Top RN to BSN Programs in Vermont

Top RN to BSN Programs in Vermont
Olivia Chen, NP

Olivia Chen, NP

June 19, 2025

The RN to BSN programs function to help associate-degree and diploma-trained registered nurses earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. The growing requirement for skilled nurses in Vermont makes these educational programs essential for the state. BSN-prepared nurses act as essential professionals who improve patient outcomes through their work in leadership positions, roles as care coordinators, and public health practitioners. The healthcare system of Vermont depends on BSN nurses to serve the needs of its elderly population and deliver care throughout both cities and rural communities. 

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2026 Top RN to BSN Programs in Vermont

At TopNursing.org, we've carefully evaluated and ranked the top RN to BSN programs across Vermont to help aspiring nurses make informed educational decisions. Our comprehensive analysis considers critical factors such as program accreditation, student success rates, faculty expertise, clinical placement opportunities, and overall academic quality. Vermont offers several outstanding nursing education pathways that enable registered nurses to advance their careers and expand their professional capabilities. These programs provide flexible learning options, including online and hybrid formats, designed to accommodate working nurses seeking to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. Our rankings reflect the most competitive and high-performing institutions in the state, ensuring that nurses can select programs that align with their career goals and professional development needs. Learn more about our ranking methodology.
#1

Norwich University

Northfield, VT - Private 4-year - norwich.edu

Bachelor's - RN to BS in Nursing

Online Learning - Visit Website

Norwich University's online RN to BS in Nursing program is designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their education without an entrance exam requirement. This CCNE-accredited program allows for the transfer of up to 90 credits, enabling completion in approximately 18 months with a flexible online format. Students benefit from a curriculum focused on leadership and evidence-based practice, preparing them for roles in management, clinical research, and specialized healthcare. With tuition ranging from $250 to $375 per credit hour and multiple start dates annually, it offers an accessible path for career growth and potential progression to graduate studies.

  • 100% Online Nursing Degree
  • Transfer up to 90 credits
  • 18-month average completion
  • Tuition $250-$375 per credit
  • CCNE Accredited Program
  • Multiple annual start dates
  • Unencumbered RN License Required
  • GPA Requirement: 3.0
  • Pathway to Master's Program
  • Career Advancement Opportunities
#2

Vermont State University

Randolph, VT - Public 4-Year - vermontstate.edu

Bachelor's - Nursing Online Degree Completion

Online Learning - Visit Website

Vermont State University offers an online RN to BSN program designed for licensed RNs seeking to advance their education. This 18-month, flexible program costs $388 per credit and focuses on key areas such as informatics, leadership, and community nursing. It is fully online, allowing students to balance studies with work, and includes precepted experiences that can be completed at their current job. Accredited by the NLN Commission, it boasts a 100% placement rate and does not require an ACT or SAT entrance exam, making it accessible for working professionals aiming for higher nursing degrees.

  • Fully online RN to BSN program
  • 100% post-graduation placement
  • $388 per credit tuition
  • 18-month flexible completion path
  • Precepted experiences at workplace
  • Supports advanced nursing degrees
  • NLN Commission accredited program
*Source: IPEDS 2023 postsecondary education data, NCES.

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 Vermont

Online RN to BSN programs in Vermont are widely accessible to nurses who need to balance their work responsibilities with education. Working professionals find suitable online programs at Vermont State University and Norwich University which provide full online courses for their educational needs. The online programs use asynchronous learning methods which enable students to finish their assignments at different times throughout each week. Some programs provide hybrid options through which students must attend classes in person on an occasional basis. Certain educational programs provide weekend and evening classes but they remain scarce. Students who want to finish their RN to BSN program quickly can take a full course load throughout the year at certain schools. The various program formats enable Vermont nurses to obtain their BSN education without halting their professional work.

2026 Fastest RN to BSN Program Options in Vermont

Nursing professionals in Vermont seeking to advance their careers can benefit from accelerated RN to BSN programs that offer faster pathways to degree completion. These programs understand the unique needs of working nurses across Burlington, Montpelier, and other Vermont regions, providing flexible options to help healthcare workers upgrade their qualifications efficiently. The shortest nursing education tracks prioritize practical skills and rapid academic progression, allowing registered nurses to complete their bachelor's degree with minimal disruption to their current work schedules. By focusing on streamlined curriculum and efficient learning models, these programs help nurses quickly enhance their professional credentials, improve career opportunities, and potentially increase their earning potential in Vermont's dynamic healthcare landscape.
School NameHighlightsRetention & Grad Rates
Norwich University
  • 100% Online Nursing Degree
  • Transfer up to 90 credits
  • 18-month average completion
  • Tuition $250-$375 per credit
  • CCNE Accredited Program
  • Multiple annual start dates
  • Unencumbered RN License Required
  • GPA Requirement: 3.0
  • Graduation Rate: 61%
  • Retention Rate: 69%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Vermont State University
  • Fully online RN to BSN program
  • Ranked #5 nationally for online programs
  • 100% post-graduation placement
  • $388 per credit tuition
  • 18-month flexible completion path
  • Precepted experiences at workplace
  • Supports advanced nursing degrees
  • NLN Commission accredited program
  • Graduation Rate: 49%
  • Retention Rate: 67%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 9:1
*Credit: NCES, Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System, 2023.

