5 Affordable RN to BSN Programs in 2024

Last Updated On Nov 13, 2024

RegisteredNursing.org Staff

8 Min Read

Online RN to BSN Programs – A Great Option for Frugal Students

One option that can be considered right off the bat to save money is an online RN to BSN program. Online options can often be cheaper when compared to their on-campus counterparts. Here are a few reasons why:

Lower Tuition – Many online RN to BSN programs often lower tuition or per-credit rates for online coursework. Even if they don’t, many schools charge the same tuition for in-state and out-of-state online students, giving them many more feasible program options to consider.

Commute Savings – Online RN to BSN programs eliminate the costly expenses associated with commuting to campus, including gas, car wear and tear, parking permits, public transportation costs, and more. In addition, students don’t have to worry about relocation or moving expenses if they don’t live within a reasonable distance from campus.

Flexible Scheduling – With asynchronous courses and flexible scheduling, many students can fit their coursework around their work schedules, helping them maintain their income while they complete their RN to BSN studies.

Cheap and Affordable RN to BSN Programs to Consider

The following schools offer accredited, high-quality RN to BSN programs while balancing affordable tuition. If you want to advance your nursing career with a world-class education without breaking the bank, these five picks are excellent options. These RN to BSN programs can be completed quickly and efficiently, and many of them are also offered online for even more savings.

1. University of Central Florida

In-State RN to BSN Total Tuition Cost: $ 3,152.10 (30 credits)

Out-Of-State RN to BSN Total Tuition Cost: $ 18,483.90 (30 credits)

The University of Central Florida (UCF) in Orlando offers an RN to BSN program that equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in nursing practice. UCF’s program emphasizes clinical experiences, evidence-based practice, and interprofessional collaboration. With access to cutting-edge resources and dedicated faculty, nursing students at UCF receive a well-rounded education that prepares them to meet the demands of the healthcare industry. This quick (not to mention incredibly affordable) RN to BSN program is available 100% online, making it perfect for students who are already working in the nursing field.

2. Dalton State College

In-State RN-BSN Total Cost: $3,204 (30 Credits)

Out-of-State RN-BSN Total Cost: $11,835.90 (30 Credits)

Dalton State College, situated in Georgia, provides a cost-effective pathway to becoming a registered nurse through its RN to BSN program. The program integrates theoretical knowledge with practical experience in clinical settings, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to provide safe and effective patient care. With a commitment to fostering strong clinical skills, critical thinking abilities, and communication techniques, Dalton State’s nursing program empowers students to impact healthcare settings positively.

Though many RN to BSN programs allow their students to complete their education completely online, DSC does not. Students not living in Georgia will need to relocate in order to fulfill clinical requirements.

3. Florida SouthWestern State College

In-State RN-BSN Total Tuition Cost (online): $10,000 (30 credits)

Out-of-State RN-BSN Total Tuition Cost (online): $23,860.20 (30 Credits)

Residents of Florida have a unique opportunity to spend only $10,000 on their BSN at Florida SouthWestern State College, currently one of the most affordable degrees that you could possibly attain. Beyond residency in Florida, you’ll need to meet these other admissions requirements:

Complete either an Associate in Arts (AA) degree or an Associate in Science (AS) degree at Florida SouthWestern State College
Be accepted into, and maintain enrollment in, one of the qualifying bachelor’s degrees: Cardiopulmonary Sciences or Public Safety Administration
Maintain Florida residency for tuition purposes for all semesters enrolled at FSW
Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher at point of graduation from the qualifying bachelor’s degree
Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year you are enrolled in the qualifying associate and bachelor’s degrees
Complete the associate and bachelor’s degrees within six years of declaring a qualifying associate degree major

The program is offered fully online, so long as all clinical requirements and licensure exams are fulfilled.

4. Georgia Southwestern State University

Online Total RN-BSN Tuition Cost (In or Out of State): $10,159.80 (60 Credits)

Georgia Southwestern State University offers an online RN-BSN program that elaborates and expands on the education and training that the practicing nurse currently has. Upon graduation, the opportunities offered to the nurse will be more diverse and wide-reaching.

This accelerated BSN program is open to any nurse who has their license and has passed the NCLEX-RN. Unlike many other types of RN to BSN programs, GSWSU’s RN to BSN program allows its students to take their classes at their own pace and complete their education in as little as a year! While you can expect some hidden fees to be rolled into the incredibly low tuition, textbooks won’t be one of them — all required reading will be available through an open source.

5. Broward College

In-State Total BSN Tuition Cost: $15,116.70 (123 credits)

Out-Of-State Total BSN Tuition Cost: $29,938.20 (123 Credits)

Broward College, situated in Florida, offers a BSN program designed to prepare students for success as registered nurses, with the option of filling out an RN to BSN supplemental application. Broward College provides a strong foundation for nursing practice With a comprehensive curriculum covering nursing fundamentals, critical thinking, and clinical reasoning. The program emphasizes patient safety, cultural competence, and holistic patient care. Broward College’s nursing faculty are dedicated to mentoring students and fostering their growth as compassionate and competent healthcare professionals.

While the timeline to graduation is a bit longer than most RN to BSN programs, the affordability of their program is a huge factor that draws in so many students every year. The admissions requirements are also fairly straightforward — a nursing license from the State of Florida, a 2.5 GPA, and an associates degree from an accredited program.

Find RN to BSN Degree Programs Near You

We have curated 300+ RN to BSN program listings across the country. See options near you by selecting your state below.

Was this Article Helpful?