By HMDG Staff
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing is a highly sought after degree by both nurses and health care organizations. Hospitals seeking the coveted Magnet status seek out BSN educated nurses because research shows that higher nursing education makes a significant difference in patient outcomes. BSN educated nurses are able to move into higher paying jobs and use their leadership and critical thinking skills. Specializations also require nurses to have a BSN including nurse anesthetist, clinical nurse specialist, and administration. There is good news for RN’s planning to continue their education and earn their BSN. There are quality online RN to BSN programs that require limited, if any, residency requirements, making them a great choice for working RNs. There are plenty of online nursing programs so we created this ranking of the top 30 to help you find the best program for your unique professional goals.
We created this ranking of the top online RN to BSN programs based on information we received from College Navigator. We looked at accredited institutions offering RN to BSN programs in an online format, with limited residency requirements to accommodate working professionals. We then applied our ranking criteria to determine the top 30 best RN to BSN online programs.
Ranking Methodology – Online RN to BSN Programs
The goal of this ranking list is to highlight the top online RN to BSN Programs. The ranking system is based upon a combination of important factors, including:
- cost of attendance
- student to faculty ratio
- overall graduation rates for students who began their studies in fall 2013 as indicated by College Navigator.
Specializations, awards and achievements earned by the school or department have also been noted.
The system controlling how points are awarded is as follows:
Student to Faculty Ratio
- 15:1 or less= 5 Points
- 16:1 to 20:1= 3 Points
- Greater than 20:1= 1 Point
Average Net Price
- Less than $15,000 per year= 5 Points
- $15,000 to $25,000 per year= 3 Points
- Greater than $25,000 per year= 1 Points
Average Graduation Rate
- More than 65%= 5 Points
- 40% to 65%= 3 Points
- Less than 40%= 1 Points
#30 – Herzing University – Madison, Wisconsin
RN to BSN completion program
School Profile
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average Net Price: $23,908/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 28%
Points: 7
Herzing University features a one year RN to BSN online nursing program for nurses who want to open doors to a variety of exciting career opportunities. Courses are offered in short, eight week sessions. Both full and part-time program options are available. Rolling admissions allow students to start fast and complete their degree. Experienced instructors and dedicated nursing support teams provide students with cutting edge instruction and a relevant curriculum. Planning to continue on to an MSN? Students can earn dual credit toward their MSN through the RN to BSN to MSN program track!
#29 – Pace University – New York, New York
RN to BS Degree in Nursing Online Program
School Profile
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Average Net Price: $32,492/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 57%
Points: 9
The College of Health Professions at Pace University has a 10% online RN to BSN program for nurses who need a program that accommodates their busy lives. Students can earn their degree in just three semesters and take up to 12 credits at the graduate level. There is no waitlist or entrance exam, allowing students to begin their education right away. Courses are taught by expert faculty who serve as mentors, supporting their students throughout the program.
#28 – California University of Pennsylvania – California, Pennsylvania
RN to BSN Online Degree
School Profile
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Average Net Price: $18,264/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 50%
Points: 9
The top online RN to BSN program at California University of Pennsylvania can help you advance your nursing education and improve your delivery of healthcare. This online RN to BSN is open to both full and part-time students. Courses cover areas like:
- Nursing Informatics
- Nursing Research
- Community Health Nursing
Students take one 16-week course and two eight week courses each term. New cohorts begin in the fall and spring.
#27 – South Dakota State University – Brookings, South Dakota
RN to BSN Online
School Profile
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average Net Price: $18,195/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 56%
Points: 9
South Dakota State University features a flexible online RN to BSN that is flexible, innovative, and agile. There are no residency requirements. Courses are seven weeks and each course is offered a minimum of three times per year. Core courses include:
- Genetics and Genomics in Nursing
- Healthcare Systems and Informatics
- Vulnerable Populations: Nursing Perspectives
Students can design their degree plan and finish at their own pace.
#26 – Old Dominion University – Norfolk, Virginia
RN to BSN Online
School Profile
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average Net Price: $16,681/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 53%
Points: 9
Old Dominion University offers a flexible online RN to BSN for busy nurses. New students are admitted during the fall, spring, and summer semesters. Both full and part-time program plans are available. Online courses can be accessed anytime from any location and most courses do not have scheduled meeting times. Most students complete the program part-time in about two years.
