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According to the American Nurses Association, there is an annual growth of 100,000 nursing positions expected through 2022, making nursing the fastest growing profession in the U.S. Even more startling is the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ (BLS) estimate that there will be the need for 1.1 million new Registered Nurses required to avoid a shortage. Nearly 500,000 nurses are anticipated to retire over the next ten years; and, the number of patients is expected to increase with more people obtaining health insurance through the Affordable Care Act and aging Baby Boomers requiring more care.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the 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.
In 2010, the Institute of Medicine published The Future of Nursing: Leading Change, Advancing Health, an expansive report examining the immediate and long-term affects of healthcare reform. One notable recommendation is that 80 percent of the nation’s nursing workforce should have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree by 2020.
Entry level nursing careers, those with either a diploma RN or an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN), are still prevalent; but the industry standard is moving towards the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree and more opportunities exist for nurses holding BSN or Master of Nursing (MSN) degrees. Colleges and universities, in an effort to meet the increased demand, have developed accelerated, online nursing programs for those holding either ADN, LPN or other degree designation.
The majority of schools we reviewed require BSN candidates 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 four-year BSN ranges around 120 credit hours. In order to help fill the gap in nursing, many schools offer accelerated RN to BSN programs, as well as 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.
Program Accreditation
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and The Accreditation Commission For Education in Nursing (ACEN) are independent regulatory bodies that accredit online programs by assessing and identifying programs engaged 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. You should also insure that previous, general education courses will transfer to the RN to BSN program you pick. Admission advisors will be able to determine that for you.
Financing Your Degree
Additionally, as part of the nationwide effort to attract more nursing faculty and nurse educators, the Nurses Educational Funds Organization offers educational funding for nurses advancing their education. This link will take you to the organization’s webpage where you can learn more: Nurses Educational Funds Organization. Students may also qualify for federal financial aid and should review application requirements with your school’s Financial Aid Office.
Online Educational Opportunities
Best Medical Degrees, using citations from the The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), American Association of Colleges and Nursing (AACN) and U.S. News and World Report, has researched online programs which offer Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Nursing degrees achievable within two years or less. Most of the programs ranked are designed for those currently working professionals who hold, at least, a diploma degree in nursing or licensed practical nursing. Although certainly not inclusive, this ranking (listed from less expensive to highest estimated tuition cost) is a good starting point for nurses wishing to further their education and improve their career choices.
1. East Carolina University
Part of the University of North Carolina educational system, this Greenville, North Carolina based school, was founded in 1907 and offers more than 100 undergraduate and 75 masters degree programs. A public university, East Carolina University’s Distance Education Division offers over 80 online degree programs ranging from undergraduate degrees in Business, Communications, Health Administration and a RN to BSN degree. Ranked by U.S. News and World Report, East Carolina University has a ranking in the 2016 edition of Best Colleges is National Universities at #194.
Offering a liberal arts and natural sciences based curriculum, the ECU’s RN to BSN program option stresses the learning of concepts and principles, as well as the use of the nursing process in caring for individuals, families and groups. Curriculum for the RN to BSN degree includes nursing research, clinical scholarship, and evidence based practice, communication in nursing, nursing leadership and finance. The online program may be completed in 33 credit hours and earned in 4 semesters. North Carolina 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)
2. Western Carolina University
Situated near the Great Smoky and Blue Ridge Mountains, in Cullowhee, North Carolina, the school was founded in 1889 and now enrolls over 10,000 students. The school offers academic programs which span more than 115 undergraduate specialties and more than 60 graduate programs. In addition, Western Carolina University has been recognized among the Top 15 public regional universities in the South by U.S. News and World Report, named one of 24 Best Value Colleges in the U.S. by Kiplinger Personal Finance and has been noted as one of the Top 12 best online programs for the military and veterans. The WKU School of Nursing was ranked #3 by College Choice as one of the 50 Best Online Nursing Programs in 2015.
Accredited by CCNE, the School of Nursing’s online RN to BSN program degree allows students to complete 24 hours of online core WCU RN to BSN courses, Leadership and Community Health practicums, and 8 hours of upper division online WCU electives on a part-time basis within two years. The program is 100% online; however, students are also required to complete two practicum course rotations, which may be met in the student’s local area with approval from course instructors. Application to the program includes: a current, unrestricted license to practice as an RN, completion of WCU Liberal Studies and School of Nursing prerequisites with a “C” average or better, cumulative GPA of 2.5, completion of 60 transferable non-nursing courses and applications for the Distance Learning and Admissions accompanied with official transcripts.
