Missouri registered nurses (RNs) who have previously earned an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) are realizing the opportunistic and monetary benefits of completing a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN). Healthcare employers are increasingly requiring a BSN or higher for nursing jobs, so many schools in Missouri are now offering specialized RN to BSN programs to meet this need. Nurses who complete the program are able to provide better patient care, as well as increase their earning potential.

2026 Best Online RN to BSN Programs in Missouri

RegisteredNursing.org has carefully evaluated and ranked the best online RN to BSN programs across Missouri to help nursing professionals advance their education. These distance learning programs offer registered nurses a flexible pathway to earn their bachelor's degree without disrupting their current work schedules. Online RN to BSN programs provide critical opportunities for nurses to enhance their clinical knowledge, expand career opportunities, and increase earning potential while maintaining professional responsibilities. Virtual nursing education allows students to complete coursework from home, balancing academic growth with personal and professional commitments. Our comprehensive rankings consider factors like program quality, affordability, student support, and academic rigor to ensure nurses can make informed decisions about their educational journey. See our detailed ranking methodology.
#1

Webster University

Saint Louis, MO - Private 4-year - webster.edu

Bachelor's - RN to BSN

Online Learning - Visit Website

Webster University's online RN to BSN program offers registered nurses a dynamic pathway to advance their professional credentials through a flexible, accelerated curriculum. Tailored for working healthcare professionals, students can complete their Bachelor of Science in Nursing within 1-2.5 years, leveraging transfer credits. The program distinguishes itself with doctorally prepared faculty, personalized credit evaluation, and an emphasis on holistic health promotion. Military-friendly and designed for career progression, the curriculum develops critical analytical skills and prepares nurses for expanded leadership roles across diverse healthcare environments. Eight-week course terms provide convenience for busy professionals seeking comprehensive educational advancement.

  • Fully online program
  • Part-time, flexible enrollment
  • 8-week course terms
  • Doctorally prepared faculty
  • Personalized credit evaluation
  • Career advancement focus
  • Comprehensive health care curriculum
#2

Missouri State University

Springfield, MO - Public 4-Year - missouristate.edu

Bachelor's - BSN-Completion

Online Learning - Visit Website

Missouri State University's online BSN-Completion program offers registered nurses a dynamic, accelerated pathway to career advancement. Tailored for working professionals, students can complete the program in just one year with flexible part-time scheduling. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based nursing practice, leadership development, and interprofessional healthcare strategies. Uniquely positioned with CCNE accreditation, the program requires a current RN license and provides affordable tuition at approximately $3,500 per semester. Multiple semester start dates and career advancement opportunities make this an attractive option for nurses seeking to elevate their professional credentials without disrupting their current employment.

  • 100% Online Program
  • Complete in One Year
  • Low-Cost Tuition: $3,500/Semester
  • Flexible Admission Requirements
  • CCNE Accredited Nursing Program
  • Multiple Semester Start Dates
  • Evidence-Based Curriculum
  • Career Advancement Opportunities
#3

Southeast Missouri State University

Cape Girardeau, MO - Public 4-Year - semo.edu

Bachelor's - RN-BSN Online Program

Online Learning - Visit Website

Southeast Missouri State University delivers a robust online RN-BSN program strategically crafted for working registered nurses seeking academic advancement. The curriculum provides advanced placement opportunities for nurses with associate degrees, enabling seamless credit transfer and accelerated progression. Students benefit from a comprehensive online learning environment that eliminates campus visit requirements while maintaining rigorous academic standards. The program spans 37 baccalaureate nursing credits, emphasizing critical thinking, professional development, and evidence-based practice. Designed with flexibility in mind, the program accommodates busy healthcare professionals, preparing them for expanded nursing leadership roles and potential graduate education pathways. Innovative field experiences are strategically integrated into coursework, ensuring practical skill enhancement.

  • Fully online RN-BSN program
  • Advanced placement for RNs
  • Flexible field experience options
  • 37 baccalaureate nursing credits
  • Prepares for graduate school
  • No campus visits required
  • Focuses on professional nursing roles
  • Emphasizes critical thinking skills
#4

University of Central Missouri

Warrensburg, MO - Public 4-Year - ucmo.edu

Bachelor's - Most Affordable Online RN to BSN Program

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Central Missouri's online RN to BSN program provides a dynamic and comprehensive pathway for registered nurses seeking to advance their academic credentials. With an exceptional 97.6% NCLEX pass rate, the program offers flexible online learning that accommodates working professionals. Students benefit from expert nursing faculty, cutting-edge simulation labs, and opportunities for specialized clinical experiences near Kansas City. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through local hospital partnerships and provides multiple specialization tracks including pediatrics and medical-surgical nursing. No specific entrance exam is mentioned for this online program, making it accessible for working RNs looking to expand their professional qualifications. The curriculum is designed to enhance critical thinking, leadership skills, and evidence-based practice in nursing.

