Top RN to BSN Programs in South Carolina

Top RN to BSN Programs in South Carolina
Hannah Pierce, BSN

Hannah Pierce, BSN

June 19, 2025

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2026 Top RN to BSN Programs in South Carolina

At TopNursing.org, we understand the critical importance of selecting the right RN to BSN program in South Carolina. Our comprehensive research team has carefully evaluated nursing schools across the state, considering factors like academic reputation, clinical opportunities, faculty expertise, and student success rates. These rankings provide nursing professionals with a definitive guide to advancing their education and career trajectory. Whether you're a working registered nurse seeking flexibility or a motivated professional aiming to enhance your credentials, our curated list offers insights into the most respected and high-performing RN to BSN programs in South Carolina. Each program featured meets our rigorous standards for quality education and career preparation. Review our detailed ranking methodology.
#1

University of South Carolina

Columbia, SC - Public 4-Year - sc.edu

Bachelor's - RN to BSN

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of South Carolina's RN to BSN online program empowers registered nurses to advance their careers and meet critical healthcare workforce needs. Designed for working professionals, this flexible 12-month program enables nurses to seamlessly balance education with professional commitments. Graduates gain advanced skills to step into leadership roles, addressing the projected nursing shortage in South Carolina. The program leverages top-tier faculty expertise and comprehensive university resources to prepare nurses for evolving healthcare challenges.

  • Online 12-month program
  • Tailored for working RNs
  • Leadership skill development
  • University resources access
  • Addresses nursing shortage
#2

University of South Carolina Aiken

Aiken, SC - Public 4-Year - usca.edu

Bachelor's - RN to BSN

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of South Carolina Aiken's online RN to BSN program provides experienced nurses a flexible pathway to advance their careers. Designed for working professionals, this program allows registered nurses to complete their bachelor's degree in as few as 12 months. With a total tuition of $9,486 and 31 credit hours, students gain comprehensive nursing knowledge aligned with the latest healthcare standards. The curriculum emphasizes holistic patient care, community health, and evidence-based practices, preparing nurses for diverse healthcare roles. Admission requires an associate degree or nursing diploma, current RN license, and a minimum 2.5 GPA.

  • Online program, 12-month completion
  • Total tuition $9,486
  • 31 total credit hours
  • CCNE accredited program
  • 2.5 GPA admission requirement
  • Current RN license needed
  • Multiple career path options
#3

University of South Carolina-Upstate

Spartanburg, SC - Public 4-Year - uscupstate.edu

Bachelor's - RN to BSN

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The RN to BSN program at USC Upstate provides registered nurses an accelerated pathway to earn their bachelor's degree, designed for working professionals seeking career advancement. Students can complete the program in just one calendar year full-time or two years part-time, with flexible online and in-person learning options. The curriculum prepares nurses for diverse healthcare settings and provides a strong foundation for potential graduate studies. In-state tuition is offered for online students nationwide, making the program accessible and affordable. The program is accredited by CCNE and SACS, ensuring high-quality educational standards.

  • Complete BSN in one year
  • Online and in-person options
  • RN-MSN pathway available
  • CCNE and SACS accredited
  • In-state tuition for online students
  • Full-time and part-time study
  • 32 semester nursing hours
  • Credit for previous nursing courses
  • Multiple class start dates
#4

Francis Marion University

Florence, SC - Public 4-Year - fmarion.edu

Bachelor's - RN to BSN

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Francis Marion University's RN to BSN program provides licensed registered nurses a flexible pathway to advance their education and career potential. Designed for working professionals, this hybrid program allows nurses to build on their existing clinical experience while earning a comprehensive bachelor's degree. The program focuses on expanding critical thinking, leadership skills, and professional nursing knowledge. Graduates gain deeper insights into healthcare systems, research application, and community health strategies. Ideal for nurses seeking career growth, enhanced clinical competencies, and potential opportunities in specialized nursing roles.

