9 Cheapest RN to BSN Programs Online in Louisiana 2026

<h3 id="section---1.UniversityOfLouisianaAtMonroe">1. University of Louisiana at Monroe</h3><p>The University of Louisiana at Monroe (ULM) has a strong reputation for supporting nontraditional and working students, particularly in its online degree offerings. Its RN to BSN program is entirely online and caters to licensed registered nurses who are looking to complete their BSN while maintaining their current responsibilities. The program requires 30 credit hours of nursing coursework beyond the associate degree and accepts up to 90 transfer credits. </p><ul><li><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $200 per credit hour </li><li><b>Financial aid:</b> ULM offers various financial aid options, including scholarships and grants, to eligible students. </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.McNeeseStateUniversity">2. McNeese State University</h3><p>McNeese State University offers a completely online RN to BSN program that accepts transfer credits and features rolling start dates throughout the year, making it easy to begin when you're ready. Students can progress through the curriculum at a pace that fits their professional and personal obligations. The tuition rate varies depending on enrollment status and eligibility for partner pricing, which may reduce costs for some students. </p><ul><li><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $233 to $300 per credit hour </li><li><b>Financial aid:</b> McNeese offers various financial aid options, including scholarships and grants, to support students financially. </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> SACSCOC and CCNE </li></ul><h3 id="section---3.LouisianaStateUniversityHealthSciencesCenterNewOrleans">3. Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center New Orleans</h3><p>Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans offers a fully online RN to BSN program that consists of 30 upper-level nursing credit hours and can be completed in as few as three semesters, depending on the student's schedule. Clinical learning is integrated in a community setting, often arranged near the student's location. </p><p>As part of the LSU System, the school brings a strong reputation in healthcare education and provides access to experienced faculty, technical support, and academic advising throughout the program. </p><ul><li><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $270 per credit hour </li><li><b>Financial aid:</b> Financial assistance is available through federal aid programs and institutional scholarships for qualifying students. </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> SACSCOC and CCNE </li></ul><h3 id="section---3.UniversityOfLouisianaAtLafayette">3. University of Louisiana at Lafayette</h3><p>Known for its strong commitment to student success, the University of Louisiana (UL) at Lafayette provides an RN to BSN program online that fits the schedules of busy registered nurses. Students can move through the curriculum in accelerated eight-week course formats, which means it's possible to finish the required 30 nursing credits in under a year. </p><p>The program is part of UL Lafayette's respected Department of Nursing, housed within the College of Nursing &amp; Health Sciences—one of the largest nursing schools in the state. Dedicated academic advisors and support staff are available to help students navigate each step of their degree path. </p><ul><li><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $283 per credit hour </li><li><b>Financial aid:</b> UL Lafayette provides financial aid options, including scholarships and grants, to assist students in funding their education. </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> SACSCOC and CCNE </li></ul><h3 id="section---4.SoutheasternLouisianaUniversity">4. Southeastern Louisiana University</h3><p>At Southeastern Louisiana University, RNs can earn their BSN online in as few as three semesters. Students benefit from the university's long-standing reputation for accessible, student-centered education and a strong presence in Louisiana's healthcare community. With multiple start dates throughout the year and academic support built in, Southeastern's RN to BSN pathway offers a streamlined route to furthering your nursing credentials. </p><ul><li><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $306 per credit hour </li><li><b>Financial aid:</b> Southeastern provides various financial aid opportunities, including federal aid and institutional scholarships, for eligible students. </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> SACSCOC and CCNE </li></ul><h3 id="section---5.LouisianaStateUniversityAlexandria">5. Louisiana State University Alexandria</h3><p>Louisiana State University Alexandria (LSUA), part of the LSU System, offers an online RN to BSN program that takes one year to complete. Housed within LSUA's College of Health and Human Services, the program offers