There’s probably no other profession that undergoes as many changes, as quickly, as healthcare. Technologies change rapidly, new discoveries and research require adapting to change, leadership in healthcare has become paramount and the need for qualified professionals is at an all time high.
Registered nurses are at the forefront of these changes and the ability to embrace the changes is becoming increasingly important; and, clinical research in best outcomes and evidence-based nursing is becoming the new standard. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that demand for nursing careers will be nearly 20% over the next decade, with the mean salary range of $66,210 (in 2013) and, with advanced degrees, could increase to the upper 10% of $94,000 annually.
Entry level nursing careers, with either a diploma RN or an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN), are prevalent; but the industry standard is moving towards the Bachelor of Nursing (BSN) degree. In their 2011 report, the Institute of Medicine advisory group, stated that “…Nurses must be prepared to meet diverse patients’ needs; function as leaders; and advance science that benefits patients and the capacity of health professionals to deliver safe, quality patient-centered care.” To meet the demand of currently licensed nurses wanting to further their clinical expertise and advance to leadership roles, many colleges and universities have developed online degree programs.
The American Association of Colleges and Nursing (CCNE) and The Accreditation Commission For Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredits online programs by assessing and identifying programs that engage in effective educational practices. It’s important to find an accredited online program in order to insure that licensure requirements are met and that the education you receive meets nursing standards in your state.
The majority of schools we reviewed require BSN students to take general education courses, such as English Composition, history, algebra, etc., as well as core courses in nursing. The average total number of credits required for a BSN ranges around 120 credit hours, with many schools offering generous transfer policies of previously taken courses or work experience. Be certain to discuss with a school representative whether prior education or work experience will apply towards your degree.
Because of state regulations, some schools are unable to accept students from certain states and it’s important to know if you’ll qualify for admittance into specific programs. Qualified students may also be eligible for either workplace tuition assistance or Federal Student Financial Aid. Check with your Human Resources department for tuition assistance from your employer or talk with the school’s Financial Aid Office to see if you may qualify.
We’ve researched a wide range of online programs, looking at those by estimated cost, length of program and accreditation to help you in your search for an appropriate online program that meets your needs.
#1. University of Wyoming
Located in Laramie, Wyoming, The University of Wyoming through it’s Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing offers a RN/BSN Completion Program designed for the associate degree or diploma RN and is accredited by CCNE. Students enrolling in this program may be required to have a background check before enrollment.
Length of Program: 120 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $119 per credit hour (in-state) ; $334 per credit hour (out-of-state)
Curriculum Snapshot: Scholarly Approaches to Online Learning, Introduction to Baccalaureate Nursing, General Biology, Introductory Chemistry, General Psychology,Cultural Diversity in Family Health Care, Health Assessment for the RN, Health Promotion, Evidence-Based Nursing Practice for the RN
Program Website:University of Wyoming-Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing
#2. East Carolina University
Part of the University of North Carolina educational system, this Greenville, North Carolina based school, was founded in 1907. Offering a liberal arts and natural sciences based curriculum, the RN to BSN option stresses the learning of concepts and principles, as well as the use of the nursing process in caring for individuals, families and groups.State regulations prohibit ECU from accepting students from Alabama, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Maryland and Ohio. The school holds a CCNE accreditation.
Length of Program: 33 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $134 per credit hour (in-state); $207 per credit hour (out-of-state)
Curriculum Snapshot: Nursing Research, Clinical Scholarship, and Evidence Based Practice, Professional Communication in Nursing, Critical Thinking to Facilitate Role Transition: RN to BSN, Community Health Nursing, Nursing Leadership and Finance
Program Website: Eastern Carolina University
#3. Western Carolina University
Located in Cullowhee, NC, Western Carolina University was established in 1889 and provides an online RN to BSN program for working nurses. Students will complete 24 hours of online core Western Carolina University RN to BSN courses and six to eight hours of upper division online WCU electives on a part-time basis within two years. Practicum experience may be conducted in the student’s home area.The program is accredited by CCEN.
Length of Program: 122 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $147.77 per credit hour (in-state); $498.88 per credit hour (out-of-state)
Curriculum Snapshot: Professional Transitions in Nursing, APA Writing Style and Format, Clinical Update for RNs, Community Health Nursing I: Theory, Community Health Nursing III, Community Health Nursing II: Practicum, Nursing Leadership I: Theory, Nursing Leadership II: Practicum, Nursing Leadership III: Intervention Project
Program Website: Western Carolina University
#4. University of Texas at Arlington
Developed for the working nurse, The University of Texas School of Nursing offers their RN to BSN program in collaboration with Academic Partnerships and is accredited by CCNE. Clinical experience can be completed at the student’s work place. The program blends liberal arts study with evidence-based nursing practices. Courses last from 5-10 months.
