Interested in becoming a nurse or advancing your registered nursing career? Earning an online bachelor's of science in nursing (BSN) offers flexibility and convenience compared to on-campus programs. If you need to balance personal responsibilities or continue working while attending school, pursuing your nursing bachelor’s online can help you achieve your goals on your schedule.
Explore our rankings of the top online BSN programs to find a school that best fits your needs.
We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best ADN-to-MSN (RN to NP) bridge programs, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including: Academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.
Featured Online BSN Programs
Using Our Rankings: What to Look For in an Online BSN Program
Deciding which online nursing bachelor’s program works best for you depends on several factors such as program length, curriculum, clinical requirements, and accreditation. Our ranking of the best online BSN programs takes into account these considerations to help you make the right choice.
Admission Requirements
All schools require a high school diploma or equivalent, but some programs may stipulate a minimum GPA, specific prerequisites, and SAT or ACT scores. Before applying to an online BSN, make sure you meet the admission criteria.
Clinical Experience
All BSN programs require clinical experiences but handle them differently. Find out if your program offers online learners the option of fulfilling clinical requirements close to home.
Accreditation
Accreditation impacts your opportunities for employment, graduate studies, and certification. It is important to choose an online BSN that holds accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Program Length
Full-time students typically earn their online BSN in four years. Accelerated BSN and RN-to-BSN programs take less time, anywhere between 18-24 months, depending on the program's requirements and the applicant’s previous experience.
School NCLEX Pass Rate
The NCLEX-RN pass rate shows how well the program prepares graduates for RN careers. As of June 2022, the national pass ratefor first-time test takers is just over 82%, according to the NCSBN. A higher-than-average pass rate can indicate a quality program.
School Graduation Rate
The school graduation rate reports the percentage of students who graduate in the expected time frame. A high graduation rate gives you a good indicator of the program's commitment to learning and student success.
Online Learning Format and Requirements
Not all online BSNs use the same learning and technology formats. Programs that offer an asynchronous curriculum allow you to attend class when it's most convenient for you. Others follow a synchronous schedule with fixed log-in times or include hybrid courses that combine web-based instruction with in-person meetings.
Why Is Online BSN Program Accreditation Important?
Accreditation ensures that a nursing program meets nationally established academic standards to prepare graduates for nursing practice. All online nursing bachelor's selected for our rankings have earned accreditation by either the CCNE or the ACEN.
A program's accreditation status has important implications for financial aid eligibility, licensure,
and future educational and career plans:
- The NCLEX-RN exam and certification exams for advanced practice nursing roles require applicants to hold degrees from accredited nursing schools.
- State nursing boards only grant licenses to RNs who have graduated from an accredited program.
- Government financial assistance can only be applied to nursing programs at accredited schools.
- Credits earned at nonaccredited schools may not transfer to other programs.
- Employers and graduate nursing programs may not consider graduates from nonaccredited schools.
- Graduating from an accredited program signals to employers that you have received a high-quality education, making you more competitive in the job market.
Learn More About the Best Online BSN Programs
#1 The Best Online BSN Programs of 2023
University of Florida-Online
Gainesville, FL - 4 years
- Online
The University of Florida offers a bachelor's degree in nursing for licensed registered nurses (RNs) through its UF Online division. The curriculum, designed for working RNs, allows students to complete coursework entirely online.
The program requires 90 clinical hours. Students participate in virtual simulation health assessments online and through in-person clinical experiences near their home.
Learners prepare to improve patient outcomes, analyze healthcare policies, influence nursing practice, and provide leadership in high-quality healthcare delivery, wellness promotion, and preventative care.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing - RN-to-BSN Campus: Gainesville, Florida
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $129 per credit hour for Florida residents; $553 per credit hour for out-of-state students
- Admission Requirements: Associate degree in nursing; minimum 2.8 GPA; Florida or Nurse Licensure Compact RN license
- Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (Jan-Mar 2021): 100% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $59,576 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Tuition
In-state
$3,358
Out-of-state
$15,000
Retention Rate
67%
Admission Rate
62%
Students Enrolled
4,407
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
#2 The Best Online BSN Programs of 2023
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Registered nurses (RNs) can continue working while earning their bachelor's degrees in nursing online at the University of Central Florida. UCF accepts applications to the 30-credit program three times per year in the spring, summer, or fall. Enrollees can study full or part time and complete their clinical requirements in their home communities.
