Best Kentucky RN to BSN Programs

Advanced education for registered nurses (RNs) in Kentucky is on the rise. With the increased earnings and job opportunities a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN) can bring, many RNs in the state are opting to go back to school to build upon their Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN). With both online and classroom RN to BSN program options available, Kentucky RNs have many educational choices at their fingertips.

2019 - Best Online RN to BSN Programs in Kentucky

It's no secret that RNs who hold a BSN degree have a higher earning potential and are eligible for a wider array of jobs. Nurses in Kentucky who wish to transition to a BSN degree can enroll in one of the state's RN to BSN bridge programs to achieve this goal. Online RN to BSN programs make this process much easier, giving students the flexibility and autonomy to work their education into their schedules. To help these nurses choose the right program, we have ranked the top online RN to BSN programs in the state of Kentucky below. Take a look at these top schools and make your dream nursing career a reality!

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

^#1

Eastern Kentucky University

Richmond, KY

Eastern Kentucky University offers students a convenient online RN to BSN program with no campus visits required. Enrolled students can choose from the traditional path, taking 1-2 courses per term and finishing in about 2 years, or the accelerated path, where 2 courses per term are taken and the program is completed in roughly 18 months. The curriculum integrates academic and professional nursing topics, and students can arrange their clinical projects locally.

• RN to BSN Online/Hybrid

Tuition & Fees:

• $$$$$

Quick Facts:

• Public 4-Year
• Some grad programs offered online
• Multiple program start dates per year

^#2

Morehead State University

Morehead, KY

The post-licensure RN to BSN program through Morehead State University allows students to earn their bachelor's degree online using an 8-week modular format. The curriculum prepares students to provide patient-centered care, effective leadership, and top-notch clinical skills. Course requirements include Leadership in Nursing, Health Promotion for Aging Persons, and more.

• RN to BSN Online/Hybrid

Tuition & Fees:

• $$$$$

Quick Facts:

• Public 4-Year
• Some grad programs offered online
• Students admitted to the program in the Fall and Spring semesters

^#3

Murray State University

Murray, KY

Murray State University's 100% online RN to BSN program provides students with a flexible pathway to a higher level nursing career. This 20 credit-hour program (excluding prerequisites) can be accessed anytime from any location, making it easy for students to fit in their studies when it's best for them. RN to BSN core courses at MSU include Nursing Assessment, Leadership and Management in Nursing, and Professional Nursing Practice, among others.

• RN to BSN Online/Hybrid

Tuition & Fees:

• $$$$$

Quick Facts:

• Public 4-Year
• Some grad programs offered online
• All online students pay Kentucky in-state tuition rates, regardless of location

^#4

Midway University

Midway, KY

Midway University aims to reduce the shortage of BSN-educated nurses in the state through its online RN to BSN program. Students are able to complete the program in 12-24 months, depending on the number of credits they transfer in. Supportive, experienced faculty are available to students via email, phone, and video-conferencing. The curriculum includes general education and nursing core courses such as Pharmacology, Adaptation for Mental Health, and more.

• RN to BSN Online Campus

Tuition & Fees:

• $$$$$

Quick Facts:

• Private Non-Profit 4-Year
• Many grad programs offered online
• 16:1 student to faculty ratio

^#5

University of Louisville

Louisville, KY

With a 25% reduction in tuition (as of Fall 2019), students can earn a quality, affordable RN to BSN education through the University of Louisville. The 100% online program requires no campus visits and boasts small class sizes to give students a personalized experience. Enrolled students take one 8-week course at a time which cover topics such as nursing research, pharmacotherapeutics, health policy and more. Most finish the program in around 5 semesters, though it can be completed faster or slower.

• RN to BSN Online/Hybrid

Tuition & Fees:

• $$$$$

Quick Facts:

• School has a Hospital Affiliation
• Public 4-Year
• A few grad programs offered online

Admissions Requirements for Kentucky RN to BSN Programs

Once you decide to pursue an RN to BSN degree program, you'll need to choose a school. Below are some the typical admissions requirements you may face at schools in the state:

• Unrestricted US Registered Nurse (RN) license
• Must have earned an Associate's Degree in Nursing or a diploma in nursing
• Cumulative GPA of 2.5 on all undergraduate work
• Submission of transcripts from all colleges previously attended

RN to BSN Classes & Courses

General education courses, advanced nursing courses, and electives make up the curriculum of an RN to BSN program. Lexington-based University of Kentucky School of Nursing offers the following courses as part of their program:

• NUR 350: Concepts in Professional Nursing
• NUR 450: The Impact of Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing
• NUR 354: Pathophysiology
• NUR 352: Pharmacology
• NUR 452: Leadership & Management for RNs

Online RN to BSN Programs in Kentucky

If convenience and flexibility are priorities, an online RN to BSN program is an ideal way to complete a baccalaureate nursing degree. These programs are accredited and academically rigorous, but allow students to finish the course at their own pace. Many working RNs and students with families find that this online program allows them to finish their degrees while keeping other commitments.

Featured Online School

The University of Louisville offers a 100% online RN to BSN program that's accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The curriculum is designed by nurses for nurses, and students can complete coursework when it fits their schedule. Small class sizes and professional, award-winning faculty round out the experience.

Admissions and Program Length

Program length depends mainly on whether students choose to study part-time or full-time. Many programs can be completed in 12 months (including Summer semester attendance) of full-time study, while part-time students can take 18-24 months to complete the program. Many ADN credits can be transferred over to the RN to BSN program, making the program shorter. Students can generally expect to take approximately 30 credit hours of upper division nursing courses.

Tuition and Cost of Attendance

Tuition and fees for an RN to BSN program can fluctuate due to many things, like whether you choose an online or classroom program. You'll also need to factor in other mandatory costs, like course materials. Tuition for the RN to BSN program at Bowling Green's Western Kentucky University costs $463 per credit hour. Many students seek financial aid in the form of loans and/or scholarships to help pay for school.

Does an RN to BSN Increase My Salary?

Registered nurses who aim to advance in their current jobs or pursue higher-level specialty nursing jobs can expect to make more money. The catch is that many of these positions require at least a BSN degree. Aside from the higher salary, a BSN makes a candidate much more attractive to employers in hospitals, care facilities, and other healthcare environments.

RN to BSN Salary Comparison in Kentucky

An RN in Louisville, Kentucky can earn between $43,000 and $66,000 annually, according to Glassdoor. The average nurse in the Louisville area earns approximately $53,574. The main difference between those earning at the bottom of the pay scale versus those at the top is education. RNs who hold a BSN or higher tend to make substantially more than those with lower nursing degrees.

2020 List of RN to BSN Programs in Kentucky

Kentucky has taken a view on the needs of their health care system that is moving toward a BSN degree requirement. Although it is not yet mandatory to obtain your BSN, it is strongly recommended. With more than 20 RN to BSN programs being offered all over the state, there is ample opportunity to take the plunge and earn your degree. A BSN nurse is generally offered more in a yearly salary, sought after for advancement opportunities, and has the ability to move into leadership positions more rapidly. If earning around $10,000 more yearly sounds like something you could sink your teeth into, you might want to consider a BSN degree.

Find RN to BSN Programs By City:

• Louisville RN to BSN Programs

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