35 BEST ONLINE BACHELOR'S DEGREES IN NURSING

Nurses have an incredibly important job that impacts many individuals and their communities. An Associate's Degree can get you started as a Registered Nurse, but a Bachelor's Degree in Nursing can open more pathways for your success. Earning a nursing degree is also fiscally promising as well. The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the average annual pay for nurses at $71,730. Payscale breaks that number down further, showing that the average salary of an RN is $63,627 while the average salary for nurses with a bachelor's degree is $80,000.

A Bachelor's Degree in Nursing can also allow you to expand your career. Nurses with a bachelor's degree can fill more leadership and managerial positions and can have a stronger voice within their organization. Best Value School's 35 Best Online Bachelor's Degrees in Nursing allow registered nurses to a graduate with their Bachelor's of Science and give you the headstart needed to advance your career and make an impact in the world.

Selection Criteria

Best Value Schools publishes college degree rankings with the belief of how one's higher education should be, both, affordable and an investment of continued value for the students who pursue them. The staff of BVS collects data from reputable sources in order to calculate Net Price and the short and long-term value of every ranked degree. Collected data is simplified into weighted categories before scoring and then scaled through a BVS Score up to 100. The weighted categories are:

• Degree Investment Return (25%)
• Student & Alumni Evaluation (25%)
• Cost Value (25%)
• Matriculation (10%)
• Academic Success (15%)

No matter what degree you decide on, we hope our research and support has made the selection process easier. There are numerous resources BVS utilizes to collect information on degrees, and we encourage you to check them out for yourself!

Here are the 35 Best Online Bachelor's Degrees in Nursing!

35. University of Louisiana At Monroe - Monroe, LA

RN to BSN

Website

At the University of Louisiana at Monroe, students learn essential management and leadership principles. Graduates from ULM have a global view of management and an evidence-based approach to nursing care and problem-solving. They learn to communicate openly and well, and they become familiar with nursing technology and information management systems. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program can be completed in as little as 14 months, or it can be extended to give the student more time for completion. ULM provides ongoing guidance and support through faculty and advisors to help each student succeed. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. It offers multiple start dates throughout the year so that any student can begin their studies and move forward in their career.

Net Price: $10,787

Score: 87.3

34. Minot State University - Minot, ND

Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing

Website

The Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing from Minot State University is individualized and personal. Students can choose between full-time and part-time studies, and all courses can be completed online. Minot State University is ranked among the top 300 Best Online Bachelor's Programs by U.S. News & World Report. The BSN prepares students to communicate effectively both written and orally. They learn to understand and evaluate research and data. With enhanced critical thinking and decision making skills, graduates from the program will be prepared to fill leadership and management positions. The program covers various settings so that graduates can pursue nursing in different contexts.

Net Price: $10,252

Score: 87.7

33. Clarkson College - Omaha, NE

RN to BSN

Website

The online RN-to-BSN program at Clarkson College is flexible and affordable. In fact, Clarkson was named among the top 200 colleges in Money‘s list of Best Colleges for your Money. It was also ranked at No. 31 for Best Value Schools by U.S. News & World Report. The program maintains a small student-to-faculty ratio so that students receive personalized attention. There are accelerated study options for students who wish to finish their degree more quickly. Full-time students can complete the program in as few as three semesters, and part-time students can finish in six semesters. Forbes named Clarkson as the No. 100 for Top Research Universities. The school's focus on research extends to its hands-on approach to learning. Students take courses related to evidence-based practice, and all courses emphasize application to real-world situations. Graduates have a wider range of career possibilities and strong leadership skills.

Net Price: $21,655

Score: 87.8

32. Western Carolina University - Cullowhee, NC

RN to BSN

Website

The RN to BSN program from Western Carolina University is offered entirely online. Students develop an advanced knowledge of nursing through coursework and discussions. They receive hands-on, experiential learning through clinical partnerships and service learning programs. Students can complete precepted hours in their area. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the North Carolina Board of Nursing. There are two start dates, and the program can be completed in only four semesters.

