Best Online RN to BSN Programs in Minnesota | 2025

As an ADN-prepared RN, you've already built a strong foundation in nursing—but earning a BSN can open doors to higher salaries, leadership roles, and expanded job opportunities. With over 70% of hospitals and healthcare facilities now requiring or preferring BSN prepared nurses, advancing your education can help you stay competitive and increase long-term career stability.

If you're considering an RN to BSN program in Minnesota, we've ranked the top programs to help you find the best fit for your schedule, budget, and career goals. Whether you're looking for higher pay, job security, or more flexibility in your nursing career, a BSN can help you get there.

Best Online RN to BSN Programs in Minnesota

Learn More About Minnesota's Top Online RN to BSN Programs

For those exploring the best RN to BSN programs in the North Star State, this section showcases what makes these schools stand out. With flexible program formats, dedicated faculty support, and a commitment to educational excellence, these programs lead the way in advancing nursing careers.

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1. College of Saint Scholastica

The College of St. Scholastica has been delivering well-rounded, Benedictine values-based education to nurses for nearly 100 years. Their comprehensive Online RN to BSN program upholds this tradition, combining core nursing competencies with a robust liberal arts education led by world-class faculty. Fully online, the program offers ample opportunities for collaboration with instructors and peers and can be completed in as little as one year.

• BSN Credit Hours: 29

RN-BSN Admission Requirements: 

• Unrestricted RN license in at least one state
• Eligibility for RN licensure in Minnesota
• Associate's degree with a major in nursing from an accredited college
• Cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 or higher.  

13 credit hours earned for unrestricted RN License. 

Application Deadlines: 

• Summer Term Deadline: May 2nd
• Mid-Term Summer Deadline: June 20th
• Fall Term Deadline: August 15th
• Mid-Term Fall Deadline: October 10th
• Spring Deadline: December 15th
• Mid-Term Spring Deadline: February 21st 

2. Winona State University

If you're a nurse dedicated to serving vulnerable populations, WSU's Online RN to BSN equips you with the skills for leadership and management roles. The curriculum emphasizes teamwork, communication, quality control, and methods to better serve underserved communities. This flexible online program features asynchronous classes and can be completed in 1 to 4 years. With 60 hours of practicum experiences supported regionally or closer to home, students also have opportunities to study abroad, including initiatives like health promotion in Peru.

• RN-BSN Credit Hours: 40
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 91%
• Graduate Employment Rate: 96% of nursing graduates

RN-BSN Admission Requirements: 

• ADN/ASN/AAS Degree 
• Minimum GPA of 2.5
• RN license earned within the first semester

Application Deadlines: Winona offers Fall and Spring semester start dates.

Financial Aid: Winona State University offers extensive financial aid opportunities for nursing students, with over $75,000 in scholarships available annually through the WSU Foundation. Students can access a wide range of scholarships, including need-based and merit-based awards, with a streamlined application process via the River Hawk Scholarship Portal.

3. Capella University

Capella's RN to BSN program is tailored for working nurses, featuring the flexible FlexPath system, which allows completion in under 9 months at an affordable cost. The program provides a comprehensive education in patient care technology, information management, and nursing practice, among other key areas. Fully online, it offers multiple course arrangement options, with FlexPath being the most popular for its accelerated pace. For those seeking more structure, the GuidedPath option provides assigned deadlines and a more traditional online learning experience.

Curriculum: Capella's RN-BSN  program features 180 total quarter credits, including a maximum of 135 transfer credits, and 8 core BSN courses. 

RN-BSN Admission Requirements: 

• Nursing degree or associate's degree in nursing from an accredited institution
• Minimum GPA of 2.0 or higher
• Unrestricted American RN license

Application Deadlines: Apply online anytime with rolling admissions and flexible start dates, allowing you to begin when you're ready.

Financial Aid: Capella offers financial aid opportunities to help make its RN to BSN program even more accessible, including scholarships, federal and private loans, and employer tuition reimbursement options. These resources ensure working nurses can pursue their education without significant financial burden.