Length of Program: 34 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $151.62 (In-State); $502.74 (Out-of-State)
3. University of Texas at Arlington
This school originated as Arlington College in 1895 and its history is as rich in tradition as it is in change. Serving as a military academy in the early 20th century, the school eventually joined the Texas University system in 1967. Today, the University offers more than 180 bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs to more than 48,000 on-campus and online students. Its ever-expanding facilities span 420 acres and include more than 100 buildings. Located in Arlington, Texas the school has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report ranks UTA in its 2016 edition of Best Colleges is National Universities, Tier 2. The school’s online Graduate Nursing Program is ranked #76 nationally by U.S. News and World Report.
Developed specifically for the working nurse, The University of Texas School of Nursing offers an online RN to BSN program in collaboration with Academic Partnerships that 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 and may be finished in as few as nine months. This online program has graduated more than 6,500 students in less than six years and there is also a BSN to MSN online program available that may be completed in as few as 36 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
4. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
The School of Nursing of Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, located in Lubbock, Texas, is the only nursing school in West Texas that provides baccalaureate, master’s and doctoral education. This school, started in 1979, has been providing online nursing degrees since 1999 and holds AACN and CCNE accreditation and is part of the Texas Tech University System. The nursing school provides Articulation Agreements with community colleges to allow for an easier transition for associate’s degree graduates and entering TTU. TTU School of Nursing requires 30 hours of prerequisite coursework. The school’s online Graduate Nursing Program has been recognized at #36 in U.S. News and World Report’s Best Online Graduate Program.
Students are required to take general education courses in subjects such as history, biology, psychology and English before completing core nursing courses in evidence based practice, risk analysis, issues and trends in nursing and nursing and leadership. TTU’s RN to BSN offers 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)
5. University of Central Florida
The University of Central Florida, was founded in 1963 and claims the distinction of being the second-largest university in the nation. UFC, located in Orlando, Florida, boasts 13 colleges, and enrollment of 63,000 students and offers 210 degree programs throughout its 10 regional locations. UCF has been recognized as one of the nation’s “Most Innovative” universities in the U.S. News & World Report’s Best Colleges 2016 guide rankings; and, in 2015, Kiplinger’s and The Princeton Review cited University of Central Florida as one of the nation’s best values for a college education. The Nursing School has been ranked as one of the best online graduate nursing programs in Florida and a top 25 program for Veterans, according to U.S. News & World Report.
Accredited by CCNE, the school offers two programs for licensed nursing holding ADN or RN to BSN. The coursework is a 30 credit hour curriculum, with up to 27 credit hours which may be awarded toward the BSN for prior coursework and is offered either part-time or full time. The program is 100% online, the University of Central Florida’s RN to BSN program was developed with the working registered nurse in mind. The program has a higher state and national RN license exam (NCLEX-RN) pass rate.
Length of Program: 30 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $212.28 per credit hour (in-state); $748.89 per credit hour (out-of-state)
6. University of Southern Indiana
This public institution, located in Evansville, Indiana, was founded in 1965 and offers over 80 degrees and has an enrollment of over 10,000 undergraduate and graduate students. USI offers programs through the College of Liberal Arts, the Romain College of Business, College of Nursing and Health Professions, and the Pott College of Science, Engineering, and Education. The College of Nursing and Health Professions offers thirteen educational programs in Dental Assisting , Dental Hygiene, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Food and Nutrition, Health Services, Health Administration, Nursing (Bachelors of Science in Nursing, Masters of Science in Nursing and Doctor of Nursing Practice), Occupational Therapy Assistant, Occupational Therapy, Radiologic Imaging, and Respiratory Therapy. The nursing program is CCNE accredited.
The USI RN to BSN program is offered to nurses holding an active, unencumbered license, completion of an associate degree or diploma in nursing from an accredited institution, a GPA of 2.7 and must be currently employed or have access to a health care work environment in order to complete course requirements. The RN-BSN curriculum includes general education courses, required non-nursing courses, and nursing courses. Active nurses may receive up to 36 credits for nursing classes from your ASN or Diploma program. Coursework will include: Health Assessment for RNs, Application of Evidence Based Practice, Transition to Advanced Nursing Practice, Population-Focused Care for RN, Interprofessional Perspective on Global Health, Leadership in Nursing & Healthcare Organizations and Clinical Synthesis.
