Within the last few years, the push to hire bachelor’s educated registered nurses has gained momentum. It seems likely that in the future, a bachelor’s degree will be the minimum education requirement for registered nurses.

For decades, leaders in the field of nursing have encouraged associate’s and diploma-level nurses to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. Research has proven that nurses with this degree experience improved job satisfaction, improved patient outcomes, and fewer clinical errors. RN to BSN bridge programs help nurses advance their education in a cost-effective and timely manner.

Interested in an online RN to BSN program?

2025 Best Online RN to BSN Programs

Looking for the best online RN to BSN programs? RegisteredNursing.org has you covered. We rank top programs to help you find the right fit. Our list makes it easy to compare options. We focus on quality, flexibility, and value. Start your search with us today. Learn more about how we rank programs here.

#1

West Chester University of Pennsylvania

West Chester, PA - Public 4-Year - wcupa.edu

Bachelor's - RN-to-BSN Program

Online Learning - Visit Website

West Chester University's RN-to-BSN program delivers a comprehensive online pathway for licensed registered nurses seeking professional advancement. By combining asynchronous learning with a rigorous curriculum, nurses can complete their degree within two semesters while maintaining professional commitments. The CCNE-accredited program emphasizes critical domains including professional development, evidence-based research, ethical practice, and leadership skills. Tailored for working professionals, the curriculum integrates population health perspectives and prepares nurses for expanded roles in contemporary healthcare environments.

  • CCNE-accredited nursing program
  • Complete BSN in two semesters
  • 100% online asynchronous format
  • No charge for transfer credits
  • CLEP credits accepted
  • Minimum 2.75 GPA required
  • 120 total credits needed
  • 7-week course sessions
  • Year-round course offerings

Bachelor's - BSN for the Registered Nurse

Online Learning - Visit Website

West Chester University's transformative online RN-to-BSN program empowers nursing professionals to elevate their academic credentials strategically. Through a customized learning approach, students can complete their degree expeditiously while minimizing additional credit requirements. The curriculum comprehensively addresses professional communication, healthcare research methodologies, policy analysis, and advanced leadership competencies. Designed with working nurses in mind, the program facilitates seamless integration of academic learning with practical clinical expertise.

  • 100% online program
  • Complete in two semesters
  • CCNE-accredited nursing program
  • No transfer credit charges
  • Minimum 2.75 GPA required
  • Asynchronous course format
  • Year-round course offerings
  • CLEP credits accepted

Bachelor's - RN-to-BSN

Online Learning - Visit Website

West Chester University's innovative RN-to-BSN program provides registered nurses an accelerated pathway to advanced professional development. The curriculum strategically balances theoretical knowledge with practical application, covering essential domains such as professional communication, research methodologies, healthcare ethics, and leadership principles. By offering a flexible online format, the program enables working nurses to enhance their critical thinking skills and technological competencies while meeting rigorous AACN baccalaureate standards.

  • CCNE-accredited nursing program
  • 100% online asynchronous format
  • Complete in two semesters
  • No transfer credit fees
  • CLEP credits accepted
  • Minimum 2.75 GPA required
  • 120 total credits needed
  • 7-week course sessions
  • Year-round course availability
  • Multiple nursing course options
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#2

University of Cincinnati-Main Campus

Cincinnati, OH - Public 4-Year - uc.edu

Bachelor's - RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Cincinnati's RN to BSN Online program is a comprehensive pathway for licensed RNs seeking career advancement. Tailored for registered nurses with an associate degree, this program offers maximum flexibility with a fully online format and no clinical requirements. Students can complete the program efficiently, typically within 9-18 months, by completing only nine nursing courses. With six annual start dates and CCNE accreditation, the curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice and interprofessional learning. The affordable tuition of $564 per credit hour, guaranteed for four years, makes this program an attractive option for working nurses looking to expand their professional opportunities.

  • 100% online program
  • No clinical requirements
  • Only 9 nursing courses
  • Six annual start dates
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Flexible completion time
  • Easy credit transfer
  • Public Health Nursing option
  • Nurse Educator track available
  • Interprofessional curriculum

Bachelor's - RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Concentration: Public Health Nursing - Online Learning - Visit Website

Cincinnati's RN to BSN Online program with a Public Health Nursing concentration provides specialized education for registered nurses aiming to make broader community health impacts. This targeted curriculum prepares nurses to address population health challenges through comprehensive, evidence-based strategies. Students benefit from a fully online format that allows seamless integration of advanced public health principles into their professional practice. The program's interprofessional approach, combined with CCNE accreditation, ensures graduates are equipped with critical skills in health promotion, disease prevention, and community wellness interventions.

