RN To BSN Programs

Olivia Chen, NP
May 20, 2025
On this page
Top RN to BSN Programs
RN to BSN programs are specially designed for licensed Registered Nurses (RNs) who currently hold an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a nursing diploma and are looking to advance their education by earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). These bridge programs recognize the clinical skills and real-world experience RNs bring to the table and build upon that foundation with a deeper emphasis on academic and professional growth. Students in RN to BSN programs study advanced topics such as leadership in nursing, evidence-based practice, health policy, community and public health, nursing research, and healthcare systems. The curriculum is tailored to expand critical thinking, communication, and decision-making skills—essential for navigating today’s complex healthcare environments. In addition to opening doors to higher salaries and greater job stability, completing a BSN also positions nurses for upward mobility into leadership, education, or specialized clinical roles. It also lays the groundwork for pursuing graduate education, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), which are often required for nurse practitioner, educator, or administrative pathways.
Choosing The Right Program
- Accreditation (CCNE or ACEN)
- 100% Online vs. Hybrid Format
- Credit Transfer Policies
- Affordability and Tuition Options
- Flexible Scheduling and Pacing
- Faculty Experience and Student Support
- Capstone or Practicum Requirements
- Reputation and NCLEX Pass Rate (if new grads allowed)
- Graduate Success and Job Placement Rates
2026 Top-Ranked RN to BSN Programs
West Chester University of Pennsylvania
West Chester, PA - Public 4-Year - wcupa.edu
Bachelor's - RN-to-BSN Program
Online Learning - Visit Website
West Chester University's RN-to-BSN online program revolutionizes nursing education by offering an accelerated pathway for licensed RNs seeking professional advancement. Uniquely structured with a CCNE-accredited curriculum, the program emphasizes comprehensive skill development in professional communication, research methodologies, healthcare ethics, and leadership strategies. Students benefit from a flexible, asynchronous learning environment that enables completion in just two semesters. The program's innovative approach allows acceptance of CLEP credits and waives transfer credit charges, making it an economically attractive option. With a minimum 2.75 GPA requirement, the program strategically prepares nurses to excel in evolving healthcare landscapes, focusing on population health and advanced clinical competencies.
- CCNE-accredited nursing program
- Complete BSN in two semesters
- 100% online asynchronous format
- No charge for transfer credits
- CLEP credits accepted
- Minimum 2.75 GPA required
- 120 total credits needed
- 7-week course sessions
- Year-round course offerings
Bachelor's - BSN for the Registered Nurse
Online Learning - Visit Website
Designed for working healthcare professionals, West Chester University's online BSN program delivers a transformative educational experience for registered nurses. This CCNE-accredited curriculum offers unprecedented flexibility, enabling students to complete their degree in minimal time while maintaining professional commitments. The program distinguishes itself through personalized learning paths, requiring only 30 new credits from WCU and recognizing prior academic achievements. Coursework comprehensively covers critical domains including professional communication, health policy, research principles, and leadership development. With year-round course offerings and an asynchronous format, nurses can strategically enhance their clinical knowledge and career prospects without disrupting their current professional responsibilities.
- 100% online program
- Complete in two semesters
- CCNE-accredited nursing program
- No transfer credit charges
- Minimum 2.75 GPA required
- Asynchronous course format
- Year-round course offerings
- CLEP credits accepted
Bachelor's - RN-to-BSN
Online Learning - Visit Website
West Chester University's RN-to-BSN program presents a sophisticated online educational pathway for registered nurses seeking advanced professional credentials. Meticulously designed to accommodate working professionals, the program enables rapid degree completion within two semesters. The curriculum adheres to AACN baccalaureate standards, emphasizing critical thinking, technological competencies, and comprehensive nursing skills. Students explore nuanced topics including professional communication, healthcare ethics, research methodologies, and policy implementation. With a competitive 2.75 GPA admission requirement and no transfer credit fees, the program offers an accessible route to educational advancement. The CCNE-accredited program strategically prepares nurses for expanded healthcare roles through a dynamic, technology-enhanced learning environment.