Length of Program: 32 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $227.92 (In-State); $553.96 (Out-of-State)
7. Rasmussen College
This college opened its doors in St. Paul, Minnesota in 1900, to train secretarial and accounting students. Over the past 116 years, Rasmussen College has expanded its mission to include schools of business, design, education, health sciences, justice studies, technology and nursing. Rasmussen College offers a RN to BSN online program specifically designed for currently employed/licensed RNs and may be completed within 12 months, dependent on transfer credits, with flexible coursework. Rasmussen also offers a LPN to RN online degree.
Coursework for Rasmussen College’s RN to BSN programincludes study in health assessment, applied pathophysiology, transcultural nursing, integration of evidence-based practice and research, public and community nursing, nursing informatics and a captstone project. The program is accredited by CCNE. Rasmussen College has campuses in Florida, Illinois, Kansas, Minnesota, North Dakota and Wisconsin. Because of state regulations, students should confirm that they will be eligible for admission based on the state in which they live. There are special scholarship programs offered for nursing students from Wisconsin and Florida, so prospective students should check with the Financial Aid Office to see whether they may qualify.
Length of Program 12-18 months
Estimated Tuition Cost: $260 per credit hour
8. 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; and, SUNY Delhi, consistently ranks among the leading Baccalaureate Colleges in the North, according to the U.S. News and World Report Guide to America’s Best Colleges. Located in Delhi, New York, SUNY Delhi is part of the State University System of New York and offers 50 majors—associate, bachelor’s and master’s degree programs taught by award-winning faculty.
SUNY-Delhi’s RN to BSN program includes Liberal Arts education as an integral part of the program with coursework in behavioral, biological, social, historical, political, and economic theories. Students are required to have an unencumbered RN license and have graduated from an associates degree program. The program also offers a generous course transfer option. SUNY Delhi’s Nursing Program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
Length of Program: 61 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $277.43 per credit hour
9. Notre Dame College Online
Not to be confused with Notre Dame University, this Euclid, Ohio college provides a RN to BSN program that includes both the science and art of nursing. The Sisters of Notre Dame founded Notre Dame College in 1922 as a Catholic, four-year liberal arts institution for women. Notre Dame College prepares nursing professionals to function in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, schools, public health institutions and other community organizations.
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. Notre Dame College’s RN to BSN online program is accredited by CCNE, offers accelerated courses (in 8 week terms) and courses are taught by full-time faculty. Admission requires: completed online application for admission, either an Associate Degree or diploma RN from an ACEN accredited program, minimum GPA of 2.75 or greater, verification of an active RN license from the state of residence, completion of prerequisite and core courses with a “C” or higher for graduation and official transcripts for all college-level courses previously taken.
Length of Program: 16-18 months
Estimated Tuition Cost: $310 per credit hour
10. University of Louisiana-LaFayette
University of Louisiana-LaFayette is the second-largest university in Louisiana, with 18,000 students, and is part of the state of Louisiana university system. The College of Nursing and Allied Health Professions was founded in 1952; and, the school boasts itself as an international leader in computer science, engineering and nursing. The RN to BSN student will learn nursing theory, nursing for families and communities, evaluate scientific evidence and application for patient care, leadership skills and collaboration with colleagues on interdisciplinary health teams.
Accredited by CCNE, the online University of Louisiana-LaFayette’s 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. Core corequisites include: English literature, chemistry, general biology, communications, art, history, college algebra, English composition, microbiology, behavioral science and psychology. According to state regulations, not all students are eligible for admission to UL-LaFayette online programs. Be certain to check with admissions to determine if your state qualifies. Admission requirements are: completion of the online application and a non-refundable $25 application fee, submission of an active, unencumbered RN license and proof of an Associate Degree in Nursing (ACEN accredited) or diploma of an ACEN accredited nursing program. A GPA of 2.75 is required for both the RN or ADN degree.
