Best Online RN Programs The Professional Standard for Nurses

With a 100 percent pass rate for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), Newman University prepares nursing graduates to be generalists while laying groundwork for graduate school and specializations. The college offers a few different degree options for current and aspiring RNs. The BSN Program requires a total of 124 credit hours and a GPA of at least 2.0. To be considered for the program, students must first complete 58 semester hours of pre-nursing courses. The university's LPN to BSN Bridge Program is designed for licensed practical nurses looking to earn their bachelor's. It requires 57 hours of completed prerequisite courses. All incoming students are required to take a two-credit hour bridge course to begin the Newman nursing program. Students who earned a nursing degree more than 10 years ago from a Kansas school must validate three required courses (NSG 3011, 3015 and 3053) through exams, have 1,000 hours of nursing work experience in the past three years and a hold a current Kansas license. However, LPN students who graduated from a Kansas school within the past 10 years, have a current Kansas license and are accepted into Newman's nursing program can receive credit for the three courses. Nursing-specific scholarships are available for eligible students through the university.

Lincoln Memorial University's School of Nursing touts a 96 percent employment rate within six to 12 months of graduation. Applicants can choose between the Associate of Science in Nursing Degree (ASN) or the Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. Registered nurses who wish to further their education can enter the RN-BSN degree program if they have earned an (ASN) or diploma in nursing from an accredited institution and have a current nursing license. Graduates of this program should be prepared for professional-level nursing and/or continued graduate studies. Coursework is available completely online to fit into a busy RN's schedule. 49 credit hours of general education requirements can be completed throughout the program instead of before acceptance, which is typically the expectation at other nursing schools. 29 credit hours must be completed for nursing-specific coursework, but currently licensed registered nurses may be able to receive up to 31 upper-level nursing credit hours for work experience if they have been in clinical practice for two years or graduated from a nursing program in the past year, earned a C or better in past nursing classes and have earned 16 credits in the RN-BSN program in the Caylor School of Nursing. Lincoln Memorial's pass rate for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) was 91 percent in 2016.

Ball State University's School of Nursing has earned the National League for Nursing Center of Excellence in Nursing Education designation. The university offers a Baccalaureate Concentration Nursing Program which is an on-campus track that prepares students for licensure and can be completed in four years. Graduates are prepared to work in a variety of settings or pursue graduate degrees. Annual pass rates on the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) are 94 to 100 percent. Ball State Nursing also includes a Degree in 3 program which makes graduation possible in three years, a Second Baccalaureate Degree for students with a bachelor's in a non-nursing field to earn a BSN in 19 months and an LPN to RN on-campus degree. For individuals who need more flexibility, Ball State's Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science (RN to BS) program can be completed online, with the exception of clinical hours. Coursework emphasizes community care and blends rigorous nursing curriculum with liberal arts for a well-rounded education. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and is approved by the Indiana State Board of Nursing. To be admitted, students must have graduated from an accredited nursing program, hold a current nursing license, earned a 2.75 GPA, completed all nursing prerequisites and pass a background check. Ball State considers out-of-state applicants, depending on the state and specific degree program. Working nursing students should find out whether employer assistance is available through their workplace. The nursing school's National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) pass rate has remained above 90 percent in recent years.

Fort Hays State University's nursing program achieved an NCLEX pass rate of 100 percent in 2016. Degree options for aspiring and current RNs include a traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing and an online RN to BSN program. The RN to BSN allows registered nurses to complete their degree entirely online, aside from clinical hours, in about three semesters. Incoming students can enter the program during any semester but must first meet a number of requirements - applicants must hold a current U.S. nursing license, have a GPA of 2.5 or above and transfer courses must be from a regionally accredited school. The school's Department of Nursing does not accept applicants from Tennessee, Utah, Wyoming, Alabama or Washington or international students. Once accepted, students must pass a background check within the first month. RNs may earn Advanced Standing Credit toward their BSN degree by successfully passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). A $25-per-credit charge will be applied to each credit earned in this manner. Several in-state financial aid options are available for Kansas nurses, including the Kansas Nursing Service Scholarship, Kansas State Board of Nursing Undergraduate Scholarship and discounts for Kansas State Nurse Association members' continuing education.

