Top RN to BSN Programs in Virginia

Top RN to BSN Programs in Virginia
Jake Flannigan, NP

Jake Flannigan, NP

June 19, 2025

RN to BSN programs at Virginia universities offer registered nurses with associate degrees or diplomas a pathway to finish their Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The programs in Virginia were created to help nursing professionals advance their professional development through enhanced clinical expertise together with leadership and research education. 

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2026 Top RN to BSN Programs in Virginia

At TopNursing.org, we've carefully evaluated and ranked the best RN to BSN programs across Virginia, helping nursing professionals advance their careers with confidence. Our comprehensive analysis considers crucial factors like academic quality, student support, clinical opportunities, and graduate success rates. Virginia offers exceptional pathways for registered nurses seeking to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing, with programs designed to enhance clinical skills, expand career opportunities, and prepare nurses for leadership roles in healthcare. These top-tier institutions provide flexible learning options, including online and hybrid formats, to accommodate working nurses' busy schedules. Our rankings reflect rigorous research and commitment to helping nurses make informed educational choices. Learn more about our ranking methodology.
#1

University of Virginia's College at Wise

Wise, VA - Public 4-Year - uvawise.edu

Bachelor's - RN to BSN Program

Online Learning - Visit Website

The RN to BSN Program offers registered nurses with diploma or associate degrees a pathway to advance their nursing education. This online program enables working nurses to enhance their professional credentials and expand career opportunities without interrupting their current employment. Designed for flexibility, the program helps nurses build advanced clinical knowledge, leadership skills, and prepare for higher-level nursing roles. Students can complete general education requirements and leverage their existing nursing experience toward a comprehensive bachelor's degree.

  • Online RN to BSN Program
  • For RNs with diploma/associate degree
  • Application deadline August 1st
  • Requires active RN license
  • Must complete general education courses
#2

University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA - Public 4-Year - virginia.edu

Bachelor's - RN to BSN Hybrid Program

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Virginia's RN to BSN Hybrid Program offers working nurses a flexible pathway to advance their careers and expand their professional capabilities. In just two years of part-time study, registered nurses can earn a prestigious BSN from Virginia's top-ranked nursing program. The innovative hybrid model combines monthly in-person classes with online learning, accommodating busy healthcare professionals. With comprehensive coursework covering informatics, leadership, research, and public health, students gain advanced skills to elevate their nursing practice. Financial support is robust, with 6 in 10 students receiving full tuition coverage and numerous scholarship opportunities.

  • Virginia's #1 nursing program
  • Two-year part-time hybrid program
  • Monthly in-person classes
  • 42 advanced standing credits
  • Extensive financial aid options
  • Peer mentoring program
  • Three campus locations
  • No direct clinical hours
  • Online learning complement
  • Professional leadership focus
#3

University of Mary Washington

Fredericksburg, VA - Public 4-Year - umw.edu

Bachelor's - Nursing (BSN) Degree Completion Program

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Mary Washington's BSN Degree Completion Program offers registered nurses a strategic pathway to advance their healthcare careers. Designed for RNs with associate degrees, this hybrid program blends online and in-person learning, enabling students to complete their bachelor's degree in just one year. With a curriculum emphasizing clinical reasoning, cultural sensitivity, and evidence-based practice, graduates gain comprehensive skills to excel in complex healthcare environments. The program requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and provides 41 transfer credits for prior nursing education, making it an accessible and efficient option for professional development.

  • Hybrid online/distance learning format
  • One year full-time completion
  • 41 transfer credits for RNs
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
  • Located at Stafford Campus
  • Eight-week course blocks
  • Liberal arts integration
  • Career advancement focused
#4

Norfolk State University

Norfolk, VA - Public 4-Year - nsu.edu

Bachelor's - RN to BSN Online

Online Learning - Visit Website

Norfolk State University's RN to BSN Online program provides registered nurses a flexible pathway to advance their nursing career. Designed for working professionals, this 9-18 month program transforms experienced nurses into community leaders and lifelong learners. Students can complete the program online while maintaining their current employment, enhancing their professional credentials and opening doors to career advancement opportunities.