Length of Program: 35 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $168 per credit hour-General Courses; $257 per credit hour-Nursing Courses; $350 per credit hour-Pre-Nursing Courses
Curriculum Snapshot: Composition I & II, Art Appreciation, Human Anatomy and Physiology I & II, Technical Writing, History of the United States, Holistic Health Assessment Across the Lifespan, Holistic Care of Older Adults, RN to BSN Promoting Healthy Lifestyles, Nursing Leadership & Management
Program Website:University of Texas Arlington
#5. Fort Hays State University
Fort Hays State University in Kansas was founded in 1902 and it’s BSN program holds accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. It’s online programs boasts 5,000 students from every state and 25 foreign countries. Each student is assigned an advisor and the program encourages peer study collaboration.
Length of Program: 124 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $186.50 per credit hour
Curriculum Snapshot: Nursing Transitions, Pathophysiology I, Pathophysiology II, Foundations of Nursing, Health Assessment/Lab, Nursing Inquiry, Nursing Concepts, Population-Focused Care, Health Care Ethics, Health Care Legal Aspects
Program Website: Fort Hays State University
#6. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
This school has been providing online nursing degrees since 1999 and is accredited by AACN. The program does have field experiences where a student will work with a mentor of the student’s choosing on certain projects required to complete course work. The field experience is completed at your place of employment.
Length of Program: 84 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $199 per credit hour (in-state); $615 per credit hour (out-of-state)
Curriculum Snapshot: Psychology, Life Span Human Development, Statistics, Food and Nutrition History of the US to 1877, History of the US since 1877, American Govt Organization, Introduction to Evidence, Nursing Management and Leadership, Nature of Nursing Theory, Issues and Trends in Nursing, Information Systems and Quality Management, Population Focused Community Health, Risk Analysis and Implications for Practice, Baccalaureate Nursing Practice
Program Website: Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
#7. University of Central Florida
Offered 100% online, the University of Central Florida’s RN to BSN program was developed with the working registered nurse in mind. Included in recognition lists of U.S. News and World Report, The Kiplinger Report and the Princeton Review, this program high licensure pass rates.
Length of Program: 30 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $212.28 per credit hour (in-state); $748.89 per credit hour (out-of-state)
Curriculum Snapshot: Dimensions of Professional Practice, Pathophysiology for Nursing Practice Health Assessment & Lab, Nursing Research, Health Care Issues, Policy & Economics, Public and Community Health Nursing, Nursing Elective, Leadership, Management & Role, Health Promotion Across the Lifespan, Community & Public Health Practicum
Program Website: University of Central Florida
#8. Florida International University
Through it’s Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing and Health Sciences (NWCNHS), this CCNE accredited program is specifically designed for Florida residents; however, dependent on state regulations, out-of-state students may qualify for admission. Three (3) Excelsior proficiency exams are required as part of the RN to BSN program.
Length of Program: 120 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $215 per credit hour (in-state); $333 per credit hour (out-of-state)
Curriculum Snapshot: Professional Nursing Leadership:Concepts and Issues, Health Assessment and Promotion, Adult Physiological Nursing, Psychosocial Nursing, Evidence-Based Nursing and Research, Nursing in Global Health Care Systems, Care of Communities: Community Health
Program Website: Florida International University
#9. University of Southern Indiana
Located in Evansville, Indiana, USI offers a RN to BSN degree that is fully accredited by CCNE and is designed for nurses who currently have an associates degree or RN diploma. It includes non-nursing courses, required non-nursing and required nursing courses. Students may qualify for partial or complete validation of courses through current certification or portfolio and testing.
Length of Program: 120 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $221.21 per credit hour (in-state); $532.56 per credit hour (out-of-state)
Curriculum Snapshot: English I & II, Speech, Introduction to psychology, Social science (sociology), Anatomy & Physiology I & II, Chemistry, Health Assessment Credits, Nursing Research Credits, Transition to Advanced Nursing Practice Credits, Community Health Nursing Credits, Professional Nursing and Healthcare Issues Credits, Nursing Management in the Care of Adults Credits
Program Website: University of Southern Indiana
#10. Ohio University
Fully accredited by CCNE and AACN, Ohio University’s RN to BSN degree is offered to students from Ohio, California, Florida, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Pennsylvania, or West Virginia residents. Online nursing classes are 5-weeks long, as are many general education requirements.
