Best Accelerated Nursing & BSN Programs Online
Accelerated nursing and BSN programs are designed for registered nurses already working in the healthcare field but want to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. It provides an alternative route to earning a BSN for registered nurses with an associate degree in nursing (ADN).
Find Your Program in 5 Minutes or Less
Many schools have rolling admissions, which means you can start a program in a few weeks!
Key Takeaways
- Fast-track RN to BSN programs are designed to enable registered nurses to earn their bachelor's degrees more quickly, typically in about 9-12 months, through flexible online coursework.
- These programs offer benefits such as career advancement opportunities, improved earning potential, and the development of leadership and critical thinking skills.
- Considerations when choosing a fast-track RN to BSN program include program length, cost, coursework, clinical requirements, admission criteria, study habits, career goals, and financial aid options.
Flexible scheduling options are available so that students can complete school while continuing other priorities in their lives. An accelerated nursing program caters to busy individuals seeking a nursing career who cannot commit to full-time schooling. The course is accelerated because it takes just over two years to complete.
It brings together classroom learning and clinical hours into a condensed timeframe. Students participate in clinical rotations at hospitals or other healthcare facilities where they work or at nearby affiliated sites. With the demand for nursing professionals growing as Americans' average age rises, joining an accelerated nursing program will boost the career quickly.
Online Rn-to-BSN Programs That Might Interest You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.Jump To
Why an Accelerated Nursing Program?
In a recent report by Minority Nurse nurses with a bachelor's degree reported earning an average of $10,000 more per year than those with a diploma or associate's degree in nursing (ADN).
The same report showed that many facilities are requiring their staff nurses to hold a minimum bachelor's in nursing (BSN). These institutions pay higher wages to attract and retain nurses with a BSN.
Accelerated Nursing Programs
Most accelerated nursing programs require 16-24 months of coursework and clinical hours but some may be completed sooner.
Most colleges offer on-campus, online, and hybrid classes. Institutions generally discourage or prohibit students from working during their 16-24 month programs.
The most affordable online accelerated nursing program is offered by the University of South Florida at $3,152.10. The University of Wyoming offers the second cheapest accelerated online RN to BSN with a program cost of $5,370.
Online accelerated BSN degrees offer flexible scheduling and a better way to learn for some students. Online nursing programs usually use a hybrid model--theory in class, clinical experience and lab work in person. Students typically complete their clinical rotations in their community.
Fast-Track RN to BSN Online Programs for 2024
- University of Texas Arlington – Arlington, TX
- Duration: 9 months
- Tuition: $8,995
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Appalachian State University – Boone, NC
- Duration: 12 months
- Tuition: In-state $163 per credit,Out−of−state $663 per credit
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cleveland State University – Cleveland, OH
- Duration: 12 months
- Tuition: $16,462 per year
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Ohio State University – Columbus, OH
- Duration: 12 months
- Tuition: $16,200
- Program URL: Visit Program
- American Sentinel University – Denver, CO
- Duration: 8 months
- Tuition: Varies
- Program URL: Visit Program
- University of Wyoming – Laramie, WY
- Duration: 12 months
- Tuition: $8,433 per semester
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Capella University – Minneapolis, MN
- Duration: 9 months
- Tuition: Varies
- Program URL: Visit Program
- University of North Carolina Wilmington – Wilmington, NC
- Duration: 12 months
- Tuition: In-state $185 per credit, Out−of−state $771 per credit
- Program URL: Visit Program
- University of Arkansas – Fayetteville, AK
- Duration: 12 months
- Tuition: $8,206
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Baptist Memorial College of Health Sciences – Memphis, TN
- Duration: 12 months
- Tuition: $16,980
- Program URL: Visit Program
Further Reading: Cheapest Online Colleges
Cheapest Acclerated Online RN to BSN Programs 2024
University of Central Florida
- Program Cost: $5,375.70 ($179.19 per credit hour)
- Program Length: 30 credit hours or one year full-time
University of Wyoming
- Program Cost: $5,370 ($154.00 per credit hour)
- Program Length: 30 credit hours
University of South Florida
- Program Cost: $3,152.10 ($105.07 per credit hour)
- Program Length: 30 credit hours
Appalachian State University
- Program Cost: $6,720 ($224.00 per credit hour)
- Program Length: 30 credit hours
University of Texas Arlington
- Program Cost: $8,995 ($257.00 per credit hour)
- Program Length: 35 credit hours
LaSalle University
- Program Cost: $10,800 ($400 per credit hour)
- Program Length: 27 credit hours
Thomas Edison State University
- Program Cost: $14,850 ($550 per credit hour)
- Program Length: 27 credit hours
Florida International University
- Program Cost: $5,491.44 ($228.81 per credit hour)
- Program Length: 24 credit hours
Messiah University
- Program Cost: $12,300 ($410 per credit hour)
- Program Length: 30 credit hours
Florida Gateway College
- Program Cost: $5,125
- Program Length: 31 credit hours
Guide to Accelerated Online BSN Programs
Nursing professionals seeking career advancement or aiming to enhance their skills often consider enrolling in fast-track RN to BSN online programs. These programs offer the flexibility of online learning while enabling registered nurses to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree quickly. The convenience and efficiency of fast-track RN to BSN programs make them an attractive option for working professionals looking to further their education and career opportunities.