Length of Program: 30 Credit Hours (core nursing courses); Additional Corequisite Courses required
Estimated Tuition Cost: $316.66 per credit hour
11. University of Saint Francis
This Catholic sponsored, private school located in Fort Wayne, Indiana was founded in 1890 in LaFayette before moving in to Fort Wayne in 1944. The University of Saint Francis enrolls approximately 2,300 on campus students and offers over 70 academic programs. The school has been on the forefront of distance education and has been ranked #41 by U.S. News and World Report as one of the Best Colleges in the Regional University category. the nursing program offers several nursing programs including ASN, LPN to ASN, RN to BSN, four year BSN, RN to MSN and BSN to MSN. Each of the nursing programs is fully accredited by national nursing organizations, including CCNE.
The RN to BSN program at USF is an accelerated, online program designed for Registered Nurses seeking a Bachelor of Nursing. Courses are offered in eight-week sessions, with two eight-week sessions being offered each academic term (fall, spring, and summer). Students may enroll full-time or part-time, which offers an opportunity to complete the required nursing coursework in as little as 12 months. The online RN-BSN program requires 13 credit hours in elective/transfer/prior learning credits. Most students are able to transfer in those credits at the point of admission. Others may choose to use experience and prior learning or work experience to earn this credit, while others may choose to take elective coursework to fulfill this requirement.
Length of Program: 37 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $420 per credit hour
12. University of South Alabama
Based in Mobile, Alabama, The University of South Alabama began accepting students in 1963 and offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. USA provides students with quality medical education through the colleges of Medicine, Nursing and Allied Health Professions. Concurrently, the USA Health System serves the region with advanced and innovative care through the USA Physicians Group, USA Medical Center, USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital and the USA Mitchell Cancer Institute. Annual enrollment at USA is around 16,000 and has graduated approximately 10,400 nurses.
The University of South Alabama’s RN to BSN program is CCNE accredited; however, most of the prerequisite courses are not available online through USA, but may be completed prior to admission at another accredited university or through transfer credits. These prerequisite courses include English, history, biology, algebra and computer elective, among others. 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: $420 per credit hour
13. The University of Tennessee Chattanooga
Part of the statewide Tennessee university system, The University of Tennessee Chattanooga School of Nursing offers a RN to BSN Gateway for working, licensed nurses. The school of nursing was established in 1973, graduating its first class of 28 in 1977. Today, the school offers undergraduate and graduate nursing degrees in general nursing, nursing anesthesia, gerontology, nurse practitioner and doctor of nursing. The Gateway for RN to BSN program is offered 100% online and requires one on-campus visit for orientation. Applicants for the Gateway Path must have graduated from an accredited associate degree or diploma nursing program, have a 2.0 GPA or higher and possess an active RN license. The program can be completed over a 16 month period and is designed for the working nurse.
Application for admission in UTC’s RN to BSN program program are November 15 and June 15 with cohorts beginning in January and August. Nursing courses are taken over a 16 month period and is designed for the working nurse. Coursework includes: Nursing Theory, Pathophysiology, Health Assessment, Issues in Professional Nursing, Community Health Nursing, Nursing Theory, Nursing Research and Leadership/Management.
Length of Program: 16 months
Estimated Tuition Cost: $369 Per Credit Hour (In-State); $395 (Out-of-State)
14. Arizona State College of Nursing and Health Innovation
Arizona State College of Nursing and Health Innovation started in the Fall of 1973; and, in 1998, the college began its online nursing program. In 1999, the college received one of five federal grants to offer the RN to BSN online. Today, the RN to BSN is fully online as are eleven tracks in the MSN program and DNP program. Recognized by U.S. News & World Report, cites Arizona State University in its top tier of U.S. universities, Forbes names ASU as one of America’s best college buys and the Wall Street Journal names ASU as 5th among top universities favored for job recruitment. Additionally, U.S. News & World Report’s 2016 Best Online Bachelor’s Programs lists ASU #11 overall for undergraduate online programs.
Arizona State College of Nursing and Health RN to BSN online program holds CCNE accreditation. Courses are 7.5 weeks in length and the program may be completed in 18-24 months. Typical courses include: nursing research and application to practice, nursing theory, health promotion, community and public health nursing in the U.S., innovation in nursing, nursing management, public and global health in nurse, etc. Students may transfer up to 64 credits from a regionally accredited community college; and, those with academic credit from a regionally accredited university may be able to transfer more credits.
