Best Online RN to BSN Programs in Iowa

With the demand for nurses skyrocketing all around the country, it's no wonder why many registered nurses (RNs) in Iowa are choosing to go back to school to complete a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing. If you are a registered nurse who has gained licensure through an Associate's Degree in Nursing, there are specialized nursing degrees out there to help you earn a more advanced degree. These RN to BSN programs will help current RNs achieve lucrative leadership nursing roles.

2024 - Best Online RN to BSN Programs in Iowa

For registered nurses looking to take advantage of the expanded employment and salary opportunities that a BSN can lead do, Iowa offers a slew of RN to BSN programs that can help them reach these goals. Flexible, convenient, and with many online options, RN to BSN programs are growing in popularity as healthcare employers move to hire more BSN-educated RNs. Finding a great online program, however, can be stressful; that's why we've ranked the top online RN to BSN programs in Iowa. Peruse our rankings below and you'll be one step closer to your dream career.

For more information on our top nursing school rankings, visit our Methodology Page (https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/).

1.

Mercy College of Health Sciences

Des Moines, IA

Developed from the Essentials for Professional Nursing Practice and the Quality and Safety Education for Nurses, Mercy College of Health Sciences offers a top-notch online RN to BSN. The long-established school readies ambitious nurses to lead their teams and provide superior patient care.

• RN to BSN Online/Hybrid

Quick Facts:

• A non-profit, completely online RN-BSN program
  
• A nearly 100-year-old nursing school
  
• Prepares competent and compassionate nurses

2.

The University of Iowa

Iowa City, IA

The University of Iowa's online RN-to-BSN program empowers registered nurses to advance their careers with flexibility. Tailored for working professionals, it emphasizes leadership and evidence-based practice. With renowned faculty and a supportive learning environment, UI prepares nurses to excel in diverse healthcare settings.

• RN to BSN Online/Hybrid

Quick Facts:

• Fall start and spring start
• Offered in a fully online format, providing flexibility for working nurses
• Part-time options are available for students who need a more flexible schedule.

3.

Saint Luke's College UnityPoint Health

Sioux City, IA

Saint Luke's College UnityPoint Health offers a top-notch online RN-to-BSN program, seamlessly merging flexibility with academic rigor. Designed for working nurses, the program prioritizes career advancement and leadership development. With a focus on innovative online education, Saint Luke's College prepares nurses for success in today's ever-evolving healthcare industry.

• RN to BSN Online/Hybrid

Quick Facts:

• Seamless transition to BSN
• Learner-focused program
• Flexible full and part time schedules

4.

Mount Mercy University

Cedar Rapids, IA

Nurses can have a greater impact on the quality of care patients receive by earning their bachelor's online at Mount Mercy University. The RN to BSN degree completion program includes understandings from liberal arts and sciences as well as core nursing skills.

• RN to BSN Online/Hybrid

Quick Facts:

• Can be completed in less than 2 years
  
• Nine start dates annually
  
• Built on strong Catholic traditions

5.

Northwestern College

Orange City, IA

Northwestern College's online RN to BSN program educates students on treating and caring for the entire patient. The Christ-based curriculum covers Lifespan Health Assessment, Nursing Informatics, and Shalom with Diverse Populations.

• RN to BSN Online/Hybrid

Quick Facts:

• A Christ-centered college
  
• Seamless credit transfer experience
  
• Practice experiences are completed in the workplace

Fast & Affordable Program Options

Getting a BSN can be a challenging process, but as a bridge program, RN to BSNs are a much easier undertaking, especially for nurses who are working full-time and have little time and money to commit to their education.

Fastest Online RN to BSN Degree Options

With a traditional BSN program, you could be required to invest four years (or more) to get your degree. But an RN to BSN program is a fast-tracked option, allowing you to graduate in only two years — or even less. These programs build on your previous nursing experience and training and you may even get your degree in as little as 6 months. Below are a few options for the fastest RN to BSN programs in the state.

Learn more about the Fastest RN to BSN Programs.

Do 6-month RN to BSN Programs Exist?

Yes, they do, but they aren’t super common. If you have substantial transferable credits and an associate degree in nursing, a 6-month RN to BSN may be an option for you if one is offered in your community. Unfortunately, you’ll have to look outside of Iowa if you want to pursue these opportunities as none are currently offered in the state.

Affordable Online RN to BSN Options

As mentioned, RN to BSN programs can be extremely affordable, but it’s good to be aware of the individual costs involved, especially when relocating to Iowa from another state. Many schools (particularly state schools) divide their tuition rates by whether or not you are a resident of Iowa or if you are an online student. Additionally, you may find that technology fees in combination with the cost of textbooks and room and board may add up to the cost of your total tuition. That being said, there are a few RN to BSN programs in the state that offer the lowest tuition rates:

Learn more about Affordable RN to BSN Degrees.

Admissions Requirements for Accredited RN to BSN Programs

To be accepted into an RN to BSN program, you must meet all your school's requirements. Competitive programs will pick only the top applicants. Entrance criteria is not unlike other college admissions criteria. Below are some examples of requirements at accredited Iowa colleges:

• Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5
• Must have computer literacy
• Current Iowa license as a registered nurse
• General Education requirements must be met prior to beginning the program

Classes & Courses: What is the Curriculum Like?

Generally, once general education requirements are completed, students are able to tackle the specialized nursing coursework. Waterloo, Iowa's Allen College features the following nursing courses as part of their RN to BSN program:

• NU 301: Intro to Baccalaureate Nursing
• NU 461: Nursing Leadership
• NU 380: Introduction to Nursing Research
• NU 457: Chronic Illness
• NU 450: Community & Public Health Nursing

2024 List of RN to BSN Programs in Iowa

View the best accredited RN to BSN degree programs in Iowa by taking a look at our listings below.

Find RN to BSN Programs By City:

• Des Moines RN to BSN Programs

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