Length of Program 120 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $240 per credit hour (in-state); $243 per credit hour (out-of-state)
Curriculum Snapshot: Professional Nursing Practice, Health Assessment and Promotion,bFamily Nursing, Community Health Nursing, Evidence-Based Nursing Practice, Gerontologic Nursing Care, Principles of Human Anatomy and Physiology I, Writing and Rhetoric I, Introduction to Nutrition, General Psychology, Introduction to Sociology
Program Website: Ohio University
#11. Sinclair School of Nursing-University of Missiouri
The length of this program varies, depending on equivalent prerequisite courses completed and choice of part-time or full-time enrollment. Additionally, there is an on-campus requirement for one or two days each semester, making this particular program difficult for students not living close to the university. The program is accredited by CCNE.
Length of Study: 120 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Costs: $276.20 per credit hour
Curriculum Snapshot: Communication and Computer Skills, Role Transitions, Nursing Ethics and Law, Nursing Theory and Research, Health Assessment and Pathophysiology, Nursing Issues/Leadership/Management, Evidence-Based Nursing Practice, Nursing in Communities (90 clinical hours)
Program Websites: Sinclair School of Nursing-University of Missouri
#12. SUNY-Delhi School of Nursing
Founded in 1913, SUNY Delhi is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as one of it’s Best for Online Programs and provides a RN to BSN program specifically designed for the working RN. It’s curriculum is offered 100% online with practicum experiences conducted in the student’s hometown. SUNY Delhi’s Nursing Program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
Length of Program: 58 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $277.43 per credit hour
Curriculum Snapshot: Orientation to Online BSN, Statistics & Research Methods, Transitions to Professional Nursing Practice, Pathophysiology, Ethics in Health Care, Health Assessment, Nursing Research, Health Promotion, Leadership & Management, Teaching & Learning Epidemiology, Community Health Nursing, Health Care Policy
Program Website: SUNY College of Technology-Delhi School of Nursing
#13. Ball State University
A recipient of U.S. News and World Report’s 2015 Best Online Bachelor’s programs, Indiana’s Ball State University’s RN to BSN program is accredited by CCNE. The program’s flexibility provides for part time or full time students and is in an asynchronous format, allowing for students to log-on at times convenient to them. Ball State University also offers a 3-semester or 6-semester option.
Length of Program: 120 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $286 (in-state) per credit hour; $499 (out-of-state) per credit hour
Curriculum Snapshot: Nursing Foundation and Issues, Research in Nursing, Management and Leadership,Health Assessment, Applied Nursing Concepts,Community Health
Program Website:Ball State University
#14. Western Illinois University
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited, the Western Illinois University is designed for currently working, licensed RNs. Students may complete all coursework online with community placement for practicum practices.
Length of Program: 125 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $293.50 per credit hour (in-State); $440.25 per credit hour (out-of-state)
Curriculum Snapshot: Theoretical and Conceptual Foundations of Professional Nursing, Health Assessment, Genetics in Healthcare, Transcultural Nursing, Ethical and Legal, Nursing Research, Nursing Elective, Nursing and the Community, Pathophysiology and Psychopathology, Professional Seminar, Nursing Leadership, Management & Policy, Nursing Elective
Program Website: Western Illinois University
#15. Notre Dame College Online
Not be confused with Notre Dame University, this Ohio college provides a RN to BSN program that includes both the science and art of nursing. Utilizing a liberal arts approach NDS’s program is 100% online and offers an accelerated curriculum for the working nurse and students may enroll part-time or full-time in either the fall, spring or summer semesters.
Length of Program: 16-18 months
Estimated Tuition Cost: $295 per credit hour
Curriculum Snapshot: Not listed. Students may request additional program information.
Program Website: Notre Dame College
#16. University of Louisiana-LaFayette
Part of the Louisiana state educational system and accredited by CCNE, the online RN to BSN degree program has been recognized by U.S. News and World Report in their Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees. The school offers multiple start dates throughout the year.
Length of Program: 30 Credit Hours (core nursing courses); Additional Corequisite Courses required
Estimated Tuition Cost: $316.66 per credit hour
Curriculum Snapshot: Orientation for RN to BSN, Transition to Professional Nursing for RN to BSN, Health and Physical Assessment, Community Health Nursing with Diverse Populations, English Composition, College Algebra, Chemistry
University of Louisiana-LaFayette
#17. Kaplan University
This proprietary university has long been a leader in online higher education and has been recognized by U.S. News and World Report for it’s online bachelor degree options. Their RN to BSN program may be completed in as little as 18 months and the school offers an attractive 55% tuition discount for qualified, active duty military.
