10 Cheapest RN to BSN Programs Online in Alabama 2025

<p>With the growing demand for skilled nurses across hospitals, clinics, and community settings, many registered nurses (RNs) are seeking opportunities to expand their credentials by earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). In Alabama, several universities make that goal more accessible through online RN to BSN programs that combine affordability with academic quality. </p> <p>For those wondering about their options, we'll discuss the <a href="https://learn.org/articles/affordable_online_degrees_rn_to_bsn.html">cheapest RN to BSN online programs</a> available both in-state and nationwide. Alabama's schools stand out for their balance of low-cost tuition, flexible online delivery, and transfer-friendly pathways&mdash;giving licensed nurses practical choices to finish their degree on their terms. </p> <h2 id="section---MostAffordableOnlineRNToBSNProgramsInAlabama">Most Affordable Online RN to BSN Programs in Alabama</h2> <p>Alabama is home to several schools offering the <a href="https://learn.org/articles/online_rn_to_bsn_alabama.html">cheapest RN to BSN online programs</a>, many of which are available entirely online to meet the needs of working nurses. Below, we've listed accredited programs from Alabama colleges, starting with the most affordable based on current tuition estimates. </p> <h3 id="section---1.UniversityOfNorthAlabama">1. University of North Alabama</h3> <p>The University of North Alabama (UNA) offers a fully online RN to BSN program tailored for working nurses. The program provides 24/7 access to course materials, allowing students to balance their studies with professional and personal commitments. UNA's program is designed to build upon existing nursing knowledge, preparing graduates for advanced roles in healthcare. </p> <ul><li><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $283 to $340 per credit hour </li><li><b>Financial aid:</b> UNA provides various financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and federal aid programs. </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) </li></ul><h3 id="section---2.UniversityOfWestAlabama">2. University of West Alabama</h3> <p>At the University of West Alabama (UWA), registered nurses can earn their BSN entirely online without disrupting their careers. Based in Livingston, UWA has a long-standing commitment to adult learners and rural healthcare education. The RN to BSN program reflects this mission by offering rolling admissions, multiple start dates, and self-paced coursework that fits around shift schedules. </p> <ul><li><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $325 per credit hour </li><li><b>Financial aid:</b> UWA offers financial assistance through scholarships, grants, and federal aid programs. </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> SACSCOC and Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) </li></ul><h3 id="section---3.JacksonvilleStateUniversity">3. Jacksonville State University</h3> <p>Jacksonville State University (JSU), located in northeast Alabama, offers the RN to BSN STEP (Strategic Teaching for Enhanced Professional Preparation) program. This fully online pathway is built for working registered nurses looking to complete their BSN in as little as one calendar year. </p> <p>Known for its strong commitment to healthcare education across Alabama, JSU allows students to start the program in fall, spring, or summer terms. Nurses enrolled in the program can stay employed full-time while earning their degree thanks to JSU's asynchronous course format and affordable per-credit tuition. </p> <ul><li><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $353 per credit hour </li><li><b>Financial aid:</b> JSU provides financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and federal aid programs. </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> SACSCOC and CCNE </li></ul><h3 id="section---4.AuburnUniversityAtMontgomery">4. Auburn University at Montgomery</h3> <p>Auburn University at Montgomery (AUM) delivers a fully online RN to BSN program that gives working nurses the flexibility they need without sacrificing quality. Part of the well-regarded Auburn University system, AUM offers a supportive environment where students can access course content on their own schedule&mdash;from a laptop, tablet, or even a smartphone. With multiple start dates throughout the year and a user-friendly platform, the program is structured for convenience. </p> <ul><li><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $379 per credit hour </li><li><b>Financial aid:</b> AUM offers financial assistance through scholarships, grants, and federal aid programs. </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> SACSCOC and CCNE </li></ul><h3 id="section---5.UniversityOfAlabamaInHuntsville">5. University of Alabama in Huntsville</h3> <p>At the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH), registered nurses have access to an RN to BSN program that supports both professional advancement and schedule flexibility. Delivered entirely online, this program is taught by the same experienced faculty who teach on campus and can be completed in as little as 12 