4 Cheapest RN to BSN Programs Online in Iowa 2025

Finding the cheapest RN to BSN online programs that balance cost, quality, and convenience is essential for registered nurses (RNs) ready to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Iowa colleges offer several affordable RN to BSN programs online, giving students the flexibility to study from home while advancing their qualifications in the field.

These programs are built to support nurses who want to expand their roles or prepare for graduate education. Many offer accelerated pacing, credit transfer opportunities, and access to financial aid. In addition to Iowa-based schools, we've included a few budget-friendly online RN to BSN options in surrounding states to give you a wider range of choices.

Most Affordable Online RN to BSN Programs in Iowa

You can find some of the best online RN to BSN programs right here in Iowa, where affordability and flexibility often go hand in hand. These accredited programs offer online pathways that help registered nurses earn a bachelor's degree without taking time away from their careers. The schools below represent some of the cheapest RN to BSN online programs in the state, making them strong options for nurses who want to build on their education while managing costs.

1. Morningside University

Morningside University's online RN to BSN program offers a flexible, affordable pathway for registered nurses to advance their education. Designed for those with an associate degree in nursing, the program allows students to transfer up to 94 credits, potentially completing the BSN in as little as one year.

Courses are delivered in eight-week blocks, enabling students to begin in the fall, spring, or summer terms. Students can tailor their study plans to fit their schedules, choosing to accelerate or extend their coursework as needed.

• Estimated tuition cost: $340 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Morningside University offers various financial aid options, including federal and state grants, private scholarships, and GI Bill benefits. The Office of Financial Planning assists students in exploring these opportunities to make education more affordable.
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

2. Northwestern College

Northwestern College offers an RN to BSN program that students can complete in as few as 12 months, depending on transfer credits and course load. Courses are offered in an accelerated, eight-week format and begin every fall, spring, and summer term.

The program includes 30 credits of required coursework, and transfer evaluations are available to help students plan their degree path. All classes are taught by Northwestern faculty who are academically qualified and experienced in healthcare education. The program operates on a rolling admission basis, allowing students to apply at any time.

• Estimated tuition cost: $360 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Northwestern College offers financial support through federal aid, scholarships, and employer tuition assistance.
• Accreditation: HLC and CCNE

3. Briar Cliff University

Located in Sioux City, Briar Cliff University offers an RN to BSN program online. The program requires 30 nursing credits to complete the degree and is structured to support students who already hold an associate degree or nursing diploma.

Online courses are taught by experienced nursing faculty and are offered in eight-week sessions, allowing for flexible pacing. Students also benefit from personalized advising and access to online campus resources throughout their studies.

• Estimated tuition cost: $375 per credit
• Financial aid: Briar Cliff offers federal financial aid, institutional scholarships, and tuition discounts for eligible transfer students and those employed by partner healthcare organizations.
• Accreditation: HLC and CCNE

4. University of Iowa

Students enrolled in the RN to BSN program at the University of Iowa complete the degree through a combination of online coursework and a leadership practicum. The program begins each fall and is designed to be completed in three semesters of part-time study.

The program includes required in-person attendance at a one-day orientation and a two-day immersion session during the final semester. Admission is offered on a rolling basis, with priority given to those who apply by the published deadlines.

• Estimated tuition cost: $534 per credit
• Financial aid: The University of Iowa provides financial aid through federal loans, scholarships, grants, and work-study options.
• Accreditation: HLC and CCNE

Other Affordable Online RN to BSN Programs

For students in Iowa exploring additional online options, several neighboring states offer accredited RN to BSN programs with competitive tuition rates. These programs provide flexible formats that may appeal to those seeking alternatives just beyond state lines. The following colleges in nearby states offer affordable pathways to earning your BSN online.

University of Illinois Chicago

Based in Chicago, this online RN to BSN program is offered through the University of Illinois system. The curriculum is offered in an asynchronous format and can be completed in as few as 16 months. The program also includes support services such as access to academic advisers and technical assistance.

With transfer-friendly policies and flexible pacing, the program allows students to move through the coursework efficiently. Out-of-state students can apply without any additional tuition fees, making this a practical option for nurses across the country.

• Estimated tuition cost: $330 per credit hour
• Financial aid: UIC offers multiple funding options including institutional scholarships, external nursing scholarships, and support through FAFSA-based aid.
• Accreditation: HLC and CCNE

Southeast Missouri State University

Students enrolled in the RN to BSN program at Southeast Missouri State University can complete their degree entirely online. The program consists of 30 credit hours and is organized into accelerated eight-week terms, which allows students to take fewer courses at a time while maintaining steady progress.

Based in Cape Girardeau, the university provides access to resources like academic advising and student success services tailored for online learners. The curriculum builds on prior nursing experience and offers multiple start dates throughout the year.

• Estimated tuition cost: $339.80 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Southeast Missouri State University offers institutional scholarships, federal and state grants, and payment plan options to help eligible students cover tuition costs.
• Accreditation: HLC and CCNE

Rasmussen University

Rasmussen University's RN to BSN program is structured for flexibility since it lets students begin classes every one to two months. The online format consists of 24 total credits for those who have already completed an Associate Degree in Nursing, making it a relatively short path to a bachelor's degree. Students can also take advantage of the school's Self-Directed Assessment option, which provides an alternative method to earn credit by demonstrating knowledge through assessments.

