8 Best Online RN to BSN No Prerequisites Programs | 2024

For registered nurses (RNs) seeking to advance their careers and educational qualifications, an RN to BSN program without prerequisites can offer a streamlined path to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.

In this comprehensive guide, we explore the intricacies of RN to BSN programs without prerequisites, shedding light on the benefits, coursework, clinical training, and potential pros and cons associated with this educational track, all in order to provide a list of the best available.

Whether you're an aspiring RN looking to chart your academic journey or a working nurse seeking career advancement, understanding the dynamics of these programs can help you make informed decisions about your nursing education.

What Is an RN to BSN Without Prerequisites?

An RN to BSN program without prerequisites means that the program is designed for RNs who already hold an ADN or a nursing diploma and are licensed as RNs. In such programs, there are no additional prerequisite courses or requirements that need to be completed before starting the BSN coursework.

Here are some key features of an RN to BSN program without prerequisites:

• Designed for RNs: These programs are specifically tailored for individuals who are already licensed as RNs. They recognize the prior education and experience of RNs and build upon that foundation.
• No Additional Prerequisites: Unlike traditional BSN programs that may require students to complete certain general education or science prerequisites (e.g., biology, chemistry, mathematics) before starting the nursing coursework, RN to BSN programs without prerequisites allow RNs to directly enter the BSN curriculum.
• Advanced Nursing Courses: The curriculum of an RN to BSN program without prerequisites focuses on advanced nursing courses, leadership, research, and community health. The coursework is designed to enhance the nursing skills and knowledge of RNs and prepare them for broader roles in healthcare.
• Flexible Format: Many RN to BSN programs are offered in a flexible format, including online options, to accommodate the busy schedules of working RNs. This flexibility allows RNs to continue working while pursuing their BSN degree.
• Accelerated Options: Some programs offer accelerated paths, allowing RNs to complete their BSN in a shorter time frame, often by compressing coursework and offering year-round classes.
• Clinical Experience: While clinical requirements may vary, some RN to BSN programs include clinical experiences or practicums that provide hands-on learning opportunities in various healthcare settings.
• Bridge to Advanced Degrees: Completing an RN to BSN program can also serve as a stepping stone for nurses interested in pursuing advanced degrees in nursing, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). It is important to note, however, that prerequisite courses may be required for post-graduate studies.

It's essential to research specific RN to BSN programs to understand their admission requirements, curriculum, and format. While some programs do not have additional prerequisites, others may have specific requirements or recommendations, such as a minimum GPA or certain professional experience. Additionally, accreditation by nursing education accrediting bodies (such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing) is an important consideration when choosing an RN to BSN program.

Coursework

An RN to BSN program without prerequisites typically consists of coursework that builds upon the knowledge and skills acquired during an individual's prior nursing education and clinical experience as an RN. The curriculum is designed to provide a broader and deeper understanding of nursing practice, leadership, research, and community health. While specific courses may vary by program, here are common types of coursework you can expect in an RN to BSN program without prerequisites:

• Core Nursing Courses
  • Nursing Research: This course covers the principles of nursing research, including research design, data analysis, and evidence-based practice.
  • Nursing Leadership and Management: Focuses on leadership theory, healthcare management, and the role of nurses in healthcare organizations.
  • Nursing Ethics and Legal Issues: Explores ethical dilemmas in nursing practice and legal considerations in healthcare.
• Advanced Nursing Courses
  • Health Assessment: Provides advanced skills in physical assessment, including history-taking and physical examination techniques.
  • Community and Public Health Nursing: Covers population health, health promotion, and nursing interventions in community settings.
  • Nursing Informatics: Addresses the use of technology and informatics in healthcare delivery and nursing practice.
  • Nursing Care of Vulnerable Populations: Focuses on nursing care for populations with unique healthcare needs, such as children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses.
• Evidence-Based Practice
  • Evidence-Based Nursing Practice: Emphasizes the importance of using research evidence to guide nursing practice and improve patient outcomes.
• Healthcare Policy and Advocacy
  • Healthcare Policy and Advocacy: Examines healthcare policy development, healthcare delivery systems, and the role of nurses in advocating for healthcare reform.
• Professional Development
  • Professional Role Development: Focuses on the evolving role of nurses in healthcare, including cultural competence, interprofessional collaboration, and lifelong learning.
• Elective Courses: Some programs may offer elective courses that allow students to explore specific areas of interest or specialization within nursing.