  • 97.6% NCLEX pass rate
  • Most affordable online RN-BSN
  • Clinical experience at hospitals
  • Expert nursing faculty
  • State-of-the-art simulation labs
  • Multiple campus locations
  • Specialization options available
  • Competitive admission process
#5

Lindenwood University

Saint Charles, MO - Private 4-year - lindenwood.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor's in Nursing (RN to BSN)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Lindenwood University's online RN to BSN program provides registered nurses a dynamic and flexible educational pathway designed specifically for working professionals. Students can complete the accelerated program within 12-24 months, with the opportunity to earn up to 32 credits for previous nursing experience. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, healthcare leadership, policy development, and patient-centered care. With a competitive tuition rate of $495 per credit hour and no on-campus requirements, the program enables nurses to advance their careers while maintaining professional commitments. Graduates are prepared for expanded nursing roles and potential median annual earnings around $86,070, as projected by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The program does not specify mandatory entrance exam requirements for RN to BSN students.

  • Fully online program
  • $495 per credit hour
  • 12-24 month completion time
  • 32 credits for RN experience
  • Flexible for working nurses
  • Leadership and policy focus
  • No on-campus requirements
*Source: U.S. DOE, IPEDS 2023 collection, National Center for Education Statistics.

Fast & Affordable Program Options

One of the hesitations that prevent many nurses from getting their bachelor’s degree is that many BSN programs cost a lot of money and take up a lot of time. Fortunately, nurses who have a current license, an associate degree, and a few years of experience can seek out bridge programs such as an RN to BSN program to achieve their BSN degree quicker and cheaper than a more traditional BSN program.

Fastest Online RN to BSN Degree Options

RN to BSN programs are exceptionally fast with many students graduating in as little as two years or even less if you have a large number of transferable credits or your prospective program is offered online. Still, some RN to BSN programs are even faster than others. Take a look at the table below to discover some of the fastest RN to BSN programs in the state.

SchoolDegree NameLength
St. Louis UniversityOnline RN to BSN1 Year
Missouri State UniversityOnline RN to BSN1 Year

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 Missouri if you want to pursue these opportunities as none are currently offered in the state.

Affordable Online RN to BSN Options

For some students, the benefit of saving money on their education is much more attractive than the benefit of a timely RN to BSN program. Spending less time in the classroom means that your financial obligation to your chosen program will be relatively small compared to a traditional 4-year BSN program. Furthermore, the affordability of an RN to BSN program may be further compounded by residency status (depending on the school) or if you receive your education primarily online. Below are a few of the most affordable options in Missouri.

SchoolDegree NameTuition Cost
Northwest Missouri State UniversityOnline RN to BSN$9,502 per year (Resident)

$15,569 per year (Non-Resident)

North Central Missouri CollegeRN to BSN$6,978 per year

Learn more about Affordable RN to BSN Degrees.

Admissions Requirements for Accredited RN to BSN Programs

Applying for an accredited RN to BSN program is not unlike applying for other degree programs; if you meet the criteria and submit your application by the deadline, you have a decent chance of being accepted. Popular programs may be more selective. The following are common entrance requirements in the state:

  • Associate's Degree in Nursing required
  • Cumulative GPA of 2.5
  • Licensed as a registered nurse in good standing
  • A criminal background check required

Classes & Courses: What is the Curriculum Like?

Roughly 30 credits of upper-division nursing courses are required to complete an RN to BSN program. Some of the nursing courses offered at the University of Central Missouri include:

  • Advanced Concepts of Wellness for RNs
  • Socio-Economic Factors Impacting Health
  • Pathophysiology
  • Concepts of Nursing Leadership in Management

2025 List of RN to BSN Programs in Missouri

Looking for the perfect RN to BSN program in Missouri? Check out our listings below!

Find RN to BSN Programs By City:

Jump to City:

Bolivar, MO

Southwest Baptist University

  • Bachelor's - RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online curriculum
    • No onsite visits required
    • 95% job placement rate
    • ACEN-accredited program
    • Minimum 2.5 GPA required
    • Christian higher education
    • Flexible course scheduling
    • Practice experiences locally

Cape Girardeau, MO

Southeast Missouri State University

  • Bachelor's - RN-BSN Online Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online RN-BSN program
    • Advanced placement for RNs
    • Flexible field experience options
    • 37 baccalaureate nursing credits
    • Prepares for graduate school
    • No campus visits required
    • Focuses on professional nursing roles
    • Emphasizes critical thinking skills

