If you are keen on finding the best online RN-to-BSN programs with no waitlist, this post is written for you. In this we will guide you through top accredited online nursing degree programs that allow you to advance your nursing education and career quickly and without delay.
E-learning presents incredible and high-quality nursing education options, now is the perfect time to enrol with institutions that provide no waitlist RN-to-BSN programs — so you can upgrade your qualifications and accelerate your nursing career.
Key areas covered in the post include accreditation matters and the benefits of RN-to-BSN degrees. The post will also highlight reputable programs that meet the demand for fast enrolment and quality education.
Why Enrol in an Accredited Online Nursing Degree Program?
There are several important reasons why you should choose an accredited online nursing degree program. Here are the major benefits of going the accredited route:
You Want to Obtain a Legitimate Degree
Not all e-learning institutions offer credible and legitimate nursing degrees. There are some institutions offering mediocre nursing qualifications in the name of online degrees—many of which are fly-by-night scams operating outside regulatory oversight. Studying with an accredited institution ensures that you will get a legitimate degree with which you can confidently enter the job market.
You Want an Authoritative Edge in the Job Market
Earning a degree from an accredited institution gives you a significant advantage when seeking employment. Employers trust that holders of accredited degrees possess verified competence and knowledge. This means you won’t have to prove your qualifications repeatedly, giving you an edge as a job seeker.
You Want to Become a Registered Nurse or Accredited Healthcare Professional
To be a registered nurse, you need to hold an accredited degree. Therefore, when choosing online nursing degree providers, narrow your options to those that are fully accredited. Studying with a non-accredited provider limits your chances of entering the mainstream healthcare job market and restricts how far you can go with further education.
You Want a Globally Recognized Qualification
When pursuing a tertiary qualification, it’s important to know that your degree will be accepted worldwide. Accredited institutions align with global healthcare education standards, enabling you to enter the healthcare job market internationally. Moreover, credits earned from one accredited institution are often transferable to another, making it easier to switch schools if needed.
Top Accredited Online Nursing Degree Programs to Consider
If you’re searching for a credible and best online RN-to-BSN program with no waitlist, here are some highly regarded institutions offering fully accredited online nursing degrees. These programs balance accreditation, affordability, course scope, and duration to help you advance your nursing career.
1. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) — Capella University
Capella University offers a comprehensive and accredited Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing designed to prepare learners to be well-rounded healthcare professionals. This program equips you to function efficiently in today’s dynamic healthcare environments. The degree serves as a launch pad into specialised nursing fields or nursing management roles. It is considered a standard requirement for Registered Nurses (RNs) seeking to advance their careers.
Duration: Varies; many students can complete their degree in under 2 years depending on transfer credits.
Learn more: Capella University RN to BSN program
2. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) — Jacksonville University
Jacksonville University is another reputable institution offering a well-structured online RN to BSN program. The curriculum covers community health, research and assessment, critical care, and general education subjects such as nutrition, anatomy, physiology, and statistics. This program aims to equip students with skills needed to handle increasingly complex patient care scenarios.
Duration: Typically 2 years for RN to BSN students.
Learn more: Jacksonville University RN to BSN program
3. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) — Western Governors University (WGU)
Western Governors University (WGU) offers a highly recognized and respected online nursing degree program accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
The program is designed to increase your job security and personal status by providing knowledge that goes beyond basic nursing practice, including nursing theory, nursing science, general education, and health science cores.
Duration: Flexible pacing, often completed in under 2 years.
Learn more: WGU RN to BSN program
4. Bachelor of Science Nursing Degree Online — Texila American University
Texila American University offers credible and well-regarded online nursing degrees. Registered Nurses can enrol in the BSN degree program with a typical duration of two years. This university focuses on delivering comprehensive nursing education suitable for working professionals.
Duration: About 2 years.
Learn more: Texila American University BSN program
Things to Consider When Choosing the Best RN to BSN Program
While there are many online RN to BSN programs available, it’s crucial to evaluate them carefully based on:
- Accreditation: Always ensure the program is accredited by a recognised nursing education body like CCNE or ACEN.
- Cost: Look at tuition fees and other costs. Can you afford it, or is there scholarship support?
- Program Length: Some programs offer accelerated options, such as 6-month RN to BSN programs online, while others may take longer. Choose based on your schedule and career goals.
- Clinical Requirements: Some programs have clinicals; if you’re looking for an RN to BSN online no clinicals option, be sure to verify this before enrolling.
- Specialisation: Consider the nursing specialisation options available if you want to focus on a particular field after your BSN.
Those are the four of the best accredited RN to BSN online programs you should seriously consider if you want a legitimate, affordable, and respected nursing degree without the hassle of a waitlist.