  • 100% online program
  • No clinical requirements
  • 9 nursing courses total
  • Six annual start dates
  • Public Health Nursing option
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Flexible completion timeline
  • Tuition $564 per credit hour
  • Transfer credits accepted
  • Evidence-based curriculum

Bachelor's - RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Concentration: Nurse Educator - Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Cincinnati's Nurse Educator concentration within the RN to BSN program offers a strategic pathway for nurses aspiring to educational leadership roles. This innovative online curriculum prepares nurses to become effective educators in clinical and academic settings. By focusing on advanced teaching methodologies, curriculum development, and educational technologies, students develop comprehensive skills to shape future nursing education. The program's flexible structure, completed in as little as nine months, allows working nurses to enhance their pedagogical expertise without disrupting their current professional commitments.

  • 100% online program
  • No clinical requirements
  • Nine nursing courses total
  • Six annual start dates
  • Nurse Educator track available
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Flexible completion timelines
  • Part-time and full-time options
  • $564 per credit hour
  • Tuition guaranteed for four years
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#3

University of Utah

Salt Lake City, UT - Public 4-Year - utah.edu

Bachelor's - RN to BSN

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Utah offers an online RN to BSN program tailored for licensed nurses aiming to elevate their professional standing. This 30-credit program, priced at $400 per credit, blends flexibility with a rigorous curriculum covering health promotion, leadership, and healthcare systems. Ideal for working nurses, it requires an associate degree in nursing, a current RN license, and a 3.0 GPA. Students benefit from multiple start terms and a clinical capstone, preparing them for advanced roles without sacrificing their current positions.

  • 30 total credits required
  • Fully online program format
  • $400 per credit tuition
  • Geriatric Nursing Leadership emphasis
  • Multiple start terms: Fall/Spring/Summer
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
  • Nine prerequisite courses needed
  • Designed for working RNs
  • Clinical capstone in fourth semester

Bachelor's - RN to BSN Geriatric Nursing Leadership

Concentration: Geriatric Nursing Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website

Specializing in Geriatric Nursing Leadership, the University of Utah's online RN to BSN program is a prime choice for nurses focusing on elder care. This 30-credit program, at $400 per credit, emphasizes cultural competence, leadership, and advanced healthcare practices for the aging population. Requiring a 3.0 GPA and current RN licensure, it offers flexibility with online coursework and multiple start terms. Graduates emerge ready for leadership roles in geriatric care, equipped with skills for case management, patient education, and further academic pursuits in nursing.

  • Online flexible format
  • 30 credit hours required
  • $400 per credit tuition
  • Geriatric nursing concentration
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • Current RN license needed
  • Multiple start terms available
  • Clinical capstone experience
  • Leadership skill development
  • Career advancement opportunities
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#4

The University of Alabama

Tuscaloosa, AL - Public 4-Year - ua.edu

Bachelor's - RN to BSN

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Alabama's online RN to BSN program is tailored for registered nurses seeking to elevate their professional qualifications without sacrificing their current work commitments. This program stands out for its affordability at $385 per credit hour and the requirement of only 25 nursing credit hours, making it an efficient and cost-effective option for RNs with an associate's degree or diploma. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, it offers a curriculum rich in informatics, evidence-based practice, and community health, designed to prepare nurses for leadership roles. The program's flexibility is a key advantage, with year-round application acceptance and no need for ACT/SAT scores, catering to the busy schedules of working professionals.

  • Online flexible format
  • 25 nursing credit hours
  • $385 per credit hour
  • Accredited nursing program
  • Year-round application acceptance
  • RN licensure required
  • No ACT/SAT scores needed
  • 2.5 GPA prerequisite
  • Annual background check
  • Total 126 graduation credits

Bachelor's - RN to BSN/MSN Nurse Executive

Concentration: Nurse Executive - Online Learning - Visit Website

For registered nurses aiming for leadership positions in healthcare, The University of Alabama's RN to BSN/MSN Nurse Executive program offers a streamlined online pathway to achieve both a Bachelor's and Master's degree with a focus on nurse executive skills. This program is distinguished by its accelerated format, allowing students to complete their BSN in four semesters before advancing to the MSN. With tuition rates of $385 per hour for bachelor's and $440 for master's courses, it provides a cost-effective route to advanced education. The curriculum emphasizes healthcare management, requiring 180 clinical hours, and is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, ensuring a high-quality education for aspiring nurse executives.

