The best online BSN programs are flexible degrees that help working nurses advance their careers with a bachelor’s degree in nursing. Many students who are thinking of studying for a bachelor’s in nursing online are considering doing a nursing bachelor’s online because of the many benefits that studying online offers.
These benefits include a flexible schedule, the ability to study at institutions all over the country, the affordability of many programs, and taking classes at their own pace. Many students who pursue an online BSN are already working full-time as RNs. They may need to pursue an online degree because of their work schedule.
Our Method: Ranking the Top Online Nursing Programs
The editors at Best Health Degrees searched for the best RN to BSN online programs. We found fully online and hybrid programs offered by accredited, reputable colleges and universities in the US. From our initial pool, we ranked programs according to their Tuition Cost, Reputation, Alumni Salary, Graduation Rate, and also Job Placement Rate. We use data from College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Niche to determine these five factors. So, potential students can trust these programs to make a difference in their careers.
1. Indiana University
The best nursing programs focus on helping you accomplish your long-term goal. The RN to BSN online program at Indiana University offers a solution for nurses who want to obtain a bachelor’s degree in nursing.
The fully online program offers two programs for professionals who want a BSN degree. Students can choose the RN to BSN or LPN to BSN programs. Indiana University is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, or ACEN, for the online BSN program.
A key advantage of focusing on a degree at Indiana University is the expectation that you are a working adult. Working nurses may have unusual hours. So, the flexible program makes it easy to keep up with your coursework when you have the time and energy. It allows you to focus on your obligations and then work on your degree.
Degree: RN to BSN or LPN to BSN
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Interested: Click here to learn more about the BSN online nursing programs Indiana.
2. Ohio State University at Columbus
Ohio State University is a top option for the best RN to BSN online programs. OSU maintains a low student-to-teacher ratio. So, students have the individualized attention they need. This fully online program also considers the challenges of working as a nurse and has a flexible schedule.
Ohio State University at Columbus stands apart by focusing on the quality of education. The school sets high student standards and follows an evidence-based approach to nursing. Therefore, students are ready for the challenges of a career as a nurse. And they have the tools to keep up with the needs of their patients. It also commits to flexibility for better student health by allowing you to take classes online full-time or part-time. Ohio State University at Columbus is ranked number 3 in the country by U.S. News and World Report for its online bachelor’s degree programs.
Degree: RN to BSN
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Interested: Click here to learn more about the online BSN program!
3. Penn State World Campus
When you want to focus on obtaining your education in nursing from the top online BSN programs, Penn State World Campus offers a program to assist with your goals. This Penn State BSN online degree program builds on the skills you develop as a registered nurse (RN). So, students gain more advanced skills to advance in their careers. You also learn leadership skills that may allow you to take on more complex roles as a nurse. Penn State also offers an accelerated RN to BSN program so nurses can earn a BSN in a shorter time.
A key difference that sets Pennsylvania State University World Campus apart from other programs is its focus on nursing education. The school allows students to take an online program for their RN to BSN degrees. It also allows students to move into more advanced studies through post-graduate certification and doctoral programs. The commitment to nursing education allows students to consider their options for a long-term career in nursing.
Degree: RN to BSN
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Interested: Click here to learn more about the online BSN program!
4. University of Massachusetts Amherst
The online RN to BSN program at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst helps nurses advance their careers. This degree program teaches students the value of holistic care for patient health. Graduate nurses are prepared to offer long-term care to their patients.
It also recognizes the importance of evaluating cultural differences to provide quality care without causing discomfort for patients. The University of Massachusetts at Amherst allows students to complete their RN to BSN within one year. This option gives nurses the flexibility to work on their degree when it fits their schedule. You have access to classes and technical support 24 hours per day.
The renowned faculty is a key way the University of Massachusetts at Amherst differs from other nursing programs. Students in the online RN to BSN program are taught by the same professors as students in the on-campus classes. That means students have access to qualified professionals who have experience in nursing and bring their experience into the classroom. That allows students to gain a different perspective on their studies.
Degree: RN to BSN
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Interested: Click here to learn more about the online BSN program!
5. University of Utah
When considering the best online BSN programs, you want to look into the University of Utah. The university’s RN to BSN program offers students a flexible schedule. You can complete your degree in two semesters, take classes part-time, and finish your degree in four semesters. The flexibility makes it easy to keep up with your classes while working full-time as a nurse. Furthermore, the University of Utah allows RN to BSN students to adapt their program with a Geriatric Nurse Leadership specialization. It can be applied to a graduate program or can assist with career goals.
