RN to BSN Programs: What School is Right for You?
- 2025 Best Online RN to BSN Programs
- Find RN to BSN Degree Programs Near You
- How Fast Can I Complete an RN to BSN Degree?
- RN to BSN Degree Program Requirements, Affordability, and Curriculum
- Pros vs. Cons of Online RN to BSN Degree Programs
- RN to BSN FAQs
- Traditional BSN vs. RN to BSN vs. RN to MSN
- Other Popular RN Bridge Programs
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
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 offers registered nurses an expedited online education pathway focusing on professional development in modern healthcare. Through a comprehensive curriculum, students explore critical domains including research methodologies, ethical considerations, leadership strategies, and population health dynamics. The accelerated program enables completion within two semesters, accommodating working professionals with asynchronous learning formats. CCNE-accredited, the program strategically prepares nurses to expand their clinical capabilities, enhance critical thinking skills, and pursue advanced nursing roles while maintaining flexible academic scheduling.
- 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 innovative BSN curriculum transforms registered nurses' professional trajectories through a strategically designed online program. By emphasizing professional communication, health policy analysis, and advanced research techniques, the program equips nurses with comprehensive knowledge for complex healthcare environments. Students benefit from personalized learning paths, minimal residency requirements, and a curriculum aligned with contemporary nursing practice standards. The program's flexible structure allows working professionals to seamlessly integrate academic advancement with ongoing clinical responsibilities.
- 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 RN-to-BSN program delivers a comprehensive online educational experience designed for ambitious nursing professionals seeking career advancement. The curriculum integrates advanced nursing competencies, focusing on professional communication, ethical frameworks, health policy interpretation, and leadership development. Students engage with cutting-edge technological and critical thinking approaches, preparing them for evolving healthcare challenges. With an accelerated two-semester format and no transfer credit charges, the program provides an accessible pathway for registered nurses to expand their academic and professional credentials.
- 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
Endicott College
Beverly, MA - Private 4-year - endicott.edu
Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Visit Website
Endicott College's RN to BSN program is tailored for registered nurses seeking to advance their education through an online format. This program stands out for its emphasis on flexibility, allowing working professionals to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments. With a curriculum that integrates theoretical knowledge with practical clinical application, students are prepared for leadership roles and further graduate studies. The program boasts a 99% job placement rate and a 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate, underscoring its effectiveness in equipping nurses for success. CCNE accreditation and clinical partnerships with top hospitals further enhance the program's value, offering students a comprehensive and respected pathway to achieving their BSN.
- 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
University of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, OH - Public 4-Year - uc.edu
Bachelor's - RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online Learning - Visit Website
University of Cincinnati's RN to BSN Online program provides a dynamic educational pathway for licensed RNs seeking career advancement. Strategically designed for working professionals, this innovative program eliminates traditional barriers by offering a fully online curriculum with no clinical requirements. Students can complete nine nursing courses within 9-18 months, enjoying flexibility and affordability with tuition at $564 per credit hour. The CCNE-accredited program supports diverse nursing career trajectories, including Public Health Nursing and Nurse Educator tracks, while emphasizing interprofessional and evidence-based practice approaches.
- 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
Specialized in Public Health Nursing, the University of Cincinnati's RN to BSN Online program empowers registered nurses to expand their professional expertise. This targeted concentration prepares nurses to address community health challenges through an evidence-based, interprofessional curriculum. Students can complete the program in 9-18 months without disrupting their current employment, leveraging fully online coursework and no clinical requirements. The program's comprehensive approach integrates public health principles, policy considerations, and advanced nursing practice strategies.
- 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
University of Cincinnati's Nurse Educator track offers a transformative online RN to BSN program designed for ambitious nurses seeking leadership roles in education. This specialized concentration equips students with advanced pedagogical skills, curriculum development expertise, and comprehensive understanding of nursing education principles. Completing just nine nursing courses within 9-18 months, students benefit from a flexible, CCNE-accredited curriculum that prepares them for potential graduate studies and sophisticated educational leadership positions.
- 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
The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL - Public 4-Year - ua.edu
Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Alabama delivers a strategic online RN to BSN program crafted for working nurses seeking academic advancement. Tailored for registered nurses holding associate degrees or diplomas, this program enables convenient degree completion with just 25 nursing credit hours. Students benefit from a comprehensive curriculum emphasizing critical areas like healthcare informatics, evidence-based practice, and community health. The program's competitive $385 per credit hour rate, combined with year-round enrollment and robust accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, makes it an attractive option for professional development.
