As a nurse, the surest path to more income is to upgrade your skills and qualifications through the pursuit of a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. Throughout the state, and nationally, many opportunities exist for RNs to capitalize on their training, education, and experience to fast track through an RN to BSN program. With a degree in hand, more job opportunities will arise regularly.

2027 Best Online RN to BSN Programs in Wisconsin

Registerednursing.org ranks the best online RN to BSN programs in Wisconsin, and for good reason. Online programs offer working nurses the flexibility to advance their education without putting their careers on hold. Many programs use distance learning to deliver coursework, making it easier to balance job and family. It's important to note that hybrid and partially online programs are also considered online in our rankings. This means nurses can find a format that fits their schedule, whether fully virtual or with occasional campus visits. These options help address the state's growing need for more educated nurses. To see how we evaluate programs, check out our methodology at https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/.
#1

University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire

Eau Claire, WI - Public 4-Year - uwec.edu

RN to BSN - BSN Completion Program

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

UW-Eau Claire's hybrid online BSN completion program lets working RNs earn a bachelor's degree in two years. Courses run in 7- and 14-week sessions covering research, evidence-based practice, leadership, management, and information management, including Foundations of Professional Nursing and Community Health Nursing. A 90-hour clinical project offers hands-on experience in diverse settings. Graduates are ready for roles like nurse manager, clinical coordinator, or public health nurse, often in Magnet hospitals. The CCNE-accredited program features a 99% NCLEX-RN pass rate and rolling admissions. With employer partners such as Mayo Clinic and Marshfield Clinic, graduates see an average starting salary of $79,442.

  • CCNE accredited
  • 2-Year program
  • Rolling admissions
  • Synchronous and asynchronous options
  • 99% licensure pass rate
  • 90 clinical hours
  • Capstone required
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Work-school balance and flexible scheduling
  • Unique opportunity for ADN students
#2

Viterbo University

La Crosse, WI - Private 4-year - viterbo.edu

RN to BSN - BSN Completion

Online Learning - Visit Website

Viterbo University’s online RN to BSN completion program offers working registered nurses a flexible, accredited pathway to a bachelor’s degree. Delivered fully online or in a hybrid format, this CCNE-accredited program has been preparing nurses for over 25 years. Students complete 43 credit hours in as little as one year or up to three years, with seven-week course sessions and full-time or part-time enrollment. The curriculum focuses on leadership, evidence-based practice, public health, and organizational systems, with a capstone experience. Up to 70+ credits transfer from prior nursing education, and clinical placements are arranged near the student’s home. Tuition is $480 per credit with $0 application fee, and financial aid is available. Religious affiliation is Roman Catholic, and the program is military-friendly. Admission requires a minimum 2.3 GPA; ACT or SAT scores are not required per available information.

  • CCNE accredited
  • $480 per credit
  • Complete in within one year, 18 months, or three years
  • 43 total credit hours
  • Full-time and part-time options
  • 2.3 GPA minimum
  • Capstone required
  • $0 application fee
  • Financial aid available
  • Respected program for 25+ years
#3

Bellin College

Green Bay, WI - Private 4-year - bellincollege.edu

RN to BSN - RN to BSN completion program

Online Learning - Visit Website

Bellin College offers an online RN to BSN completion program designed for practicing registered nurses seeking career advancement. The curriculum can be completed in two years and builds on existing nursing knowledge to prepare graduates for the evolving healthcare landscape, where BSN credentials are increasingly linked to better patient outcomes. The program emphasizes comprehensive nursing education to meet community healthcare needs. Applications are accepted for a January entry. No ACT or SAT entrance exam requirements are listed; applicants should contact the Admissions Office for specific admission criteria and program structure details.

  • Online program delivery
  • Two-year completion time
  • January entry start
  • BSN degree awarded
  • For registered nurses
  • Career advancement focus
  • Admissions Office contact available
#4

University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point

Stevens Point, WI - Public 4-Year - uwsp.edu

RN to BSN - RN to BSN

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point offers an RN to BSN completion program designed for registered nurses with an associate degree or diploma. Delivered in a hybrid format blending online coursework with limited on-campus sessions, the curriculum comprises 31 credits, including six core courses, two electives, and a capstone project. Students delve into leadership, nursing theory, and clinical practice across acute, community, and ambulatory settings, preparing for roles in management and specialized care. This collaborative program involves five other UW System schools, expanding networking opportunities. Admission requires Wisconsin residency, an active RN license, and a minimum 2.5 GPA; no ACT or SAT scores are necessary. The program is military-friendly and supports career advancement in diverse healthcare environments.

