Cheapest RN-to-BSN Online Programs of 2024

Evan Thompson
By
Updated on April 11, 2024
Edited by
Reviewed by
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Registered nurses can boost their careers by enrolling in RN-to-BSN programs. Explore this page to find out how much they cost and if they’re worth it.
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Best Affordable Online RN-to-BSN Programs

RN-to-BSN programs are designed for registered nurses with an associate degree in nursing (ADN) who want to earn a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). Online RN-to-BSN programs are convenient for many working nurses because they provide flexible schedules. Another big advantage of RN-to-BSN online programs is that you can finish them quickly.

If you’re considering an online RN-to-BSN degree, explore this page to make sure this path is the right choice for you. Then, check out the top-ranked cheapest RN-to-BSN online programs and our sponsored programs.

Popular Affordable RN-to-BSN Online Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

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Cheapest Accredited RN-to-BSN Online Programs

#1 Cheapest RN-to-BSN Online Programs of 2024

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

  • Location-markerEdinburg, TX
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$7,857
  • Out-of-state$17,649
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$7,002
  • Out-of-state$14,346
  • Retention Rate72%
  • Acceptance Rate94%
  • Students Enrolled31,940
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment78%
  • AccreditationYes
#2 Cheapest RN-to-BSN Online Programs of 2024

California State University-Dominguez Hills

  • Location-markerCarson, CA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$5,742
  • Out-of-state$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$7,176
  • Out-of-state$16,680
  • Retention Rate70%
  • Acceptance Rate90%
  • Students Enrolled17,837
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment94%
  • AccreditationYes
#3 Cheapest RN-to-BSN Online Programs of 2024

Farmingdale State College

  • Location-markerFarmingdale, NY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$7,070
  • Out-of-state$16,980
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$9,538
  • Out-of-state$18,778
  • Retention Rate80%
  • Acceptance Rate73%
  • Students Enrolled9,348
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment65%
  • AccreditationYes
#4 Cheapest RN-to-BSN Online Programs of 2024

California State University-Stanislaus

  • Location-markerTurlock, CA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$5,742
  • Out-of-state$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$7,176
  • Out-of-state$16,680
  • Retention Rate79%
  • Acceptance Rate95%
  • Students Enrolled10,481
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment92%
  • AccreditationYes
#5 Cheapest RN-to-BSN Online Programs of 2024

University of North Florida

  • Location-markerJacksonville, FL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$3,996
  • Out-of-state$16,799
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$8,570
  • Out-of-state$19,585
  • Retention Rate79%
  • Acceptance Rate77%
  • Students Enrolled16,594
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment77%
  • AccreditationYes
#6 Cheapest RN-to-BSN Online Programs of 2024

Texas A&M International University

  • Location-markerLaredo, TX
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$3,818
  • Out-of-state$13,610
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$3,350
  • Out-of-state$10,694
  • Retention Rate74%
  • Acceptance Rate54%
  • Students Enrolled8,455
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment62%
  • AccreditationYes
#7 Cheapest RN-to-BSN Online Programs of 2024

University of Florida-Online

  • Location-markerGainesville, FL
  • 4 year
  • Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$3,358
  • Out-of-state$15,000
  • Retention Rate91%
  • Acceptance Rate66%
  • Students Enrolled5,168
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment0%
  • AccreditationYes
#8 Cheapest RN-to-BSN Online Programs of 2024

CUNY Lehman College

  • Location-markerBronx, NY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$6,930
  • Out-of-state$14,880
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$11,090
  • Out-of-state$20,520
  • Retention Rate74%
  • Acceptance Rate58%
  • Students Enrolled14,392
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment96%
  • AccreditationYes
#9 Cheapest RN-to-BSN Online Programs of 2024

Utah Valley University

  • Location-markerOrem, UT
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$5,368
  • Out-of-state$16,450
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$8,773
  • Out-of-state$21,461
  • Retention Rate66%
  • Acceptance Rate0%
  • Students Enrolled41,262
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment56%
  • AccreditationYes
#10 Cheapest RN-to-BSN Online Programs of 2024

University of Wisconsin-Madison

  • Location-markerMadison, WI
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$9,273
  • Out-of-state$37,161
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$10,728
  • Out-of-state$24,054
  • Retention Rate95%
  • Acceptance Rate60%
  • Students Enrolled47,016
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment27%
  • AccreditationYes

Is an RN-to-BSN Online Program Worth It?

An RN-to-BSN program allows you to earn your nursing bachelor’s degree in as little as one year. RN-to-BSN online programs can be quicker than traditional nursing bachelor’s programs and build on your existing skills and knowledge. Earning a BSN can also enhance your resume and increase your job security.

You may qualify for roles with higher pay, including some leadership-level roles. According to April 2024 Payscale data, nurses with a BSN make an average of $17,000 more each year than nurses with only an ADN. With a bachelor’s degree, you can also pursue a master’s degree in nursing to advance your career further.

But don’t just take our word for it — nurses in the field agree.

“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 Ross, RN-to-BSN, Roseman University

Read More:Understanding the Types of Nursing Degreesarrow-right

How Much Does an RN-to-BSN Online Program Cost?

The total cost of an RN-to-BSN online program varies depending on factors like whether you attend a public or private school, your state residency status, and the types of fees that are required in your program. The cheapest RR-to-BSN online programs can also help you save on room and board, on-campus fees, and transportation costs.

However, regardless of your chosen nursing program’s cost, you don’t need to pay for it alone. For example, you can apply for nursing scholarships to help pay for your program.

Average Annual Tuition Cost of a Bachelor’s Degree | 2021-22

Public Institution (In-State)

$9,596

Private Institution (Nonprofit)

$34,041

Source: National Center for Education Statistics

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, provide financial assistance that must be paid back later — often with interest.

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

You should fill out the FAFSA each year to determine whether you qualify for federal aid. The FAFSA calculates your eligibility for aid based on factors like financial need and expected 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 types of 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 type of 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 — often 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 offered by 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 can qualify for many new jobs thanks to your higher status. For example, you may be able to apply for certain leadership positions that feature higher average pay and better long-term earning potential.

Read More:Should I Go to Nursing School or Get an MBA in Healthcare?arrow-right

How Much Money Will You Make With a Bachelor’s in Nursing?

Average Base Salary, BSN, Nursing

$94,000

Source: Payscale, April 2024

Average Base Salary, Clinical Nurse Manager

$89,470

Source: Payscale, April 2024

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. Alternatively, part-time programs take longer but can provide you with more flexibility.

Pro tip: Working nurses often consider online RN-to-BSN programs. Earning a degree online allows you to complete your coursework from home. You don’t need to fit commutes to campus into your already demanding schedule.

Required Course Credits

30-45 credits*

Field Study Requirements

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 help demonstrate 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 passing an exam.

Common Certifications

Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Nursing Programs.

Everything Else You Need to Know About the Cheapest RN-to-BSN Online Programs

You should choose a program that meets your expectations and needs. Consider the following factors when looking at schools:

  • Cost
  • Program Format
  • Location
  • Accreditation
  • Clinical Experience Requirements
  • Program’s NCLEX-RN Pass Rate

Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed February 3, 2023.

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