![5 Affordable RN to BSN Programs [Updated 2025]](https://www.registerednursing.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/RN-Affordable-RN-to-BSN-Programs-768x512.jpg)
Registered nurses (RNs) who are looking to get their Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing often face the challenge of finding high-quality educational programs that are also affordable. With tuition and living expenses rising, finding an RN to BSN program that offers both quality education and reasonable costs can significantly impact a student’s future. This article will explore some of the most affordable online RN to BSN programs in the United States for 2025, highlighting institutions that provide excellent nursing education without breaking the bank.
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Finding the right online RN to BSN program that fits your budget can be a challenge, but registerednursing.org has done the research for you. We've ranked the top affordable online RN to BSN programs to help you advance your nursing career without breaking the bank. Online programs offer the flexibility to balance work, life, and studies, making distance learning a smart choice for busy nurses. Whether you're looking for virtual classrooms or remote access to coursework, these programs provide quality education at a price you can afford. Discover which programs made our list and start your journey to a BSN today. Learn more about how we rank these programs. Lake Worth, FL - Public 4-Year - palmbeachstate.edu Online & Campus Based - Visit Website Palm Beach State College's RN to BSN program is a hybrid model that blends online coursework with in-person learning, ideal for working nurses seeking to advance their careers. Accredited by ACEN, it emphasizes evidence-based nursing and leadership skills without requiring entrance exams. The program is affordable, with financial aid options available, making it accessible for nurses aiming for management roles or further graduate studies. Concentration: Computed Tomography (CT) - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website Specializing in Computed Tomography (CT), this online RN to BSN program at Palm Beach State College is tailored for registered technologists looking to advance in medical imaging. With a focus on preparing for specialized credentialing exams, the program offers flexibility and affordability at approximately $6,900 for Florida residents, requiring a 2.5 GPA and a registered technologist credential for admission. Concentration: Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website Focused on leadership, Palm Beach State College's fully online RN to BSN program is designed for nurses aiming for management positions or graduate nursing programs. It emphasizes evidence-based care and research skills, with no entrance exams required. The program is accredited by ACEN and offers financial aid, providing an affordable pathway for career advancement in nursing leadership. Salt Lake City, UT - Public 4-Year - utah.edu Online Learning - Visit Website The University of Utah offers an affordable and flexible online RN to BSN program, ideal for working nurses aiming to advance their careers. With a tuition of $400 per credit, the program is designed to be accessible without compromising on quality. It requires 30 credits, focusing on health promotion, leadership, and complex healthcare systems, and does not require an ACT or SAT for admission. The program is fully online, catering to the needs of busy professionals, and includes a clinical capstone in the fourth semester. A minimum 3.0 GPA and current RN licensure are required, making it a practical choice for career advancement. Concentration: Geriatric Nursing Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website Specializing in Geriatric Nursing Leadership, the University of Utah's online RN to BSN program is tailored for nurses seeking to enhance their expertise in elder care. At $400 per credit, the program is not only affordable but also flexible, allowing students to balance work and study. The 30-credit curriculum emphasizes cultural competence and leadership in geriatric care, preparing graduates for roles in case management and clinical leadership. Admission does not require an ACT or SAT, but a minimum 3.0 GPA and current RN licensure are necessary. This program is perfect for those looking to specialize and advance in the nursing field. Huntington, WV - Public 4-Year - marshall.edu Online Learning - Visit Website Marshall University offers an affordable online RN to BSN program tailored for registered nurses seeking to advance their education without sacrificing their professional commitments. This program stands out for its flexibility, featuring 7-week block scheduling that enables students to graduate in as little as two semesters. With a cost of $367.75 per credit hour and a total of 28 credit hours required, it's a cost-effective option for nurses aiming to enhance their clinical expertise and leadership skills. The curriculum focuses on evidence-based practice and professional development, preparing graduates for higher-level nursing roles. No ACT or SAT is required for admission, making it accessible to all qualified RNs. Marshall's military-friendly policies further underscore its commitment to affordable, quality education. Richmond, KY - Public 4-Year - eku.edu Online Learning - Visit Website Eastern Kentucky University's online RN to BSN program stands out for its affordability and flexibility, making it an excellent choice for working nurses seeking to advance their careers without sacrificing their current job. With a tuition rate of $489 per credit hour and the added benefit of free textbooks, the program is designed to be financially accessible. The accelerated 12-month completion time, requiring only 25 nursing credit hours, allows students to quickly achieve their BSN. The curriculum emphasizes health promotion, disease prevention, and professional development, preparing graduates for leadership roles in various healthcare settings. Notably, the program does not require campus visits, offering courses entirely online with flexible scheduling. It's also nationally accredited and has been ranked as the best online RN-BSN program in Kentucky, further enhancing its appeal to prospective students. The Woodlands, TX - Public 4-Year - lonestar.edu Online & Campus Based - Visit Website Lone Star College System offers an affordable and flexible RN-to-BSN program designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their careers. This hybrid program combines online coursework with self-scheduled clinical experiences, allowing students to balance their studies with professional commitments. With no application fee and financial aid available, it's an economical choice for nurses. The program, accredited by ACEN, emphasizes evidence-based practice, healthcare technology, and leadership, preparing graduates for diverse healthcare settings. Admission requires a 2.25 GPA and current RN licensure, but no ACT or SAT is needed. Its affordability and flexibility make it ideal for working nurses looking to enhance their skills and career opportunities.2025 Top Affordable RN to BSN Programs
Palm Beach State College
Bachelor's - Registered Nursing (R.N.) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.)
