How Long Is an Online RN to BSN Degree Program?

If you're an RN who has completed an associate degree or diploma program, you may be thinking about pursuing a bachelor's degree. But you're wondering how long it's going to take.

Keep reading as we go over how the standard RN to BSN programs can be completed in 9 to 24 months and look at a few related questions you may have about completing these programs as fast as possible.

How Long Does It Take to Complete an RN to BSN Degree?

RN to BSN degrees are essentially degree-completion programs; those entering the program already have some college credits and may have already worked as an RN. As such, RN to BSN programs are typically shorter than traditional bachelor's degree programs.

Most RN to BSN programs can be completed in 9 to 24 months, depending on the school offering the program. Some schools offer accelerated programs, allowing students to graduate even faster.

For one thing, some RN to BSN programs require more credit hours to graduate than others. Those requiring fewer credit hours can be completed more quickly.

If you have a significant number of transfer credits you can bring into the program, you will also graduate more quickly. The fewer credit hours you have to complete, the faster you will graduate.

Should You Pursue an RN to BSN Degree?

Though it is possible to become a registered nurse (RN) by completing an associate degree, the vast majority of employers prefer candidates who hold a bachelor's degree.

In fact, in some states, having a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is required to become a registered nurse.

Even if your state does not require this, you may want to pursue a BSN degree to deepen your knowledge or pursue career advancements.

For example, if you would like to become a nurse practitioner, manager, or specialist, you may need to pursue advanced education that is only available to those holding a BSN.

What's more, RNs holding a BSN are often paid higher salaries than those who only have an associate degree.

For all of these reasons and more, it is a good idea to consider pursuing an RN to BSN degree. This type of degree is a good option for those who already have some training and experience as a nurse but do not yet hold a bachelor's degree in the field.

How Many RN to BSN Programs Are There in the U.S.?

Because nursing is such an in-demand field, RN to BSN degree programs are extremely popular. There are many schools throughout the country offering these types of programs.

The American Association of Colleges of Nursing reports that there are nearly 800 RN to BSN programs available in the United States.

The vast majority of these programs (more than 600) are completed either partially or entirely online, giving students an extra level of flexibility in their studies.

What Are Some Schools That Offer RN to BSN Programs?

Are you ready to enroll in an RN to BSN program? Let's take a closer look at a couple of top schools offering affordable RN to BSN degrees.

1. Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University is one of the largest Christian schools in the United States. Headquartered in Arizona, it provides both campus-based and online degree programs for nearly 100,000 students.

The school's RN to BSN degree can be completed entirely online. The program boasts accelerated 5-week courses and enables students to graduate within just 14 months.

What's more, the school allows students to transfer up to 90 credit hours, so those with extensive transfer credits can graduate even more quickly.

2. Western Governors University

Western Governors University is a fully online university headquartered in Utah. It was established in 1997 and enrolls more than 150,000 students.

This school offers a competency-based learning format that allows students to progress through their courses at their own pace. Tuition is charged per six-month term instead of per credit hour.

Most students graduate from the program within 24 months. However, students with significant transfer credits, as well as those who study quickly, can save a lot of money on their education.

3. Capella University

Capella University is another online-only university. It is headquartered in Minnesota and enrolls more than 41,000 students from around the country.

Capella's RN to BSN program can be completed following either an instructor-paced timeline or a self-paced format. Those who choose the FlexPath (self-paced) format often graduate within just nine months.

This RN to BSN program boasts low tuition, especially for those who progress through the program quickly. The degree requires a total of 180 quarter credits, with the ability to transfer up to 135 of those credits into the program.

Start the Path To Completing Your RN to BSN Degree Today

Ready to take your nursing career to the next level with a bachelor's degree? Most RN to BSN degree programs can be completed within 9 to 24 months, and many offer the flexibility of online or hybrid study options.