Northern Arizona University School of Nursing has a National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) pass rate of 91, which surpasses several other large Arizona universities as recently as 2015. The school's RN programs include the traditional 4-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing, an Accelerated Nursing (BSN) for those who have a bachelor's degree in another field and an RN to BSN program for current registered nurses pursuing a bachelor's degree. For the RN to BSN, nurses must have an associate degree or diploma in nursing and can transfer previously earned credits toward their BSN, provided they graduated from a state or nationally accredited nursing program. Up to 90 credits can be transferred this way. Courses are available 100 percent online, while clinicals can be completed locally. Applicants must have a current state license; however, students living in or relocating to Alabama, Kentucky, Tennessee or Washington are ineligible to apply. To graduate, accepted students must meet all university requirements, which include 30 upper-division credits, 30 credits taken through Northern Arizona University with 18 at 300-level or above and a GPA of at least 2.0. Students can also take elective courses. A minimum of 120 units is required for graduation.

In 2017, the College of Nursing at University of Rhode Island achieved a 94 percent pass rate for first-time National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) test-takers. Students interested in an RN career can enroll in the traditional four-year on-campus baccalaureate program in nursing. There is also an on-campus RN to BS program for those who have an associate degree or a diploma in nursing and wish to earn their BS. The university's new online RN to BS program allows students to earn a BSN from the comfort of their own home and on their own time. All of the required coursework, except for clinicals, can be done online. This accelerated program can be completed in as few as 15 months, depending on transferable credits and course load. The program cost is $318 per credit hour plus fees. A $1,000 Affiliate Partner Scholarship is offered to online students through the university to qualified nurses working for partner hospitals. The College of Nursing maintains high standards in education - a cumulative GPA of 3.0 for all prerequisites is required of all applicants, and once admitted students must maintain a 2.20 GPA. To graduate, students must have 120 credits, but up to 90 may be transfer credits.

Aurora University's School of Nursing and Allied Health prepares students for the nursing profession through full and part-time programs online and on-campus. The on-campus BSN degree is offered as a traditional BSN as well as an RN to BSN option for those who already have an associate degree or diploma. With AU's Online RN to BSN program, which consists of eight-week courses, students can earn their BSN in three years or as little as 18 months. The RN to BSN program is a great choice for nurses who already have an associate degree or diploma in nursing and have a busy work schedule as it can be completed 100 percent online, aside from clinicals. To graduate, students must have a total of 120 credits, with 30 in the major. The cost per credit is $350. Students should contact the Aurora University financial aid office for information on available assistance. Applicants must have a current nursing license in Wisconsin or Illinois, have practiced in the past five years or taken a refresher course, submit all transcripts from previous higher education institutions and have a GPA of 2.5. All nursing graduates must take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to be eligible for employment. In 2016, the university earned a pass rate of 97 percent on the NCLEX.

University of Northern Colorado's School of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and is approved by the Colorado State Board of Nursing. The school has a pass rate of between 95 and 100 percent for first-time NCLEX test-takers. The traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) requires two years of prerequisite coursework and two years of clinical experiences. For prospective students who already have a bachelor's degree, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN second degree) is a full-time, on-campus program that takes 20 months to complete. For RNs with an associate degree in nursing who wish to keep their full-time jobs while boosting their career and salary potential, the online RN to BSN degree is perfect. There are two online courses per semester for five semesters over 20 months. UNC's online program offers students the ability to communicate with instructors and classmates in real time through a video platform. To apply for the RN to BSN program, applicants must have a C or higher in all prerequisites, two letters of recommendations, a personal essay and a 3.0 GPA for the most recently-earned 45 credits. The cost for the degree program is $450 per credit, and various financial aid options are available to eligible students.

Western Carolina University has an accredited School of Nursing where students can prepare for a nursing career. Degree options include a BSN Pre-Licensure Program, Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) for students who have a bachelor's degree in a field other than nursing and an online RN to BSN Program for RNs who want to enhance their career and salary potential. Graduates can then go on to pursue graduate-level education or higher-paying, specialized RN positions. Students can complete their BSN in four semesters, which would consist of 24 hours of online core classes and six hours of upper division electives. The classes can also be taken on a part-time basis for RNs who are unable to commit to full-time studies. To apply, applicants must earn 60 credits before admission and have a cumulative GPA of 2.5. Prerequisites may be met through liberal studies and School of Nursing studies or through a North Carolina community college nursing program. The liberal studies prerequisites may be waived if the applicant already has an associate degree. Visit the Admission Requirements page to have an adviser review transcripts for potential transfer credits that can be used towards degree completion. 96 percent of Western Carolina's first-time NCLEX test-takers pass the exam. Estimated tuition is $3,500 for in-state residents and $9,500 for out-of-state residents but for the most up-to-date information on tuition and fees, contact the school's Division of Campus Operations and Finance.

