Best RN to BSN Online Programs

Badge for BEST ONLINE RN TO-BSN PROGRAMS
By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Chloe Dembski
Published:
Updated:

Find top-ranked online RN to BSN degree programs for RN’s who want to qualify for roles as charge nurses, addiction nurses, and clinical nurse educators.

Key Takeaways

  • Top RN to BSN online programs are designed for working nurses, offering flexible scheduling, self-paced courses, and accelerated options that allow students to complete their degree quickly while balancing work and personal commitments.
  • Many of the top RN to BSN programs include virtual simulations, local clinical placements, or practice projects that let students apply their learning in real healthcare settings, ensuring they gain relevant, hands-on experience despite studying online.
  • The programs in our rankings provide dedicated resources such as academic advising, career counseling, and access to faculty mentors, creating a supportive community that helps students succeed in their academic and career goals.

Best RN to BSN Online Programs in 2025

  1. University of Rochester
    +1
  2. University of Massachusetts Amherst
    +5
  3. University of Missouri
    +3
  4. Texas A&M University
    +7
  5. University of Cincinnati
    –2
  6. University of South Carolina
    –1
  7. University of Delaware
    +16
  8. University of Arkansas
    +2
  9. Virginia Commonwealth University
    –8
  10. Florida Atlantic University
    +30

2025 Ranking Update

Our Influence Ranking Engine™ leverages machine learning to track the real-world influence of colleges and universities over time. Below you’ll see which schools gained or lost ground for the 2025 school year.

In 2025, the top ten schools in our ranking of the best RN to BSN online programs saw a substantial amount of movement. Florida Atlantic University gained the most ranking positions as the university introduced a fully online curriculum, allowing registered nurses to complete their Bachelor of Science in Nursing without the need for on-campus attendance. The program offers flexible start dates in the spring, summer, or fall semesters, accommodating the diverse schedules of working professionals.

Additionally, FAU has streamlined the application process, enabling students to apply and begin their studies more efficiently. These improvements make FAU’s RN to BSN program more accessible and convenient for nurses seeking to advance their education and careers.

Featured Programs

Best RN to BSN Online Degree Programs

  2. #2

    University of Massachusetts Amherst

    Amherst , MA
    #1 Best Public Colleges in Massachusetts 2024 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Massachusetts Ranked for Students in 2024 #6 Best Grad Schools in Massachusetts 2025 #6 Best Research Universities in Massachusetts 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $17K

    Acceptance

    64%

    Graduation

    83%

    Student body

    37K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1370/31

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at University of Massachusetts Amherst

    Cost of Degree: $17,357
    Expenses: $17,309
    Starting Salary: $92,866
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing: RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion time: 1 year
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  3. #3

    University of Missouri

    Columbia , MO
    #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Missouri 2024 #1 Best Public Colleges in Missouri 2025 #2 Best Grad Schools in Missouri 2025 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    75%

    Student body

    34K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1240/26

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at University of Missouri

    Cost of Degree: $14,130
    Expenses: $18,142
    Starting Salary: $91,096
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing: RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  6. #5

    University of Cincinnati

    Cincinnati , OH
    #10 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #2 Best Public Colleges in Ohio 2025 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Ohio 2025 #3 Best Grad Schools in Ohio 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    86%

    Graduation

    72%

    Student body

    48K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1260/26

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at University of Cincinnati

    Cost of Degree: $12,906
    Expenses: $19,772
    Starting Salary: $79,990
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing

    Concentrations

    • RN-BSN
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: 9 months, or two semesters
    • Format: Hybrid
    Compare school
  7. #6

    University of South Carolina

    Columbia , SC
    #2 15 Colleges with the Happiest Freshmen #1 Best Public Colleges in South Carolina 2025 #1 Best Colleges in South Carolina 2025 #1 Best Grad Schools in South Carolina 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    64%

    Graduation

    78%

    Student body

    39K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1280/29

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at University of South Carolina

    Cost of Degree: $12,688
    Expenses: $19,289
    Starting Salary: $86,750
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  9. #8

    University of Arkansas

    Fayetteville , AR
    #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #1 Best Public Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #1 Best Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #1 Best Grad Schools in Arkansas 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    69%