- CCNE-accredited nursing program
- 100% online asynchronous format
- Complete in two semesters
- No transfer credit fees
- CLEP credits accepted
- Minimum 2.75 GPA required
- 120 total credits needed
- 7-week course sessions
- Year-round course availability
- Multiple nursing course options
University of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, OH - Public 4-Year - uc.edu
Bachelor's - RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Cincinnati's RN to BSN Online program offers a transformative educational journey for working registered nurses seeking career advancement. Tailored for associate degree holders, this fully online curriculum enables seamless degree completion without clinical interruptions. With a streamlined nine-course structure, students can finish their bachelor's degree within 9-18 months. The program's accessibility is enhanced by six annual start dates, CCNE accreditation, and an affordable tuition rate of $564 per credit hour. Its interprofessional approach prepares nurses for diverse healthcare settings, offering flexibility through online delivery and multiple specialization options.
- 100% online program
- No clinical requirements
- Only 9 nursing courses
- Six annual start dates
- CCNE accredited program
- Flexible completion time
- Easy credit transfer
- Public Health Nursing option
- Nurse Educator track available
- Interprofessional curriculum
Bachelor's - RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Public Health Nursing - Online Learning - Visit Website
Specializing in Public Health Nursing, the University of Cincinnati's RN to BSN Online program provides a comprehensive pathway for registered nurses to expand their professional horizons. This concentration emphasizes population health, community wellness, and preventative care strategies. Designed for working professionals, the fully online curriculum allows completion in 9-18 months without traditional clinical requirements. The program's evidence-based approach, six annual start dates, and CCNE accreditation ensure high-quality educational standards. Students benefit from an interprofessional curriculum that prepares them for advanced roles in public health and community nursing sectors.
- 100% online program
- No clinical requirements
- 9 nursing courses total
- Six annual start dates
- Public Health Nursing option
- CCNE accredited program
- Flexible completion timeline
- Tuition $564 per credit hour
- Transfer credits accepted
- Evidence-based curriculum
Bachelor's - RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Nurse Educator - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Cincinnati's Nurse Educator track offers a specialized RN to BSN online program designed to cultivate future nursing educators and leaders. This innovative curriculum prepares registered nurses to transition into academic and instructional roles within healthcare education. With a concise nine-course structure and no clinical requirements, students can complete their bachelor's degree in as little as nine months. The CCNE-accredited program emphasizes evidence-based teaching methodologies, interprofessional collaboration, and advanced pedagogical skills. Flexible online delivery and multiple start dates accommodate working professionals seeking to expand their educational and professional capabilities.
- 100% online program
- No clinical requirements
- Nine nursing courses total
- Six annual start dates
- Nurse Educator track available
- CCNE accredited program
- Flexible completion timelines
- Part-time and full-time options
- $564 per credit hour
- Tuition guaranteed for four years
Auburn University
Auburn, AL - Public 4-Year - auburn.edu
Bachelor's - Nursing, RN to BSN
Online Learning - Visit Website
Auburn University's RN to BSN online program revolutionizes nursing education by offering registered nurses an accelerated pathway to enhance their professional credentials. The strategically designed curriculum supports working professionals through a flexible three-semester track, enabling students with an active RN license to seamlessly transition into advanced nursing roles. By emphasizing evidence-based practice, population health, and leadership development, the program allows nurses to earn up to 37 transfer credits while maintaining their current employment. Applicants must hold an unencumbered RN license and maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA throughout their academic journey.
- Online flexible program
- Three-semester completion time
- 37 potential transfer credits
- Minimum 2.5 GPA required
- Current RN license needed
- Upper division nursing courses
- Professional nursing development
- Holistic health approach
- Evidence-based practice focus
- Leadership skill development
Bachelor's - Concurrent BSN
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Auburn University's Concurrent BSN program delivers an innovative educational experience for associate degree nurses seeking comprehensive professional development. This hybrid learning model accommodates working healthcare professionals, enabling them to complete their bachelor's degree within three semesters. The curriculum strategically integrates holistic nursing principles, evidence-based methodologies, and advanced leadership training. Students benefit from flexible scheduling, potential transfer credits, and a robust educational framework designed to expand clinical competencies. Admission requires current RN licensure, prerequisite course completion, and maintaining a minimum 2.5 GPA, ensuring a rigorous yet supportive academic environment.
- Three-semester completion time
- Hybrid program format
- Minimum 2.5 GPA required
- 37 potential transfer credits
- Professional nursing skill development
- Current RN license mandatory
- Two track options available
- Clinical practice hours included
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, UT - Public 4-Year - utah.edu
Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Visit Website
Tailored for licensed nurses seeking career advancement, the University of Utah's online RN to BSN program provides a comprehensive 30-credit curriculum emphasizing health promotion and complex healthcare systems. Engineered for working professionals, the program delivers flexible learning opportunities with competitive $400 per credit tuition. Students explore critical nursing competencies, develop leadership skills, and prepare for expanded professional roles. The program prioritizes accessibility, requiring an associate degree in nursing, active RN licensure, and a minimum 3.0 GPA. Multiple start terms and a clinical capstone experience enable nurses to seamlessly integrate academic growth with professional development.