Clarkson College boasts a 96 percent pass rate on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). The college's RN to BSN program is created specifically for registered nurses seeking a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Students can attend full-time for three semesters or part-time for six to earn the 28 semester hours required to complete the degree. Coursework is a mix of general education, support courses such as anatomy and gerontology, and major courses such as evidence-based inquiry in health care and population health. Clarkson College also offers a traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing for those who aren't already in the nursing field and want to enter the profession, and an LPN to BSN program for LPNs who want to earn a bachelor's degree to become a registered nurse.

Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, East Carolina University offers nursing degrees at the bachelor's, master's and doctoral level. Their BSN graduates boast an NCLEX first-time pass rate of 95 percent - or even higher. While many nursing students study on campus, ECU's College of Nursing does offer online options for those who need flexibility. One of their most popular online nursing degrees is the RN to BSN program. Because a BSN is becoming more important for a successful nursing career, ECU has made earning a degree easier for registered nurses who are already working. All courses in this program can be completed entirely online. It takes four semesters to complete, with summer courses as a requirement.

Nursing students often attend college with the expectation of landing a job immediately after graduation. Fayetteville State University has structured their undergraduate nursing program with that in mind, and they have reached a 100 percent job placement rate for students after graduation. A big part of why all students get positions is their NCLEX pass rates - in 2017, 93 percent of students passed the NCLEX on their first try. Because Fayetteville is home to many RNs and has a huge demand for nurses with four-year degrees, FSU offers an RN to BSN program that is among the top in North Carolina. Students who take this program can earn their degree in as little as 2.5 semesters if they study full time. However, part time options are also available for those who want to continue working while earning their BSN.

Among the best regional schools in the South, King University is a Christian college that brings faith into all their academic programs. The nursing school at King is no exception as they've adopted the holistic approach for all their programs. This can be seen in their BSN program, and the holistic approach is a large reason why many students land a job at their first-choice employer upon graduation. There are three ways to become an RN at King University: the traditional BSN, the RN to BSN and the online RN to BSN. The campus-based RN to BSN program can be completed at one of seven different locations across Tennessee, and has a rolling admission calendar, so students can apply at any time. The online RN to BSN program, on the other hand, can be studied from anywhere with internet access and requires 124 semester hours. This program can be completed in as little as 16 months.

One of the most important considerations when picking a school is its reputation. Cumberland University is recognized as one of the top schools in Middle Tennessee and is known for placing nursing students in the jobs of their choice. All nursing programs are fully accredited and approved by the Tennessee Board of Nursing, and Cumberland receives ample seed money for student scholarships and education supplies. The school offers a traditional BSN degree, a masters of science in nursing, which is available online as well, and for students who want to earn a BSN but are already registered nurses, the online RN to BSN program is an excellent option. One of the most popular programs at the nursing school, this can be completed in just 12 months. Also, since the program is entirely online, students can study at whatever pace suits them best.

Recent Bethel University nursing graduates have the distinction of achieving a 100 percent pass rate on the NCLEX exam. Passing the exam is the final hurdle for students aiming to earn licensure as a registered nurse. In addition to a traditional on-campus BSN program, Bethel University also offers a fully online RN to BSN program for students who have already passed the NCLEX exam. These students must be graduates of an associate in nursing or a diploma program and must be current registered nurses. The RN to BSN program is designed to take nursing students to the next level in their judgement, capabilities and career potential. The program is comprised of a total 124 credits, with 32 core bachelor of science credits. Fifty-five credits are general education prerequisites and 37 credit hours are earned at the associate degree level. As each student's prior education experience is different, program duration depends on individualized needs. Classes for this online program begin every 10 weeks, giving students five potential start dates per year.