Coursework includes dimensions of professional practice, health assessment, nursing research, and pathophysiology for nursing practice during the first two semesters. Additional courses cover topics, such as health promotion and public and community health nursing.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing - RN-to-BSN
- Campus: Orlando, Florida
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $179 per credit hour for Florida residents; $716 out-of-state
- Admission Requirements: Associate degree; RN license
- Minimum Time Commitment: Three semesters
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (Jan-Mar 2022): 100% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $57,507 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Tuition
In-state
$4,478
Out-of-state
$19,810
Retention Rate
92%
Admission Rate
45%
Students Enrolled
71,881
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
96%
Accreditation
Yes
#3 The Best Online BSN Programs of 2023
Florida International University
Miami, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Florida International University's nursing bachelor's program offers fully online study for registered nurses (RNs). Coursework focuses on workplace experiences, including community health, evidence-based nursing practices, nursing leadership in global healthcare, and health, wellness, and care across cultures. Students can take courses in any order and study full or part time.
Enrollees complete a clinical placement in their final semester at a student-selected site and must submit evidence of a background check, drug test, required immunizations, and RN student liability insurance.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing - RN-to-BSN
- Campus: Miami, Florida
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $229 per credit hour for Florida residents; $346 out-of-state
- Admission Requirements: Associate degree in nursing; minimum 2.75 GPA and 60 transferable credits; Florida RN license
- Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (Jan-Mar 2022): 91.67% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $63,100 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Tuition
In-state
$4,721
Out-of-state
$16,529
Retention Rate
91%
Admission Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
58,836
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
86%
Accreditation
Yes
#4 The Best Online BSN Programs of 2023
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The 24-30-credit online BSN program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison offers registered nurses (RNs) the opportunity to earn their nursing bachelor's degree.
Enrollees study part time so they can continue working. The program concludes with a 60-hour clinical experience. Students can attend a half-day orientation at the start of the program either on campus or by video.
The curriculum emphasizes health promotion and illness management, leadership, and effective use of technology.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing - RN-to-BSN
- Campus: Madison, Wisconsin
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $452 per credit hour
- Admission Requirements: Associate degree or diploma in nursing; minimum 2.5 GPA; RN license
- Minimum Time Commitment: 18 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021): 94.31% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $64,769 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Tuition
In-state
$9,273
Out-of-state
$37,161
Retention Rate
95%
Admission Rate
57%
Students Enrolled
44,640
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
93%
Accreditation
Yes
#5 The Best Online BSN Programs of 2023
Maine College of Health Professions
Lewiston, ME - 4 years
- Online + Campus
With five start dates per year, the bachelor's in nursing program at Maine College of Health Professions accommodates the schedules of working registered nurses (RNs). The program offers 24/7 tutoring and student support and full- or part-time enrollment.
The curriculum focuses on broadening clinical judgment, collaboration, and leadership skills through classroom and hybrid learning options. MCHP requires a final clinical capstone course. Courses include nursing theory, IT applications in healthcare, and assessment through the lifespan.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing - RN-to-BSN
- Campus: Lewiston, Maine
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $332-$642 per credit hour
- Admission Requirements: Associate degree in nursing from an accredited program; RN license
- Minimum Time Commitment: 18 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (Jan-Sep 2022): 93.88% first-time pass rate
Average Tuition
In-state
$12,340
Out-of-state
$12,340
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
45%
Students Enrolled
216
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Accreditation
Yes
#6 The Best Online BSN Programs of 2023
University of Rochester
Rochester, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Rochester's online BSN program offers nursing bachelor's degrees for registered nurses (RNs). The curriculum emphasizes industry and state expectations, improved patient care and population health, and technology utilization.