  • Fully online program
  • 50-56 total credit hours
  • Bachelor's tuition $385/hour
  • Master's tuition $440/hour
  • RN license required
  • 3.0 GPA minimum
  • No campus attendance
  • Early graduate admission
  • 180 clinical hours required
  • CCNE accredited program
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#5

Arizona State University Campus Immersion

Tempe, AZ - Public 4-Year - asu.edu

Bachelor's - Online RN to BSN

Online Learning - Visit Website

Arizona State University's online RN to BSN program is tailored for registered nurses seeking to elevate their professional standing. This program stands out for its flexibility, allowing completion in as little as 14 months, making it ideal for working nurses. The curriculum is designed to deepen understanding in leadership, evidence-based practice, and health innovation, equipping graduates to meet the demands of modern healthcare. Admission requires an active RN license and a minimum 2.50 transfer GPA, ensuring students are prepared for the rigors of advanced study. The program's online format does not compromise on quality, offering the same accredited curriculum as on-campus options.

  • Online flexible learning format
  • 14-24 month completion time
  • 36 total credit hours
  • 10 total classes
  • 7.5 weeks per class
  • Active RN license required
  • Minimum 2.50 transfer GPA
  • Accredited nursing curriculum
  • No online designation on diploma

Bachelor's - RN to BSN – Concurrent Enrollment Program

Online Learning - Visit Website

The RN to BSN Concurrent Enrollment Program at Arizona State University offers a streamlined approach for nurses to achieve their BSN while completing an associate degree. This innovative program blends online coursework with clinical training, focusing on evidence-based practice, leadership, and public health. It's designed for those looking to fast-track their education, requiring a minimum 3.00 GPA for admission. Graduates emerge with enhanced skills in critical thinking and professional communication, ready to tackle the challenges of today's healthcare environment and advance into higher-level nursing positions.

  • 100% online coursework
  • Concurrent ADN and BSN degrees
  • 9 total program classes
  • 120 total credit hours
  • Minimum 3.00 GPA required
  • Regionally accredited college required
  • Enhances career opportunities
  • Supports professional development
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#6

Auburn University

Auburn, AL - Public 4-Year - auburn.edu

Bachelor's - Nursing, RN to BSN

Online Learning - Visit Website

Auburn University's online RN to BSN program is tailored for registered nurses seeking to enhance their qualifications with a bachelor's degree. This program stands out for its flexibility, allowing students to complete their degree in as little as three semesters. With the opportunity to transfer up to 37 credits, nurses can fast-track their education. The curriculum is designed to deepen understanding in holistic nursing, evidence-based practice, and leadership, equipping graduates for broader roles in healthcare. Admission requires a current RN license and a minimum GPA of 2.5, making it accessible for many professionals.

  • Online flexible program
  • Three-semester completion time
  • 37 potential transfer credits
  • Minimum 2.5 GPA required
  • Current RN license needed
  • Upper division nursing courses
  • Professional nursing development
  • Holistic health approach
  • Evidence-based practice focus
  • Leadership skill development

Bachelor's - Concurrent BSN

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Auburn University offers a Concurrent BSN program in a hybrid format, blending online coursework with in-person learning. This program is ideal for RNs aiming to advance their education while continuing to work. It emphasizes a holistic approach to nursing, integrating evidence-based practice and leadership development into its curriculum. Students can potentially transfer 37 credits, reducing the time to degree completion. The program requires a 2.5 GPA, current RN licensure, and completion of prerequisite courses, offering a structured yet flexible pathway to a BSN.

  • Three-semester completion time
  • Hybrid program format
  • Minimum 2.5 GPA required
  • 37 potential transfer credits
  • Professional nursing skill development
  • Current RN license mandatory
  • Two track options available
  • Clinical practice hours included
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#7

Endicott College

Beverly, MA - Private 4-year - endicott.edu

Bachelor's - RN to BSN

Online Learning - Visit Website

Endicott College's RN to BSN online program is tailored for registered nurses seeking to advance their education with flexibility. This program stands out for its emphasis on blending theoretical knowledge with practical clinical applications, all within a supportive online environment. With a curriculum that requires 126 credits, students are prepared for leadership roles and further graduate studies. Highlights include a 99% job placement rate and a 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate, showcasing the program's effectiveness. Additionally, the option for a fifth-year Master's and clinical partnerships with top hospitals provide unique opportunities for students. The program is CCNE accredited, ensuring a high-quality education.