Throughout the program, students learn to increase their professional communication skills. They also learn to collaborate in a team and work toward a common goal. WCU is named the No. 34 in Regional Universities South by U.S. News & World Report and No. 82 for Best Online Colleges in 2018 by The Best Schools. In today's ever-changing healthcare environment, WCU prepares its graduates to broaden their perspective and fill leadership positions.

Net Price: $14,456

Score: 88.1

31. Kent State University At Kent - Kent, OH

RN to BSN

Website

Kent State University at Kent is ranked at the No. 104 spot for Top Public Schools by U.S. News & World Report. The RN to BSN program is taught by excellent faculty members who are experienced leaders in their field. Faculty and advisors help students plan their program so that each student receives a customized education that fits their unique career goals. The program can be completed either full-time or part-time and can be done in as few as 12 months. The courses are taught entirely online with cutting-edge instructional technology. Classes start every seven weeks. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Net Price: $18,156

Score: 88.4

30. University of North Carolina At Charlotte - Charlotte, NC

RN to BSN

Website

The RN to BSN program from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the North Carolina Board of Nursing. There are no required campus visits, allowing students to continue with their work and family obligations while earning their degree. To allow greater flexibility, UNCC offers start dates in the spring, summer, and fall. UNCC provides an interdisciplinary approach, teaching students the ethics of teamwork and leadership. Students learn the importance of diversity and inclusion as they study community health. Students at UNCC stay up to date on cutting edge knowledge of nursing while studying relevant research in all aspects of nursing care. Forbes called UNCC the No. 102 for Top Colleges in the Region and U.S. News & World Report ranks it at No. 194 for National Universities.

Net Price: $14,811

Score: 88.4

29. University of Saint Francis - Fort Wayne - Fort Wayne, IN

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Website

The University of Saint Francis is affordable for students wishing to advance their careers. It was named No. 43 for Best Value Schools by U.S. News & World Report and made Money list of Best Colleges for your Money. The program is also flexible and convenient. Students can begin at any one of three start dates. Courses are completed in eight weeks, and the program is designed to take 12-24 months to complete. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Students receive support through their education with SmarThinking tutoring, the help of a success coach, and one-on-one mentorship opportunities with alumni. Students from Saint Francis learn to see nursing as service, caring, and lifelong learning. They learn effective communication and collaboration skills, they enhance their critical thinking and clinical judgment, and they learn to evaluate and apply evidence-based research. With an education from Saint Francis, students are prepared to fill leadership roles and improve health outcomes in their communities and organizations.

Net Price: $18,204

Score: 88.5

28. University of Massachusetts - Amherst - Amherst, MA

RN to BSN

Website

The University of Massachusetts-Amherst is a supportive community of learners. The curriculum is designed to combine instruction with hands-on practice. The excellent faculty members are involved in each student's education. They have real-world experience from a variety of settings, and they teach courses that can be immediately relevant and applicable. Graduates from the RN to BSN program are prepared to practice their skills in diverse settings. They join an alumni network of over 300,000. Each student completes a capstone project before graduation. This project helps them combine all of their knowledge and skills into one final project. UMass Amherst's RN to BSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. UMass is ranked at No. 70 for National University by U.S. News & World Report, No. 54 for Top Public Colleges by Forbes, and No. 87 for Best Colleges for your Money by Money.

Net Price: $21,281

Score: 89.0

27. Clemson University - Clemson, SC

RN to BSN

Website

Clemson University prepares its students for a variety of nursing settings. The RN to BS program includes courses in health care genetics; leadership and management in nursing; and research in nursing. To allow for greater flexibility, Clemson offers the RN to BS program entirely online. Students must attend an on-campus orientation day, but the rest of their courses can be completed at their convenience through Clemson's online platform. The program can be completed in 12 months, and students can choose to complete their program as full-time or part-time students. Clemson is named No. 66 for National Universities by U.S. News & World Report. It's nursing program also ranked No. 20 for Best Colleges for Nursing in America by Niche. Graduates from Clemson benefit from networking opportunities with faculty and alumni to help them excel.

