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by
Amanda Marten, MSN (Columnist)
Starting a nursing career with an associate degree or diploma provides a solid foundation. However, for RNs seeking to advance, expand opportunities, and increase earnings, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is the logical next step.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BSN holders have access to a broader range of job opportunities, especially in specialized settings. A 2022 AACN survey found that 77% of employers prefer BSN-prepared nurses, with 41% requiring it for new hires. To help fast-track your education, we've compiled a list of the fastest RN to BSN programs.
What Is an Accelerated RN to BSN Program?
The fastest, or more formally referred to as accelerated, RN to BSN programs are designed for ADN-prepared RNs to quickly enhance career prospects, increase salary potential, and build on their nursing skills without compromising quality. These programs leverage prior experience to fast-track the process and offer flexible options, including online, in-person, part-time, and full-time formats to meet diverse student needs.
While all RN to BSN programs share these qualities, accelerated programs typically operate at an increased pace and rigor of studies. This means students should expect a high workload in a short amount of time. Accelerated programs often use block scheduling or quarter systems and require more intensive schedules each semester.
Why Obtain a BSN?
Many healthcare organizations are transitioning to hiring only BSN-degree nurses due to the Institute of Medicine's (IOM) recommendation. In addition, to improve patient outcomes, the Magnet Recognition Program requirements advise that nursing leaders have a BSN or higher.
BSN RNs also tend to earn more compared to their counterparts with associate degrees. In addition, if you want to become an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) or obtain a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), a bachelor's degree is the next best step.
Fastest RN to BSN Programs in 2025
Most RN-to-BSN programs offer full-time or part-time tracks. However, almost all fast-track or accelerated programs require a full-time commitment. Program types, lengths, start dates, and admission requirements will vary.
The following schools have been selected based on allnurses' methodology of surveying our readers to understand what they value most while selecting schools with the addition of graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, and admission rates of hundreds of the most prominent nursing schools in the United States.
1. Northern Kentucky University
Located in Highland Heights, KY, Northern Kentucky University offers an online RN to BSN pathway with multiple start dates throughout the year. This program can be completed in as little as ten months, providing flexibility to fit your schedule and low tuition costs.
In this online nursing program, you will enhance your professionalism and passion for helping others by gaining the leadership skills needed to excel in your professional practice. The curriculum includes a focus on research, vulnerability, leadership and management theories, health informatics, and genetics and genomics.
Upon completion of the program, you will be prepared to work in various roles in practice areas such as acute care settings, intensive care units, specialty areas (e.g., pediatrics, maternity, mental health), and community health settings (e.g., schools, clinics, health departments). Additionally, you will be equipped to take on leading clinical and magnet roles, including positions such as Public Health Nurse, Care Coordinator/Navigator, Case Manager, Quality Coordinator, and Charge Nurse.
- Tuition: $9,750 for the entire program.
- Mode: Online
- Duration: 10 months
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Admission rate: 87%
- Graduation rate: 47%
2. Regis College
Regis College, located in Weston, Massachusetts, provides an online RN to BS Degree Completion Program tailored for working nurses. This program offers practicality and accessibility through options for asynchronous or Zoom synchronous hybrid classes, without a clinical component. Students can transfer 45 credits for associate's degree nursing courses and must hold an active RN license. One of the program's highlights is personalized academic support from faculty and advisors, ensuring a tailored educational experience.
- Price: $603 per credit hour
- Mode: Online
- Duration: 12-16 months (as few as five semesters)
- Accreditation: ACEN
- Admission rate: 89%
- Graduation rate: 67.3%
Regis offers a BSN and more flexibility in their program (however Regis has had bad reviews regarding their faculty and the resources they have in the school)
by gregmRN890. Join the conversation at Anyone applying to Simmons College Direct Entry MSN Program 2012?
3. Florida International University
Florida International University's fully online or hybrid RN to BSN program, located in Miami, focuses on offering nursing classes relevant to your workplace experience. The program requires 120 credit hours to graduate and is designed to enhance your skills and marketability in the healthcare sector.
One of the key advantages of FIU's program is its flexibility, allowing students to enroll at any semester start. Additionally, the program offers the convenience of completing clinical hours at any location with an approved preceptor. This flexibility makes it easier for working nurses to pursue further education while continuing their professional responsibilities.
- Tuition: $253 per credit hour (FL residents); $648 per credit hour (non-residents)
- Mode: Online
- Duration: 1 year, 120 credit hours
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Admission rate: 64%
- Graduation rate: 73.9%
4. Florida Gateway College
Located in Lake City, Florida, Florida Gateway College offers an online RN to BSN program consisting of 31 credit hours. The program provides a robust and flexible educational pathway for aspiring nurses, designed for registered nurses holding an Associate's degree. It focuses on preparing them for advanced roles in the nursing field.