4. Rasmussen University

Rasmussen University's RN to BSN Online program offers flexibility and comprehensive training for working nurses. The fully online program emphasizes leadership, evidence-based practice, nursing theory, and emerging healthcare technologies. Aligned with Baccalaureate Essentials and QSEN Competencies, it equips students with advanced skills for career advancement and can be completed in just 12 to 18 months. With asynchronous courses and the ability to transfer up to 75% of credits, it's designed to fit seamlessly into your busy schedule.

Curriculum: This program includes 18 courses totaling 70 credit hours of RN to BSN coursework.

• BSN Credit Hours: 70
• NCLEX RN-Pass Rate: 97%

RN-BSN Admission Requirements: For more admission details prospective students are encouraged to reach out to an admission counselor. 

• An unencumbered RN license

Application Deadlines: With rolling admissions and rolling start dates, you can apply online anytime you're ready to begin.

Financial Aid: The "Get Started Grant" reduces initial tuition costs, while the flexible course load allows students to save by bypassing certain courses. Undergraduate alumni of Rasmussen are also eligible for tuition discounts.

5. Walden University

Walden University's online RN to BSN program combines a rigorous curriculum with flexible learning options, allowing students to balance school, work, and personal responsibilities while completing the program in as little as 14 months. Featuring the Practicum Pledge®, it ensures timely practicum placement and offers both synchronous and asynchronous formats.

Students can transfer up to 75% of credits from ADN/ASN coursework, benefit from personalized study plans, and learn from doctoral-trained faculty.

• BSN Credit Hours: 51 quarter credits

RN-BSN Admission Requirements: 

• Associate degree or diploma in nursing
• Valid RN License
• Submissiion of official transcriptions 

Alternative Admission Requirements for Early Conditional Option for BSN: This option is available to associate nursing students, contingent upon successful completion of their associate program and obtaining their RN license.

Application Deadlines:  Apply online at anytime with rolling admissions. 

Financial Aid: Scholarship opportunities, including the "BELIEVE & ACHIEVE SCHOLARSHIP®," may be available upon request, along with additional options to reduce tuition, such as experience-based credits.

6. Metropolitan State University

The RN to BSN program offers a holistic, flexible approach for working adult students, focusing on key areas such as equity, holism, anti-racist action, and evidence-based practice. Endorsed by the American Holistic Nursing Credentialing Corporation, graduates can waive the required post-graduate practice and continuing education hours for the holistic nursing certification exam. The program includes 31 credits of nursing coursework, with part-time progression and online courses. Graduates are eligible for public health nursing registration in Minnesota.

• BSN Credit Hours: 31
• NCLEX RN-Pass Rate: 74%
• Institution Graduation Rate: 75% 

RN-BSN Admission Requirements: 

• Valid RN License
• Associate degree or diploma in nursing
• Submissiion of official transcriptions 
• Cumulative GPA of 2.5 

What Is an Online RN to BSN Program?

A BSN degree is a baccalaureate focusing on expanding the foundations of nursing care offered in an ADN program.

As an ADN-prepared nurse, you'll earn a two-year degree and complete nursing fundamentals coursework. As a BSN-prepared nurse, you'll earn a four-year degree; your classes will be more in-depth and cover additional subjects, such as leadership, research, and informatics. Some classes include nursing leadership, research, advanced pathophysiology, and informatics. 

As a BSN-prepared RN, you'll provide patient care duties and implement and evaluate nursing interventions to promote health and best care practices. You can work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, outpatient physician offices, and long-term care and community health facilities.

Related: 50 Best RN to BSN Programs in 2025

Online RN to BSN Curriculum

RN to BSN programs expand an RN's knowledge and skills through advanced online coursework, including:

• Advanced Nursing Practice: Deepens understanding of patient care, healthcare policies, and advanced nursing techniques.
• Community Health Nursing: Focuses on public health, health promotion, and disease prevention in community settings.
• Leadership and Management in Nursing: Develops essential management and leadership skills tailored to the healthcare environment.
• Health Assessment: Teaches advanced patient assessment techniques, enhancing diagnostic and clinical skills.
• Pathophysiology: Explores the physiological effects of diseases on the human body.
• Pharmacology: Covers medication effects, interactions, dosages, and safe administration practices.
• Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice: Emphasizes the importance of research and the application of evidence-based practices in nursing.
• Ethics in Nursing: Examines ethical dilemmas and legal considerations within healthcare settings.

