Top 10 Part-Time RN to BSN Programs for 2026
Earning your BSN is a major milestone, but for most registered nurses, quitting work to go back to school isn't an option. Part-time RN to BSN programs bridge the gap between ADN and BSN education, allowing you to advance your credentials without sacrificing your paycheck.
To help you choose the right program, we’ve ranked the top part-time RN to 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.
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
Nurse.org’s Top 10 Part-Time RN to BSN Programs
Our ranking criteria are based on factors such as tuition, student-to-faculty ratio, and accreditation. We use the latest data sets from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and official school disclosures.
| School | Tuition | Program Length | Accreditation |
| University of Florida | $129 - $152 per credit hour | 5 semesters | CCNE |
| University of Central Florida | $212.28 - $802.54 per credit hour | 5 semesters | CCNE |
| Utah Tech University | $260 per credit hour | 3 - 5 semesters | ACEN |
| University of Illinois Chicago | $330 per credit hour | 12 - 24 months | CCNE |
| Western Washington University | $8,523 - $27,690 per year | 2 years | CCNE |
| Florida Atlantic University | $203.71 - $799.72 per credit hour | 3 - 6 semesters | CCNE |
| Florida International University | $235.57 - $690.19 per credit hour | 12 - 24 Months | CCNE |
| Clarkson College | $345 per credit hour | 6 semesters | ACEN |
| Chamberlain University | $280 - $635 per credit hour | 3+ semesters | CCNE |
| Drexel University | $566 per credit hour | 12- 24 Months | CCNE |
Why We Picked This School
The University of Florida offers one of the most affordable and flexible part-time RN to BSN tracks in the country. Their program is 100% online and specifically tailored for licensed nurses who want to balance work and school. UF’s reputation for academic excellence ensures your degree carries significant weight with employers.
Program Highlights
- Ranked as one of the best value nursing programs in the U.S.
- 100% online with 45 clinical hours completed via virtual simulation
- No-cost transcript evaluation for prospective students
Requirements
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) from an accredited nursing school
- Active, unencumbered Florida RN license (or eNLC)
- An overall GPA of at least 2.8
- A minimum grade of C in all required preprofessional courses
- C grade or higher in all required preprofessional courses
- Current resume/CV
Program Information
The program is hybrid - Population Health, 45 hours are obtained through independent clinical experience. Students must choose a zip code near their current location, travel to the zip code throughout the semester, and complete a clinical project from their informal observations of the community.
- Tuition:
- Resident: $129.18 per credit hour
- Nonresident: $552.62 per credit hour
- Application Deadline:
- Spring: August 31
- Summer: February 2
- Fall: April 27
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (352) 273-6400
- Email: conweb@health.ufl.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.
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
Why We Picked This School
UCF is a leader in online nursing education, offering a flexible part-time track that students can complete entirely from home. They provide a seamless transition for ADN-prepared nurses and offer a flat-rate tuition for online out-of-state students that remains highly competitive.
Program Highlights
- Entirely online program offering several start dates year-round
- Small student-to-faculty ratio for personalized support
- 30 credits of nursing-specific coursework required
Requirements
- ADN from a regionally accredited nursing school
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale
- Complete all but one nursing prerequisite with a C grade or higher
- Score 78% or higher on the TEAS exam
- Background check
- Florida residency
Program Information
- Application Deadline:
- Fall: July 1st
- Spring: November 1st
- Summer: March 1st
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (407) 823-2744
Why We Picked This School
Utah Tech stands out for its straightforward pricing—charging the same $260 per credit regardless of residency. Their program is 100% online and asynchronous, meaning you can study at whatever time fits your shift schedule.
Program Highlights
- Flat-rate tuition for residents and non-residents
- Six start dates annually for maximum flexibility
- Asynchronous courses typically last just 6 weeks
Requirements
- ADN or nursing diploma from an accredited nursing program
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- Minimum 2.7 GPA on a 4.0 scale
Program Information
- Application Deadline:
- Fall: April 17th
- Spring: September 21st
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (435) 879-4810
- Email: nursing@utahtech.edu
Why We Picked This School
UIC offers a fully online degree completion program that allows nurses to learn on their own schedule while maintaining the rigor of a top-tier research university. They provide personalized attention through a dedicated advisor who helps you map out your part-time path.
Program Highlights
- Continuous enrollment with fall, spring, and summer starts
- No-cost transcript evaluation for admitted students
- Consistent tuition rates regardless of location
- RN to BSN program part oft he #3 Ranking of Best Bachelor’s Programs nationwide, according to U.S. News & World Report
Requirements
- Active, unencumbered RN licensure or NCLEX test date
- All official transcripts from post-secondary institution(s)
- Minimum 2.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale
Program Information
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (312) 996-7800
- Email: conapply@uic.edu
Why We Picked This School
Western Washington University offers a unique hybrid model where classes meet just one full day per week (or every other week) and a completely online option. The hybrid program is ideal for nurses who live in the Pacific Northwest and prefer some face-to-face interaction while still working most of the week.