  • 9-18 month online program
  • Competitive post-licensure track
  • 2.5 cumulative GPA required
  • Virginia RN license mandatory
  • Community leadership focus
#5

Longwood University

Farmville, VA - Public 4-Year - longwood.edu

Bachelor's - RN to BSN

Online Learning - Visit Website

Longwood University's RN to BSN online program offers registered nurses a flexible pathway to advance their nursing career. Designed for working professionals, the program allows full-time and part-time options with seven-week blocked courses. Students can complete the degree in three to five semesters, gaining professional skills and increasing earning potential. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, the curriculum develops critical nursing competencies and prepares students for future graduate studies.

  • Fully online flexible program
  • CCNE accredited nursing degree
  • Seven-week course blocks
  • Part-time and full-time options
  • Minimum 2.5 GPA required
  • RN licensure required
  • Public college tuition rates
  • Small class sizes
  • Professional development focus
*Information sourced from the NCES Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (2023).

Program Curriculum & Length

Length

Curriculum

Nursing Research
Public Health Nursing
Pharmacology
Pathophysiology
Healthcare Ethics and Law
Nutrition

Clinical Rotations

Are Online RN to BSN Programs Available in Virginia

The state of Virginia presents multiple RN to BSN program options including online programs as well as hybrid and in-person learning formats. Working nurses benefit from the online RN to BSN programs which several Virginia universities provide. Students who enroll in hybrid programs study both online and participate in occasional in-person meetings which combine convenience with practical learning experience. The educational programs provide evening and weekend classes to help students manage their work commitments. Some educational institutions provide fast-track options for their RN to BSN programs so students can finish their studies within a condensed period. Online and hybrid formats work best for RNs who require flexibility during their pursuit of BSN education. The wide range of program choices enables nurses to discover programs that align with their professional objectives and personal schedules.

2026 Fastest RN to BSN Program Options in Virginia

Nurses across Virginia, from bustling Northern Virginia suburbs to coastal Hampton Roads, are seeking the fastest pathways to advance their nursing credentials. RN to BSN programs offer working healthcare professionals an efficient route to expand their career opportunities and earning potential. These accelerated educational tracks help registered nurses quickly transition from associate degrees to bachelor's level qualifications. With increasingly competitive healthcare job markets, professionals want programs that minimize time away from work while maximizing educational outcomes. The following table highlights top Virginia nursing programs that provide streamlined educational experiences, showcasing key metrics like graduation and retention rates that demonstrate program quality and student success potential.
School NameHighlightsRetention & Grad Rates
University of Mary Washington
  • Hybrid online/distance learning format
  • One year full-time completion
  • 41 transfer credits for RNs
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
  • Located at Stafford Campus
  • Eight-week course blocks
  • Liberal arts integration
  • Career advancement focused
  • Graduation Rate: 67%
  • Retention Rate: 82%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Emory & Henry University
  • Online RN-BSN degree program
  • Accredited by CCNE
  • Flexible full-time/part-time tracks
  • Three-semester accelerated option
  • Focuses on critical healthcare skills
  • Application fee $60
  • Located in Southwest Virginia
  • Graduation Rate: 54%
  • Retention Rate: 69%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Mary Baldwin University
  • Online flexible program
  • 12-month minimum completion
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing
  • Career advancement opportunities
  • Enhances clinical knowledge
  • Graduation Rate: 56%
  • Retention Rate: 61%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
*Reference: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023 data system.