- 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
Alabama's RN to BSN/MSN Nurse Executive program provides a specialized accelerated pathway for experienced nurses targeting leadership roles. This innovative online track enables seamless progression from BSN to MSN with concentrated executive training. Students complete their bachelor's degree in four semesters, followed by advanced master's coursework focused on healthcare management strategies. With comprehensive leadership development, the program prepares nurses for high-level administrative positions by blending academic rigor with practical executive healthcare competencies.
- 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
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 seeking to elevate their nursing practice. This program stands out for its affordability and flexibility, catering to RNs with an associate's degree who aim to enhance their analytical and leadership capabilities. With a requirement of 90 clinical hours fulfilled through innovative virtual simulations and community-based projects, students gain practical experience in a flexible online format. Admission requires a minimum GPA of 2.8 and an active RN license, ensuring a cohort of dedicated professionals. Recognized for its cost-effectiveness, this program is a gateway for nurses aspiring to thrive in various healthcare environments and pursue further education.
- Fully online, part-time program
- Requires active RN license
- 90 total clinical hours
- Minimum 2.8 GPA requirement
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 nursing careers. This 30-credit program, priced at $400 per credit, emphasizes health promotion, leadership, and complex healthcare systems, ideal for working professionals. Admission criteria include an associate degree in nursing, current RN licensure, and a minimum 3.0 GPA. The program is designed to enhance clinical skills, improve patient outcomes, and prepare nurses for advanced roles, with multiple start terms and a clinical capstone in the fourth semester.
- 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
Focusing on Geriatric Nursing Leadership, the University of Utah's online RN to BSN program is perfect for nurses seeking to specialize in elder care. This 30-credit program, at $400 per credit, offers a deep dive into geriatric care, cultural competence, and advanced healthcare practices. Designed for working nurses, it requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and current RN licensure. The program not only prepares graduates for roles in case management and clinical leadership but also opens pathways for further advanced nursing degrees, with a flexible online format and multiple start terms.
- 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
Northeastern University
Boston, MA - Private 4-year - northeastern.edu
Bachelor's - RN-to-BSN Program
Online Learning - Visit Website
Northeastern University's RN-to-BSN Program is tailored for registered nurses seeking to elevate their nursing credentials through an online format. This program stands out for its flexibility, offering both part-time and full-time study options to accommodate the schedules of working professionals. Students can expect to engage in over 200 interactive learning activities, designed to enhance critical decision-making skills and prepare them for leadership roles in healthcare. With a curriculum focused on the latest in nursing practice and theory, graduates are well-positioned to meet the increasing demand for baccalaureate-prepared nurses, paving the way for career advancement in a dynamic healthcare environment.
- Online flexible degree completion
- Part-time or full-time options
- Over 200 online learning activities
- Supports career advancement
- Designed for working RNs
Auburn University
Auburn, AL - Public 4-Year - auburn.edu
Bachelor's - Nursing, RN to BSN
Online Learning - Visit Website
Auburn University's RN to BSN online program is tailored for registered nurses seeking to enhance their nursing credentials. This program allows associate degree holders to complete their bachelor's degree in just three semesters, offering a flexible online track. With the potential to earn up to 37 transfer credits, students can fast-track their education. The curriculum focuses on holistic nursing practice, evidence-based care, leadership, and population health, equipping nurses for advanced roles and broader career opportunities. Highlights include a minimum 2.5 GPA requirement, current RN licensure, and a strong emphasis on professional nursing development.
- 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's Concurrent BSN program is designed for registered nurses aiming to advance their healthcare careers. This hybrid program combines online coursework with practical experience, enabling students to complete their degree in three semesters. It emphasizes holistic nursing, evidence-based practice, and leadership skills, preparing nurses for higher responsibilities in the healthcare sector. Applicants must have a minimum 2.5 GPA, current RN licensure, and completed prerequisite courses. The program offers up to 37 transfer credits, facilitating a quicker path to a bachelor's degree and opening doors to enhanced career opportunities.
- 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
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
Tallahassee, FL - Public 4-Year - famu.edu
Bachelor's - RN-BSN Program
Online Learning - Visit Website
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University's RN-BSN Program is tailored for registered nurses seeking to advance their education. This online program offers asynchronous courses, allowing students to balance their studies with professional commitments. With options for full-time or part-time enrollment, the program can be completed in as little as three semesters. It requires 30 credit hours at FAMU, acknowledges prior nursing education, and is nationally accredited. Designed to enhance professional skills, it also prepares students for graduate nursing studies, opening doors to broader career opportunities in healthcare.