Nursing students at the Tennessee Technological University can earn their BSN on-campus or right from home through the school's online RN to BSN degree program. Graduates from TTU's four-year nursing degree program have maintained a pass rate on the NCLEX exam of 95 percent or higher. Students who have previously taken and passed the NCLEX exam as part of an associate in nursing degree program are permitted to enroll in the fully online RN to BSN program. This program is flexible and allows credits from general education and some upper division classes completed at the associate level to transfer over into the bachelor program. Because RN to BSN students may already have work experience in nursing, credit hours for their real life experience can also be credited to their bachelor's degree. By working to tailor coursework to each student's education and work experience, TTU aims to help students complete their degree faster. Tennessee residents enrolled in this program may finish a BSN with more money in their pockets, though out-of-state students can expect to pay nearly double the tuition rate. To help with high costs of college, a number of scholarship opportunities are available to TTU nursing students.

Appalachian State University, one of 12 University of North Carolina schools, provides a comprehensive education aimed at promoting a sustainable future. RN students can complete their entire degree online. The RN to BSN program is fashioned for nurses wishing to pursue their Bachelor of Science in Nursing and, while the degree requires 124 credits for graduation, some of those will be covered by previous nursing experience. Classes are offered part-time, which fits a busy work schedule, and include online instruction in the format of discussion forums, quizzes, papers, case study analyses and lectures. Nursing credits earned elsewhere will not transfer to Appalachian State; however, other prerequisites may be able to transfer, pending review. In addition to traditional forms of financial aid, all nursing students are eligible for Forgivable Education Loans for Service, which is a program offered by the North Carolina legislature for critical job shortages in the field. The RN to BSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

University of Memphis boasts one of the lowest tuition rates in Tennessee. Its RN to BSN program, designed for nurses who have already completed an associate's degree and wish to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing, is offered on a full-time or part-time basis. The 31 necessary credits may be completed within four academic years or as quickly as one year. Up to four credits may be earned through previous nursing experience. Examples of allowances include new graduate residency, national nursing certification, professionally recognized continuing education credits, clinical teaching in higher education, scholarly presentations and publications, clinical project leadership, and leadership in professional nursing or healthcare organization. In addition, credit by examination (CBE) allows nursing students to earn college credit by passing an exam at the national proficiency mark for three courses: Health Assessment & Lab, Pathophysiology and Pharmacology. The Loewenberg College of Nursing's individualized learning offers a flexible 24/7 education via eCourseware, the university's web-based instructional program, an invaluable resource for busy nurses pursuing their higher education.

Located in South Carolina, Anderson University offers various majors and concentrations leading to bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees. When it comes to nursing, AU's Christ-centered perspective contributes to a student's understanding of compassionate patient care. AU's online Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) degree was created for students who already hold a bachelor degree in another field, or have taken up to 59 hours of college credits. The ABSN can be completed in 15 months. In 2017, 98 percent of AU nursing graduates passed the NCLEX. Registered nurses seeking advancement may enroll in AU's online RN to BSN Completion (RN-BSN) Program. Applicants must provide their nursing license and transcripts indicating they have maintained a 2.75 GPA in previous ADN schooling. Online classes are as short as five weeks in duration. At the graduate level, AU offers an online master's degree (with four concentrations) intended to be completed in 15 months, or an online nursing doctoral degree in 36 months.

Lander University, located in Greenwood, South Carolina, was founded in 1872 by Methodist clergyman Samuel Lander as a college for women. Today, Lander University serves 3,000 students with professional programs in nursing, education and business. The William Preston Turner School of Nursing made Lander one of the first universities in the state to offer an online RN to BSN degree program. Its graduates have averaged a 95 percent passing rate on the NCLEX-RN for the last five years. The RN to BSN completion option at Lander is comprised of 126 total semester hours, 30 of which must be undertaken at the school of nursing. The program emphasizes management and leadership, community health and research. Graduate students can complete an online Master of Science in Nursing, Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL). Applicants to the online CNL program must be a graduate of a baccalaureate nursing program with an overall grade point average of 3.0. The school and nursing program are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

North Carolina Central University is America's first public liberal arts postsecondary school founded for African Americans. More than 8,000 students attend the school that is located in Durham, North Carolina's fourth most-populated city. The majority of the students at North Carolina Central are undergraduate students. An online and a traditional registered nurse to bachelor's in science nursing degree are offered at the school. The nursing distance program is fully online. The only time that nursing majors need to come to campus is to complete a preceptorship or a practicum. Students need a nursing diploma or associate's degree to enter the program that is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. It's possible to complete an accelerated version of the nursing program within 14 months. Whether they take the traditional, online or accelerated track, students should know that community is big at North Carolina Central University. Students must complete at least 120 hours of community service to graduate.