- 30 total credits required
- Fully online program format
- $400 per credit tuition
- Geriatric Nursing Leadership emphasis
- Multiple start terms: Fall/Spring/Summer
- Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
- Nine prerequisite courses needed
- Designed for working RNs
- Clinical capstone in fourth semester
Bachelor's - RN to BSN Geriatric Nursing Leadership
Concentration: Geriatric Nursing Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
Specializing in geriatric nursing leadership, the University of Utah's RN to BSN online program equips registered nurses with advanced clinical expertise and specialized elder care knowledge. This meticulously designed 30-credit curriculum focuses on cultural competence, innovative healthcare practices, and leadership development for aging population management. Priced at $400 per credit, the program supports working professionals seeking meaningful career progression. Graduates gain comprehensive skills in case management, clinical leadership, and patient education, positioning themselves for diverse healthcare roles and potential advanced nursing degree pathways.
- Online flexible format
- 30 credit hours required
- $400 per credit tuition
- Geriatric nursing concentration
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Current RN license needed
- Multiple start terms available
- Clinical capstone experience
- Leadership skill development
- Career advancement opportunities
The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL - Public 4-Year - ua.edu
Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Alabama's RN to BSN online program empowers registered nurses to elevate their professional trajectory through a strategically designed curriculum. Spanning just 25 nursing credit hours, the program offers remarkable flexibility for working professionals seeking academic advancement. Students benefit from comprehensive coursework in critical domains like healthcare informatics, evidence-based practice, and complex client systems. The program's distinctive attributes include year-round application acceptance, no mandatory ACT/SAT requirements, and an accessible tuition rate of $385 per credit hour. With CCNE accreditation and a 2.5 GPA prerequisite, nurses can efficiently transform their associate's degree into a robust bachelor's qualification.
- Online flexible format
- 25 nursing credit hours
- $385 per credit hour
- Accredited nursing program
- Year-round application acceptance
- RN licensure required
- No ACT/SAT scores needed
- 2.5 GPA prerequisite
- Annual background check
- Total 126 graduation credits
Bachelor's - RN to BSN/MSN Nurse Executive
Concentration: Nurse Executive - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Alabama's RN to BSN/MSN Nurse Executive program provides a dynamic educational pathway for ambitious nursing professionals. This accelerated online track enables seamless progression from BSN to MSN with specialized leadership training in healthcare management. Uniquely structured to accommodate working nurses, the program allows students to complete both degrees efficiently, with the BSN awarded after four semesters. Featuring comprehensive leadership development, the program requires 180 clinical hours and maintains a 3.0 GPA minimum. With competitive tuition rates and full CCNE accreditation, nurses can strategically advance their executive healthcare career without disrupting professional commitments.
- Fully online program
- 50-56 total credit hours
- Bachelor's tuition $385/hour
- Master's tuition $440/hour
- RN license required
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- No campus attendance
- Early graduate admission
- 180 clinical hours required
- CCNE accredited program
Northeastern University
Boston, MA - Private 4-year - northeastern.edu
Bachelor's - RN-to-BSN Program
Online Learning - Visit Website
Northeastern University's RN-to-BSN Program empowers registered nurses to elevate their professional trajectory through a strategically designed online curriculum. Tailored for working healthcare professionals, the program offers unprecedented flexibility, enabling completion in one year full-time or two years part-time. Featuring over 200 interactive digital learning activities, students gain advanced clinical reasoning skills and comprehensive healthcare insights. The program strategically prepares nurses for emerging healthcare challenges, aligning with industry projections of an 80% increase in baccalaureate-prepared nursing professionals. Military-friendly and career-focused, this program represents an optimal pathway for RNs seeking accelerated academic and professional growth.
