With the recent national upswing in the demand for advanced registered nursing, Alabama has increased opportunities for current registered nurses (RNs) to further their careers with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, via the popular RN to BSN route. This will enable current RNs in the state to increase their career options as well as their earning potential. With online options, working RNs in the state can advance their education in an accelerated and cost-effective manner.
2025 Best Online RN to BSN Programs in Alabama
Looking for the best online RN to BSN programs in Alabama? RegisteredNursing.org has done the research for you. We rank programs based on quality, affordability, and flexibility. Our list helps you find a program that fits your needs and schedule. Whether you're advancing your career or seeking new opportunities, our rankings guide you to the right choice. Check out our detailed rankings to see which programs stand out. Learn more about our rankings methodology.
The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL - Public 4-Year - ua.edu
Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Alabama offers an online RN to BSN program tailored for registered nurses seeking to elevate their nursing qualifications without sacrificing their professional commitments. This program stands out for its affordability at $385 per credit hour and the requirement of only 25 nursing credit hours, making it an efficient choice for advancing one's education. It is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, ensuring a high-quality curriculum that includes informatics, evidence-based practice, and community health. The program is designed for flexibility, accepting applications year-round and does not require ACT/SAT scores, though a 2.5 GPA and RN licensure are prerequisites.
- Online flexible format
- 25 nursing credit hours
- $385 per credit hour
- Accredited nursing program
- Year-round application acceptance
- RN licensure required
- No ACT/SAT scores needed
- 2.5 GPA prerequisite
- Annual background check
- Total 126 graduation credits
Bachelor's - RN to BSN/MSN Nurse Executive
Concentration: Nurse Executive - Online Learning - Visit Website
For RNs aiming for leadership roles, The University of Alabama's online RN to BSN/MSN Nurse Executive program presents an accelerated route to both bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing. Focused on the Nurse Executive concentration, this program prepares students for healthcare management through a curriculum that emphasizes leadership and requires 180 clinical hours. With tuition rates of $385 per hour for bachelor's and $440 for master's courses, the program is both comprehensive and accessible. It requires a 3.0 GPA and RN licensure but offers the convenience of no campus attendance and early graduate admission options. Accredited by the CCNE, it ensures a rigorous educational standard.
- 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
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 advance their education. With a focus on flexibility, the program can be completed in just three semesters, accommodating the busy schedules of working professionals. It offers up to 37 transfer credits for those with an unencumbered RN license, making the transition smoother. The curriculum covers holistic nursing, evidence-based practice, and leadership, equipping graduates for higher roles in healthcare. A minimum GPA of 2.5 and a current RN license are required for admission.
- 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
The Concurrent BSN program at Auburn University is a hybrid option for RNs aiming to further their education without pausing their careers. This program stands out for its three-semester completion time and the blend of online and in-person learning. It emphasizes holistic care, evidence-based practices, and leadership, preparing nurses for advanced healthcare positions. Applicants must have a 2.5 GPA, a current RN license, and completed prerequisites, with the opportunity to transfer up to 37 credits.
- 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
University of Alabama in Huntsville
Huntsville, AL - Public 4-Year - uah.edu
Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Alabama in Huntsville provides an RN to BSN online program tailored for registered nurses seeking to elevate their qualifications without pausing their careers. This program stands out for its adaptability, allowing students to engage in coursework virtually, making it ideal for those balancing professional and academic commitments. Admission requires a 2.0 GPA and an active, unencumbered nursing license. The curriculum is designed to deepen clinical expertise, foster leadership abilities, and enhance professional growth, equipping graduates for broader roles in the healthcare sector. Notably, students must earn at least a 'C' in nursing courses and complete the final 12 of 18 credits at UAH.
