Top 6-Month RN to BSN Programs

8 Min Read Published October 1, 2025
Top 6-month RN to BSN Programs
Top 6-month RN to BSN Programs

You can earn a nursing bachelor’s degree quickly with a 6-month RN to BSN program. Though challenging, these programs can rev up your career, making you more competitive for the positions you want.

Read on to learn about the top 6-month RN to BSN programs!

Popular Online RN-to-BSN Programs

Sponsored
Chamberlain University

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).

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide except CT, NY, RI

Arizona State University - Online

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.

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide

Western Governors University

WGU's award-winning online programs are created to help you succeed while graduating faster and with less debt. WGU is a CCNE-accredited, nonprofit university offering bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing, with the additional distinction of being named a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education by the National League for Nursing. Join a trusted, accredited online university to accelerate your nursing career on your schedule. Scholarships and financial aid are available. 

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide

Grand Canyon University

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.

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide

Walden University

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.

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide, excluding CT, NY and RI. Certain programs have additional state restrictions. Check with Walden for details.

Nurse.org's Top 6-Month RN to BSN Programs

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

School Nurse.org Total Tuition Estimate** Program Length
University of Texas Health Houston Resident: $9,021

Nonresident: $35,836

2-5 Semesters (31 credit hours)
University of Utah $12,000 2-4 Semesters (30 credit hours)
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Resident: $6,905.40

Non-Resident: $19,055.40

2-3 Semesters (30 credit hours)
Georgia Southern University  $5,610 2 Semesters (30 credit hours)
University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth Resident: $9,660

Non-Resident: $22,260

2-4 Semesters (30 credit hours)
The University of Toledo $13,638.90 2 Semesters (30 credit hours)
Midwestern State University Resident: $15,523.65

Non-Resident: $26,458.65

3 Semesters (27 credit hours)
Delta State University $9,477 2 Semesters (27 credit hours)
George Mason University Resident: $12,990

Non-Resident: $44,235

6 Months (30 credit hours)
University of South Alabama $7,872 6 Months (24 credit hours)

**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. University of Texas Health Houston

Total Est. Tuition**
  • Resident: $9,021
  • Nonresident: $35,836
Program Length
2-5 Semesters (31 credit hours)
Accreditation
CCNE
Online Options Available?
Yes

Students can complete UTH's BSN bridge in 2 semesters, earning a bachelor's-level nursing degree in 6 months. This RN to BSN program in Texas includes didactic courses and clinical rotations. Students can complete their clinicals at Texas Medical Center or other healthcare facilities in the state.

UT offers three start dates for its RN to BSN classes. In addition to the 6 month RN program, UTH offers a traditional three-semester and flexible five-semester path for interested ADN nurses.

  • Application Deadline: 
    • Fall: March 15th
    • Spring: September 15th
    • Summer: January 15th
  • Contact Info: 
    • Phone: (713) 500-2145
    • Email: soninfo@uth.tmc.edu
  • Website

2. University of Utah

Total Est. Tuition**

$12,000

Program Length
2-4 Semesters (30 credit hours)
Accreditation
CCNE
Online Options Available?
Yes

University of Utah applicants get a dedicated academic advisor who helps them determine the best progression plan for their education. Students can complete the 6-month nursing program and earn a BSN in as little as two semesters. However, the university will allow them to complete it in up to four semesters if necessary.

Students may choose from three available start dates, making it ideal for working professionals who need flexibility as they swiftly complete their education.

  • Application Deadlines
    • Fall & Summer: March 1st
  • Contact Info: 
    • Phone: (801) 587-3194
    • Email: admissions@nurs.utah.edu
  • Website

3. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center

Total Est. Tuition**
  • Resident: $6,905.40
  • Non-Resident: $19,055.40
Program Length
2-3 Semesters (30 credit hours)
Accreditation
CCNE
Online Options Available?
Yes

Also home to one of the top ABSN programs in Texas, TTUHSU offers a 30-credit RN-BSN bridge. The program allows RNs to earn a BSN in two to three short semesters. Because of the curriculum's design, the program only allows full-time students to take 2 to 3 concurrent courses.

Students at TTUHSC must participate in clinicals - but not in the traditional sense. The university encourages students to complete the needed clinicals at their place of employment. 

  • Application Deadline: 
    • Spring: November 15th
    • Summer: April 1st
    • Fall:  August 1st
  • Contact Info
    • Phone: (806) 743-9294
    • Email: applynursing@ttuhsc.edu
  • Website

Popular Online RN-to-BSN Programs

Sponsored
Chamberlain University

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).

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide except CT, NY, RI

Arizona State University - Online

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.