• Estimated tuition cost: $345 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Rasmussen University provides opportunities such as the RN to BSN Get Started Grant, along with access to federal aid programs for qualifying students.
• Accreditation: HLC and CCNE

Northwest Missouri State University

The RN to BSN program at Northwest Missouri State University is structured for licensed registered nurses who want to expand their qualifications with a bachelor's degree. This 30-credit hour program is offered 100% online and includes six start dates per year, allowing students to begin when it best fits their schedule.

Located in Maryville, MO, the university supports distance learners through access to academic services and experienced faculty. The program encourages timely degree completion with courses that can be completed in as few as seven weeks.

• Estimated tuition cost: $357.80 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Northwest Missouri State University offers a variety of financial aid resources, including institutional scholarships, federal grants, and loan programs to help students manage tuition costs.
• Accreditation: HLC and CCNE

Illinois State University

Students can complete the RN to BSN program through Illinois State University in as few as 12 months, depending on transfer credits and course load. The program is offered entirely online with multiple start dates throughout the year. This format supports students who want to continue their education on a flexible schedule.

Located in Normal, IL, the university offers extensive faculty support and access to academic resources throughout the program. The curriculum is structured to build on previous nursing education and licensure while encouraging academic and professional growth through a convenient distance-learning format.

• Estimated tuition cost: $403 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Illinois State University provides financial assistance through scholarships, tuition waivers, federal grants, and student loan opportunities.
• Accreditation: HLC and CCNE

Herzing University

Students in Herzing University's RN to BSN program can complete their degree online with start dates offered throughout the year. The program is structured to allow learners to move at their own pace, with dedicated support from nursing faculty.

Based in Wisconsin, Herzing serves students across the country through its online platform, offering academic and career resources tailored to nursing professionals. The curriculum is structured in eight-week terms, and the university provides access to transfer credit evaluations to help shorten the path to graduation.

• Estimated tuition cost: $430 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Herzing University offers financial aid through federal student loans, grants, scholarships, and tuition discounts for military students and eligible transfer students.
• Accreditation: HLC and CCNE

How We Rank Schools

To help you find RN to BSN programs that offer real value, we evaluated each school using clear, consistent criteria. The programs on this list meet regional and programmatic accreditation standards, offer online or hybrid formats, and keep tuition rates low.

• Accreditation: We included only schools accredited by recognized agencies such as the Higher Learning Commission and Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
• Affordability: Each program costs around or less than $500 per credit hour, offering lower overall tuition and access to financial aid options like FAFSA, grants, or scholarships.
• Program reputation: We considered nursing program outcomes, student support services, and institutional standing to highlight programs that are respected in the healthcare and academic communities.

How To Pay for Your Nursing Degree

Earning a BSN doesn't have to come with overwhelming debt. Many students begin by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. You can enroll at an online school that accepts FAFSA in Iowa to participate in federal aid.

In addition to FAFSA-based aid, some colleges offer institutional scholarships or tuition discounts specifically for nursing students or those enrolled in online programs. Employers may also help offset costs through tuition reimbursement benefits. If you're currently working as a nurse, check with your human resources department to learn if this is available.

FAQs About Cheap Online RN to BSN Programs

Online RN to BSN programs offer flexibility, but students often have questions about timelines, job prospects, coursework, and admissions. Below are answers to some of the most common questions to help you better understand what to expect from an online RN to BSN degree.

How Long Does It Take To Finish an RN to BSN Program?

The fastest online RN to BSN programs usually are nine to 12 months long for full-time students. If you enroll part-time, it could take you up to two years to finish your degree. Before enrolling, it's important to verify the program's pacing options and whether it offers multiple start dates throughout the year.

What Jobs Can I Have With a BSN?

A BSN can qualify graduates for a variety of roles beyond bedside care. BSN-prepared nurses often work as charge nurses, case managers, public health nurses, or school nurses. Some take on administrative or leadership roles in hospitals or community health organizations.

A BSN may also open doors to specialized areas like informatics, education, or quality improvement. Employers increasingly prefer or require BSN degrees due to the emphasis on clinical judgment, leadership, and communication skills.

What Are the Admission Requirements for an RN to BSN Program?

Most of the easiest RN to BSN programs online still require applicants to hold an active, unencumbered RN license and a nursing diploma or associate degree from an accredited institution. Other typical requirements include official transcripts, a minimum GPA (often around 2.5), and completion of prerequisite coursework in subjects like anatomy and microbiology. Some schools may request a personal statement or letters of recommendation.

What Courses Will I Take in an RN to BSN Program?

Coursework in an RN to BSN program typically includes classes in health assessment, nursing leadership, community and public health, and evidence-based practice. Students may also study nursing informatics, ethics, and policy.

The curriculum is designed to expand critical thinking and analytical skills, building on the clinical experience gained during RN training. Some programs include a capstone or practicum that allows students to apply what they've learned in real-world settings.

How Much Do RNs With a BSN Make?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses earn a median annual wage of about $93,600, though actual salaries can vary by location, experience, and role. Nurses with a BSN may qualify for higher-paying positions in leadership or specialized fields, increasing their earning potential.

Find Online Nursing Programs

Use the information above to explore RN to BSN programs that align with your budget, career goals, and schedule. Learn.org features accredited online programs that provide flexible options and competitive tuition, making it easier to take the next step in your nursing career.