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by
allnurses (Editorial Team / Admin)
As the demand for highly educated nurses grows, obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a critical step for RNs aiming to advance their careers. Online RN to BSN programs, known for accessibility, offer flexible pathways to achieve educational and professional goals.
Explore what makes these programs easy to get into, program and admission requirements, costs, and salary potential after graduation. Whether you're an RN ready to boost your skills and earning power or simply curious about this pathway, this guide has you covered.
Best Easiest Online RN to BSN Programs to Get Into
The following programs have been selected based on allnurses' methodology of surveying our readers to understand what they value most, including graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, and acceptance rates of hundreds of the most prominent nursing schools in the United States.
1. University of Texas at El Paso
Acceptance Rate: 100%
The University of Texas at El Paso offers an online RN to BSN program designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their careers. The program emphasizes enhancing clinical reasoning and care delivery skills, preparing nurses for leadership roles in healthcare. The curriculum covers a range of topics, including community health, research, and management, with a focus on culturally competent care.
Program Highlights:
- Fully online format.
- Emphasis on culturally competent care.
- Covers community health, research, and management.
- Designed for working professionals.
2. Western Governors University
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Western Governors University's RN to BSN program is an online, competency-based education program tailored for working nurses. The program focuses on evidence-based practice, patient safety, and healthcare technology. WGU's unique model allows students to progress at their own pace, making it a flexible option for nurses balancing work and study.
Program Highlights:
- Competency-based education.
- Fully online and self-paced.
- Focus on evidence-based practice, patient safety, and technology.
- Suitable for working nurses.
3. Aspen University
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Aspen University's RN to BSN program is designed for registered nurses looking to advance their education and career opportunities. The program emphasizes enhancing nursing skills, leadership, and management capabilities in healthcare settings. Aspen University is known for offering flexible online learning options, which would be beneficial for working professionals. The curriculum includes courses in advanced nursing practice, healthcare policy, evidence-based practice, and community health.
Program Highlights:
- Flexible online learning format suitable for working nurses.
- Focus on advanced nursing practice and leadership.
- Courses include healthcare policy, evidence-based practice, and community health.
4. Cox College
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Cox College's RN to BSN program offers a flexible online learning environment for registered nurses. The program is designed to accommodate working professionals, offering courses in eight-week blocks, either part-time or full-time. It also provides an opportunity for students to start taking MSN courses as part of their bachelor's program.
Program Highlights:
- Flexible online format with eight-week course blocks.
- Option for part-time or full-time study.
- Bridge program to MSN courses.
- No admission deadlines.
5. Lewis-Clark State College
Acceptance Rate: 100%
The RN to BSN track at Lewis-Clark State College is an online program that allows nurses to complete their BSN in as few as 9 months. The program is designed for nurses who already have their RN license and focuses on expanding knowledge and skills beyond clinical aspects. It offers flexible scheduling and online coursework.
Program Highlights:
- Complete the BSN in as few as 9 months.
- Flexible scheduling and online coursework.
- Designed for RNs with an Associate degree.
- Two hands-on practicum courses are included.
6. Delta State University
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Delta State University's online RN to BSN program is offered through the Robert E. Smith School of Nursing. It is designed to prepare graduates for leadership positions and to pursue education beyond the baccalaureate level. The program is entirely online, with some clinical experiences in healthcare or community settings based on the student's geographical location. Students have the option to attend full-time or part-time, with the full-time program being completed in two semesters and the part-time program in four semesters.
Program Highlights:
- Online format with clinical experiences in the student's local area.
- A full-time program can be completed in two semesters; and part-time in four semesters.
- Focus on preparing RNs for leadership roles and further education.
- Flexible scheduling with full-time and part-time options.
- Applications are accepted year-round with fall term admissions.
7. University of Maine-Fort Kent
Acceptance Rate: 100%
The RN to BSN online program at the University of Maine-Fort Kent (UMFK) is tailored for working nurses, focusing on clinical reasoning and promoting a culture of healthcare safety. This 100% online program is designed for affordability, with no additional fees, and offers flexibility with 7-week online courses. The program can be completed in as few as 10 months and costs $309 per credit hour. It requires 30 credit hours of core nursing courses.
Program Highlights:
- Emphasizes clinical reasoning and evidence-based practice for quality outcomes.
- Learning outcomes include professionalism, leadership, patient-centered care, evidence-based practice, teamwork and collaboration, communication, systems-based practice, informatics and technology, safety, quality improvement, and geriatrics.
- Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
- Offers an affordable, pay-as-you-go tuition model.
- Six start dates each year, accommodating working nurses.
