7 Cheapest RN to BSN Programs Online in Wisconsin 2026
Explore accredited and affordable online RN to BSN programs in Wisconsin. Compare flexible degree options, tuition rates, and financial aid opportunities to find the best fit for your nursing career.
Making the decision to pursue your Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) as a registered nurse (RN) can be a difficult choice. Luckily, you don't have to pause your career to pursue your degree. Many colleges across the state offer flexible online pathways that let you complete your BSN from home, on your schedule.
These affordable RN to BSN programs online are not only cost-effective but also tailored to working professionals, providing the flexibility and support needed to succeed. Whether you're looking to move into a leadership role or simply meet job requirements, Wisconsin offers some of the cheapest and fastest RN to BSN programs online to help you reach your goals.
Most Affordable Online RN to BSN Programs
Wisconsin offers several affordable and accredited online RN to BSN programs tailored for working nurses. These programs provide flexibility and quality education, ensuring that you can advance your career without financial strain.
<h3 id="section---1.RasmussenUniversity">1. Rasmussen University</h3><p>Rasmussen University's RN to BSN program is created with working nurses in mind. The program offers online courses with in-person clinicals, and students can transfer up to 134 credits, potentially reducing the time and cost to complete the degree. The curriculum includes Empowered Learning® courses, allowing students to access content anytime and progress at their own pace. Additionally, students have the opportunity to take up to two graduate-level courses as part of an accelerated master's pathway.
</p><p><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $345 per credit
</p><p><b>Financial aid:</b> Rasmussen University offers financial assistance through scholarships, grants, and federal aid programs to help students manage educational expenses.
</p><p><b>Accreditation:</b> Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
</p><h3 id="section---2.ViterboUniversity">2. Viterbo University</h3><p>Viterbo University's BSN Completion program is a fully online program designed for registered nurses seeking to complete their bachelor's degree. The program offers flexibility with accelerated eight-week courses and multiple start terms throughout the year.
</p><p>Students can complete the program in just one year, depending on transfer credits and course load. Viterbo is known for its personalized attention, offering one-on-one academic advising and close collaboration with nursing faculty.
</p><p><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $410 per credit
</p><p><b>Financial aid:</b> Viterbo University provides financial assistance through scholarships, grants, and federal aid programs to help students achieve their educational goals.
</p><p><b>Accreditation:</b> CCNE
</p><h3 id="section---3.HerzingUniversity">3. Herzing University</h3><p>Herzing University's RN to BSN program offers a flexible online format, allowing registered nurses to complete their bachelor's degree while balancing work and personal commitments. The curriculum focuses on enhancing clinical reasoning, leadership, and evidence-based practice skills.
</p><p>This program typically takes about one year to finish. Additionally, nursing students will have access to support through experienced faculty and a range of student services.
</p><p><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $430 per credit
</p><p><b>Financial aid:</b> Herzing University offers various financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and federal aid, to assist students in funding their education.
</p><p><b>Accreditation:</b> CCNE
</p><h3 id="section---4.UniversityOfWisconsinMadison">4. University of Wisconsin-Madison</h3><p>The University of Wisconsin-Madison's BSN@Home program is a low-residency option created for registered nurses with an associate degree or diploma in nursing. The program allows students to complete most coursework online, with a required clinical practicum at the end of the program. Students can complete the program in 18 to 30 months, depending on course load and transfer credits. UW-Madison provides services like advising and financial aid, as well as a unique capstone practicum that gives students an integrative educational experience.
</p><p><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $452 per credit
</p><p><b>Financial aid:</b> UW-Madison offers various financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and federal aid programs, to assist students in managing their educational expenses.
</p><p><b>Accreditation:</b> CCNE
</p><h3 id="section---5.UniversityOfWisconsinGreenBay">5. University of Wisconsin-Green Bay</h3><p>The University of Wisconsin-Green Bay's RN to BSN program is a fully online program designed for registered nurses seeking to complete their bachelor's degree. The program offers flexibility with year-round courses, allowing students to finish their degree in 15 to 20 months. The curriculum builds on prior nursing education and focuses on areas such as community health, nursing research, and leadership.
</p><p><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $452 per credit
</p><p><b>Financial aid:</b> UW-Green Bay provides financial support through scholarships, grants, and federal aid programs to help students offset the cost of their education.
</p><p><b>Accreditation:</b> CCNE
</p><h3 id="section---6.UWFlexibleOption">6. UW Flexible Option</h3><p>The UW Flexible Option RN to BSN program, offered through the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, is a self-paced, competency-based program designed for registered nurses. The program allows students to progress through the curriculum by demonstrating mastery of competencies, offering flexibility to balance studies with professional and personal commitments.
</p><p>Nursing students can transfer credit for college-level coursework completed at regionally accredited institutions. The program is ideal for self-motivated learners seeking a non-traditional approach to earning their BSN.
</p><p><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $1,125 to $2,250 per subscription period
</p><p><b>Financial aid:</b> The UW Flexible Option offers financial assistance through scholarships, grants, and federal aid programs to help students manage educational expenses.
