Top 10 Flexible RN to BSN Online Programs for 2026
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and diploma-educated RNs can build on their clinical experience by earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). RN to BSN programs expand on RN education with coursework in research, theory, and leadership.
Because many RNs are balancing school with full-time work and family responsibilities, program flexibility matters. To help you choose the most flexible RN to BSN program for you, we've ranked the top ten 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.
At Northern Kentucky University, we are committed to delivering innovative online nursing programs and certificate programs that are designed to empower you to advance your professional nursing practice and transform healthcare. That’s why we offer affordable nursing and healthcare programs with multiple start dates and accelerated, 100% online coursework to fit your schedule.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
Nurse.org's Top 10 RN to BSN Online Programs
Our ranking criteria are based on factors such as tuition, acceptance rate, student-to-faculty ratio, and accreditation, and we use the latest and most robust U.S. government data sets, specifically the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and the College Scorecard.
| School | Tuition | Program Length | Accreditation |
| Gardner Webb University | $770 per credit hour | 12 months | CCNE |
| Drexel University | $566 per credit hour | 12 months | ACEN |
| Chamberlain University | Less than $14,000 total | 12 months | CCNE |
| Radford University | $11,040 total | 10 months | CCNE |
| Capella University | $14,120 - $22,250 total | 12 months | CCNE |
| University of Utah | $12,000 total | 2 - 4 semesters | CCNE |
| University of Cincinnati | $629 - $644 per credit hour | 8 - 20 months | CCNE |
| Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing | $495 per credit hour | 3 semesters | CCNE |
| Millersville University | $394 - $491.50 per credit hour | 3 semesters | CCNE |
| Alvernia University | $400 per credit hour | 12 months | CCNE |
Why We Picked This School
Gardner-Webb offers an RN to BSN program with no statistics, prereqs, labs, or synchronous courses. It’s ideal for students who are also working professionals seeking the most flexible RN to BSN options. Upon completion of the program, students can easily transition into the MSN or DNP program depending on their career goals.
Program Highlights
- Five flexible start dates throughout the year
- 1-year RN to BSN program available to students from NC Community College
- Students may substitute two MSN-level courses for two RN to BSN courses
Requirements
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or nursing diploma from an accredited program
- University and School of Nursing application
- Minimum 2.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- All official transcripts from post-secondary institution(s)
- Current resume/CV
- Letter(s) of recommendation
- Statement of Purpose
- Application fee
Program Information
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (704) 406-4000
Why We Picked This School
Students can transfer up to 135 of the required 180 quarter credits into Drexel's flexible online RN to BSN program. They can complete the final 10 nursing courses in this accelerated program in just one year.
Program Highlights
- Three-year tuition lock guarantees students maintain the same cost at any pace
- Special tuition plans for ANA members, employees of health system partners, and community colleges
- No campus visits
Requirements
- ADN or nursing diploma from an accredited program
- University and School of Nursing application
- Minimum 2.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- All official transcripts from post-secondary institution(s)
- Current resume/CV
- Letter(s) of recommendation
- Statement of Purpose
- Application fee
Program Information
- Application Deadline: March 6th
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (800) 2-DREXEL
- Email Address: enroll@drexel.edu
Why We Picked This School
Chamberlain’s self-paced RN to BSN online program offers the ultimate flexibility for working nurses. Most classes, on average, have three assignments with no late penalties and discussion posts twice a week. Additionally, classes have zero exams, and students have 24/7 access to support resources for the 100% online coursework.
Program Highlights
- Offers a test-free experience where students learn skills through assignments and experiences
- Currently, the largest nursing school in the country
- 90% of students use a form of financial assistance to mitigate total costs
Requirements
- ADN or nursing diploma from an accredited program
- University and School of Nursing application
- Minimum 2.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- All official transcripts from post-secondary institution(s)
- Current resume/CV
- Letter(s) of recommendation
- Statement of Purpose
- Application fee
Program Information
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (877) 571-9263
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.
Earning your nursing degree online from William Paterson University opens doors to new opportunities promoting the health of patients through evidence-based nursing practice. Our CCNE-accredited online nursing programs are designed to be flexible and convenient for working RNs.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
Why We Picked This School
Radford offers an affordable and flexible RN to BSN program online. Both resident and nonresident students enjoy the same low-cost tuition. Additionally, the program is highly personalized as students receive one-on-one instruction from an assigned faculty member.
Program Highlights
- Six convenient start dates annually
- A co-enrollment program with the Virginia Community College System School
- Ranked a Gold status as a Military Friendly and Military Spouse Friendly School
Requirements
- ADN or nursing diploma from an accredited program
- University and School of Nursing application
- Minimum 2.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- All official transcripts from post-secondary institution(s)
- Current resume/CV
- Letter(s) of recommendation
- Statement of Purpose
- Application fee
Program Information
- Application Deadline: February 23rd
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (877) 660-0461
Why We Picked This School
Students have the option to complete this self-paced online RN to BSN program either via the FlexPath or GuidedPath. The primary differences between the two pathways are the speed at which students can complete them and the associated cost. Capella gives students the ultimate flexibility.