One of the program's highlights is its fully online delivery, ensuring that distance learners have access to critical practical experiences through an innovative virtual simulation lab. The program also emphasizes leadership, management, and community healthcare needs, with career coaching available for graduates. This comprehensive approach makes Florida Gateway College's RN to BSN program an ideal choice for nurses looking to enhance their careers.
- Tuition: $5,125 estimated total cost
- Mode: Online
- Duration: 12 months (full-time) or 24 months part-time.
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Admission rate: 100%
- Completion rate: 100%
- Job Placement rate: 100%
5. Herzing University
Herzing University's RN to BSN program, offered at its many campuses, provides a career-focused and leadership-oriented curriculum for registered nurses seeking to advance their degrees. With its rolling admissions, the program ensures that students have the flexibility to start their education at a time that suits them best.
- Tuition: $415 per credit hour
- Mode: Online
- Duration: 12 months
- Accreditation: CCNE (most campuses)
- Admission rate: 94%
- Graduation rate: 71%
I need my job to help provide for my family and with Herzing they offer the program at night which is convenient for some of us. Honestly after FA, scholarships, tuition reimbursement for your BSN with Herzing it's about $50-$60K which puts them in the same bracket as some of these other private colleges within the area.
by shortie062. Join the conversation at Herzing University
6. University of North Carolina at Wilmington
The University of North Carolina Wilmington's online RN to BSN program is crafted to meet the needs of working nurses, offering a flexible and accessible pathway. With six start dates available each year and the option to complete clinical hours at your workplace, the program prioritizes convenience. Emphasizing practical skills alongside academic growth, it provides nurses with opportunities to advance their careers and pursue graduate-level education. This comprehensive approach makes it an appealing choice for those seeking to broaden their professional horizons in nursing, equipping them with the knowledge and confidence to excel in competitive healthcare fields.
- Tuition: $6,299.10 estimated total tuition
- Mode: Online
- Duration: 12 months
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Admission rate: 68%
- Graduation rate: 72%
University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) offers 100% online RN-BSN, relatively low cost (depends on the pre-requisites you need to do), which can be completed in short time (again, shorter if you have pre-reqs completed)... Another advantage is you will get a grade point average, not pass/fail, which is important depending on the type of graduate work you might want to do later.
by Squiggie. Join the conversation at RN to BSN?
7. ECPI University
In Newport News, Virginia, ECPI University offers a dynamic and flexible Nursing Bachelor's Degree program, designed to cater to both full-time and part-time students. This program, available online or in a hybrid format, is tailored to accommodate the needs of working nurses seeking to expand their expertise and advance their careers in nursing.
ECPI University's state-of-the-art online program is a blend of innovation and convenience, without compromising on quality. Full-time students can engage in an immersive learning experience by enrolling in two online classes each term, including both general education and nursing courses. Part-time students have the option to take a more measured approach, taking one course at a time, thus allowing them to balance their education with family and work responsibilities. The program is meticulously structured to ensure that each student, whether full-time or part-time, gains the critical knowledge, skills, and perspective required for higher-level responsibilities in the nursing field.
- Tuition: $12,000 (core nursing courses) and $250 per credit for six Arts & Science courses
- Mode: Online
- Duration: 12 months
- Accreditation: ACEN
- Admission rate: 82.5%
- Graduation rate: 59.5%
ECPI is a little pricey but you can offset the price by doing a little homework. Check to see if your job or spouse's job has a partnership with ECPI.
by christyRN70. Join the conversation at ECPI Nursing Program in Charlotte NC ??
8. Indiana University
Indiana University's RN to BSN degree completion option is a testament to flexible and advanced online learning. Emphasizing a balance between theoretical knowledge and practical skills, this program is tailored to cultivate nursing leaders, researchers, and innovators ready for graduate studies. It stands out for its comprehensive curriculum, focusing on the strategic management of healthcare resources, ethical and legal aspects of nursing, and preparation for diverse healthcare settings. Indiana University, renowned for its top-ten online nursing program ranking, offers this course with a focus on convenience and adaptability to students' lifestyles, supporting career advancement even before graduation.
- Tuition: $350 per credit hour (IN residents) or $455 (non-residents)
- Mode: Online
- Duration: 12 months (full-time), 18-24 months (part-time)
- Accreditation: ACEN & CCNE campus dependent
- Admission rate: 82%
- Graduation rate: 78.9%
9. Kent State University at Kent
Located in the vibrant town of Kent, Ohio, Kent State University's RN to BSN Program is renowned for its commitment to nursing education excellence. This program is particularly notable for its comprehensive approach, seamlessly blending academic rigor with practical application.
