Nurses work hard to demonstrate innovation and communication in their day-to-day duties and interactions with doctors, fellow nurses, and patients. With professional excellence as their guide, many nurses look to the bachelor’s level of study in order to continue their professional development in the hopes of creating a healthier future for individuals and communities. For current registered nurses without a bachelor’s degree, an RN to BSN program is perfect.

2025 Best Online RN to BSN Programs in Ohio

Looking for the best online RN to BSN programs in Ohio? RegisteredNursing.org has you covered with rankings that highlight top choices for nurses aiming to advance their careers. Our list focuses on programs that offer flexibility, quality education, and support for working professionals. Whether you're starting or moving up, these programs can help you reach your goals. Find out which schools made the cut and why they stand out. Learn more about how we rank these programs here.

#1

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-Main Campus offers an RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program entirely online, catering to licensed RNs aiming to elevate their qualifications without pausing their careers. This program stands out for its affordability, with tuition locked at $564 per credit hour for four years, and its flexibility, allowing completion in 9-18 months. With no clinical requirements and just nine nursing courses, it's designed for efficiency. The program is CCNE accredited and offers six start dates annually, plus options like Public Health Nursing and Nurse Educator tracks, ensuring a tailored educational experience.

  • 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

Focusing on Public Health Nursing, the University of Cincinnati-Main Campus's RN to BSN online program equips nurses with specialized knowledge to address community health challenges. This 100% online program requires no clinicals, making it ideal for working professionals. Students can graduate in 9-18 months, benefiting from an evidence-based, interprofessional curriculum. With six start dates a year and CCNE accreditation, it offers a seamless transition to graduate studies. The program's affordability and flexibility, including easy credit transfer, make it a standout choice for advancing in public health nursing.

  • 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

Tailored for aspiring nurse educators, the University of Cincinnati-Main Campus's online RN to BSN program combines flexibility with a focused curriculum. This program allows RNs to complete their bachelor's in as little as nine months, with no clinical requirements and only nine nursing courses. Accredited by CCNE, it prepares nurses for leadership and graduate studies through an evidence-based, interprofessional approach. With part-time and full-time options, six annual start dates, and tuition guaranteed for four years at $564 per credit hour, it's designed for those looking to transition into educational roles within nursing.

  • 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 ˅
#2

Ohio State University-Main Campus

Columbus, OH - Public 4-Year - osu.edu

Bachelor's - RN to BSN

Online Learning - Visit Website

Ohio State University-Main Campus offers a distinguished online RN to BSN program tailored for registered nurses aiming to enhance their clinical and leadership skills. This program stands out by eliminating textbook costs for nursing courses, providing a cost-effective education solution. With its fully online format, students enjoy the flexibility to balance studies with professional commitments. The curriculum is designed to foster evidence-based practice, critical thinking, and a comprehensive understanding of patient care in various settings. Recognized as the #5 online bachelor's program, it supports career advancement through accredited coursework, low student-to-instructor ratios, and multiple start dates for convenience.

  • Ranked #5 online bachelor's program
  • No textbook costs for nursing courses
  • Fully online flexible program
  • Accredited nursing program
  • Emphasizes evidence-based practice
  • Supports professional career advancement
  • Low student-to-instructor ratios
  • Multiple enrollment start dates
#3

Mercy College of Ohio

Toledo, OH - Private 4-year - mercycollege.edu

Bachelor's - RN-BSN Nursing Online

Online Learning - Visit Website

Mercy College of Ohio offers an RN-BSN Nursing Online program tailored for registered nurses aiming to elevate their qualifications. This 100% online program stands out for its flexibility, enabling students to balance work and studies effectively. Full-time students can complete the program in just one year, a fast track to advancing their nursing careers. The curriculum emphasizes leadership, research, and patient-centered care, preparing graduates for diverse healthcare environments. With a focus on Christian values, the program also offers an MSN fast track option for those looking to further their education. Admission requires an active RN license and a minimum 2.0 GPA, with generous transfer credit opportunities.

