiences. Universities often require you to obtain immunization and drug screening prior to admission, as well as a criminal background check.
How Much Does a Nursing (BSN) Degree Cost?
The cost of a BSN can vary a good deal depending on the school, program, and location that you choose. As a general rule online, in-state, public schools will give you the best bang for your buck.
Average Annual Tuition Cost of a Bachelor's Degree
Public Institution
$9,375
Private Institution
$32,825
Total Average Net Cost of Four Years of College
Public Institution
$56,000
Private Institution (Nonprofit)
$112,000
Be sure to prioritize schools that offer strong financial aid packages. Scholarships and grant-based packages are the best because you don't have to pay that money back.
Many scholarships and grants are nursing and healthcare-student specific.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Bachelor's (BSN) in Nursing?
On average, you can complete a bachelor's in nursing in four years if you attend full time. If you already hold an ADN, you may qualify for accelerated programs. These programs typically take about two years to complete.
Required Course Credits
120 credits*
Field Study Requirements
Yes
*Depending on your program and specialization
Bachelor's in Nursing (BSN) Career Paths
You can earn an RN license at the associate degree level. However, a BSN allows you to apply for higher-level roles, such as nurse manager, quality assurance coordinator, and case management nurse.
Alternative career paths include nurse health coach, legal nurse consultant, and public health nurse. Once you gain experience, you may go on to earn an advanced nursing degree that leads to leadership roles and higher salaries. Advanced degrees require an additional license.
Still looking for the right fit? You might also like:
Everything Else You Need to Know About Nursing Degrees
What classes are required for a BSN degree?
BSN programs emphasize evidence-based nursing practices, critical thinking, application of nurse theory, and effective communication. Core subjects include physiology and anatomy, statistics, psychology, nursing theory, and nutrition. Each program is different but you can expect a variation of the following courses:
- Pathophysiology
- Methods for evidence-based practice
- Microbiology
- Human anatomy and physiology
- Nursing care of mental health patients
- Pharmacology
- Health assessment
Do you need a BSN to become a registered nurse?
No. You can acquire an RN license with an associate degree. However, a BSN can help you gain access to better pay, exclusive job opportunities, and programs that develop your knowledge and skills in depth.
Can you get a BSN without an ADN?
Yes! Many BSN programs do not require previous experience. In those programs, you typically need to complete general coursework requirements before admittance into the nursing program.
Other schools offer BSN programs for people with degrees in unrelated fields who are looking to change careers.
What can you expect from a nursing program?
In addition to coursework, this degree requires laboratory work and hands-on clinical experiences at patient care facilities. Other tasks may include conducting research independently or in groups.
At the end of the program, students must prepare to pass the National Council of State Boards of Nursing NCLEX-RN exam.