Program Highlights
- Classes meet just one day per week to minimize travel
- 45 upper-division credits designed for professional growth
- High graduate employment and satisfaction rates
Requirements
- ADN or nursing diploma from an accredited nursing school
- At least 90 transferable credits, including nursing prereqs with a 2.0 GPA or higher
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale
- Passing NCLEX-RN score (or scheduled NCLEX for applicants completing prelicensure programs)
- Active, unencumbered Washington State RN license
- $70 application fee
- All official transcripts from post-secondary institution(s)
- Goal statements
- Current resume/CV
- Two academic and professional references
Program Information
- Tuition:
- Resident: $8,523 per year
- Nonresident: $27,690 per year
- Application Deadline: June 30th
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (360) 650-6700
- Email: bsn.applications@wwu.edu
Why We Picked This School
FAU offers four distinct study plans, allowing part-time students to choose a pace that truly fits their lives. They are known for being highly inclusive, accepting students with a GPA as low as 2.5.
Program Highlights
- Three start dates per year (Spring, Summer, Fall)
- Flexible clinical placement options in your own community
- No letters of recommendation or personal statement required
Requirements
- ADN from an accredited nursing school (or international equivalent)
- 60 transferable lower division college credits
- Minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale.
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- "C" or higher in all prerequisite courses
- Background check and fingerprinting
Program Information
- Tuition:
- Resident: $203.71 per credit hour
- Nonresident: $799.72 per credit hour
- Application Deadline:
- Spring: July 31st
- Fall: February 5th
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (561) 297-3887
- Email: nursing@health.fau.edu
Why We Picked This School
FIU Online provides a strong academic foundation that is ideal for nurses planning to move into a graduate MSN or DNP program eventually. Their 100% online curriculum allows you to transfer up to 60 credits from your associate degree.
Program Highlights
- Streamlined 33-credit nursing curriculum
- High emphasis on community health and nursing leadership
- Affordable out-of-state "market rate" options available
Requirements
- ADN or nursing diploma from an accredited nursing school
- Active Florida RN license or eNLC license
- Minimum 2.75 GPA
- Minimum 60 transferable lower-division college credits
- Approved transferred nursing coursework must be completed within 5 years of enrollment at the time of admission
Program Information
- Tuition:
- Resident: $235.57 per credit hour
- Nonresident: $690.19 per credit hour
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (305) 348-3125
- Email: onlineprograms@fiu.edu
Why We Picked This School
Clarkson College is known for its academic excellence and customizable study options. Their part-time track allows you to validate up to 83 credits for your previous professional experience, significantly shortening the time needed to graduate.
Program Highlights
- Validation policy for up to 83 credits of prior experience
- You can complete clinical requirements locally at your workplace
- Small student-to-faculty ratio for direct instructor access
Requirements
- Current, unencumbered RN license
- Minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale
- 2.5 GPA in math and science courses
- Completed application and fee
- All official transcripts from post-secondary institution(s)
- Meet English proficiency requirements
- Personal essay
Program Information
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (402) 552-3100
- Email: admissions@clarksoncollege.edu
Why We Picked This School
Chamberlain is a popular choice for working nurses due to their "zero tests" approach. Students acquire skills through assignments and experiential projects rather than high-stakes exams. Their part-time track is incredibly supportive and allows you to transfer up to 75% of your required credits.
Program Highlights
- 100% online coursework with no scheduled class times
- Zero tests (assignments and projects only)
- Transfer-friendly policy for ADN-prepared nurses
Requirements
- ADN or nursing diploma from an accredited nursing school
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- Minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale
Program Information
- Tuition:
- Standard: $635 per credit hour
- Active Duty Military: $200 per credit hour
- Veterans, Retired Military, DoD & VA employees, Military Spouses: $280 per credit hour
- Alumni: $507 per credit hour
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Contact Info:
- Phone: (877) 307-0818
- Email: admissions@chamberlain.edu
Why We Picked This School
Drexel offers a highly respected, online RN to BSN program with a unique "tuition lock" feature—meaning your rates won't go up while you finish your degree part-time. They offer specific discounts for employees of many healthcare partners and ANA members.
Program Highlights
- Tuition lock guarantees your rate throughout the program
- Significant discounts for partner hospital employees
- Taught by the same top-tier faculty as the on-campus programs
Requirements
- ADN from an accredited school
- Active RN license
- Resume and letters of recommendation
- High School diploma or equivalency
- ADN or nursing diploma from an accredited nursing program
- Minimum 2.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale
- Active, unrestricted RN license (provisional entry may be granted before NCLEX examination)
- All official transcripts from post-secondary institution(s)
- Completion of prerequisite courses with a “C” grade or better
Program Information
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (267) 359-5555
- Email: enroll@drexel.edu
What to Expect in a Part-Time RN to BSN Program
In a part-time RN to BSN program, you will expand on your initial clinical training by focusing on the "big picture" of healthcare. The curriculum usually skips the basic clinical skills you already use and instead dives into:
- Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice
- Community and Public Health
- Leadership and Healthcare Management
- Informatics and Patient Care Technology
You can usually expect to take one or two classes at a time. You can complete most programs in 18 to 24 months at a part-time pace, though some accelerated options allow for faster completion.
How to Choose a Part-Time RN to BSN Program
- Transfer Credits: Look for schools that offer "generous transfer policies." Many schools will give you up to 30 credits just for holding an active RN license.
- Tuition Assistance: Many hospitals offer tuition reimbursement. Check if your employer has a specific "preferred partner" school that offers additional discounts.
- Clinical Requirements: Some schools require in-person clinical hours in the community, while others (like UF) allow you to complete these through virtual simulation.
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
FAQs
Additional Resources
- Cheapest & Fastest Online RN to BSN Programs
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