- Online asynchronous courses
- Complete in 3 semesters full-time
- Credit for prior nursing education
- Nationally accredited program
- Full or part-time study options
- 30 credit hours at FAMU required
- Prepares for graduate nursing study
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Knoxville, TN - Public 4-Year - utk.edu
Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville's RN to BSN online program empowers registered nurses to elevate their professional credentials through a streamlined, flexible curriculum. Tailored for working healthcare professionals, this innovative program transforms nursing expertise into advanced academic achievement. Students navigate through 34 comprehensive credit hours across engaging eight-week courses, strategically designed to accommodate busy schedules without interrupting current employment. The program's asynchronous format eliminates geographical constraints, enabling nurses nationwide to progress academically while maintaining clinical responsibilities. Rigorous admission standards ensure program quality, requiring a valid RN license, completed associate degree, and minimum 2.0 GPA.
- Fully online nursing program
- Complete in one calendar year
- 34 online credit hours
- Flexible start dates
- No campus visits required
- Minimum 2.0 GPA required
- Part-time and full-time options
- Eight-week course format
We have curated 300+ RN to BSN program listings across the country. See options near you by selecting your state below.
- AL Alabama
- AK Alaska
- AZ Arizona
- AR Arkansas
- CA California
- CO Colorado
- CT Connecticut
- DE Delaware
- DC Washington, DC
- FL Florida
- GA Georgia
- HI Hawaii
- ID Idaho
- IL Illinois
- IN Indiana
- IA Iowa
- KS Kansas
- KY Kentucky
- LA Louisiana
- ME Maine
- MD Maryland
- MA Massachusetts
- MI Michigan
- MN Minnesota
- MS Mississippi
- MO Missouri
- MT Montana
- NE Nebraska
- NV Nevada
- NH New Hampshire
- NJ New Jersey
- NM New Mexico
- NY New York
- NC North Carolina
- ND North Dakota
- OH Ohio
- OK Oklahoma
- OR Oregon
- PA Pennsylvania
- RI Rhode Island
- SC South Carolina
- SD South Dakota
- TN Tennessee
- TX Texas
- UT Utah
- VT Vermont
- VA Virginia
- WA Washington
- WV West Virginia
- WI Wisconsin
- WY Wyoming
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
RELATED: Discover some of the Top Affordable RN to BSN Programs.
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!”
Some great organizations offering nursing scholarships and/or grants include:
- National Institutes of Health (NIH) Undergraduate Scholarship Program (UGSP)
- Nurse Corps Scholarship Program
- Gates Millennium Scholars Program
- Minority Nurse Scholarship List
- HRSA Health Workforce
- NLN Nursing Education Scholarships
- The Foundation of the National Student Nurses' Association Scholarships
- Barbara Rhomberg Excellence in Nursing Scholarship
- Meland Foundation Nursing Scholarship
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 BSN | RN to BSN | RN to MSN | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Target Audience | High school graduates or transfer students | Registered Nurses (RNs) with an Associate’s Degree or Diploma | RNs with an Associate’s Degree or Diploma |
| Duration | 4 years (full-time) | 1-2 years (full-time or part-time) | 2-3 years (full-time or part-time) |
| Entry Requirements | High school diploma, prerequisites, entrance exams | Current RN license, Associate’s Degree or Diploma in Nursing | Current RN license, Associate’s Degree or Diploma in Nursing |
| Curriculum Focus | Comprehensive nursing education, general education courses | Advanced nursing courses, leadership, and management, community health | Advanced nursing courses, leadership, management, specialized tracks (e.g., Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator) |
| Clinical Practice | Extensive clinical rotations throughout the program | Limited clinical practice, often based on current RN work | Intensive clinical practice, often includes advanced practice experiences |
| Mode of Delivery | Popular on-campus but online/hybrid options available | Online, hybrid, or in-person | Online, hybrid, or in-person |
| How Affordable? | Higher overall cost due to longer duration | Lower cost due to shorter duration and online options | Higher cost, but varies with online or hybrid options and specialization |
| Outcome Degree | Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) | Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) | Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) |
| Career Opportunities | Entry-level nursing positions, eligibility for RN licensure | Advanced nursing roles, leadership positions, higher salary potential | Advanced practice roles (e.g., Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist), leadership positions, higher salary potential |
| Licensure Preparation | Prepares for NCLEX-RN | Already licensed as an RN, no additional licensure required | Prepares for advanced practice certification exams depending on specialization |
| Flexibility | Less flexible, fixed schedule and location | Highly flexible, accommodates working RNs | Flexible, accommodates working RNs, but more demanding than RN to BSN |
| Advancement Potential | Foundation for advanced nursing education (e.g., MSN, DNP) | Pathway to MSN or other advanced degrees | Direct 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.
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.