It's important to note that the specific courses and their content may vary from one RN to BSN program to another. Additionally, the format of these programs can vary, with some offered entirely online, in hybrid formats (combining online and on-campus classes), or in traditional on-campus settings.

Clinical Training

In an RN to BSN program without prerequisites, clinical training typically focuses on enhancing the nursing skills and knowledge of RNs while providing them with opportunities to apply their learning in real-world healthcare settings. Clinical experiences in these programs often build upon the clinical experience and competence that RNs have gained during their prior nursing education and practice.

Here are some aspects of clinical training in an RN to BSN program without prerequisites:

• Clinical Practicum or Experiences: RN to BSN programs may include clinical practicum or experiences that allow students to work in healthcare settings under the guidance of experienced clinical instructors or preceptors. These experiences may vary in duration and scope but are designed to provide hands-on learning opportunities.
• Advanced Clinical Skills: Clinical training may focus on advanced nursing skills, physical assessment, and health promotion. Students may have the opportunity to practice skills such as physical examination, patient assessment, and health education in a variety of healthcare settings.
• Community Health Nursing: Some clinical experiences may involve community health nursing, where students work with diverse populations in community-based settings. This may include conducting health assessments, providing health education, and addressing public health issues.
• Leadership and Management: Clinical training may include experiences in healthcare leadership and management. Students may observe and participate in healthcare management activities, learn about the administrative aspects of healthcare organizations, and gain insights into nursing leadership roles.
• Application of Evidence-Based Practice: Clinical training often emphasizes the application of evidence-based practice. Students may be encouraged to integrate research findings into their clinical decision-making and practice to improve patient care.
• Patient-Centered Care: Clinical experiences aim to promote patient-centered care, focusing on the holistic needs of patients and their families. This includes communication skills, cultural competence, and patient advocacy.

Best RN to BSN Programs Without Prerequisites

The following schools have been selected based on allnurses' methodology of surveying our readers to understand what they value most, 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. National University - San Diego, CA

The RN to BSN program at National University is delivered onsite or 100% online, providing flexibility for working professionals. The program lays a foundation for professional nursing practice at the baccalaureate level, enhancing clinical knowledge and further developing critical thinking, communication, and therapeutic skills.

Program Overview: 

• Duration: Can be completed in as little as 11 months
• Tuition: $14,652 annual
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

 Program Highlights:

• No prerequisites required
• Year-round enrollment
• Flexible schedule with four- and eight-week course options
• Focus on one subject per month while maintaining full-time status
• Students who pass the NCLEX-RN exam receive 31.5 upper-division quarter unit credits
• Eligible "Transfer to Success Scholarship" applicants can receive up to $4,800
• The program allows students to earn a California Public Health Nurse Certificate
• Provides hands-on experience working with leaders and community partners

2. Saint John Fisher University - Rochester, NY

The RN to BSN online program at St. John Fisher University consists of two seven-week modules each semester. The program includes both nursing and liberal arts courses, and students can choose between part-time or full-time study. Coursework is taken online, with project-based experiential learning embedded into selected courses. These experiential learning opportunities allow students to apply theory to clinical practice.

As an RN to BSN online candidate, students will complete 60 credits in nursing, with 30 credits taken at Fisher and an additional 30 credits transferred from an associate degree or hospital-based diploma nursing program. Additionally, 60 liberal arts credits are required, including Fisher Core classes, general electives, and specific introductory statistics and ethics/bioethics courses.

Program Overview: 

• Duration: 12-18 months
• Tuition: $772 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Program Highlights:

• No prerequisites required
• 100% online format with 24/7 access to online tutoring support services.
• Fisher also offers an RN to BSN to M.S. Fast-Track option, where students can substitute graduate nursing courses within the undergraduate curriculum.
• The program prepares students to integrate coursework to promote holistic outcomes for patients, support interprofessional communication, apply critical thinking and decision-making, and engage in the scholarship of evidence-based practice and research.

