Cheapest RN-to-BSN Online Programs of 2024

RN-to-BSN programs are designed for registered nurses with an associate degree in nursing (ADN) who want to earn a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). Online RN-to-BSN programs are convenient for many working nurses because they provide flexible schedules. Another big advantage of RN-to-BSN online programs is that you can finish them quickly.

If you’re considering an online RN-to-BSN degree, explore this page to make sure this path is the right choice for you. Then, check out the top-ranked cheapest RN-to-BSN online programs and our sponsored programs.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

An RN-to-BSN program allows you to earn your nursing bachelor’s degree in as little as one year. RN-to-BSN online programs can be quicker than traditional nursing bachelor’s programs and build on your existing skills and knowledge. Earning a BSN can also enhance your resume and increase your job security.

You may qualify for roles with higher pay, including some leadership-level roles. According to April 2024 Payscale data, nurses with a BSN make an average of $17,000 more each year than nurses with only an ADN. With a bachelor’s degree, you can also pursue a master’s degree in nursing to advance your career further.

But don’t just take our word for it — nurses in the field agree.

Read More:Understanding the Types of Nursing Degrees

The total cost of an RN-to-BSN online program varies depending on factors like whether you attend a public or private school, your state residency status, and the types of fees that are required in your program. The cheapest RR-to-BSN online programs can also help you save on room and board, on-campus fees, and transportation costs.

However, regardless of your chosen nursing program’s cost, you don’t need to pay for it alone. For example, you can apply for nursing scholarships to help pay for your program.

You can pay for an RN-to-BSN program in many ways. Some options, like grants, provide free money you won’t need to pay back later. Others, such as student loans, provide financial assistance that must be paid back later — often with interest.

You should fill out the FAFSA each year to determine whether you qualify for federal aid. The FAFSA calculates your eligibility for aid based on factors like financial need and expected family contribution. You can receive help through federal loans, grants, and work-study programs.

Student loans let you pay for your education by borrowing money and paying it back later. You can apply for several types of federal loans, including subsidized and unsubsidized Stafford loans, PLUS loans, and direct consolidation loans. You can apply for private loans, too, but these often have much higher interest rates.

Grants provide you with free money for college. Qualifications differ for each type of grant. Some grants come from the government, but you can also receive grants from colleges or other sources.

You can qualify for the Federal Work-Study Program if you earn less than a certain income threshold. Work-study programs allow you to work on campus or in your community — often in roles related to your field of study. You can use the money you earn from these jobs however you see fit.

You can find several nursing scholarships offered by nonprofits, companies, and community organizations. Your college or university may offer scholarships specifically for nurses, too. Many scholarships are merit-based and depend on your past academic achievements.

With an RN-to-BSN degree, you can qualify for many new jobs thanks to your higher status. For example, you may be able to apply for certain leadership positions that feature higher average pay and better long-term earning potential.

Read More:Should I Go to Nursing School or Get an MBA in Healthcare?

For full-time students, an RN-to-BSN usually takes about two academic years to finish. You may find accelerated RN-to-BSN programs that allow you to graduate faster. Alternatively, part-time programs take longer but can provide you with more flexibility.

Pro tip: Working nurses often consider online RN-to-BSN programs. Earning a degree online allows you to complete your coursework from home. You don’t need to fit commutes to campus into your already demanding schedule.

*Varies depending on your school/program

For RNs who wish to work in a specialized area, earning certification in addition to a bachelor’s degree can lead to more opportunities. Although not all nurses need certification, extra credentials help demonstrate your expertise in certain areas, like pediatrics or acute care.

The American Nurses Association offers several certifications, but you can also find credentials from other professional associations. Certification requirements differ but often include meeting a certain experience threshold and passing an exam.

Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed February 3, 2023.