The Best Online RN-to-BSN Programs of 2025
Credit: filadendron / E+ / Getty ImagesNurses who return to school for a bachelor of science degree in nursing (BSN) can advance their careers and increase their job prospects. According to a 2023 survey by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, employers have preferred to hire BSN-prepared nurses for 14 years straight.
Registered nurses (RNs) can earn a BSN online in just 12 months. Explore these top online RN-to-BSN bridge programs and learn tips on how to select and apply to a program. Discover financial aid options and your salary potential after graduation.
The Best Online RN-to-BSN Programs of 2025
University of Florida-Online
Gainesville, FL- 4 year
- Online
Why We Chose This School:
The UF Online RN-to-BSN is designed for RNs in Florida or with a multistate license. The program features courses in population health, policy and change in nursing practice, and professional nursing transformation, along with 90 hours of online and in-person clinical experiences.
We like UF Online's inclusion of virtual simulations for the program's clinical component. This helps limit in-person requirements for distance learners.
This program is approved by the Florida Board of Nursing and accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Highlights:
- Courses run entirely online and asynchronously
- Half of the clinical experience is completed virtually
- Five-semester program
Considerations:
- ADN degree from an ACEN-accredited program required
- Additional general education courses required for those without an ADN
- Background check and immunization record required
- In-State$3,358
- Out-of-state$15,000
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate92%
- Acceptance Rate65%
- Students Enrolled5,356
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online EnrollmentNot provided
- AccreditationYes
St Luke's College
- Sioux City, IA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
St. Luke's College's RN-to-BSN program is a degree completion program for licensed RNs. The program features core courses in health assessment, proactive nursing, and leadership in healthcare. There's also a population-focused nursing practicum at the end of the program.
We like that St. Luke's program offers special focus topics, such as women's health issues, pharmacology for nurses, and palliative nursing care.
This program is approved by the Iowa Board of Nursing and accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Highlights:
- Self-guided online classes
- Full- and part-time study options
- Half of students complete program within three years
Considerations:
- Active RN license required
- At least 24 credits in allied health coursework required
- In-person practicum
- In-State$19,440
- Out-of-state$19,440
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate100%
- Acceptance Rate23%
- Students Enrolled196
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
Charter Oak State College
- New Britain, CT
- 4 year
- Online
Why We Chose This School:
With Charter Oak's online RN-to-BSN program, licensed RNs can upgrade their credentials and boost career potential. The program covers topics in healthcare policy, systems leadership, and nursing research, and it includes a capstone component and two practicum sections.
We like that Charter Oak’s program is designed with Massachusetts' nursing core competencies in mind, ensuring that graduates possess applicable skills specific to their local healthcare settings.
This program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Highlights:
- Students may be eligible for statewide nursing scholarship
- Six annual start dates
- More than 75% of students graduate within five years
Considerations:
- Applicants without an accredited nursing degree or diploma must complete prerequisite courses
- Students must find practicums on their own
- In-State$7,656
- Out-of-state$10,056
- In-State$9,288
- Out-of-state$9,720
- Retention Rate100%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled1,602
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online EnrollmentNot provided
- AccreditationYes
Texas A & M University-College Station
- College Station, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
In an effort to help active RNs advance their education, TAMU's online RN-to-BSN program offers flexible study options for working professionals. The program features courses in nursing dimensions and informatics, leadership, and community health. There's also a practicum component during the final semester.
We like that TAMU has been recognized as a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education by the National League for Nursing, which demonstrates the quality of their approach to educating current and future nurses.
This program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Highlights:
- Recognized as a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education
- Complete practicums in your own community
- Complete program in 3-4 semesters
Considerations:
- Active RN license required by end of first term
- At least 59 prerequisite credits required
- Minimum 2.75 GPA recommended
- In-State$8,443
- Out-of-state$36,637
- In-State$6,885
- Out-of-state$19,593
- Retention Rate94%
- Acceptance Rate63%
- Students Enrolled76,633
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment40%
- AccreditationYes
The University of West Florida
- Pensacola, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
UWF's online RN-to-BSN program allows working nurses to quickly and flexibly earn a bachelor's degree in nursing. The 30-credit program features courses in evidence-based nursing practice, pathophysiology, and law and ethics in nursing, along with a 45-hour practicum across three direct care courses.
We like that UWF's direct care component takes the student's location and current employment into consideration. This ensures that working nurses can fit their practicum requirements into their work schedule.
This program is accredited by the CCNE.
Highlights:
- Complete in as little as one year
- One of the lowest tuition prices on this list
- Tuition waivers may be available for out-of-state students
Considerations:
- Associate degree required for admission
- Prerequisite courses may be needed prior to graduation
- In-State$3,735
- Out-of-state$16,004
- In-State$7,088
- Out-of-state$22,166
- Retention Rate85%
- Acceptance Rate48%
- Students Enrolled13,521
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment79%
- AccreditationYes
University of Rochester
- Rochester, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
Rochester's online RN-to-BSN program helps New York licensed RNs advance in their careers. Students take courses in patient and population care, biopsychosocial health assessments, and policy and finance. They also complete a professional practice section and a hands-on capstone course.