3. Oklahoma City University - Oklahoma City, OK

The Kramer School of Nursing is recognized as one of Oklahoma's most prestigious nursing schools, known for its quality education. The program provides students with 94 hours of course credit for their active RN license, experience, certifications, and continuing education. The BSN requires a total of 124 credit hours, which includes 72 hours for an active, unencumbered U.S. RN license, 30 credit hours taken at Oklahoma City University, 18 credit hours in nursing courses, 12 credit hours of general education courses, and 22 transfer, portfolio, and/or additional credits from Oklahoma City University.

Program Overview: 

• Duration: 12 months
• Tuition: $11,700 total estimated tuition
• Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Nursing Excellence (ACEN)

Program Highlights:

• No prerequisites required
• 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio
• 3 start dates throughout the year
• Streamlined application and completion process
• All applicants who meet the admission requirements and eligibility criteria are accepted
• Choose between in-person or online cohorts
• Full-time or part-time study plans
• No additional math or science requirements
• On-site nursing classes meet just four hours per week
• No nursing exams, care plans, or clinical hours
• Completion in as little as nine months
• Small classes with individualized attention
• Flexible learning opportunities through online general education and/or elective courses
• Special package pricing for RN-BSN students

4. Illinois State University - Normal, IL

The Online RN to BSN program at The Mennonite College of Nursing at Illinois State University is designed to provide a seamless transition for registered nurses from their RN qualification to a BSN degree. The faculty ensures that students receive the necessary support throughout their academic journey. The program offers both full-time and part-time plans of study, catering to the needs of working professionals and providing the flexibility to balance work, studies, and personal commitments.

Program Overview: 

• Duration: 1 year (full-time), 2 years (part-time)
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Program Highlights:

• No Prerequisites Required: Specifically, chemistry or statistics are not required
• Spring and Fall start options
• Both part-time and full-time plans of study are available
• Students are admitted on a rolling basis
• The program equips nurses with critical skills for Magnet certification and Institute of Medicine (IOM) expectations
• Enhances career mobility and marketability
• Prepares students for leadership and management roles in the nursing field
• The online format of the program is internationally quality-certified through the non-profit organization Quality Matters

5. Nebraska Methodist College - Omaha, NE

The RN to BSN program at Nebraska Methodist College emphasizes a population health-based curriculum combined with practical experience. The admissions process is designed to be transfer-credit friendly, ensuring that students can smoothly transition into the program.

Program Overview: 

• Duration: 1 year (with the right transfer credits)
• Tuition: $320 per credit hour 
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Program Highlights:

• No Prerequisites Required: All coursework can be completed at NMC
• Most courses are structured to last 5 weeks, followed by a 1-week break before the next course
• Options for both full-time and part-time study
• 100% online format
• The program is designed to be transfer-credit-friendly

6. Eastern Michigan University - Ypsilanti, MI

The RN to BSN online program at Eastern Michigan University is structured to provide a deep understanding of the foundational elements of professional nursing, approaches to community health nursing, leadership and advocacy skills, and the application of evidence-based research. The curriculum consists of required nursing courses, nursing foundation courses, and general education courses. After admission, an advisor will assist students in determining which courses are required for degree completion.

Program Overview: 

• Duration: As few as 12-24 months
• Tuition: $328 per credit hour, $9,840 total tuition
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Program Highlights:

• No prerequisites required
• Designed to be flexible and affordable for working nurses
• Six start dates throughout the year
• Curriculum includes foundational elements of professional nursing, community health nursing approaches, leadership and advocacy skills, and evidence-based research application.
• Financial aid, including the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), is available for eligible students

7. Northeastern State University - Tahlequah, OK

The RN to BSN online program at Northeastern State University can be completed in as few as 10 months. The curriculum consists of 30 upper-division credit hours. Major areas of emphasis include family nursing, community health, leadership, and research. The program's goals are to provide a broadened educational base for the improvement of nursing practice, offer a baccalaureate program that instills lifelong learning, prepare RNs at the baccalaureate level for diverse roles and settings, and promote faculty and student involvement in health promotion activities.