  • 31 total credit hours
  • 2.5 GPA minimum
  • Capstone required
  • Collaboration with six UW System schools
  • Curriculum includes 6 core courses, 2 electives, capstone
  • Prepares for leadership roles in diverse settings
  • Requires Wisconsin residency and RN licensure
  • For RNs with associate degree or diploma
#5

Lakeland University

Plymouth, WI - Private 4-year - lakeland.edu

RN to BSN - RN to BSN Completion Program

Online Learning - Visit Website

Lakeland University's online RN to BSN Completion Program is tailored for licensed RNs with an associate degree seeking to elevate their practice. Delivered 100% online, this CCNE-accredited curriculum emphasizes patient-centered care, evidence-based practice, informatics, and population health, while fostering critical thinking and ethical leadership. Coursework aligns with AACN Essentials, preparing graduates for diverse roles including nurse educator, health coach, clinical research nurse, and health policy nurse. At $440 per credit, the program offers an affordable path, with up to 90 transfer credits, a $1,000 scholarship for associate degree holders, and employer tuition reimbursement. No ACT or SAT entrance exams are required for admission, making it convenient for working nurses. Wisconsin residents may also receive one tuition-free nursing course.

  • CCNE accredited
  • $440 per credit
  • 2.0 GPA minimum
  • Employer reimbursement supported
  • Financial aid available
  • Scholarships available
  • Transfer up to 90 credits
  • One tuition-free nursing course for WI grads
  • $1,000 scholarship for associate degree holders
  • 20% tuition savings available
*IPEDS 2025 survey data, provided by NCES, U.S. Department of Education.

Fast & Affordable Program Options

Two things you can certainly look forward to when you enroll in an RN to BSN program are the short amount of time it takes to graduate and the substantial affordability that these programs offer. If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to elevate your nursing portfolio, an RN to BSN is a great option.

Fastest Online RN to BSN Degree Options

A traditional RN to BSN program will require at least 4 years of dedicated study, but if you have your nursing license already and an associate degree in nursing, you can graduate with your BSN in two years or less. Here are a few of the fastest RN to BSN programs in the State of Wisconsin.

SchoolDegree NameLength
Marian University of WisconsinOnline RN to BSN1 Year
University of WisconsinOnline RN to BSN1 Year

Learn more about the Fastest RN to BSN Programs.

Do 6-month RN to BSN Programs Exist?

In some rare cases, you may be able to find an RN to BSN program that allows you to graduate in under a year or even six months, though this will be mostly dependent on how many credits you are allowed to transfer. In cases where most of your ADN/ASN credits transfer to your RN to BSN program, you could conceivably graduate with your degree in 6 months. If you think that you may qualify, check with your prospective school’s registrar.

Affordable Online RN to BSN Options

Speed is a considerable factor for busy nurses looking to level up their educational credentials, but another important consideration is the cost. Most students understand that you will need to shell out at least a few thousand dollars, but with an RN to BSN, you may be able to get away with paying $10,000 or less, especially if you are applying as a Wisconsin resident or an online student. Below are a few options for low-cost RN to BSN programs in the state.

SchoolDegree NameTuition Cost
University of WisconsinOnline RN to BSN$482.89 per credit (Resident)

$1,707.80 per credit (Non-Resident)

Concordia University of WisconsinRN to BSN$490 per credit

Learn more about Affordable RN to BSN Degrees.

See Related Articles

Admissions Requirements for Accredited RN to BSN Programs

Most RNs are familiar with college and university entrance procedures however we’ve compiled a list of the most common entry requirements for those nurses who wish to continue to achieve their BSN. Below is a list of the documents and procedures you may encounter as you apply to an accredited university to finish your degree.

  • Gain admittance to your university of choice
  • Provide transcripts that show a GPA of 2.8 or greater
  • Provide documentation of immunizations to date
  • Have a ‘negative’ security background check
  • Submit a professional resume and references

Classes & Courses: What is the Curriculum Like?