The University of South Alabama is a Gulf Coast school that stretches across 1,200 acres. Founded in 1963, the school is known for its health programs. Nursing majors get-hands on experience while completing internships at the university's medical center, women's hospital or cancer institute. Students seeking the registered nurse bachelor's degree have the option of taking classes on campus or online. A master's in nursing and a doctorate in nursing are also offered. Each of the programs is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Specializations within the graduate nursing programs include family psychiatric, clinical nurse specialist, women's health nurse practitioner, clinical nurse leader and executive nurse administrator. Lunch and learns and alumni events like the College of Nursing Community Awards offer students networking and continual learning opportunities.

Admission to the nursing program at Plymouth State University (PSU) is competitive, with a maximum of 40 students being admitted in each cohort. This is typically a four-year program, with full-time enrollment, although students may be able to finish sooner by transferring in prerequisite and general education credits. With an emphasis on hands-on learning, students are required to complete nursing-specific courses on campus but can choose to complete prerequisite and general education courses online. PSU also offers a RN to BS Pathway program for students with a current RN license, or for those holding an AS degree in nursing from a New Hampshire community college and NCLEX-RN eligibility. This is a flexible and affordable option, as it allows students to complete most of their nursing degrees at a community college, including their third year, with the final few upper-level nursing courses at PSU. For increased affordability, students can find several general scholarships through PSU, along with several specific to nursing students.

Towson University offers three degree track options leading to a BS in nursing, including a BS with a nursing major, for students with non-nursing bachelor's degrees. The Associate-to-Bachelor's track is an accelerated program, with completion in two and a half years for students that have earned an AA in nursing at one of Towson's partner community colleges. This is a dual enrollment program, which means students will be completing their AA degrees at a community college while simultaneously earning their BS in nursing degree through Towson. The RN to BS track allows up to 90 transfer credits and can be completed with either part or full-time enrollment, which is great for students already working in the nursing field. Nursing courses are mostly face-to-face, with web-enhanced, hybrid and online classes mixed in. Students will have clinical rotations throughout the Baltimore and West Maryland area, with opportunities at top research institutions such as John Hopkins and The University of Maryland Medical Center.

While East Tennessee State University is one of the largest nursing schools in Tennessee, they don't sacrifice the quality of their education to support large class sizes. With an NCLEX pass rate of nearly 95% in 2017, East Tennessee continues to cement their place as one of the top nursing schools in Tennessee. East Tennessee is also one of the most affordable nursing degree programs in the state. To make earning a BSN even more affordable, East Tennessee offers an RN to BSN program that offers students a quick way to earn their bachelor's degree. Applications are accepted each semester, and students can study on a two, three, five or nine semester track to earn their degree. The RN to BSN program is offered entirely online, so students won't be forced to commute to campus for classes and can study at their own pace.

As the name insinuates, Texas Woman's University began primarily as a college for women. However, they have since become more well-known for their nursing school which is available to both women and men. TWU's nursing school has become recognized as one of the top nursing programs in the nation. There are three locations in Texas where students can study toward their nursing degree – Denton, Dallas and Houston – as well as a robust study abroad program and an online school for specific degrees. One online option in the nursing school is the RN to BSN program. This 100% online program allows students to continue working while they earn the degree, something that is not offered with all RN to BSN programs.

Considered to be one of the top nursing schools in West Virginia, Shepherd University maintains a small class size of approximately 20 students, and its nursing education program is its most popular offering. As Shepherd has continued to grow, they've added DNP, MSN and nurse practitioner programs, all in addition to their flagship BSN program. In addition to their traditional BSN program, Shepherd offers an RN to BSN option, available to nurses who have ample professional experience. This program can be studied in either a full time or part time format, depending on what fits the student's needs best. Also, anyone who graduates with a BSN from this program is guaranteed to have the same quality of education as traditional BSN graduates.

To help prepare students to fill the expected shortage of nurses in the coming years, Wichita State University has grown into the second-largest nursing school in Kansas. Also, to make sure that all students have the means to earn a degree, WSU provides six different programs that lead to a BSN. One program of note is their RN to BSN option, available to anyone who has already received an associate degree and is a registered nurse. RNs can study toward their BSN in either a full time or part time format, and if studying full time can complete their degree in as little as 12 months. The RN to BSN program is also completely online, allowing students to study at their own convenience from anywhere with internet access. In-state tuition is also offered to all students in this program regardless of whether they are Kansas residents or not.