Length of Program: 45 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $425 per credit hour
15. Eastern Kentucky University
U.S. News and World Report ranks Eastern Kentucky University online programs at #63 nationally and its online graduate nursing degree is ranked #18 nationwide. This public school, founded in 1906 in Richmond, Kentucky is ranked overall by U.S. News and World Report as #76 in its 2016 Best Schools Regional Schools category. The School of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and it utilizes the standards of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), which includes evidence-based practice and professional nursing communication and collaboration. Proficiency credit may be gained for work experience and prior learning and clinical practice may be done in your home community. The school offers to paths for the RN to BSN student. The traditional path which requires the student to take one course each 8-week term, with completion within two years; and, the one-year path, which requires department approval, allowing students to take two courses per term.
Application requirements for EKU’s RN to BSN program are: an Associate’s degree in nursing from a regionally accredited program, an RN license from an approved state that is free and unrestricted and a minimum grade equivalent of 2.5. EKU has a rolling admission program with enrollment dates for Fall, July 1, Spring, November 1, and Summer March 15. Coursework includes: Health Assessment for the RN, Perspectives in Professional Nursing, Nursing Research, Leadership and Management, Complex Health Systems, Professional Role Transitions and Public Health Nursing.
Length of Program: 29 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $450 per credit hour
16. East Tennessee State University
East Tennessee State University has its campus in Johnson City, Tennessee and was founded in 1911 as East Tennessee Normal College, a teachers college. The school was renamed East Tennessee State University in 1963. Today, ETSU has an enrollment of over 11,000 undergraduates. The School of Nursing was established in 1978 followed in 1983 by the opening of the James H. Quillen School of Medicine. The Quillen College of Medicine has been recognized by U.S.News & World Report third in nation for excellence in rural medicine; and, the nursing program has been recognized by U.S. News and World Report as one of the nation’s Best in Masters Degree in Nursing and its Doctor of Nursing program.
ETSU’s RN to BSN offers a 100% online, full-time (3 semesters of nursing courses) or part-time (five semesters of nursing courses) program. Coursework for this degree includes: Pathophysiology, Using Information Technology, Health Assessment, Pharmacology for Nursing, Advancing to Professional Nursing Practice, Nursing Theory and Research, Population-based Nursing Care I & II, Transition to Professional Practice and R.N. Practicum. Application deadlines for the RN to BSN online program are: Spring, December 15, Summer, April 15 and Fall, August 1. The program is accredited by CCNE.
Length of Program: 32-35 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $425 per credit hour
17. 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. The Princeton Review has named the University of Saint Mary a “Best Midwestern College” since 2005. The university holds accreditation from the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and the State of Kansas Department of Education. This robust RN to BSN program is accredited by CCNE and can be completed in approximately 12 months. The University of Saint Mary participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program for military families who apply through the Veteran’s Administration.
The online University of Saint Mary’s RN to BSN degree is developed around the concepts of Commitment, Conscience, Competence, Compassion, and Confidence. Typical coursework includes: 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. Full-time students can complete the RN-BSN online degree in about 12-18 months with continuous enrollment. To be considered full-time, a student must be enrolled in at least six credit hours each 8-week term. Part-time students can complete the degree requirements in about three years with continuous enrollment.
Length of Program: 27 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $460 per credit hour
18. Jacksonville University School of Nursing
A private university located in Jacksonville, Florida, the school started in the 1930s as Porter University and then to Jacksonville Junior College. JU’s School of Nursing has been recognized by U.S. News and World Report as one of America’s best colleges. This online program allows a working RN, to receive up to 90 credits towards a BSN degree, completion of the RN to BSN program in as few as 10 months (provided prerequisite course requirements are met at the time of enrollment) and provides a RN to BSN Online Honor Scholarship for qualified students (providing 25% off of the nursing tuition).
Jacksonville University’s 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 and offers coursework in: Professional Nursing, Information Management in Healthcare, Evidence-Based Nursing, Nursing Assessment for the Practicing Nurse, Nursing Leadership and Health Care Policy, Community Focused Professional Nursing, etc. The program offers students 30 credits for an active U.S. RN license, six yearly sessions, 8-week courses, full or part time study, practice projects completed locally and the program is convenient for U.S. military nurses worldwide. There is a 10% discount for online nursing degrees for Reservists, Guardsmen, Veterans, spouses and dependents of disabled or deceased Veterans.
