For ADN RNs in Virginia looking to advance their careers, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) through RN to BSN bridge programs provide valuable opportunities. These programs enable RNs to take on greater responsibilities and earn higher salaries.
In this guide, you'll find essential information on the best RN to BSN programs in Virginia, admission requirements, expected salaries after graduation, and tips for choosing the right program for you.
Learn More About Virginia's Top RN to BSN Programs
The Old Dominion State is known for its dynamic healthcare system, ranging from urban medical centers to rural healthcare facilities. Virginia's RN to BSN programs are designed to provide nurses with advanced skills in clinical care, leadership, and patient management, preparing them to thrive in various healthcare environments. These programs offer nurses the opportunity to expand their expertise and take the next step in their careers, both within Virginia and beyond.
For information on tuition, accreditation, and program formats, refer to the section above
1. University of Virginia
UVA's RN to BSN program is recognized as the top choice in the state, largely due to the strong community it fosters. With world-class faculty working closely with students to ensure their success, the program also offers a unique buddy system where more advanced students help guide newcomers. This hybrid program combines online courses with in-person classes once a month, and can be completed in just two years of part-time study.
Credit Hours: 30 core nursing credits. Including credit hours for previous associate nursing education and prerequisites, totaling 120 credit hours to graduate with a BSN.
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 86%
RN-BSN Admission Requirements:
Unencumbered RN license to practice in the U.S. by the start of the academic year.
Completion of 48 credits in general education courses.
Submission of current nursing license with application.
Prerequisite Courses which may include English Composition; Anatomy & Physiology, Microbiology; psychology; sociology; history; Philosophy; Art; Religion; Foreign languages; Electives (12+ credits)
Application Deadlines:
Early Decision Deadline: November 1
Regular Decision Deadline: January 5
Spring Transfer Deadline: October 1
Fall Transfer Deadline: March 1
Financial Aid: Ample scholarships and need-based financial aid are available, with 60% of the RN to BSN class of 2024 paying $0 in tuition.
2. James Madison University
JMU School of Nursing offers one of the top RN to BSN programs in the state, designed specifically for working nurses. This entirely online program provides personalized attention with small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and engaging content. It equips nurses with the latest nursing technologies and management practices, preparing them for future career growth. The program is flexible, allowing completion in one to two years, either full-time or part-time, and focuses on the care of underserved, rural, and culturally diverse populations in both acute care and community settings.
Credit Hours: 30 core nursing credit hours for the RN to BSN portion of the program, totaling 120 undergraduate hours after associate of nursing and prerequisite course credits are accounted for. Students must have worked a minimum of 540 total practice hours as a nurse by graduation date to gain 37 experiential learning credits.
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90%
RN-BSN Admission Requirements:
Associate Degree or Diploma in Nursing from an accredited institution.
Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale, with at least a 2.5 GPA in Nursing courses.
Current, unrestricted RN license in any U.S. state, Washington D.C., or U.S. territory.
Minimum of six months of RN employment or plans to practice concurrently with coursework.
Completion of all RN-BSN prerequisite course requirements.
TOEFL score of 81 or IELTS score of 6.5 for international applicants.
Graduates of foreign nursing schools must pass the CGFNS Qualifying Exam.
Application Deadlines:
Fall Admissions Cycle Deadline: July 15
Fall Admissions Cycle Deadline: November 15
Financial Aid: Several need-based scholarships are available for this course including:Whitehead Scholarship, Farrell Scholarship for RN to BSN students
3. George Mason University
The School of Nursing at George Mason University consistently ranks among the top public institutions in Virginia. It's mission is to empower students to make meaningful contributions to the health of their communities. The program is highly flexible, offering 100% online coursework in seven-week formats, with options for full-time or part-time enrollment. At full-time pace, students can complete the program in as little as one year, all while benefiting from GMU's nationally recognized faculty and diverse, hands-on learning experiences.
Credit Hours: 30 core nursing credit hours.
