Top 10 Online RN to BSN Programs for 2026
Are you an RN with an Associate Degree in Nursing considering getting your Bachelor of Science in Nursing? If so, then an RN-to-BSN online program may be the perfect fit!
An RN-to-BSN program lets registered nurses with an associate degree earn their BSN faster than they would in a traditional program, because it builds on the skills and knowledge that they've already obtained.
If you’re ready to make the leap, we’ve done the hard work of vetting the top programs for you. Keep reading to discover the best online RN-BSN programs for 2026.
Popular Online RN-to-BSN Programs
Chamberlain University is the #1 largest school of nursing with a community of more than 177,000 students, faculty, and alumni. The school offers BSN programs online and has a long history of successfully delivering top quality education. Save up to 30%* on tuition with the RN-to-BSN Tuition Advantage Grant (*see Chamberlain website for details).
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide except CT, NY, RI
When you earn an ASU nursing degree, you are gaining skills from a respected and accredited institution. Our online nursing degrees are accredited by the Arizona State Board of Nursing and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
GCU’s RN-BSN program is tailored to meet the needs of the RN adult learner and to maximize the strengths that the working RN already possesses. Transfer up to 90 credits and earn a BSN in as little as 12 months. GCU’s online classes allow you to study at the times that work for your schedule while still enjoying a close connection with your classmates and instructor via online discussions.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
Walden’s online programs for nursing meet rigorous standards for academic quality and integrity, and 100% of our College of Nursing didactic faculty are doctorally trained. With multiple degree completion options, you can choose a bachelor’s in nursing path that makes sense for your busy, unpredictable schedule.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide, excluding CT, ND, NY and RI. Certain programs have additional state restrictions. Check with Walden for details.
The University of Texas at Arlington’s online programs are designed to help you achieve more in your nursing practice with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. They offer convenient, flexible options for completing your RN to BSN online, designed to fit into your busy schedule.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
Nurse.org's Top RN to BSN Online Programs for 2026
Our ranking criteria is based on factors such as tuition, acceptance rate, student-to-faculty ratio, and accreditation and uses the latest and most robust U.S. government data sets, specifically the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and College Scorecard.
| Program | Accreditation | Total Credit Hours | Nurse.org Total Tuition Estimate** |
| The University of Oklahoma | CCNE | 30 |
Resident: $6,558 Non-Resident: $18,322.50 |
| University of Central Florida | CCNE | 30 |
Resident: $5,375.50 Non-Resident: $23,083.50 |
| Capella University | CCNE | 45 | $14,120 - $22,250 |
| Arizona State University | CCNE | 36 | $19,944 |
| Herzing University | CCNE | 26 | $11,700 |
| University of Cincinnati | CCNE | 27 |
Resident: $21,978
Non-Resident: $22,518 |
| Chamberlain University | CCNE | 45 | $28,575 |
| University of Phoenix | CCNE | 40 | $14,000 |
| Western Governors University | CCNE | 24 | $5,525-$44,200 |
| George Washington University | CCNE | 21 | $15,670 |
**Total program tuition is calculated by multiplying the program's cost per credit by the total number of credits needed for the course, as reported by the university website. Because of this, total program amounts are approximate and may not be exact.
1. The University of Oklahoma
This online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is flexible for working nurses but does require two Saturday in-person orientation dates per year, and also has optional monthly on-campus sessions. Students can complete the program in as little as nine months, but it can be completed on a part-time basis.
- Application Deadline:
- Spring: October 15th
- Fall: February 2nd
- Contact Information:
- Phone Number: (405) 271-2428
- Email Address: nursing@ouhsc.edu
- Website
2. University of Central Florida
This online RN to BSN program in Florida consists of 30 credit hours which can be completed in three semesters at a full-time pace or as slowly as ten semesters or five years. Students can also take up to nine credit hours of graduate-level work to apply toward an MSN degree.
- Application Deadline
- Fall: May 1st
- Spring: November 1st
- Summer: March 1st
- Contact Information:
- Phone Number: (855) 903-8576
- Email Address: ucfnurse@ucf.edu
- Website
Popular Online RN-to-BSN Programs
Chamberlain University is the #1 largest school of nursing with a community of more than 177,000 students, faculty, and alumni. The school offers BSN programs online and has a long history of successfully delivering top quality education. Save up to 30%* on tuition with the RN-to-BSN Tuition Advantage Grant (*see Chamberlain website for details).