Length of Program: 90 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $460 per credit hour
19. University of Cincinnati College of Nursing
Preceded in 1819, by the Cincinnati College and the Medical College of Ohio, The University of Cincinnati in Ohio, was established in 1870 by the City of Cincinnati. In 1977, the public school became part of the Ohio state university system. This public research university currently has an enrollment exceeding 44,000, offering 7 undergraduate colleges and graduate colleges in law, medicine, pharmacy and nursing. U.S. News and World Report has named UC among the top tier of the Best National Universities; and, the school has been recognized as a Research University (Very High Research Activity) by the Carnegie Commission, and ranked as one of America’s top 25 public research universities by the National Science Foundation.
With a history going back to 1889 and online learning expertise since 2005, University of Cincinnati College of Nursing’s RN to BSN program is offered 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. Admission requirements include: a completed University of Cincinnati Application for Undergraduate Admission, all official transcripts from previous colleges with a cumulative GPA of no less than 2.5, documented completion of a ADN or RN diploma leading to RN licensure, documentation of an active, unrestricted RN license and applicable application fees.
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
20. Bethel University
Started as a Baptist seminary in 1914, Bethel moved from Chicago to St. Paul, Minnesota and, following WWII, became Bethel College and Seminary. In 1989, the school added non-theological graduate programs and eventually added undergraduate and online degree programs. Bethel remains a private, Christian university, sponsored in part by the churches of Converge Worldwide, but is open to all students. The university currently has four colleges in Arts and Sciences, Adult and Professional Studies, Graduate School and Bethel Seminary.
Located in St. Paul, Minnesota Bethel University provides a 100% online RN to BSN program with CCNE accreditation. The school is focuses on a holistic approach, touching mind, body and spirit. Admission to the nursing program is a two step process which includes an application to Bethel University and to the College of Nursing. Admission requirements included: Bethel University application, copy of health insurance card, copy of unencumbered Nursing License, official college transcripts, two references and current resume. Online courses for the RN to BSN degree consist of: Scripture and Society, The Professional Nurse. Public Health Nursing, Nursing Informatics, Nursing Leadership and Research and Evidence-Based Practice and Ethics.
Length of Program: 33 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $500 per credit hour
21. LaSalle University
Ranked by Forbes as one of America’s Best Value Colleges, LaSalle University is a Catholic University located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and is named for named for St. John Baptist de La Salle, patron saint of teachers. The school was founded in 1863 to serve the sons of immigrant populations, providing them with an education to help them to assimilate into American society. Since it’s founding, The University has conferred more than 60,000 degrees. La Salle became coeducational in 1970 and obtained university status in 1984, offering 3 undergraduate schools and 50 undergraduate majors, 26 masters programs and 3 doctoral programs. Application for the Accelerated RN to BSN online degree requires: completion of Evening and Weekend Program admission application, official college/university/nursing school transcripts, high school transcript (if fewer than 30 college credits obtained), copy of active RN license and a GPA of 2.75 or greater from a previous nursing program. The school has been recognized by U.S. News and World Report as #26 in its ranking of Regional Universities (North) and #20 ranking as Best Colleges for Veterans.
Accredited by CCNE, LaSalle University RN to BSN online program also offers a unique, RN to BSN to MSN option, designed for nurses who may have a MSN in their professional goals. The RN to BSN program is geared to develop and refine critical-thinking skills and may be completed in approximately 13 months. Coursework includes study in 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.
Length of Program: 52 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $555 per credit hour
22. Villanova College of Nursing
Located just outside of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Villanova University is a Catholic school, named for the Spanish Augustinian St. Thomas of Villanova, and is still affiliated with the Augustinian Order. The school was established in 1842. Today, Villanova is a fully accredited university offering bachelor’s degrees in 53 fields and graduate degrees in 35 areas. It has a total undergraduate enrollment of 7,118 and Villanova University’s ranks #1 in the U.S. News and World Report’s 2016 edition of Best Colleges is Regional Universities (North). Villanova offered a BSN in nursing education in the 1930s through it’s Liberal Arts College before establishing the College of Nursing in the 1950s. In October 2004, the College of Nursing was designated a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education by the National League for Nursing (NLN) and only one of three in the country to be so named.