six start dates each year and seven-week course formats to support flexible scheduling. The curriculum builds on previous nursing education and is structured to meet the needs of working professionals who want to finish their degree quickly without compromising on academic quality. </p><ul><li><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $340 per credit hour </li><li><b>Financial aid:</b> LSUA offers financial aid options, including federal aid and scholarships, to assist students in covering educational expenses. </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> SACSCOC and Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) </li></ul><h3 id="section---6.NichollsStateUniversity">6. Nicholls State University</h3><p>Nicholls State University offers an online RN to BSN program with flexible scheduling and multiple start dates throughout the year. The program is structured to fit the needs of working adults, allowing students to take courses at a manageable pace. Academic support and advising are available throughout the program. </p><ul><li><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $375 per credit hour </li><li><b>Financial aid:</b> Nicholls provides financial aid opportunities, including federal aid and institutional scholarships, for qualifying students. </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> SACSCOC and CCNE </li></ul><h3 id="section---7.NorthwesternStateUniversityOfLouisiana">7. Northwestern State University of Louisiana</h3><p>Northwestern State University of Louisiana offers an online RN to BSN program that allows students to complete their degree on a flexible schedule. The university has a well-established reputation for nursing education and provides strong academic support throughout the program. Students benefit from experienced faculty, accessible resources, and a learning environment that prepares them for broader roles in today's healthcare landscape. </p><ul><li><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $375 per credit hour </li><li><b>Financial aid:</b> NSU offers various financial aid options, including scholarships and grants, to assist students in funding their education. </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> SACSCOC and CCNE </li></ul><h3 id="section---8.SouthernUniversityAndAMCollege">8. Southern University and A&amp;M College</h3><p>Southern University and A&amp;M College offers an RN to BSN program through its School of Nursing, one of the first nationally accredited nursing schools at a historically Black college or university. Delivered in an online format, the program spans 30 credit hours and is structured to be completed in just three semesters. With multiple start dates and student-focused support services, it's a practical option for nurses looking to move forward in their careers. </p><ul><li><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $395 per credit hour </li><li><b>Financial aid:</b> Southern University offers financial aid options, including federal aid and scholarships, to support students financially. </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> SACSCOC and CCNE </li></ul><h2 id="section---OtherAffordableOnlineRNToBSNPrograms">Other Affordable Online RN to BSN Programs</h2><p>In addition to Louisiana-based programs, neighboring states offer accredited and affordable online RN to BSN programs suitable for Louisiana residents. </p><h3 id="section---MississippiCollege">Mississippi College</h3><p>Mississippi College offers an RN to BSN program that is delivered entirely online, making it a convenient choice for Louisiana nurses. The program consists of 10 nursing courses totaling 30 credit hours. Students benefit from individualized advising and the college's reputation for academic support in a Christian-based learning environment. </p><ul><li><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $316 per credit hour </li><li><b>Financial aid:</b> Mississippi College provides various financial aid options, including scholarships and grants, to assist students in funding their education. </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> SACSCOC and CCNE </li></ul><h3 id="section---UniversityOfTexasAtArlington">University of Texas at Arlington</h3><p>The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) offers a 100% online RN to BSN program with multiple start dates available throughout the year. The program allows students to complete 35 nursing credit hours, with many courses offered in five- to 10-week formats. UTA's large network of healthcare partnerships across Texas also supports career development after graduation. </p><ul><li><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $257 per credit hour </li><li><b>Financial aid:</b> UTA offers various financial aid options, including scholarships and grants, to support students financially. </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> SACSCOC and CCNE </li></ul><h2 id="section---HowWeRankSchools">How We Rank