We like Rochester’s generous transfer credit policy, which accepts up to 96 credits. This can save you time and money on your degree.
This program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Highlights:
- Finish in as few as 16 months
- Scholarships available that cover between 50%-100% of tuition
- Named a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education
Considerations:
- New York State RN license required
- Students must pay for an optimized iPad
- In-State$60,550
- Out-of-state$60,550
- In-State$41,888
- Out-of-state$41,888
- Retention Rate93%
- Acceptance Rate36%
- Students Enrolled12,160
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment21%
- AccreditationYes
University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Madison, WI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
UW-Madison's online RN-to-BSN offers flexible schedules and practicums that require limited travel. The program features courses in information and health technology and chronic care management, all in seven- or 14-week sections. There's also a 60-hour practicum that you can complete at a location near you.
We like that UW-Madison allows you to start your BSN while still working on your ADN and RN licensure. This can help you fast-track your education and career.
This program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Highlights:
- Complete in 18-30 months
- Practicum completed at a site of your choosing
- Self-guided online classes
Considerations:
- Active RN license required within first semester of program
- Minimum 2.5 GPA and 24 credits required for admission
- Two half-day scheduled meetings required
- In-State$11,216
- Out-of-state$37,904
- In-State$10,728
- Out-of-state$24,054
- Retention Rate95%
- Acceptance Rate43%
- Students Enrolled50,633
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment24%
- AccreditationYes
Texas A & M International University
- Laredo, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
TAMIU's online RN-to-BSN program equips licensed RNs in Texas with the advanced skills and credentials required for many nursing leadership roles. RNs with multistate licenses may also qualify. The 32-credit program features courses in cultural determinants of health behavior, global health nursing, and the history of nursing, plus an 84-hour hands-on clinical component.
We like that TAMIU's program incorporates diverse practical nursing and health-related opportunities, including a 42-hour supervised clinical experience. This can introduce you to unique situations and experiences you might otherwise miss.
This program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
Highlights:
- Six start dates per year
- Complete in as few as 12 months
- Accelerated classes
Considerations:
- Valid Texas RN license or multistate license required
- Much higher out-of-state tuition rates than other programs on this list
- In-State$3,818
- Out-of-state$13,634
- In-State$3,350
- Out-of-state$10,712
- Retention Rate79%
- Acceptance Rate48%
- Students Enrolled8,505
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment61%
- AccreditationYes
Clemson University
- Clemson, SC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
Clemson's online RN-to-BSN is designed for RNs with an associate degree in nursing. The program features courses in healthcare genetics, health assessment, scientific writing and communication, along with leadership and critical care courses.
We like that Clemson has established partnerships with local community and technical colleges to make the transition easier for students. We also like that the practicum components focus on developing leadership skills.
This program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Highlights:
- Graduate in 12 months
- Fall and spring starts
- More than 10 nursing scholarships available
Considerations:
- Associate degree required
- Minimum 2.75 GPA for admission
- In-State$14,118
- Out-of-state$37,982
- In-State$10,858
- Out-of-state$22,566
- Retention Rate93%
- Acceptance Rate38%
- Students Enrolled28,747
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment44%
- AccreditationYes
Villanova University
- Villanova, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
Villanova's online RN-to-BSN program makes it easier for working RNs to advance their careers. The 60-credit program includes courses in principles of nutrition, health policy, health promotion and home health in the community. It also includes two eight-week practicums, a leadership fieldwork course, and a clinical decision-making assessment course.
We like that the National Student Nurses’ Association recognized Villanova as a Stellar School, highlighting the school's commitment to the professional development of its students. We also like the program's emphasis on developing clinical experience.
This program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Highlights:
- Students can complete practicums at local sites
- Program combines flexible and interactive online classes
- Designated as a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education
Considerations:
- Some online classes meet at specific times
- One of the costliest programs on this list
- Competitive admission with a minimum 3.0 GPA required
- In-State$60,768
- Out-of-state$60,768
- In-State$21,207
- Out-of-state$21,207
- Retention Rate96%
- Acceptance Rate23%
- Students Enrolled10,383
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment23%
- AccreditationYes
How We Rank Schools
We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best nursing programs, making it easy to find a program that meets your needs. Informed by data from the most reputable sources, including the U.S. Department of Education, our methodology is based on metrics that matter most to nursing students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. This list is from 2025.
Using Our Rankings: What To Look For in an Online RN-to-BSN Program
It’s important to consider several factors before enrolling in an online RN-to-BSN program. Each school has its own requirements, program formats, and coursework. Think about your goals and needs before deciding which program suits you best.
Admission Requirements
RN-to-BSN programs require an associate degree in nursing (ADN), although some admit those with a nursing diploma. Review the degree requirements, minimum transfer credits, and nursing prerequisites to find programs that match your experience.
Program Curriculum
While most programs offer similar core courses, they differ in the electives available to students. Consider what required and elective courses a program offers. Does the coursework reflect your areas of interest or prepare you for specialization?