Net Price: $18,757

Score: 89.1

26. The University of Alabama - Tuscaloosa, AL

RN to BSN

Website

A Bachelor's of Science Degree in Nursing can lead to increased pay, more job security, and opportunities to step into leadership positions. At The University of Alabama, a BSN is attainable and affordable. U.S. News & World Report ranks UA as No. 80 for Best Value Schools, and Best Value Schools ranks it at No. 2 for Best Value Schools in Alabama. The RN to BSN program is offered online, and clinical activities can be completed at facilities near the student. Full and part-time options are available, as well as an accelerated program for students interested in earning their MSN. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and offers start dates in the fall, spring, and summer. Graduates gain the training they need to be successful and to move forward in their career. Faculty at UA share their experience and knowledge with students, helping them immediately apply their learning. Princeton Review lists UA as No. 10 for Best Schools for Internships. Students graduate with experience, options, and opportunities.

Net Price: $19,993

Score: 89.2

25. Oklahoma State University - Stillwater, OK

RN to BSN

Website

Oklahoma State University offers a fully online RN to BSN degree that is personalized and unique. Students can complete the program as full-time or part-time students. Courses can be completed online or as a hybrid with some on-campus courses and some online. OSU has an excellent ratio of students to faculty, allowing students to interact with professors and received personalized attention and help. The program focuses on evidence-based practice and integrates the principles of health and wellness. Students at OSU learn to collaborate as a member of a diverse team and to widen their global perspective. Forbes ranks OSU as the No. 59 for Top Colleges in the South, and U.S. News & World Report ranks the University at No. 80 in its list of Top Public Schools. The RN to BSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Net Price: $14,513

Score: 89.2

24. California State University - Chico - Chico, CA

RN to BSN

Website

The RN to BSN program from California State University - Chico is designed for the working nurse. Courses are scheduled according to the students' work schedules. The online format affords flexibility and convenience so that students can keep up with their other obligations. CSU Chico offers start dates in the winter, fall, and summer. The RN to BSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing and the California Board of Registered Nursing. CSU Chico is ranked No. 9 for U.S. News & World Report's list of Top Public Schools. It's also ranked No. 62 for Best Colleges for your Money by Money, and No. 89 in America's Best Value Colleges by Forbes. The RN to BSN program uses innovative state-of-the-art technology to increase the levels of education and prepare students to adapt to technological changes in the workplace. Graduates are encouraged to pursue lifelong learning and to practice leadership and critical thinking skills.

Net Price: $14,185

Score: 89.4

23. University of Memphis - Memphis, TN

RN to BSN

Website

Students at the University of Memphis can earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing in as little as 12 months. The program includes seven-week courses such as Health Assessment, Clinical Pathophysiology, and Evidence-Based Nursing. The program is accredited through the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, the Tennessee Board of Nursing, and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The RN to BSN program is designed for the learner, and students receive individualized attention throughout their education. To gain more hands-on experiences, students can apply for internship programs and formally mentored residencies. Students can also earn credit for their prior nursing experience. After graduation, students receive help from faculty and alumni in finding opportunities to advance their career. The University of Memphis is recognized as the No. 2 for Top Public Universities in Tennessee by Niche, at No. 58 for Best Online Bachelor's Programs by U.S. News & World Report, and the No. 164 for Top Colleges in the South by Forbes.

Net Price: $13,663

Score: 89.6

22. University of New Mexico - Albuquerque, NM

RN to BSN

Website

The University of Mexico has an online Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program that is flexible and affordable. To earn their BSN, students complete 30 credit-hours of nursing through seven-week courses. There are six start dates throughout the year, offering more flexibility than many other schools and allowing students to begin their studies at a convenient time. At UNM students are taught to become leaders and team players. They focus on collaboration with interdisciplinary teams and practice the principles of good leadership and management. Students also learn communication and critical thinking as it applies to all areas of nursing. They learn to work with technological advances and to seek lifelong learning. UNM is ranked as No. 100 for Top Public Schools by U.S. News & World Report and No. 109 for Top Colleges in the West by Forbes.

