7 Cheapest RN to BSN Programs Online in Minnesota 2025

<p>Balancing a full-time job in nursing with educational goals doesn't have to mean putting your career on pause. In Minnesota, several universities make it possible to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) entirely online, giving registered nurses a practical path to build on their existing credentials. These programs cater to experienced professionals looking to deepen their clinical knowledge, pursue new opportunities, or prepare for leadership roles in healthcare. </p> <p>For nurses comparing options across the state or the country, exploring <a href="https://learn.org/articles/affordable_online_degrees_rn_to_bsn.html">affordable RN to BSN online programs</a> can help narrow down schools that provide both academic quality and financial value. Keep reading to find the right program for your budget and timeline. </p> <h2 id="section---MostAffordableOnlineRNToBSNPrograms">Most Affordable Online RN to BSN Programs</h2> <p>Minnesota offers a number of affordable and flexible RN to BSN pathways that are ideal for working nurses. These are some of the <a href="https://learn.org/articles/online_rn_to_bsn_minnesota.html">best online RN to BSN programs</a> in the state with online or hybrid options that provide practical, accessible learning without breaking the bank. </p> <h3 id="section---1.MinnesotaStateUniversityMoorhead">1. Minnesota State University Moorhead</h3> <p>Minnesota State University Moorhead's (MSU Moorhead) RN to BSN program is built for working nurses who want to move up in their careers. Offered fully online, this program allows students to work at their own pace, completing courses in as little as one year. </p> <p>The curriculum builds on prior nursing education and encourages critical thinking and leadership skills in community and public health settings. Courses start in fall, spring, or summer terms, giving students flexibility to begin when it works best for them. </p> <p><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $294.59 per credit hour (in-state); $589.18 per credit hour (out-of-state) </p> <p><b>Financial aid:</b> MSU Moorhead offers scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities to eligible students. </p> <p><b>Accreditation:</b> Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) </p> <h3 id="section---2.SouthwestMinnesotaStateUniversity">2. Southwest Minnesota State University</h3> <p>The RN to BSN program at Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU) is offered entirely online, making it ideal for working nurses who need schedule flexibility. Students can complete the 30 required credits in as few as 10 months, depending on transfer credits and course load. </p> <p>This program teaches professional nursing leadership, population-focused care, and research in clinical practice. SMSU values quality and accessibility, as it offers multiple start dates and supportive advising throughout the duration of your degree program. </p> <p><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $305 per credit hour </p> <p><b>Financial aid:</b> Financial assistance includes federal aid, SMSU Foundation scholarships, and state grant options. </p> <p><b>Accreditation:</b> CCNE </p> <h3 id="section---3.St.CloudStateUniversity">3. St. Cloud State University</h3> <p>St. Cloud State University's (St. Cloud State) RN to BSN program is designed with flexibility in mind, with personalized support and frequent start dates. Offered fully online, it's structured in seven-week terms that allow students to take one or two courses at a time while continuing to work. The program supports both full-time and part-time enrollment and focuses on areas like culturally sensitive care, population health, and evidence-based practice. </p> <p><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $350 per credit hour </p> <p><b>Financial aid:</b> St. Cloud State provides financial assistance, including the North Star Promise Scholarship and federal financial aid. </p> <p><b>Accreditation:</b> CCNE </p> <h3 id="section---4.MetropolitanStateUniversity">4. Metropolitan State University</h3> <p>Metropolitan State University (Metropolitan State) offers an RN to BSN program that is both affordable and flexible. The online format makes it possible to complete coursework around a full-time work schedule, and the curriculum focuses on professional development, ethics, and leadership. </p> <p>Students benefit from support services like online tutoring and advising. Additionally, courses are taught by experienced faculty with a focus on advancing nurses' skills for today's healthcare systems. </p> <p><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $358.08 per credit hour </p> <p><b>Financial aid:</b> Metropolitan State offers a range of