- Admission requires an RN license and a GPA of 2.5 or higher.
- The curriculum includes courses on holistic health assessment, transcultural care in nursing, health care policy, health-related research, and an integrated nursing practice practicum.
8. Milligan University
Acceptance Rate: 99%
Milligan University offers an online RN to BSN program, which is CCNE-accredited and designed specifically for working RNs. The program is delivered entirely online, allowing students to meet clinical course outcomes in their local community and work environment. The program can be completed in as few as 5 semesters, and it includes general education classes that are taken online alongside nursing courses. This structure provides a balanced approach to earning a degree while managing life's other responsibilities.
Program Highlights:
- 100% online course delivery.
- Can be completed in as few as 5 semesters.
- Clinical course outcomes can be met in the student's local community and work environment.
- The program is preferred by employers and is a stepping stone for graduate studies.
- Offers one of the most economical tuition rates in the region.
- Students are eligible for state and federal tuition assistance programs and employer reimbursement.
- The faculty consists of clinical experts with substantial real-world experience and a commitment to students' academic, personal, and spiritual growth.
- Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the Tennessee Board of Nursing.
- Offers a free Personalized Degree Plan to help prospective students understand their specific course requirements.
9. University of Providence
Acceptance Rate: 99%
The University of Providence offers an RN to BSN program online, designed for RNs with an ADN. The program is built on a conceptual framework that emphasizes Relationship-Based Care, Vigilance, Professional Accountability, and Change. This framework is designed to prepare nurses for the complexities and dynamics of modern healthcare environments.
Program Highlights:
- Focuses on Relationship-Based Care, where patient and family are central to the care delivery team.
- Emphasizes Nursing Vigilance, reflecting unwavering attention to patients and the care delivery environment.
- Highlights Professional Accountability, ensuring that nurses meet established standards and engage in continuous professional development.
- Addresses the constant and complex changes in healthcare, preparing nurses to lead and manage positive change.
- The program honors the patient and family as the center of the care delivery team, fostering collaborative and sacred relationships.
- Aims to protect patients from harm and ensure their safe passage through the continuum of care.
- Encourages nurses to be responsible for their self-care, professional development, and proactive career management.
10. Arkansas Tech University
Acceptance Rate: 98%
Arkansas Tech University's RN to BSN program offers a seamless transition for RNs from an associate degree or diploma in nursing to a baccalaureate degree. This 100% online program is designed for flexibility, offering three admission cycles each year and the option for full or part-time studies. The curriculum is contemporary and expands upon the knowledge of the registered nurse, with the ability to complete the program in one calendar year. The program includes two clinical courses: Professional Practicum Synthesis and Leadership and Management.
Program Highlights:
- 100% online, allowing for flexibility in scheduling.
- Three admission cycles per year.
- Full or part-time study options.
- Can be completed in one calendar year.
- Two clinical courses focusing on professional practice and leadership.
- Learning opportunities include the scope of professional practice for the BSN-prepared nurse, nursing research, leadership and management skills, nursing informatics, and population health.
- Students living in states bordering Arkansas receive in-state tuition.
- Financial aid available for qualifying students.
- Graduates are prepared for advanced roles in leadership and management, charge nurse positions, community-based environments, and various nursing specialties.
- Alumni work in prestigious institutions like Arkansas Children's Hospital, Arkansas Department of Health, Baptist Health, Mercy, and St. Vincent Health.
- The program stacks with higher degrees like BSN to PhD or DNP, and MSN programs for advanced practice certifications.
11. Eastern Kentucky University
Acceptance Rate: 98%
Eastern Kentucky University's RN to BSN online program is designed for working nurses. This CCNE-accredited program is 100% online, allowing students to learn from anywhere. The program requires 25 nursing credit hours and can be completed in as little as 12 months. EKU's curriculum blends academic and professional preparation, focusing on health promotion, disease prevention, quality, performance improvement, coordination of services, and population health.
Program Highlights:
- Accelerated path to graduate in 12 months.
- 25-28 credit hours required for the degree.
- Free textbooks through EKU BookSmart.
- No required campus visits or cohorts, and no testing centers to visit.
- Clinical projects can be completed in the student's current place of employment.
- Credit for general education requirements based on associate in nursing, NCLEX licensure, and professional experience.
- Convenient 8-week terms with personalized advising.
- The program includes courses like Perspectives in Professional Nursing, Research for EBNP, Leadership and Management, Complex Health Systems/Clinical, Professional Role Transition, and RN Public Health Nursing.