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide

Western Governors University

WGU's award-winning online programs are created to help you succeed while graduating faster and with less debt. WGU is a CCNE-accredited, nonprofit university offering bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing, with the additional distinction of being named a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education by the National League for Nursing. Join a trusted, accredited online university to accelerate your nursing career on your schedule. Scholarships and financial aid are available. 

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide

Grand Canyon University

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.

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide

Walden University

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.

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide, excluding CT, NY and RI. Certain programs have additional state restrictions. Check with Walden for details.

4. Georgia Southern University 

Total Est. Tuition**

$5,610

Program Length
2 Semesters (30 credit hours)
Accreditation
CCNE
Online Options Available?
Yes

GSU designed its RN to BSN bridge program specifically for working nurses. Students can complete it in as little as two semesters, making it one of the fastest ADN to BSN programs available. However, if two semesters aren't feasible, students have up to five years to complete. 

GSU also has one of the lowest tuition rates among the available 6-month RN to BSN programs. Regardless, students still have several scholarships available to them.

  • Application Deadline: Rolling
  • Contact Info: 
    • Email Address: admissions@georgiasouthern.edu
    • Phone Number: (912) 478-5391
  • Website

5. University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth

Total Est. Tuition**
  • Resident: $9,660
  • Non-Resident: $22,260
Program Length
2-4 Semesters (30 credit hours)
Accreditation
CCNE
Online Options Available?
Yes

This six-month RN to BSN program is specifically designed and flexible to accommodate nurses' work and life schedules. Didactic courses are held online with limited on-campus, immersive simulations at UNT Health’s Simulation Center. The 30 required credit hours can be completed in as little as two semesters, but students can also complete the coursework in three or four semesters. 

  • Application Deadline:
    • Fall: June 1st
    • Spring: October 1st
  • Contact Info: 
    • Phone Number: (817) 735-2000
    • Website

6. The University of Toledo

Total Est. Tuition**

$13,638.90

Program Length
2 Semesters (30 credit hours)
Accreditation
CCNE
Online Options Available?
Yes

The University of Toledo's BSN bridge is the first Ohio program to receive recognition from Quality Matters for its courses and faculty. Additionally, the program is affordable for residents and non-residents alike. Unlike other schools, the University of Toledo only charges an additional $5 for out-of-state student tuition.

There is a dual partnership between the University of Toledo, Owens Community College, and Saddleback College. Students will earn their ADN degree and then, after successfully passing the NCLEX, will move into the RN to BSN program at Toledo. 

  • Application Deadline: Rolling
  • Contact Info:
    • Phone: (419) 530-8888
    • Email: CHHSadmit@utoledo.edu
  • Website

7. Midwestern State University

Total Est. Tuition**
  • Resident: $15,523.65
  • Non-Resident: $26,458.65
Program Length
3 Semesters (27 credit hours)
Accreditation
CCNE
Online Options Available?
Yes

Midwestern State University’s 6-month RN Transition Program is ideal for working professionals who can complete it in 3 semesters. But if this fast-paced program doesn’t work, students can slow the pace and complete it in four semesters. Courses are 8 and 16 weeks in the Fall and Spring semesters and 5  and 10 weeks during the summer semester. 

MSU Texas also partners with local community colleges to help ADN graduates transition into RN-to-BSN bridge programs. Students interested in the RN Transition Program must apply to MSU in addition to the program. Students must meet the admission criteria not only from the nursing program but also from the university. 

  • Application Deadline: 
    • Spring: November 1st
    • Fall: July 1st
    • Summer: May 1st
  • Contact Info: 
    • Phone: (940) 397-4331
    • Email: rntobsn@msutexas.edu
  • Website

8. Delta State University

Total Est. Tuition**

$9,477

Program Length
2 semesters (27 credit hours)
Accreditation
CCNE
Online Options Available?
Yes

Delta State University is a 6-month RN to BSN program with rolling admissions, allowing students to apply anytime. However, students must submit all application materials by February 15th, before the semester's start, to be eligible for enrollment.

Delta State University’s program prepares students for management positions and those interested in advancing their education. 

  • Application Deadline: Rolling 
  • Contact Info: 
    • Phone: (662) 846-4255 
    • Email: nursing@deltastate.edu
  • Website

9. George Mason University

Total Est. Tuition**
  • Resident: $12,990
  • Non-Resident: $44,235
Program Length
6 Months (30 credit hours)
Accreditation
CCNE
Online Options Available?
Yes

The RN to BSN program at GMU consists of 30 BSN credits, which students can complete in as little as 6 months. Students must complete all prerequisite courses and have a current, unencumbered RN license to be eligible for this program.

