Most Affordable RN-to-BSN Programs of 2023
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- RN-to-BSN programs are designed to help registered nurses advance their careers.
- Getting a bachelor of science in nursing may increase earning potential and job security.
- A bachelor's degree in nursing can lead to careers that pay around $91,000 annually.
Working nurses already have enough to deal with, given their busy schedules and stressful roles. And going back to school for a bachelor's degree? For at least four years? No, thank you.
Thankfully, RN-to-BSN programs exist, so nurses don't need to worry as much. The big advantage of RN-to-BSN programs is that you can finish them quickly.
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?
These programs are designed for registered nurses with an associate degree in nursing (ADN) who want a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). Online RN-to-BSN programs are convenient for working nurses because they provide flexible schedules and workflows.
If you're considering an online RN-to-BSN degree, here's what to do next:
-
Explore this page to make sure this path is the right choice for you. -
Check out the top-ranked online RN-to-BSN programs, as well as our sponsored programs. -
Request more information from the schools you're interested in.
What Is an RN-to-BSN Program?
An RN-to-BSN program is for nurses who want to upgrade their education from an ADN or nursing diploma to a bachelor's degree in nursing. RN-to-BSN programs can be quicker than traditional nursing bachelor's programs and build on skills and knowledge previously learned.
Read More: Understanding the Types of Nursing Degrees
Affordable RN-to-BSN Programs You Should Consider
Is an RN-to-BSN Program Worth It?
If you're a registered nurse, an RN-to-BSN program allows you to earn your nursing bachelor's degree in as little as one year. Doing so advances your skills and expertise, enhances your resume, and increases your job security.
You'll qualify for roles with higher pay, including leadership-level roles. According to January 2023 Payscale data, nurses with a BSN make about $17,000 more each year on average than nurses with an ADN. You can also pursue a master's degree in nursing and further advance your career.
But don't just take our word for it — nurses in the field agree.
"Becoming a registered nurse is 100% worth it. Without a doubt. I honestly couldn't imagine my life without being a nurse. Being a registered nurse has so many benefits. It gives you an amazing sense of purpose, it's fulfilling every single day, and as a nice perk, it pays really well."
— Alaina Ross, RN-to-BSN, Roseman University
Most Affordable RN-to-BSN Programs
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.
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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 | 93.42%
On-Campus Requirements | No
Program Accreditation | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
The accelerated online RN-to-BSN program offered by The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley offers an accredited nursing education that takes 12 months to complete. UTRGV's 30-credit program offers multiple start dates throughout the year, with each class lasting seven weeks.
You can expect to take classes in pathophysiology, pharmacology, and community health. Admission requirements include official transcripts, an active registered nurse license, and a minimum 2.5 GPA.
Florida International University
Miami, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $229
Out of State | $346
Credits to Graduate
33
Program Information
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate | 88%
On-Campus Requirements | No
Program Accreditation | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Earning an online RN-to-BSN at Florida International University only requires three semesters of classes — making it an accelerated option. You can start FIU's program at the beginning of any semester, so you can fit classes around work requirements. You'll need to take classes in psychosocial nursing, adult physiological nursing, and evidence-based nursing and research.
Admission requirements include at least a 2.75 GPA, official transcripts, and an active and unencumbered Florida RN license.
Texas A & M International University
Laredo, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $281
Out of State | $769
Credits to Graduate
32
Program Information
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate | 86.14%
On-Campus Requirements | No
Program Accreditation | Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Offering four start dates each year, Texas A&M International University's online RN-to-BSN program gives you as much flexibility as you need. During the 12 months needed to complete all coursework, you'll study topics such as nursing research, cultural determinants of health behavior, and global health nursing.
Admission to TAMIU's nursing program requires a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA and an unencumbered Texas RN license.
Farmingdale State College
Farmingdale, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Semester
In State | $3,535
Out of State | $8,490
Credits to Graduate
34
Program Information
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate | 98%
On-Campus Requirements | No
Program Accreditation | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Farmingdale State College's online RN-to-BSN program provides the training you need to take your career to the next level. Farmingdale State's nursing program focuses on topics such as community care, health promotion and patient education, and advocacy as a nurse.
You should hold a 3.0 GPA or higher and an active RN license in the state where you reside. You must also submit official transcripts.