Online RN to BSN Clinical Training

RN to BSN online programs differ from ADN clinical training, focusing on leadership, public health, and system-wide care rather than hands-on bedside skills. While not all RN to BSN programs require clinicals, those that do often include:

• Community Health Experiences: Work with public health departments, schools, or home health agencies to address population health and disease prevention.
• Leadership Practicum: Shadow nurse leaders, participate in quality improvement projects, or manage healthcare initiatives.
• Capstone Projects: Apply knowledge to real-world challenges, such as developing patient education programs or improving care processes.
• Simulation & Case Studies: Use online simulations and case-based learning to enhance clinical decision-making and problem-solving.

Many RN to BSN online programs with no clinical requirements replace traditional clinicals with coursework, projects, and case-based learning, recognizing that licensed RNs already have bedside experience.

Can RN to BSN Programs Be Taken Entirely Online?

RN to BSN programs can be taken entirely online. These programs are designed for working RNs who have already completed an ADN or nursing diploma program and obtained licensure, meaning they've gained significant hands-on experience in their initial programs and through work. However, it's important to note that some online RN to BSN programs may have in-person requirements such as exams or capstone projects, so students should check the specific requirements of a program to ensure it fits their needs.

Why Earn Your BSN?

Earning a BSN provides numerous benefits beyond higher employment rates and pay. BSN-prepared nurses are shown to improve patient outcomes and healthcare system revenue, leading many organizations to require or encourage this qualification. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), "the Bachelor of Science degree in nursing is the minimum educational requirement for professional nursing practice."

Studies have found that hospitals with a higher percentage of BSN-prepared nurses experience lower rates of heart failure, pressure ulcers, failure to rescue, medication and procedural errors, as well as a 24.6% decrease in inpatient deaths and an 8% reduction in hospital stay length, averaging around five days.

Hospitals seeking AACN Magnet recognition for nursing excellence often require nurse managers and senior staff to hold a BSN, reflecting their dedication to quality care, professional development, and improved patient outcomes. Therefore, advancing your education with a BSN enhances your career prospects while aligning you with the highest standards of the nursing profession.

RN to BSN Admission Requirements in Minnesota

When applying to an RN to BSN program, students must meet both general university and nursing program admission requirements. While specific admission criteria vary by school, most Minnesota RN to BSN programs will require:

• Completion of an ADN, ASN, or AAS program through an accredited institution.
• Passed your NCLEX-RN exam and have an unrestricted NJ RN license
• Basic Life Support (BLS) or CPR certification
• Proof of transcripts from all prior schools
• Proof of clinical and practicum hours
• Background check and drug screen
• Up-to-date on immunizations and a current physical examination
• Minimum grade point average (GPA) of B (3.0) in previous coursework

RN to BSN programs often require general education and core science prerequisite courses to build a strong foundation for advancing and enhancing nursing practice. Common prerequisites usually include:

• Psychology
• Sociology
• General Chemistry with lab
• Microbiology with lab
• Anatomy and Physiology with lab
• College Algebra
• Statistics
• Human Nutrition
• Speech or Interpersonal Communication

Always check the specific admission requirements for each RN to BSN program to ensure you meet all criteria, as they can vary by program.

Minnesota RN to BSN Program Costs

The costs of RN to BSN programs can vary based on numerous factors, including:

• Tuition Fees: The cost per credit hour varies by institution, factors affecting this variation include: 
  • State schools are generally cheaper than private or out-of-state.
  • Public universities often charge lower rates for residents. 
  • Online programs can reduce costs, though clinical hours may still be required.
• Standard Fees: Application, technology, and graduation fees.
• Textbooks and Supplies: Costs for textbooks, uniforms, and other necessary nursing supplies can add up.
• Lab and Clinical Fees: For programs with hands-on or practical components, lab fees may be applicable.
• Transportation and Accommodation: If any on-campus attendance is required, consider the cost of transportation and potential accommodation.
• Background Check and Drug Screening: Most programs require a background check and drug screening, which can incur additional costs.
• Immunizations and Health Insurance: Up-to-date immunizations and health insurance may be required, especially for clinical training.
• Licensing Exam Fees: Post-graduation, there are fees associated with taking the NCLEX-RN licensing exam.
• Living Expenses: Significant for those not working while studying or relocating.
• Opportunity Costs: Financial impact of reduced work hours while in school.
• Long-term ROI: Consider networking opportunities, educational quality, and job placement.
• Personal Circumstances: Factors like childcare or the need to maintain employment may affect choice.