Length of Program: 90 Credit Hours (ADN); 130 (Diploma)
Estimated Tuition Cost: $315 per credit hour
Curriculum Snapshot: Professional Presence, Bioethics, Statistics, Fundamentals of Microbiology, Genetics, Professional Leadership Transitions, Nursing Research, Physical Assessment for the Nursing Professional
Program Website: Kaplan University
#18. Old Dominion University
Located in Norfolk, Virginia, Old Dominion University provides a CCNE accredited program for nurses in both synchronous and asynchronous online formats. The bachelor’s program prepares highly competent nurses with strong theoretical foundations and excellent clinical practice skills, ready for entry-level professional careers in acute care, ambulatory care, rehabilitation, home, and community settings.
Length of Program: 120 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $316 per credit hour (in-state); $345 per credit hour (out-of-state)
Curriculum Snapshot: Nursing Leadership, Health Assessment, Theoretical Foundations of Prof. Nursing, Nursing Science, Career Pathway Assessment, Career Pathway Development, Career Clinic Pathways & Outcome, Community Health Nursing
Program Website: Old Dominion University
#19. Southern New Hampshire University
SNHU is a private, non-profit university that offers a CCNE program totally online which is designed for the working registered nurse. It’s nursing curriculum is built upon the Institute of Medicine’s (IOM) “The Future of Nursing: Leading Change, Advancing Health” report competencies and follows a 10-week course curriculum. Southern New Hampshire offers a tuition cost break for active military and spouses.
Length of Program: 120 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $320 per credit hour; $225 per credit hour (Active Military/Spouse)
Curriculum Snapshot: English Composition I, English Composition II, Success Strategies for Online Learning, Human Anatomy and Physiology I, Anatomy and Physiology II, Microbiology, Statistics for Healthcare Professionals,Ethical and Legal Considerations of Healthcare, Healthcare Management and Finance, Scholarly Inquiry, Information Management and Patient Care Technologies, Pathophysiology for Nurses, Patient Assessment and Health Literacy
Program Website: Southern New Hampshire University
#20. Capella University
Started in 1993 as The Graduate School of America, now known as Capella University, added bachelors degrees in 2000, offers 43 programs and has educated more than 36,000 students. Holding accreditation by CCNE, Capella University’s RN to BSN program is 100% online students may transfer up to 135 credit hours to the Capella University program.
Length of Program: 180 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $324 per credit hour
Curriculum Snapshot: Orientation to Baccalaureate Nursing, Assessment, Communication, and Collaboration, Nursing Research and Informatics, Policy, Law, Ethics, and Regulations, Organizational and Systems Management for Quality Outcomes, Global Perspectives of Community and Public Service, Pharmacology for Patient Safety
Program Website: Capella University
#21. South Dakota State University
Celebrating it’s 80th anniversary in 2015, South Dakota State’s School of Nursing is accredited by CCNE. The school has received U.S. World Report recognition for it’s online bachelors degree programs and the School of Nursing received accolades for it’s online graduate nursing degree.
Length of Program: 120 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $325 per credit hour
Curriculum Snapshot: Composition I, Composition II,College Algebra, Fundamentals of Speech, Human Anatomy & Lab, Physiology & Lab, General Chemistry & Lab, Lifespan Development, Public Health Science General Microbiology, Human Nutrition
Program Websites: South Dakota State University
#22. Boise State University
Boise State University’s RN to BSN program is completely online and their overall Online Bachelor Programs have been recognized by U.S. News and World Report as among the country’s best. The program requires a 3-credit undergraduate statistics course prior to enrolling in most RN-BS courses.
Length of Program: 120 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $335 per credit hour ($450 Distance Learning Fee per 30 hours)
Curriculum Snapshot: University Transitional Foundations, E-Learning Preparation for the RN, Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice (Statistics is a prerequisite for this course.),Community and Population Health Nursing, Community and Population Health Nursing Lab (project based clinical), Policy, Power and Voice, Care Coordination and Resource Management, Leadership and Management
Program Website: Boise State University
#23. Wilmington University
Wilmington University’s program promotes increased clinical and communication skills, problem solving, confidence, and leadership. CCNE accredited, the program is developed to increase knowledge and skills as well as to provide opportunities to explore attitudes and values related to professional nursing practice.