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide except CT, NY, RI
When you earn an ASU nursing degree, you are gaining skills from a respected and accredited institution. Our online nursing degrees are accredited by the Arizona State Board of Nursing and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
GCU’s RN-BSN program is tailored to meet the needs of the RN adult learner and to maximize the strengths that the working RN already possesses. Transfer up to 90 credits and earn a BSN in as little as 12 months. GCU’s online classes allow you to study at the times that work for your schedule while still enjoying a close connection with your classmates and instructor via online discussions.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
Walden’s online programs for nursing meet rigorous standards for academic quality and integrity, and 100% of our College of Nursing didactic faculty are doctorally trained. With multiple degree completion options, you can choose a bachelor’s in nursing path that makes sense for your busy, unpredictable schedule.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide, excluding CT, ND, NY and RI. Certain programs have additional state restrictions. Check with Walden for details.
Arkansas State University offers flexible nursing programs ranging from BSN pathways to advanced MSN and DNP degrees designed to support career growth at every stage. With strong online options and a focus on real-world leadership and practice, A-State prepares nurses to thrive in today’s evolving healthcare environment.
ACEN
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
3. Capella University
$14,120 - $22,250
Designed by nurses, this for-profit university program is designed in 10-week courses. Capella University boasts an impressive graduation rate and a generous transfer credit allowance from other nursing programs.
Students can also apply to the Accelerated Master’s Pathway (AMP) option. This allows you to take master's-level courses that apply toward your BSN. Once applied and accepted to the MSN program, those master’s courses can be applied toward the degree, potentially saving time and money.
Students have the option to complete this RN to BSN program either via the FlexPath or GuidedPath. The primary differences between the two pathways are the speed at which the program can be completed and the associated cost.
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Contact Information:
- Phone Number: (866) 679-9682
- Email Address: info@capella.edu
- Website
- Tuition Information:
- FlexPath: $14,120 typical pace, $21,180 slower pace
- GuidedPath: $18,000 max transfer credits, $22,250 average transfer credits
4. Arizona State University
In this program, students take 10 classes that each last 7.5 weeks. Current RNs can finish this program in approximately 15 to 18 months. The program is 39 credits, longer than most other online programs, but students take classes that are considered more innovative than other traditional BSN programs.
- Contact Phone Number: (866) 277-6589
- Email Information: asuonline@asu.edu
- Website*
>> Explore Arizona State's Online RN-BSN Program*
5. Herzing University
Herzing's RN-BSN program offers rolling admission, which allows students to apply whenever is most convenient and start the program at their own pace. Classes are 8 weeks long, and the degree can be finished in as little as 12 months. Students can take master's degree classes while completing the online BSN degree, saving time and money.
Students are required to complete a 45-hour community health project, and no traditional clinicals.
- Admission Deadline: Rolling
- Contact Phone Number: (888) 920-0937
- Website
6. University of Cincinnati
The University of Cincinnati offers a fast-track online RN to BSN program that consists of nine core courses and one capstone. Classes are seven weeks long, except the capstone course, which lasts 14 weeks.
Students can complete this program in just two semesters on a full-time schedule. Those who attend part-time may take anywhere from three to five semesters to earn their BSN. The program focuses on building nurse leaders and has six flexible start dates year-round.
- Admission Deadline:
- Spring: November 15th
- Summer: March 15th
- Contact Information:
- Phone Number: (513) 558-5500
- Email Address: nursingbearcats@uc.edu
- Website
In Chamberlain University's RN-to-BSN program, courses are 100% online, and there are no mandatory log-ins for classes. Students can start and finish at their own pace and without much guidance. Chamberlain University advertises that this program is completely customizable and is ideal for the working nurse. This program can be completed in as few as three semesters.
- Admission Deadline: Rolling
- Contact Information:
- Phone Number: (877) 751-5783
- Email Address: CCNVerifications@chamberlain.edu
- Website*
>> Explore Chamberlain University's Online RN-BSN Program*
8. University of Phoenix
In the University of Phoenix RN to BSN program, students can graduate in just 14 months. This program allows students to take one course at a time or several courses. Courses in the RN to BSN program are 5 weeks long. This program was designed for working nurses and includes courses designed by industry experts to develop career-related, critical thinking skills.
The University of Phoenix also offers one of the cheapest RN to BSN online programs in the nation.
- Admission Deadline: Rolling
- Contact Information:
- Phone Number: (844) 937-8679
- Email Address: Contact here
- Website
9. Western Governors University
WGU's online RN-to-BSN program builds on students' previous nursing education and clinical experience and focuses on research, theory, leadership, and current trends in healthcare.
