Top RN to BSN Programs in Kansas

Top RN to BSN Programs in Kansas
Hannah Pierce, BSN

Hannah Pierce, BSN

June 19, 2025

The RN to BSN programs enable registered nurses who hold associate degrees or diplomas to obtain their Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Kansas requires these programs because of its rising need for an advanced nursing workforce. Nursing facilities across Kansas from country clinics to big-city hospitals now promote their nursing staff to earn BSN degrees because these degrees lead to improved patient care results and future leadership positions. 

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2026 Top RN to BSN Programs in Kansas

At TopNursing.org, we understand the critical importance of selecting the right RN to BSN program in Kansas for advancing your nursing career. Our comprehensive analysis evaluates nursing programs across the state, considering factors like academic quality, clinical training opportunities, faculty expertise, and student success rates. We've carefully researched and ranked the top RN to BSN programs that offer exceptional educational paths for registered nurses seeking to enhance their professional credentials. These programs provide flexible learning options, rigorous coursework, and strong clinical experiences that prepare nurses for advanced roles in healthcare. Our rankings reflect our commitment to helping nursing professionals make informed decisions about their educational journey. Learn more about our ranking methodology.
#1

Fort Hays State University

Hays, KS - Public 4-Year - fhsu.edu

Bachelor's - RN to BSN Program

Online Learning - Visit Website

Fort Hays State University's online RN to BSN program offers registered nurses a flexible pathway to advance their nursing career. Designed for working professionals, this 100% online program can be completed in as few as three semesters. Students gain advanced skills in leadership, critical thinking, and healthcare management. The program requires a valid RN license and offers a comprehensive curriculum covering professional roles, healthcare policy, community care, and leadership. With affordable tuition and potential advanced standing credits, nurses can efficiently earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing while maintaining their current employment.

  • 100% Online Program
  • Complete in 3 semesters
  • 30 total credit hours
  • Begins any semester
  • Valid RN license required
  • GPA requirement 2.5
  • Advanced standing credits
  • CCNE Accredited Program
#2

University of Kansas

Lawrence, KS - Public 4-Year - ku.edu

Bachelor's - RN to BSN

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Kansas offers a flexible online RN to BSN program designed for registered nurses seeking to expand their career options. Completed in one calendar year of full-time study or up to five years part-time, students can enter the program in any semester. The curriculum focuses on broadening nursing skills, particularly in leadership and critical thinking. Designed for working nurses, the program allows seamless progression from associate degree to bachelor's level nursing education.

  • Online flexible format
  • One year full-time or five years part-time
  • Entry possible each semester
  • Skill development in leadership
  • Critical thinking emphasis
#3

University of Saint Mary

Leavenworth, KS - Private 4-year - stmary.edu

Bachelor's - RN-BSN

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Saint Mary's online RN-BSN program empowers registered nurses to advance their careers through a comprehensive, flexible degree. Designed for working professionals, this CCNE-accredited program enhances nursing skills, leadership capabilities, and critical thinking. Students can complete coursework remotely, transfer up to 96 credits, and benefit from a rigorous curriculum that prepares them for expanded healthcare roles. Graduates gain competitive advantages, with potential pathways to graduate nursing programs and tuition discounts.

  • 100% Online Program
  • CCNE Accredited Nursing Program
  • Up to 96 Credits Transferable
  • 125 Total Credit Hours
  • Core Nursing Curriculum Comprehensive
  • Tuition Discount for Graduate Programs
  • Flexible for Working Nurses
#4

Pittsburg State University

Pittsburg, KS - Public 4-Year - pittstate.edu

Bachelor's - RN to BSN

Online Learning - Visit Website

Pittsburg State University's online RN to BSN program provides registered nurses a fast-tracked pathway to advance their nursing careers. Designed for working professionals, this accelerated program can be completed in as little as 12 months, offering flexibility and comprehensive skill development. Ranked #1 in Kansas, the program enhances critical thinking, expands job opportunities, and prepares nurses for leadership roles in healthcare settings. Nurses can improve patient care quality, increase earning potential, and meet evolving industry educational requirements.

  • Online program completion in 12 months
  • Fully accredited program
  • Flexible scheduling options
  • Part-time study available
  • 93.4% program retention rate
  • Upper-division courses in three semesters
  • Jumpstart option for ADN students
#5

Washburn University

Topeka, KS - Public 4-Year - washburn.edu

Bachelor's - RN-to-BSN

Online Learning - Visit Website

Washburn University's RN to BSN online program offers working nurses a flexible pathway to advance their careers. Designed for registered nurses, this 30-credit program can be completed in just 18 months through convenient 8-week online sessions. With no campus residency required, nurses can seamlessly balance work and education. The program provides opportunities to develop leadership skills, explore quality improvement strategies, and enhance nursing practices. Competitive tuition and potential financial aid make this an affordable option for professional growth. Graduates can pursue management roles, specialized nursing positions like travel or flight nursing, and benefit from a bright career outlook with an average salary of $59,940.