Bachelor's - Registered Nursing (R.N.) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.)
Bachelor's - Registered Nursing (R.N.) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.)
University of Utah
Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Bachelor's - RN to BSN Geriatric Nursing Leadership
Marshall University
Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Eastern Kentucky University
Bachelor's - RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Lone Star College System
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-to-BSN)
Online RN to BSN Programs – A Great Option for Frugal Students
One option that can be considered right off the bat to save money is an online RN to BSN program. Online options can often be cheaper when compared to their on-campus counterparts. Here are a few reasons why:
Lower Tuition – Many online RN to BSN programs often lower tuition or per-credit rates for online coursework. Even if they don’t, many schools charge the same tuition for in-state and out-of-state online students, giving them many more feasible program options to consider.
Commute Savings – Online RN to BSN programs eliminate the costly expenses associated with commuting to campus, including gas, car wear and tear, parking permits, public transportation costs, and more. In addition, students don’t have to worry about relocation or moving expenses if they don’t live within a reasonable distance from campus.
Flexible Scheduling – With asynchronous courses and flexible scheduling, many students can fit their coursework around their work schedules, helping them maintain their income while they complete their RN to BSN studies.
Additional Money-Saving Strategies for RN to BSN Students
Beyond choosing an affordable program, savvy RN to BSN students can employ several strategies to minimize their educational expenses. Many programs offer credit for prior learning experiences, allowing students to receive academic credit for their professional nursing experience, continuing education courses, and certifications. This credit recognition can reduce the total number of courses required, directly lowering tuition costs. Students should also explore competency-based education options, where they can accelerate through material they already know, potentially completing their degree in less time and for less money.
Financial aid opportunities specifically designed for working nurses include employer tuition assistance programs, nursing-specific scholarships from professional organizations, and state-funded workforce development grants. Many students overlook these targeted funding sources, focusing only on traditional federal aid. Additionally, some programs offer payment plans that allow students to spread tuition costs over multiple months without interest, making the financial burden more manageable for working professionals. Students should also consider the tax benefits of educational expenses, as tuition and fees may be deductible, and employer tuition reimbursement up to $5,250 annually is typically tax-free.
RN to BSN Program Tuition Comparison
By Institution Type and Delivery Method
Institution Type | Delivery Format | Average Cost Range | Cost Per Credit Hour | Total Program Cost | Program Length |
Public Universities | Online | $8,000 – $15,000 | $300 – $500 | $9,000 – $18,000 | 18-24 months |
Public Universities | Traditional/Hybrid | $10,000 – $18,000 | $350 – $600 | $12,000 – $20,000 | 18-24 months |
Private Universities | Online | $15,000 – $35,000 | $500 – $1,200 | $18,000 – $40,000 | 12-24 months |
Private Universities | Traditional/Hybrid | $18,000 – $40,000 | $600 – $1,400 | $20,000 – $45,000 | 18-24 months |
Community Colleges | Online | $6,000 – $12,000 | $200 – $400 | $7,000 – $14,000 | 18-30 months |
Community Colleges | Traditional/Hybrid | $7,000 – $14,000 | $250 – $450 | $8,000 – $16,000 | 18-30 months |
For-Profit Colleges | Online | $20,000 – $50,000 | $700 – $1,500 | $25,000 – $55,000 | 12-18 months |
Additional Cost Considerations
Cost Category | Range | Notes |
Application Fees | $25 – $100 | One-time fee |
Technology Fees | $100 – $500/semester | Online programs |
Books & Materials | $500 – $1,500/year | Digital textbooks often cheaper |
Clinical Fees | $200 – $800/semester | If clinicals required |
Graduation Fees | $100 – $300 | One-time fee |
Lab Fees | $150 – $400/semester | For on-campus components |
Financial Aid Options
Aid Type | Typical Coverage | Eligibility |
Federal Pell Grant | Up to $7,395/year | Need-based |
Federal Student Loans | Up to $12,500/year | Most students qualify |
Employer Tuition Assistance | $2,000 – $10,000/year | Hospital/healthcare employers |
State Grants | $500 – $5,000/year | Varies by state |
Nursing Scholarships | $1,000 – $10,000 | Merit and need-based |
Military Benefits | Full tuition coverage | Veterans and active duty |
Cost-Saving Strategies
Strategy | Potential Savings | Description |
In-State Tuition | 50-70% reduction | Establish residency before enrollment |
Transfer Credits | $3,000 – $8,000 | Use existing college credits |
Accelerated Programs | 20-30% total cost | Complete degree faster |
Employer Partnerships | $2,000 – $15,000 | Discounted tuition rates |
Community College Start | $5,000 – $12,000 | Complete prerequisites at lower cost |
Program Duration Impact on Total Cost
Program Length | Typical Cost Range | Benefits | Considerations |
12-15 months | $20,000 – $45,000 | Faster completion, quicker ROI | Intensive workload |
18-24 months | $12,000 – $35,000 | Balanced pace, manageable | Standard timeline |
24-36 months | $8,000 – $25,000 | Part-time friendly, lower cost | Longer time to degree |
Note: Costs shown are estimates and can vary significantly based on location, specific institution, and individual circumstances. Always verify current tuition rates with specific schools.
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