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, UT - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $260
Out of State | $260
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate | 82.48%
On-Campus Requirements | No
Program Accreditation | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
If you need flexibility, the University of Utah has you covered. Offering two-, three-, and four-semester tracks, UVU's fully online RN-to-BSN program can work with varied scheduling needs. You'll take courses in health promotion, evidence-based practice, nursing initiatives, and public health.
Admission requirements include official transcripts demonstrating a 3.0 GPA or higher. You must show evidence of service to others and provide two professional references. And you need an active RN license issued by 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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University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $180
Out of State | $715
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate | 97%
On-Campus Requirements | No
Program Accreditation | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
The University of Central Florida's completely online RN-to-BSN program allows you to start any semester and finish the program within five semesters. You'll take classes in public and community health nursing and health promotion across the lifespan. Another course covers pathophysiology for nursing practice.
To apply, you must complete a general undergraduate admissions application. You must also send a copy of a valid RN license. The school makes admission decisions on a rolling basis.
Indiana University-Northwest
Gary, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $350
Out of State | $455
Credits to Graduate
34-35
Program Information
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate | 100%
On-Campus Requirements | No
Program Accreditation | Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Indiana University's Northwest campus offers an online RN-to-BSN program that you can complete in 12, 18, or 24 months. Professors teach classes in six-week modules, adding flexibility for working RNs. Topics covered include health policy and community health, healthcare ethics, and data analysis.
To apply to IUN's nursing program you must provide a completed general undergraduate application and a copy of your active RN license.
Chipola College
Marianna, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Courses
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $115
Out of State | $309
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate | 64%
On-Campus Requirements | No
Program Accreditation | Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Chipola College currently provides full-time programs lasting three semesters and part-time programs lasting five semesters. Regardless of the schedule you select, you can plan to take courses in legal and ethical issues in nursing practice and multicultural practice. You'll also study nursing and the healthcare system.
Chipola College's RN-to-BSN application requirements include a minimum 2.5 GPA and completion of all prerequisites. You must also hold a valid RN license in Florida, Georgia, or Alabama.
Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Program Format 100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $203
Out of State | $722
Credits to Graduate
32
Program Information
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate | 90.25%
On-Campus Requirements | No
Program Accreditation | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Florida Atlantic University's online RN-to-BSN offers a flexible schedule, allowing you to graduate in 3-6 semesters. FAU's nursing program includes courses such as foundations of care in nursing situations, creating healing environments, and health assessment in nursing situations. You'll also analyze evidence-based nursing practices.
Admission requirements include a completed application and a federal background check with fingerprinting. You must provide official transcripts and proof of an active RN license.
Appalachian State University
Boone, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Program Format 100% Online | Asynchronous Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $203
Out of State | $807
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate | 95%
On-Campus Requirements | No
Program Accreditation | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
The fully online RN-to-BSN program provided by Appalachian State University takes 1-3 years to complete, depending on whether you pursue a part-time or full-time schedule. ASU's nursing program covers classes in nursing care of older adults, nursing informatics, and health assessment. You'll also learn about nursing research.
Admission requirements include an active and unencumbered RN license in North Carolina or a compact state. You also need a 2.5 GPA or higher and an official transcript from a regionally accredited institution.
How Much Does an RN-to-BSN Program Cost?
BestColleges research shows the total cost of an RN-to-BSN program may range from $56,000-$112,000 as of the 2019-2020 school year. But total costs depend on whether you attend a public or private school.
Some programs may be cheaper or more expensive, though. Either way, you don't need to pay for it alone. For example, you can use nursing scholarships to help pay for the program.
Average Annual Tuition Cost of a Bachelor's Degree | 2020-21
Public Institution
$9,375
Private Institution
$32,825
Total Average Net Cost of Four Years of College | 2020-21
Public Institution
$56,000
Private Institution (Nonprofit)
$112,000
Read More: How Much Does an Online College Cost?
How Can You Pay for an RN-to-BSN Program?
You can pay for an RN-to-BSN program in many ways. Some options, like grants, provide free money you won't need to pay back later. Others, such as student loans and federal student aid, provide financial assistance that come with interest rates.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
You should fill out the FAFSA each year, which helps the government determine if you qualify for federal aid. The FAFSA calculates your eligibility for aid based on factors like financial need and family contribution. You can receive help through federal loans, grants, and work-study programs.