    Student body

    32K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1125/24

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at University of Arkansas

    Cost of Degree: $9,748
    Expenses: $20,260
    Starting Salary: $84,819
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  12. #10

    Florida Atlantic University

    Boca Raton , FL
    #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Florida 2025 #6 Best Public Colleges in Florida 2025 #7 Best Colleges in Florida 2024 #7 Best Grad Schools in Florida 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $5K

    Acceptance

    81%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    37K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1110/22

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Florida Atlantic University

    Cost of Degree: $4,879
    Expenses: $19,966
    Starting Salary: $77,737
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN: RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 32
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  13. #11

    Adelphi University

    Garden City , NY
    #1 Best Online Colleges for Students Who Work Part-Time 2025 #1 Best Online Associate in Emergency Management 2025 #3 Best Online Associate Degrees in New York 2025 #7 Best Online Master's in Sports Management 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $44K

    Acceptance

    73%

    Graduation

    67%

    Student body

    8K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1210/25

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Adelphi University

    Cost of Degree: $47,290
    Expenses: $24,544
    Starting Salary: $94,381
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN in RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion time: 4-5 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  14. #12

    Mercer University

    Macon , GA
    #5 Best Private Colleges in Georgia 2025 #6 Best Research Universities in Georgia 2025 #6 Best Grad Schools in Georgia 2024 #8 Best Colleges in Georgia 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $40K

    Acceptance

    75%

    Graduation

    74%

    Student body

    10K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1275/28

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Mercer University

    Cost of Degree: $33,380
    Expenses: $18,592
    Starting Salary: $87,190
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing

    Concentrations

    • RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 32
    • Completion time: 18-24 months
    • Format: Hybrid
    Compare school
  15. #13

    East Carolina University

    Greenville , NC
    #4 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #5 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #6 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2025 #6 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    92%

    Graduation

    65%

    Student body

    31K

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at East Carolina University

    Cost of Degree: $7,361
    Expenses: $16,970
    Starting Salary: $73,713
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing

    Concentrations

    • RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 125-133
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  16. #14

    Marshall University

    Huntington , WV
    #2 Best Grad Schools in West Virginia 2025 #2 Best Research Universities in West Virginia 2024 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in West Virginia 2025 #2 Best Colleges in West Virginia 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    97%

    Graduation

    50%

    Student body

    13K

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Marshall University

    Cost of Degree: $8,942
    Expenses: $16,352
    Starting Salary: $67,115
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing

    Concentrations

    • RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  18. #15

    Eastern Michigan University

    Ypsilanti , MI
    #5 Best Colleges in Michigan 2025 #5 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2025 #5 Best Grad Schools in Michigan 2024 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $16K

    Acceptance

    83%

    Graduation

    45%

    Student body

    19K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1055/21

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Eastern Michigan University

    Cost of Degree: $16,260
    Expenses: $16,344
    Starting Salary: $70,655
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing: RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  19. #16

    Oakland University

    Rochester Hills , MI
    #5 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2024 #6 Best Colleges in Michigan 2025 #6 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2025 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $16K

    Acceptance

    90%

    Graduation

    58%

    Student body

    20K

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Oakland University

    Cost of Degree: $16,429
    Expenses: $14,609
    Starting Salary: $77,415
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing, RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 1 year
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  20. #17

    Campbell University

    Buies Creek , NC
    #7 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #2 Best Small Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #4 Best Christian Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #4 Best Private Colleges in North Carolina 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $39K

    Acceptance

    89%

    Graduation

    56%

    Student body

    6K

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Campbell University

    Cost of Degree: $40,410
    Expenses: $23,301
    Starting Salary: $86,890
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing: RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  24. #20

    University of Southern Mississippi

    Hattiesburg , MS
    #3 Best Public Colleges in Mississippi 2024 #3 Best Research Universities in Mississippi 2024 #4 Best Colleges in Mississippi 2024 #4 Best Grad Schools in Mississippi 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    99%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    16K

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at University of Southern Mississippi

    Cost of Degree: $9,618
    Expenses: $17,484
    Starting Salary: $68,724
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 1.5 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  26. #22

    Boise State University

    Boise , ID
    #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Idaho 2025 #2 Best Public Colleges in Idaho 2024 #2 Best Research Universities in Idaho 2025 #2 Best Grad Schools in Idaho 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Acceptance

