Nurses work hard to demonstrate innovation and communication in their day-to-day duties and interactions with doctors, fellow nurses, and patients. With professional excellence as their guide, many nurses look to the bachelor’s level of study in order to continue their professional development in the hopes of creating a healthier future for individuals and communities. For current registered nurses without a bachelor’s degree, an RN to BSN program is perfect.
2026 Best Online RN to BSN Programs in Ohio
University of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, OH - Public 4-Year - uc.edu
Bachelor's - RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Cincinnati's RN to BSN Online program provides a streamlined educational pathway for licensed registered nurses seeking career advancement. Delivered entirely online, this program enables working professionals to complete their Bachelor of Science in Nursing without interrupting their current employment. Students can expect a flexible curriculum with only nine nursing courses and no clinical requirements, allowing completion within 9-18 months. The program boasts CCNE accreditation, multiple annual start dates, and an affordable tuition rate of $564 per credit hour. Uniquely designed to accommodate busy healthcare professionals, the curriculum emphasizes interprofessional learning and offers options in Public Health Nursing and Nurse Educator tracks.
- 100% online program
- No clinical requirements
- Only 9 nursing courses
- Six annual start dates
- CCNE accredited program
- Flexible completion time
- Easy credit transfer
- Public Health Nursing option
- Nurse Educator track available
- Interprofessional curriculum
Bachelor's - RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Public Health Nursing - Online Learning - Visit Website
University of Cincinnati's Online RN to BSN program with a Public Health Nursing concentration offers a strategic educational pathway for registered nurses. This specialized track focuses on population health, epidemiology, and community wellness strategies. Students can complete the fully online program in 9-18 months without traditional clinical requirements. The CCNE-accredited curriculum provides six annual start dates, making it convenient for working professionals. With an emphasis on evidence-based practice and interprofessional education, graduates gain advanced skills in public health interventions, health promotion, and community assessment. The program's flexible structure and affordable tuition of $564 per credit hour make it an attractive option for nurses seeking to expand their professional capabilities.
- 100% online program
- No clinical requirements
- 9 nursing courses total
- Six annual start dates
- Public Health Nursing option
- CCNE accredited program
- Flexible completion timeline
- Tuition $564 per credit hour
- Transfer credits accepted
- Evidence-based curriculum
Bachelor's - RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Nurse Educator - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Cincinnati's Online RN to BSN program with a Nurse Educator concentration prepares registered nurses for advanced teaching roles in healthcare settings. This comprehensive online track equips students with pedagogical skills, curriculum development techniques, and educational leadership strategies. Designed for working professionals, the program allows completion in as little as nine months with only nine nursing courses and no clinical requirements. CCNE-accredited and offering six annual start dates, the curriculum emphasizes evidence-based teaching practices and interprofessional education. Affordable at $564 per credit hour with tuition guaranteed for four years, this program provides an exceptional pathway for nurses aspiring to transition into educational leadership roles within healthcare institutions.
- 100% online program
- No clinical requirements
- Nine nursing courses total
- Six annual start dates
- Nurse Educator track available
- CCNE accredited program
- Flexible completion timelines
- Part-time and full-time options
- $564 per credit hour
- Tuition guaranteed for four years
Ohio State University
Columbus, OH - Public 4-Year - osu.edu
Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Visit Website
Ohio State University's fully online RN to BSN program offers registered nurses a dynamic pathway to advance their professional capabilities. Tailored for associate degree nurses seeking career progression, the program eliminates traditional textbook expenses while providing comprehensive curriculum focusing on evidence-based practice and clinical leadership. Students benefit from flexible learning options, multiple enrollment start dates, and a curriculum that emphasizes holistic patient care strategies. The program stands out with its innovative approach to nursing education, supporting professional development through low student-to-instructor ratios and comprehensive wellness training. No entrance exam is required for admission, making it accessible for working nurses seeking academic advancement.
- No textbook costs for nursing courses
- Fully online flexible program
- Accredited nursing program
- Emphasizes evidence-based practice
- Supports professional career advancement
- Low student-to-instructor ratios
- Multiple enrollment start dates
Mercy College of Ohio
Toledo, OH - Private 4-year - mercycollege.edu
Bachelor's - RN-BSN Nursing Online
Online Learning - Visit Website
Mercy College of Ohio offers a robust online RN-BSN program tailored for practicing registered nurses seeking career advancement. The curriculum strategically transforms associate degree or diploma credentials into a comprehensive bachelor's degree, achievable within just twelve months for full-time students. Graduates develop sophisticated leadership and research skills essential for modern healthcare environments. The program provides exceptional flexibility, with rolling admissions and potential transfer of 32-39 credits. Students benefit from Christian values integration and a pathway to potential MSN fast track options. Requiring an active RN license and minimum 2.0 GPA, the program prepares nurses for expanded professional opportunities in diverse clinical settings, with Toledo area median salaries around $57,800.