  • Online flexible format
  • 126 total credits required
  • Clinical experience early sophomore year
  • 99% job placement rate
  • 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate
  • Full-time enrollment required
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA admission
  • Clinical partnerships with top hospitals
  • Fifth year Master's option
  • CCNE accredited program
#8

SUNY College at Plattsburgh

Plattsburgh, NY - Public 4-Year - plattsburgh.edu

Bachelor's - RN-to-B.S. Nursing Program

Online Learning - Visit Website

SUNY College at Plattsburgh offers an online RN-to-B.S. Nursing Program tailored for registered nurses aiming to elevate their careers. This program stands out for its flexibility, allowing nurses with associate degrees or diplomas to deepen their expertise in nursing through a curriculum rich in natural, biological, and behavioral sciences. It's designed to foster professional growth with hands-on learning and exploration of diverse nursing roles. A standout feature is the personalized clinical coordination, enabling students to acquire hands-on experience in local healthcare settings. The program is CCNE accredited, requires a minimum 2.5 GPA, and an unencumbered RN license for admission, making it a competitive yet rewarding choice for advancing in the nursing field.

  • Fully online RN completion program
  • Builds on associate degree nursing
  • Competitive admission process
  • Minimum 2.5 GPA required
  • CCNE fully accredited program
  • Unencumbered RN license needed
  • Additional student expenses apply
  • Flexible learning experiences
  • Professional mentorship available
#9

Saint Peter's University

Jersey City, NJ - Private 4-year - saintpeters.edu

Bachelor's - Online RN to BSN Program

Online Learning - Visit Website

Saint Peter's University's Online RN to BSN Program is tailored for registered nurses aiming to elevate their professional qualifications. This 100% online program stands out for its Jesuit whole-person healthcare approach, ensuring a holistic nursing education. Students benefit from accelerated 8-week terms, allowing for degree completion in as little as 14 to 21 months. The curriculum, spanning 31-36 credit hours, is designed with flexibility in mind, catering to the busy schedules of working nurses. Personalized academic advising and a faculty of experienced nursing professionals support students throughout their journey. Accredited nationally, the program opens doors to various career paths, including roles in education, health policy, and informatics.

  • 100% online program
  • 31-36 credit hours
  • 14-21 months completion
  • Accelerated 8-week terms
  • Jesuit whole-person healthcare approach
  • Personal academic advising
  • Nationally accredited program
  • Experienced nursing faculty
  • Multiple career path opportunities
#10

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL - Public 4-Year - ufl.edu

Bachelor's - RN to BSN

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Florida's online RN to BSN program is tailored for registered nurses aiming to elevate their professional qualifications without sacrificing their current roles. This program stands out for its affordability and flexibility, catering to RNs with an associate degree by offering a part-time, fully online curriculum. Emphasizing leadership and analytical skills, it integrates 90 clinical hours via virtual simulations and community projects, ensuring practical experience alongside theoretical learning. With a 2.8 GPA prerequisite, it's designed for those committed to advancing in diverse healthcare environments or furthering their education in nursing. Recognized for its cost-effectiveness, it's a prime choice for nurses seeking quality and value.

  • Fully online, part-time program
  • Requires active RN license
  • 90 total clinical hours
  • Minimum 2.8 GPA requirement
  • Ranked most affordable online college
*Based on: IPEDS 2023, U.S. Department of Education. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/


How Fast Can I Complete an RN to BSN Degree?

The general requirement for an RN to BSN program is 120 total credit hours – this includes undergraduate hours already completed during the student’s prior associate's degree program.

For most students, an RN to BSN program consists of around 30 credits of upper-level courses. Depending on your attendance schedule and how many transferrable credits you bring to the table, this can take anywhere from two to four consecutive semesters (or 8 to 24 months on average) to complete.

The breakdown is generally:

  • 60 undergraduate credit hours (which is the associate's degree you already have)
  • 30 upper-level BSN courses
  • Most schools will require employment as an RN while enrolled in the program.

Check out some of the fastest RN to BSN program options.