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 84% among all BSN programs
RN-BSN Admission Requirements:
Completion of all prerequisite courses
All prerequisite courses must have been completed with a "C" grade or higher.
An associate degree in nursing
Current American RN License
Application Deadlines: RN to BSN program admits in the fall term with a January 15th deadline.
Financial Aid: George Mason University's College of Public Health offers a range of scholarships to support students in their academic journey, providing both merit-based and need-based financial assistance
4. Radford University
Radford University's RN to BSN program combines essential nursing theory with real-world strategies, empowering students to improve patient outcomes, collaborate across the healthcare system, and foster a culture of safety and care. In addition to core nursing knowledge, students develop strong leadership and communication skills. The program is known for its extensive tutoring support, available at all times. With its flexible online format, the program can be completed in as few as 10 months.
Credit Hours: 30 core nursing credit hours.
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 98%.
RN-BSN Admission Requirements:
Associate degree or diploma in nursing or actively enrolled and complete with one year of ADN/ASN program
Active and unencumbered RN license
Application Deadlines: Rolling admissions with six start dates throughout the year, apply online anytime.
5. University of Virginia's College at Wise
UVA Wise's RN to BSN program is designed for working nurses, preparing them for future professional challenges and laying the foundation for potential graduate studies. The entire program is delivered online and can be completed in just two to four semesters, depending on completed prerequisite coursework.
Credit Hours: 30 core nursing credits.
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 85%.
RN-BSN Admission Requirements:
A diploma or an associate degree in nursing
Overall GPA of 2.2 or higher
Good standing with previous college or university
Application Deadlines: Application Deadline is August 1st. Check with the admissions advisor for any changes.
Financial Aid: UVA Wise provides a variety of financial aid options, including grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study opportunities, making education more accessible for students.
6. Old Dominion University
The RN to BSN program at ODU is designed to be dynamic and efficient, helping working nurses get the essential education they need in a timely manner. This program is available for concurrent enrollment for those also in AAS/ADN courses at ODU. This programcan be completed online at an asynchronous pace, with full support from faculty and student success directors.
Credit Hours: 33 credit hours are automatically awarded to licensed registered nurses and 66 total credits for the bachelor's portion of the program. Credits completed at ODU will be dependent on previous transwferable courses with a minimum of 30 credit hours to be compelted in this program
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 92%
RN-BSN Admission and Application Requirements: For detailed admission requirements and application deadlines, please contact ODU directly.
Financial Aid: Those who apply online are automatically reviewed for the ODU Global Healthcare Heroes Scholarship, and other awards such as the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation Scholarship.
7. Norfolk State University
NSU's RN to BSN program is designed to help make nurses into community leaders who can be highly competitive in the modern job market. This entirely online program is extremely flexible and is designed to be finished in 9 to 18 months.
Credit Hours: The RN to BSN program requires a minimum of 30 core nursing credits. To earn a bachelor's degree, students must complete 121 credit hours, including transferred credits from their ADN/ASN (36 credits) program and prerequisite coursework (52 credits).
RN-BSN Admission Requirements:
Current Virginia RN or Compact RN License
Completion of prerequisite courses with a minimum grade of "C"
A cumulative GPA of 2.5 in all prerequisite courses
Admission to the University before applying to the Department of Nursing
Application Deadlines: Information on application deadlines can be found by contacting admission advisors at NSU.
Financial Aid: Information on financial aid can be found by contacting admission advisors at NSU.
8. BON Secours Memorial College of Nursing
The RN to BSN program at BSMCN is designed with working nurses in mind, offering exceptional flexibility. Completely online with no mandatory class meetings, students can complete the program at their own pace, typically taking two courses per semester. Access to faculty and student advisors is available at any time, ensuring a supportive learning environment. Additionally, all graduates have the opportunity to interview for positions at BON Secours.
Credit Hours: 33
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 98%.
Graduate Employment Raste: 98%.