Midwestern State University has become a leader in nursing education in Texas, largely due to their different options of studies. Nursing students at all levels – ranging from no experience to full-time, working RNs – have various options for earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). One of the most popular BSN options is the RN to BSN program, a 100 percent online degree that many students complete in as little as three semesters. Students in this program can begin during the fall, spring or summer term. Courses are offered in 8- or 16-week periods for fall and spring, and 5- or 10-week periods for summer. This program is fully accredited, and it carries the same respect as a traditional, on-campus BSN from Midwestern.

No matter what stage of nursing education you're in, the University of Southern Indiana has programs that are likely to fit your needs. With high NCLEX pass rates, USI has established itself as a consistent presence in nursing education, and many students go on to have long, successful nursing careers. There are well over a dozen degrees offered in the school of nursing, although there are only two undergraduate options: a traditional BSN and RN to BSN program. USI's RN to BSN program offers 8-week classes, all of which are entirely online. Transfer credits are accepted by USI as well, allowing students with previous credits to avoid repeating classes and save money. In all, 120 credits are required to earn a BSN, but many RNs have enough prior education to significantly reduce this number.

Among the top up and coming schools in their region for nursing, the University of North Alabama offers different programs that suit the needs of nursing students at all levels. Their undergraduate programs, which are the most popular among current nursing students at UNA, prepare students for the NCLEX and their career as a nurse. Perhaps the most popular undergraduate degree option is the RN to BSN program which is designed to improve a nurse's career outlook while also remaining affordable. All classes in the RN to BSN program are online, and all necessary resources can be accessed online as well. To keep the program affordable, non-resident fees are waived, making it a cheap way to earn a BSN. For students who want to continue, an online BSN to MSN program is also available, allowing RNs to study toward a master's degree entirely online.

The first thing that stands out about Pittsburg State University's nursing program is their 97.26% NCLEX pass rate for 2017. They credit the high pass rate to their attention to each student's education, making sure that nobody is left behind. Another factor that plays into their high pass rate is the quality of their BSN programs. One of their BSN programs, the RN to BSN program, allows registered nurses to study toward the same BSN as traditional Pittsburg State students, only they can earn their degree in less time. With both full time and part time options available, RN to BSN students will be able to create a schedule that works best for them, all while studying entirely online and without the need to be supervised during hospital clinics.

The Western Illinois University school of nursing offers three nursing programs: a pre-nursing, a pre-licensure and an RN to BSN program. The pre-nursing and pre-licensure programs are for students who have the general education necessary for a degree but haven't taken nursing courses yet, allowing them a quick way to earn a BSN. The RN to BSN program is for registered nurses who want to continue their education and earn a degree to further their career. This program is offered entirely online, and any students enrolled should plan on taking close to a full course load each semester. While some students may prefer the flexibility of a part time program, Western Illinois' RN to BSN program ensures that students complete their degree in a timely manner, with some students finishing in about one year.

Lees-McRae College is quickly gaining a reputation as one of the top regional nursing schools in the south, and they've invested over a million dollars into updating their nursing program with state-of-the-art technology. Their main program is a BSN, which prepares students to take the NCLEX. Their nursing school also offers other programs, such as the RN to BSN option, which can be completed on campus or online. This option is for registered nurses who want to improve their career, and it can be completed in as little as two years. Depending on how much experience the RN has coming into the program, different amounts of class credit will be rewarded, reducing the time and cost of schooling. While this program primarily prepares students to further their career, many Lees-McRae graduates go on to continue their education toward an MSN or DNP.

Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, the bachelor's degree programs in nursing at Fitchburg State University are recognized for their quality. Because of their long history with nursing, Fitchburg has also gained national respect for their undergraduate programs. Perhaps the highlight of their undergrad options is the RN to BSN program, an entirely online program that can be completed in as little as 12 months. Students in this program take courses in seven week periods, allowing them to study at their own pace. The total tuition cost for this program is relatively inexpensive, one reason why this is such a sought-after program. The RN to BSN program is designed for nurses who want to advance their careers, so brevity and low cost are important – and Fitchburg State provides both.