Net Price: $11,283

Score: 89.8

21. Allen College - Waterloo, IA

RN to BSN

Website

Allen College has designed a program that is affordable and manageable. The online courses can be integrated into a student's work and life schedule. Students are eligible for scholarships and tuition help to complete their degree and improve their career options. Classes are taught online, and clinical requirements can be completed in the student's area of residence. Students can complete the program as full-time or part-time. The program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Students learn practical knowledge of nursing. Classes help them integrate evidence-based practice in nursing care. They practice strong communication and leadership skills, and they work on using data to both monitor patient outcomes and improve healthcare for individuals, organizations, and entire communities. Some courses offered at Allen College include Quality and Patient Safety, Care Coordination Across the Lifespan, and Evidence-Based Practice and Nursing Research.

Net Price: N/A

Score: 90.2

20. Western Governors University - Salt Lake City, UT

RN to BSN

Website

The RN to BSN program at Western Governors University was designed with input from experts in the industry. Students learn to integrate technology and healthcare, master evidence-based practice, and understand the policies and systems of today's healthcare. Most students can earn their degree within 24 months, but the flexible online program allows students to speed up the program or take fewer classes to balance their obligations better. Throughout their time at Western Governors University, students work with a program mentor, a faculty member assigned to work with the student on an individual basis. This one-on-one support is one of the reasons U.S. News & World Report named WGU as the No. 10 in Most Innovative Schools. With a BSN from WGU, graduates have improved resumes and greater career advancement opportunities. They are prepared to improve the healthcare system and apply research toward improving the community where they work.

Net Price: N/A

Score: 90.5

19. University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center - Oklahoma City, OK

RN to BSN

Website

The University of Oklahoma's RN to BSN program is developed for working professionals. There are several options for completion. Students can begin in the fall or spring and can complete a nine-month full-time track, a two-year part-time track, or a three-semester track which includes both full and part-time terms. Most courses are offered online, supplemented by Saturday courses. Students must complete one on-campus day of orientation. The online courses help students learn the use of technology in healthcare and research. Although the program is online, students still meet with faculty members on an individual basis and received personalized assistance. Along with courses, students complete a community practicum and a leadership practicum. U.S. News & World Report ranks OU's Health Science Center at No. 19 for Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs. U.S. News & World Report also considered the UO to be the No. 8 Best Online Bachelor's Programs. Forbes ranks the University at No. 39 for Top Colleges in the South.

Net Price: N/A

Score: 90.5

18. Indiana State University - Terre Haute, IN

RN to BSN

Website

Taking the step from Registered Nurse to a Bachelor's of Science Degree in Nursing can open several doors for a student's career. Indiana State University prepares its graduates as generalists while giving them the tools and skills they need to become communicators, educators, advocates, and leaders. The program requires 35 credit hours in the nursing major, but students can earn up to 10 credit-hours through professional portfolio evaluation. Forbes named Indiana State University among the top 200 Top Colleges in the Midwest. The RN to BSN program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc. It's approved by the Indiana State Board of Nursing. Graduates from this program can provide both direct and indirect healthcare through nursing. Students of ISU create and apply healthcare plans to create a greater impact on the community around them.

Net Price: $11,443

Score: 90.9

17. University of Delaware - Newark, DE

RN to BSN

Website

The online Registered Nurse to Bachelor's of Science Degree in Nursing from the University of Delaware uses technology to enhance the education it offers. Students learn through video lectures, online discussion groups, and real-time discussions. They learn to communicate professionally, employ evidence-based practice, and master leadership skills. The program is offered with four start dates, in the fall, winter, spring, and summer. Currently licensed RNs complete 30 additional credits. Students can work with an advisor to plan their personalized curriculum and move toward their professional goals. Graduates are set up to continue toward graduate education or to move ahead in their current career. UD is considered the No. 1 Best Value College in Delaware by Niche, and Money ranks the University at No. 68 for Best Colleges for your Money. Forbes considers it No. 42 for Top Public Colleges and U.S. News & World Report ranks UD at No. 89 for National Universities.