- Online flexible degree completion
- Part-time or full-time options
- Over 200 online learning activities
- Supports career advancement
- Designed for working RNs
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
Tallahassee, FL - Public 4-Year - famu.edu
Bachelor's - RN-BSN Program
Online Learning - Visit Website
Florida A&M University's RN-BSN online program offers registered nurses an innovative pathway to advance their nursing credentials. As a historically Black university (HBCU), the program provides a unique educational experience tailored for working professionals. Students can complete the curriculum in three semesters full-time or five semesters part-time, with 30 credit hours required at FAMU. The program stands out by offering credit for prior nursing education, preparing graduates for potential graduate nursing study, and emphasizing flexible, asynchronous learning to accommodate busy healthcare professionals. No specific entrance exam requirements are mentioned for this RN-BSN program.
- Online asynchronous courses
- Complete in 3 semesters full-time
- Credit for prior nursing education
- Nationally accredited program
- Full or part-time study options
- 30 credit hours at FAMU required
- Prepares for graduate nursing study
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL - Public 4-Year - ufl.edu
Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Florida's innovative RN to BSN online program provides a dynamic educational pathway for practicing registered nurses seeking career advancement. Tailored for RNs holding an associate's degree, this comprehensive curriculum emphasizes developing sophisticated analytical and leadership competencies. With 90 clinical hours integrated through virtual simulations and community-based experiences, students can enhance their professional skills without interrupting current employment. The program boasts military-friendly status and maintains an accessible minimum 2.8 GPA requirement. Graduates are strategically positioned to excel across diverse healthcare environments and potentially pursue advanced graduate nursing education.
- Fully online, part-time program
- Requires active RN license
- 90 total clinical hours
- Minimum 2.8 GPA requirement
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL - Public 4-Year - ucf.edu
Bachelor's - Nursing, RN to BSN
Online Learning - Visit Website
University of Central Florida's RN to BSN online program provides a dynamic educational pathway for licensed registered nurses seeking professional advancement. Strategically designed for working healthcare professionals, the 62-credit hour curriculum emphasizes comprehensive nursing practice, research methodologies, and leadership development. Students benefit from flexible remote learning that accommodates current nursing roles while gaining advanced clinical insights. The program's competitive in-state tuition of $212.28 per credit hour makes it an accessible option for career progression. With a required minimum 2.5 GPA, students engage in professional skill enhancement through innovative coursework and community-based clinical experiences. Military-friendly policies and multiple program track options further distinguish this comprehensive nursing education opportunity.
- Fully online RN to BSN program
- $212.28 in-state per credit
- Requires licensed RN status
- 62 total credit hours
- Minimum 2.5 GPA required
- Clinical practice in home community
- Professional nursing skill development
- Multiple program track options
CUNY Hunter College
New York, NY - Public 4-Year - hunter.cuny.edu
Bachelor's - RN-to-BS Nursing Program
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
CUNY Hunter College's RN-to-BS Nursing Program offers a transformative educational pathway for registered nurses seeking advanced professional development. This innovative hybrid program uniquely blends online nursing major courses with flexible scheduling, accommodating both part-time and full-time students. Designed specifically for nurses holding an associate's degree, the curriculum emphasizes comprehensive healthcare skills, integrating liberal arts with professional nursing education. Graduates emerge prepared for leadership roles, having developed advanced competencies in research methodology, ethical practice, and community wellness. With competitive CUNY tuition and a rigorous academic framework requiring a 3.2 GPA and current New York State RN licensure, students benefit from a program that strategically bridges clinical experience with academic advancement, positioning them for future graduate nursing studies and enhanced career opportunities.
- Hybrid program with online nursing courses
- Requires 3.2 GPA minimum
- 120 total credits required
- Part-time and full-time options
- Accredited nursing program
- No foreign language requirement
- Fall and spring admissions
- Online nursing major courses
- Liberal arts transfer credits accepted
- Prepares for graduate nursing study
Who Is an RN To BSN Program For?
-
ADN or Diploma-Holding RNs
Ideal for nurses ready to expand their scope and meet growing employer expectations. -
Career-Minded Nurses
Great for those seeking leadership, administrative, or specialty nursing roles. -
RNs Planning for Graduate School
A BSN is often a prerequisite for advanced practice, education, or DNP programs. -
Nurses in Magnet Hospitals
Many Magnet-status facilities require or strongly prefer BSN-prepared nurses. -
Professionals Wanting Flexibility
Many RN to BSN programs are offered fully online to accommodate working nurses. -
Veterans or Returning Nurses
A great re-entry point for those updating credentials or transitioning roles.
Find RN To BSN Programs by State
Types of Institutions Offering RN To BSN Programs
-
Public and Private Universities
Offer fully accredited programs with academic support and alumni networks. -
Online Nursing Schools
Provide flexible, self-paced formats ideal for working professionals. -
Community Colleges with University Partnerships
Allow seamless transfer of ADN credits to a partnering BSN institution.