Professional development is one of the central focuses of MacMurray College's nursing school. While some students do go on to study toward a graduate degree after earning their BSN, many students opt to begin their career as a nurse. However, some students already have experience as a nurse. RNs who want to further their career might be interested in MacMurray College's RN to BSN program. This is perhaps the fastest RN to BSN program in the nation as it can be completed in just 10 months, and all courses are entirely online. Also, students will only be required to take courses related to nursing, so they won't have to pay for extra education they may not need. MacMurray is also one the cheapest schools in Illinois in which to attain an RN to BSN, largely due to the quickness of the program.

With over 2,000 current nursing students, Indiana Wesleyan University is one of the largest nursing schools in the region. There are three main campuses for the nursing school, as well as an online portal and different sites across Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky. Indiana Wesleyan takes advantage of their different campuses and locations and uses it to their advantage. For example, the RN to BSN program can be completed entirely on campus, entirely online or through a hybrid of the two, depending on what the student prefers. The RN to BSN program is primarily for adult learners who want to study at their own pace while advancing their career, and it can usually be completed in 15 months or less.

Since opening in 1963, Indiana State University's nursing school has grown into three distinct departments: advanced practice nursing, baccalaureate nursing and baccalaureate completion nursing. The separation is necessary to give each student better access to materials they need; for example, an undergraduate student might want more on-campus aide while graduate students would be more interested in experience and research. For baccalaureate nursing completion, students can choose between LPN to BSN or RN to BSN. The RN to BSN option is the among the most popular options in the school of nursing. The program combines both online and in-person courses, allowing students to study at home and learn at local clinics. No on-campus courses are required, though, so students only have to commute to local clinics.

Schreiner University's BSN Program is the definition of a flexible education. Students can choose a 4-year traditional BSN program or those who are already RNs can enroll in the university's online RN to BSN program. The coursework is available 100 percent online with no clinicals and can take as little as one year to finish. Unlike other colleges and universities, Schreiner does not require prerequisites. RN to BSN courses are set up in seven-week increments with five start dates per year. Adding a little more flexibility to the online learning, students may pick study-abroad electives or earn credit for certifications already possessed. The school participates in Schreiner Premier partner healthcare providers, which is a tuition-discount program for students connected to specific employers throughout Texas. Veterans may also qualify for Premier. With this discount, the RN to BSN program would cost $8,540 for 31 credits. Program applicants must maintain a 2.5 GPA or above, have an associate's degree in nursing (ADN) from an accredited college and have a current U.S. nursing license.

Columbus State University ranks among the top Southern regional universities with special focus on its online health professions programs. Bachelors of Science in Nursing and Bachelor of Science in Nursing RN to BSN are both offered to those desiring a career in nursing. While those who are not nurses would prefer the traditional BSN, registered nurses looking to earn their Bachelor of Science in nursing degree can complete coursework for the degree completely online, with only clinicals to be completed in-person at clinics local to the student's geographical area. The option to finish the program in one year through seven-week course sessions gives added convenience to the learning environment. To promote a competitive spirit, in-state Georgia residents and out-of-state students are charged the same tuition: $8,120 plus fees, calculated by the cost per credit hour. Out-of-state students, however, should email the university to be sure Columbus State is allowed to provide specific programs for that state. Applicants must have a current nursing license, submit all transcripts, make at least a 2.5 GPA in nursing and earn a C or better in all sciences and labs.

College of Coastal Georgia owns the distinction of a 100 percent passage rate on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) four years in a row by first-time nursing exam-takers. The college also ranks 1 of 2,086 for its BSN program. CCGA has both a traditional Bachelor Concentration in Pre-licensure BSN Program and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Concentration in RN to BSN for registered nurses who already hold a Georgia license and have earned either an associate's degree or diploma in nursing. RNs choose from three-, six- or nine-semester degree completion options, for which classes are taught totally online. Clinical studies, however, are evaluated in person. Students must keep a 2.0 GPA in required classes. Sixty credits are required in nursing courses, but once two of the courses are finished successfully, 30 credit hours will be applied to the transcript.

Francis Marion University hosts two RN to BSN programs: One is for registered nurses, and the other is for veteran nurses. Incoming students must meet a host of requirements. To meet entry requirements for the university, applicants need an associate's degree or diploma in nursing and an RN certification. Program courses are offered solely online and better prepare nurses for advancement in the ever-changing health care field. For the RN to BSN, 30 semester hours, required in addition to general studies credits, can be finished in 11 months on a full-time schedule. Nursing courses may be taken concurrently with general studies. The RN to BSN for Veterans is set up differently; instead of taking a specific required nursing course, the veterans can join a one-day simulation of the class, which accounts for a tenth of the RN to BSN course load. Veterans will be evaluated by through a set of situations including triage, a substance-abusing co-worker, an end-of-life situation and an ESL family with a medication error. The program is available to honorably discharged military who have an associate degree in nursing. On the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), Francis Marion has 97 percent passage rate for first-time test-takers or 100 percent for passing within the second try.