RN-BSN Admission Requirements:
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a diploma or associate degree
Valid unrestricted American RN license
Completed any general education requirements
A cumulative GPA of 2.0 for all general education requirement courses.
Application Deadlines:
Fall Term Start Application Deadline: June 1st
Spring Term Start Application Deadline: November 1st
Financial Aid: Tuition discounts are available for BON Secours Mercy Health employees.
9. Bluefield University
Bluefield University's online RN to BSN program is designed for working nurses looking to advance their careers in just 12-15 months. This flexible program combines online courses with local clinical experiences, emphasizing servant leadership and community-focused healthcare. With affordable tuition, faculty support, and opportunities for medical mission trips, it prepares nurses for advanced roles in areas like patient education, risk management, and community health.
Credit Hours: 36 core RN to BSN courses, 32 credits for ADN RN licensure, 45 credits for general education (completed previously or during the program), and 7 elective credits.
RN-BSN Admission Requirements: Admission Application Deadline: Rolling admissions, apply online at anytime and check the website for the closest start date.
Financial Aid: Bluefield University offers a wide range of financial aid options, including merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, and external scholarship opportunities. Over 90% of students receive financial assistance to help cover their education costs.
10. Longwood University
Longwood's RN to BSN program offers practical experience and professional growth for working nurses, featuring affordable tuition, small class sizes, and close faculty interaction. With seven-week courses, students can choose between a full-time option, completing two courses every seven weeks to finish in three semesters, or a part-time option, taking one course every seven weeks to finish in five semesters. This flexible structure allows students to balance their education with personal and professional commitments.
NCLEX-RN Exam Pass Rate: 98%
RN-BSN Admission Requirements:
Associate Degree or Diploma in nursing from a state-approved program
Minimum GPA of 2.5
Unencumbered RN licensee
At least six month's employment experience as an RN
Application Deadlines:
November 1st Deadline for Spring Admission
June 1st Deadline for Fall Admission
Financial Aid: Longwood University offers a range of financial aid options for nursing students, including merit-based and need-based scholarships, federal loans, and external opportunities. Notable scholarships include the Pugarelli Nursing Student Scholarship and McAnulty Scholarship for students with financial need or interest in specific nursing fields.
11. Hampton University
Hampton University's RN to BSN program offers a comprehensive approach to nursing education, combining theory with practical application. The program emphasizes leadership, health promotion, and cultural competency, preparing nurses to meet the evolving healthcare needs of diverse populations.
Credit Hours: The RN to BSN program at Hampton requires 33 core nursing credits, in addition to 32 advanced placement credits for RN licensure, and 55 credits of prerequisite coursework, totaling 120 credits for graduation.
RN to BSN Admission Requirements and application deadline information can be found on the program's website.
12. Virginia State University
Virginia State University's RN to BSN program provides a flexible, affordable pathway for working nurses to advance their education. This fully online program is asynchronous, allowing students to learn on their own schedule. The program includes eight-week courses and can typically be completed in five semesters.
Credit Hours: 30 core nursing credits and 90 credits from previous academic coursework, totaling 120 credit hours required for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree.
NCLEX RN Exam Pass Rate: 100%
RN-BSN Admission Requirements:
Associate's degree OR diploma in nursing
A cumulative GPA of 2.0 or better
Two letters of recommendation
If an applicant from a foreign country where English is not the native language, a TOEFL score may be required
Unencumbered RN license in Virginia
Current American Heart CPR card
Completion of all prerequisite courses with a "C" grade or higher.
FAQ and Additional Readings
How do I transfer my nursing license to Virginia?
Virginia is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing nurses to practice in other NLC states without additional steps. You do not have to transfer your license if moving from an NLC state.
If your nursing license is not from an NLC state, visit the VA Board of Nursing's (BON) website to review the steps for applying for licensure by endorsement.
Are there specialization programs for nurses in Virginia?
Many schools in Virginia offer advanced nursing degrees, allowing RNs to specialize in pediatric, geriatric, family nurse practitioner, acute care, and more.
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.