months. </p> <ul><li><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $382 per credit hour </li><li><b>Financial aid:</b> UAH provides financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and federal aid programs. </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> SACSCOC and CCNE </li></ul><h3 id="section---6.SamfordUniversity">6. Samford University</h3> <p>Samford University, a private Christian institution in Birmingham, offers an online RN to BSN program that has multiple start dates throughout the year and allows for part-time or full-time study. Students complete upper-level nursing courses alongside general education requirements to fulfill their degree. </p> <p>Samford's reputation for academic excellence and small class sizes provides students with a supportive learning environment, and faculty members are known for being accessible and engaged throughout the online experience. </p> <ul><li><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $382 per credit hour </li><li><b>Financial aid: </b>Samford University provides financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and federal aid programs. </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> SACSCOC and CCNE </li></ul><h3 id="section---7.UniversityOfAlabama">7. University of Alabama</h3> <p>The University of Alabama offers an RN to BSN program that allows registered nurses who hold an associate degree or diploma in nursing to pursue an advanced degree in a convenient online format. Students can begin in the fall, spring, or summer terms and progress at their own pace. </p> <p>Courses are delivered in an asynchronous format, giving students flexibility in scheduling. As part of the University of Alabama system, the program provides access to faculty with clinical expertise and a well-established nursing department. </p> <ul><li><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $399 per credit hour </li><li><b>Financial aid:</b> The University of Alabama provides financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and federal aid programs. </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> SACSCOC and CCNE </li></ul><h3 id="section---8.UniversityOfSouthAlabama">8. University of South Alabama</h3> <p>Known for its strong health sciences programs, the University of South Alabama offers an RN to BSN pathway that is entirely online and structured to support nurses ready to complete their bachelor's degree. The program accepts new students three times a year and provides personalized academic advising throughout. </p> <p>Students can move through the coursework at a comfortable pace, typically completing the degree in about one year. As part of a larger public research university, nursing students benefit from the institution's extensive healthcare partnerships and access to digital resources tailored to adult learners. </p> <ul><li><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $423 per credit hour </li><li><b>Financial aid:</b> The University of South Alabama provides financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and federal aid programs. </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> SACSCOC and CCNE </li></ul><h3 id="section---9.TroyUniversity">9. Troy University</h3> <p>With multiple start dates throughout the year and a fast-paced completion timeline, Troy University's online RN mobility program stands out for its accessibility. Students can earn their BSN in as few as 18 weeks, depending on transfer credits and course load. </p> <p>The program is offered entirely online and administered by the university's School of Nursing, which has a long-standing reputation for preparing competent nursing professionals. Troy's nursing program also benefits from being part of the larger Troy University system, giving students access to academic resources, library services, and career support tailored to distance learners. </p> <ul><li><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $424 per credit hour </li><li><b>Financial aid:</b> Troy University offers financial assistance through scholarships, grants, and federal aid programs. </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> SACSCOC and ACEN </li></ul><h3 id="section---10.UniversityOfAlabamaAtBirmingham">10. University of Alabama at Birmingham</h3> <p>At the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), registered nurses with a diploma or associate degree can pursue their BSN through the RN to BSN Pathway. This program offers flexible pacing options with three-, four-, or five-semester plans, making it easier to customize your academic journey. </p> <p>While coursework is primarily delivered online, students also benefit from distance-accessible learning that includes supportive interaction with UAB's experienced nursing faculty. As a leading academic medical center, UAB provides a well-rounded education backed by a strong reputation in healthcare. </p> <ul><li><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $541 per credit hour </li><li><b>Financial aid:</b> UAB offers financial assistance through scholarships, grants, and federal aid programs. </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> SACSCOC and CCNE </li></ul><h2 id="section---HowWeRankSchools">How We