10 Fastest Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Programs in 2024

Prospective students consider many things when seeking a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). To some, the most important consideration is cost. To others, it may be the program's quality, graduation rates, or how quickly it can be completed.

For those most concerned with accelerated education and kickstarting their careers, we've compiled a list of the 10 fastest BSN programs available in 2024.

What Is a BSN?

To become a registered nurse (RN), you must complete an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), a two-year program for nurses, or a BSN, a four-year bachelor's degree program. There are four methods for obtaining this degree: a Traditional BSN, an Accelerated BSN, an RN to BSN program, or a non-nursing degree to BSN program.

A traditional BSN program lasts four years. In some schools, the application process begins out of high school, encompassing pre-nursing and the actual BSN program coursework. In other schools, the program requires prerequisite coursework before applying to the nursing school, followed by the BSN coursework. Students complete clinical experiences in which they learn patient care concomitantly with the didactic coursework. Many of these programs provide on-campus learning.

An Accelerated BSN program is precisely that, a fast-track BSN program. Some schools of nursing call it a second-degree BSN. They contain the same classes as the traditional BSN program but in a much shorter period. Instead of offering courses by the semester, the program provides them in shortened five to ten-week spans. Students must also complete hands-on clinical hours for completion. Ideal students are individuals with non-nursing bachelor's degrees or those who've completed the prerequisites to enroll.

An RN to BSN program is for practicing RNs who have completed an ADN degree, gained licensure as an RN, and are returning to school to earn their BSN. The nursing students in these programs complete their didactic portion and sometimes clinical hours and typically work full-time jobs. They can complete the program at their own pace in as few as eight months.

A non-nursing to BSN program is designed for individuals with non-nursing degrees who aim to become registered nurses (RNs). These programs streamline the learning process by concentrating on essential nursing courses, enabling students to skip repeating introductory courses from their previous degrees.

BSN Prerequisites and Requirements

This article will focus on Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) and RN to BSN programs as they are shorter than traditional BSN programs but require previous education and experience.

For ABSN students, programs require roughly 60 hours of prerequisite courses or a non-nursing degree with specific science classes completed. 

Sciences required for admission into BSN Programs:

• Human Anatomy and Physiology I
• Human Anatomy and Physiology II
• General Chemistry I
• General Chemistry II
• Microbiology (with lab) 

It is crucial to note that admission prerequisites can vary between programs. Prospective students should research the program of interest to determine its specific requirements.

Other BSN program admission requirements:

• A GPA of 2.75 or higher
• Current immunizations
• Official transcripts of completed coursework
• A completed background check
• A resume with references
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification
• The Health Education Systems Inc. (HESI) or Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS), which are standardized tests for nursing schools, but are not required for admission to all nursing schools. 

RN to BSN programs require an active RN license and completion of an ADN program. They also require a minimum GPA for the ADN program, official transcripts, and typically the HESI or TEAS. Additionally, some require a personal statement and interview. 

A non-nursing degree to BSN usually involves completing specific science prerequisites for admission, a minimum GPA from previous college education, and the submission of official transcripts.

Entering an accelerated BSN program may entail more than academic qualifications. Additional prerequisites could encompass volunteer experience, health insurance, a physical exam, and drug screening. 

Classes offered in BSN programs: 

• Adult Health: Med/Surg, Critical Care 
• Intro to Nursing
• Health Assessment
• Pathophysiology
• Mental Health Nursing
• Pharmacology
• Informatics 
• Community Health
• OB
• Pediatrics
• Evidence-Based Practice 
• Leadership 

10 Fastest BSN Programs in 2024

The following universities have been selected based on allnurses' methodology of surveying our readers to understand what they value most while selecting schools, with the addition of NCLEX pass rates, graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, and admission rates of hundreds of the most renowned nursing schools in the United States.

1. University of Cincinnati - Main Campus 

The University of Cincinnati's main campus, located in Cincinnati, Ohio, has one of the fastest BSN programs. Prospective nursing students can earn their RN to BSN degree in 9, 12, or 18 months. You can opt from a full-time to part-time status if preferred.