Clinical Experience
Clinical requirements for RN-to-BSN programs vary. Some do not require clinicals for students with an ADN who have already completed clinical hours for their RN license. Online programs that require in-person clinicals may require distance learners to find a clinical placement on their own.
Accreditation
Accredited nursing programs meet high standards for academic quality. Earning a degree from an accredited nursing school allows you to pursue licensure, careers, and graduate study in the nursing field.
Program Length
Most online RN-to-BSN programs require 24-30 credits and take 12-24 months to complete. The total program length depends on the number of transfer credits from your ADN degree.
School NCLEX Pass Rate
Although RN-to-BSN graduates do not need to retake the NCLEX, the pass rate can still serve as a good indicator of how well a nursing program prepares students for RN licensure. Pass rates above the national average suggest better program quality and teaching effectiveness.
School Graduation Rate
The graduation rate measures how many students finished their nursing degree within a certain time frame. Higher graduation rates can indicate a supportive learning environment and commitment to preparing nurses for practice.
Online Learning Format and Requirements
When choosing a program, ensure the online learning format meets your needs. Review the technology requirements and check for any required clinical training on campus or at a health facility.
How Do Online RN-to-BSN Programs Work?
RN-to-BSN programs are designed for nurses with an ADN (or nursing diploma) who desire a BSN. These programs allow ADN-prepared nurses to bypass traditional four-year BSN programs and earn a BSN in just 12-24 months. Program length can vary based on the school or whether students are enrolled full or part-time.
Many RN-to-BSN programs are offered online. These flexible programs are ideal for working nurses and typically feature online asynchronous (recorded) or synchronous (live) courses and lectures throughout the week. Students must complete some requirements in person, such as clinical experiences and labs.
BSN programs offer core nursing courses accompanied by clinical training in adult medical-surgical, pediatrics, obstetrics, mental health, and critical care. They also feature additional coursework in nursing leadership and community health.
Applying to an Online RN-to-BSN Program
Applying to online RN-to-BSN programs begins with ensuring you meet eligibility requirements, filling out applications, and submitting required paperwork. Candidates must show proof they attained foundational nursing knowledge, whether through completion of certain nursing courses or a full nursing degree or diploma.
- Admission Materials: Proof of ADN or nursing diploma (or completion of a number of credits and prerequisite courses), official transcripts, and RN license. Some schools may admit candidates without an RN license as long as they gain licensure within the first semester of schooling. If attending a school based in a particular state, an RN license from that state may be required.
- GPA Requirement: 2.5-3.0
- Other Requirement: Internet access; special computerized devices or software may be required
Why Is Online RN-to-BSN Program Accreditation Important?
Nursing school accreditation ensures that a nursing program meets certain educational and practice standards established by accrediting bodies, such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Accredited programs undergo rigorous evaluations to ensure graduates have a high chance of passing the NCLEX-RN exam.
Choosing an accredited RN-to-BSN nursing program increases the likelihood that graduates will be prepared for RN roles, such as community health nurses or nurse leaders. It also makes students eligible for financial aid and allows them to transfer course credits to other accredited schools.
All nursing programs in our rankings are accredited.
Paying for Your Online RN-to-BSN Program
Several factors can impact the affordability of an online nursing program. These can include program length, required credits, in-state vs. out-of-state tuition cost, and whether students can work while enrolled.
Students may qualify for several financial aid opportunities to pay for their nursing degree. They can start by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA determines eligibility for government-funded grants or loans. Student loan forgiveness programs are also available to nurses who agree to work in high-need areas after graduation.
Nursing schools and private organizations offer need and merit-based scholarships and awards. Members of the armed forces and their family members may qualify for discounted tuition at some schools. Many healthcare employers also offer tuition reimbursement benefits to nurses who complete their degrees in exchange for a work commitment.
What Can You Do With a Degree From an RN-to-BSN Program?
An online RN-to-BSN program offers financial and career advantages. Earning an online BSN can take as little as one year of study and can lead to higher pay and increased job prospects.
The popularity of the BSN has grown. Between 2013 and 2020, the percentage of RNs with BSNs increased from 40% to 48%, while ADN holders fell from 32% to 28% in the same period, according to the Journal of Nursing Regulation.
The American Association of Colleges of Nursing strongly supports the BSN as the minimum educational requirement for RNs. Many employers, including acute care facilities, school systems, and public health agencies, hire only BSN graduates.
BSN-prepared nurses take on additional responsibilities in clinical settings, including as charge nurses and nurse managers. According to 2025 Payscale data, nurses with a BSN reported an average annual salary of $19,000 more than nurses with an ADN, $24,000 more than nurses with diplomas, and $44,530 more than licensed practical/vocational nurses (LPN/LVNs).
| Nursing Degree/Certificate | Average Salary (2025) |
|---|---|
| BSN | $98,000 |
| ADN | $79,000 |
| Nursing Diploma | $74,000 |
| LPN/LVN | $53,470 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Online RN-to-BSN Programs
With an RN-to-BSN program, you can earn a BSN in as little as one year. Designed for RNs, these bridge programs grant credit for holding an RN license, accelerating the completion time.
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