Length of Program: 120 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $338 per credit hour; $250 per credit hour Active Military
Curriculum Snapshot: Nurse as Professional, Nurse as Decision Maker, Nurse as Teacher, Nurse as Leader, Nurse as Consumer of Research, Nurse as Caregiver: Chronic and Palliative Care, Holistic Health Assessment
Program Website: Wilmington University
#24. UMassOnline
The University of Massachusetts is a five-campus public research university system renowned for academic quality and research excellence and offers an online RN to BSN program through three of it’s five campuses, at Dartmouth, Boston and Amherst. Each campus’ program is accredited by CCNE; however, because of state regulations, UMassOnline cannot accept students from certain states, so it’s important to verify that your state residency qualifies for the UMassOnline program.
Length of Program: 120 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $351 (May vary by campus)
Curriculum Snapshot: Dependent on campus chosen
Program Website:University of Massachusetts Online
#25. Ohio State University
The RN to BSN program of Ohio State University is crafted for nurses who have completed an Associate’s Degree or Diploma in Nursing from an ACEN accredited institution. Clinical nursing courses are tailored to registered nurses’ previous experiences and can be completed near home and the program offers flexibility for currently working nurses.
Length of Program: 120 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $382 per credit hour
Curriculum Snapshot: English 1110, Math, Natural Sciences, Biology, Chemistry, Anatomy, Microbiology Program Website:Ohio State University
#26. University of Michigan-Flint
Accredited by CCNE, the University of Michigan-Flint, accepts up to 45 transfer credits towards it’s RN to BSN degree and allows for the student to proficiency out of certain courses by demonstration of testing experience. There are two clinical placements with this program that can be arranged in your home area.
Length of Program: 120 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $389.25 (in-state); $427.50 (out-of-state)
Curriculum Snapshot: General Education, Nursing Core, Nursing Foundations and Nursing Electiives
Program Website: University of Michigan-Flint
#27. University of South Alabama
CCNE accredited, the University of South Alabama’s School of Nursing provides an online RN to BSN program; however, most of the pre-requisite courses are not available online through USA, but may be completed prior to admission at another accredited university or through transfer credits. Due to state regulations, prospective Applicants from New York, and Kansas must first contact the RN-BSN Advising Office PRIOR to beginning the Nursing Application Process for this online nursing program.
Length of Program: 92 Credit Hours (61 Pre-requisite hours; 31 Nursing hours)
Estimated Tuition Cost: $392 per credit hour
Curriculum Snapshot: Concepts of Professional Nursing, Pathophysiology and Genomics,Evidence Based
Practice & Informatics, Healthcare Leadership/Collaboration, Health Assessment Across the Lifespan, Integration of Professional Practice,Concepts of Professional Nursing, Evidence Based, Practice & Informatics
Program Website: University of South Alabama
#28. Utica College
Focusing on patient-centered health care, the online BSN from Utica College is accredited by CCNE and is designed for students who place emphasis on the quality of their education and about providing a high level of patient care. Students in the RN to BSN program will spend approximately 20-25 hours performing a community assessment in a community setting of your choosing and 20-25 hours developing and presenting a clinical population education program.
Length of Program: 121 Credit Hours
Estimated Cost of Tuition: $395 per credit hour
Curriculum Snapshot: Human Anatomy and Physiology I & II, Microbiology and Lab, Introduction to Psychology, Cultures, Health and Healing, Human Genetics, Human Society,Pathophysiology, Pharmacology, Care of Populations and Communities, Health Policy Management in Professional Nursing, Trends in Professional Nursing
Program Website:Utica College
#29. Wright State University
Located in Dayton, Ohio and named for the famous Wright Brothers, Wright State University has a 100% online program for licensed nurses wishing to obtain a bachelor’s degree. Nursing courses are fully aligned with AACN BSN Essentials and the program is accredited by CCNE. The program may be completed within 15 months, depending on course load.
Program Length: 120 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $396 per credit Hour (in-State); $371 per credit hour (out-of-state)
Curriculum Snapshot: Concepts of Pathophysiology Across the Lifespan, Foundations of Research and Evidence-based Practice, Nursing Care in a Genomics Era, Holistic Nursing Practice Using Complementary & Alternative Therapies, Collaborating for Improving Patient Outcomes, Policy and Politics: Leading and Managing Healthcare
Program Website: Wright State University
#30. Eastern Kentucky University
EKU provides a two-track option for their CCNE accredited program. The Traditional Path takes a little over two years for completion, requiring students to take one course each 8-week term; or, students may take the 1-Year Path which allows students to take two courses per 8-week term with departmental approval. Eastern Kentucky University has been recognized among the nation’s best online degree programs by U.S. News & World Report.