  • Fully online RN to BSN
  • 18-month program completion
  • No on-campus residency
  • Minimum 2.5 GPA required
  • Active RN license needed
  • 8-week course sessions
  • Previously earned credits accepted
  • #3 Kansas online RN-BSN program
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Scholarships available
*From: U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS 2023 dataset. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

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 Kansas

Kansas nurses have multiple online RN to BSN programs available to them because they offer flexible learning opportunities. The majority of these programs exist as asynchronous online programs which allow students to study independently without set class times. The flexible learning approach benefits nursing students who work non-standard shifts or live in distant locations. Online learning programs that combine virtual study with occasional face-to-face lab sessions and presentations are available as hybrid options. Educational institutions used to offer evening and weekend classes but their number decreased after online education became more popular. The accelerated format with shorter terms and year-round enrollment allows students to finish their programs more quickly. 

2026 Fastest RN to BSN Program Options in Kansas

Kansas nurses seeking to advance their careers are increasingly turning to RN to BSN programs that offer quick and efficient pathways to professional growth. The state's healthcare landscape demands skilled professionals who can complete their education swiftly while maintaining high-quality learning standards. These shortest programs provide working nurses an opportunity to elevate their credentials without spending excessive time away from their clinical roles. By focusing on accelerated educational tracks, registered nurses in metropolitan areas like Wichita, Kansas City, and Topeka can quickly transition to bachelor's level preparation. The table below highlights several options that balance speed, academic rigor, and career advancement potential for healthcare professionals across Kansas.
School NameHighlightsRetention & Grad Rates
University of Kansas
  • Online flexible format
  • One year full-time or five years part-time
  • Entry possible each semester
  • Skill development in leadership
  • Critical thinking emphasis
  • Graduation Rate: 69%
  • Retention Rate: 85%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Pittsburg State University
  • Online program completion in 12 months
  • Ranked #1 in Kansas
  • Fully accredited program
  • Flexible scheduling options
  • Part-time study available
  • 93.4% program retention rate
  • Upper-division courses in three semesters
  • Jumpstart option for ADN students
  • Graduation Rate: 58%
  • Retention Rate: 78%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Baker University
  • Online flexible program
  • Complete in one year
  • Fully accredited program
  • No relocation required
  • Classes start three times yearly
  • Credit for previous coursework
  • Leadership capstone in community
  • 24/7 learning flexibility
  • Graduation Rate: 59%
  • Retention Rate: 74%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 12:1
*Source: IPEDS 2023 postsecondary education data, NCES.

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 BoardKansas State Board of Nursing (KSBN)
CertificationBSN from a KSBN‑approved program, pass the NCLEX‑RN, and complete a fingerprint background check
License Renewal PeriodBiennial renewal expiring the last day of your birth month, renew online beginning 90 days prior
Continuing Education30 contact hours every two years
License Application Fee$100 initial RN license
Clinical HoursVerified via official transcripts
Application Processing Time7–10 business days after receipt of a complete application, license issued once NCLEX results and background check clear
License by Endorsement$125 endorsement fee, submit active‑license verification, transcripts, and fingerprint clearance

Salary and Job Outlook

Kansas-based BSN-prepared nurses gain both better salaries and greater career prospects. Registered nurses in Kansas receive salaries that compare well to other states while Wichita and Kansas City tend to pay their nurses the highest wages. BSN-prepared nurses gain eligibility for leadership positions and specialized clinical roles as well as pay grade increases through clinical advancement. Many healthcare organizations pay higher salaries and give bonuses to employees who earn their bachelor’s degree. The demand for nurses in Kansas remains strong because the state faces an increasing elderly population and rising healthcare requirements. Thousands of new nursing positions will emerge during the next few years primarily in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community health organizations. Healthcare employers now prefer or require new hires to hold a BSN degree which positions BSN-prepared nurses for better employment opportunities. The high demand for nurses who advance their education creates a stable and rewarding professional environment.

Salary & Career OutlookKansasUSA
Avg Annual BSN Salary$66,600$62,340
Avg Hourly Wage$32.02$29.97
90th Percentile Salary>$80,200$80,510
Median Salary$66,600$62,340
10th Percentile Salary<$50,300$47,960
Projected Job Growth (2022-2032)7%3%
Annual Job Openings~970~54,000