    84%

    Graduation

    60%

    Student body

    32K

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Boise State University

    Cost of Degree: $8,782
    Expenses: $23,559
    Starting Salary: $69,368
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing: RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  28. #24

    Mississippi College

    Clinton , MS
    #12 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #16 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #1 Best Private Colleges in Mississippi 2024 #1 Best Small Colleges in Mississippi 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $21K

    Acceptance

    40%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    5K

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Mississippi College

    Cost of Degree: $21,698
    Expenses: $19,667
    Starting Salary: $67,265
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing

    Concentrations

    • Rn To Bsn
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 12 months
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  31. #26

    Salem State University

    Salem , MA
    #6 Best Public Colleges in Massachusetts 2024 #7 Most Affordable Colleges in Massachusetts Ranked for Students in 2024 #21 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Social Work Degrees #10 Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    93%

    Graduation

    55%

    Student body

    8K

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Salem State University

    Cost of Degree: $11,978
    Expenses: $19,362
    Starting Salary: $75,806
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing: RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  32. #27

    Jacksonville University

    Jacksonville , FL
    #5 Best Small Colleges in Florida 2025 #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Florida 2024 #9 Best Private Colleges in Florida 2024 #17 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Nursing Degrees
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $44K

    Acceptance

    58%

    Graduation

    53%

    Student body

    5K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1150/23

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Jacksonville University

    Cost of Degree: $46,030
    Expenses: $19,876
    Starting Salary: $85,542
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN in RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  33. #28

    Azusa Pacific University

    Azusa , CA
    #15 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #19 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #8 Best Christian Colleges in California 2025 #6 Best Online MBA Programs in California 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $42K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    61%

    Student body

    9K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1110/24

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Azusa Pacific University

    Cost of Degree: $43,600
    Expenses: $14,192
    Starting Salary: $83,744
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN: Bridge to BSN
    • Required Credits: 40
    • Completion time: 4-5 years
    • Format: Online
    BSN: RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-5 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  36. #30

    Eastern Illinois University

    Charleston , IL
    #9 Best Public Colleges in Illinois 2024 #9 Cheapest Colleges in Illinois Ranked for Students in 2025 #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Illinois 2025 #2 Best Online Master’s in Human Services
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    68%

    Graduation

    55%

    Student body

    11K

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Eastern Illinois University

    Cost of Degree: $13,124
    Expenses: $14,216
    Starting Salary: $74,035
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing: RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 35
    • Completion time: 14 months
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  37. #31

    Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center

    Lubbock , TX
    #5 Fastest Accelerated Online Healthcare Administration Masters 2025 #6 Best Online Doctorate of Physical Therapy Programs (PhDs)

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Student body

    8K

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center

    Cost of Degree: $10,817
    Starting Salary: $161,912

    Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing: RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 4-5 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  38. #32

    Oklahoma Christian University

    Edmond , OK
    #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Oklahoma 2024 #4 Best Private Colleges in Oklahoma 2024 #4 Best Small Colleges in Oklahoma 2024 #4 Best Christian Colleges in Oklahoma 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $25K

    Acceptance

    96%

    Graduation

    57%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1130/23

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Oklahoma Christian University

    Cost of Degree: $25,900
    Expenses: $14,050
    Starting Salary: $64,868
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  39. #33

    California State University, Dominguez Hills

    Carson , CA
    #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Strategic Communications Degree Programs #15 Best Online Colleges in California 2024 #24 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    89%

    Graduation

    46%

    Student body

    20K

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at California State University, Dominguez Hills

    Cost of Degree: $7,064
    Expenses: $21,706
    Starting Salary: $78,059
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 50-53
    • Completion time: 4-5 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  40. #34

    William Paterson University

    Wayne , NJ
    #8 Most Affordable Colleges in New Jersey 2025 #8 Best Public Colleges New Jersey 2024 #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New Jersey 2025 #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity Degree Programs in New Jersey
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $15K

    Acceptance

    92%

    Graduation

    56%

    Student body

    12K

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at William Paterson University

    Cost of Degree: $15,150
    Expenses: $20,730
    Starting Salary: $79,025
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  42. #35