- Online flexible program format
- Minimum 2.0 GPA requirement
- Must maintain unencumbered nursing license
- Minimum 'C' grade in nursing courses
- Last 12 of 18 credits at UAH
Jacksonville State University
Jacksonville, AL - Public 4-Year - jsu.edu
Bachelor's - STEP RN-BSN Program
Online Learning - Visit Website
Jacksonville State University's STEP RN-BSN Program stands out for its accelerated, flexible online format tailored for registered nurses aiming to advance their careers. This program uniquely allows RNs to complete their BSN in just one year, offering up to 35 credit hours for prior nursing experience. With no waiting list, nurses can start in Spring, Summer, or Fall, choosing between full-time or part-time schedules to fit their professional commitments. The 100% online coursework ensures accessibility, making it an ideal choice for Alabama's working nurses seeking a swift and convenient path to a bachelor's degree in nursing.
- 100% online nursing degree
- Complete in one calendar year
- No waiting list
- Earn 35 credit hours for RN experience
- Spring, Summer, Fall admissions
- Full-time and part-time options
- Designed for working RNs
University of South Alabama
Mobile, AL - Public 4-Year - southalabama.edu
Bachelor's - RN to BSN Pathway
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of South Alabama offers an RN to BSN Pathway exclusively online, tailored for Registered Nurses seeking to elevate their qualifications. This program stands out by allowing nurses to leverage their current licenses and experience towards a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. It emphasizes a curriculum that spans critical areas like sciences, humanities, and nursing practice, all designed to fit around the busy schedules of working professionals. With no specific concentration, the program provides a broad foundation, enabling graduates to pursue diverse nursing roles or further education. Highlights include its adaptability, focus on professional growth, and the seamless transition it offers from RN to BSN.
- Online program for RNs
- Builds on existing nursing credentials
- Flexible course scheduling
- Professional nursing preparation
- Pathway to advanced education
Fast & Affordable Program Options
Those pursuing an advanced nursing degree may intend to do so while currently employed as a registered nurse. Because of this, many schools in Alabama are now offering fully accredited online RN to BSN programs to offer maximum flexibility for students who want to complete their degree quickly, cheaply, and easily.
Fastest Online RN to BSN Degree Options
Looking to complete your RN to BSN program in the shortest amount of time? While many programs can take up to four semesters if taken part-time, motivated students may wish to complete their degree more quickly. Many full-time RN to BSN programs in Alabama can be completed in just two semesters. Popular online options in the state include:
| School | Degree Name | Length |
| Troy University | RN to BSN Mobility Program | 2 semesters (8 months) |
| University of South Alabama | Online RN to BSN | 2 semesters (8 months) |
Learn more about the Fastest RN to BSN Programs.
Do 6-month RN to BSN Programs Exist?
While rare, it is technically possible to complete your RN to BSN in 6 months, provided you have the applicable prior credits and your school lets you transfer them all. You will be hard-pressed to find a program in Alabama advertised as such, but if you are trying to complete your RN to BSN degree in an accelerated 6 months, you should have a personal talk with each of the schools you are considering to determine if this is an option for you. As stated, this will generally require a high number of prior credits and some professional nursing experience, and even then, it will be at the program’s discretion.
Affordable Online RN to BSN Options
Tuition and costs of RN to BSN programs can vary depending on which school you choose, but there are many affordable options based out of Alabama. Most programs offer online tuition rates, in-state tuition rates, and out-of-state tuition rates, so be mindful of those categories. Online and full-time options often turn out cheaper in the long run, but it’s always a good idea to price out any program you are considering. Be sure to factor in things like mandatory fees (technology fee, etc.) as well as textbook expenses, as these are often not included in the tuition price. If you are looking to complete your RN to BSN as cheaply as possible, consider some of the following Alabama schools:
| School | Degree Name | Tuition Cost |
| Auburn University at Montgomery | Online RN to BSN | In- state: $368 per credit; Out-of-state: $389 per credit |
| University of North Alabama | Online RN to BSN | $340 per credit in-state or online |
Learn more about Affordable RN to BSN Degrees.
