Best RN to BSN Programs in Georgia | 2025

Georgia has more than 15 accredited Online RN to BSN Programs currently accepting new applicants for the 2024-2025 school year. Several of these programs are some of the best programs in the country. Here we'll break down our picks for the best of the best.

Best RN to BSN Programs Georgia
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The demand for registered nurses (RNs) in the United States is growing, with job opportunities expected to increase by 6% by 2032. BSN-prepared nurses enjoy higher salaries and better job prospects, with 41% of hospitals and healthcare facilities now requiring a BSN. Consequently, many ADN-prepared nurses are returning to school to earn their BSN.

For those seeking to advance your nursing education in Georgia, we've ranked the top RN to BSN programs to help you advance your nursing career.

Best RN to BSN Programs in Georgia

The selection of the following nursing schools relies on a comprehensive methodology that includes direct input from our readers, extensive data analysis, and continuous updates to ensure accuracy and relevance. Our team of Data Analysts dedicates over 100 hours weekly to refine our database, incorporating critical criteria like reader surveys, graduation rates, cost of attendance, mode of delivery, admission rates, and more elements valued by our community.

*Tuitions are subject to change based on a student's number of transfer credits, yearly increases, and more. Our rankings are based on the latest college data from the U.S. Department of Education complemented by additional insights from our analysts.

  1. #1 Columbus State University

    Columbus, Georgia

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    Columbus State University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, Masters, NP, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Larger Programs
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 5,637 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 1,476 Graduate Students Enrolled
    • 88% Acceptance Rate
    • 43% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 23 Average Age
    • 42% Men
    • 58% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 60% White
    • 4% Hispanic
    • 35% Black
    • 2% Asian

    RN BSN Programs

    • $5,628 In-State Undergraduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

    • Specialty
      Format
      Tuition
      Score
    • RN to BSN
      Online Program
      $5,628 In-State Tuition
      4.4 Program Score

  2. #2 Georgia College & State University

    Milledgeville, Georgia

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    Georgia College & State University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, MSN, DNP, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • 231 W Hancock Street, Milledgeville, Georgia 31061, US
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Larger Programs
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 5,185 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 1,050 Graduate Students Enrolled
    • 64% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 20 Average Age
    • 35% Men
    • 65% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 72% White
    • 4% Hispanic
    • 23% Black
    • 2% Asian

    RN BSN Programs

    • $13,087 In-State Undergraduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

    • Specialty
      Format
      Tuition
      Score
    • RN to BSN
      Online Program
      $13,087 In-State Tuition
      4.4 Program Score

  3. #3 Georgia Southwestern State University

    Americus, Georgia

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    Georgia Southwestern State University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of , on-campus, and online programs—including ADN/ASN, BSN, MSN, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • 800 GSW State University Dr., Americus, Georgia 31709, US
    • 1-877-871-4594
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Medium Programs
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 2,092 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 597 Graduate Students Enrolled
    • 44% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 24 Average Age
    • 35% Men
    • 65% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 57% White
    • 3% Hispanic
    • 39% Black
    • 1% Asian

    RN BSN Programs

    • $4,872 In-State Undergraduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

    • Specialty
      Format
      Tuition
      Score
    • RN to BSN
      Online Program
      $4,872 In-State Tuition
      4.4 Program Score

  4. #4 Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College

    Tifton , Georgia

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of on-campus programs—including ADN/ASN, and BSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • Baccalaureate/Associate's Colleges: Mixed Baccalaureate/Associate's
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 3,160 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 30% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 41% Men
    • 59% Women
    • 68% White
    • 5% Hispanic
    • 27% Black
    • 1% Asian

    RN BSN Programs

    • $3,270 In-State Undergraduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

    • Specialty
      Format
      Tuition
      Score
    • RN to BSN
      On-Campus Program
      $3,270 In-State Tuition
      4.3 Program Score