    Keuka College

    Keuka Park , NY
    #16 Best Online Colleges in New York 2025 #18 Best Online Bachelor's in Social Work Degree Programs Ranked for 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $36K

    Acceptance

    93%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1036/17

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Keuka College

    Cost of Degree: $38,000
    Expenses: $17,086
    Starting Salary: $69,961
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN in RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 38
    • Completion time: 4-5 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  44. #37

    Francis Marion University

    Florence , SC
    #6 Best Small Colleges in South Carolina 2025 #8 Best Public Colleges in South Carolina 2025 #8 Cheap Colleges in South Carolina in 2025 #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in South Carolina 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    83%

    Graduation

    39%

    Student body

    5K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1006/18

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Francis Marion University

    Cost of Degree: $11,170
    Expenses: $14,330
    Starting Salary: $59,389
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 11 months
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  45. #38

    Wilmington University

    New Castle , DE
    #1 Best Private Colleges in Delaware 2024 #3 Best Colleges in Delaware 2025 #3 Best Grad Schools in Delaware 2024 #3 Best Research Universities in Delaware 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Graduation

    20%

    Student body

    19K

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Wilmington University

    Cost of Degree: $12,330
    Starting Salary: $69,812

    Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  46. #39

    Saint Xavier University

    Chicago , IL
    #17 Best Online Master's Programs in Illinois 2024 #20 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $36K

    Acceptance

    84%

    Graduation

    53%

    Student body

    4K

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Saint Xavier University

    Cost of Degree: $36,840
    Expenses: $16,008
    Starting Salary: $75,804
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    RN to BSN Nursing
    • Required Credits: 34
    • Completion time: 205 Years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  48. #40

    Fitchburg State University

    Fitchburg , MA
    #8 Best Public Colleges in Massachusetts 2024 #9 Most Affordable Colleges in Massachusetts Ranked for Students in 2024 #7 Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts 2024 #13 Top 20 Most Affordable Online MBA Degree Programs Ranked 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    86%

    Graduation

    56%

    Student body

    10K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1120/25

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Fitchburg State University

    Cost of Degree: $11,046
    Expenses: $17,825
    Starting Salary: $76,288
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing: RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 32
    • Completion time: 12 months
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  49. #41

    West Liberty University

    West Liberty , WV
    #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in West Virginia 2024 #4 Best Public Colleges in West Virginia 2024 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in West Virginia 2025 #6 Best Colleges in West Virginia 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    74%

    Graduation

    61%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1009/7

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at West Liberty University

    Cost of Degree: $8,732
    Expenses: $15,818
    Starting Salary: $63,574
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing

    Concentrations

    • Rn To Bsn
    • Required Credits: 125
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  50. #42

    William Carey University

    Hattiesburg , MS
    #4 Best Christian Colleges in Mississippi 2025 #4 Best Private Colleges in Mississippi 2024 #6 Best Research Universities in Mississippi 2024 #7 Best Grad Schools in Mississippi 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $15K

    Acceptance

    54%

    Graduation

    42%

    Student body

    8K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1185/24

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at William Carey University

    Cost of Degree: $14,685
    Expenses: $16,383
    Starting Salary: $60,673
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 1 year
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  51. #43

    Lander University

    Greenwood , SC
    #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in South Carolina 2024 #10 Best Public Colleges in South Carolina 2025 #8 Best Online Bachelor’s of Human Services Degree Programs Ranked for 2024 #14 Best Online Colleges in South Carolina 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    67%

    Graduation

    45%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1070/20

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Lander University

    Cost of Degree: $11,700
    Expenses: $16,370
    Starting Salary: $61,320
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  52. #44

    Madonna University

    Livonia , MI
    #8 Best Christian Colleges in Michigan 2025 #9 Best Private Colleges in Michigan 2024 #9 Best Small Colleges in Michigan 2024 #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Michigan 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $26K

    Acceptance

    65%

    Graduation

    49%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Madonna University

    Cost of Degree: $27,360
    Expenses: $16,590
    Starting Salary: $66,516
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing: RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 16 months
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing: RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 38
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  54. #45

    Curry College

    Milton , MA
    #15 Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts 2024 #21 Best Online Master's Programs in Massachusetts 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $45K