The Villanova College of Nursing RN to BSN program is accredited by CCNE and is also as a provider of continuing nursing education by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Commission on Accreditation. The College of Nursing has been awarded a prestigious designation of being a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education by the National League for Nursing (NLN). Coursework included in this degree are: 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. This online program is designed for currently working, 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
23. University of Illinois-Chicago School of Nursing
This Chicago based school ranks 1st in the nation in student engagement and 4th nationally overall by U.S. News & World Report. The School of Nursing graduated its first class in 1954 and has grown to be one of the premier nursing programs in the country. The Chicago School of Nursing consistently is recognized in the top tier of colleges in nursing research funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and accredited by CCNE and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). The RN to BSN online program is offered through UIC’s School of Continuing Studies and is 100% online. Applications are accepted at any time during the year with cohorts for the RN-BSN online degree completion program starting in January and August of each year. Full-time and part-time enrollment is available. Full-time enrollment will allow you to complete the program in approximately 16 months. The program is specifically designed for currently practicing nurses with RN licenses.
Nurses enrolling in the UIC RN to BSN degree receive 33 proficiency credit hours by virtue of being working, licensed nurses. The online curriculum consists of 30 credit hours in Health Assessment and Communication, Concepts and Processes in Contemporary Nursing, Introduction to Nursing Informatics, Introduction to Research and Statistics for Evidence Based Practice, Caring in Professional Nursing, Nursing Care Populations, Nursing Leadership and Management in Healthcare and Issues in Nursing Practice. Application for the online RN to BSN program includes: a completed UIC application and non-refundable $50 fee, official transcripts from all prior colleges or universities attended, an overall GPA of 2.75 and current, US issued, RN license.
Length of Program: 30 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $650 per credit hour
24. University of Miami
Located in Miami, Florida, UM was chartered in 1925, when the south Florida development was just beginning. Today, the school boasts an enrollment of over 16,000 undergraduate and graduate students, with 115 bachelors 104 masters and 63 doctoral degrees. The University of Miami has enjoyed being ranked in the top 50 in U.S. News & World Report’s annual Best Colleges ratings; and, in the 2015 report, UM was ranked No. 48 in the National Universities category. In 1948, The University of Miami established the first nursing program in South Florida. Over the past 60 years, the curriculum has grown to include programs leading to the B.S.N., M.S.N., and Ph.D. degrees as well as the B.S. in Health Science degree. UM offers an online RN to BSN degree for working nurses wishing to expand their career.
The online UM RN to BSN degree awards 30 additional credit hours at no tuition cost based on the student’s RN license, provides didactic courses online and provides for clinical requirements to be met at a convenient site for the student. This program allows for up to 60 transferable credits for prerequisite work, with a “C” average or above, in courses including English Composition I and II, Statitics, 9 credits in Arts and Humanities and 9 credits in People and Society. These course must be from an accredited institution and RNs may complete the BSN in 5 consecutive semesters (30 credit hours). The program is accredited by CCNE.
Length of Program: 60 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $750 per credit hour
25. Northeastern University Bouve College of Health Sciences
This research university began in 1898 with the improbable name of the Evening Institute for Younger Men in Boston, Massachusetts, the school was incorporated into the state university system in 1916 as Northeastern College. Today, the school offers ten colleges, with eight of those offering online degree programs. The Bouve College of Health Sciences provides a RN to BSN online program which allows licensed Registered Nurses advance their nursing career in as few as three semesters. The program consists of an online format and comprehensive curriculum. Participation in the Northeastern University Bouve College of Nursing RN-to-BSN program can be part-time or full-time with completion expected within 2 years (six semesters). An unrestricted and active RN license in the state where you will complete a 66 hour clinical experience in public health/community nursing is required for program eligibility.
Accredited by CCNE, Bouve College of health Sciences has been ranked #47 by U.S. News and World Report as one of its Best Colleges in National Universities, #38 Best Colleges for Veterans and #54 in Best Nursing Schools for its Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. The RN-to-BSN program requires sixteen semester hours of residency credit followed by twenty-nine semester hours of in-depth, advanced nursing courses. Residency courses focus on writing, ethics and communication in the health professions as well as pathophysiology. The advanced nursing component of the curriculum addresses the professional and leadership role with an emphasis on the utilization of research, evidence, and informatics.
Length of Program: 45 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost: $764 per credit hour