Net Price: $16,286

Score: 91.0

16. Michigan State University - East Lansing, MI

Online RN to BSN Program

Website

The RN to BSN program at Michigan State University can be completed in five semesters as a part-time student. The program is offered in an online, web-based format that is flexible to meet the needs of working students. It is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Students gain critical knowledge in science and humanities. They also gain hands-on experience through clinical practice in community health and leadership. Students learn to create change in healthcare to improve the lives of individuals and communities. MSU is ranked No. 43 for Best Undergraduate Teaching by U.S. News & World Report and No. 41 for Best Colleges for your Money by Money. It's also named among the top 150 Top Colleges by Forbes. A BSN from MSU will prepare graduates to move into wider career options with more job flexibility and security.

Net Price: $16,684

Score: 91.8

15. Florida Atlantic University - Boca Raton, FL

RN to BSN

Website

The Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program from Florida Atlantic University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and endorsed by the American Holistic Nurses Association. The curriculum is designed according to national nursing standards and incorporates evidence-based practice. Students learn to collaborate as members of a diverse team and to practice leadership skills. The program is flexible and can be completed fully online or as a partially-online hybrid program. Either way, students get to choose the best time to dedicate to their studies, and they can complete their degree without giving up other obligations. Florida Atlantic University is the No. 83 in Most Diverse Colleges in America according to Niche and No. 23 for Best Online Graduate Programs in Nursing according to U.S. News & World Report. Courses in the RN to BSN program include General Pathophysiology, Populations Health: Nursing Situations, and Creating Healing Environments.

Net Price: $10,100

Score: 92.0

14. Ohio State University- Columbus, OH

RN to BSN

Website

At Ohio State University, students learn to keep up with the pace of change. The Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is offered 100% online for greater flexibility for working nurses. The program can be completed full-time or part-time, and students can begin in the fall or spring. Top Nursing named OSU as No. 2 Top Nursing Schools in Ohio, and U.S. News & World Report ranks the University at No. 18 in Most Innovative Schools. The faculty and staff at OSU are concerned with the wellness of each student. Graduates are then prepared to promote wellness among various communities, groups, and organizations. Students don't pay for textbooks for nursing classes. Money named OSU the No. 120 Best Colleges for your Money. Graduates are prepared to work in a wide range of settings and are equipped to impact the field of healthcare positively.

Net Price: $18,042

Score: 92.1

13. University of Louisiana at Lafayette - Lafayette, LA

RN to BSN

Website

Flexibility is important, especially for working nurses trying to advance their careers through a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The University of Louisiana at Lafayette helps nurses move from RN to BSN in as little as 12 months. The RN to BSN program is entirely online and has several start dates, in spring, summer, and fall. Most courses last eight weeks and cover topics such as creating change in healthcare, leadership skills, clinical reasoning, and nursing in various settings. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. To make the program more affordable, UL Lafayette offers pay-as-you-go options. UL Lafayette is ranked No. 65 for Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs by U.S. News & World Report and No. 121 for Top Colleges in the South by Forbes.

Net Price: $12,502

Score: 92.9

12. University of Iowa - Iowa City, IA

RN-BSN

Website

Experience is a vital step in any education. At the University of Iowa, the Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program includes the hands-on experience to prepare students for a future in nursing. Students complete a community and public health practicum over the course of a 16-week semester. They also have the option to complete the practicum in Swaziland, Africa. A leadership course practice can be achieved through the student's place of work. At UI, students learn vital skills and knowledge in leadership, communication, and teamwork. They also gain a foundation in the science and theory behind nursing. Graduates are prepared to apply their skills and knowledge to a diverse set of communities for the improvement of healthcare. UI is ranked as the No. 1 Top Public University in Iowa by Niche, as well as the No. 44 for Top Public Colleges on Forbes. Princeton Review also recognized UI as the No. 18 for Best Career Services.