These factors collectively contribute to the total investment required for a BSN RN program, making thorough financial planning essential for prospective students. To lower the overall cost of nursing school, explore the Best Ways to Pay for Nursing School and consider choosing one of the Most Affordable RN to BSN Programs.

BSN RN Salary Expectations in Minnesota 2025 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2023 data, RNs in Minnesota earned:

• Mean Hourly Wage: $45.59
• Mean Annual Wage: $94,830.00

RN salary in Minnesota is roughly the same as the national estimates for 2023, as the BLS reports RNs across the U.S. earning:

• Mean Hourly Wage: $45.42
• Mean Annual Wage: $94,480.00

The top five paying states for registered nurses are as follows:

• California: $137,690.00
• Hawaii: $119,710.00
• Massachusetts: $113,440.00
• Oregon: $111,030.00
• Alaska: $109,210.00

The BLS collected wage data from 66,700 registered nurses in Minnesota, placing the state in the 50th to 75th percentile for RN employment. The states with the highest employment levels of RNs and their average annual earnings for 2023 were:

• California (332,560) $137,690.00
• Texas (251,840) $90,210.00
• FLorida (207,910) $84,760.00
• New York (188,060) $106,620.00
• Pennsylvania (144,100) $87,530.00

Other factors influencing salary include years of experience, nursing specialty, the healthcare system, and your location. Many hospitals and healthcare systems offer higher salaries for RNs with a Bachelor's degree. Although the BLS does not distinguish between ADN RN and BSN RN salaries, ZipRecruiter offers valuable insights into the pay differences for ADN and BSN registered nurses.

Average ADN RN Salary

• Hourly Wage: $39.00
• Annual Wage: $80,321.00

U.S states with the highest ADN RN salaries are:

• Washington: $90,972.00
• Washington, D.C.: $90,765.00
• New York: $87,874.00
• Massachusetts: $87,721.00
• Alaska: $86,502.00

Average BSN RN Salary

• Hourly Wage: $49.00
• Annual Wage: $102,263.00

U.S states with the highest BSN RN salaries are: 

• Washington: $115,823.00
• Washington D.C.: $115,560.00
• New York: $111,879.00
• Massachusetts: $111,684.00
• Alaska: $110,132.00

According to ZipRecruiter, BSN prepared RNs in Minnesota earn an average of $90,898 annually, with the top-paying cities in the state as follows: 

• Rochester, MN: $96,609.00
• Harris, MN: $96,523.00
• Madison Lake, MN: $93,375.00
• Minneapolis, MN: $93,252.00
• Maple Grove, MN : $93,129.00

RN to BSN Salary by State

Compare several specializations by state with our comprehensive nursing salary guide, or learn more about nursing salaries in Minnesota.

Are RN to BSN Programs in Minnesota Worth It?

Deciding whether an RN to BSN program in Minnesota is worth it requires considering their various advantages and disadvantages.

Pros of RN to BSN Programs in Minnesota

1. Career Advancement: Completing a BSN can open doors to more advanced nursing positions, which may not be accessible to those with only an RN qualification.
2. Higher Salary Potential: BSN-prepared nurses often have the potential to earn higher salaries compared to their RN counterparts.
3. Educational Foundation for Further Studies: A BSN is a stepping stone for nurses who wish to pursue higher education, such as a Master's or Doctorate in Nursing.
4. Increased Competitiveness: In a state like Minnesota, which has a high concentration of healthcare facilities, a BSN can make a nurse more competitive in the job market.
5. Broader Scope of Practice: BSN programs typically offer more in-depth training in areas such as research, leadership, and public health, which can broaden a nurse's scope of practice.