- 100% Online Nursing Courses
- Flexible Start Times
- One-Year Full-Time Completion
- 32-39 Transfer Credits
- MSN Fast Track Option
- Rolling Admissions
- Required Active RN License
- Minimum 2.0 GPA
- Accredited Nursing Program
- Christian Values Integration
Ohio University
Athens, OH - Public 4-Year - ohio.edu
Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Visit Website
Ohio University's 100% online RN to BSN program offers registered nurses a streamlined pathway to academic advancement. The curriculum is strategically designed for working professionals, enabling full degree completion in just one year with an affordable tuition under $10,000. Students benefit from flexible 5-week classes, 8 annual start dates, and a transfer-friendly approach. The program requires an active RN license, an associate degree in nursing, and a minimum 2.0 GPA. Graduates emerge from a nationally ranked nursing school with enhanced career opportunities and comprehensive online support services. No specific entrance exam is required for this online program, making it an accessible option for practicing nurses seeking professional development.
- 100% Online Degree
- Affordable Under $10,000
- Completion in 1 Year
- 8 Annual Start Dates
- Flexible 5-Week Classes
- 120 Total Credit Program
- Transfer Credit Friendly
- Multiple Online Support Services
Youngstown State University
Youngstown, OH - Public 4-Year - ysu.edu
Bachelor's - RN-BSN Online Completion
Online Learning - Visit Website
Youngstown State University's online RN to BSN program offers a dynamic educational pathway for working nurses seeking career advancement. This accelerated, fully online degree can be completed in just 10 months, featuring a comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes clinical reasoning, leadership development, and evidence-based practice. With only 28 total credit hours and an affordable in-state tuition of $7,700, the program is tailored for busy healthcare professionals. Requiring a current RN license and minimum 2.0 GPA, the CCNE-accredited program prepares nurses for expanded roles in community health, technology integration, and professional nursing. Multiple start dates provide flexibility for working professionals looking to elevate their healthcare career.
- Online, accelerated 10-month program
- 28 total credit hours
- $7,700 in-state tuition
- CCNE accredited program
- Designed for working nurses
- Current RN license required
- Minimum 2.0 GPA needed
- Multiple start dates available
- Prepares for advanced nursing roles
Fast & Affordable Program Options
If you’re looking for a cheap and easy way to get your bachelor’s degree in nursing, there really isn’t a better choice than an RN to BSN. This accelerated track is available and most nursing schools and builds on a nursing existing education and experience to deliver a much shorter (and more affordable) education.
Fastest Online RN to BSN Degree Options
If you’re like most nurses, you have little room in your schedule for yourself not to mention going back to school. However, with an RN to BSN program, you usually aren’t going to need to be in school for more than two years, and you’ll often have the opportunity to work at your own place through the use of online learning. This creates a timely and flexible learning environment perfect for nurses who are working full-time.
| School | Degree Name | Length |
| Ohio University | Online RN to BSN | 1 Year |
| Ohio State University | RN to BSN | 1 Year |
Learn more about the Quickest RN to BSN Programs.
Do 6-month RN to BSN Programs Exist?
They do, though you likely won’t find them available in Ohio. To be eligible for a 6-month RN to BSN program, you need to have a significant number of credits available for transfer, and most schools have a limit on the amount you are allowed to transfer. That doesn’t mean that you won’t be able to search for these options out of state, however.
Cheapest 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 Ohio.
| School | Degree Name | Tuition Cost |
| University of Cincinnati | Online RN to BSN | $3,375 per year (Resident) $3,632 per year (Online) $6,991 per year (Non-Resident) |
| Shawnee State University | Online RN to BSN | $10,448 per year (Resident) $16,928 per year (Non-Resident) |
Learn more about Affordable RN to BSN Degrees.
Admissions Requirements for Accredited RN to BSN Programs
Throughout the state, there is some variance in the requirements for RN to BSN programs; each university decides what admissions requirements will ensure that the best nurses can gain entry to the program and earn their undergraduate degrees. Nurses can expect to encounter the following types of requirements; we encourage you to check directly with your accredited school of choice for school-specific admission criteria.
- Proof of residence in a state that has an articulation agreement with Ohio’s university network
- Associate’s Degree in Nursing from a school that is approved by the Ohio State Board of Nursing
- Proof of cumulative GPA of 2.0+
- Valid U.S. RN license without encumbrances
- Pre-requisite nursing and arts courses have been met
- Provide proof of current immunizations
Classes & Courses: What is the Curriculum Like?