Schools</h2><p>To identify the most affordable and reputable online RN to BSN programs in Louisiana, we apply consistent criteria to each college or university. This ensures the programs we feature are not only cost-effective but also maintain educational quality and value for nursing professionals. </p><ul><li><b>Accreditation:</b>Each program is accredited by recognized agencies such as SACSCOC, CCNE, or ACEN to ensure it meets established academic and professional nursing standards. </li><li><b>Affordability:</b> We focus on schools that offer tuition rates of $500 per credit hour or less, making them financially accessible for most students. </li><li><b>Program reputation:</b> We consider factors such as graduation outcomes, institutional support, and faculty credentials to highlight programs known for quality and student satisfaction. </li></ul><h2 id="section---HowToPayForYourNursingDegree">How To Pay for Your Nursing Degree</h2><p>Paying for an RN to BSN degree in Louisiana can be manageable with the right financial support. Most universities offering online RN to BSN programs participate in federal financial aid, which means you may be eligible for grants, subsidized loans, and work-study opportunities. To get started, fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Many <a href="https://learn.org/articles/online_colleges_accept_fafsa_louisiana.html">online schools that accept FAFSA</a> also provide institutional scholarships based on merit, need, or prior academic achievement. </p><p>In addition to federal aid, students should explore state-level resources, such as scholarships through the Louisiana Office of Student Financial Assistance (LOSFA) or programs offered through their specific university's financial aid office. Some Louisiana colleges offer nursing-specific scholarships or discounted rates for in-state students, which can make a significant difference in total costs. </p><h2 id="section---FAQsAboutOnlineRNToBSNProgramsInLouisiana">FAQs About Online RN to BSN Programs in Louisiana</h2><p>Below are answers to common questions about online BSN completion programs, particularly for licensed nurses in Louisiana or nearby states. </p><h3 id="section---HowLongDoOnlineRNToBSNProgramsTypicallyTake">How Long Do Online RN to BSN Programs Typically Take?</h3><p>Most online RN to BSN programs in Louisiana can be completed in 12 to 18 months, depending on whether students enroll part-time or full-time. Some universities offer accelerated formats with seven- or eight-week course sessions that allow faster degree completion. Others may allow more flexibility in pacing, especially for nurses balancing professional or family responsibilities. </p><h3 id="section---AreOnlineRNToBSNProgramsAccreditedInLouisiana">Are Online RN to BSN Programs Accredited in Louisiana?</h3><p>Accreditation is a key factor to consider. All programs listed in this article are accredited by regional and nursing-specific accrediting bodies such as the SACSCOC and either the CCNE or the ACEN. These accreditations ensure the program meets educational quality standards and prepares students for professional advancement. </p><h3 id="section---CanITransferPreviousNursingCreditsIntoAnRNToBSNProgram">Can I Transfer Previous Nursing Credits Into an RN to BSN Program?</h3><p>Yes, many Louisiana colleges allow RNs to transfer prior coursework from associate degree or diploma nursing programs. This reduces the number of credits needed to complete the BSN. Transfer policies vary by school, so it's important to check how your credits will apply and whether general education requirements are satisfied. </p><h3 id="section---DoAnyRNToBSNProgramsOfferFlexibleLearning">Do Any RN to BSN Programs Offer Flexible Learning?</h3><p>Several RN to BSN programs offer flexible scheduling, including asynchronous online formats, self-paced coursework, or accelerated class sessions. These models can make it easier for students to complete their degree while working. Some of the <a href="https://learn.org/articles/easiest_rn_to_bsn_online.html">easiest RN to BSN program online</a> options prioritize accessibility and time-saving features that appeal to busy professionals. </p><h3 id="section---WhatIsTheFastestWayToEarnABSNOnline">What Is the Fastest Way To Earn a BSN Online?</h3><p>The <a href="https://learn.org/articles/shortest_rn_to_bsn_online.html">fastest RN to BSN program online</a> can typically be completed in under a year, especially when students enroll in full-time, accelerated programs. In Louisiana, some colleges offer multiple start dates per year and intensive short-term courses to help students finish quickly, especially if they transfer in a large number of credits. </p><h2 id="section---FindOnlineNursingPrograms">Find Online Nursing Programs</h2><p>The schools featured here offer accredited, flexible, and affordable pathways to help you complete your BSN. Contact the colleges today to find a nursing program that fits your timeline, budget, and career goals.</p>