Length of Program: Not specified
Estimated Tuition Cost: $398 per credit hour
Curriculum Snapshot: Health Assessment for the RN, Perspectives in Professional Nursing I & II, Nursing Research, Leadership and Management, Complex Health Systems, Professional Role Transitions, Public Health Nursing
Program Website: Eastern Kentucky University
#31. Brandman Univesity
Brandman University’s RN to BSN program is delivered using a blend of: one 4-day immersion session at the Irvine, California campus at the beginning of the program with internships/clinical practices performed in hospitals, clinics and health centers near your home or work. CCNE accredited, this California school is part of the Chapman University System and offers an attractive tuition discount for active military and their spouse.
Program Length: 120 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $400 per credit hour; $250 per credit hour Active Military
Curriculum Snapshot: Transitions to Inquiry Based Practice: Baccalaureate Generalist Nursing Practice, Nursing’s Public Image and Professional Issues, Managing Healthcare Reform, Healthcare Communication and Collaboration, Evidence-based Thinking for Scholarship and Practice, Improving Patient Healthcare Outcomes: Quality Care and Patient Safety
Program Website:Brandman University
#32. The College of St. Scholastica
Accredited by CCNE, the RN to BSN program at this Catholic affiliated school, is built on your knowledge and experience as an RN. This program is available 100% online and their online programs have been recognized by U.S. News and World Report.
Program Length: 128 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $405 per credit hour
Curriculum Snapshot: Leadership in Nursing, Community Health Nursing, Community Health NSG Clinical, Holistic Assessment in Nursing, RN to BS Portfolio Introduction, RN to BS NSG Portfolio Continuation
RN to BS Nursing Portfolio, Statistics for Profl Practice, Religious Perspectives in Health Care Ethics
Program Website: College of St. Scholastica
#33. Upper Iowa University
This long standing Iowa university hosts a CCNE accredited RN to BSN program that may be obtained by either fully online or in the form of a hybrid program (75% of coursework is online) for students wishing both the online and classroom experience. The online program is not self-paced, having specific deadlines for assignments.
Length of Program: 120 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $405 per credit hour
Curriculum Snapshot: Elementary Statistics,Professional Communication for Nurses, Professional Nursing Practice, Integrated Concepts of Nursing Care l, Integrated Concepts of Nursing Care ll, Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing, Community Health Nursing, Nursing Leadership and Management
Program Website: Upper Iowa University
#34. University of Wisconsin Green Bay
Nationally accredited by CCNE, the University of Wisconsin Green Bay School of Nursing provides a 100% online study, with clinical work done in your home state. All students are assigned a personal advisor sensitive to the needs of adult, working professionals. Work experience is included in the first 60 credits you receive for being a diploma or associate degree registered nurse.
Length of Program: 120-123 Credit Hours
Estimated Cost of Tuition: $415 per credit hour
Curriculum Snapshot: Fine Arts, Humanities I & II, Communication – Speech, Written Communication – Expository Writing, Therapeutic Nursing Intervention, Chronic Care Management, Research and Evidence-Based PracticeLeadership and Management, Information Management Healthcare Technology
Program Website:University of Wisconsin Green Bay
#35. George Mason University
George Mason University is a public institution that was founded in 1972 and has consistently made U.S. News and World Report’s top rankings. Admission into the program occurs only twice a year (fall and spring terms) and the RN to BSN program can be completed in one year if the student is full-time.
Length of Program: 120 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $424.25 (in-state); $1,240 (out-of-state)
Curriculum Snapshot: Advanced Composition, Concepts in Professional Nursing as a Discipline, Comprehensive Health Assessment, Leadership and Management of Health Care, Community Health and Epidemiology, Vulnerable Populations, Research in Nursing
Program Website: George Mason University
#36. Arizona State College of Nursing and Health Innovation
ASU’s College of Nursing and Health Innovation’s RN to BSN online program is highly ranked by U.S. News and World Report and holds CCNE accreditation. Courses are 7.5 weeks in length and the program may be completed in 18-24 months.
Length of Program: 45 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $425 per credit hour
Curriculum Snapshot: English Composition, Anatomy & Physiology I, Anatomy & Physiology II, Microbiology, Introduction to Chemistry, Introduction to Psychology, Human Development, College Math
Program Website: Arizona State College of Nursing and Health Innovation
#37. University of Saint Mary
This school was founded in 1923 by the Sisters of Charity and has been named by Princeton Review as one of the “Best Midwestern Colleges” since 2005. This robust RN to BSN program is accredited by CCNE and can be completed in approximately 12 months. University of Saint Mary participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program for military families who apply through the Veteran’s Administration.