The University of Utah differs from other programs by assigning students an Academic Program Manager or Program Director. These individuals assist students with decision-making regarding their current lifestyle and long-term goals. The Program Manager or Program Director is dedicated to helping students accomplish their goals.
Degree: RN to BSN
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Interested: Click here to learn more about BSN online nursing programs Utah.
6. Arizona State University
Arizona State University offers one of the best online BSN programs for a bachelor’s degree in nursing. This RN to BSN program takes an evidence-based approach to nursing and focuses on providing students with the skills they need to handle the concerns of an aging population.
The program is entirely online and gives students innovative classroom experiences from the comfort of home or any location with an Internet connection. Arizona State University students who obtain a BSN have a 92 percent pass rate on the NCLEX on their first attempt.
A key advantage of Arizona State University is the innovative approach taken by professors. They recognize that students need to adapt quickly when working as a nurse, and they allow students to work on their problem-solving skills through unique and creative strategies. U.S. News and World Report states that the school is in the top 11 percent of the most innovative online programs.
Degree: RN to BSN
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Interested: Click here to learn more about the online BSN program!
7. University of Illinois at Chicago
The University of Illinois at Chicago offers one of the best RN to BSN online programs to help with your career goals. The degree program allows you to start at three different times of the year: fall, spring, and summer.
The flexible online program lets you work around your personal schedule or obligations to finish the degree when you have time. The University of Illinois at Chicago has a high graduation rate, with 94% of the students in the online RN to BSN program graduating and moving forward with a nursing career.
Student engagement is a key difference that sets the University of Illinois at Chicago apart from other programs. The university is the number nine school for student engagement in its nursing program. Since the school focuses on engaging students in the curriculum and keeping them interested in their studies, students can enjoy the coursework and learn valuable skills for their careers.
Degree: RN to BSN
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Interested: Click here to learn more about the online BSN program!
8. West Virginia University
West Virginia University offers an RN to BSN program that allows registered nurses with an associate’s degree or a diploma in nursing to work on more advanced studies. The degree program is entirely online for students who have completed their general studies courses. Furthermore, this WVU nursing program ranking scores high on student satisfaction. The program gives students the flexibility to study around their work schedules. Students at West Virginia University who take the online RN to BSN program pay in-state tuition, regardless of their state and location when they start taking the classes.
West Virginia University is a CCNE accredited school that offers nursing students the skills they need to focus on their career goals. The program only requires ten courses for 28 credits, with an additional two credits in an elective course that allows students to qualify for residency when working on their nursing degrees.
Degree: RN to BSN
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Interested: Click here to learn more about the online BSN program!
9. University of Arkansas
The University of Arkansas offers an online RN to BSN program that helps students accomplish their goals as a nurse. The degree program focuses on teaching students critical reasoning skills and analytical skills that improve their ability to offer treatment to their patients. It also ensures that students have a strong foundation in nursing ethics and standards of practice to qualify for leadership roles. The University of Arkansas has been accredited by the CCNE since 2002 for its online RN to BSN program. It provides an opportunity to focus on research in nursing as one of the top public research schools.
A key advantage of the University of Arkansas is the asynchronous courses. Students can apply for the online program when they have time and start taking classes at various times throughout the year. That gives students greater flexibility to complete their online degrees and focus on career goals. It also makes it easier for students to work out solutions for personal or career obligations that may limit their time for their education.
Degree: Online RN to BSN
Interested: Click here to learn more about the online BSN program!
10. University of Central Florida
The University of Central Florida provides an opportunity to obtain your bachelor’s degree in nursing with one of the best RN to BS programs in Florida. This degree program allows students to focus on learning the skills they need for their career goals.
The school recognizes that a bachelor’s degree offers the opportunity to take on a leadership role in nursing and gives students a chance to work toward their degree after evaluating their schedules. The University of Central Florida allows students to get a head start in more advanced studies by substituting up to nine credit hours of graduate course work. That helps students who plan to move into a master’s or doctoral program.