2026 Affordable RN to BSN Program Options in Kansas

Pursuing a nursing degree in Kansas can be a smart investment for healthcare professionals looking to advance their careers. With several affordable RN to BSN programs across the state, nurses in major regions like Kansas City, Wichita, and Topeka can find budget-friendly educational opportunities. These programs offer critical pathways for registered nurses to enhance their skills, increase earning potential, and meet growing healthcare demands. The low-cost options help make higher education more accessible, allowing nurses to upgrade their credentials without significant financial strain. By exploring the range of tuition options, working nurses can find programs that align with their career goals and financial situations, making professional development more achievable across the state.
School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
University of Saint Mary
  • 100% Online Program
  • CCNE Accredited Nursing Program
  • Up to 96 Credits Transferable
  • 125 Total Credit Hours
  • Ranked No. 2 Online RN-BSN in Kansas
  • Core Nursing Curriculum Comprehensive
  • Tuition Discount for Graduate Programs
  • Flexible for Working Nurses
  • $27,100 - $40,700 (Undergraduate)
Fort Hays State University
  • 100% Online Program
  • Complete in 3 semesters
  • 30 total credit hours
  • Begins any semester
  • Valid RN license required
  • GPA requirement 2.5
  • Advanced standing credits
  • CCNE Accredited Program
  • $4,500 - $6,800 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $13,400 - $20,200 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Washburn University
  • Fully online RN to BSN
  • 18-month program completion
  • No on-campus residency
  • Minimum 2.5 GPA required
  • Active RN license needed
  • 8-week course sessions
  • Previously earned credits accepted
  • #3 Kansas online RN-BSN program
  • $7,700 - $11,500 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $16,500 - $24,700 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
*Data extracted from: NCES IPEDS 2023 public dataset.

Advancement Pathways

The BSN degree in Kansas creates numerous career choices together with professional growth opportunities for nurses. RNs who obtain a bachelor’s degree become qualified for leadership positions including charge nurse roles as well as unit management and clinical coordination responsibilities. Healthcare facilities tend to select BSN-educated nurses for positions which require supervisory work, quality improvement management, and patient education duties. The educational path of BSN provides RNs with the necessary foundation to pursue graduate degrees including MSN and DNP programs. Nurses who complete advanced degrees can obtain positions such as nurse practitioner, nurse educator or healthcare administrator. The BSN qualification enhances nursing candidates’ opportunities to secure specialized certifications which cover critical care, oncology and public health domains. BSN programs teach nurses to excel in communication while learning research methods and policy development which enables them to work on extensive healthcare projects. The BSN degree enables Kansas RNs to access expanded career paths and stronger job stability while creating better professional fulfillment for the long term.

List of RN to BSN Programs in Kansas

Jump to City:

Baldwin City, KS

Baker University

  • Bachelor's - ADN to BSN Bridge Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online flexible program
    • Complete in one year
    • Fully accredited program
    • No relocation required
    • Classes start three times yearly
    • Credit for previous coursework
    • Leadership capstone in community
    • 24/7 learning flexibility

Hays, KS

Fort Hays State University

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Program
    • Complete in 3 semesters
    • 30 total credit hours
    • Begins any semester
    • Valid RN license required
    • GPA requirement 2.5
    • Advanced standing credits
    • CCNE Accredited Program

Lawrence, KS

University of Kansas

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online flexible format
    • One year full-time or five years part-time
    • Entry possible each semester
    • Skill development in leadership
    • Critical thinking emphasis

Leavenworth, KS

University of Saint Mary

  • Bachelor's - RN-BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Program
    • CCNE Accredited Nursing Program
    • Up to 96 Credits Transferable
    • 125 Total Credit Hours
    • Ranked No. 2 Online RN-BSN in Kansas
    • Core Nursing Curriculum Comprehensive
    • Tuition Discount for Graduate Programs
    • Flexible for Working Nurses

Ottawa, KS

Ottawa University-Ottawa

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN Online Nursing Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • CCNE Accredited Nursing Program
    • Online Flexible Learning Format
    • Advanced Career Opportunities
    • For RNs with Associate Degrees
    • Professional Development Focus

Overland Park, KS

Ottawa University-Online

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online nursing program
    • CCNE accredited degree
    • Designed for working RNs
    • Career advancement opportunities
    • Flexible learning format

Pittsburg, KS

Pittsburg State University

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program completion in 12 months
    • Ranked #1 in Kansas
    • Fully accredited program
    • Flexible scheduling options
    • Part-time study available
    • 93.4% program retention rate
    • Upper-division courses in three semesters
    • Jumpstart option for ADN students

Topeka, KS

Washburn University

  • Bachelor's - RN-to-BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online RN to BSN
    • 18-month program completion
    • No on-campus residency
    • Minimum 2.5 GPA required
    • Active RN license needed
    • 8-week course sessions
    • Previously earned credits accepted
    • #3 Kansas online RN-BSN program

Wichita, KS

Wichita State University

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Campus Based - Website

    • Advanced placement for RNs
    • Designed for working nurses
    • Pathway to career advancement
    • Builds on associate's degree
    • Prepares for graduate studies

Winfield, KS

Southwestern College

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online RN to BSN program
    • Complete in 14 months
    • Transfer up to 30 credits
    • Accredited nursing program
    • Flexible for working nurses
    • Minimum 2.5 GPA required
    • Focuses on nursing leadership
    • Professional practice emphasis
*Original data from: National Center for Education Statistics' IPEDS program (2023).