With a 100% acceptance rate, WGU is one of the easiest RN to BSN programs to get into. WGU’s tuition is based on how fast you complete the program. The quicker you take classes - the cheaper the program. Tuition at WGU is charged per term rather than per credit hour.
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Contact Information:
- Phone Number: (866) 225-5948
- Email Address: admissions@wgu.edu
- Website*
>> Explore WGU's Online RN-BSN Program*
10. George Washington University
Nurses with an associate degree and an active RN license can apply for this entirely online program. GW Nursing also guarantees admission for applicants who meet specific prerequisites. They also offer special funding for veterans and the military. Students usually complete this 36-credit program in approximately 15 months.
- Admission Deadline:
- Fall:
- Priority: December 1st
- Final: August 1st
- Spring:
- Priority: August 1st
- Final: January 1st
- Fall:
- Contact Information:
- Phone Number: (571) 553-0138
- Email Information: nursing@gwu.edu
- Website
Popular Online RN-to-BSN Programs
Chamberlain University is the #1 largest school of nursing with a community of more than 177,000 students, faculty, and alumni. The school offers BSN programs online and has a long history of successfully delivering top quality education. Save up to 30%* on tuition with the RN-to-BSN Tuition Advantage Grant (*see Chamberlain website for details).
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide except CT, NY, RI
When you earn an ASU nursing degree, you are gaining skills from a respected and accredited institution. Our online nursing degrees are accredited by the Arizona State Board of Nursing and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
GCU’s RN-BSN program is tailored to meet the needs of the RN adult learner and to maximize the strengths that the working RN already possesses. Transfer up to 90 credits and earn a BSN in as little as 12 months. GCU’s online classes allow you to study at the times that work for your schedule while still enjoying a close connection with your classmates and instructor via online discussions.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
Walden’s online programs for nursing meet rigorous standards for academic quality and integrity, and 100% of our College of Nursing didactic faculty are doctorally trained. With multiple degree completion options, you can choose a bachelor’s in nursing path that makes sense for your busy, unpredictable schedule.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide, excluding CT, ND, NY and RI. Certain programs have additional state restrictions. Check with Walden for details.
Arkansas State University offers flexible nursing programs ranging from BSN pathways to advanced MSN and DNP degrees designed to support career growth at every stage. With strong online options and a focus on real-world leadership and practice, A-State prepares nurses to thrive in today’s evolving healthcare environment.
ACEN
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
What is an Online RN to BSN Program?
An online RN to BSN program is a "bridge" program designed to help you level up your career. If you already hold an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a nursing diploma, this completion degree lets you earn your Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) without the need to start a four-year program from scratch.
Since you’re already a licensed professional, you won't spend time repeating the clinical basics you use every day. Instead, you’ll focus on rounding out your expertise with advanced training in leadership, research, and public health, equipping you with the "big picture" skills needed for the next stage of your nursing journey.
How Do Online RN to BSN Programs Work?
Online RN-BSN programs are designed to fit the busy life of a working nurse. Here is a quick breakdown of how they actually work:
- Transfer Your Credits: Your ADN or diploma and your RN license usually count for about 60–90 credits upfront. You aren't starting from zero; you're just finishing the final stretch.
- Study on Your Own Time: Most programs use asynchronous learning, meaning there are no set log-in times. You can finish your coursework at 2:00 AM after a shift or on your day off.
- Leadership and Evidence-Based Practice Curriculum: You’ve already mastered bedside clinicals. Your new coursework swaps tasks like IV starts for high-level skills in leadership, healthcare policy, and evidence-based practice.
- Project-Based Clinicals: You won’t have to repeat 12-hour hospital rotations. Instead, you'll complete practicums or capstone projects that focus on community health or leadership—often tasks you can complete at your current workplace.
- Accelerated RN-BSN Programs: Many schools offer 8-week accelerated terms, allowing you to focus on one or two subjects at a time and finish the entire degree in 12 to 18 months. While one-year RN to BSN programs are common, you can complete some programs even more quickly, with 6-month RN-to-BSN programs available. For more information, check out our list of the cheapest and fastest RN-to-BSN programs.
Online RN to BSN Program Requirements
Like any nursing program, you must meet the admission requirements before applying. Requirements often include the following.