A key advantage of obtaining a BSN from the University of Central Florida is the school’s approach to learning. The school focuses on taking a scientific approach to the nursing process and gives students the chance to learn scientific skills that give them valuable skills for their careers. Students will understand the latest scientific studies and how they can apply the scientific method to their work as a nurse.
Degree: RN to BSN
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Interested: Click here to learn more about one of the best online BSN programs Florida.
11. Drexel University
The RN to BSN program at Drexel University prepares you to focus on your career and challenge tradition as it applies to nurses. The degree program takes an evidence-based approach to nursing and encourages students to gain experience in nursing. The curriculum stands out by taking an action-focused approach that teaches students to take action and develop practical skills that improve patient outcomes. Drexel University also offers an accelerated online program for nursing students. You can complete your RN to BSN in 12 months.
A key advantage of obtaining a degree from Drexel University is the focus on nursing performance. Students learn to think critically about a situation and take action to improve their patient’s health outcomes. The focus on evidence and critical thinking help students learn the leadership skills they need to work in more advanced roles in their career.
Degree: RN to BSN online nursing degree
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Interested: Click here to learn more about the online BSN program!
12. University of St. Francis (IN)
The University of St. Francis in Indiana offers an RN to BSN program online that prepares students for the rigors of working as a nurse. The degree program focuses on leadership immersion and teaches students to apply findings from research to their patient’s health.
The evidence-based approach ensures that students are prepared for the challenges of working in a modern medical facility. The University of St. Francis in Indiana allows students to take an accelerated program and finish their degree in 12 months or take a slower approach and finish the degree in 24 months.
The University of St. Francis stands out from other programs by following Franciscan Values as it applies to nursing. It takes a caring and service approach to help patients. The focus on compassion and kindness allows nurses to give their patients the attention they need when facing a challenge with their physical health. Students learn to take a patient-centered approach to healing that allows them to work with patients’ wishes and families for better health outcomes.
Degree: RN to BSN
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Interested: Click here to learn more about this RN to BSN online nursing program!
13. Florida International University
The RN to BSN program at Florida International University prepares students for more advanced roles in nursing. The degree program focuses on relevant skills based on the modern medical environment. Nurses prepare for the challenges of their careers through a fully online program that works around their current work schedule.
Florida International University stands out by focusing on nurse leadership and cultural understanding. The program recognizes that nurses may interact with people from different cultures and backgrounds, so it strives to teach students to address potential challenges that may arise when cultural concerns impact patient health. Florida International University was ranked number three by Value Colleges for its online programs.
Degree: RN to BSN
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Interested: Click here to learn more about this online BSN degree program!
14. The University of Alabama at Birmingham
The online RN to BSN program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham allows students to obtain a bachelor’s degree in nursing, making it easy for students to focus on their career goals and obtain an education when it fits their schedule. It gives students a flexible solution to help with personal goals while working full-time. The University of Alabama at Birmingham offers students an option to focus on more advanced studies with the alternate pathway to obtain a master’s degree.
The program’s flexibility is key to the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Students can complete their bachelor’s degree in two semesters if they focus on full-time studies. They can also slow down and take classes part-time if they have limited time for a degree.
Degree: RN to BSN
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Interested: Click here to learn more about this online BSN degree program!
15. University of Louisville
The fully online RN to BSN program at the University of Louisville prepares students for the challenges of working as a nurse. The degree program offers a support system with access to professional assistance when working toward a degree. It also recognizes that students may benefit from focused classes and allows students to take one or more classes to fit their own situation.
A key difference that sets the University of Louisville apart is the eight-week courses. Each class is eight weeks long, meaning students can complete their degree at an accelerated pace or at a slower pace with focused instruction. The University of Louisville has small class sizes that ensure that students have personal attention from professors.
Degree: RN to BSN
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Interested: Click here to learn more about the online BSN program!
What is an RN to BSN?
This is a Bridge Program for nurses with a diploma or associate degree. It is the most popular Bridge Program for nurses. These short RN to BSN programs use prior education to shave time off the BSN degree. Prospective students must have a nursing degree from a certificate or associate program, have passed the RN exam, and have nursing work experience. However, there are also LPN-to-BSN bridge programs available.
| Bridge Program | Nursing License | Starting Education | Degree Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| RN to BSN | RN license | 2 yr ADN,ASN | BSN |
| LPN to BSN | LPN or LVN license | 1 year diploma | BSN |
| RN to MSN | RN license | 2 yr ADN,ASN | MSN |
| LPN to MSN | LPN or LVN license | 1 year diploma | MSN |
What Are the Advantages of an Online BSN Program?