  • Hybrid learning format
  • For licensed RN professionals
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Focuses on career advancement
  • Professional nursing knowledge
#5

Newberry College

Newberry, SC - Private 4-year - newberry.edu

Bachelor's - RN-to-BSN completion track

Online Learning - Visit Website

Newberry College's RN-to-BSN online program offers working nurses a streamlined pathway to career advancement. Designed for registered nurses with an associate degree or diploma, this fully online program can be completed in as few as 12 months. Students gain advanced skills in nursing leadership, research, and evidence-based practice, positioning themselves for specialized roles and increased opportunities in healthcare. With a competitive tuition rate of $405 per credit hour and no application fee, the program provides an accessible route to professional growth.

  • Fully online RN-to-BSN track
  • Complete in 12 months
  • $405 per credit hour
  • No application fee
  • CCNE accredited program
  • 7.5-week course terms
  • 32 semester credit hours
  • Active RN license required
  • Advance nursing career opportunities
*Source: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/ (IPEDS 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 South Carolina

2026 Fastest RN to BSN Program Options in South Carolina

Nurses in South Carolina seeking to advance their careers can benefit from accelerated RN to BSN programs that offer the quickest pathways to completing their bachelor's degree. These efficient programs are designed for working professionals in major metropolitan areas like Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville who want to minimize time away from their current nursing roles. By focusing on streamlined curricula and flexible learning options, these programs help registered nurses rapidly transition into more advanced educational credentials. Faster completion times mean nurses can quickly enhance their professional qualifications, potentially increasing job opportunities and earning potential across healthcare settings throughout the state. Understanding the importance of time-efficient education, these programs prioritize practical learning and career progression.
School NameHighlightsRetention & Grad Rates
University of South Carolina-Upstate
  • Complete BSN in one year
  • Online and in-person options
  • RN-MSN pathway available
  • CCNE and SACS accredited
  • In-state tuition for online students
  • Full-time and part-time study
  • 32 semester nursing hours
  • Credit for previous nursing courses
  • Graduation Rate: 42%
  • Retention Rate: 69%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Newberry College
  • Fully online RN-to-BSN track
  • Complete in 12 months
  • $405 per credit hour
  • No application fee
  • CCNE accredited program
  • 7.5-week course terms
  • 32 semester credit hours
  • Active RN license required
  • Graduation Rate: 44%
  • Retention Rate: 70%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
University of South Carolina Aiken
  • Online program, 12-month completion
  • Total tuition $9,486
  • 31 total credit hours
  • CCNE accredited program
  • 2.5 GPA admission requirement
  • Current RN license needed
  • Multiple career path options
  • Graduation Rate: 40%
  • Retention Rate: 64%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
*Data obtained from: IPEDS 2023 survey (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 BoardSouth Carolina Board of Nursing
CertificationGraduate of approved BSN, pass NCLEX‑RN, fingerprint background check
License Renewal PeriodExpires April 30 every two years
Continuing Education30 contact hours biennially
License Application Fee$90 licensure‑by‑exam, $200 NCLEX registration
Clinical HoursSupervised practice per BSN program
Application Processing Time14 business days for application, 10 days for NCLEX results
License by Endorsement$100 endorsement (+$10 temp), license verification, transcripts, background check

Salary and Job Outlook

Salary & Career OutlookSouth CarolinaUSA
Avg Annual BSN Salary$65,500$62,340
Avg Hourly Wage$31.50$29.97
90th Percentile Salary>$75,000$80,510
Median Salary$60,000$62,340
10th Percentile Salary<$46,000$47,960
Projected Job Growth (2022-2032)10%3%
Annual Job Openings~2,200~54,000