Rank Schools</h2> <p>Our list is based on factors that matter most to working nurses who are comparing affordable degree pathways. To ensure we give you the best RN to BSN options, we used the following criteria: </p> <ul><li><b>Accreditation:</b> We include programs that are recognized by trusted accrediting agencies such as SACSCOC, CCNE, or ACEN to ensure academic and professional quality. </li><li><b>Affordability:</b> Tuition costs per credit are considered to help identify programs that are budget-friendly and reduce financial strain. </li><li><b>Program reputation:</b> We look at overall school recognition, student support, and outcomes to highlight programs with strong academic and professional track records. </li></ul><h2 id="section---HowToPayForYourNursingDegree">How To Pay for Your Nursing Degree</h2> <p>Affording a BSN doesn't have to be overwhelming, especially with the financial resources available to nursing students. Most accredited RN to BSN programs in Alabama qualify for federal financial aid, including Pell Grants, subsidized loans, and work-study opportunities. To determine eligibility, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which is required by <a href="https://learn.org/articles/cheap_online_colleges_that_accept_fafsa.html">online schools that accept FAFSA</a>. </p> <p>In addition to federal aid, many Alabama universities offer institutional scholarships specifically for nursing majors. These awards may be merit-based, need-based, or connected to community service or academic achievement. Some schools also offer tuition payment plans that allow students to spread the cost of tuition over several months. </p> <p>Employers in healthcare often support continuing education through tuition reimbursement programs. If you're currently employed at a hospital or clinic, check with your HR department to see if this benefit is available to you. Certain hospitals may also offer bonuses or higher pay for BSN-qualified staff. </p> <h2 id="section---FAQsAboutCheapOnlineRNToBSNPrograms">FAQs About Cheap Online RN to BSN Programs</h2> <p>As you explore your options for an online RN to BSN program, understanding the structure, credit transfer policies, and learning formats of these programs can help you make an informed choice. Below are answers to common questions that prospective students often ask. </p> <h3 id="section---HowAreOnlineRNToBSNProgramsAccredited">How Are Online RN to BSN Programs Accredited?</h3> <p>Accreditation for RN to BSN programs is granted by organizations like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). These bodies ensure the curriculum meets national standards for nursing education, which is critical for licensure and further academic opportunities. To confirm a program's status, check the school's website or search the accrediting body's online database. </p> <h3 id="section---CanIFinishAnRNToBSNProgramInUnderAYear">Can I Finish an RN to BSN Program in Under a Year?</h3> <p>Yes, some of the <a href="https://learn.org/articles/shortest_rn_to_bsn_online.html">fastest online RN to BSN programs</a> offer accelerated formats that allow students to graduate in less than 12 months, particularly if they transfer prior credits. These fast-track options typically require full-time enrollment and may include condensed terms. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatKindOfTransferCreditIsAcceptedInRNToBSNPrograms">What Kind of Transfer Credit Is Accepted in RN to BSN Programs?</h3> <p>Many RN to BSN programs accept a substantial number of transfer credits from previous nursing education, often including general education and prerequisite courses. Some also award credit for having an active RN license. The total number of transferable credits varies by institution, so it's best to consult directly with an admissions advisor to determine how much of your previous work will apply. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatAreTheMostFlexibleRNToBSNProgramsOnline">What Are the Most Flexible RN to BSN Programs Online?</h3> <p><a href="https://learn.org/articles/easiest_rn_to_bsn_online.html">Easy RN to BSN programs online</a> stand out for their flexible structure, offering asynchronous classes, self-paced modules, and minimal clinical requirements. These features are ideal for nurses balancing education with full-time employment or family responsibilities. </p> <h3 id="section---HowMuchDoesAnOnlineRNToBSNProgramCost">How Much Does an Online RN to BSN Program Cost?</h3> <p>Tuition for RN to BSN programs can vary widely, ranging from $200 to $500 per credit hour at public universities. Total costs often depend on how many credits are required after the transfer. Many schools offer per-semester pricing or flat-rate tuition to simplify planning. In addition to federal aid, students may qualify for scholarships or employer reimbursement programs. </p> <h2 id="section---FindOnlineNursingPrograms">Find Online Nursing Programs</h2> <p>Whether you're pursuing leadership opportunities or expanding your clinical knowledge, completing an RN to BSN degree can help you grow professionally. Explore online programs on Learn.org to find affordable, accredited pathways that support your goals and fit your schedule.</p>