    Acceptance

    88%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Curry College

    Cost of Degree: $45,820
    Expenses: $20,900
    Starting Salary: $76,553
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing: RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  56. #47

    Shenandoah University

    Winchester , VA
    #8 Best Christian Colleges in Virginia 2025 #10 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2025 #11 Best Online Doctorate of Physical Therapy Programs (PhDs) #12 Best Online Colleges in Virginia 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $35K

    Acceptance

    80%

    Graduation

    63%

    Student body

    5K

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Shenandoah University

    Cost of Degree: $36,028
    Expenses: $15,900
    Starting Salary: $78,351
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN in RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  57. #48

    D'Youville University

    Buffalo , NY

    Tuition + fees

    $31K

    Acceptance

    84%

    Graduation

    66%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1145/22

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at D'Youville University

    Cost of Degree: $33,560
    Expenses: $16,000
    Starting Salary: $77,452
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN: RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 122
    • Completion time: 4-5 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  58. #49

    Molloy University

    Rockville Centre , NY

    Tuition + fees

    $36K

    Acceptance

    77%

    Graduation

    69%

    Student body

    9K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1195/26

    Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Molloy University

    Cost of Degree: $37,840
    Expenses: $21,440
    Starting Salary: $96,029
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN: RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion time: 4.5-5.5 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school

Career Outlook for Students with Nursing Degree

Go to Degree Finder tool

Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse

Degree Level: Bachelor's

  • Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)
  • Avg. Cost of Degree*: $10,226
  • Avg. Expenses*: $17,185
  • Avg. Starting Salary*: $76,808
  • Avg. Cost Recoup Time**: 8 years
  • Job Growth: 6.29%
  • Number of Jobs: 3,390,000
  • * denotes ‘annually’
  • ** denotes ‘at 15% of annual salary’

Career Salaries

CareerJob GrowthAvg. Salary
Nurse Anesthetists10.42%$212,650
Nurse Midwives6.94%$129,650
Nurse Practitioners46.29%$126,260
Medical and Health Services Managers28.54%$110,680
Registered Nurses5.98%$86,070

Top Industries

IndustryAvg. Salary
Nurse Anesthetists$212,650
Nurse Midwives$129,650
Nurse Practitioners$126,260
Data from The Bureau of Labor Statistics, The Department of Education College Scorecard, The Department of Education NCES, and The Council for Community and Economic Research.

Frequently Asked Questions About RN to BSN Degrees

Why go from RN to BSN?

Registered nurses who want to pursue leadership roles while also increasing their earning potential may want to enroll in an RN to BSN, or Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing, program.

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How long does it take to go from RN to BSN?

These unique programs typically allow students to transfer up to 60 credits, which can help expedite the process of earning a bachelor’s degree from four years to just two years.

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What topics do courses cover?

Courses, which are available both online and on campus, explore topics like human anatomy, leadership in nursing, and healthcare policy.

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What are RN to BSN students doing after graduation?

Depending on experience, graduates typically qualify for roles as charge nurses, addiction nurses, and clinical nurse educators. However, students should note that additional certifications and licensure may be required for certain career paths. The RN to BSN program also helps prepare students for graduate degrees.

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Learn more about how to major in nursing.

Online Degree Frequently Asked Questions

If this is your first time taking an online course, the experience may require a time of adjustment. Although you’ll typically learn the same material and take the same exams as your on-campus peers, going online will require greater independence and responsibility than going in person. You’ll be accountable for your own time management, for harnessing the online educational technology that you’ll need to use, and for completing the course requirements, such as listening to lectures, learning lessons, reading texts, and handing in assignments. This means you’ll need to create a suitable workspace for yourself, maintain a realistic schedule, and take the initiative in building relationships with your instructors and classmates. With online college, your goal is to find a balance between independence and engagement.

No. The only part of online education that’s easier than campus-based education is ease of access: all you need is a computer and an internet connection for online education. But even this seeming advantage of online education can be misleading: what’s easier, studying online with your computer and internet connection from your home where you need to cook, clean, pay rent, and maintain a job? Or studying on campus in a dorm where all your living needs are handled by the school, and college staff are there to help you every step of the way?