Ashland University simplifies the process of undertaking the process of moving from RN to BSN. With dedicated faculty, some of whom have international acclaim, students advance at a flexible pace through course material such as:
- Introduction to Informatics in Healthcare
- Genetics and Healthcare
- Research & Evidence-Based Practice
- Health Care Systems
- Community & Public Health
- Health Care Systems
- Legal, Ethical & Political Perspectives
27 credit hours in nursing are required, in addition to as many art courses as an individual needs in order to make up the entire BSN curriculum at Ashland.
2025 List of RN to BSN Programs in Ohio
Take a look at Ohios best accredited RN to BSN programs in the listings below.
Find RN to BSN Programs By City:
- Cincinnati RN to BSN Programs
- Dayton RN to BSN Programs
- Columbus RN to BSN Programs
- Cleveland RN to BSN Programs
Akron, OH
University of Akron
- Bachelor's - Nursing, RN/BSN
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online nursing program
- Can complete in one year
- Most affordable in Ohio
- Expert faculty with real-world expertise
- Accredited by Higher Learning Commission
- Customized courses for adult learners
- Pathway to graduate nursing degrees
- Flexible part-time options available
Ashland, OH
Ashland University
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN Post-licensure Program
Online Learning - Website
- Online RN to BSN program
- Designed for licensed nurses
- Flexible curriculum
- Career advancement opportunity
- Builds on existing nursing knowledge
Athens, OH
Ohio University
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Degree
- Affordable Under $10,000
- Completion in 1 Year
- 8 Annual Start Dates
- Flexible 5-Week Classes
- 120 Total Credit Program
- Nationally Ranked Nursing School
- Transfer Credit Friendly
Bowling Green, OH
Bowling Green State University
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online program
- Three annual start dates
- Seven-week course format
- 30 credit hour completion
- Credits for previous nursing experience
- Faculty with graduate degrees
- CCNE accredited program
- Expand nursing career opportunities
Burton, OH
Kent State University at Geauga
- Bachelor's - Nursing for Registered Nurses (RN to BSN)
Online Learning - Website
- Online RN to BSN format
- CCNE Accredited program
- Multiple campus locations
- Career advancement focused
- Preparation for graduate studies
Cincinnati, OH
Cincinnati State Technical and Community College
- Bachelor's - Nursing RN-to-BSN Completion Program
Campus Based - Website
- First community college BSN program
- In-person RN-to-BSN format
- Complete nursing career pathway
- Addresses local nursing shortage
- No transfer requirements necessary
The Christ College of Nursing and Health Sciences
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online program.
- Flexible full and part-time options.
- No mandatory login times.
- Affordable tuition rates.
- Reputation for nursing excellence.
- Designed for working nurses.
- Enhance nursing credentials.
- Prepares for leadership roles.
University of Cincinnati
- Bachelor's - RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online program
- No clinical requirements
- Only 9 nursing courses
- Six annual start dates
- CCNE accredited program
- Flexible completion time
- Easy credit transfer
- Public Health Nursing option
- Bachelor's - RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Nurse Educator - Online Learning - Website
- 100% online program
- No clinical requirements
- Nine nursing courses total
- Six annual start dates
- Nurse Educator track available
- CCNE accredited program
- Flexible completion timelines
- Part-time and full-time options
- Bachelor's - RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Public Health Nursing - Online Learning - Website
- 100% online program
- No clinical requirements
- 9 nursing courses total
- Six annual start dates
- Public Health Nursing option
- CCNE accredited program
- Flexible completion timeline
- Tuition $564 per credit hour
Cleveland, OH
Cleveland State University
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN Program
Online Learning - Website
- Complete in three semesters
- Fully online format
- $240 in-state credit hour
- 95% graduation rate
- Prepares for MSN program
- Flexible scheduling
- Career advancement focused
- Professional writing courses
Columbus, OH
Capital University
- Bachelor's - BSN Completion Program
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Flexible hybrid learning format
- Designed for working RNs
- Requires 2.5 minimum GPA
- Current RN licensure needed
- Multicultural nursing focus
- Research and leadership courses
- Ohio Nursing Articulation Model participant
Franklin University
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Complete in 12 months online
- Transfer up to 90 credits
- $298 per credit hour
- CCNE Accredited Program
- No textbook purchase required
- Designed for working RNs
- 100% online coursework
- 120 total credit hours
Ohio State University
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Ranked #5 online bachelor's program
- No textbook costs for nursing courses
- Fully online flexible program
- Accredited nursing program
- Emphasizes evidence-based practice
- Supports professional career advancement
- Low student-to-instructor ratios
- Multiple enrollment start dates
Dayton, OH
Sinclair Community College
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing Completion
Online & Campus Based - Website