12. Shepherd University
Acceptance Rate: 98%
Shepherd University's RN to BSN program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of RNs. The program is delivered online, providing flexibility for working professionals. It focuses on advanced nursing concepts, leadership, and community health, preparing graduates for a range of healthcare settings.
Program Highlights:
- Online format for flexibility.
- Emphasis on advanced nursing practices and leadership.
- Focus on community health.
- Designed for working professionals.
13. Keiser University
Acceptance Rate: 97%
Keiser University's RN to BSN program is tailored for registered nurses seeking to advance their education and career. The program emphasizes critical thinking, leadership, and evidence-based practice. It's delivered online, offering flexibility for nurses to balance their studies with professional commitments.
Program Highlights:
- Online delivery for convenience.
- Focus on critical thinking and leadership skills.
- The curriculum includes evidence-based practice.
- Suitable for working nurses.
14. Southeastern Louisiana University
Acceptance Rate: 97%
Southeastern Louisiana University's RN to BSN program is designed for licensed RNs aiming to further their education. The program is 100% online, making it accessible for nurses with busy schedules. It offers individualized assistance and guidance throughout the program, with a dedicated faculty coach for each student.
Program Highlights:
- Entirely online format.
- Dedicated faculty coach for personalized support.
- Flexible start dates with multiple terms per year.
- Total cost of $9,500 for U.S. residents, covering tuition, books, and fees.
15. Auburn University at Montgomery
Acceptance Rate: 96%
The RN to BSN program at Auburn University at Montgomery is an online program designed for RNs looking to expand their career opportunities. The program focuses on enhancing nursing skills and knowledge, with flexible assignments to accommodate working schedules. It is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Program Highlights:
- 100% online program.
- Flexible coursework for working nurses.
- Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
- Focus on career advancement and leadership roles.
16. College of Coastal Georgia
Acceptance Rate: 96%
The RN to BSN program at the College of Coastal Georgia is an online program aimed at nurses with an associate degree wishing to earn their BSN. The program is designed to address the evolving needs of healthcare, focusing on disease processes, evidence-based practice, and leadership. It includes two in-person clinical rotations that can be completed at a location of the student's choice.
Program Highlights:
- Online coursework with two in-person clinical rotations.
- Affordable tuition at $106.80 per hour.
- Accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
- Option to complete the program in three or six semesters.
What Makes an Online RN to BSN Program Easy to Get Into?
An online RN to BSN program that is easy to get into and typically has certain characteristics that make it more accessible to a wider range of students. These features often include:
- Flexible Admission Requirements: Such programs may have more lenient admission criteria, possibly waiving requirements like high GPAs or standardized test scores.
- Accreditation: While maintaining quality education, these programs are often accredited, ensuring they meet certain educational standards.
- Online Format: The online nature of these programs offers flexibility in terms of time and location, making it easier for working nurses to enroll and complete their degrees.
- Transfer Credit Acceptance: Many of these programs accept transfer credits, which can make it easier for students who have already completed some college coursework.
- Support Services: They often provide robust student support services, including academic advising and tutoring, which can help students succeed even if they have been out of school for a while.
- High Acceptance Rates: Given the accessibility of easy-to-get-into online RN to BSN programs, they inherently have higher acceptance rates than alternative institutions.
Online RN to BSN Coursework & Clinical Requirements
The coursework in an RN to BSN program is designed to build upon the knowledge and skills that registered nurses already possess. It typically includes:
- Nursing Practice: Courses focus on enhancing clinical decision-making and patient care skills.
- Leadership and Management: These courses prepare nurses for leadership roles, covering topics like healthcare policy, ethics, and management practices.
- Community and Public Health: This area explores broader health concerns, including community health assessment and intervention strategies.
- Research and Evidence-Based Practice: Students learn about research methods and how to apply evidence-based practices in nursing.
- Health Informatics: Courses cover the use of information technology in healthcare, including data management and electronic health records.
Online RN to BSN Clinical Training
Clinical training in an RN to BSN program is designed to enhance practical skills and apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. Key aspects include:
- Hands-On Experience: Students engage in clinical practice in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and community health centers.
- Simulation Labs: Many programs use simulation labs to provide realistic, hands-on experiences in a controlled environment.
- Community Health Projects: Some programs include projects or practicums focusing on community health, allowing students to work on real-world health initiatives.
- Leadership Rotations: Clinical rotations may include leadership and management experiences, preparing nurses for supervisory roles.
- Capstone Projects: These are often a culmination of clinical training, where students integrate their learning in a comprehensive project or clinical experience.
While predominately not the case, some RN to BSN programs don't require clinicals.