Rochester provides iPads to nursing students and entirely online courses that include an RN-to-BSN transition: reflective professional practice, biopsychosocial health assessment of individual and family, and patient and population care management. Students complete field hours in nursing leadership and management of care and population health and a capstone.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing - RN-to-BSN
- Campus: Rochester, New York
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $1,200 per credit hour; $600 with Finger Lakes Regional Scholarship
- Admission Requirements: Associate degree or diploma in nursing; New York RN license
- Minimum Time Commitment: 16 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021): 84.03% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $68,194 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Tuition
In-state
$57,188
Out-of-state
$57,188
Retention Rate
92%
Admission Rate
35%
Students Enrolled
11,741
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
82%
Accreditation
Yes
#7 The Best Online BSN Programs of 2023
Ohio State University-Main Campus
Columbus, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Full-time registered nurses (RNs) can earn their nursing bachelor's degrees entirely online at the Ohio State University. The program is available to applicants from all states except Alabama, Georgia, Idaho, Nebraska, South Dakota, Tennessee, Washington, and Wyoming.
Asynchronous coursework includes concepts in community health nursing, evidence based practice, transforming healthcare, evolving concepts in leadership and management, and foundations and contemporary issues for RNs.
Ohio State's RN-to-BSN program offers full-time or part-time study options and clinical projects at students' locations.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing - RN-to-BSN
- Campus: Columbus, Ohio
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $14,728 total cost for Ohio residents; $15,328 out-of-state
- Admission Requirements: Associate degree or diploma in nursing; minimum 2.0 GPA; RN license
- Minimum Time Commitment: Three semesters
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $60,399 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Tuition
In-state
$10,615
Out-of-state
$32,599
Retention Rate
94%
Admission Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
61,369
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
94%
Accreditation
Yes
#8 The Best Online BSN Programs of 2023
Western Governors University
Salt Lake City, UT - 4 years
- Online
Western Governors University offers a prelicensure nursing bachelor's degree online for residents of Florida, Indiana, Ohio, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Texas, and Utah.
WGU's partnerships with healthcare organizations in these states enable clinical experiences near distance learners' homes. Fully remote coursework includes basic nursing skills, community health and population-focused nursing, interpersonal leadership and professional growth, and professional nursing role transition.
Learners also complete bachelor's-level general education and pre-nursing courses.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Salt Lake City, Utah
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $6,430-$7,616 per six-month term
- Admission Requirements: High school diploma; minimum age of 16; HESI A2 nursing exam score
- Minimum Time Commitment: 48 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021): 91.55% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $75,430 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Tuition
In-state
$6,380
Out-of-state
$6,380
Retention Rate
75%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
147,866
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
#9 The Best Online BSN Programs of 2023
Texas A & M University-College Station
College Station, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Registered nurses can earn their nursing bachelor's degree completely online at Texas A & M University. The 30-credit curriculum includes practic*ms in students' home communities and courses that include application of evidence-based practice, health promotion across the lifespan, nursing dimensions and informatics, and pathophysiology and pharmacology.
Applicants need 59 transfer credits in humanities and sciences. A competitive admissions process evaluates prerequisite and associate in nursing coursework GPAs, community service, and timed verbal responses and written assessments.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing - RN-to-BSN
- Campus: College Station, Texas
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $9,298 per year for Texas residents; $31,608 per year for out-of-state students
- Admission Requirements: Associate degree in nursing, minimum 3.0 GPA (recommended); RN license
- Minimum Time Commitment: Three semesters
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021): 98.15% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $63,656 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Tuition
In-state
$8,395
Out-of-state
$36,849
Retention Rate
94%
Admission Rate
63%
Students Enrolled
70,418
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
33%
Accreditation
Yes
#10 The Best Online BSN Programs of 2023
The University of West Florida
Pensacola, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of West Florida's nursing bachelor's program for registered nurses features an entirely online format. Students can finish the required 32 credits in as soon as one year. Key course topics include evidence-based practice, nursing law and regulation, patient health assessment, and strategies for older adults.
The program offers multiple start dates and supports remote learners with databases and online journals, tutoring, technical support, and a writing lab. Direct care capstone experiences take place in students' communities.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing - RN-to-BSN
- Campus: Pensacola, Florida
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $219 per credit hour
- Admission Requirements: Associate degree in nursing; minimum 2.75 GPA; RN license
- Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (Jan-Mar 2021): 95.35% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $58,454 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Tuition
In-state
$3,735
Out-of-state
$16,004
Retention Rate
84%
Admission Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
13,061
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
97%
Accreditation
Yes
How Online BSN Programs Work
Depending on the program, you may complete all degree requirements online, except for clinical placements. Asynchronous programs appeal to highly motivated, independent learners who need minimal faculty supervision. Synchronous formats that require specific attendance times work best for students who desire face-to-face interaction with faculty and other students.