• Price: $16,065 (part-time); $20,376 (full-time)
• Offered as a Hybrid degree program
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)  

2. National University College 

National University College in California offers a hybrid RN to BSN program that prospective nurses can complete in 22 months. They also offer masters degree programs, such as Master of Health Administration (MHA), Doctor of Health Administration (DHA), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and post-graduate APRN certificate programs.

• Price: $370 per quarter unit
• Offered as a Hybrid degree program
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education  

3. Thomas Jefferson University

Thomas Jefferson University, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is home to a twelve month, entirely online Accelerated BSN program. They also offer a Midwifery program after successful completion of a BSN program.

• Price: $44,400 (full-time); $1,396 per credit (part-time)
• Offered as a fully Online Program
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

4. Capella University

Capella University is located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and offers online programs. Nurses can complete their RN to BSN program in as quickly as nine months. Their FlexPath program lets you set your own deadlines, instead of the traditional exams and fixed deadlines. You can also pay per 12-week instead of paying per credit, so the faster you are, the more you get to save.

5. University of North Carolina at Wilmington

The University of North Carolina in Wilmington, North Carolina, offers an online 12-month RN to BSN program. Admission is continuous, meaning there are six start dates throughout the year.

• Price: $6,299.10 (residents) and $25,884 (out-of-state)
• Offered as a fully Online Program
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

6. Maryville University of Saint Louis 

Maryville University of Saint Louis, located in Saint Louis, Missouri, offers a fully online 12-month RN to BSN program and does not require campus visits. Students can complete clinical rotations based on location. They also offer other master degree programs for those looking to advance their careers.

• Price: $24,766
• Offered as a Hybrid Program
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

7. Galen College of Nursing - Louisville

Galen College of Nursing, located in Louisville, Kentucky, offers a 12-month hybrid RN to BSN program. They enroll students from across the United States. 

• Price: $42,420
• Offered as an Online Program
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education 

8. Keiser University - Fort Lauderdale

Keiser University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, offers an Accelerated BSN program that nurses can complete in as quickly as 16 months. The minimum GPA required is 3.0, and the program requires the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS). 

• Price: $9,112 (full-time per semester)
• Offered as a Hybrid Program
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

9. The University of Texas at Arlington 

Healthcare professionals recognize The University of Texas at Arlington for its online RN to BSN program. This 9-month program offers 5 to 10-week courses. 

• Price: Campus-Based Program $5,985 (fall semester); $5,985 (Spring semester)
• Offers an accelerated online program ($257 per credit hour)
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education 

10. Aspen University

Aspen University, located in Phoenix, Arizona, offers an online RN to BSN program that nurses can complete in as quickly as 12 months while taking eight-week courses.

• Price: $9,750
• Offered as a fully Online Program
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

Accelerated BSN Program Costs 

The cost of accelerated BSN programs varies depending on several factors. It is important to consider the following elements when assessing the financial aspects of a BSN RN program:

• Tuition: Varies by institution type and residency status, with private institutions and non-residents often incurring higher costs.
• Books and Supplies: Costs can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars for textbooks, medical supplies, and other materials like school uniform scrubs. 
• Technology: Additional charges may apply for technology, software, or online resources, especially in online or hybrid programs.
• Lab: Specific courses may require lab fees to cover materials or equipment usage.
• Miscellaneous Fees: Include application and graduation fees, costs to travel to and to clinicals, as well as other administrative expenses, which can add up significantly.
• Living Expenses: Relevant for individuals not working during the program or relocating for their BSN RN pursuit.

BSN Salary Expectations in 2024

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median pay for nurses was $89,010 per year or $42.80 per hour. This salary varies based on geographical location, as the cost of living depends on where you live. 

The top 5 highest paying states for RNs

1. California: $ 133,340
2. Hawaii: $ 113,220
3. Oregon: $ 106,610
4. Massachusetts: $ 104,150
5. Alaska: $ 103,310

There are many different career options for BSN-prepared nurses, and the salary ranges will depend on the chosen field. Some other areas to look into include public health nursing, school nursing, insurance, pharmaceutical, and medical supply companies. 