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 BoardVermont State Board of Nursing under the Office of Professional Regulation
CertificationGraduate of an approved BSN program, submit transcripts, pass NCLEX‑RN, complete a fingerprint background check
License Renewal PeriodLicenses expire March 31 of odd‑numbered years and renew every two years
Continuing Education20 contact hours biennially or meet active practice requirements (50 days/400 hours in two years or 120 days/960 hours in five), hold national certification, or complete a re‑entry program
License Application Fee$150 initial application, $200 NCLEX registration, plus any fingerprint processing fees
Clinical HoursMinimum of 500 hours of supervised clinical practice in core nursing areas
Application Processing TimePermanent license issued in approximately 3–5 business days after all materials are received, provisional permit available concurrently
License by EndorsementApply online via the Nurse Portal with a $175 endorsement fee, verify your RN license via NURSYS, submit transcripts and fingerprints, and meet any additional requirements

Salary and Job Outlook

The employment pay for BSN-educated nurses in Vermont exceeds what RNs with associate degrees receive. Registered nurses working in Vermont typically earn $75,000 annually but BSN graduates receive better pay because of their advanced skills and education. The highest compensation in nursing typically comes from working in intensive care units or surgical departments or from nurse management positions. The employment prospects for registered nurses in Vermont demonstrate positive growth because the field will increase by 8% throughout the upcoming decade. The aging population together with rising healthcare requirements will drive up the demand for nurses. Nurses who obtain their BSN degree become more qualified to fill various nursing positions especially in leadership roles and specialized fields which demonstrate strong demand for well-educated nurses.

Salary & Career OutlookVermontUSA
Avg Annual BSN Salary$75,000$62,340
Avg Hourly Wage$36.06$29.97
90th Percentile Salary>$85,000$80,510
Median Salary$66,500$62,340
10th Percentile Salary<$50,000$47,960
Projected Job Growth (2022-2032)8%3%
Annual Job Openings~300~54,000

2026 Affordable RN to BSN Program Options in Vermont

Vermont offers nursing students excellent opportunities to advance their careers through affordable RN to BSN programs across the state. These programs help registered nurses upgrade their education without breaking the bank, providing pathways in cities like Burlington and Montpelier. Students seeking low-cost bachelor's degree options can find flexible and budget-friendly choices that support professional growth. By investing in these accessible educational routes, nurses can enhance their credentials, increase potential earnings, and expand their healthcare career opportunities. The following table highlights several Vermont institutions with competitive tuition ranges and program features designed to meet diverse student needs.
School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Vermont State University
  • Fully online RN to BSN program
  • Ranked #5 nationally for online programs
  • 100% post-graduation placement
  • $388 per credit tuition
  • 18-month flexible completion path
  • Precepted experiences at workplace
  • Supports advanced nursing degrees
  • NLN Commission accredited program
  • $9,100 - $13,700 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $17,100 - $25,700 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Norwich University
  • 100% Online Nursing Degree
  • Transfer up to 90 credits
  • 18-month average completion
  • Tuition $250-$375 per credit
  • CCNE Accredited Program
  • Multiple annual start dates
  • Unencumbered RN License Required
  • GPA Requirement: 3.0
  • $39,700 - $59,500 (Undergraduate)
*Data provided by: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023 collection.

Advancement Pathways

The acquisition of a BSN degree creates various professional growth possibilities for nurses who work in Vermont. BSN-educated nurses can take on nurse manager positions together with clinical coordinator roles and director of nursing leadership positions. The BSN qualification enables nurses to pursue specialized certifications in pediatric care as well as oncology and emergency nursing fields. BSN-educated nurses can transition into public health positions and healthcare policy roles which enable them to affect patient care at larger scales. Nurses who hold a BSN degree typically use this education to pursue Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) studies which leads to nurse practitioner and nurse anesthetist roles. The BSN stands as an essential educational milestone for nurses who wish to take on leadership roles in Vermont’s healthcare system.

List of RN to BSN Programs in Vermont

Jump to City:

Northfield, VT

Norwich University

  • Bachelor's - RN to BS in Nursing

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Nursing Degree
    • Transfer up to 90 credits
    • 18-month average completion
    • Tuition $250-$375 per credit
    • CCNE Accredited Program
    • Multiple annual start dates
    • Unencumbered RN License Required
    • GPA Requirement: 3.0

Randolph, VT

Vermont State University

  • Bachelor's - Nursing Online Degree Completion

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online RN to BSN program
    • Ranked #5 nationally for online programs
    • 100% post-graduation placement
    • $388 per credit tuition
    • 18-month flexible completion path
    • Precepted experiences at workplace
    • Supports advanced nursing degrees
    • NLN Commission accredited program
*From: U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS 2023. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/