- RN to BSN completion degree
- 120-121 total credit hours
- Hybrid program format
- Develops nursing leadership skills
- Evidence-based practice focus
- Cultural competency training
- Addresses regional nursing shortage
- Nationally accredited program
Huron, OH
Bowling Green State University-Firelands
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online program
- 7-week asynchronous courses
- Three annual start dates
- Complete in three semesters
- Earn 16-56 transfer credits
- Total 122 credit hours to graduate
- 2.0 minimum GPA requirement
- CCNE accredited program
Lima, OH
James A. Rhodes State College
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN Completion Program
Online Learning - Website
- Online accelerated program
- Completed in one year
- 8-week course format
- Professional leadership focus
- Evidence-based practice integration
- Unencumbered RN license required
- Service area preference
- ACEN candidate program
Mansfield, OH
North Central State College
- Bachelor's - Baccalaureate of Science Nursing, BS
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Four-semester hybrid program
- Professional nursing skill development
- Clinical rotation in current workplace
- Total credit hours: 122-123
- Focuses on leadership and communication
- Accreditation in process by ACEN
- Servant leadership framework
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
Marietta, OH
Washington State Community College
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Campus Based - Website
- Designed for RNs with diploma/ADN
- Focuses on nursing leadership skills
- Emphasizes community health knowledge
- Supports career advancement opportunities
- Prepares for graduate nursing degrees
Marion, OH
Marion Technical College
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN Program
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Program
- 30 Credit Hours Required
- Complete in 3 Semesters
- Minimum 2.5 GPA
- Current RN License Needed
- Articulation Agreements Available
- Multiple Career Pathways
- Five-Year Completion Window
New Concord, OH
Muskingum University
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Online RN to BSN program
- Minimum 2.5 GPA required
- 23 nursing credit hours
- Active RN license needed
- 7 specialized nursing courses
- Additional non-nursing credits
Newark, OH
Central Ohio Technical College
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Program
- Two-Year Completion Timeline
- No Campus Attendance Required
- Flexible Eight-Week Courses
- Low Tuition Rates
- RN License Required
- Capstone Practicum Option
- ACEN Accreditation Candidacy
Pepper Pike, OH
Ursuline College
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN Online Program
Online Learning - Website
- Online flexible format
- Nine annual start dates
- Competitive $360/credit hour
- Up to 40 transfer credits
- CCNE accredited program
- Personalized faculty support
- Career advancement preparation
Portsmouth, OH
Shawnee State University
- Bachelor's - RN-BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Online flexible program
- ACEN accredited curriculum
- Small class sizes
- Experienced nurse educators
- Top 4 affordable nursing degree
Saint Clairsville, OH
Ohio University-Eastern Campus
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Online degree completion program
- For licensed RNs
- Flexible learning format
- Career advancement pathway
- Comprehensive nursing curriculum
Springfield, OH
Wittenberg University
- Bachelor's - RN-BSN Degree Completion
Online Learning - Website
- Online program flexibility.
- 24 semester hours required.
- Focus on nursing leadership.
- Cultural competence in healthcare.
- Health assessment skills.
- Evidence-based practice research.
- Community health nursing concepts.
- Health care informatics.
Tiffin, OH
Heidelberg University
- Bachelor's - RN-BSN Pathway
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online flexible program
- Up to 90 transferable credits
- 8 online baccalaureate nursing courses
- Rolling admissions available
- No clinical presence required
- 27 nursing credits in escrow
- Two clinical component courses
- Designed for working professionals
Toledo, OH
Mercy College of Ohio
- Bachelor's - RN-BSN Nursing Online
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Nursing Courses
- Flexible Start Times
- One-Year Full-Time Completion
- 32-39 Transfer Credits
- MSN Fast Track Option
- Rolling Admissions
- Required Active RN License
- Minimum 2.0 GPA
University of Toledo
- Bachelor's - RN-B.S.N.
Online Learning - Website
- 120 Total Credits
- 100% Online Program
- Competency-Based Education
- Flexible Full/Part-time Options
- Asynchronous Class Instruction
- National Accreditation
- Quality Matters Certified Courses
- Transfer Agreements Available
Warren, OH
Kent State University at Trumbull
- Bachelor's - Nursing for Registered Nurses (RN to BSN)
Online Learning - Website
- Online RN to BSN program
- 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- State-of-the-art nursing lab
- CCNE Accredited Program
- Clinical experiences at local hospitals
- Multiple campus location options
- Competitive nursing sequence
Youngstown, OH
Youngstown State University
- Bachelor's - RN-BSN Online Completion
Online Learning - Website
- Online, accelerated 10-month program
- 28 total credit hours
- $7,700 in-state tuition
- CCNE accredited program
- Designed for working nurses
- Current RN license required
- Minimum 2.0 GPA needed
- Multiple start dates available