financial aid options, including federal grants, scholarships, and tuition assistance. </p> <p><b>Accreditation:</b> CCNE </p> <h3 id="section---5.MinnesotaStateUniversityMankato">5. Minnesota State University, Mankato</h3> <p>Minnesota State University, Mankato (MSU Mankato) offers a 100% online RN to BSN program that can be completed in as few as two semesters. In this program, nursing students develop advanced skills in leadership, ethics, and population-based care. </p> <p>With multiple entry points throughout the year, the program is flexible for students juggling professional and personal responsibilities. The university also provides strong advising support to help students complete their degree efficiently. </p> <p><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $9,572 (in-state); $18,942 (out-of-state) </p> <p><b>Financial aid:</b> MSU Mankato supports students with scholarships, work-study, and federal financial aid packages. </p> <p><b>Accreditation:</b> CCNE </p> <h3 id="section---6.WinonaStateUniversity">6. Winona State University</h3> <p>The RN to BS Completion program at Winona State University (Winona State) is tailored to meet the needs of working nurses. The program is offered fully online and can be completed in one to two years. </p> <p>Here, you'll learn about important topics like professional nursing practice, health promotion, and community health. You'll also benefit from the university's focus on affordable access and quality education to guide you in your career growth. </p> <p><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $4,193.75 (Minnesota resident); $4,193.75 (Wisconsin resident); $7,559.85 (non-resident) </p> <p><b>Financial aid</b>: Winona State offers scholarships and federal and state financial aid options to support students throughout the program. </p> <p><b>Accreditation:</b> CCNE </p> <h3 id="section---7.HerzingUniversity">7. Herzing University</h3> <p>Herzing University's RN to BSN program offers fully online learning for registered nurses who want to complete their degree at a flexible pace. Students can take advantage of eight-week terms and complete the program in as little as 12 months. Herzing also offers transfer credit evaluations and student support services tailored to adult learners. </p> <p><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $430 per credit </p> <p><b>Financial aid:</b> Herzing provides scholarships, grants, and institutional aid to qualified students. </p> <p><b>Accreditation:</b> CCNE </p> <h2 id="section---OtherAffordableOnlineRNToBSNPrograms">Other Affordable Online RN to BSN Programs</h2> <p>If you're open to out-of-state schools, there are several affordable, fully online RN to BSN options available that offer low tuition rates and flexible formats. </p> <h3 id="section---UniversityOfLouisianaAtMonroe">University of Louisiana at Monroe</h3> <p>The University of Louisiana at Monroe offers a flexible and low-cost RN to BSN program entirely online. Students can complete the degree in as few as 14 months while continuing to work full-time. The program includes courses in health assessment, community health, and professional nursing. Start dates are offered throughout the year to accommodate varying schedules. </p> <p><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $200 per credit hour </p> <p><b>Financial aid:</b> ULM supports students with federal financial aid, institutional scholarships, and tuition payment plans. </p> <p><b>Accreditation:</b> CCNE </p> <h3 id="section---UniversityOfArkansasGrantham">University of Arkansas Grantham</h3> <p>The University of Arkansas Grantham (UA Grantham) provides an RN to BSN program that is both affordable and accessible to working professionals. This program builds on previous nursing education and includes courses in leadership, health assessment, and public health. Students can transfer up to 90 credits and start classes monthly, making it easy to begin when ready. </p> <p><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $339 per credit hour </p> <p><b>Financial aid:</b> UA Grantham offers financial support through grants, scholarships, and military education benefits. </p> <p><b>Accreditation:</b> CCNE </p> <h3 id="section---UniversityOfUtah">University of Utah</h3> <p>Nursing students can pursue the fully online RN to BSN program offered at the University of Utah. Designed to be completed in two semesters, students can choose full-time or part-time enrollment and gain access to university-wide support services. It's a strong option for nurses who want a short and academically rigorous path to completing their BSN. </p> <p><b>Estimated tuition cost:</b> $12,000 </p> <p><b>Financial aid:</b> The University of Utah offers financial aid packages that include scholarships, grants, and federal