  • 100% Online Nursing Courses
  • Flexible Start Times
  • One-Year Full-Time Completion
  • 32-39 Transfer Credits
  • MSN Fast Track Option
  • Rolling Admissions
  • Required Active RN License
  • Minimum 2.0 GPA
  • Accredited Nursing Program
  • Christian Values Integration
#4

Bowling Green State University-Main Campus

Bowling Green, OH - Public 4-Year - bgsu.edu

Bachelor's - RN to BSN

Online Learning - Visit Website

Bowling Green State University-Main Campus offers an exceptional online RN to BSN program tailored for registered nurses seeking career advancement without sacrificing their current employment. This 100% online program stands out for its flexibility, featuring seven-week asynchronous courses that can be completed in as few as three semesters. With three annual start dates, students can begin their journey at a time that suits them best. The 30-credit hour curriculum is designed to enhance clinical skills, leadership qualities, and understanding of healthcare policy and evidence-based practice. Notably, the program acknowledges previous nursing experience by offering credits, and is taught by faculty with graduate degrees, all within a CCNE accredited framework.

  • 100% online program
  • Three annual start dates
  • Seven-week course format
  • 30 credit hour completion
  • Credits for previous nursing experience
  • Faculty with graduate degrees
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Expand nursing career opportunities
  • Asynchronous class scheduling
#5

Ohio University-Main Campus

Athens, OH - Public 4-Year - ohio.edu

Bachelor's - RN to BSN

Online Learning - Visit Website

Ohio University-Main Campus offers an online RN to BSN program tailored for registered nurses seeking career advancement without sacrificing their current roles. This program stands out for its affordability, with total costs under $10,000, and the ability to complete it in just one year. Featuring 9 nursing courses, the curriculum is designed for flexibility, offering 5-week classes and 8 annual start dates. Students benefit from the prestige of a nationally ranked nursing school, alongside comprehensive online support services. Admission criteria include an active RN license, an associate degree in nursing, and a minimum 2.0 GPA. Highlights include 100% online coursework, transfer credit acceptance, and a 120-credit program structure.

  • 100% Online Degree
  • Affordable Under $10,000
  • Completion in 1 Year
  • 8 Annual Start Dates
  • Flexible 5-Week Classes
  • 120 Total Credit Program
  • Nationally Ranked Nursing School
  • Transfer Credit Friendly
  • Multiple Online Support Services

Fast & Affordable Program Options

If you’re looking for a cheap and easy way to get your bachelor’s degree in nursing, there really isn’t a better choice than an RN to BSN. This accelerated track is available and most nursing schools and builds on a nursing existing education and experience to deliver a much shorter (and more affordable) education.

Fastest Online RN to BSN Degree Options

If you’re like most nurses, you have little room in your schedule for yourself not to mention going back to school. However, with an RN to BSN program, you usually aren’t going to need to be in school for more than two years, and you’ll often have the opportunity to work at your own place through the use of online learning. This creates a timely and flexible learning environment perfect for nurses who are working full-time.

SchoolDegree NameLength
Ohio UniversityOnline RN to BSN1 Year
Ohio State UniversityRN to BSN1 Year

Learn more about the Quickest RN to BSN Programs.

Do 6-month RN to BSN Programs Exist?

They do, though you likely won’t find them available in Ohio. To be eligible for a 6-month RN to BSN program, you need to have a significant number of credits available for transfer, and most schools have a limit on the amount you are allowed to transfer. That doesn’t mean that you won’t be able to search for these options out of state, however.

Cheapest Online RN to BSN Options

For some students, the benefit of saving money on their education is much more attractive than the benefit of a timely RN to BSN program. Spending less time in the classroom means that your financial obligation to your chosen program will be relatively small compared to a traditional 4-year BSN program. Furthermore, the affordability of an RN to BSN program may be further compounded by residency status (depending on the school) or if you receive your education primarily online. Below are a few of the most affordable options in Ohio.

SchoolDegree NameTuition Cost
University of CincinnatiOnline RN to BSN$3,375 per year (Resident)

$3,632 per year (Online)

$6,991 per year (Non-Resident)

Shawnee State UniversityOnline RN to BSN$10,448 per year (Resident)

$16,928 per year (Non-Resident)

Learn more about Affordable RN to BSN Degrees.

Admissions Requirements for Accredited RN to BSN Programs

Throughout the state, there is some variance in the requirements for RN to BSN programs; each university decides what admissions requirements will ensure that the best nurses can gain entry to the program and earn their undergraduate degrees. Nurses can expect to encounter the following types of requirements; we encourage you to check directly with your accredited school of choice for school-specific admission criteria.

  • Proof of residence in a state that has an articulation agreement with Ohio’s university network
  • Associate’s Degree in Nursing from a school that is approved by the Ohio State Board of Nursing
  • Proof of cumulative GPA of 2.0+
  • Valid U.S. RN license without encumbrances
  • Pre-requisite nursing and arts courses have been met
  • Provide proof of current immunizations

Classes & Courses: What is the Curriculum Like?