Net Price: $14,845

Score: 93.0

11. University of Southern Mississippi - Hattiesburg, MS

Nursing RN to BSN Degree

Website

Working Registered Nursing professionals can come to the University of Southern Mississippi to advance their career through a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Available fully online, the program is designed for flexibility. It can be completed in as few as three semesters, and students can begin courses in the fall, spring, or summer. Courses can be taken in 8, 10, or 16 weeks. Along with coursework, students must complete two clinical experiences. These can be done through the student's current healthcare agency or community health services. USM is ranked No. 59 for Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs by U.S. News & World Report. It's also ranked among the top 100 Top Public Universities in America by Niche. Graduates from the program are prepared to advance their career through more options, higher job security, and more opportunity to move up the career ladder.

Net Price: $12,506

Score: 93.0

10. George Mason University - Fairfax, VA

RN to BSN

Website

George Mason University is ranked at the No. 32 spot for Top Colleges in the Region by Forbes. Money lists it among the top 100 Best Colleges for your Money. Niche ranks the University at No. 56 Most Diverse Colleges in America. For students, this means they can enroll in a school that is nationally recognized for its innovation and entrepreneurship. The curriculum is rigorous and rewarding. Through an online degree, students can earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing in as few as two semesters. Courses are offered in seven-week sessions, and students can choose to enroll full-time or part-time. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Project-based courses cover topics such as research, leadership, health assessment, and more.

Net Price: $18,629

Score: 93.0

9. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center - Lubbock, TX

Bachelor's of Science in Nursing - RN to BSN

Website

At Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, students are part of the program. The school is involved in the lives of the students through support systems such as tutoring, financial aid, resources, and academic advisors. The students have access to state-of-the-art labs and other on-campus resources. Students are encouraged to participate in the communities around them and to embrace diversity and interdisciplinary collaboration. The program can be completed in two or three semesters, and it requires 30 credit-hours. Students can study on a full-time or part-time basis. U.S. News & World Report has recognized the medical school at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. Texas Tech is ranked at No. 90 in Research and No. 71 in Primary Care.

Net Price: N/A

Score: 93.4

8. University of Wisconsin - Madison - Madison, WI

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Website

The University of Wisconsin - Madison is highly ranked in several categories. Forbes ranks UW Madison at No. 17 for Top Public Colleges, U.S. News & World Report ranks it at No. 49 for National Universities. It made the top 50 of Money's list of Best Colleges for your Money. This affordable RN to BSN program is also conveniently designed for working adults. The program is taught primarily online and can be completed in a year and a half. A required clinical can be arranged close to the student's area of living. Graduates are prepared to feel positions of leadership, teaching, and management. Throughout the program, there are opportunities for students to collaborate in clinical research and education. After graduation, students join a wide network of alumni. In fact, Princeton Review named UW Madison the No. 19 for Best Alumni Network.

Net Price: $15,910

Score: 93.6

7. East Carolina University - Greenville, NC

RN to BSN

Website

East Carolina University is student-focused. The 15:1 student-faculty ratio means that every student can interact with faculty on a one-on-one basis. They receive personalized support from outstanding faculty and academic advisors. At ECU, students focus on just two courses at a time, making it easier for them to balance a career with their education. Even at this slower pace, the degree can be completed in four semesters. ECU's RN to BSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. ECU offers its students state-of-the-art simulation labs, a student development and counseling center, a student services center, smart classrooms, and an expert technical team. In addition, students can participate in research with faculty to advance the science of nursing and address important health issues, both locally and globally. U.S. News & World Report named ECU as No. 106 for Top Public Schools, and Forbes listed it No. 103 for Top Colleges in the Region.

Net Price: $13,327

Score: 94.0

6. University of South Florida - Tampa, FL

RN to BSN

Website

At degree from the University of South Florida can help students move from a Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The rigorous program is designed to meet the needs of each student's career. Students can choose to focus on leadership and management, patient and staff education, or clinical excellence. The program can be completed in five part-time semesters or three full-time semesters, depending on the student's preference. As part of the program, students participate in hands-on experiential learning hours. A core course focuses on experiential learning so that students can apply the knowledge and skills they learn in class. There are start dates in the fall, spring, and summer. U.S. News & World Report ranks USF as No. 71 for Best Value Schools, Forbes ranks it at No. 51 for Top Colleges in the Region, and Niche ranks it at No. 74 for Best Colleges for Nursing in America.