Program Overview: 

• Duration: As few as 10 months
• Tuition: $9,165 (In-state) and $9,195 (Out-of-state) for the entire program
• Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Nursing Excellence (ACEN)

Program Highlights:

• No prerequisites required
• The program consists of 30 credit hours
• The curriculum focuses on areas such as family nursing, community health, leadership, and research
• The program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) with continuing accreditation through fall 2024.
• Graduates are prepared to provide primary health care in diverse settings, offer education to various groups, and engage in continuous learning.

8. Denver College of Nursing - Denver, CO

The RN to BSN Online program option at Denver College of Nursing has been crafted by experienced nurses keeping in mind the requirements and challenges faced by the licensed, working nurse. The program aims to provide a supportive environment where students can thrive and learn alongside their professional peers. The college emphasizes the success of each student, believing that the success of the students translates to the success of the institution.

Program Overview: 

• Duration: As few as 15 months
• Tuition: $14,668.60 total tuition
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Program Highlights:

• No prerequisites required
• The program is designed by nurses for nurses
• Asynchronous coursework allows flexibility with no set class times; complete it at your convenience
• 24/7 access to online courses 
• Students can earn their degree in a cohort of their professional peers
• Manageable schedule with only 2-3 courses per quarter
• The college offers a supportive, smaller school environment
• Denver College of Nursing is dedicated to the success of every student

Pros & Cons of an RN to BSN Without Prerequisites

While an RN to BSN without prerequisites can be advantageous for some individuals, they also come with certain pros and cons that should be considered before enrolling.

Pros

1. Accelerated Path: RN to BSN programs without prerequisites are often designed to be more efficient and less time-consuming than traditional BSN programs. This allows RNs to earn their BSN degree more quickly.
2. Minimal Admission Requirements: These programs typically have minimal or no prerequisites for admission, making it accessible for RNs with varying educational backgrounds.
3. Flexible Scheduling: Many RN to BSN programs without prerequisites offer flexible scheduling options, including online and part-time formats. This flexibility allows working RNs to continue their employment while pursuing their degree.
4. Career Advancement: A BSN degree can open doors to advanced nursing roles and leadership positions in healthcare. It may lead to increased job opportunities and higher earning potential.
5. Broader Skill Set: BSN programs often include coursework in leadership, research, community health, and evidence-based practice, which can enhance a nurse's knowledge and skills beyond clinical practice.

Cons

1. Intensive Curriculum: RN to BSN programs without prerequisites may have a more concentrated and challenging curriculum, as they aim to cover the content of a traditional BSN program in a shorter time frame. This can be demanding for students who are working full-time.
2. Limited Clinical Experience: Some of these programs may offer limited clinical experiences compared to traditional BSN programs. This may impact the depth of hands-on training and exposure to various clinical settings.
3. Limited Specialization: These programs may have a fixed curriculum with limited opportunities for specialization. If a student has a specific nursing interest, they may need to pursue additional education or training in that area.
4. Admission Competition: Due to the accessibility and popularity of these programs, there may be significant competition for admission. Meeting admission criteria such as GPA and prerequisites may still be challenging.
5. Varied Program Quality: The quality of RN to BSN programs without prerequisites can vary widely. It's important to research and choose a reputable program that meets accreditation standards.

Ultimately, the decision to pursue an RN to BSN program without prerequisites should be based on an individual's career goals, personal circumstances, and learning preferences. Prospective students should carefully evaluate program options, consider their own strengths and challenges, and weigh the pros and cons to make an informed decision about their educational path.

Costs of an RN to BSN Without Prerequisites

The costs of an RN to BSN program without prerequisites can vary depending on several factors. Here are general factors that can influence the overall cost of such a program:

• Tuition Rates: The cost of tuition is a significant factor in the total expense of an RN to BSN program. Tuition rates can vary widely among schools and may be influenced by factors such as the school's location, public or private status, and reputation. Additionally, some online programs may have different tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students.
• Program Duration: The length of the program can impact the total cost. Accelerated programs that allow students to complete their BSN quickly may have higher tuition costs but can be more cost-effective in terms of time and lost wages compared to longer programs.
• Additional Fees: Many RN to BSN programs charge additional fees beyond tuition. These fees may include technology fees, laboratory fees (if applicable), clinical fees, and graduation fees. It's essential to review the fee structure of the specific program you are considering.
• Textbooks and Learning Materials: The cost of textbooks and learning materials can add to the overall expense of the program. Some programs may offer digital textbooks or resources as part of the tuition, while others may require students to purchase physical textbooks.
• Transportation and Clinical Costs: If the program includes clinical rotations, students may incur costs related to transportation to clinical sites, uniforms, medical equipment, and any required background checks or vaccinations.

