4 Best Online RN to BSN Programs in Minnesota

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) has become a popular degree option for registered nurses who are interested in expanding their careers.

However, earning a bachelor's degree while working a full-time nursing job can be overwhelming for many students.

Nursing programs recognize the difficulty of attending classes and working full-time, which is why many offer online degree options with tremendous flexibility.

Learn all about the benefits of online BSN programs, and find out which schools enable students to pursue the best online RN to BSN programs in Minnesota.

Top Minnesota RN to BSN Programs Online

Explore the following online nursing programs for students interested in completeing one of the cheapest RN to BSN programs in Minnesota.

1. Minnesota State University - Mankato

The RN Baccalaureate Completion Online program at Minnesota State University - Mankato is a 100% online RN to BSN program for licensed registered nurses.

The 30-credit CCNE-accredited program offers an asynchronous format, which enables students to study coursework during times that align with their personal schedules.

Qualified program candidates can benefit from five flexible start times, guaranteed admission, and completion in just one year of full-time study, one of the shortest online RN to BSN programs in the state.

Both eight-week and 16-week course options are available. Students can also combine the two.

2. St. Catherine University

St. Catherine University is home to the RN-BSN Degree Completion program for registered nurses who already possess an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN).

The 22-credit online program prepares current RNs for careers in school systems, hospices, hospitals, assisted living facilities, and more.

The program's accelerated format enables students to complete their studies in 10 to 12 months. Entry periods are available in the fall, spring, and summer.

Students are allowed to transfer into the program up to 90 credits.

3. Winona State University

Winona State University offers a 57-credit online Nursing RN-to-BS degree completion program for RNs with aspirations of becoming nursing leaders or managers.

Courses are offered in an asynchronous format so students can study anytime and from any location.

Starting dates begin in the fall and spring semesters. Students have the flexibility to complete their studies within a one-to-four-year timeframe.

The program touts a stellar success rate with 96% of its students finding employment in the nursing field after graduating.

4. The College of St. Scholastica

Students attending The College of St. Scholastica can enroll in the RN to BS in Nursing degree program, which offers a 100% online, flexible learning format.

The 42-credit, CCNE-accredited program offers six convenient start terms and allows students to earn their BSN in just one year.

The program's Population-Based Care course is designed to ensure students are eligible for MN Public Health in Nursing Certification after graduating.

At The College of St. Scholastica, statistics is not required for degree completion.

Other Online Colleges Available to Minnesota Residents

Alongside nursing programs offering the RN to BSN degree in Minnesota are schools that provide online RN to BSN options nationally. Keep reading to learn more.

Capella University

The RN-to-BSN program from Capella University is a CCNE-accredited degree option for RNs interested in careers in pediatrics, case management, supervision, and more.

The online program consists of eight Core courses and allows students to transfer in as many as 132 credits.

Capella offers two learning formats: GuidedPath and FlexPath.

GuidedPath offers a structured academic experience with one to three courses each 10-week quarter.

FlexPath is a self-paced learning option and can be completed in just nine months.

Purdue Global

At Purdue Global, students can choose between two online BSN programs: the RN-to-BSN and the RN-to-BSN with ExcelTrack.

The traditional RN-to-BSN is a 100% online program enabling students to earn their bachelor's degree in as few as 18 months with full-time study.

The RN-to-BSN with ExcelTrack is also fully online, but is self-paced with greater flexibility so students can complete their studies in just 12 months.

Both programs are CCNE-accredited and offer multiple start dates each year.

Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University offers an RN to BSN online program that prepares students for careers in ambulatory care centers, hospitals, and other healthcare settings.

Most courses in this degree program last just five weeks, enabling students to complete their core coursework in as few as 14 months.

Students can transfer in as many as 90 credits with 84 being lower division.

The program's coursework covers nursing leadership and management, statistical analysis for healthcare, health promotion, and much more.

University of Phoenix

The University of Phoenix houses a flexible online RN-to-BSN degree program the requires no application fee, essay, or transcript request fees.

The program accepts RNs who do not possess an ADN and offers the ability to finish in two and a half years. RNs with an ADN can complete the program in 14 months.

Core program courses focus on nursing leadership, healthcare policy, ethics in healthcare, and health information technology for nursing.

Liberty University

Liberty University students can choose between three RN to BSN programs.

The traditional RN to BSN is a 120-credit program that allows students to transfer up to 75% of their degree total.

The 128-credit RN to BSN - Global Studies program is for RNs interested in practicing nursing in countries outside of the U.S.

The 153-credit RN to BSN to MSN - Accelerated Program helps RNs earn both their BSN and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).

Each program offers 100% online coursework.

Walden University

Walden University offers the Bachelor of Science in Nursing RN to BSN Online Completion Program for students looking to earn their degree in about one year.

The CCNE-accredited program offers two unique learning options.

The Course-Based option is designed for students interested in learning with others via a pre-set schedule and faculty guidance.

The Tempo Learning� option enables students to work independently with no deadlines. Faculty members support students rather than guide them through their courses.

What Is an RN to BSN Program?

An RN to BSN program is designed for registered nurses who already possess their nursing diploma or Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and want to earn a BSN.

These bachelor's degree programs aim to help RNs expand their nursing careers through coursework that focuses on nursing leadership, health equity, ethics in healthcare, and more.

Since students are typically able to transfer their ADN credits to the BSN program, they are often able to complete their studies in about one year.

Many current RN to BSN programs are offered partially or fully online with flexible start dates and a self-paced learning format.

Why Is RN to BSN Important?

An RN to BSN program helps students acquire the level of education needed to excel in their nursing careers.

While it is common for RNs with an Associate Degree in Nursing to qualify for entry-level positions, RNs who possess BSNs often secure positions in research, teaching, and consulting.

Also, a growing number of employers are showing a preference for RNs with a bachelor's degree over an associate degree.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for registered nurses is promising. Employment is projected to grow six percent from 2021 to 2031.

Earning a BSN gives registered nurses the best chance at securing a quality nursing career as new job opportunities arise.

Requirements for RN to BSN Programs in Minnesota

The admission requirements for the RN to BSN degree in Minnesota vary from school to school; however, many programs require:

• unrestricted RN licensure from at least one state with eligibility for licensure in Minnesota
• the completion of an Associate Degree in Nursing, a nursing diploma, or a minimum number of college semester credits
• a minimum total cumulative GPA
• a minimum GPA in previous nursing courses
• admission to the college or university housing the nursing program

While many RN to BSN degree in Minnesota programs require students to possess an ADN to gain admission, some of the easiest RN to BSN online programs enroll students without their associate degree.

Begin Your Online RN to BSN Program Today

Earning a BSN degree gives you an amazing opportunity to take your nursing journey to new heights. Pursue an online RN to BSN degree in Minnesota and jumpstart the next stage of your nursing career.