Admission Requirements

Active RN License 
 Current, unencumbered RN license in the state of practice
Associate Degree or Diploma in Nursing 
 Graduation from an accredited nursing program (ACEN or NLNAC)
Official Transcripts 
 From all previously attended colleges or universities
Minimum GPA 
 Typically 2.5 to 3.0 cumulative GPA
Completed Prerequisites 
 Courses such as English Composition, Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Statistics, Psychology or Sociology, and Nutrition
Background Check and Immunizations 
 Required for practicum or community health experiences

Certification and Licensing

Certifying BoardVirginia Board of Nursing
CertificationGraduate of an approved BSN, submit transcripts, pass NCLEX‑RN, complete fingerprint‑based FBI background check
License Renewal PeriodExpires on your birth month every two years, renew biennially
Continuing Education30 contact hours biennially or 15 hours plus 640 practice hours, with alternate options like specialty certification or academic credit
License Application Fee$190 application, $200 NCLEX registration, and about $36 fingerprint background check
Clinical HoursSupervised practice in adult health, pediatrics, maternal‑newborn, psychiatric‑mental health, and community health per BSN program standards
Application Processing TimeUp to 30 business days for application review and ATT issuance, NCLEX results and licensure posted within 48 hours of exam
License by EndorsementOnline application with $190 endorsement fee, license verification via NURSYS, transcripts, fingerprint check, and CE compliance

Salary and Job Outlook

The RN to BSN graduates in Virginia will benefit from a positive job outlook since the national registered nurse employment rate is expected to rise by 6%. The demand for BSN-prepared nurses will grow in Virginia especially in Northern Virginia and Richmond urban areas. The average annual salary for RNs in Virginia is $88,350 while BSN nurses typically earn higher salaries especially when they work in leadership positions or specialized fields. The highest demand for BSN nurses exists in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community health organizations across Virginia. The BSN degree enables RNs to access better career prospects together with leadership positions and high-paying employment opportunities throughout the state.

Salary & Career OutlookVirginiaUSA
Avg Annual BSN Salary$75,562$62,340
Avg Hourly Wage$36.00$29.97
90th Percentile Salary$93,562$80,510
Median Salary$67,780$62,340
10th Percentile Salary$60,696$47,960
Projected Job Growth (2022-2032)6%3%
Annual Job Openings~194,500~54,000

2026 Affordable RN to BSN Program Options in Virginia

Pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in Virginia opens exciting opportunities for registered nurses seeking career advancement. For healthcare professionals across Richmond, Norfolk, and Northern Virginia, finding affordable programs is crucial for continuing education. These RN to BSN pathways provide flexible learning options that help nurses upgrade their credentials without overwhelming financial burden. By selecting cost-effective programs, nurses can enhance their professional qualifications, increase potential earnings, and expand their clinical knowledge. The following table highlights key Virginia institutions offering accessible nursing education, showcasing tuition ranges and unique program features that make advancing your nursing degree both achievable and smart.
School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Virginia State University
  • 100% Online Coursework
  • Part-time Flexible Schedule
  • Five-semester Curriculum
  • Affordable Pay-by-course Tuition
  • Prepares for Advanced Nursing Roles
  • $7,800 - $11,700 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $17,600 - $26,400 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Longwood University
  • Fully online flexible program
  • CCNE accredited nursing degree
  • Seven-week course blocks
  • Part-time and full-time options
  • Minimum 2.5 GPA required
  • RN licensure required
  • Public college tuition rates
  • Small class sizes
  • $12,200 - $18,200 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $21,900 - $32,900 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Regent University
  • Online CCNE-accredited nursing program
  • 120 total credit hours
  • Competitive per-credit tuition
  • Christian worldview integration
  • Leadership skill development
  • Flexible online learning format
  • Practice immersion experiences
  • $16,500 - $24,800 (Undergraduate)
*Data reference: NCES IPEDS 2023 Final Release.

Advancement Pathways

The BSN provides Virginia nurses with multiple career progression opportunities. BSN-educated nurses qualify for leadership and management positions including charge nurse, nurse manager, and clinical educator roles. BSN graduates who meet the requirements can get public health, pediatric practice, and nursing administration certifications. The degree serves as a starting point for students to pursue master’s and doctoral nursing programs. Nurses who want to become nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists or nurse anesthetists must first obtain their BSN degree before pursuing advanced practice certifications. The advanced knowledge and abilities from BSN education help nurses move up in their current positions or start new specialties that require more responsibility along with increased earning potential.