  5. #5 Clayton State University

    Morrow, Georgia

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    Clayton State University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, NP, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • 2000 Clayton State Boulevard, Morrow, Georgia 30260, US
    • 1-678-466-4000
    • 0% Acceptance Rate
    • 43% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    RN BSN Programs

    • $5,220 In-State Undergraduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

    • Specialty
      Format
      Tuition
      Score
    • RN to BSN
      Online Program
      $5,220 In-State Tuition
      4.4 Program Score

  6. #6 Mercer University

    Macon, Georgia

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    Mercer University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNP, NP, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • 1501 Mercer University Drive, Macon, Georgia 31207, US
    • 1-800-MERCER-U
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 4,568 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 4,030 Graduate Students Enrolled
    • 61% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 25 Average Age
    • 36% Men
    • 64% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 68% White
    • 5% Hispanic
    • 27% Black
    • 2% Asian

    RN BSN Programs

    • $11,552 In-State Undergraduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

    • Specialty
      Format
      Tuition
      Score
    • RN to BSN
      Online Program
      $11,552 In-State Tuition
      4.4 Program Score

  7. #7 Georgia Highlands College

    Rome, Georgia

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    Georgia Highlands College is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of , on-campus, and online programs—including ADN/ASN, and RN to BSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • Baccalaureate/Associate's Colleges: Mixed Baccalaureate/Associate's
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 4,419 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 22% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 22 Average Age
    • 36% Men
    • 64% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 84% White
    • 5% Hispanic
    • 11% Black
    • 1% Asian

    RN BSN Programs

    • $3,030 In-State Undergraduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

    • Specialty
      Format
      Tuition
      Score
    • RN to BSN
      Online Program
      $3,030 In-State Tuition
      4.3 Program Score

  8. #8 Georgia State University

    Atlanta, Georgia

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    Georgia State University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including ADN/ASN, BSN, MSN, DNP, PhD, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 28,439 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 7,592 Graduate Students Enrolled
    • 57% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 23 Average Age
    • 40% Men
    • 60% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 60% White
    • 6% Hispanic
    • 32% Black
    • 3% Asian

    RN BSN Programs

    • $9,180 In-State Undergraduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

    • Specialty
      Format
      Tuition
      Score
    • RN to BSN
      Online Program
      $9,180 In-State Tuition
      4.3 Program Score

  9. #9 South Georgia State College

    Douglas, Georgia

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    South Georgia State College is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of , on-campus, and online programs—including ADN/ASN, LPN to BSN, and RN to BSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • Baccalaureate/Associate's Colleges: Mixed Baccalaureate/Associate's
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 1,570 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 18% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 33% Men
    • 67% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 68% White
    • 5% Hispanic
    • 27% Black
    • 1% Asian

    RN BSN Programs

    • $3,030 In-State Undergraduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

    • Specialty
      Format
      Tuition
      Score
    • RN to BSN
      Online Program
      $3,030 In-State Tuition
      4.3 Program Score

  10. #10 College of Coastal Georgia

    Brunswick, Georgia

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    College of Coastal Georgia is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of on-campus, and online programs—including ADN/ASN, BSN, and RN to BSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • Baccalaureate Colleges: Diverse Fields
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 2,812 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 31% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 22 Average Age
    • 30% Men
    • 70% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 69% White
    • 3% Hispanic
    • 27% Black
    • 1% Asian

    RN BSN Programs

    • $3,180 In-State Undergraduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

    • Specialty
      Format
      Tuition
      Score
    • RN to BSN
      Online Program
      $3,180 In-State Tuition
      4.3 Program Score

  11. #11 Dalton State College

    Dalton, Georgia

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    Dalton State College is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of on-campus, and online programs—including LPN/LVN, ADN/ASN, and BSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • Baccalaureate Colleges: Diverse Fields
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 4,260 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 33% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 38% Men
    • 62% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 88% White
    • 11% Hispanic
    • 3% Black
    • 1% Asian