If you take the commute to campus out of the equation, campus-based education is easier. All the support structures available on campus for students, especially with real people to help you in person, are not there online. The demands on you as an online student will largely be the same as for your campus-based counterpart, but without the same helps.

In general, your online courses will present the same material and test you in the same way as traditional in-person courses. In many cases, you’ll even have the same instructors as your on-campus counterparts. In fact, if you are adjusting to the experience of independent learning with remote educational technology for the first time, online college may be considerably more challenging than campus-based college. For a few insights on how to manage this new online experience, check out our 10 Tips for Adjusting to School Online.

Accreditation is especially important when it comes to online college. This is because the online education landscape is a mix of highly-reputable non-profit institutions on the one end and less-than-reputable for-profit institutions on the other end. Accreditation gives you the power to identify the more reputable actors in online education. Accreditation is a stamp of approval from an independent accrediting agency indicating that a college or university is meeting standards of quality and credibility. School-wide accreditation falls into two major categories: regional and national accreditation. Regional accreditors generally hold jurisdiction only over schools in the states comprising their region, whereas national accreditors hold jurisdiction over schools in all states. Regional accreditation is widely regarded as a more rigorous standard of quality and credibility than national accreditation.

Attending a college or university that is not regionally accredited could limit your opportunities. For students seeking an online education, we strongly recommend that they opt for regionally accredited schools. Regional accreditation ensures eligibility for federal loans and grants, ensures your college credits can be transferred between schools, and ensures that your degree credits can be accepted if you wish to earn an advanced degree. For more on this important topic, check out our What is Accreditation and Why Does It Matter? College & University Accreditation Guide.

As long as your online college degree is regionally accredited (see the previous point), you should have little difficulty transferring most of your credits or credentials to another regionally accredited undergraduate school. Every school carries its own standards and procedures for granting a transfer of credits. In many cases, you will encounter some bureaucratic haggling in which some of your credits will be transferred and others may be refused. However, provided that you have attended an online school with recognized regional accreditation, you should be in good shape in transferring your credits earned online.

In most cases, as long you graduate from a well-regarded, regionally-accredited online college, prospective employers won’t look sideways at your degree. In fact, unless you attend an exclusively online college or university, there will likely be no specific indicator on your degree, transcript, or resumé differentiating your school from its brick-and-mortar counterpart. This means that your employer will likely only differentiate between an online and in-person degree if you mention this distinction.

Some employers may express the concern that because you did your degree online, you may need to transition from an online education experience to in-person workplace experience. But in an age of Covid, that concern seems much diminished. The fact is that much employment these days is remote. And collaboration increasingly happens online over Zoom. Many employers will therefore view your online degree as evidence of valuable 21st century professional skills such as independence, self-motivation, time management, and tech savvy.

If you are a student who thrives on the dynamic energy of in-person discussion, who requires the physical surroundings of a classroom to feel engaged, or who considers the social aspects of education to be of equal importance to the actual content of your courses, online education will be less than ideal for you (though depending on your circumstances, it may also be the only viable option).

While there is much in traditional campus-based education that can be substituted or simulated through the online medium, some students may find that there is nothing that can replace the conversation, collaboration, and motivation that occur in an actual in-person classroom setting. As you transition to online education, one of the biggest challenges you will likely face in getting the most out of your online classes is overcoming this difference between “real reality” and “virtual reality.” Fortunately, we’ve got some great Tips for Online Education Beginners.

The advantages of online classes are many. Above all, online courses give you the freedom and flexibility to attend class from anywhere that works for you, whether you’re at home, in a coffee shop, or in a quiet conference room at work. In many cases, you’ll also enjoy the convenience of asynchronous learning opportunities-educational experiences that you can complete at your own pace and on your own schedule. This may include pre-taped lectures, ongoing chat-board discussions, and 24/7 access to digital materials. And of course, just as there are some learners who prefer the energy of a live classroom, there are those who learn best when working in their own personal space, free from distractions. If this sounds like you, you might find the solitude of online learning to be a major advantage.

Resources for Online College-Bound Students

Whether you’re just getting started on your college search, you’re looking for survival tips on your way to a bachelor’s degree, or you’re preparing for the transition into grad school, we’ve got guides, how to’s and tons of other valuable resources to keep you moving forward in your educational journey.

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