The program's curriculum is designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of practicing nurses, preparing them for a more influential role in the healthcare system. Students in this program benefit from Kent State's rich educational resources and a supportive online learning environment, ensuring they are well-prepared for the challenges and advancements in the nursing field.
- Tuition: $400 per credit hour
- Mode: Online
- Duration: 12 months.
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Admission rate: 87.3%
- Graduation rate: 61.4%
10. Galen College of Nursing - San Antonio
Located in Texas, the Galen College of Nursing San Antonio campus offers a unique and innovative online RN to BSN program specifically designed for working nurses. The program distinguishes itself with its interactive course content, including 3D animations, which enhance the learning experience and provide a deeper understanding of complex nursing concepts.
Galen College focuses on a student-centric approach, offering personalized guidance and support, particularly in the transfer of credits. This includes a thorough evaluation of transfer credits for RN to BSN students, both in general education and nursing course credits, ensuring that each student's educational journey is tailored to their individual needs and previous academic achievements. The program's cutting-edge approach and commitment to student success make it an outstanding choice for nurses looking to advance their education and career in the nursing field.
- Tuition: $407 per semester credit hour.
- Mode: Online
- Duration: 12 months, may vary based on credits transferred from ADN education.
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Admission rate: 100%
- Graduation rate: 91%
11. Stony Brook University
Stony Brook School of Nursing, situated in Stony Brook, New York, presents a distinctive and innovative RN to Baccalaureate Program known for its blend of online learning and on-campus engagement. This program is designed to expand the horizons of registered nurses by focusing on the global landscape of healthcare. Emphasis is placed on developing critical skills in communication, collaboration, leadership, and the delivery of evidence-based, socially just care to a diverse range of individuals, families, and populations.
The curriculum integrates various theoretical models of professional nursing and healthcare, applying them to real-world scenarios. This facilitates the smooth transition of nurses from their current level of practice to a more advanced baccalaureate proficiency. The program, while primarily asynchronous and online, also includes two on-site days and one synchronous virtual day, offering a unique blend of flexibility and direct engagement. Moreover, the program's structure allows for the integration of prior learning and credits, ensuring a personalized educational journey for each student.
- Tuition: $467.20 per credit (NY residents) or $1,291.20 per credit (non-residents)
- Mode: Hybrid
- Duration: 12 months
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Admission rate: 48%
- Graduation rate: 76%
I do recommend the 1 year option if you have the time to sit and do school work. I am in the 2 year option and regret not doing the 1 year. I still am young and live at home so I could of done it. I am enjoying the program and have learned alot even with it being online.
by Katie_K94, BSN. Join the conversation at Stony Brook RN- BSN 2019
12. University of Wyoming
Located in Laramie, Wyoming, the University of Wyoming's Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing offers a distinctive RN-BSN Completion program that is tailored for associate degree or diploma-prepared licensed RNs seeking to enhance their nursing credentials. This program is delivered entirely online, making it a convenient choice for working professionals across the nation, with no on-campus attendance required. The University of Wyoming ensures the program's accessibility to a wide range of students, with specific provisions for active military personnel and their dependents.
- Tuition: Estimated annual tuition of $17,468 (WY residents) or $34,278 (non-residents)
- Mode: Online
- Duration: 12 months (full-time), 2-3 years (part-time)
- Accreditation: CCNBE
- Admission rate: 96.8%
- Graduation rate: 58.9%
I was able to complete the program in a little over a year, but I did have to take a couple classes at a local community college to do it in that time frame. The program is pretty straight forward and the online component makes it very flexible with a work schedule. The price also allowed me to pay out of pocket and not take on any loans.
by ckh23, BSN, RN. Join the conversation at University of Wyoming RN to BSN Program
13. Purdue University Global
Purdue University Global's online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is specifically designed to develop strong leadership skills in nursing, providing a strategic pathway for nurses aiming to enhance their professional standing in the healthcare industry. One of the program's key advantages is its recognition of prior learning, allowing students to transfer up to 75% of their nursing credits, a feature that underscores its flexibility and respect for existing professional expertise.
Tailored for the busy schedules of working nurses, this RN-to-BSN program offers a highly adaptable online learning environment. Courses are accessible without mandatory log-in times, effectively removing schedule conflicts and commuting challenges. The program's continuous enrollment option ensures that nurses can begin and progress in their education journey without delays. This carefully structured program not only focuses on developing essential healthcare and leadership skills but also facilitates practical application through convenient clinical practice experiences.