Bemidji State University offers both a four-year track traditional on-campus BS degree and a hybrid learning environment for those pursuing an RN to BS degree. Registered nurses experience education through both online and on-campus courses and local off-campus projects and clinicals. Recently, an almost fully online study option was added to the docket that requires its students to attend campus in-person just twice in the first semester. Bemidji State accommodates learners who wish to study full-time or part-time and meet on one of the six campuses three times each semester under the hybrid option. Applicants must have a state-approved associate's degree or nursing diploma, a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or above and an active nursing license or be within one semester of obtaining one. Once accepted, students must maintain a 2.25 GPA and complete 36 credits within the major. Prospective students can calculate their estimated tuition online. The university provides access to a handful of scholarships and grants specifically designed for distance-education students.

Georgia College and State University provides a traditional BSN program and an RN-BSN flexible learning option for registered nurses seeking a bachelor's degree in nursing. The RN to BSN program offers asynchronous classes, which are accessible 24/7 with no specific log-in times, to better fit around a busy nurse's professional life. The degree can be finished totally online within one year, and 100 percent of graduates are employed after graduation. Orientation, exams and presentations may be offered in-person but attendance is not mandatory. Online students have access to a degree-specific adviser and a program coordinator. RNs with an associate's degree will earn six credits for a specific course. To apply, students must have completed all of their prerequisites, including U.S. and Georgia history courses. Georgia State's BSN programs are accredited by the Georgia Board of Nursing and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

University of West Georgia prepares its nursing students to earn their license, touting a 90 percent passage rate on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) in recent years. The university's Bachelor of Science in Nursing can be earned in six semesters at The Carrollton campus and eight semesters at the Newnan campus. The traditional programs offered on these campuses are for students who have never been licensed as an RN. For registered nurses who already have a nursing license but want to get ahead in the field with a bachelor's degree, the RN to Bachelor of Science Degree Program is now offered completely online via asynchronous classes. Students can earn up to 60 hours of prerequisite credit through transfers and licensure. Credit by examination may be an option, but students should contact their adviser for more information. A virtual orientation is required, and RNs must take 17 semester hours in fall and spring. The university may accept students outside of Georgia, but this is dependent on the specific state and its requirements. New students are admitted only once a year in the fall semester, which begins in August.

Winona State University provides a quality education for registered nurses pursuing a bachelor's, as the university's nursing program consistently meets or exceeds the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) guidelines, and 96 percent of recent grads are employed. The Pre-Licensure Nursing Program is a traditional 4-year program for students without previous nursing education or a nursing license. WSU also offers an RN to BS Completion Program which includes full-time or part-time options to complete the mandatory 30 upper-level credits, with full-timers earning their degree within one year and part-timers earning their degree with a two-, three- or four-year plan. Courses may be taken fully online or in a hybrid format, with required clinical practice hours at the university's numerous local partners. Applicants must meet or exceed a 2.75 GPA and possess a current nursing license. Students in Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota and South Dakota pay $244 per credit plus extra online and nursing fees. The Financial Aid office can help students prepare for the education costs.

The University of Alabama's BSN degree can be earned with two different program choices. The Nursing BSN is a traditional program for students who do not have nursing education or experience while the RN to BSN program is perfect for working registered nurses, who can complete the coursework totally online on their own time. Clinicals must be completed in-person but may be done in the student's community. RNs may enroll full-time or part-time to earn their 25 higher-level nursing credits, and the university offers fall, spring and summer start times. Applicants must have an associate degree or diploma in nursing. The tuition per credit hour is $355. Nurses who know they want to pursue a master's degree in nursing after their BSN may enroll in the accelerated RN to BSN/MSN program, which allows students to apply early for acceptance in the master's program. The difference is students must enroll full-time for this option, and there is only one summer program start. The program is designed to shorten the time it takes to achieve a master's degree in nursing. A number of financial aid options are available, including several scholarships specifically designed for nursing and distance education students.