Length of Program: 27 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $460 per credit hour
Curriculum Snapshot: Mission in Health Care: A Theological Perspective, Nursing as a Profession, Research in Nursing, Health Assessment, Pathophysiology, Palliative Care Nursing, Community Health Nursing, Leadership in Nursing, Senior Integrative Seminar
Program Website: University of Saint Mary
#38. Western Kentucky University
The university, located in Bowling Green, Kentucky, has a history dating to 1901 and has a robust RN to BSN online educational program. WKU’s program is accredited by AACN (American Association of College of Nursing) and CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education). The university has been ranked the 30th best university in the South by U.S. News & World Report.
Length of Program: 120 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $474 per credit hour
Curriculum Snapshot: Concepts of Disease Process, Health Assessment, Concepts of Pharmacology, Transcultural Nursing, Concepts/Professional Nursing, Care of the High Acuity Patient, Teaching and Health Promotion, Nursing Leadership/Management, Nursing Informatics
Program Website:Western Kentucky University
#39. Jacksonville University School of Nursing
A private university located in Jacksonville, Florida, JU’s School of Nursing has been recognized by U.S. News and World Report as one of America’s best colleges. The School of Nursing provides an online RN to BSN degree that exposes students to a broad range of nursing subjects from community health, critical care, research and assessment to general education subjects such as nutrition, statistics, and anatomy and physiology. The Nursing School is fully accredited by CCNE.
Length of Program: 90 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $460 per credit hour
Curriculum Snapshot: Personal Productivity Using Technology, Principles of Macroeconomics, Introductory Writing, World Literature, The Modern World, Anatomy & Physiology I, Anatomy & Physiology II, Nutrition, Microbiology for Health Professionals
Program Website: Jacksonville University
#40. University of Cincinnati School of Nursing
With a history going back to 1889 and online learning expertise in 2005, The University of Cincinnati School of Nursing’s RN to BSN program is completed completely online. All courses are available online and the required community clinical project will be completed in your local area. The school offers both full- and part-time programs accredited by CCNE and has been recognized by U.S. News and World Report for it’s online graduate nursing program. Due to state regulation restrictions, the University of Cincinnati is not able to accept students from these states: District of Columbia, Louisiana, Massachusetts, New York, North Carolina, Oregon and Tennessee.
Length of Program: Credit Hours Not Specified (*Program may be completed in one academic year if full time; up to 18 months for part time attendance)
Estimated Tuition Cost: $488 (in-state); $503 (out-of-state) per credit hour
Curriculum Snapshot: Transition to Baccalaureate Education, Concepts of Community, BSN Informatics for Professional Nurses, Scientific Basis for Nursing Practice, Leadership for RNs, Community As Partner, Gerontology for Nurses, Capstone
Program Website:University of Cincinnati
#41. Bethel University
Bethel University is located in St. Paul, Minnesota and provides a 100% online RN to BSN program with CCNE accreditation. The school is a private, Christian university, sponsored in part by the churches of Converge Worldwide and focuses on a holistic approach, touching mind, body and spirit.
Length of Program: 39 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $500 per credit hour
Curriculum Snapshot: The Professional Nurse, Public Health Nursing, Nursing Informatics,
Cultural Diversity in Health Care, Research and Evidence-Based Practice, Nursing Leadership Ethics
Program Website: Bethel University
#42. LaSalle University
Accredited by CCNE, LaSalle University’s accelerated RN to BSN degree also offers a unique, RN to BSN to MSN option, designed for nurses who may have a MSN in their professional goals. The program is geared to develop and refine critical-thinking skills and may be completed in approximately 13 months.
Length of Program: 52 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $555 per credit hour
Curriculum Snapshot: Professional Nursing Practice and Health Systems, Health Assessment, Developments and Controversies in Pathophysiology and Pharmacology, Nursing Research, Evidence-Based Practice, International Public Health Nursing, Ethics In Nursing
Program Website:LaSalle University
#43. Washington State University
With a campus in Spokane, Washington, Washington State University’s College of Nursing provides a hybrid RN to BSN program requiring on-campus attendance 1-2 times per semester. The program builds on the student’s background and includes essential course work in assessment, research, leadership and management, ethics, and community health. This program is CCNE accredited.