- Tuition: $315 per credit
- Mode: Online
- Duration: 18-months
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Admission rate: 100%
- Graduation rate: 41%
RN to BSN Admission Requirements
When applying to any RN to BSN program, you must meet the admission requirements of the school and the nursing program, which will vary slightly by the institution. Typical RN to BSN nursing program requirements include the following criteria:
- Completion of an ADN, Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN), or Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS) program through an accredited institution, such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
- Hold an unrestricted RN license.
- Basic Life Support (BLS) or CPR certification
- Proof of transcripts from all prior schools; the minimum GPA is usually a B (3.0)
- Proof of clinical practice and practicum hours
- Background check and drug screen
- Up-to-date immunizations and a current physical examination
Many programs require minimum previous coursework credits and a minimum grade point average (GPA). If you earned a C in any of your previous classes, consider retaking them to achieve a higher score before applying.
RN to BSN Costs
Selecting an RN to BSN program involves several financial considerations. Here's a breakdown of the key cost factors:
- Tuition Variability: Tuition fees for RN to BSN programs differ widely. For example, Northern Kentucky costs more than $9,000 for the entire program while the University of North Carolina at Wilmington costs just over $6,000. Public institutions often charge lower rates for in-state students compared to private colleges. While online programs may reduce costs by eliminating campus facility expenses, their tuition can be comparable to traditional on-campus programs.
- Additional Fees: Beyond tuition, students may incur various fees. Online courses frequently include technology fees to support digital platforms. Lab fees are applicable for practical components, and expenses for textbooks, uniforms, and other materials are common.
- Financial Aid Options: Financial aid can significantly alleviate the cost burden. Options include federal aid via FAFSA, nursing-specific scholarships, and employer tuition assistance programs.
- Opportunity Costs: Pursuing higher education might lead to a temporary loss of income, especially if work hours are reduced. The time dedicated to studying also represents an indirect cost, impacting potential earnings.
- Long-Term Financial Benefits: Despite upfront costs, obtaining a BSN degree can enhance lifetime earnings and open doors to advanced career opportunities in specialized nursing fields and leadership roles.
RN to BSN Financial Aid Considerations
Understanding the available financial aid options, such as grants, loans, scholarships, and work-study programs, is essential for managing educational expenses effectively. By exploring these avenues and planning ahead, students can alleviate financial burdens and focus on their academic and professional growth.
Salary Expectations of BSN-Prepared Nurses in 2025
When considering a BSN, recognize that salaries are influenced by factors such as specialty, experience, and employer. BSN-prepared nurses often earn higher wages and benefit from tuition reimbursement programs. Additionally, salaries vary by location, healthcare facility type, and experience level. Keep these factors in mind as you plan your nursing education and career. To help you make an informed decision, we have outlined the differences in RN salaries as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Statistics (BLS).
RN Wage
- Mean Hourly Wage: $45.42
- Mean Annual Wage: $94,480.00
Top Paying States for RNs
- California: $137,690.00
- Hawaii: $119,710.00
- Massachusetts: $113,440.00
- Oregon: $111,030.00
- Alaska: $109,210.00
Top Paying Industries for RNs
- Federal/State/Local Govt. (NOT schools or hospital) $114,860.00
- Employment Services: $110,230.00
- Pharmaceutical & Medicine Manufacturing: $108,640.00
- Medical Equiptment Manufacturing: $106,640.00
- Merchant Wholesalers, Nondurable Goods: $103,940.00
Highest Employment Areas for RNs
- General Hospitals $96,830.00
- Physician Offices $83,110.00
- Home Health $87,430.00
- Outpatient Care Centers $102,640.00
- Employment Services $110,230.00
More often than not, there is a noticeable income gap between ADN-prepared and BSN-prepared RNs, with BSN RNs generally earning higher salaries. However, the BLS does not differentiate between these educational levels in its salary reports. Using data from ZipRecruiter, we can identify the salary differences between ADN RNs and BSN RNs.
Average ADN RN Salary:
- Hourly Wage: $39.00
- Annual Wage: $80,321.00
Average BSN RN Salary:
- Hourly Wage: $46.00
- Annual Wage: $96,546.00
U.S states with the highest BSN RN salaries are:
- Washington: $126,428.00
- New York: $112,075.00
- Vermont: $110,049.00
- California: $107,620.00
- Maine: $104,591.00
By understanding these factors and differences in nursing salaries, you can make informed decisions about your nursing education and career to maximize your earning potential. To further analyze the differences in nursing salaries, check out the allnurses Nursing Salary Guide.