Program Highlights
- Partnership with over 700 healthcare organizations that provide generous tuition savings programs to employees
- With FlexPath, students transfer an average of 65% of the credits required to complete their BSN
- $15,000 Capella Progress Reward scholarship available to help fund bachelor’s degrees for select programs
Requirements
- ADN or nursing diploma from an accredited program
- University and School of Nursing application
- Minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- All official transcripts from post-secondary institution(s)
- Current resume/CV
- Letter(s) of recommendation
- Statement of Purpose
- Application fee
Program Information
- Tuition:
- FlexPath: $14,120 typical pace, $21,180 slower pace
- GuidedPath: $18,000 max transfer credits, $22,250 average transfer credits
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (866) 679-9682
- Email Address: info@capella.edu
Why We Picked This School
The University of Utah is one of the few nursing schools that no longer requires letters of recommendation. Instead, it considers student experience, including service to others, responsibility, and organizational skills for admission.
Program Highlights
- Students can complete the RN to BSN program in two, three, or four semesters
- Priority admission for students in the Intermountain West region, including Nevada, Utah, Idaho, Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, Arizona, and New Mexico
- Online students only need to travel to campus five or fewer times per semester
Requirements
- ADN or nursing diploma from an accredited program
- University and School of Nursing application
- Minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- All official transcripts from post-secondary institution(s)
- Current resume/CV
- Statement of Purpose
- Application fee
Program Information
- Application Deadline: March 1st
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (801) 587-3194
- Email Address: admissions@nurs.utah.edu
Why We Picked This School
University of Cincinnati’s flexible RN to BSN online program is highly customizable based on transfer credits and availability. With courses available all year, including in the summer, students can complete the program in as few as eight months.
Program Highlights
- The university offers each 7-week course twice per semester
- Students have the option to obtain a minor in public health during the course of the program
- All faculty are clinically active nurses who bring real-life experience to courses
Requirements
- ADN or nursing diploma from an accredited program
- University and School of Nursing application
- Minimum 2.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- All official transcripts from post-secondary institution(s)
- Current resume/CV
- Letter(s) of recommendation
- Statement of Purpose
- Application fee
Program Information
- Tuition Breakdown:
- Resident: $629 per credit hour
- Non-Resident: $644 per credit hour
- Application Deadline:
- Summer: March 15th
- Fall: July 1st
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (513) 556-6826
- Email Address: onlineenrollment@uc.edu
Why We Picked This School
Designed for working nurses, this flexible RN to BSN bridge offers 100% online coursework and no class meetings. Students can take as many classes as their schedule permits, and the university offers all courses each semester.
Program Highlights
- Bon Secours employees receive 100% tuition reimbursement in exchange for a minimum of 18 months' commitment upon graduation
- Success advisors guide students as they adjust to web-based education
- Students can log into courses anytime to completely customize their education around their work and personal lives
Requirements
- ADN or nursing diploma from an accredited program
- University and School of Nursing application
- Minimum 2.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- All official transcripts from post-secondary institution(s)
- Current resume/CV
- Letter(s) of recommendation
- Statement of Purpose
- Application fee
Program Information
- Application Deadline:
- Spring: November 1st
- Fall: June 1st
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (804) 627-5300
- Email Address: admissions@bshsi.org
Why We Picked This School
Graduates from any accredited ADN program may apply to Millersville's online RN to BSN. However, the program is specifically designed for students completing their Associate of Science in Nursing degree at Harrisburg Area Community College.
Program Highlights
- Six annual start dates, including two in the fall, two in the spring, and two in the summer
- Students can take up to four MSN courses during the online RN to BSN program
- Courses focus on ethics, diversity, population health, and integration of technology in healthcare
Requirements
- ADN or nursing diploma from an accredited program
- University and School of Nursing application
- Minimum 2.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale
- Active, unencumbered RN license or pending license after completion of NCLEX
- All official transcripts from post-secondary institution(s)
- Current resume/CV
- Application fee
Program Information
- Tuition Breakdown:
- Resident: $394 per credit hour
- Non-Resident: $491.50 per credit hour
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (717) 871-4274
- Email Address: nursing@millersville.edu
Why We Picked This School
Alvernia offers accelerated 7-week courses for its RN to BSN program, allowing students to graduate in just 12 months. The online format is also convenient for working nurses as they can complete coursework on their own schedule. The classes students take in this program focus on leadership, advocacy, and evidence-based practice.
Program Highlights
- Students may transfer up to 90 credits toward the 123-credit requirement
- Ranked in the top 50% of nursing schools in Pennsylvania
- RN to BSN program students receive personalized academic coaching and support
Requirements
- ADN or nursing diploma from an accredited program
- University and School of Nursing application
- Minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- All official transcripts from post-secondary institution(s)
- Current resume/CV
- Letter(s) of recommendation
- Statement of Purpose
- Application fee
Program Information
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (888) 258-3764
- Email Address: admissions@alvernia.edu
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.
Our affordable, accelerated online nursing programs at St. Thomas University are designed to help you achieve your goals – equipping you with the resources and support you need to progress and succeed as a leader in nursing.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
What to Expect in an RN to BSN Online Program
RN to BSN programs require an Associate Degree in Nursing or a nursing diploma. ADN and diploma-educated nurses already have a solid foundation of clinical knowledge and skills. So, the RN to BSN program typically provides nursing classes geared toward research, leadership, and nursing theory.
Most of the time, you should expect to already have RN licensure before becoming eligible for an RN to BSN program. Some programs allow you to enroll with pending licensure if you’ve passed the NCLEX. However, all students must earn their RN by a specific point in the program, no matter the admittance process.
Additionally, while there are a few RN to BSN programs without clinicals, most have one or two in-person rotations, including community health. Many universities allow students to complete their practicum experiences at their place of employment.
FAQs
Additional Resources
- Top 10 Online RN to BSN Programs
- Cheapest & Fastest Online RN to BSN Programs
- Top Online RN to BSN Programs With No Clinicals
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