Online Associate Degree Nursing Programs: Best Online Associate Degree in Nursing Programs
There has never been a better time to pick up that long-parked education dream. If you have ever wanted to be a nurse or acquire a profession in nursing practice, this post is precisely for you. Here, we explore online associate degree nursing programs, a crucial step for many aspiring nurses.
What Is an Associate Degree in Nursing?
To begin, it’s important to understand what an associate degree is and how it differs from a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). An Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) is a tertiary qualification typically completed in two to three years.
In the U.S., the ASN degree is commonly awarded by nursing schools and community colleges. As a holder of an Associate Nursing Degree, you become eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam, which is required for licensure as a Registered Nurse.
The ASN course scope usually includes modules in anatomy, physiology, nursing fundamentals, nutrition, microbiology, and chemistry, alongside courses in psychology and social sciences.
Benefits of Doing an Online Associate Degree Nursing Program
One of the major advantages of earning an ASN is qualification to become a licensed nurse. Depending on the institution, the degree can facilitate transition from Licensed Vocational Nursing to professional nursing practice.
Furthermore, the degree prepares students for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam, opening doors to a career as a Registered Nurse.
Difference Between ASN and BSN Degrees
The key difference between an ASN and a BSN lies in scope and depth. An ASN focuses on foundational nursing care in hospital and long-term care settings, while a BSN covers broader healthcare topics, including leadership, research, and specialised clinical practice. Typically, an ASN takes about two years to complete, while a BSN usually spans four years.
Best Online Associate Degree Nursing Programs
Here are some of the best universities offering online associate degree nursing programs, factoring in accreditation, cost, and program quality:
Chamberlain College of Nursing — Renowned for flexible online ASN programs tailored for working students.
Excelsior College — Offers an affordable ASN degree designed to prepare students for licensure.
Kaplan University — Provides a well-structured ASN program online with a focus on practical nursing skills.
Walden University — Known for accessible programs with a comprehensive curriculum.
Panola College — Community college offering affordable nursing programs with strong clinical components.
For your own due diligence please use these links to verify any institutions and websites your are considering:
ACEN: https://www.acenursing.org/
CCNE: https://www.aacnnursing.org/CCNE
Choosing the Right Program for You
Your choice of the best associate nursing degree should be based on key factors such as:
In addition to these accredited universities, you might explore supplemental online nursing courses and skill-building platforms such as Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning, which offer valuable continuing education options to complement your formal degree.
RN-to-BSN Program FAQs
6-Month RN to BSN Program Online
If you are keen on a 6-Month RN to BSN Program Online please check out Western Governors University (WGU) and Capella University FlexPath. These are competency based models tailored to help you prove mastery. The 6 month program is suited for experienced nurses who have a strong foundational knowledge of nursing. The program requires 40+ hours a week of commitment and not all states in the USA approve.
Cheapest RN to BSN Online
The top affordable RN to BSN options are pathways offered by University of Texas Arlington (~$8,000 total), Florida Atlantic University (~$9,000) and WGU (~$3,900 per 6-month term)
To be cost-savvy please check your employer tuition reimbursement (also check hospital policies) as well as state-sponsored programs (e.g., California BRN grants)
RN to BSN Online No Clinicals
There are also RN and BSN programs offered online with no clinicals. Check institutions like the Grand Canyon University which uses virtual simulations, check what Purdue Global and the capstone project. Please note that all RN to BSN programs require practicum hours (125-200 hrs)- it is only the format that differs.
RN to BSN Cost Online
You should keep in mind other not on your face (hidden) costs which may include technology fees ($100–$300), graduation fees ($150–$500), etc.
Best Accredited RN to BSN Online Programs
Leading CCNE-accredited institutions are:
- University of Illinois Chicago
- University of Wisconsin-Madison
- University of North Carolina
Please make sure that for your due diligence, you verify CCNE/ACEN status on nursing school websites.
Best Online RN to BSN Programs
Below are the best picks for the RN to BSN Programs Overall. The ranking factors are Accreditation (CCNE/ACEN mandatory), NCLEX pass rates (90%+ preferred), Graduate employment rates (85%+ in 6 months) and program flexibility (8-week terms vs. semesters).
- Ohio University (best support services)
- University of Texas at Arlington (best affordability)
- Northeastern University (best for military)
- University of Florida (best research options)
- Arizona State University (best tech integration)
There you have it — a clear guide to the best online RN-to-BSN programs with no waitlist and top online associate degree nursing programs. Choosing the right program and institution is essential to kickstarting or advancing your nursing career successfully.
All the best in your academic and professional journey!