Cons of RN to BSN Programs in Minnesota

1. Cost and Time Investment: Pursuing a BSN requires a significant investment of time and money, which can be challenging for working nurses.
2. Balancing Work and Study: For RNs who are working, balancing job responsibilities with coursework can be stressful.
3. Variable Return on Investment: The financial benefits of a BSN may vary depending on the healthcare facility and location within Minnesota.
4. Potential for Burnout: The added pressure of studying on top of work responsibilities can lead to burnout.
5. Technology Requirements for Online Programs: Online BSN programs require a certain level of technological proficiency and access, which might be a barrier for some.

While RN to BSN programs in Minnesota present both opportunities and challenges, they are generally considered a worthwhile investment for career advancement in nursing. The decision to pursue a BSN should be based on individual career goals, financial considerations, and personal circumstances.

Tips to Choose the Best RN to BSN Program

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:

1. Cost
2. High NCLEX Pass Rate
3. Location
4. Academic Reputation
5. Availability of Financial Aid and Scholarships
6. Length of Time to Obtain Degree
7. Flexibility of Schedule
8. Curriculum
9. Campus and Surroundings
10. Nursing Clinicals Location
11. Availability of Online Courses

Ultimately, prospective students should assess their needs and pick schools that are the best fit for them.

RN to BSN Program Accreditation

Another critical consideration is accreditation. Though its importance may not be immediately apparent, accreditation is crucial, especially for RN to BSN programs. Here's why you should choose an accredited RN to BSN program:

• Guaranteed Standards for Nursing Education
• Ensures Compliance with State Regulations
• Guarantees Minimum Clinical Hour Requirement
• Supports RN Licensure Eligibility
• Facilitates Credit Transfers
• Enhances Professional Credibility
• Improves Employment Prospects
• Enables Access to Financial Aid
• Promotes Long-Term Career Success

Accrediting bodies include the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

Top RN to BSN Programs Near Me

Discover the best RN to BSN programs in the following states:

FAQ and Additional Readings

How much does an RN to BSN program cost?

The cost of an RN to BSN program varies by school and state. Tuition typically ranges from $7,000 to $25,000, with online programs often being more affordable than in-person options. Many schools offer financial aid, employer tuition reimbursement, and scholarships to help offset costs.

For example, the top-ranked RN to BSN programs in Alabama offer tuition rates between $11,120 at Winona University and $24,150 at Walden University, with The College of Saint Scholastica ranked #1 at $17,220. Be sure to compare program costs and available financial aid when choosing a school.

Do employers accept online RN to BSN degrees?

Yes, as long as the program is accredited (CCNE or ACEN). Employers focus on the BSN credential itself, not whether it was earned online or in person.

Is it better to have an ADN or a BSN?

Whether an ADN or a BSN is better largely depends on personal goals. If you plan to stay in a clinical role at the bedside and do not wish to advance beyond a licensed RN, an associate degree is sufficient.

However, a BSN opens up more opportunities for career advancement. It emphasizes research, leadership, evidence-based practice, and improving patient safety, while an ADN focuses mainly on nursing foundations and clinical skills.

Moreover, many healthcare institutions now require BSN-prepared RNs to meet accreditation standards and Joint Commission requirements and to achieve AACN Magnet status.

How do I transfer my nursing license to Minnesota?

Minnesota is not part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), meaning nurses licensed in Minnesota cannot practice in other NLC states without obtaining additional licensure.

If you are moving to Minnesota from another state, you will need to apply for licensure by endorsement, through the Minnesota Board of Nursing (BON).

Are there specialization programs for nurses in Minnesota?

BSN-level nurses are typically trained as generalists and may specialize after graduation. If you are interested in a particular specialty, consider additional courses and undergraduate nursing certifications to prepare for your desired field.

However, many graduate-level, RN-MSN, programs in Minnesota offer advanced degrees that allow RNs to specialize in areas such as pediatrics, geriatrics, family nurse practitioner, acute care, and more.

Are there LPN to BSN bridge programs?

Yes,  LPN to BSN programs allow practical nurses to earn a BSN and become RNs. Unlike RN to BSN programs, they don't require an RN license but take longer to complete.

Edited Mar 9 by Erin Lee