    RN BSN Programs

    • $10,329 In-State Undergraduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

    • Specialty
      Format
      Tuition
      Score
    • RN to BSN
      Online Program
      $10,329 In-State Tuition
      4.3 Program Score

  12. #12 Middle Georgia State University

    Macon, Georgia

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    Middle Georgia State University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of , hybrid, and online programs—including ADN/ASN, BSN, MSN, NP, Post Grad Certificate, Post Grad Certificate, and RN to BSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Medium Programs
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 6,589 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 429 Graduate Students Enrolled
    • 28% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 22 Average Age
    • 45% Men
    • 55% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 64% White
    • 3% Hispanic
    • 33% Black
    • 1% Asian

    RN BSN Programs

    • $5,220 In-State Undergraduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

    • Specialty
      Format
      Tuition
      Score
    • RN to BSN
      Online Program
      $5,220 In-State Tuition
      4.3 Program Score

  13. #13 Thomas University

    Thomasville, Georgia

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    Thomas University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of , and online programs—including RN to BSN, MSN, and RN to MSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Medium Programs
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 726 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 738 Graduate Students Enrolled
    • 44% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 27 Average Age
    • 48% Men
    • 52% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 61% White
    • 3% Hispanic
    • 36% Black
    • 1% Asian

    RN BSN Programs

    • $17,100 In-State Undergraduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

    • Specialty
      Format
      Tuition
      Score
    • RN to BSN
      Online Program
      $17,100 In-State Tuition
      4.2 Program Score

  14. #14 Georgia Southern University

    Statesboro, Georgia

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    Georgia Southern University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, DNP, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • 1332 Southern Drive, Statesboro, Georgia 30460, US
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 20,996 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 3,502 Graduate Students Enrolled
    • 53% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 20 Average Age
    • 43% Men
    • 57% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 69% White
    • 4% Hispanic
    • 26% Black
    • 2% Asian

    RN BSN Programs

    • $5,236 In-State Undergraduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

    • Specialty
      Format
      Tuition
      Score
    • RN to BSN
      Online Program
      $5,236 In-State Tuition
      4.4 Program Score

  15. #15 Albany State University

    Albany, Georgia

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    Albany State University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, and online programs—including ADN/ASN, BSN, MSN, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Medium Programs
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 5,645 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 522 Graduate Students Enrolled
    • 29% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 23 Average Age
    • 26% Men
    • 74% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 43% White
    • 4% Hispanic
    • 52% Black
    • 1% Asian

    RN BSN Programs

    • $6,567 In-State Undergraduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

    • Specialty
      Format
      Tuition
      Score
    • RN to BSN
      Online Program
      $6,567 In-State Tuition
      4.2 Program Score

  16. #16 South University, Savannah

    Savannah, Georgia

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    South University, Savannah is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of on-campus, and online programs—including DNP, MA, MSN, NP, Post Grad Certificate, Post Grad Certificate, and RN to BSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Larger Programs
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 195 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 527 Graduate Students Enrolled
    • 26% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 30 Average Age
    • 25% Men
    • 75% Women
    • 2% Veterans
    • 65% White
    • 7% Hispanic
    • 29% Black
    • 2% Asian

    RN BSN Programs

    • $14,700 In-State Undergraduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

    • Specialty
      Format
      Tuition
      Score
    • RN to BSN
      Online Program
      $14,700 In-State Tuition
      4.2 Program Score

  17. #17 LaGrange College

    LaGrange, Georgia

    allnurses College Ranking: C+
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    LaGrange College is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of , hybrid, and online programs—including BSN, and RN to BSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • Baccalaureate Colleges: Diverse Fields
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 597 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 72 Graduate Students Enrolled
    • 47% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 57% Men
    • 43% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 70% White
    • 3% Hispanic
    • 25% Black
    • 1% Asian

    RN BSN Programs

    • $40,650 In-State Undergraduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

    • Specialty
      Format
      Tuition
      Score
    • RN to BSN
      Online Program
      $40,650 In-State Tuition
      3.7 Program Score
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What Is an RN to BSN Program?