RN to BSN Degree Program Requirements, Affordability, and Curriculum

While specific RN to BSN program requirements will vary by school, some basics most schools will share are:

  • Graduate of an accredited ADN or nursing diploma program
  • Active, unencumbered RN Licensure
  • Criminal background check and/or drug test
  • Completion of general admission criteria, including minimum GPA (usually 2.0 or above) and prerequisite courses
  • Full-time RN employment or equivalency exams – about 30 hours of clinical hours or equivalency exams are required; full-time working RNs will often have this satisfied already but exams can also be utilized; check with your school’s advisor for clarification.

How Affordable are RN to BSN Programs?

RN to BSN program tuition and costs will depend on the city/state and school type and are always subject to change. It’s a good idea to check with each school regarding current tuition rates before enrolling to get a fuller picture of what you can expect. The good news is that RN to BSN programs are usually much cheaper than traditional 4-year BSN programs. On average, RN to BSN costs typically range from $8,000 to $30,000 depending on various factors, including:

  • The type of institution (public vs. private)
  • The program’s delivery format (online vs. in-person)
  • Residency status (in-state vs. out-of-state tuition)
  • Additional mandatory fees such as technology, lab, and textbook costs

What Classes Are Required for an RN to BSN Program?

RN to BSN programs build on knowledge and experience nurses need to help grow in critical thinking, leadership, and clinical skills.

Whether nurses are seeking to advance in their current role or explore other areas, nursing programs are designed to equip nurses with the knowledge and training they need to excel.

RN to BSN program curriculum varies by school, but generally includes courses such as:

  • Community Health Nursing
  • Evidence-Based Practice
  • Statistics for Nurses
  • RN Collaborative Healthcare
  • Nursing Management
  • Healthcare Informatics
  • Nursing Ethics
  • Nursing Leadership
  • Nutrition

Pros vs. Cons of Online RN to BSN Degree Programs

There are many online RN to BSN degree programs available for nurses who want to take the next step in their careers. Online programs have grown in popularity in recent years due to their flexibility and convenience, particularly for working nurses and those with familial obligations.

Not sure if you want to enroll in an online or campus-based degree program? Consider some of the pros and cons of online RN to BSN programs below.

Advantages of Online RN to BSN Programs

    • Flexibility - Online RN to BSN programs often allow students to complete coursework anytime and from any location.

    • Cost-Effectiveness - Online programs often have lower tuition rates and eliminate commuting, parking, and campus housing costs. They are often designed for working RNs so they can continue earning an income while enrolled.

    • Technological Proficiency - Online learning helps you become more proficient with digital tools and technology, which are increasingly important in healthcare settings.

    • Diverse Learning Resources - Online programs provide access to many digital resources, including recorded lectures and interactive forums. They also allow students to network and collaborate with peers from any geographic location.

    • Self-Paced Learning - Many online programs allow you to progress through the material at a pace that suits your learning style and schedule.

Disadvantages of Online RN to BSN Programs

    • Limited Hands-On Experience - While not always required, online programs may offer fewer opportunities for in-person clinical practice. While virtual simulations may be available, they are often not as robust as on-campus simulation labs.

    • Self-Discipline Required - Successful completion of an online program requires strong self-discipline and time management skills to keep up with coursework and deadlines. Those who struggle with procrastination may find it difficult to stay motivated.

    • Technology Dependence - Reliable internet access and up-to-date technology are essential, and technical difficulties can disrupt your studies. If you struggle with navigating technology, there may be a steep learning curve in utilizing digital tools.

    • Less Peer Interaction - Some students may feel isolated without the social interaction of a campus-based program and limited face-to-face time with instructors and classmates.

    • Accreditation and Reputation - Not all online RN to BSN programs are created equal. It’s important to ensure that the program is accredited and has a good reputation to ensure that future employers respect the degree. Learn more about nursing school accreditation.

RN to BSN FAQs

For the registered nurse who enjoys the field of nursing and wishes to either:

    • Stay competitive in the field

    • Learn even more about how to be a great nurse and help people, or

    • Wishes to shift gears to a non-clinical position

The answer is “absolutely!”

Students have many options when it comes to paying for an RN to BSN program, all with their own advantages and drawbacks. Be sure you fully understand your options, and don't be afraid to contact your school's financial aid office for additional information. Common payment methods include:

  • Scholarships and grants - often merit-based and don't need to be paid back, but students must maintain a minimum academic GPA.
  • Loans - Federal or private loans are available, but students must be prepared to pay them back with interest.
  • Cash - If you have the funds upfront or are utilizing help from family or friends.
  • Payment plans - Ask your school for more information on payment plan options.
  • Tuition reimbursement - Ask your current employer if they offer a tuition reimbursement plan, but be mindful of any stipulations (i.e. having to commit to working for them for a certain amount of time after graduating).