Financial aid, scholarships, and grants may be available to help offset the cost of an RN to BSN program. Additionally, some employers offer tuition reimbursement or assistance programs to support their employees' educational pursuits.

Salary Expectations

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) indicates that the average yearly salary for RNs is approximately $89,010. While those in the bottom 10% bracket earn close to $61,250, top-tier RNs can command salaries up to $129,400.

Top Earning States for RNs:

• California: $133,340
• Hawaii: $113,220
• Oregon: $106,610
• Massachusetts: $104,150
• Alaska: $103,310

It's crucial to acknowledge that a nurse's income is influenced by multiple factors, including educational qualifications, regional considerations, the healthcare facility of employment, and accumulated professional experience, among other significant contributors.

Unfortunately, the BLS does not differentiate between RNs with ADN or BSN qualifications. According to ZipRecruiter's data, BSN-qualified RNs tend to earn higher salaries. The national average annual salary for ADN nurses is $80,320, with most earning between $63,500 and $72,500. In comparison, BSN RNs have a national average annual salary of $90,046, with the majority earning between $79,500 and $89,999.

BSN Program Accreditation

The benefits of enrolling in an accredited BSN program cannot be overstated for the following reasons:

• Adherence to High Educational Standards: Accreditation ensures that a BSN program meets or exceeds established national criteria, delivering a robust educational framework, qualified faculty, sufficient resources, and effective clinical experiences.
• Ongoing Evaluation and Improvement: Programs with accreditation are regularly reviewed for quality assurance, keeping pace with the ever-changing educational landscape.
• NCLEX-RN Exam Preparation: Accredited BSN-RN programs typically provide the comprehensive preparation necessary for graduates to successfully undertake the national licensure examination for registered nurses.
• State Licensure Eligibility: Earning a degree from an accredited BSN program is commonly a prerequisite for qualifying for state nursing licensure, demonstrating compliance with professional guidelines.
• Career Advancement: Employers often prefer candidates from accredited BSN programs due to their nursing education standards, which can lead to greater career opportunities and the flexibility to pursue specialized nursing positions.
• Academic Recognition and Credit Transferability: Academic credits from an accredited BSN program are generally recognized by other institutions, facilitating progress toward advanced degrees like an MSN or DNP.
• Reputation and Credibility: Achieving a degree from an accredited program enhances a graduate's reputation, indicating a level of education that aligns with stringent national standards for nursing and ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.

Accreditation from organizations such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) guarantees that BSN students receive an education that equips them to meet the professional challenges of nursing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the eligibility criteria for an RN to BSN without prerequisites program?

• To be eligible for an RN to BSN program without prerequisites, you generally need to be a licensed RN with either an ADN or a nursing diploma. Additional science or general education prerequisites are typically not required.

Q: How long does it take to complete an RN to BSN program without prerequisites?

• The program duration varies but often offers an accelerated path that can be completed in as little as 12-18 months. The number of credit hours and semesters required can influence the timeline.

Q: Can I pursue an online RN to BSN program without prerequisites while working as a nurse?

• Many RN to BSN online programs without prerequisites are designed for working nurses. They often offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate your work commitments.

Q: Are clinical hours a part of RN to BSN programs without prerequisites, and how do they work for working nurses?

• Clinical hours or experiences are typically included. These programs often have arrangements that allow working nurses to fulfill clinical requirements at healthcare facilities convenient to their location and schedule.

Q: Is the RN to BSN program from an accredited institution like CCNE?

• Many RN to BSN programs without prerequisites are offered by accredited institutions, such as those accredited by the CCNE or by the ACEN. Accreditation ensures that the program meets established quality standards in nursing education.