- University and School of Nursing application
- GPA of at least 3.0 from an accredited university
- Unencumbered RN license
- Official transcripts
- CV/Resume
- Letter(s) of recommendation
- Statement of Purpose
- Application fee
However, some schools have lower barriers to entry than others. You can find programs with 100% acceptance rates, no prerequisites, and even no clinical requirements!
- Easiest RN-to-BSN programs to get into
- RN-to-BSN programs with no clinical requirements
- RN-to-BSN programs with no prerequisites
- RN-to-BSN programs without statistics
Prerequisite Courses for an Online RN-to-BSN Program
Since all schools of nursing are slightly different, the following core courses are required for all students. In order to be considered for admission, these courses must have been completed. These classes may include:
- Anatomy and Physiology with a lab component
- Biology with a lab component
- Microbiology with a lab component
- Human Genetics
- Statistics
- Abnormal Psychology
- Nutrition
- Pathophysiology
- Pharmacology
- Professional Ethics
- Introduction to Research Methods and Designs
- Chemistry with a lab component
- Introduction to Sociology
What Courses Will You Take in an Online RN-to-BSN Program?
There are very real differences between the skills taught in an RN vs. BSN program. There are roughly ten courses required for approximately 30 credit hours to complete an online BSN degree. The number of required courses varies, and it depends on the courses taken during the initial ADN program.
Online courses may include:
- Nursing Informatics
- Trends in Professional Nursing
- Innovations in Healthcare
- Transitions in Professional Nursing
- Nursing Research/ Evidence-Based Practice
- Collaborative Nursing
- Nursing Management
- Nursing Leadership
- Nursing Ethics
- Community Health Nursing
- Capstone Course
Paying for RN to BSN programs
Overall costs will vary depending on the program, but online programs will be cheaper than traditional in-person RN to BSN programs, and there are many affordable RN to BSN programs out there. There are a variety of ways to pay for nursing programs, including having your employer pay for your RN to BSN. Here are some of the most popular options:
- Loans
- Grants
- Scholarship
- Work-Study Program
- Employee Tuition Reimbursement
What to Look for in an RN to BSN Program
First and foremost, you want to ensure the program is nationally accredited. The two main accreditation bodies in the United States are as follows:
- The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Beyond accreditation, consider the overall cost of the RN to BSN program. While all programs on the list mentioned above are cheap, some cost even less, and this can be important, especially for working professionals.
You will also want to consider admission requirements and make sure you meet ALL of the criteria. This will include minimal GPA as well as specific courses.
What Can You Do With an RN to BSN Degree?
After earning a BSN, there are many more opportunities. If you are interested in becoming a CRNA or APRN, you will need to have a bachelor's degree before you can further your education. Ready to take the next step? Find an RN to BSN program near you!
Explore More RN to BSN Programs
- Cheapest & Fastest Online RN to BSN Programs
- Top Online RN to BSN Programs With No Clinicals
- WGU vs. Chamberlain vs. Capella - Comparing Online RN to BSN Programs
- Are There 3-Month RN to BSN Programs?
- Top Flexible RN to BSN Online Programs
Popular Online RN-to-BSN Programs
Chamberlain University is the #1 largest school of nursing with a community of more than 177,000 students, faculty, and alumni. The school offers BSN programs online and has a long history of successfully delivering top quality education. Save up to 30%* on tuition with the RN-to-BSN Tuition Advantage Grant (*see Chamberlain website for details).
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide except CT, NY, RI
When you earn an ASU nursing degree, you are gaining skills from a respected and accredited institution. Our online nursing degrees are accredited by the Arizona State Board of Nursing and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
GCU’s RN-BSN program is tailored to meet the needs of the RN adult learner and to maximize the strengths that the working RN already possesses. Transfer up to 90 credits and earn a BSN in as little as 12 months. GCU’s online classes allow you to study at the times that work for your schedule while still enjoying a close connection with your classmates and instructor via online discussions.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
Walden’s online programs for nursing meet rigorous standards for academic quality and integrity, and 100% of our College of Nursing didactic faculty are doctorally trained. With multiple degree completion options, you can choose a bachelor’s in nursing path that makes sense for your busy, unpredictable schedule.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide, excluding CT, ND, NY and RI. Certain programs have additional state restrictions. Check with Walden for details.
Arkansas State University offers flexible nursing programs ranging from BSN pathways to advanced MSN and DNP degrees designed to support career growth at every stage. With strong online options and a focus on real-world leadership and practice, A-State prepares nurses to thrive in today’s evolving healthcare environment.
ACEN
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
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RN-BSN