</p><p><b>Accreditation:</b> CCNE
</p><h3 id="section---7.ConcordiaUniversityWisconsin">7. Concordia University Wisconsin</h3><p>Concordia University Wisconsin's RN to BSN program is an accelerated online program that allows registered nurses to complete their bachelor's degree in as few as 18 months. The curriculum builds on existing nursing knowledge and focuses on areas such as leadership, community health, and evidence-based practice. The program offers flexibility with multiple start dates and personalized support from experienced faculty.
</p><p><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $490 per credit
</p><p><b>Financial aid:</b> Concordia University Wisconsin provides financial assistance through scholarships, grants, and federal aid programs to help students achieve their educational goals.
</p><p><b>Accreditation:</b> CCNE
</p><h2 id="section---HowWeRankSchools">How We Rank Schools</h2><p>We selected programs based on several important criteria. These include:
</p><ul><li><b>Accreditation:</b> All featured programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, meeting established standards for quality nursing education.
</li><li><b>Affordability:</b> We included schools with tuition rates at or below $500 per credit, or affordable flat-rate subscription models.
</li><li><b>Program reputation:</b> Each college is recognized for offering respected nursing programs with online flexibility and student support.
</li></ul><h2 id="section---HowToPayForYourNursingDegree">How To Pay for Your Nursing Degree</h2><p>Paying for a BSN can feel like a challenge, but there are several financial resources that can reduce the burden. Start by filling out the FAFSA to apply for federal student aid. Grants, subsidized loans, and work-study options may be available depending on your income and enrollment status. Many students choose <a href="https://learn.org/articles/online_colleges_accept_fafsa_wisconsin.html">online schools that accept FAFSA</a> to make their degree even more affordable.
</p><p>Scholarships for nursing students are another valuable source of aid. Organizations like the Wisconsin League for Nursing and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing offer scholarships to students advancing their nursing credentials. Additionally, some hospitals and clinics offer tuition reimbursement programs for employees completing an RN to BSN, especially those who commit to working for the employer after graduation.
</p><p>Flexible schools, like UW's Flexible Option, may offer subscription-based models that allow faster learners to save money. Others, such as Rasmussen or Herzing, may have partnerships that allow you to transfer previous credits and fast-track your degree. Taking advantage of these opportunities can reduce your overall costs and get you into your next role sooner.
</p><h2 id="section---FAQsAboutCheapOnlineRNToBSNPrograms">FAQs About Cheap Online RN to BSN Programs</h2><p>When researching online RN to BSN degrees in Wisconsin, students often have questions about cost, format, and admissions requirements. Below are answers to common questions to help you make an informed choice.
</p><h3 id="section---AreOnlineRNToBSNProgramsInWisconsinAccredited">Are Online RN to BSN Programs in Wisconsin Accredited?</h3><p>Most online RN to BSN programs in Wisconsin are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, which ensures that the curriculum meets rigorous academic and clinical standards. Accreditation is essential for licensure, graduate school admission, and employer recognition, so always verify that a program is properly accredited before applying.
</p><h3 id="section---CanITransferCreditsTowardMyBSN">Can I Transfer Credits Toward My BSN?</h3><p>Yes, nearly all RN to BSN programs in Wisconsin accept transfer credits from associate degree or diploma programs in nursing. Many schools allow up to 90 credits to transfer, significantly reducing the time and cost needed to earn your BSN. Some programs, like those at UW-Green Bay and Rasmussen, also evaluate prior learning and work experience.
</p><h3 id="section---HowLongDoRNToBSNProgramsTypicallyTake">How Long Do RN to BSN Programs Typically Take?</h3><p>Most students can complete an online RN to BSN program in 12 to 24 months. Accelerated options are available for students who study full-time or transfer a large number of credits. If you're looking to finish as quickly as possible, the <a href="https://learn.org/articles/easiest_rn_to_bsn_online.html">easiest RN to BSN program online</a> may offer the shortest route to graduation.
</p><h3 id="section---DoTheseProgramsRequireClinicalHours">Do These Programs Require Clinical Hours?</h3><p>Some programs require a capstone or practicum experience, which can often be completed in your current place of employment or local community. These clinicals typically focus on leadership, public health, or community-based projects rather than traditional bedside care.
</p><h3 id="section---AreOnlineProgramsMoreAffordableThanOnCampusOnes">Are Online Programs More Affordable Than On-Campus Ones?</h3><p>In many cases, yes. Online programs reduce costs by eliminating commuting and housing expenses. Additionally, many Wisconsin schools offer flat-rate online tuition, making it easier to budget. Attending online schools that accept FAFSA may further reduce your total expenses through federal grants and loans.
</p><h2 id="section---FindOnlineNursingPrograms">Find Online Nursing Programs</h2><p>Wisconsin offers many flexible and affordable RN to BSN programs that make this goal within reach. Browse online nursing programs featured here on Learn.org and reach out to a school that fits your needs today.</p>