Recommendations for Online RN to BSN Programs

NotMyProblem MSN, ASN, BSN, MSN, LPN, RN · Aug 1, 2020

On 7/28/2020 at 12:47 AM, coopman712 said:
I'm looking for some input on online RN to BSN programs you may have experience with. I am currently looking to go back for my BSN but need to do it online. I have looked into Chamberlain, Capella, WGU, Aspen and am still searching. There just seem to be so many choices and variations and I want to pick the option best for me.
It may seem like I am asking a lot but here are some of my necessary criteria is:
Affordability-I am looking for a very affordable route.
Manageability- a program I can handle realistically while working but also finish in a reasonable amount of time. ( I know that is a lot to ask!)
Accreditation-
Traditional Grading- In order to apply for any tuition reimbursement I would need to earn letter grades.
Thank you for any advice or suggestions of schools to look into!

See the screenshot. I’m beginning my third class at Capella and it coincides with my third week in their MSN program. They do offer RN-BSN, but I have no experience in the program since I received my BSN 6 years ago. This may or may not be what you’re looking for, but it’s working quite nicely for me.

NotMyProblem MSN, ASN, BSN, MSN, LPN, RN · Aug 1, 2020

Forgot to add that I work 5 days per week, and being on vacation that first week of class helped me to get that first course out of the way and amplify my motivation as a result.

coopman712 · Aug 1, 2020

Thank you for the response! So it sounds like you have been able to do one class per week? That's incredible. Yes basically I am trying to figure out how I will manage best. Their prepay option doesn't seem all that great if you move too slow and that is what I'm afraid of.

And as for tuition reimbursement, I was wondering if their "translation" would be clear enough for my employer so thanks for sharing.

I have narrowed it down to Capella, Chamberlain and William Patterson at this point. I am waiting to see what credits of mine they will accept from my previous bachelor's degree. Hoping to only have to complete core nursing courses.

Thank you again and best of luck

DJSexton, RN · Aug 2, 2020

Hi Coopman,

I attend Chamberlain and I am very satisfied with my curriculum. They have a solid reputation within the industry, and afford advancement opportunities in graduate degrees. I ride the military discount for my service time which helps, and I have attended Capella for my undergrad in Business and it was good also. I have heard positive remarks about WGU and their ability to be affordable and fast-tracked courses for those that are really proactive. In the end, do your homework, like you are here in this thread, and choose what fits you best. The real benefit is the time and energy you put into learning. Good luck!

coopman712 · Aug 2, 2020

Thank you for your input! Right now I have it between Chamberlain, Capella and William Patterson University. I think it is basically going to come down to who gives me the most credit for my previous education. ? Just waiting to hear...

The Minority Nurse Report, ADN, CNA, RN · Nov 8, 2020

I was in UNC Wilmington RN to BSN program, but I had to drop because it was the too fast pace for an RN working full-time.