List of RN to BSN Programs in Virginia

Jump to City:

Bluefield, VA

Bluefield University

  • Bachelor's - RN-BSN

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid learning format
    • 12-15 months completion
    • $395 per credit hour
    • CCNE accredited program
    • No GRE/GMAT required
    • National average BSN salary $86,070
    • 12 undergraduate courses
    • Flexible online options

Charlottesville, VA

University of Virginia

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN Hybrid Program

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Virginia's #1 nursing program
    • Two-year part-time hybrid program
    • Monthly in-person classes
    • 42 advanced standing credits
    • Extensive financial aid options
    • Peer mentoring program
    • Three campus locations
    • No direct clinical hours

Danville, VA

Averett University

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid learning format
    • For licensed RNs
    • Liberal arts foundation
    • Minimum 2.0 GPA required
    • Professional development focus
    • Advanced nursing concepts
    • Healthcare leadership training
    • Interdisciplinary curriculum

Emory, VA

Emory & Henry University

  • Bachelor's - Nursing RN-BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online RN-BSN degree program
    • Accredited by CCNE
    • Flexible full-time/part-time tracks
    • Three-semester accelerated option
    • Focuses on critical healthcare skills
    • Application fee $60
    • Located in Southwest Virginia

Farmville, VA

Longwood University

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online flexible program
    • CCNE accredited nursing degree
    • Seven-week course blocks
    • Part-time and full-time options
    • Minimum 2.5 GPA required
    • RN licensure required
    • Public college tuition rates
    • Small class sizes

Fredericksburg, VA

University of Mary Washington

  • Bachelor's - Nursing (BSN) Degree Completion Program

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid online/distance learning format
    • One year full-time completion
    • 41 transfer credits for RNs
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
    • Located at Stafford Campus
    • Eight-week course blocks
    • Liberal arts integration
    • Career advancement focused

Norfolk, VA

Norfolk State University

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN Online

    Online Learning - Website

    • 9-18 month online program
    • Competitive post-licensure track
    • 2.5 cumulative GPA required
    • Virginia RN license mandatory
    • Community leadership focus

Old Dominion University

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format
    • 33 free experiential credits
    • Full-time/part-time options
    • Prepares for advanced nursing roles
    • Departmental GPA 3.0 minimum

Petersburg, VA

Virginia State University

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN Online Completion Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Coursework
    • Part-time Flexible Schedule
    • Five-semester Curriculum
    • Affordable Pay-by-course Tuition
    • Prepares for Advanced Nursing Roles

Radford, VA

Radford University

  • Bachelor's - RN-to-BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online program
    • 7-week course sessions
    • Flexible for working RNs
    • Two admission pathway options
    • Enhance nursing leadership skills

Richmond, VA

Virginia Commonwealth University

  • Bachelor's - RN to B.S. in Nursing

    Online Learning - Website

    • Six-semester part-time online program
    • Three annual start dates
    • Ranked #39 nursing program nationwide
    • Flexible learning plan
    • Preparation for diverse healthcare settings
    • Co-enrollment option available
    • Guaranteed admission from partner schools
    • Scholarship opportunities

Staunton, VA

Mary Baldwin University

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online flexible program
    • 12-month minimum completion
    • Bachelor of Science in Nursing
    • Career advancement opportunities
    • Enhances clinical knowledge

Virginia Beach, VA

Bryant & Stratton College-Virginia Beach

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Flexible Program
    • 122 Total Credit Hours
    • 40 Months Approximate Length
    • No On-Campus Requirements
    • CCNE Accredited Program
    • 135 Clinical Hours Required
    • Available in Most States
    • Career Advancement Focus

Regent University

  • Bachelor's - RN to B.S. in Nursing

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online CCNE-accredited nursing program
    • 120 total credit hours
    • Competitive per-credit tuition
    • Christian worldview integration
    • Leadership skill development
    • Flexible online learning format
    • Practice immersion experiences

Wise, VA

University of Virginia's College at Wise

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online RN to BSN Program
    • For RNs with diploma/associate degree
    • Application deadline August 1st
    • Requires active RN license
    • Must complete general education courses
*Source: U.S. DOE, IPEDS 2023.