Net Price: $11,766

Score: 94.3

5. University of Central Florida - Orlando, FL

RN to BSN

Website

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Central Florida is offered entirely online, with no face to face requirements. Students can enroll simultaneously in associate and baccalaureate nursing programs. There are 30 credit-hours in nursing required to complete the BSN. Most students can complete their degree in as few as three semesters. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the Florida State Board of Nursing. There is a strong emphasis on science throughout the innovative program. Students learn to solve problems and think critically. The courses were designed by award-winning and experienced faculty. U.S. News & World Report named UCF the No. 34 for Best Undergraduate Teaching. Niche ranks UCF at No. 142 for Best Colleges for Nursing in America, while Forbes ranks UCF at No. 53 for Top Colleges in the South.

Net Price: $15,341

Score: 94.6

4. The University of Texas at Arlington - Arlington, TX

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Website

The University of Texas at Arlington has a history of innovation in nursing education. The RN to BSN program can be completed in as few as 15 months for a total of 51 credit hours. Courses vary from five to 14 weeks. UTA is ranked No. 9 for Best Online Colleges in America by Niche. Courses use innovative technology to improve students' learning environment. UTA is also an affordable school, ranked within the top 200 America's Best Value Colleges by Forbes. Students can pay-by-the-course for greater accessibility. Throughout the program, students receive mentorship and networking opportunities through a variety of student organizations. After graduation, they join an alumni base of over 200,000.

Net Price: $12,533

Score: 95.8

3. California State University - Stanislaus - Turlock, CA

RN to BSN

Website

The Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program from California State University - Stanislaus is designed for working professionals. The materials students learn in class is immediately applicable to their current positions. Students learn to become creative problem solvers and to rely on their critical thinking skills. They learn to communicate well and to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, with their organizations, and with the communities they serve. After students complete a mandatory orientation, they can complete their coursework online at their own pace. Courses are delivered in 10-week sessions and include lectures, readings, assignments, and discussion with classmates and instructors. Stanislaus State is ranked No. 10 in U.S. News & World Report's Top Public Schools and No. 49 in Money's Best Colleges for your Money.

Net Price: $6,768

Score: 96.0

2. Appalachian State University - Boone, NC

RN to BSN

Website

Appalachian State University offers online, classroom-based, and hybrid programs. The Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree can be completed entirely online. Students learn the skills necessary to become leaders in their field. Projects are combined with non-traditional clinicals, so students learn aspects of research through hands-on work. The program is convenient, affordable, and practical. It is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Classes cover topics such as theory, informatics, research, care of older adults, community-based nursing, and more. Classes are taught by experienced faculty. In fact, U.S. News & World Report ranks App State the No. 2 for Best Undergraduate Teaching. App State was also listed for the top 100 Top Colleges in the South by Forbes.

Net Price: $10,473

Score: 99.0

1. Texas A&M University - College Station - College Station, TX

RN to BSN

Website

Texas A&M University - College Station incorporates cutting-edge technology into their online RN to BSN program. With practical clinical activities and simulated experience, students in the nursing program get plenty of hands-on practice. They also gain real-world experience through training in hospitals and clinical settings. Along with nursing knowledge, students learn to work in multidisciplinary teams. The faculty members of the program have real-world experience in research, community service, leadership, and nursing practice. With a low student-to-faculty ratio, students get to interact directly with faculty for more personalized education. Texas A&M was named the No. 2 for Top Nursing Schools in Texas by Top Nursing, and U.S. News & World Report called it No. 66 for National Universities. Nursing courses are built on a foundation of liberal arts and sciences. Texas A&M is recognized as a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education by the National League for Nursing.

Net Price: $19,554

Score: 100.0