One of the most significant benefits of online learning for many students is the flexible schedule offered by online classes. Traditional on-campus classes require that students be at a specific location at a particular time, which can be difficult or even impossible for working students. Students already working in healthcare may have long hours that leave pursuing a nursing bachelor’s online as their only option to advance their educations.
Another huge pro of online education is the opportunity to take BSN online nursing courses at schools that would be out of commuting distance. Taking a traditional degree at out-of-state colleges would be impossible without moving. When taking online classes, BSN online nursing students can attend a prestigious nursing school or find a specialized program not offered by schools in their area.
Will Employers Trust an Online BSN?
In the early days of online education, taking classes or doing a degree this way was looked down upon. This was mostly due to the proliferation of unaccredited online schools charging students for essentially worthless degrees. However, the landscape of online education has changed dramatically in recent years.
Today, many reputable universities offer online programs accredited in the same way as their traditional programs. Pretty much every major university seems to have various degrees that can be completed completely online. Even smaller universities have perfectly respectable online programs.
The most critical factor in higher education reputation is accreditation. So, check to ensure a school or university is regionally accredited. If they are, their online degrees are just as legitimate as their traditional degrees. In addition to the school accreditation, the program you attend should also have accreditation.
What to Look for in Nursing Program Accreditation
When it comes to nursing specifically, there is another type of accreditation beyond regional accreditation. There are two accrediting bodies for nursing programs. Students should look for RN to BSN online programs accredited by CCNE and ACEN.
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Accredited schools have the approval of one of these leading organizations of nurses. Employers prefer to hire nurses with a degree from an accredited school. So, if you attend an accredited nursing program, your employer will know you are prepared for the job.
What Is the Best Accreditation for Online Nursing Schools?
Prospective students should look for online nursing programs accredited by ACEN or CCNE and a regional accreditation association. A list of accredited nursing schools can be found on their websites. This list includes schools with accredited RN to BSN online programs and more. Another way to identify accredited nursing programs is at the Council for Higher Education Accreditation website.
What Kinds of Specializations are Available in an Online BSN Program?
Students who already know what types of nurse specializations interest them may be concerned that online bachelor of science nursing programs won’t offer their chosen specialization. Accredited online BSN programs are generally geared toward working RNs or ADNs. Clinical experience is always required for all nursing degrees, and online nursing students can usually get this experience through their job.
After completing a bachelor’s degree program, a nurse may choose to specialize. There are many different fields they can choose within the profession. Below is a list of some of the options.
- Gastroenterology Nursing
- Cardiac Care Nursing
- Holistic Nursing
- Medical-surgical Nursing
- Nursing Research
- Midwifery Nursing
- Public Health Nursing
- Community Health Nursing
- Neuroscience Nursing
- Nursing Informatics
- Obstetrical Nursing
- Occupational Health Nursing
- Mental Health Nursing
- Orthopedic Nursing
How Do You Get Specialized in Nursing?
Simply put, it takes both experience and education. Online nursing students can pursue one of the different nursing specialties in demand. And the school can organize clinical experience in this specialization. It may be trickier to get the specialization you want in online bachelor of science programs than in traditional nursing programs.
What Nursing Specializations are In-Demand?
Nursing specialties in demand include NICU, ER, and pediatric intensive care. These may be a little harder to get into through an online program. However, other popular specialties like nursing leadership, community health, and gerontological medicine are more common types of nurse specializations for online programs. Students may be able to get into their desired specialization by pursuing different types of nursing degrees.
Earning a Master’s or MSN
Many online BSN programs offer students the opportunity to progress to MSN programs. Some nursing specialties, such as nurse anesthetist, require a nurse to complete a master’s degree to enter that field. This applies to both an online degree and a traditional degree. This is also true of midwife nurses, who specialize in delivering babies.
Students can even complete advanced nursing degrees, like a DPN, online at some schools. Many schools now offer online graduate nursing programs. Reputable accredited schools have online MSN degrees, graduate certificates, and online DPN programs. Many experienced nurses who want to go into the management of nurses follow this path. In graduate programs, students complete core courses and upper level nursing courses. In addition, most require clinical placements.