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Despite ongoing shortages, there's promising news in the nursing industry. To combat high nurse-to-patient ratios, the Health Resources and Services Administration announced $100 million in funding to train nurses and increase faculty at nursing schools. Legislators have also allocated funds to address nursing issues at the state level.
Given the increasing demand, now is a great time to pursue the nursing profession. See what the best online nursing degrees have to offer in terms of coursework and career outcomes.
Did You Know...
The United States employs four times the number of registered nurses compared to physicians.
Source: AACN
Why Enroll in an Online Nursing Bachelor's?
- You'll get specialized training for an in-demand healthcare role.
- You can apply for an RN license and pursue work immediately after graduating.
- RNs can increase their earning potential and move into leadership roles by earning bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degrees.
- RN-to-BSN programs allow current RNs to earn bachelor's degrees in less time — usually in one year.
- A BSN prepares you to apply to graduate programs and pursue nurse practitioner or other advanced practice RN credentials.
- Online degrees are flexible and may be more affordable than on-campus programs.
Popular Online RN-to-BSN Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Online Nursing Degrees
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 The Best Online BSN Degrees
Ohio State University-Main Campus
Columbus, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Avg. Cost per Credit
In-State | $491
Out-of-State | $511
Credits to Graduate
30
The Ohio State University's online RN-to-BSN program offers a 12-to-15-month course of study for RNs looking to build upon the skills they learned in their diploma or associate degree in nursing (ADN) program. Coursework focuses on nursing advancement, school health services, and primary care.
Students must complete general education requirements either before or during the program. To apply, you must hold an ADN or nursing diploma.
#2 The Best Online BSN Degrees
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Avg. Cost per Credit
In-State | $179.19
Out-of-State | $715.80
Credits to Graduate
120 (30 for RN-to-BSN)
The University of Central Florida's online BS in nursing program emphasizes health promotion and clinical nursing practice. In addition, the program prepares students for leadership roles, such as nursing manager and chief nursing officer, and provides students with a solid foundation for graduate study in nursing.
UCF offers several tracks for its online nursing programs, including RN-to-BSN and ASN-to-BSN. Applicants must have RN licensure before applying.
#3 The Best Online BSN Degrees
University of Florida-Online
Gainesville, FL - 4 years
- Online
Programmatic Accreditation
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Avg. Cost per Credit
In-State | $129.18
Out-of-State | $552.62
Credits to Graduate
120
The University of Florida's online BSN program is designed to help working RNs further their education and careers. Students develop the skills and knowledge necessary to take on leadership roles in nursing. Potential jobs for graduates include hospice nurse, ICU nurse, surgical nurse, pediatric nurse, and school nurse.
UF's program accepts nurses with a Florida RN license or enhanced licensure through the Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC). Applicants must have already completed several general education requirements as well.
#4 The Best Online BSN Degrees
Florida International University
Miami, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Avg. Cost per Credit
In-State | $239.51
Out-of-State | $356.57
Credits to Graduate
30
Florida International University's online RN-to-BSN program helps licensed RNs demonstrate their marketability and value to employers. Coursework includes topics such as cross-cultural care, nursing leadership, and community health. You can complete the program in as little as one year or three semesters (including a summer semester).
RNs with transferable credits from other programs may apply. Students must complete at least 30 upper-level credits at FIU.
#5 The Best Online BSN Degrees
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Avg. Cost per Credit
In-State | $452
Out-of-State | $452
Credits to Graduate
24-30
UW-Madison's RN-to-BSN online program builds on the technical knowledge gained in an ADN program and adds the professional experience nurses typically need in order to take on managerial positions in healthcare. After earning a BSN, you can pursue leadership roles in nursing, teaching, management, or another professional specialization.
To apply, you must be a licensed RN. Applicants must also submit high school and college transcripts and a letter of recommendation.
#6 The Best Online BSN Degrees
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Avg. Cost per Credit
In-State | $330
Out-of-State | $330
Credits to Graduate
120
Liberty University's BSN program is a 100% online pathway specifically geared toward working RNs. The asynchronous program allows you to study at your own pace. It can be completed in as little as 12 months. Nurses will graduate with the skills and knowledge necessary to improve patient outcomes.
Liberty is a Christian university that grounds coursework in biblical principles. Applicants must already be licensed RNs.
#7 The Best Online BSN Degrees
Mississippi College
Clinton, MS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Avg. Cost per Credit
In-State | $307
Out-of-State | $307
Credits to Graduate
30
Mississippi College's RN-to-BSN online program allows working RNs to earn their BSN in as little as a year. The program's coursework uses evidence-based practice to teach nurses the information and critical reasoning necessary to provide exceptional patient care to diverse populations. You'll also learn management and leadership concepts to help you advance in your nursing career.
Mississippi College is a Christian university that incorporates faith-based principles into its coursework. Applicants must submit an online application, hold active RN licensure, and have a minimum 2.0 GPA.