Distance learners must complete in-person clinical requirements to become licensed RNs. While some online programs can arrange placements close to your home, you may have to find your own clinical placements at approved sites.
Applying to an Online BSN Program
Online nursing bachelor’s programs generally follow the same admission procedures as traditional BSNs. Although criteria varies, applicants must have a high school or GED diploma. Many programs require specific math and science prerequisites for admission, but previous nursing or work experience is often not required.
Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Official transcripts
- Prerequisites in natural science
- Online application and payment of application fees
Admission Materials
- Letters of recommendation
- Essay or personal statement
- SAT or ACT scores (optional)
- Criminal background check and fingerprinting
- Physical exam and drug screening
- Immunization verification
GPA Requirement
- Minimum 2.5 GPA
Paying for Online BSN Programs
Prospective nurses often worry about how to pay for their online BSN. Several factors impact the cost of a nursing degree, including program length, required credits, and in-state versus out-of-state tuition rates. Depending on the program's intensity, you may have difficulty working full-time while enrolled.
Many students offset the cost of their nursing degree through financial aid opportunities. You should begin your search for financial aid by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for government-funded grants or loans.
You may also qualify for need-based or merit-based scholarships offered by schools or private organizations. Federal and state governments sponsor student loan forgiveness programs for nurses who agree to work in high-need areas when they graduate.
What Can You Do After an Online BSN?
Graduates of BSN programs receive training in nursing care, leadership, and case management, acquiring the skills for a wide array of professional opportunities. The degree also prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam and state licensure as a registered nurse.
RNs with a BSN degree find careers in specialties, including geriatrics, pediatrics, and neonatology. While hospitals and physicians' offices are the major employers, RNs also work in outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, and long-term care facilities.
Employers have a strong preference for bachelor-prepared nurses, especially in administrative and supervisory positions. Graduate programs that prepare you for highly-paid advanced practice roles require a BSN for admission. The following job outlook percentages for RNs are provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Registered Nurse
RN generalists provide patient care, administer treatments and medications, and offer emotional support to patients and their families. They work in virtually every type of healthcare setting, from hospitals and clinics to nursing homes and home care.
Median Salary
$77,600
Job Outlook
+6%
Learn More About RNs
Public Health Nurse
A public health nurse works with groups and communities to promote health and safety, reduce health risks, and prevent disease through education, advocacy, and the direct delivery of care. These nurses often find employment in government and nonprofit organizations, school systems, and community clinics.
Average Salary (October 2022)
$64,368
Job Outlook
+6%
Learn More About PHNs
Travel Nurse
Travel nurses take temporary positions in healthcare settings across the U.S. and overseas in high-need areas experiencing nursing shortages.They work on a short-term contractual basis, taking assignments that may last for a few weeks or as long as two years.
Average Salary (October 2022)
$84,000
Job Outlook
+6%
Learn More About Travel Nurses
Frequently Asked Questions About Online BSNs
Can you become a registered nurse online?
A growing number of aspiring nurses choose distance learning programs to earn their undergraduate degree and prepare for the NCLEX-RN and state licensure. The NCLEX-RN exam can only be taken in-person at an official test site.
What education is required to be an RN?
While you can qualify for your RN license after earning a two-year associate degree in nursing, the BSN has become the professional standard. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing recognizes the BSN as the minimum education requirement for professional practice.
What are the benefits of online nursing education?
Online BSN degrees offer flexibility and convenience to degree-seekers who balance their studies with personal and work responsibilities. Distance learners may save on living and transportation expenses while receiving the same access to student services and other resources available to campus-based students.
Can nursing clinicals be done online?
Typically, students must complete nursing clinical in-person at approved sites. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, some nursing schools and healthcare organizations began to supplement face-to-face clinical experiences with virtual simulations and telenursing. Many state boards of nursing, following guidelines established by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, have begun to accept virtual simulations in place of some on-site clinical experiences.
Related Pages
Page last reviewed: October 26, 2022. Note: The ranking list and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by our Rankings Team.