An RN-to-BSN program involves an RN returning to school to obtain a BSN degree. This program involves experienced RNs and new graduates with a diploma or an associate degree in nursing (ADN). A BSN degree program provides a more comprehensive education in social and physical sciences, nursing management, research, informatics, and public health. It enhances knowledge and understanding of community health, healthcare management, leadership, and policy for a broader scope of practice.

Nurses with a BSN have diverse career opportunities and can work in a wider range of settings compared to ADN-prepared nurses. While both can work in hospitals and nursing homes, BSN-prepared nurses often qualify for roles in educational services, leadership roles, government agencies, schools, community centers, hospices, dialysis centers, and telephonic and virtual care settings.

Related: 10 Best RN to BSN Programs in 2025

RN to BSN Curriculum

Typical RN to BSN Coursework includes:

  • Advanced Nursing Practice: Expanding on basic nursing skills with a focus on complex clinical scenarios.
  • Leadership and Management: Training in leadership skills, healthcare management, and administrative roles.
  • Health Assessment: Advanced techniques in patient assessment and diagnosis.
  • Pathophysiology: In-depth study of disease processes and their impact on the body.
  • Evidence-Based Practice: Focus on research methods and applying research findings to clinical practice.
  • Community and Public Health: Understanding the role of nursing in community health and public health initiatives.
  • Healthcare Policy: Study of healthcare systems, policies, and their impact on patient care.
  • Informatics: Training in healthcare technology, data management, and information systems.
  • Ethics in Nursing: Exploring ethical dilemmas and decision-making in healthcare.
  • Capstone Project: A final project that often involves research or a practical application of learned skills in a real-world setting.

RN to BSN Clinical Training 

  • Advanced Clinical Skills: Enhancing specialized patient care techniques.
  • Patient Assessment and Care Planning: Comprehensive patient assessments and care plan development.
  • Community Health Nursing: Practical experience in public health and community-based care.
  • Leadership in Clinical Settings: Developing leadership and supervisory skills by managing patient care teams.
  • Specialized Nursing Practices: Exposure to pediatrics, geriatrics, emergency care, and other specialties.
  • Evidence-Based Practice Implementation: Applying research to improve patient outcomes.
  • Healthcare Technology: Hands-on experience with advanced medical technology and informatics.
  • Interprofessional Collaboration: Working with a diverse healthcare team, including doctors and therapists.
  • Clinical Ethics and Decision-Making: Practicing ethical decision-making in real-world scenarios.

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.

Georgia RN to BSN Admission Requirements

When applying to an RN to BSN program, students must meet the school and the nursing program's admission requirements. RN to BSN admission requirements and prerequisite classes will vary by institution, but typical Georga RN to BSN  program requirements include the following criteria:

  • Completion of an ADN, ASN, or AAS program through an accredited institution.
  • Passed your NCLEX-RN exam and have an unrestricted Georgia 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
  • Many programs require a minimum grade point average (GPA) of B (3.0) in previous coursework

Prerequisite courses may 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.

Georgia 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 includes: 
    • 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 theBest Ways to Pay for Nursing School and consider choosing one of the Most Affordable RN to BSN Programs.

RN Salary Expectations in Georgia

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

  • Mean Hourly Wage: $43.27
  • Mean Annual Wage: $90,000.00

RN salary in Georgia is approximately 4-5% lower than 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

As of 2023, there were approximately 93,730 registered nurses, placing the state in the top 25% 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: $99,301.00
  • New York: $88,028.00
  • Vermont: $86,437.00
  • California: $84,528.00
  • Maine: $82,150.00

Average BSN RN Salary

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

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

  • Washington: $126,428.00
  • New York: $112,075.00
  • Vermont: $110,049.00
  • California: $107,620.00
  • Maine: $104,591.00 

According to ZipRecruiter, BSN RNs in Georgia earn an average of $83,407.00 annually, and the top-paying cities in the state were: 

  • Lumpki, GA: $91,271.00
  • Macon, GA: $90,678.00
  • Lumber City, GA: $88,333.00
  • Sandy Springs, GA: $88,159.00
  • Atlanta, GA: $86,826.00

Are RN to BSN Programs in Georgia Worth It?