Online RN to BSN Graduation Requirements
Graduation requirements are what students need to fulfill to complete the program successfully. These often include:
- Coursework: Completion of all required coursework, which typically includes advanced nursing concepts, leadership, community health, research, and possibly electives.
- Clinical Hours: Some programs require a certain number of clinical hours. These may be completed at the student's place of employment or at another approved location.
- Capstone Project or Thesis: Many programs include a capstone project or thesis as a graduation requirement, where students demonstrate their integrated knowledge.
- Minimum Grade Point Average: Students usually need to maintain a minimum GPA, often around 2.0 or higher, throughout the program to graduate.
- Professional Standards: Adherence to professional and ethical standards throughout the program is typically expected.
Online RN to BSN Admission Requirements
When considering an online RN to BSN program, it's important to understand admission requirements, including prerequisite courses, as well as application requirements. These elements ensure that students are prepared for the advanced level of study and can successfully complete the program. RN to BSN Admission Reuirements typically include:
- Nursing Diploma or ADN: Most programs require applicants to have completed either a nursing diploma or an ADN from an accredited institution.
- Current RN License: Applicants must possess an active and unencumbered Registered Nurse (RN) license in the state where they intend to complete any potential practicum or project requirements.
- Clinical Work Experience: Even if the BSN program doesn't have clinical requirements, some schools might expect applicants to have a certain amount of clinical experience as an RN.
- Transcripts: Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended, including the program where the applicant completed their initial nursing education.
- Minimum GPA: Many programs have a minimum GPA requirement for admission, often around 2.5 to 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, though this can vary by institution.
- Prerequisite Courses: Most RN to BSN programs require foundational courses like Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, English Composition, Statistics, and Human Growth and Development to ensure students are prepared for advanced nursing studies.
Additional RN-BSN Application Requirements:
- Letters of Recommendation: Some programs may ask for letters of recommendation from professional or academic references, attesting to the applicant's capability and suitability for the BSN program.
- Personal Statement or Essay: Applicants might need to submit a statement detailing their professional goals, reasons for pursuing a BSN, and why they're interested in the specific program.
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV): A document detailing the applicant's professional and academic achievements, including any nursing experience, certifications, or special training.
- Background Check: Given the nature of the nursing profession, many programs require a criminal background check to ensure the safety and well-being of patients.
- Drug Screening: Some schools might require a drug test, especially if there's a possibility of students interacting with patients, even in a non-clinical capacity.
- Proof of Immunizations: Depending on the program and the potential for patient interaction, students might need to provide proof of certain immunizations or health screenings.
- English Proficiency: For non-native English speakers, proof of English proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS might be required.
- Technical Requirements: For online RN to BSN programs, there might be technical requirements, such as a reliable computer, specific software, and a stable internet connection.
It's essential to understand that while the above provides a general overview, specific prerequisites and requirements can vary based on the institution and the program.
Online Easy-to-Get-Into RN to BSN Costs
Understanding the financial aspects of RN to BSN programs is crucial for prospective students. This includes both the costs involved in pursuing the program and the potential salary benefits upon completion. The cost of RN to BSN programs can vary significantly based on several factors:
- Tuition Fees: These fees differ widely between public and private institutions. Public colleges often offer lower tuition rates for in-state students, while private colleges may charge more. Online RN to BSN programs might reduce costs by eliminating the need for campus facilities, although their tuition rates can be comparable to traditional programs. Tuition is typically charged per credit or as a flat rate for the entire program.
- Additional Fees: Beyond tuition, students may incur various fees. Online courses often include technology fees to support digital platforms. Lab fees for practical components, along with expenses for textbooks, uniforms, and other materials, are also common.
- Financial Aid Options: Financial aid can significantly lower the cost burden. This includes federal aid through FAFSA, nursing-specific scholarships, and employer tuition assistance programs.
- Opportunity Costs: Engaging in higher education may lead to reduced work hours and income. The time dedicated to studying also represents an indirect cost, impacting potential earnings.
- Long-Term Financial Benefits: Despite upfront costs, obtaining a BSN can lead to increased lifetime earnings and opportunities for advanced roles in specialized nursing areas and leadership positions.
RN to BSN Financial Aid Considerations
Exploring financial aid options such as grants, loans, scholarships, and work-study programs is key to managing educational expenses. Planning ahead can ease financial stress, allowing students to focus on academic and professional growth. For more guidance, check out these helpful articles: Best Ways to Pay for Nursing School and Most Affordable RN to BSN Programs.
BSN RN Salary Expectations in 2025
Salary expectations in 2025 are based on geography, experience level, education, type of nursing specialties, and the types of industry that the nurse works in.