loans. </p> <p><b>Accreditation:</b> CCNE </p> <h2 id="section---HowToPayForYourNursingDegree">How To Pay for Your Nursing Degree</h2> <p>Nursing students in Minnesota can access a wide range of financial aid options to help cover the cost of earning their Bachelor of Science in Nursing. One of the most common sources of support is the <a href="https://www.ohe.state.mn.us/mPg.cfm?pageID=138">Minnesota State Grant</a>, which offers need-based aid to eligible students enrolled at public and private colleges in the state. This grant can significantly lower tuition costs and doesn't require repayment. </p> <p>Many Minnesota colleges also participate in institutional scholarship programs specifically for nursing students. These may include academic achievement awards, community service scholarships, or funds reserved for students who are first-generation college attendees. Applying early and submitting a strong Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) will increase your chances of qualifying. </p> <p>If you're currently working as a nurse, employer tuition reimbursement is another practical route. Health systems such as Mayo Clinic and CentraCare often provide financial support for employees pursuing higher education in healthcare-related fields. If you work at a hospital that offers tuition reimbursement, you may be able to get a portion of your tuition expenses covered. </p> <p>Minnesota students can also explore loan forgiveness options like the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program if they plan to work for nonprofit or public organizations. Additionally, <a href="https://learn.org/articles/online_colleges_accept_fafsa_minnesota.html">online schools that accept FAFSA</a> can open doors to federal grants, loans, and even work-study programs that help manage education expenses while enrolled. </p> <h2 id="section---FAQsAboutCheapOnlineRNToBSNPrograms">FAQs About Cheap Online RN to BSN Programs</h2> <p>If you're exploring RN to BSN programs, chances are you have questions about cost, time commitment, and return on investment. Below are answers to some of the most common questions nurses ask when comparing online options. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatIsTheMostAffordableRNToBSNProgram">What Is the Most Affordable RN to BSN Program?</h3> <p>The most affordable RN to BSN programs are often found at public universities offering in-state tuition rates or flat-rate online pricing. Schools like the University of Louisiana at Monroe and Minnesota State University Moorhead charge as little as $200 to $300 per credit hour. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatIsTheShortestRNToBSNProgram">What Is the Shortest RN to BSN Program?</h3> <p>Some programs allow you to finish in just two semesters, especially if you already have all general education courses completed. Schools offering accelerated tracks&mdash;such as the <a href="https://learn.org/articles/shortest_rn_to_bsn_online.html">fastest RN to BSN program online</a>&mdash;can reduce your total time to under a year. Completion time often depends on transfer credits and course load flexibility. </p> <h3 id="section---HowFastCanIGoFromRNToBSN">How Fast Can I Go From RN to BSN?</h3> <p>With transfer credits and a full-time schedule, it's possible to go from RN to BSN in as little as nine to 12 months. Some programs are structured in short terms, such as seven- or eight-week sessions, that help you finish faster. Others allow self-paced learning, which can speed up or slow down your timeline depending on your availability. </p> <h3 id="section---IsRNToBSNWorthIt">Is RN to BSN Worth It?</h3> <p>Many RNs find that earning a BSN opens up more career opportunities and helps meet employer expectations, particularly in hospitals seeking Magnet status. A BSN can also prepare you for graduate school, leadership roles, or specialized nursing areas. Even if you're satisfied with your current position, having a BSN may provide long-term job security and increased earning potential. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatMakesAnRNToBSNProgramEasierToComplete">What Makes an RN to BSN Program Easier to Complete?</h3> <p>The <a href="https://learn.org/articles/easiest_rn_to_bsn_online.html">easiest RN to BSN programs online</a> typically have flexible schedules, supportive faculty, and minimal in-person requirements. Some schools structure courses in shorter terms or use self-paced learning models. If you're looking for simplicity and flexibility, these programs may be worth considering. </p> <h2 id="section---FindOnlineNursingPrograms">Find Online Nursing Programs</h2> <p>Explore RN to BSN programs featured on Learn.org to find a degree that fits your career goals, timeline, and budget, and finish your bachelor's degree today.</p>