#8 The Best Online BSN Degrees
University of Rochester
Rochester, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Avg. Cost per Credit
In-State | $600 (Finger Lakes region only)
Out-of-State | $1,200
Credits to Graduate
32
The University of Rochester's online RN-to-BSN program can transform your nursing career in as little as 16 months. The school helps students stay ahead of industry expectations, expand their patient care skills, and pursue new careers.
Critical thinking lies at the core of the BSN program's coursework. Rochester even gives all nursing students an iPad so they can complete online coursework with the necessary technology.
You can start the program in the spring, summer, or fall. You'll work with an advisor to develop a degree plan based on the number of credits you have when you start the program.
#9 The Best Online BSN Degrees
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Avg. Cost per Credit
In-State | $277.77
Out-of-State | $277.77
Credits to Graduate
30
UT Rio Grande Valley's RN-to-BSN online program allows RNs to level up in their careers while working full time. The online program teaches students about nursing leadership theories and healthcare management so they can pursue leadership roles. Coursework also emphasizes how to care for individuals, families, groups, and communities.
To apply, you must be a licensed RN, have a minimum 2.5 GPA, submit college transcripts, and fill out an online application.
#10 The Best Online BSN Degrees
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Avg. Cost per Credit
In-State | $320
Out-of-State | $320
Credits to Graduate
30
Southern New Hampshire University's RN-to-BSN online program gives RNs a leg up in the competitive and constantly evolving healthcare industry. You'll learn how to further your clinical development, practice evidence-based care, and promote population health. Asynchronous classes let you learn on your own schedule.
The university even offers an accelerated RN-to-MSN (master of science in nursing) pathway.
SNHU does not have an application fee and does not require SAT or ACT scores.
Does Accreditation Matter for BSN Programs?
Accreditation has numerous benefits for your academic and professional life. The two major programmatic accrediting agencies for nursing schools are the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
By attending an accredited nursing school, you can have assurance that your education meets strict industry standards. Institutional accreditation also provides the same validation for online colleges and brick-and-mortar schools. You must attend an accredited college to receive federal financial aid and qualify for graduate school.
Each state sets the standards to take the NCLEX-RN. To receive licensure, you must attend an approved nursing school, though some unaccredited schools may meet the criteria for the national exam. Still, employers nearly always prefer candidates from accredited programs.
What Will You Learn in an Online BSN Program?
Expect variations in coursework among colleges. Many of the best online BSN programs adhere to core competencies outlined by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). Nursing coursework explores informatics, nursing practice knowledge, professionalism, and person-centered care. Other common courses include:
-
Health Assessments
Enrollees develop the skills to gather essential patient data, document medical histories, and examine a patient's physical health status during health assessments. Assignments cover specific techniques for various patient populations. -
Human Anatomy and Physiology
Nurses learn about the human body and its functions in this class. Coursework explores tissues, organs, and cellular organization to teach future nurses about disease processes. -
Nursing Research and Theory
In this course, nurses build research skills through qualitative and quantitative methods, along with exploring key values for the profession. -
Pharmacology
Pharmacology covers drug therapy and its use in nursing practice. Topics covered include pharmacokinetics, drug toxicity, adverse effects, and drug classifications. -
Adult Health Clinical
In this experiential learning class, students apply their classroom learning in clinical settings. Enrollees collaborate with other healthcare practitioners to deliver care and develop treatment plans.
How Much Does an Online Nursing Bachelor's Cost?
You can expect to pay a yearly average of $14,465 in tuition and fees for a healthcare bachelor's degree, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Degrees costs vary significantly based on key factors. For instance, attending a private college instead of a public university often costs more.
Regarding private four-year colleges, for-profit schools charged an annual average of $14,301 in annual tuition and fees in 2020-2021, while students at private nonprofit schools paid $28,445. Public institutions charged $12,394 in this period.
Attending college outside of your state can also increase tuition costs. However, many of the best online BSN programs offer flat-rate tuition, allowing out-of-state learners to pay in-state tuition rates.
How Much Money Can You Make With an Online BSN?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), RNs in the bottom 10% of the profession earn roughly $61,250 per year, or $29.46 per hour.
With more experience and a higher degree, you can typically earn more. For example, RNs make a median annual salary of $81,220. The top 10% of RNs take home a median pay of $129,400 or more each year.
Your industry also significantly affects your salary. RNs employed by pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing companies make an annual mean wage of $110,270, while home healthcare services make a mean annual earning of $82,920.
How to Become a Registered Nurse: 6-Step Overview
1 | Define Your Goals
Decide on the degree you'd like to pursue. An associate in nursing degree (ADN) takes only two years, while a BSN requires at least four years. Both degrees qualify you to sit for the NCLEX-RN. However, many employers and the AACN recommend that nurses earn a minimum of a BSN, and a higher degree usually comes with a better salary.