Ashland University simplifies the process of undertaking the process of moving from RN to BSN. With dedicated faculty, some of whom have international acclaim, students advance at a flexible pace through course material such as:

  • Introduction to Informatics in Healthcare
  • Genetics and Healthcare
  • Research & Evidence-Based Practice
  • Health Care Systems
  • Community & Public Health
  • Health Care Systems
  • Legal, Ethical & Political Perspectives

27 credit hours in nursing are required, in addition to as many art courses as an individual needs in order to make up the entire BSN curriculum at Ashland.

2025 List of RN to BSN Programs in Ohio

Take a look at Ohios best accredited RN to BSN programs in the listings below.

Find RN to BSN Programs By City:

Jump to City:

Akron, OH

University of Akron Main Campus

  • Bachelor's - Nursing, RN/BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online nursing program
    • Can complete in one year
    • Most affordable in Ohio
    • Expert faculty with real-world expertise
    • Accredited by Higher Learning Commission
    • Customized courses for adult learners
    • Pathway to graduate nursing degrees
    • Flexible part-time options available

Ashland, OH

Ashland University

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN Post-licensure Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online RN to BSN program
    • Designed for licensed nurses
    • Flexible curriculum
    • Career advancement opportunity
    • Builds on existing nursing knowledge

Athens, OH

Ohio University-Main Campus

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Degree
    • Affordable Under $10,000
    • Completion in 1 Year
    • 8 Annual Start Dates
    • Flexible 5-Week Classes
    • 120 Total Credit Program
    • Nationally Ranked Nursing School
    • Transfer Credit Friendly

Bowling Green, OH

Bowling Green State University-Main Campus

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online program
    • Three annual start dates
    • Seven-week course format
    • 30 credit hour completion
    • Credits for previous nursing experience
    • Faculty with graduate degrees
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Expand nursing career opportunities

Burton, OH

Kent State University at Geauga

  • Bachelor's - Nursing for Registered Nurses (RN to BSN)

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online RN to BSN format
    • CCNE Accredited program
    • Multiple campus locations
    • Career advancement focused
    • Preparation for graduate studies

Cincinnati, OH

Cincinnati State Technical and Community College

  • Bachelor's - Nursing RN-to-BSN Completion Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • First community college BSN program
    • In-person RN-to-BSN format
    • Complete nursing career pathway
    • Addresses local nursing shortage
    • No transfer requirements necessary

The Christ College of Nursing and Health Sciences

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online program.
    • Flexible full and part-time options.
    • No mandatory login times.
    • Affordable tuition rates.
    • Reputation for nursing excellence.
    • Designed for working nurses.
    • Enhance nursing credentials.
    • Prepares for leadership roles.

University of Cincinnati-Main Campus

  • Bachelor's - RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Nurse Educator - Online Learning - Website

    • 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
  • Bachelor's - RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Public Health Nursing - Online Learning - Website

    • 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
  • Bachelor's - RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online Learning - Website

    • 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

Cleveland, OH

Cleveland State University

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • Complete in three semesters
    • Fully online format
    • $240 in-state credit hour
    • 95% graduation rate
    • Prepares for MSN program
    • Flexible scheduling
    • Career advancement focused
    • Professional writing courses

Columbus, OH

Capital University

  • Bachelor's - BSN Completion Program

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Flexible hybrid learning format
    • Designed for working RNs
    • Requires 2.5 minimum GPA
    • Current RN licensure needed
    • Multicultural nursing focus
    • Research and leadership courses
    • Ohio Nursing Articulation Model participant

Franklin University

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Complete in 12 months online
    • Transfer up to 90 credits
    • $298 per credit hour
    • CCNE Accredited Program
    • No textbook purchase required
    • Designed for working RNs
    • 100% online coursework
    • 120 total credit hours

Ohio State University-Main Campus

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Ranked #5 online bachelor's program
    • No textbook costs for nursing courses
    • Fully online flexible program
    • Accredited nursing program
    • Emphasizes evidence-based practice
    • Supports professional career advancement
    • Low student-to-instructor ratios
    • Multiple enrollment start dates

Dayton, OH

Sinclair Community College

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing Completion

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • RN to BSN completion degree
    • 120-121 total credit hours
    • Hybrid program format
    • Develops nursing leadership skills
    • Evidence-based practice focus
    • Cultural competency training
    • Addresses regional nursing shortage
    • Nationally accredited program

Huron, OH

Bowling Green State University-Firelands

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online program
    • 7-week asynchronous courses
    • Three annual start dates
    • Complete in three semesters
    • Earn 16-56 transfer credits
    • Total 122 credit hours to graduate
    • 2.0 minimum GPA requirement
    • CCNE accredited program