2026 Affordable RN to BSN Program Options in South Carolina

Nursing professionals across South Carolina increasingly seek accessible pathways to advance their education without breaking the bank. These RN to BSN programs offer affordable opportunities for registered nurses in major regions like Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville to complete their bachelor's degree. With competitive tuition rates, these educational tracks help working nurses upgrade their credentials and expand career potential without significant financial strain. Students can find programs that balance academic quality with economic feasibility, allowing them to invest in professional growth while managing personal budgets. The following table highlights key program options that make bachelor's degree completion more attainable for healthcare professionals throughout the Palmetto State.
School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
University of South Carolina Aiken
  • Online program, 12-month completion
  • Total tuition $9,486
  • 31 total credit hours
  • CCNE accredited program
  • 2.5 GPA admission requirement
  • Current RN license needed
  • Multiple career path options
  • $8,600 - $12,900 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $17,000 - $25,500 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
University of South Carolina-Upstate
  • Complete BSN in one year
  • Online and in-person options
  • RN-MSN pathway available
  • CCNE and SACS accredited
  • In-state tuition for online students
  • Full-time and part-time study
  • 32 semester nursing hours
  • Credit for previous nursing courses
  • $9,300 - $13,900 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $18,500 - $27,700 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Newberry College
  • Fully online RN-to-BSN track
  • Complete in 12 months
  • $405 per credit hour
  • No application fee
  • CCNE accredited program
  • 7.5-week course terms
  • 32 semester credit hours
  • Active RN license required
  • $24,000 - $36,100 (Undergraduate)
*Data citation: NCES, IPEDS 2023 Final Release Data.

Programs in South Carolina

South Carolina offers a diverse range of educational programs across its colleges and universities. From technical training to advanced degrees, students can find opportunities that match their career goals. These programs span various disciplines, including healthcare, technology, business, and the arts, providing comprehensive learning experiences in both urban and rural settings throughout the state.
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Aiken, SC

University of South Carolina Aiken

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program, 12-month completion
    • Total tuition $9,486
    • 31 total credit hours
    • CCNE accredited program
    • 2.5 GPA admission requirement
    • Current RN license needed
    • Multiple career path options

Columbia, SC

Columbia College

  • Bachelor's - Nursing, RN to BSN, B.S.N.

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online RN to BSN degree
    • 30 total credit hours
    • Accredited by CCNE
    • Requires unencumbered RN license
    • Leadership skill development
    • Professional nursing focus
    • Advanced practice preparation
    • 10 upper-level nursing courses

Columbia International University

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Program
    • Transfer up to 81 credits
    • For working RNs
    • Christian perspective nursing
    • Leadership skill development

University of South Carolina

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online 12-month program
    • Tailored for working RNs
    • Leadership skill development
    • University resources access
    • Addresses nursing shortage

Florence, SC

Francis Marion University

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid learning format
    • For licensed RN professionals
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Focuses on career advancement
    • Professional nursing knowledge

Gaffney, SC

Limestone University

  • Bachelor's - Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-BSN)

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Nursing Degree
    • Accredited by CCNE
    • 46 Credit Hour Program
    • $389 Per Credit Hour
    • Asynchronous Course Format
    • Builds Advanced Nursing Skills
    • 30 Credit Hours RN Transfer
    • Flexible Eight-Week Terms

Hartsville, SC

Coker University

  • Bachelor's - RN-BSN Completion Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program flexibility.
    • GPA requirement: 3.0.
    • Active nursing license needed.
    • Associate degree in nursing required.
    • Focus on professional development.
    • Prepares for broad scope of practice.
    • Enhances understanding of healthcare issues.
    • Ideal for career advancement.

Newberry, SC

Newberry College

  • Bachelor's - RN-to-BSN completion track

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online RN-to-BSN track
    • Complete in 12 months
    • $405 per credit hour
    • No application fee
    • CCNE accredited program
    • 7.5-week course terms
    • 32 semester credit hours
    • Active RN license required

Spartanburg, SC

University of South Carolina-Upstate

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Complete BSN in one year
    • Online and in-person options
    • RN-MSN pathway available
    • CCNE and SACS accredited
    • In-state tuition for online students
    • Full-time and part-time study
    • 32 semester nursing hours
    • Credit for previous nursing courses
*Based on data from: IPEDS 2023, provided by the National Center for Education Statistics.