Your decision likely depends on your career goals. Research common requirements by employers in the industries you'd like to enter.
2 | Compare Accredited Nursing Programs
Compare nursing schools by checking for accreditation. Make sure the nursing program has been accredited by a U.S. Department of Education-recognized accrediting agency such as the ACEN or CCNE. This status ensures that the nursing school has been appropriately vetted and will prepare you for the rigors of nursing. Graduate schools typically seek applicants from accredited undergraduate programs and institutions.
The program you choose depends on your academic background. For instance, if you already have a diploma or ADN, you can opt for an RN-to-BSN degree and graduate in 1-2 years while studying full time instead of four years.
Lastly, compare program costs, financial aid opportunities, and format options like on campus, online, and hybrid delivery.
3 | Earn Your Nursing Degree
The best online nursing bachelor's programs use virtual lectures and discussions to teach safe, effective nursing skills. Courses help you build cultural competency, critical thinking, and the leadership skills needed for a nursing career.
In-person labs and clinical rotations provide up to 700 work experience hours under the supervision of a licensed nurse. These hours build your patient-centered practice and help you to qualify for licensure. Additionally, placement sites can help you network.
4 | Pass the NCLEX-RN
About 45 days before you graduate from nursing school, you can sit for the NCLEX-RN exam. States require a passing score to receive RN licensure.
This computer-adaptive exam gets harder or easier as it progresses through its 70-135 questions. You'll receive up to five hours to complete the exam, which costs $200. NCLEX questions test your ability to think critically to provide safe and effective nursing care, manage patients and coordinate care, and reduce risks.
5 | Apply for State Licensure
Each state regulates its own RN licensure standards and penalties, including practicum hour requirements. Still, most states share common general requirements to become a licensed RN, including:
- Graduate from a state-approved nursing school
- Be at least 18 years old
- Complete additional coursework such as child abuse reporting curriculum
- Pass the NCLEX-RN
- Complete a licensing application with the included fee
6 | Renew Your License as Needed
RN licenses require renewal every 1-2 years. Specific requirements and procedures depend on the state. Generally, the RN renewal process requires paying a fee and completing a specific number of continuing education hours. Acceptable credits vary by state. For example, webinars and online courses offered through professional organizations may qualify for continuing education credit.
Q&A With Real Registered Nurses and BSN Grads
Q: What attracted you to the RN program you ultimately chose?
"There were two main factors for me. The first was having access to 1-on-1 assistance throughout the program. Smaller cohorts are more likely to have this. The other influencing factor was job placement."
"At the time, Texas Woman's University (TWU) … was one of the cheapest schools in the top 10 best nursing schools in Texas. I applied to a few Texas schools for my two-year prerequisite courses and was accepted, but ultimately I chose TWU because of cost."
Q: In your opinion, what is the value of earning a BSN?
"ADNs are becoming more obsolete and phased out. … It is valuable to earn a BSN right off the bat because you are more competitive on your application and often have a slightly broader science background that will aid in your nursing school courses."
"Earning a BSN gives you an edge above others who may only have a diploma or associate degree [in nursing]."
Q: What is something that surprised you about the field of nursing?
"I was most surprised at how much advanced medicine nurses are required to learn. Most nurses have shared information with doctors, which allows them to monitor and treat patients outside of doctors' rounds."
Q: What is your biggest piece of advice to students considering becoming RNs?
"If you can, try to shadow before you start your college courses to make sure that nursing is the right career for you. It is a valuable career, but can be emotionally, physically, and mentally draining if you are not fit for it."
"Be sure that you have a passion for nursing. Contrary to popular belief, a nursing degree is not easier than studying medicine. It may take fewer years, but it requires serious commitment and sacrifices to manage practicals, theory lectures, and rigorous examinations."
Frequently Asked Questions About Online BSN Degrees
How long is an RN-to-BSN program?
RN-to-BSN programs offer licensed nurses an accelerated pathway to bachelor's degrees. An applicant needs a diploma or ADN to enroll in this accelerated program. With full-time enrollment, an RN-to-BSN program can take as little as 12 months.
How do I find the best online BSN program?
The ideal online BSN program aligns with your career goals, budget, and schedule. To see if a BSN program fits your needs, consider retention, graduation, and NCLEX pass rates. Schools with solid resources and career and academic support services usually have high graduation rates.
Are online nursing bachelor's programs respected by employers?
Regardless of the mode of study, an accredited BSN meets high quality standards. Online learning has become increasingly popular and respected by employers in all industries. By 2021, about 61% of students nationwide enrolled in at least one distance learning course.
Is it difficult to earn an online nursing degree?
To complete an online BSN degree, you must possess the ability to study independently and commit to hard work, especially when completing asynchronous lessons. The fast-paced curriculum likely includes complex coursework and clinicals, as well.