The university offers classes in a seven-week format, which includes a practicum requirement. While students can quickly finish the degree in two semesters, they also have the option of part-time attendance. This will extend the total time in the program but free up time to allow them to maintain a job while in school.

  • Application Deadline:
    • January 15th
  • Contact Info: 
    • Phone: (703) 993-1000
    • Email: bsnapps@gmu.edu
  • Website

10. University of South Alabama

Total Est. Tuition**

$7,872

Program Length
6 months (24 credit hours)
Accreditation
CCNE
Online Options Available?
Yes

The RN to BSN Pathway at South Alabama is specifically designed for nurses with an RN license who want to expand their education and earn a BSN. The program is taught entirely online, allowing for maximum flexibility, especially for students who work full-time and/or have family commitments. 

  • Application Deadline: 
    • Summer: February 1st
  • Contact Info: 
    • Phone: (251) 445-9400
    • Email: conRN2bsn@southalabama.edu
  • Website

Popular Online RN-to-BSN Programs

Sponsored
Chamberlain University

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).

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide except CT, NY, RI

Arizona State University - Online

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.

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide

Western Governors University

WGU's award-winning online programs are created to help you succeed while graduating faster and with less debt. WGU is a CCNE-accredited, nonprofit university offering bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing, with the additional distinction of being named a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education by the National League for Nursing. Join a trusted, accredited online university to accelerate your nursing career on your schedule. Scholarships and financial aid are available. 

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide

Grand Canyon University

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.

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide

Walden University

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.

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide, excluding CT, NY and RI. Certain programs have additional state restrictions. Check with Walden for details.

6-Month RN to BSN Program Overview

RN to BSN programs are specific programs aimed at registered nurses who have already completed an ADN program and want to earn a BSN. Traditional BSN bridge programs take about one year, but 6-month RN to BSN programs cut that timeline in half.

Going from RN to BSN in 6 months is a challenge, especially when working full-time at the bedside. Given the condensed timeline, these programs are fast-paced, intense, and often difficult to complete. They are ideal for working nurses who can finish the required coursework despite the time constraints.

Nurses Helping Nurses: Why You Can Trust Nurse.org

As the leading educational website for nurses by nurses, Nurse.org is committed to editorial integrity and data-driven analysis. We independently research schools and programs for nurses and strive to write recommendations that genuinely reflect our true opinion of the product or service. Where relevant, our recommendations may incorporate feedback from 500,000+ nurses in our social communities.

✔ Evaluated 1,100+ accredited nursing school programs using the latest U.S. government data sets. Learn more about our ranking methodology

✔ Content written by 80+ licensed, practicing nurses who are experts in their respective specialties. Learn more about our nurse contributors.

✔ Connected 1,500,000+ nurses to educational programs since 2020.

Benefits of a 6-Month RN to BSN Program

BSN bridge programs vary in length, with the fastest RN to BSN programs lasting six months. These accelerated RN to BSN programs do have some disadvantages, but there are plenty of advantages, which include:

  • Fast-paced program
  • Cost
  • Flexibility
  • Increase hiring and salary potential
  • Increased autonomy

Next Steps

Sometimes, the fastest degree tracks aren't the easiest RN to BSN programs to get into. 6-month RN to BSN programs are harder to find than other casual-paced options. Therefore, getting into these schools may be more competitive. Also, some programs require RN licensure within the state despite being entirely online. That further limits available program options. 

Put your best foot forward on applications by being thoroughly prepared. Read our RN to BSN guide to find out everything you need to know about going from an ADN to a BSN, including requirements, coursework, cost, and much more.

 

RN-BSN
Kathleen Gaines
MSN, RN, BA, CBC
Kathleen Gaines
News and Education Editor

Kathleen Gaines (nee Colduvell) is a nationally published writer turned Pediatric ICU nurse from Philadelphia with over 13 years of ICU experience. She has an extensive ICU background having formerly worked in the CICU and NICU at several major hospitals in the Philadelphia region. After earning her MSN in Education from Loyola University of New Orleans, she currently also teaches for several prominent Universities making sure the next generation is ready for the bedside. As a certified breastfeeding counselor and trauma certified nurse, she is always ready for the next nursing challenge.

Education:
MSN Nursing Education - Loyola University New Orleans
BSN - Villanova University
BA- University  of Mary Washington

Expertise:
Pediatric Nursing, Neonatal Nursing, Nursing Education, Women’s Health, Intensive Care, Nurse Journalism, Cardiac Nursing 

Read More From Kathleen
Go to the top of page