Loans
Student loans let you pay for your education by borrowing money and paying it back later. You can apply for several federal loans, including subsidized and unsubsidized Stafford Loans, PLUS Loans, and Direct Consolidation Loans. You can apply for private loans, too, but these often have much higher interest rates.
Grants
Grants provide you with free money for college. Qualifications differ for each grant. Some grants come from the government, but you can also receive grants from colleges or other sources.
Work-Study Programs
You can qualify for the Federal Work-Study Program if you earn less than a certain income threshold. Work-study programs allow you to work on campus or in your community, sometimes in roles related to your field of study. You can use the money you earn from these jobs however you see fit.
Scholarships
You can find several nursing scholarships from nonprofits, companies, and community organizations. Your college or university may offer scholarships specifically for nurses, too. Many scholarships are merit-based and depend on your past academic achievements.
What Can You Do With an Online RN-to-BSN Degree?
With an RN-to-BSN degree, you'll qualify for many new jobs thanks to your higher status. For example, you can apply for leadership positions like clinical director or nursing manager, which feature higher average pay and better long-term earning potential.
| Jobs | Average Annual Salary (Jan. 2023) |
|---|---|
| Registered Nurse | $70,450 |
| Nurse Case Manager | $76,690 |
| Clinical Nurse Manager | $86,430 |
| Nursing Director | $88,520 |
| Nursing Manager | $91,520 |
"I am a huge proponent of getting an RN-to-BSN degree, having done it myself. For one, on a personal level, getting your BSN will bolster your resume and provide increased job security (not that RN's currently need it given the nurse shortage)."
— Alaina R.
Read More: Should I Go to Nursing School or Get an MBA in Healthcare?
How Much Money Will You Make With a Bachelor's in Nursing?
Average Base Salary, BSN, Nursing
$91,000
Average Base Salary, Clinical Nurse Manager
$86,430
Source: Payscale
How Long Does an RN-to-BSN Program Take?
For full-time students, an RN-to-BSN usually takes about two academic years to finish. You may find accelerated RN-to-BSN programs that allow you to graduate faster. But part-time programs give you more time to earn your degree and provide you with more flexibility.
Pro tip: Working nurses often consider an online RN-to-BSN program. Earning a degree online allows you to complete your coursework from your home on your time. You don't need to fit commutes to campus into your already demanding schedule.
Required Course Credits*
30-45 credits
Field Study Requirements (Y/N)
Yes
*Varies depending on your school/program
Common Nursing Certifications
For RNs who wish to work in a specialized area, earning certification in addition to a bachelor's degree can lead to more opportunities. Although not all nurses need certification, extra credentials show your expertise in certain areas, like pediatrics or acute care.
The American Nurses Association offers several certifications, but you can also find credentials from other professional associations. Certification requirements differ, but often include meeting a certain experience threshold and taking an exam.
Common certifications include:
- Certified Emergency Nurse: People with this certification often work in emergency rooms.
- Oncology Certified Nurse: These nurses care for patients with cancer.
- Orthopedic Nurse Certification: This certification can benefit nurses who work with doctors specializing in the musculoskeletal system.
- Informatics Nursing Certification: Nurses who work with patient documentation and data and want to specialize in healthcare information systems may benefit from pursuing this certification.
Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Nursing Programs.
Everything Else You Need to Know About RN-to-BSN Programs
How do you choose an online RN-to-BSN program?
You should choose a program that meets your expectations or needs, using the following factors:
- Cost
- Program Format
- Location
- Accreditation
- Clinical Experience
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate
What is the fastest RN-to-BSN online program?
Although many RN-to-BSN programs last two years for full-time students, some schools offer accelerated programs. These pathways may allow you to graduate in just 12 months.
What type of RN makes the most money?
According to Payscale, nursing managers are among the highest-paying RN positions. Nursing managers earn an average annual salary of $91,520 as of January 2023. Payscale also reports that nurse administrators earn an average of $91,350 per year. Generally, RNs in leadership positions tend to have the highest average salaries.
What are the highest-paying jobs you can get with a BSN?
Nursing director, nursing manager, and clinical director are some of the highest-paying jobs you can get with a BSN. Each of these positions earns an average salary of nearly $90,000 and pays up to about $120,000. However, higher salaries usually come from years of experience.