BSN RN Job Outlook
As of 2022, the U.S. nursing workforce included 3,172,500 professionals. The BLS projects a 6% growth by 2032, adding about 177,400 positions and reaching a total of 3,349,900. Additionally, there will be around 193,100 annual job openings for RNs.
This growth presents significant opportunities for BSN graduates, driven by a nursing shortage, fewer enrollments, and many nurses retiring within the next twenty years. Despite COVID-19 challenges, the demand for skilled nurses, particularly for an aging population, remains high.
Job competition varies by region, so it's essential to research local healthcare needs when planning your nursing career
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Are the Fastest RN to BSN Programs Worth It?
Although the fastest RN to BSN programs offer significant advantages in terms of time and cost savings, and career advancement, they also come with challenges like intensive workloads and potential stress. It's crucial to weigh these factors based on personal circumstances and career goals.
Fastest RN to BSN Pros
- Time Efficiency: Fast-track programs allow you to complete your BSN degree in a significantly shorter time, often within 12 months. This is ideal for those eager to advance their careers quickly.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Shorter program durations can lead to lower overall tuition costs, especially in programs with a flat rate for the entire course, making them financially appealing.
- Convenience and Flexibility: Many of these programs are offered online, providing flexibility for working nurses to balance their studies with professional and personal commitments.
- Career Advancement: Completing a BSN opens up more opportunities for leadership roles and specialized nursing fields, potentially leading to higher salaries and job security.
- Meeting Industry Standards: With the trend of healthcare organizations preferring BSN-degree nurses, completing a BSN meets current industry standards and recommendations, enhancing employability.
Fastest RN to BSN Cons
- Intensive Workload: The accelerated pace means a more condensed and intensive workload, which can be challenging to manage, especially for those working full-time.
- Limited Interaction and Networking: Online and accelerated formats may offer fewer opportunities for in-person interaction and networking with peers and faculty, which can be a valuable part of the learning experience.
- Stress and Burnout Risk: The fast pace and high volume of work in a condensed time frame can lead to increased stress and potential burnout.
- Potential for Lower Depth of Learning: The accelerated nature of these programs might mean less time to explore and absorb complex subjects compared to traditional programs deeply.
- Eligibility and Prerequisites: Fast-track programs often have specific prerequisites and eligibility criteria, such as needing a certain GPA or specific coursework completed, which might not be feasible for all RNs.
- Perceived Quality: There may be a belief, whether justified or not, that accelerated nursing programs are of lesser quality. This perception can impact both student expectations and employer views.
How to Choose a Nursing School
Reasons for choosing a nursing school will vary per student and their specific needs. Some students value the cost of education, while others may place greater emphasis on NCLEX pass rates, academic reputation, or other factors. Although it will vary by individual, a survey by allnurses revealed the top 11 reasons nursing students chose their programs:
- Cost
- High NCLEX Pass Rate
- Location
- Academic Reputation
- Availability of Financial Aid and Scholarships
- Length of Time to Obtain Degree
- Flexibility of Schedule
- Curriculum
- Campus and Surroundings
- Nursing Clinicals Location
- Availability of Online Courses
Ultimately, prospective students should assess their needs and pick schools that are the best fit for them. Accreditation is a crucial consideration when choosing an RN to BSN program. It ensures your nursing education meets national standards and prepares you for a successful career. Here's why you should ensure your prospective RN to BSN program holds accreditation:
- National Standards: Accredited programs uphold national standards in nursing education, including curriculum, faculty qualifications, resources, and clinical training. Regular evaluations ensure continual alignment with the latest educational benchmarks, guaranteeing a high-quality education for students.
- Prerequisite for Licensing: Graduating from an accredited program is often mandatory for state licensure in many states. This requirement underscores the program's recognition and compliance with professional standards, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to practice as registered nurses.
- Career Opportunities: Employers prioritize graduates from accredited programs, as it signifies a top-tier education in line with national standards. Accreditation also expands career options and provides flexibility for roles like travel nursing or relocation, especially in states mandating nursing school accreditation.
- Credit Transfer: Credits earned in an accredited ADN or BSN RN program are more likely to be accepted by other nursing institutions. This facilitates seamless transitions for transfer students or those pursuing advanced nursing degrees, such as an MSN or DNP.
- Professional Recognition: Completion of an accredited nursing program enhances professional credibility. It showcases education and training in alignment with national standards for nursing practice, contributing to a robust and comprehensive learning experience.
Accredited BSN programs, recognized by organizations such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), adhere to strict national standards. This ensures that nursing students receive comprehensive training and are well-prepared to enter the nursing workforce upon graduation.
RN to BSN Programs Near Me
Discover the best RN to BSN programs in the following states:
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