According to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the national mean annual wage for an RN is $94,480, with the lowest 10th percentile making $63,720 and the 90th percentile making $132,680 annually. The highest employment levels were nurses in general medicine and surgical hospitals, making an annual $96,830.
The highest salary states for RNs include:
- California: $137,690
- Hawaii: $119,710
- Oregon: $113,440
- Washington: $111,030
- Alaska: $109,210
Salary is also influenced by factors such as years of experience, nursing specialty, the healthcare system you work in, and your geographic location. Numerous hospitals and healthcare systems provide higher pay for RNs with a Bachelor's degree. While the BLS does not separate salary data for ADN RNs and BSN RNs, ZipRecruiter provides useful information on the salary variations between these two groups of 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
- District of Columbia: $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: $115,82300
- District of Columbia: $115,560.00
- New York: $111,879.00
- Massachusetts: $111,684.00
- Alaska: $110,132.00
Completing a BSN degree program can enhance both your salary and career prospects. These salary figures serve as general guidelines and will vary depending on location, years of experience, and nursing specialty.
BSN RN Job Projection
As of 2023, there are over three million registered nurse (RN) positions in the United States. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 6%, faster than average, job growth for RNs by 2033, which would add approximately 197,200 new nursing jobs. However, this projection may underestimate the actual demand due to factors such as the aging population and potential retirements among current nurses. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has prompted some nurses to leave the profession, further contributes to the ongoing nursing shortage. Overall, the demand for RNs is expected to remain strong in the coming years.
Easy-to-Get-Into RN to BSN Pros & Cons
Easy-to-get-into RN to BSN online programs offer several advantages and some potential drawbacks. Here are five pros and cons to consider:
Pros of Easy-to-Get-Into Online RN to BSN Programs
- Accessibility: These programs often have more lenient admission requirements, making higher education more accessible to a broader range of nurses, including those who may not have had stellar academic records in the past.
- Flexibility: Online formats allow for greater flexibility in terms of study schedules, which is particularly beneficial for working nurses who need to balance their professional and personal responsibilities.
- Diverse Student Body: With easier admission criteria, these programs often attract a diverse range of students from different backgrounds and experiences, enriching the learning environment.
- Opportunity for Advancement: Completing a BSN can open doors for career advancement, higher salaries, and more specialized nursing roles.
- Continued Professional Development: These programs encourage lifelong learning and professional development, which is essential in the ever-evolving field of healthcare.
Cons of Easy-to-Get-Into Online RN to BSN Programs
- Quality Concerns: Some may perceive that programs with easier admission standards might compromise on educational quality, although this is not necessarily true, especially if the program is properly accredited.
- Self-Discipline Required: Online learning requires a high degree of self-discipline and motivation. Without the structure of traditional classroom settings, some students may struggle to keep up with coursework.
- Limited Hands-On Experience: While online programs offer clinical training, the hands-on experience might be less comprehensive compared to traditional on-campus programs.
- Technology Dependence: Students must have reliable access to technology and the internet. Those who are not comfortable with digital learning platforms may face challenges.
- Networking Limitations: Online programs may offer fewer opportunities for in-person networking with peers and faculty, which can be a significant part of professional growth in nursing.
Why RN to BSN Program Accreditation Matters
Selecting an accredited RN to BSN program is of paramount importance for several compelling reasons:
- Ensures Educational Excellence: Accredited nursing programs consistently uphold excellence in curriculum, faculty qualifications, student resources, and clinical training through regular evaluations.
- Licensing Requirements: Graduation from an accredited program is typically a prerequisite for state licensure, which is essential for practicing as a BSN-prepared nurse.
- Elevated Career Opportunities: Employers prefer graduates from accredited programs due to the assurance of a high-quality education aligned with national standards. Accredited programs create pathways to broader career prospects in nursing.
- Seamless Credit Transfer: Credits earned within an accredited RN to BSN program are more likely to be accepted by other accredited nursing institutions. This facilitates a smooth transition for transfer students or further education, whether pursuing a higher degree like an MSN or DNP
- Professional Credibility: Completing an accredited RN to BSN program enhances professional credibility by demonstrating education and training aligned with national standards for advancing nursing practice.
- Access to Financial Aid: Having accreditation is often required to be eligible for federal financial aid, such as grants and loans. This is especially important for students pursuing a BSN degree who need financial assistance for their education.
Given these considerations, it is imperative for aspiring RN to BSN students to verify that their chosen programs hold accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
RN to BSN Programs Near Me
Discover the best RN to BSN programs in the following states:
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