Program Length: Not listed
Estimated Tuition Cost: $570 per credit hour
Curriculum Snapshot: Anatomy and Physiology, Human Nutrition, Introduction to Sociology or Social Problems, Introduction to PsychologyProfessional Nursing Concepts & Issues, Assessment & Application of Physiological Concepts to Nursing Practice I, Nursing Research, Evidence-Based Practice & Informatics
Program Website: Washington State University
#44. Villanova College of Nursing
The Villanova College of Nursing is accredited as a provider of continuing nursing education by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Commission on Accreditation and has been awarded a prestigious designation of being a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education by the National League for Nursing (NLN). Villanova’s RN to BSN online program is designed for registered nurses who are looking to expand their professional responsibilities, advancement opportunities and income potential, as well as satisfy employer educational requirements.
Length of Program: 60 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $593 per credit hour
Curriculum Snapshot: Foundations in Nursing and Health, Clinical Decision Making Assessment Health Assessment, Principles of Nutrition, Research and Scientific Evidence in Nursing Practice, Imperatives for Global and Public Health, Health Promotion and Home Health in the Community
Program Website:Villanova University
#45. University of Illinois-Chicago School of Nursing
Specifically designed for registered nurses who are currently licensed, the UIC Bachelor of Science in Nursing – RN to BSN Online Degree Completion Program is 100% online. UIC-School of Nursing credits 33 hours for currently practicing, licensed nurses towards their degree. Each student is assigned an online advisor while in the program.
Length of Program: 63 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $650 per credit hour
Curriculum Snapshot: Health Assessment, Concepts/Processes for Contemporary Nursing, Clinical Concepts/Processes in Population-Focused Nursing, Exploring Complementary/Alternative Practices, Introduction to Nursing Research/Statistics for Evidence-Based Practice, Nursing Informatics
Program Website: University of Illinois-Chicago School of Nursing
#46. Chatham University
With a campus in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, this RN to BSN program is an accelerated online degree program that requiring completion of a total of 120 credit hours, including 140 clinical hours in college level courses. Students may transfer in up to 90 of the 120 credits into the program, leaving them 30 credits to complete the degree unless otherwise specified. The program has a strong liberal arts and science format. Chatham University’s program is CCNE accredited.
Length of Program: 120 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $782 per credit hour
Curriculum Snapshot:Introduction to Nursing Resources, Health Policy and Finance, Women’s Health Nursing, Scholarship for Evidence-Based Practice, Clinical Prevention, Population and Environmental Health, Global Cultural Diversity and Speciality Population Nursing
Program Website:Chatham University
#47. Medical University of South Carolina
This program is designed for the working RN and can be completed part-time. MUSC has long been recognized by U.S. News and World Report for it’s outstanding nursing program. Courses are 5 weeks in length for didactic courses and 13-15 weeks in length for clinical courses. There is one clinical course each semester with a focus on the following: gerontology, community/public health, and leadership. The clinical hours consist of a project that may include either virtual or live work.
Length of Program: 120 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $840 per credit hour (1st Semester); $630 per credit hour (2nd Semester); $700 per credit hour (3rd Semester)
Curriculum Snapshot: Dynamics of Professional Nursing Practice, Health Assessment for Registered Nurses, Pathophysiology, Healthy Aging and Health Promotion, Research & Evidenced Based Practice, Community and Population Focused Nursing, Information Management in Nursing, Leadership and Management in Nursing, Health Systems and Policy
Program Website:Medical Center of South Carolina
#48. Kent State University
Located in Kent, Ohio, Kent State’s RN to BSN program is CCNE-accredited, available both part-time and full-time, and can be completed 100% online or in-person in less than two years. You may be eligible to transfer up to 33 nursing credits from your associate degree or diploma program. Courses are 7-weeks in length and the school offers rolling admission.
Length of Program: 63 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $910 per credit hour (in-state); $1,633 per credit hour (out-of-state)
Curriculum Snapshot:General Psychology, Introduction to Sociology, Modeling Algebra 1, Algebra for Calculus 1, Intuitive Calculus 1, Analytical Geometry and Calculus I, Information and Patient Care Technology for Professional Nursing Practice 1, Inquiry and Research for Professional Nursing Practice
Program Website: Kent State University
#49. Chamberlain College of Nursing
Accredited by CCNE, Chamberlain College of Nursing offers a RN to BSN program that consists of 3 full-time semesters (complete in as few as 12 months while you continue to work). Totally online, the program requires 7 nursing courses and 7 liberal arts courses. It’s an evidence-based practice focused program and provides for up to 82 credit hours of proficiency credit.
Length of Program: 129