Offered through the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, the school’s RN to BSN completion program is designed to assist practicing nurses who have an associate’s degree to achieve their Bachelor of Science in nursing. Program collaborators consist of six universities across the state of Wisconsin. Students can expect to find the courses below among others that will prepare them for their expanded role:

  • CND 407 Foundations of Professional Nursing Practice
  • CND 441 Chronic Care Management
  • CND 453 Information & Healthcare Technology
  • CND 454 Community Health Nursing

2026 List of RN to BSN Programs in Wisconsin

Wisconsin's best accredited RN to BSN programs are listed below.

Find RN to BSN Programs By City:

Browse Our List of Programs

We've put together a handy list of programs from schools across the country. The table below shows each school's city and state, program highlights, and direct links to their program pages. Take a moment to browse through the options. Click on any link to see detailed information. This makes it easy to compare schools and find the right program for your needs.
Jump to City:

Brookfield, WI

Ottawa University-Milwaukee

  • RN to BSN - Nursing (RN-BSN)

    Online Learning - Website

    • Accelerated eight-week course terms
    • 100% online learning format
    • Minimum 2.5 GPA requirement
    • Two letters of recommendation required
    • Criminal background check required
    • Negative drug screen required
    • Career statement required
    • CCNE accredited program

Eau Claire, WI

University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire

  • RN to BSN - BSN Completion Program

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CCNE accredited
    • 2-Year program
    • Rolling admissions
    • Synchronous and asynchronous options
    • 99% licensure pass rate
    • 90 clinical hours
    • Capstone required
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN

Fond Du Lac, WI

Marian University

  • RN to BSN - RN to BSN Online Completion Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • $295 per credit
    • 3-Semester program
    • 100% online learning experience
    • Designed for working RNs
    • Leadership and evidence-based practice
    • Open to RNs in all 50 states
    • Values-based pathway
    • Faculty are practicing nurses

Green Bay, WI

Bellin College

  • RN to BSN - RN to BSN completion program

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program delivery
    • Two-year completion time
    • January entry start
    • BSN degree awarded
    • For registered nurses
    • Career advancement focus
    • Admissions Office contact available

Rasmussen University-Wisconsin

  • RN to BSN - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • CCNE-accredited program.
    • Finish in 12-18 months.
    • Online courses with in-person clinicals.
    • $345 per credit tuition.
    • 70 total credit hours required.
    • 17 courses to complete.
    • Transfer up to 134 credits.
    • Eight start dates per year.

University of Wisconsin-Green Bay

  • RN to BSN - RN to BSN

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 3 concentration options
    • 120 total credit hours
    • 2.5 GPA minimum
    • Three delivery tracks available
    • 60 transfer credits accepted
    • Online tracks for Wisconsin and national
    • Block-scheduled courses
    • Doctorally prepared faculty

La Crosse, WI

Viterbo University

  • RN to BSN - BSN Completion

    Online Learning - Website

    • CCNE accredited
    • $480 per credit
    • Complete in within one year, 18 months, or three years
    • 43 total credit hours
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • 2.3 GPA minimum
    • Capstone required
    • $0 application fee

Milwaukee, WI

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

  • RN to BSN - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, State of Wisconsin Board of Nursing accredited
    • 120 total credit hours
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • 2.5 GPA minimum
    • 60 clinical hours
    • Capstone required
    • Two flexible learning modes
    • Competency-based assessments available

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Flex

  • RN to BSN - NURSING (RN TO BSN)

    Online Learning - Website

    • 60 credits required
    • Competency-based program
    • Online delivery format
    • Monthly start dates
    • Flat-rate tuition options
    • All-You-Can-Learn $2250
    • Single Course Option $1125
    • Flex Tuition Guarantee

Plymouth, WI

Lakeland University

  • RN to BSN - RN to BSN Completion Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • CCNE accredited
    • $440 per credit
    • 2.0 GPA minimum
    • Employer reimbursement supported
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available
    • Transfer up to 90 credits
    • One tuition-free nursing course for WI grads

Stevens Point, WI

University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point

  • RN to BSN - RN to BSN

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 31 total credit hours
    • 2.5 GPA minimum
    • Capstone required
    • Collaboration with six UW System schools
    • Curriculum includes 6 core courses, 2 electives, capstone
    • Prepares for leadership roles in diverse settings
    • Requires Wisconsin residency and RN licensure
    • For RNs with associate degree or diploma
*From: U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS 2025 dataset. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/