Clinical hours are not typically required for the RN to BSN degree program due to the fact that the student would have already completed the required clinical hours in order to become licensed. However, there are RN to BSN programs that do include clinical learning modules to enhance nursing skills. It's always a good idea to check the specific requirements of any RN to BSN program you may be considering to see exactly what the curriculum entails.

Yes! And not only can you work, but most schools require it!

Maintaining full-time employment as a registered nurse during the RN to BSN program is encouraged by most schools. Not only does this satisfy the 30 “clinical hours” requirement of many RN to BSN programs, but it allows for the nurse to take advantage of the employer's tuition reimbursement programs and qualify for certain nursing scholarships and grants.

Many registered nursing positions are waiting to be filled throughout the country’s healthcare facilities. For many years, the nursing community has been pushing to eliminate the Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) in favor of the Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN).

Major reasons for this shift to higher education include:

  • Research to support better patient outcomes by RNs with a BSN
  • Increasing availability of BSN programs and RN to BSN bridge programs
  • Europe, New Zealand, and Australia already require a BSN for entry-level RN jobs
  • Highly complex healthcare environment requires higher education
  • More opportunities for nurses to advance, hold leadership roles, and specialize with a BSN-level degree

Traditional BSN vs. RN to BSN vs. RN to MSN

Find out how an RN to BSN program compares to two other popular nursing degree pathways: the traditional BSN and the RN to MSN.

Traditional BSNRN to BSNRN to MSN
Target AudienceHigh school graduates or transfer studentsRegistered Nurses (RNs) with an Associate’s Degree or DiplomaRNs with an Associate’s Degree or Diploma
Duration4 years (full-time)1-2 years (full-time or part-time)2-3 years (full-time or part-time)
Entry RequirementsHigh school diploma, prerequisites, entrance examsCurrent RN license, Associate’s Degree or Diploma in NursingCurrent RN license, Associate’s Degree or Diploma in Nursing
Curriculum FocusComprehensive nursing education, general education coursesAdvanced nursing courses, leadership, and management, community healthAdvanced nursing courses, leadership, management, specialized tracks (e.g., Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator)
Clinical PracticeExtensive clinical rotations throughout the programLimited clinical practice, often based on current RN workIntensive clinical practice, often includes advanced practice experiences
Mode of DeliveryPopular on-campus but online/hybrid options availableOnline, hybrid, or in-personOnline, hybrid, or in-person
How Affordable?Higher overall cost due to longer durationLower cost due to shorter duration and online optionsHigher cost, but varies with online or hybrid options and specialization
Outcome DegreeBachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Career OpportunitiesEntry-level nursing positions, eligibility for RN licensureAdvanced nursing roles, leadership positions, higher salary potentialAdvanced practice roles (e.g., Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist), leadership positions, higher salary potential
Licensure PreparationPrepares for NCLEX-RNAlready licensed as an RN, no additional licensure requiredPrepares for advanced practice certification exams depending on specialization
FlexibilityLess flexible, fixed schedule and locationHighly flexible, accommodates working RNsFlexible, accommodates working RNs, but more demanding than RN to BSN
Advancement PotentialFoundation for advanced nursing education (e.g., MSN, DNP)Pathway to MSN or other advanced degreesDirect entry into advanced nursing roles and higher education (e.g., DNP, PhD)

Read More: RN to BSN vs. Direct-Entry BSN: Which is Best For You?

Other Popular RN Bridge Programs

Nursing bridge programs exist at many different levels. Learn more about some of the other RN bridge programs students are enrolling in.

nursing students working on laptops in a classroom

LPN to RN

If you're a current Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse (LPN/LVN), there's a specific pathway to help you reach your RN goals. Consider the LPN to RN or the LPN to BSN.

RN to MSN

Are you an ADN or diploma-educated RN and know you want to earn your Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree? Skip the BSN and go right into an RN to MSN program.

RN to NP

Dreaming of becoming a Nurse Practitioner (NP)? If you are already an RN, consider the convenient RN to NP bridge program pathway.

BSN to DNP

If you have a BSN in hand and wish to pursue a doctoral nursing degree, the BSN to DNP pathway may be right for you.