#25 – University of Northern Colorado – Greeley, Colorado
Nursing Bachelor of Science – RN–BSN
School Profile
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average Net Price: $15,965/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 52%
Points: 9
Earning an online RN to BSN nursing degree from the University of Northern Colorado can improve your credentials and enlarge your career opportunities. The program is designed for working nurses who want to take on leadership roles, increase their income, or raise their professional status. The program follows a cohort model which fosters supportive relationships. Courses are taught by instructors with extensive experience in clinical practice and research. The program culminates with an in-depth practicum that aligns with the student’s career objectives.
#24 – Sam Houston State University – Huntsville, Texas
RN to BSN Online
School Profile
Student to Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Average Net Price: $13,055/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 54%
Points: 9
The online RN to BSN from Sam Huston University is a comprehensive program for RNs who hold a current license and have passed the NCLEX-RN. Full and part-time program options are available to accommodate a nurse’s busy schedule. Courses include:
- Older Adult Health Management
- Community Nursing
- Introduction to Research
Graduates are prepared for leadership roles or to continue on to an MSN program.
#23 – Florida International University – Miami, Florida
Online Bachelor of Science Nursing (RN to BSN)
School Profile
Student to Faculty Ratio: 27:1
Average Net Price: $9,888/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 63%
Points: 9
The Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing and Health Sciences at Florida International University features a top online Bachelor of Science in Nursing RN to BSN program. Flexible full-time and part-time program tracks are available. Students can start the program at the beginning of any semester. Nursing courses include:
- Maternal and Child Nursing
- Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing
- Nursing in Global Health Care Systems
Students can earn their BSN in just three semesters. Graduates are prepared for graduate programs with advanced nursing degrees.
#22 – Northeastern State University – Tahlequah, Oklahoma
RN to BSN Online
School Profile
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Average Net Price: $9,415/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 33%
Points: 9
If you are seeking an online RN to BSN program that can be completed in just 10 months, Northeastern State University may be a great choice. There are six start dates each year and courses are offered in short, seven week terms. Major areas of emphasis throughout the program include family nursing and community health. The convenient pay by course tuition is affordably priced with the working student in mind.
#21 – California State University—Dominguez Hills – Carson, California
Bachelor of Science in Nursing [RN to BSN] (Online)
School Profile
Student to Faculty Ratio: 26:1
Average Net Price: $4,594/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 44%
Points: 9
California State University Dominguez Hills features an affordable online RN to BSN that can be accessed wherever and whenever you are like. Courses are offered on a semester schedule, but flexibility is given to accommodate working professionals. Online courses include:
- Cultural Diversity in Healthcare
- Community Based Nursing
- Pathophysiology
#20 – Sacred Heart University – Fairfield, Connecticut
RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
School Profile
Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Average Net Price: $41,570/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 73%
Points: 11
The CCNE accredited RN to BSN online from Sacred Heart University has a long tradition of excellence in nursing education. Students can complete their degree in just 18 months and transfer up to 90 credits. The curriculum is designed for working nurses. With six start dates offered throughout the year, students can get started earning their degree without a wait or hassle. Sacred Heart follows a whole-person approach to patient treatment and nursing leadership, giving students a unique educational experience.
#19 – Ohio University – Athens, Ohio
Online RN to BSN Degree
Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Average Net Price: $22,521/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 65%
Points: 11
The Ohio University School of Nursing offers a cutting edge online RN to BSN for those seeking career advancement. Ohio University understands the importance of balance. Their online RN to BSN allows students to review study materials and submit assignments online at any time. Required nursing major courses include:
- Family Nursing
- Gerontologic Nursing Care
- Diversity
Courses are five weeks long and there are eight start dates each year.
#18 – Utica College – Utica, New York
Online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)
School Profile
Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Average Net Price: $22,474/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 54%
Points: 11
The high-quality online RN to BSN program from Utica College is geared toward working nurses. Small class size and qualified faculty give students individualized attention for a personalized experience. The curriculum includes hands-on experiential learning that helps students master concepts like:
- Cultural sensitivity
- Patient-centered care
- Practice across the life span
Graduates are prepared for career paths like clinical nurse manager and nursing director.