-
Accelerated Online Platforms
Offer condensed programs that can be completed in under 12 months. -
Military or Veteran-Focused Institutions
Provide credit for service experience and flexible learning formats.
Program Length and Timeline
Academic Schedule and Clinical Rotation
RN to BSN programs emphasize academic growth rather than basic clinical training. Courses are typically online, covering nursing research, community health, leadership, ethics, and health assessment. Some programs include capstone projects or community-based practicums, but no additional hospital-based clinicals are usually required, since students already hold RN licensure.
| Attendance Type | Regular | Accelarated | extended |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Time | 12-18 months | 8-12 months | Up to 3 Years |
| Part Time | 18-24 weeks | 12-18 weeks | Up to 3 Years |
Curriculum and Training
The RN to BSN curriculum focuses on advanced concepts in nursing theory, leadership, evidence-based practice, population health, ethics, and informatics. Students often complete a capstone project or a community health practicum, applying public health principles to real-world nursing. These programs enhance critical thinking, communication, and systems-level understanding of healthcare.
Online RN To BSN Program Availability
Most RN to BSN programs are available fully online, offering maximum flexibility for working RNs. Students complete coursework asynchronously, with optional virtual meetings, and often progress at their own pace. These programs still require strong time management and tech literacy, along with access to a computer, webcam, and internet. Practicum hours if required, can often be completed locally in a community or public health setting
Admission Requirements
Admission Requirements
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- Associate degree or diploma in nursing
- Official transcripts from previous schools
- Minimum GPA (commonly 2.5–3.0)
- Resume/CV showing clinical experience
- Personal statement or goal essay
- Proof of CPR/BLS certification
Admission Tips
- Maintain a High GPA in Your ADN Program
- Highlight Clinical and Leadership Experience
- Submit Strong Letters of Recommendation
- Craft a Clear, Goal-Focused Personal Statement
- Stay Current on CPR and Immunizations
- Take Extra Courses in Writing or Statistics If Needed
Financial Aid & Funding Options
- Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
- Employer Tuition Reimbursement Programs
- University Scholarships or Nursing Fellowships
- Nurse Corps or Public Health Loan Forgiveness
- State-Based Tuition Support for Working RNs
- Military Education Benefits
- Payment Plans or Deferred Billing Options
- Nursing Association Grants and Awards
RN To BSN Certifications
RN to BSN programs do not require a new licensing exam. Students enter with their RN license already in place. However, earning a BSN can qualify graduates for specialty certifications through organizations like the ANCC in areas such as community health, leadership, or case management. Some employers may also require continuing education or credentialing tied to specific roles.
Career Paths for RN To BSNs
- Hospitals and Acute Care Facilities
- Outpatient Clinics and Specialty Practices
- Home Health and Hospice Agencies
- Public Health Departments
- Community and Rural Health Centers
- Nursing Schools and Educational Programs
- Government or Military Medical Facilities
Salary Expectations and Job Outlook
BSN-prepared nurses typically earn $5,000–$15,000 more annually than ADN-level RNs, with the national median salary for RNs around $85,000 – $95,000. Nurses with BSNs may qualify for better-paying roles in leadership, research, public health, and management. The job outlook remains strong, with 6% growth projected through 2033, and many hospitals increasingly prefer or require BSNs for new hires and promotions.
Advancement Opportunities
-
Charge Nurse or Nurse Manager Roles
Oversees daily operations of a nursing unit, managing staff, patient care, and administrative duties. -
Specialty Certifications (e.g., Oncology, Cardiac, Public Health)
Enhances nursing expertise and credibility in focused areas of care, such as cancer, heart health, or population health. -
Clinical Educator or Preceptor
Trains and mentors nursing students or new staff by providing clinical instruction and support. -
Case Manager or Care Coordinator
Coordinates comprehensive care plans for patients to ensure smooth transitions and optimal outcomes. -
Infection Control or Quality Assurance Nurse
Works to prevent healthcare-associated infections and maintain high standards of patient safety and care quality. -
School Nurse or Community Health Nurse
Delivers health education and care in schools or community settings, focusing on prevention and wellness. -
Bridge to MSN, NP, or DNP Programs
Academic pathways that allow nurses to advance into graduate-level roles such as nurse practitioners, educators, or leaders.