Admissions Requirements for Accredited RN to BSN Programs
Once you've decided to continue your nursing education with a BSN, you'll need to look at the different schools in the state that offer the program, and the requirements necessary to gain admission. It's wise to check with the Alabama Board of Nursing to see which schools offer approved programs. While requirements may differ depending on the school, the following is a general guide to what you might encounter:
- Submission of a completed RN-BSN Nursing Application Packet along with any application fees
- Minimum GPA of 2.50 for all prerequisite courses
- Minimum overall GPA of 2.0
- Submission of all required medical information and evidence of health insurance
- Completion of an accredited diploma or associate's degree in nursing, and a current unrestricted registered nursing license
Classes & Courses: What is the Curriculum Like?
Most RN to BSN programs in the state are comprised of two components: the first is the pre-professional component, which consists of prerequisite general education courses, which may include English Composition, Statistics, General Psychology, and others. The second is the professional component, in which specific nursing courses are completed. These nursing courses may include Nursing Informatics for Registered Nurses, Role Transition in Baccalaureate Nursing, Complex Client Systems for Registered Nurses, and more. In general, anywhere from roughly 25-31 credit hours in professional nursing courses will be required to graduate, and students are typically admitted starting in Fall, Spring, or Summer semesters.
The RN to BSN curriculum consists of a variety of specialized nursing courses, some of which involve practice-based clinical assignments. For example, the University of South Alabama College of Nursing offers the following courses as part of their RN to BSN program:
- Concepts of Professional Nursing
- Healthcare Leadership/Collaboration
- Pathophysiology and Trends
- Community Health
Aside from the curriculum, prospective RN to BSN students in Alabama should ensure that any program they consider is properly accredited. An accredited program has undergone rigorous academic evaluation, and most employers and graduate-level nursing programs require graduation from an accredited nursing school. Learn more about nursing program accreditation.
2025 List of RN to BSN Programs in Alabama
Find the best accredited RN to BSN degree program near you in Alabama by browsing our listings below.
Find RN to BSN Programs By City:
Athens, AL
Athens State University
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN Program
Online Learning - Website
- Online RN to BSN pathway
- Minimum 2.0 transfer GPA
- Current RN license required
- Leadership skill development
- Supportive learning environment
Auburn, AL
Auburn University
- Bachelor's - Concurrent BSN
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 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
- Bachelor's - Nursing, RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- 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
Huntsville, AL
University of Alabama in Huntsville
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Online flexible program format
- Minimum 2.0 GPA requirement
- Must maintain unencumbered nursing license
- Minimum 'C' grade in nursing courses
- Last 12 of 18 credits at UAH
Jacksonville, AL
Jacksonville State University
- Bachelor's - STEP RN-BSN Program
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online nursing degree
- Complete in one calendar year
- No waiting list
- Earn 35 credit hours for RN experience
- Spring, Summer, Fall admissions
- Full-time and part-time options
- Designed for working RNs
Livingston, AL
University of West Alabama
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online flexible program
- One-year completion time
- 120 total credit hours
- $325 per credit hour
- ACEN accredited program
- Designed for working RNs
- Evidence-based curriculum
- Advanced nursing skills focus
Mobile, AL
University of South Alabama
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN Pathway
Online Learning - Website
- Online program for RNs
- Builds on existing nursing credentials
- Flexible course scheduling
- Professional nursing preparation
- Pathway to advanced education
Montevallo, AL
University of Montevallo
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN Program
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid 3-semester format
- 2.5 minimum GPA required
- Active RN license needed
- Clinical practice experiences
- Alabama Board of Nursing approved
Montgomery, AL
Auburn University at Montgomery
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Fully online or hybrid format
- Designed for working RNs
- Partnership with hospitals
- Expand nursing career opportunities
- Flexible educational advancement
Troy, AL
Troy University
- Bachelor's - Online RN Mobility
Online Learning - Website
- Online program, flexible schedule
- Completion possible in 18 weeks
- Accredited by ACEN
- Multiple enrollment terms
- Career advancement focused
- Experienced nursing faculty
- Full and part-time options
Tuscaloosa, AL
The University of Alabama
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- 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
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN/MSN Nurse Executive
Concentration: Nurse Executive - Online Learning - Website
- 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