Columbia, MO

Columbia College

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online flexible program
    • CCNE accredited nursing degree
    • Advance nursing career opportunities
    • Expert-level patient care skills
    • Enhance healthcare policy understanding
    • Areas of study include ethics, pharmacology
    • Designed for working RNs
    • Evidence-based practice focus

Fayette, MO

Central Methodist University-College of Graduate and Extended Studies

  • Bachelor's - Registered Nurse-to-Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online flexible nursing program
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Leadership skill development
    • Clinical experience integration
    • Prepares for advanced degrees
    • Statewide program availability
    • Professional practice focused

Central Methodist University-College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

  • Bachelor's - Registered Nurse-to-Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online flexible program format
    • CCNE accredited nursing program
    • Develop advanced clinical skills
    • Leadership and management preparation
    • Hands-on clinical experiences
    • Specialized healthcare coursework
    • Professional skill development
    • Pathway to advanced degrees

Jefferson City, MO

Lincoln University

  • Bachelor's - RN-BSN Program

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Online hybrid nursing program
    • Accredited by ACEN
    • Flexible for working RNs
    • 60+ credit hours required
    • Current RN license needed
    • Comprehensive clinical practicum
    • $343/credit nursing courses
    • Four-semester program structure

Joplin, MO

Missouri Southern State University

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online flexible program format
    • 2.8 GPA minimum requirement
    • Multiple entry points annually
    • ACEN Accredited Program
    • Comprehensive prerequisite courses
    • Rolling admissions process
    • Clinical practicum included
    • Background screening required

Marshall, MO

Missouri Valley College

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online flexible learning format
    • 124 total credit hours
    • Requires active RN license
    • 2.5 minimum GPA
    • Continuous enrollment option
    • Community-based clinical experiences
    • Designed for working nurses

Maryville, MO

Northwest Missouri State University

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online flexible program
    • 12-month completion time
    • 30 total credit hours
    • Total tuition $10,335
    • Per credit $334
    • Requires active RN license
    • Minimum 2.0 GPA
    • NLN CNEA Accredited

Parkville, MO

Park University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing, RN-BSN Online option

    Online Learning - Website

    • CCNE Accredited Nursing Program
    • State-of-the-art Simulation Labs
    • 6:1 Faculty-to-Student Ratio
    • Pre-licensure and RN-BSN Options
    • High NCLEX Pass Rates
    • Multiple Clinical Affiliations
    • TEAS Admission Test Required
    • Parkville Campus Location

Saint Charles, MO

Lindenwood University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor's in Nursing (RN to BSN)

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online program
    • $495 per credit hour
    • 12-24 month completion time
    • 32 credits for RN experience
    • Flexible for working nurses
    • Leadership and policy focus
    • No on-campus requirements

Saint Joseph, MO

Missouri Western State University

  • Bachelor's - RN-BSN Track

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online flexible format
    • Two-year completion timeline
    • Minimum 2.7 GPA required
    • Current RN licensure needed
    • Accredited by CCNE
    • 120 total credit hours
    • Senior Clinical Capstone course
    • Community health focus

Saint Louis, MO

Maryville University

  • Bachelor's - Online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online coursework
    • No entrance exam required
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Transfer-friendly curriculum
    • Complete in as few as 3 semesters
    • 40 credits for RN license
    • Minimum 2.5 GPA required
    • Current RN license needed

Missouri Baptist University

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Flexible Program
    • Complete in 12-22 months
    • Transfer up to 90 credits
    • Cost $350 per credit hour
    • Minimum 2.0 GPA required
    • Christian university setting
    • Real-world experienced faculty
    • Up to 40 nursing credits validated

Webster University

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online program
    • Part-time, flexible enrollment
    • 8-week course terms
    • Doctorally prepared faculty
    • Personalized credit evaluation
    • Career advancement focus
    • Comprehensive health care curriculum

Springfield, MO

Cox College

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online program
    • Eight-week course blocks
    • 120 total credit hours
    • No admission deadlines
    • Part-time or full-time options
    • CoxHealth tuition discount available
    • Bridge program to MSN
    • Working RN friendly

Missouri State University

  • Bachelor's - BSN-Completion

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Program
    • Complete in One Year
    • Low-Cost Tuition: $3,500/Semester
    • Flexible Admission Requirements
    • CCNE Accredited Nursing Program
    • Multiple Semester Start Dates
    • Evidence-Based Curriculum
    • Career Advancement Opportunities

Warrensburg, MO

University of Central Missouri

  • Bachelor's - Most Affordable Online RN to BSN Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • 97.6% NCLEX pass rate
    • Most affordable online RN-BSN
    • Clinical experience at hospitals
    • Expert nursing faculty
    • State-of-the-art simulation labs
    • Multiple campus locations
    • Specialization options available
    • Competitive admission process
*Data reference: IPEDS 2023, U.S. Department of Education, NCES.