#17 – The University of Alabama – Tuscaloosa, Alabama
RN to BSN Online
School Profile
Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Average Net Price: $20,623/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 71%
Points: 11
Bama by Distance offers a CCNE accredited online RN to BSN program with three start-dates each year. Nursing courses cover areas like:
- Leadership and Management Roles
- Nursing Informatics
- Complex Client Systems
Courses are taught by experienced faculty who bring their expertise to the classroom to give students what they need to be successful health care practitioners.
#16 – University of Cincinnati – Cincinnati, Ohio
RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Online
School Profile
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average Net Price: $19,219/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 71%
Points: 11
The College of Nursing at the University of Cincinnati features a highly reputable online RN to BSN program. The program includes nine required nursing courses. Each course lasts seven weeks except the capstone course which is 14 weeks. There are six start dates per year, adding increased flexibility to the program. Have credits from a previous program? UC provides students with easy credit transfer. Both full-time and part-time options are available. Full-time students can complete their degree in just two semesters.
#15 – Ohio State University – Columbus, Ohio
RN to BSN Online
School Profile
Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Average Net Price: $18,706/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 86%
Points: 11
The top online RN to BSN program at Ohio State has it all. Personalized attention, a quality curriculum, integration of evidence based practice, and a commitment to personal wellness set the stage for success. There are no textbook costs and all students pay the low in-state tuition rate. Both full and part-time students are welcome into the program. The curriculum includes projects that utilize critical knowledge and can be completed from the student’s current work site or community. Students can complete their degree in as few as 12 months.
#14 – University of North Carolina-Wilmington – Wilmington, North Carolina
Online Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
School Profile
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Average Net Price: $17,981/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 72%
Points: 11
The RN to BSN competition program at UNC Charlotte is a 100% online program with no required visits to campus. Students can begin the program in the summer, fall, or spring semesters and complete their degree in 12 months. This CCNE accredited program includes courses in:
- Aging and Health
- Community Health Nursing
- Design and Coordination of Care
The program is open to RNs who have earned their Associate’s degree or diploma.
#13 – University of Iowa – Iowa City, Iowa
Online RN to BSN 3+1
Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Average Net Price: $17,008/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 72%
Points: 11
The University of Iowa features an exciting online RN to BSN program that prepares students to work with diverse populations. Their RN to BSN 3+1 program allows qualified nursing to complete their BSN in just one additional year of study. Students complete a practicum course close to or in their community or they can take advantage of an immersion CPH practicum in Swaziland Africa. Students also complete a quality improvement project in their current work site.
#12 – Michigan State University – East Lansing, Michigan
Online RN to BSN Program
Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Average Net Price: $16,579/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 81%
Points: 11
Practicing Registered Nurses who want to take their career to the next level should check out the online RN to BSN program at Michigan State University. This part-time, five semester program includes clinical practice in community health and leadership. Courses cover areas like:
- Healthcare Policy, Regulation, and Finance
- Research, Ethics, and Evidence Based Practice for Nurses
- Community and Population Health
RN to BSN students can save money through several scholarship opportunities specifically for them, including the the Judge Paula Manderfield Endowed Scholarship.
#11 – University of Arkansas – Fayetteville, Arkansas
Online RN to BSN Program
School Profile
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Average Net Price: $16,263/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 66%
Points: 11
The University of Arkansas offers an affordable online RN to BSN program with asynchronous courses offered year-round. This 30 credit hour program takes just three semesters to complete. Courses are offered in eight-week terms and both full and part-time students are accepted. Applications are accepted year round and there are five start options per year. This CCNE accredited program prepares students for career advancement and mobility without the need to travel to complete their degree.
#10 – University of Wisconsin – Madison, Wisconsin
Online RN to BSN
Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average Net Price: $16,103/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 88%
Points: 11
BSN@Home, the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s online RN to BSN program, is designed for working nurses who want to complete their degree without relocating. Courses are offered in seven week sessions and traditional 14 week blocks. A required clinical experience can be arranged close to where students live. Planning to go into school nursing? Students can enroll in the 18-credit hour School Nurse Certification Program Program and complete some requirements concurrently while earning their degree.
#9 – Northern Arizona University – Flagstaff, Arizona
Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program Online
School Profile
Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Average Net Price: $14,236/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 57%
Points: 11
The Northern Arizona University School of Nursing offers a high-value online RN to BSN program for students seeking a comprehensive program. All courses are online and clinical projects are completed in your own community. Courses cover areas like:
- Nursing Informatics And Health Care Policy
- Nursing Care Of Families
- Public Health Nursing
Students receive support and guidance from dedicated professors and advisors and 24/7 tech support.