Lima, OH

James A. Rhodes State College

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN Completion Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online accelerated program
    • Completed in one year
    • 8-week course format
    • Professional leadership focus
    • Evidence-based practice integration
    • Unencumbered RN license required
    • Service area preference
    • ACEN candidate program

Mansfield, OH

North Central State College

  • Bachelor's - Baccalaureate of Science Nursing, BS

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Four-semester hybrid program
    • Professional nursing skill development
    • Clinical rotation in current workplace
    • Total credit hours: 122-123
    • Focuses on leadership and communication
    • Accreditation in process by ACEN
    • Servant leadership framework
    • Evidence-based practice emphasis

Marietta, OH

Washington State Community College

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Campus Based - Website

    • Designed for RNs with diploma/ADN
    • Focuses on nursing leadership skills
    • Emphasizes community health knowledge
    • Supports career advancement opportunities
    • Prepares for graduate nursing degrees

Marion, OH

Marion Technical College

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Program
    • 30 Credit Hours Required
    • Complete in 3 Semesters
    • Minimum 2.5 GPA
    • Current RN License Needed
    • Articulation Agreements Available
    • Multiple Career Pathways
    • Five-Year Completion Window

New Concord, OH

Muskingum University

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online RN to BSN program
    • Minimum 2.5 GPA required
    • 23 nursing credit hours
    • Active RN license needed
    • 7 specialized nursing courses
    • Additional non-nursing credits

Newark, OH

Central Ohio Technical College

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Program
    • Two-Year Completion Timeline
    • No Campus Attendance Required
    • Flexible Eight-Week Courses
    • Low Tuition Rates
    • RN License Required
    • Capstone Practicum Option
    • ACEN Accreditation Candidacy

Pepper Pike, OH

Ursuline College

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN Online Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online flexible format
    • Nine annual start dates
    • Competitive $360/credit hour
    • Up to 40 transfer credits
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Personalized faculty support
    • Career advancement preparation

Portsmouth, OH

Shawnee State University

  • Bachelor's - RN-BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online flexible program
    • ACEN accredited curriculum
    • Small class sizes
    • Experienced nurse educators
    • Top 4 affordable nursing degree

Saint Clairsville, OH

Ohio University-Eastern Campus

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online degree completion program
    • For licensed RNs
    • Flexible learning format
    • Career advancement pathway
    • Comprehensive nursing curriculum

Springfield, OH

Wittenberg University

  • Bachelor's - RN-BSN Degree Completion

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program flexibility.
    • 24 semester hours required.
    • Focus on nursing leadership.
    • Cultural competence in healthcare.
    • Health assessment skills.
    • Evidence-based practice research.
    • Community health nursing concepts.
    • Health care informatics.

Tiffin, OH

Heidelberg University

  • Bachelor's - RN-BSN Pathway

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online flexible program
    • Up to 90 transferable credits
    • 8 online baccalaureate nursing courses
    • Rolling admissions available
    • No clinical presence required
    • 27 nursing credits in escrow
    • Two clinical component courses
    • Designed for working professionals

Toledo, OH

Mercy College of Ohio

  • Bachelor's - RN-BSN Nursing Online

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Nursing Courses
    • Flexible Start Times
    • One-Year Full-Time Completion
    • 32-39 Transfer Credits
    • MSN Fast Track Option
    • Rolling Admissions
    • Required Active RN License
    • Minimum 2.0 GPA

University of Toledo

  • Bachelor's - RN-B.S.N.

    Online Learning - Website

    • 120 Total Credits
    • 100% Online Program
    • Competency-Based Education
    • Flexible Full/Part-time Options
    • Asynchronous Class Instruction
    • National Accreditation
    • Quality Matters Certified Courses
    • Transfer Agreements Available

Warren, OH

Kent State University at Trumbull

  • Bachelor's - Nursing for Registered Nurses (RN to BSN)

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online RN to BSN program
    • 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio
    • State-of-the-art nursing lab
    • CCNE Accredited Program
    • Clinical experiences at local hospitals
    • Multiple campus location options
    • Competitive nursing sequence

Youngstown, OH

Youngstown State University

  • Bachelor's - RN-BSN Online Completion

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online, accelerated 10-month program
    • 28 total credit hours
    • $7,700 in-state tuition
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Designed for working nurses
    • Current RN license required
    • Minimum 2.0 GPA needed
    • Multiple start dates available