Best Missouri RN to BSN Programs

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.

2019 - Best Online RN to BSN Programs in Missouri

Going back to school to earn a bachelor's degree in nursing is a common "next step" for RNs who hold an ADN or diploma. RN to BSN programs are designed specifically for this purpose, and are a quick and flexible way for nurses to achieve their professional goals. With online options, students can even continue to work full-time or take care of family obligations. To help you choose the right program, we have ranked the top online RN to BSN programs in Missouri. Peruse our rankings below to get started, and you'll be on your way to a BSN degree in no time.

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

^#1

Southeast Missouri State University

Cape Girardeau, MO

Southeast Missouri State University offers an RN to BSN program that benefits busy, working nurses. The program is 100% online, and no campus visitation is required. Following completion of the program, RNs can earn a BSN and expand their career opportunities. Southeast Missouri State University offers either a full or part-time schedule, so nurses can further their degree while maintaining their current position, or opt for a quicker completion by going full-time.

• RN to BSN Online/Hybrid

Tuition & Fees:

• $$$$$

Quick Facts:

• Public 4-Year
• Only six courses are required (in addition to any general education courses needed for graduation)
• Must be a resident of Missouri, Kentucky, Illinois, or Arkansas

^#2

Missouri Western State University

Saint Joseph, MO

To help meet recommendations that two-thirds of nurses hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, Missouri Western State University has a convenient online BSN completion program available. The curriculum includes community health and leadership which helps nurses advance up the clinical ladder. Working nurses can complete classes online, however, the school also partners with local community colleges for added flexibility. Although many RNs earn their BSN within two years, prospective students are encouraged to contact the school for a more individualized timeline.

• RN to BSN Online/Hybrid

Tuition & Fees:

• $$$$$

Quick Facts:

• Public 4-Year
• Includes a senior capstone clinical
• Offers individualized advising to students

^#3

Missouri State University

Springfield, MO

Accredited by the CCNE, students enrolled in Missouri State University’s BSN program can be assured they are achieving the best education to help advance their career. Additionally, students living out-of-state are not required to pay additional tuition fees, which makes this program accessible, flexible, and convenient. Graduates have the foundation to advance to leadership and management roles as well.

• RN to BSN Online/Hybrid

Tuition & Fees:

• $$$$$

Quick Facts:

• Public 4-Year
• Some grad programs offered online
• Focus on family and community care

^#4

University of Missouri-St. Louis

St. Louis, MO

The RN to BSN program offered through the University of Missouri-St. Louis is set up to help nurses in all walks of life advance their degree. The school offers fully online, blended on-campus as well as blended off-campus learning options. Nurses looking for a 100% online program can enjoy working towards a higher degree while continuing their current position as a practicing nurse; course materials, lectures, and assignments are all online.

• RN to BSN Online Campus

Tuition & Fees:

• $$$$$

Quick Facts:

• Public 4-Year
• Can be completed in 5 terms
• No application deadline

^#5

Hannibal-LaGrange University

Hannibal, MO

Hannibal-LaGrange University offers a 100% online, flexible program that allows nurses to enroll in any one of the eight-week sessions throughout the year. Students complete the program at their own pace and can select how many classes they wish to take at one time. This allows busy nurses to earn a higher degree while meeting the demands of their current work and familial responsibilities. This highly individualized program is a great choice for nurses, and is typically completed in just 12 months.

• RN to BSN Online/Hybrid

Tuition & Fees:

• $$$$$

Quick Facts:

• Private Non-Profit 4-Year
• No campus visitation required
• Eight-week sessions available year-round (January, March, June, August, October)

Admissions Requirements for Missouri RN to BSN Programs

Applying for an 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
• Criminal background check required

RN to BSN Classes & Courses

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

Online RN to BSN Programs in Missouri

To allow working RNs and those with hectic schedules the chance to complete a baccalaureate degree, some schools in Missouri now offer an online RN to BSN program. These programs are highly flexible, allowing students to decide how quickly to move through the coursework. Students can complete courses whenever they have time, even while traveling.

Featured Online School

Southeast Missouri State University offers a 100% online RN to BSN program that requires no campus visits. The curriculum combines liberal arts courses with current nursing theory and practice, and is based on the core concept of knowledgeable caring. The program teaches nurses how to interact with patients, families, and communities in ways that facilitate understanding. The Commission for Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) has accredited this online program.

Admissions and Program Length

Many RN to BSN programs can be completed in 1-2 years, depending on whether a student chooses full-time or part-time study. Additionally, online programs are typically self-paced, allowing students the choice of how quickly they want to earn their degree. Once admitted, RN to BSN programs usually begin during the Fall and Spring semesters, though some programs begin more frequently than this.

Tuition and Cost of Attendance

The cost of an RN to BSN program is dependent on a student's individual circumstances: how many credits they need to complete, whether they choose in-person or online learning, and other factors. The estimated cost of the RN to BSN program offered at Mizzou University of Missouri is $11,328.40. This includes resident tuition, an information technology fee, and other fees.

Does an RN to BSN Increase My Salary?

While the cost of an RN to BSN bridge program may seem hefty to some, many graduates find that their increased salary more than makes up for this expense. RNs with a BSN not only make more money, but they are eligible for a wider variety of specialty nursing careers and have more chances for upward mobility within their current jobs. Beyond this, providing elevated patient care and leadership in their nursing roles is an added bonus.

RN to BSN Salary Comparison in Missouri

According to Glassdoor, registered nurses in St. Louis, Missouri make between $41,000 and $74,000 per year, with the average salary hovering around $47,440. While many factors contribute to salary level, higher education is the most direct route to earning at the top of the wage range.

2019 List of RN to BSN Programs in Missouri

The state of health care in Missouri will require more highly trained nurses, which is why there are 25 colleges offering RN to BSN degree programs throughout the state. These colleges are looking to provide the future nurses with the skills sought after for a population that has higher demands for their nurses. BSN nurses in the state can look for more clinic responsibilities, roles in specialty units, management opportunities and higher salary options. If you obtain your BSN you can look to earn around $60,000 or more yearly, depending on location and specialty. Degrees in nursing pay off both in salary and opportunities, but most importantly for the patients receiving higher quality care.

Find RN to BSN Programs By City:

• Kansas City RN to BSN Programs
• Saint Louis RN to BSN Programs

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