#8 – State University of New York (SUNY) – Delhi, New York
Nursing: Online (RN-to-BSN)
School Profile
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Average Net Price: $14,092/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 48%
Points: 11
SUNY Delhi offers an affordable online RN to BSN program that is flexible, affordable and manageable for working professionals. Students can study full or part-time and begin the program at one of five different enrollment dates offered throughout the year. Courses are offered in seven-week sessions. A tailored practicum experience allows students to utilize their new professional skills in their own community.
#7 – University of Louisiana-Lafayette – Lafayette, Louisiana
Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program Online
School Profile
Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Average Net Price: $12,184/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 51%
Points: 11
The University of Louisiana Lafayette offers a top value online RN to BSN program with three start dates each year. This 30 credit hour program can be completed in just 12 months. Courses include:
- Nursing Leadership and Management for RN to BSNs
- Trends in Genetics and Genomics
- Nursing in a Disaster
All students complete an eight-week capstone project that integrates what they have learned in the program to their professional nursing role.
#6 – Fort Hays State University – Hays, Kansas
Online RN to BSN Program
School Profile
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Average Net Price: $12,108/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 43%
Points: 11
The Department of Nursing at Fort Hays State University provides RNs a flexible online RN to BSN degree program in just three semesters. Students can begin the program during the fall, spring, or summer semesters. Courses include:
- Health Promotion
- Legal & Ethical Issues in Healthcare
- Nursing Inquiry for the RN
Clinicals can be completed in the student’s home community. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles as well as continued nursing study at the graduate level.
#5 – University of Central Florida – Orlando, Florida
Online RN to BSN
School Profile
Student to Faculty Ratio: 30:1
Average Net Price: $11,617/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 72%
Points: 11
The UCF College of Nursing features an online RN to BSN that is both convenient and affordable. New students are admitted three times a year and both full and part-time program plans are available. Courses include:
- Leadership, Management and Role Development
- Health Care Issues, Policy, and Economics
- Health Promotion Across the Lifespan
All RN to BSN students complete a practicum in community and public health in their own community.
#4 – University of South Florida – Tampa, Florida
Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Online
School Profile
Student to Faculty Ratio: 23:1
Average Net Price: $9,787/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 75%
Points: 11
University of South Florida features a one of a kind RN to BSN program with focus areas. Students can choose to focus on:
- ambulatory care nursing
- leadership/management
- patient/staff education
- clinical excellence
Students can complete the program in five part-time semesters or three full-time semesters depending on their personal and professional obligations. All students complete experiential learning in three of their core courses in their own community.
#3 – University of Utah – Salt Lake City, Utah
Online RN to BSN Degree
Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average Net Price: $13,739/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 70%
Points: 13
The University of Utah offers an RN to BSN online for licensed RNs who want to take their career to the next level. Students benefit from learning experiences in areas like health promotion and global and public health nursing. All students complete a clinical capstone during their fourth semester. Students stay engaged through group assignments, discussion forums, and peer reviews. Students with a passion for geriatric nursing leadership can choose a specialty track in this area that appears on their transcript.
#2 – University of Wyoming – Laramie, Wyoming
Online RN-BSN
School Profile
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Average Net Price: $12,880/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 60%
Points: 13
Using a curriculum based on concepts and not content, the online top RN to BSN degree program from the University of Wyoming is both innovative and exciting. Students learn big ideas and skills that are proven to positively influence patient outcomes. Courses are offered in eight week sessions that make it easier for busy students to fit them into their schedule. Courses include:
- Public/Community Health
- Leadership in Healthcare Today
- Health Care Informatics
Scholarships are available to RN to BSN students that can help reduce the cost of earning their degree.
#1 – Appalachian State University – Boone, North Carolina
Online RN-BSN
School Profile
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Average Net Price: $10,525/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 73%
Points: 13
Our top choice for an online RN to BSN is offered by Appalachian State University. This part-time program is accredited by the CCNE and can help you secure a higher paying job or begin graduate study in nursing. Appalacian offers non-traditional clinicals that include class projects and research. Students can complete their degree in just one year. Major courses include:
- Nursing Care of Communities
- Nursing Informatics
- Health Assessment
Applicants should hold an associate’s degree in nursing or a diploma in nursing and an unrestricted current RN license to be considered for admission.