RN to BSN programs in Georgia offer significant advantages, particularly in terms of career advancement and salary potential. However, they also require a substantial investment of time and money, and the benefits can vary depending on individual circumstances and specific locations within the state.

RN to BSN Pros in Georgia

  1. Higher Salary Potential: BSN-prepared nurses in Georgia often have higher earning potential compared to their ADN counterparts, reflecting the advanced level of education and qualifications.
  2. Increased Job Opportunities: Many healthcare facilities in Georgia, especially larger hospitals and clinics, prefer or require nurses with a BSN, offering more job opportunities for BSN-prepared nurses.
  3. Advancement in Career: A BSN is often necessary for leadership roles, specialized nursing positions, or administrative roles. In Georgia's diverse healthcare landscape, this degree can open doors to various career advancement opportunities.
  4. Educational Foundation for Advanced Degrees: For nurses in Georgia aiming to pursue further education, such as Nurse Practitioner or Nurse Anesthetist programs, a BSN is typically a prerequisite.
  5. Meeting Industry Standards: With a nationwide push towards a more educated nursing workforce, having a BSN aligns with the evolving standards of the nursing profession. This is particularly relevant in Georgia's dynamic healthcare sector.

RN to BSN Cons in Georgia

  1. Cost and Financial Investment: The cost of pursuing a BSN in Georgia can be substantial, including tuition, books, and other fees, which might be a financial strain for some nurses.
  2. Time Commitment: Balancing work, life, and education can be challenging, especially for working nurses who might have to juggle job responsibilities with academic commitments.
  3. Variable ROI Based on Location: The return on investment for a BSN degree can vary across different regions in Georgia, with urban areas typically offering higher salary benefits than rural areas.
  4. Online vs. Traditional Learning: While online RN to BSN programs offer flexibility, they may not suit everyone's learning style. Some nurses in Georgia may prefer traditional, in-person learning environments.
  5. Experience vs. Education: In some nursing roles and facilities within Georgia, extensive nursing experience can be as valued as higher education, which might limit the perceived immediate benefit of a BSN for seasoned RNs.

Ultimately, deciding whether an RN to BSN program in Georgia is worth it for you will depend on personal circumstances and career goals.

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:

  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 best fit them. 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:

  • Meets Nursing Education Standards
  • 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).

RN to BSN Programs Near Me

Discover RN to BSN programs in the following states:

FAQ and Additional Readings

Q: Is a BSN degree worth it?

Many RNs enjoy helping and caring for others. They choose to become BSN-prepared to expand their nursing knowledge and open the door for opportunities in leadership or other areas of nursing. Often, RNs return to earn their BSN and think it's worth it, especially if they want to increase their earning potential.

Q: Is a BSN higher than an RN?
An RN is a license that you receive from the state board of nursing to practice nursing. An RN can have an associate, bachelor, or master's degree. A BSN is a four-year degree that prepares you for practice as an RN but has more advanced courses than an ADN degree.

Q: Why choose an RN to BSN program?
Many healthcare systems encourage nurses to earn their BSN degrees with the potential to increase their earning potential. Many online and self-paced programs make earning your degree much more manageable while working.

Edited by Erin Lee

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Erin Lee

About Erin Lee, BSN, RN

Editorial Team / Admin

Erin Lee has 12 years experience as a BSN, RN and specializes in Critical Care, Procedural, Care Coordination, LNC.

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