The top paying industry for RNs are as follows:

1. Wholesale trade agents and brokers ($112,480)
2. Pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing ($110,270)
3. Nonscheduled air transportation ($109,160)

Majority of RNs work in these industry sectors:

1. General and medical surgical hospitals (1,724,510) with a mean annual wage of $90,600 
2. Offices of physicians (208,7600 with an average annual wage of $79,810
3. Home health care services(173,640) with a mean annual wage of $82,920

Importance of Choosing an Accredited BSN RN Program

The importance of accreditation cannot be overstated for various compelling reasons. Let's delve into the key aspects:

• National Nursing Education Standards: Accredited programs maintain the national standards in curriculum, faculty qualifications, resources, and clinical training, subject to regular evaluations.
• Prerequisite for Licensing: Graduating from an accredited program is often a mandatory requirement for state licensure in many states, a crucial step for practicing as a registered nurse.
• Career Opportunities: Many employers prioritize graduates from accredited programs, ensuring a top-tier education aligned with national standards. This not only expands career options but also provides flexibility for roles like travel nursing or relocation to states mandating nursing school accreditation.
• Credit Transfer: Credits earned in an accredited ADN or BSN RN program are more likely to be accepted by other nursing institutions, facilitating seamless transitions for transfer students or those pursuing advanced nursing degrees like an MSN or DNP.
• Professional Recognition: Completion of an accredited nursing program boosts professional credibility, showcasing education and training in alignment with national standards for nursing practice.

Contrary to the belief that accelerated programs compromise educational quality, accredited programs endorsed by organizations such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) adhere to national standards for nursing education. This ensures that students receive a robust and comprehensive learning experience.

FAQ and Additional Readings

Q: Is getting a BSN degree worth it? 

A: Obtaining a BSN degree is worth it. However, it is possible to gain employment with an ADN. Employers may offer incentives to go back for a BSN with tuition reimbursement. It isn't easy, but it is worth it.

Q: Is it possible to work while in school for my BSN? 

A: Working while enrolled in an Accelerated BSN program is not advisable due to the demanding nature of these programs, requiring significant time and personal commitment. It is recommended to focus solely on the program, with ample opportunities for employment after completion. However, while challenging, some individuals do manage to work during their Accelerated BSN programs. It's important to note that certain programs may have restrictions on working during the program, and this should be considered when exploring Accelerated BSN options.

Q: Is nursing a good field to go into? 

Nursing may not be for everyone, but there is a place in nursing for everyone. Bedside nursing fields include ER, ICU, med/surg, specialty, OB, Pediatrics, Mental Health nursing, Pediatric ICU, OB critical care, NICU, burns, and more.

In the community, there are nursing positions such as school nurse, clinic nursing, and home health. Nurses work in research, life flight, fixed-wing air transport, or cruise ships. Big corporations and industrial plants also hire nurses. 

Q: Can I enroll in an accelerated BSN program without having an RN background?

Certainly, entering an Accelerated BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program without an RN (Registered Nurse) background is possible. While specifics may vary among programs, some nursing programs do provide a pathway for individuals with a non-nursing college education.

These specialized programs typically streamline the curriculum, allowing you to concentrate on nursing courses without the need to retake introductory courses that you likely covered during your initial non-nursing degree. This tailored approach acknowledges your prior educational achievements and focuses on equipping you with the essential nursing knowledge and skills necessary for a successful transition into the field.

Q: Do BSN RNs make more than ADN RNs?

The salary gap between ADN and BSN RNs is influenced by factors such as regional location and the type of facility chosen for employment. According to ZipRecruiter, the national average annual salary for ADN nurses is $80,320, with most earning between $63,500 and $72,500 annually. In contrast, BSN RNs earn approximately $10,000 more per year, with an average of $90,046, and the majority falling within the range of $79,500 to $89,999 annually.