Best Online RN to BSN Programs in Rhode Island

The largest portion of the nursing workforce belongs to RNs, with over 2.5 million nurses working in the United States, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. With the profession expected to grow much faster than average, what is the best course of action for a nurse who wishes to advance in their career? Easy – continue working while pursuing the next level in their professional designation, that is, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Many universities offer online and flexible RN to BSN. Nurses can use their experience and ADN degree for credit toward their BSN degrees.

2027 Best Online RN to BSN Programs in Rhode Island

Registerednursing.org has ranked the best online RN to BSN programs in Rhode Island. Online education is a game-changer for nurses who want to advance while balancing work and life. Distance learning allows students to complete coursework on their own schedule, and hybrid or partially online programs are also considered online, expanding the range of choices. These programs help nurses build leadership and patient care skills without relocating or quitting their jobs. The rankings focus on program quality, flexibility, and outcomes. For a detailed look at how these rankings were created, check the methodology: https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/

#1

University of Rhode Island

Kingston, RI - Public 4-Year - web.uri.edu

RN to BSN - RN to BS

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Rhode Island offers an online RN to BS program that emphasizes research-based, compassionate care. Designed for working registered nurses, the curriculum builds upon prior nursing knowledge while fostering critical thinking, leadership, and evidence-based practice. Graduates are prepared for expanded roles in healthcare management and community health. Delivered fully online, the program provides flexibility without sacrificing academic rigor. As part of a recognized New England university, students benefit from a reputable education. The program description does not list ACT or SAT as entrance exam requirements, allowing RNs to focus on advancing their nursing careers.

• Research-based, compassion-focused experience
• Recognized New England university

#2

Salve Regina University

Newport, RI - Private 4-year - salve.edu

RN to BSN - RN to B.S. in Nursing

Online Learning - Visit Website

Salve Regina University offers an online RN to BSN program designed for licensed RNs with an associate degree or diploma. This CCNE-accredited, asynchronous program emphasizes holistic, patient-centered care and ethical practice. Students can complete the 30-credit requirement in as few as 12 months, with 58 transfer credits awarded for prior nursing education. No SAT or ACT is required for admission. The curriculum develops advanced clinical knowledge, leadership, and prepares nurses for roles in hospitals, community health, and school nursing. Six start dates per year, rolling admissions, and military-friendly benefits add flexibility. Graduates may seamlessly transition to Salve's MSN or DNP programs. Tuition is $373 per credit, with financial aid and employer reimbursement supported.

• CCNE accredited
• $373 per credit
• 12-Month program
• 125 total credit hours
• Rolling admissions
• 6 start dates per year
• Starts fall/spring/summer
• Asynchronous online classes
• Military benefits accepted
• Employer reimbursement supported

#3

New England Institute of Technology

East Greenwich, RI - Private 4-year - neit.edu

RN to BSN - RN to BSN

Online Learning - Visit Website

New England Institute of Technology offers a fully online RN to BSN program tailored for working registered nurses. This part-time degree integrates clinical decision-making with healthcare technologies, covering health assessment, pathophysiology, population health, and evidence-based practice. With small classes averaging 15 students, a personal advisor, and the ability to complete the capstone at your workplace, the program maximizes flexibility. It can be finished in 14–15 months, includes 80 clinical hours, and requires no on-campus attendance. ACEN accreditation, a 100% job placement rate, and a Top 50 Best Value Online Nursing Program ranking underscore its quality. The program does not specify ACT or SAT entrance exam requirements. Graduates are prepared for primary care, rehabilitation, and leadership roles, with a pathway to NEIT's MSN program.

• Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
• 15-Month program
• Complete in as little as 14 to 15 months
• Part-time available
• 100% job placement rate
• 2.7 GPA minimum
• 80 clinical hours
• Prerequisite courses required
• Capstone required
• Financial aid available

*Source: U.S. DOE National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2025 collection.

Fast & Affordable Program Options

Nurses looking to develop their educational and professional portfolio often choose to get their bachelor’s degree in nursing as a quick and easy way to transition into higher-paying roles and more job security. While you may be investing several years into your education with a traditional BSN program, an RN to BSN is a much quicker option for nurses with the right credentials saving you both time and money.

Quickest Online RN to BSN Degree Options

With a traditional BSN program, you could be forced to invest in four years (or more) of enrollment time to receive 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 Rhode Island.

Learn more about the Fastest RN to BSN Programs.

Do 6-month RN to BSN Programs Exist?

Yes, but you’ll need to meet several important requirements to be eligible to apply. If you want to graduate from your RN to BSN program in under a year, you’ll need to have at a significant number of transferable credits. Not only that, but your prospective school will also need to accept these credits. Unfortunately, many RN to BSN programs have a cap on how many credits you can transfer so it will be somewhat hard to locate an opportunity for 6-month BSN enrollment.

Affordable Online RN to BSN Options

Another important consideration with any potential nursing program is how much it’s going to cost. A traditional BSN program which requires twice the amount of credits is coming to cost you much more than an RN to BSN program. If you’re eligible to enroll in an RN to BSN program, this puts you at a considerable advantage if your goal is to save as much money as possible. Below are a few of the cheapest RN to BSN programs available in Rhode Island, but as you complete your research, make sure that you consider the other costs involved with education such as textbooks, technology fees, and the cost of living in the area where your potential program is based.

Learn more about the cheapest RN to BSN Degrees.

Admissions Requirements for Accredited RN to BSN Programs

RN to BSN programs have undergone radical expansion in light of our nation’s need for highly qualified nurses. Universities vary in their admissions criteria, but still, there are definitely more similarities than differences in what makes a candidate attractive to nursing faculty. We’ve listed some of the most common criteria below.

• Submit a completed application
• Overall GPA of 3.0 or higher
• Provide a copy of the ADN degree from a regionally accredited school
• Provide a record of current immunizations and ‘negative’ drug screening test
• Have a recent record of clear background check
• Provide current and valid nursing license data

Classes & Courses: What is the Curriculum Like?

Salve Regina University in Newport has been a provider of nursing programs almost since its inception in the 1930s. With its newest online offerings for accredited RN to BSN programming, Salve continues its commitment to the community of Newport to provide quality education and service to residents and guests. A sample of the programming that nurses will be exposed to looks like this:

• Experiential Learning: Aging and End of Life Care
• Public Health and Disaster Response Planning
• Leadership and Management
• Service Learning
• Healthcare Informatics

2026 List of RN to BSN Programs in Rhode Island

Learn about the best RN to BSN in Rhode Island through our rankings below.

Find RN to BSN Programs By City:

• Providence RN to BSN Programs