Advantages of Fast-Track RN to BSN Online Programs
Fast-track RN to BSN online programs offer several benefits, including:
- Resume enhancement and expanded career opportunities
- Increased earning potential
- Development of leadership and critical thinking skills
- Rapid progression towards a BSN degree
- Flexible online format for working professionals
- Preparation for advanced nursing roles
Selecting the Right Program
When choosing a fast-track RN to BSN online program, consider the following factors:
- Program length and cost
- Coursework and clinical training requirements
- Admission criteria, including licensure and residency requirements
- Time management and study habits
- Career goals and opportunities post-graduation
Financial Considerations
Financial aid options for fast-track RN to BSN programs may include:
- Hospital tuition benefits for nursing staff
- Federal student aid through FAFSA
- Scholarships and grants for nursing students
- Private student loans for education expenses
Career Opportunities for RN to BSN Graduates
Graduates of fast-track RN to BSN programs can pursue a variety of career paths, including:
- Leadership positions in nursing management
- Specialized roles in research and academia
- Opportunities in Magnet recognized facilities
- Enhanced patient care and improved patient outcomes
Top 13 Fast-Track RN to BSN Online Programs for 2024
- University of Texas Arlington
- Appalachian State University
- Cleveland State University
- Ohio State University
- American Sentinel University
- University of Wyoming
- Capella University
- University of North Carolina Wilmington
- University of Arkansas
- Baptist Memorial College of Health Sciences
- Georgia Southern University
- The University of Louisiana At Lafayette
- University of Cincinnati
Expert Insights and FAQs
Experts highlight challenges such as time management and accountability for fast-track RN to BSN students and offer advice on overcoming them. They address common questions about program costs, credit requirements, peer interaction, and balancing work with part-time study.
In conclusion, pursuing a fast-track RN to BSN online program can lead to numerous benefits for nursing professionals seeking career advancement. By carefully considering program options, financial aid opportunities, and career pathways, individuals can make informed decisions to achieve their educational and professional goals efficiently.
Program Insights and Analysis
Fast-track RN to BSN programs offer a unique opportunity for registered nurses to earn their bachelor's degree in nursing in a shorter period compared to traditional programs. These accelerated programs are becoming popular among working professionals who seek career advancement and higher earning potential.
Benefits of Fast-Track RN to BSN Programs:
- Time Efficiency: Accelerated programs enable nurses to complete their BSN quickly, usually within 9-12 months, saving time and getting them into the workforce faster.
- Career Advancement: A BSN degree opens up doors to higher-paying and leadership positions in nursing, along with increased job opportunities.
- Flexibility: Online delivery of these programs allows nurses to balance their studies with work and personal commitments.
- Enhanced Skills: The curriculum in fast-track RN to BSN programs focuses on crucial skills like leadership, critical thinking, and evidence-based practice, enhancing nurses' overall competencies.
Considerations When Choosing a Fast-Track RN to BSN Program:
- Program Length: Understanding the duration of the program and ensuring it aligns with your career goals and commitments.
- Cost: Comparing tuition fees and exploring financial aid options to make informed decisions about affordability.
- Curriculum: Reviewing the course offerings and ensuring they align with your career aspirations and learning objectives.
- Clinical Training: Confirming the clinical requirements and assessing how they fit within your schedule and location.
- Admission Requirements: Meeting all prerequisites, such as holding an active RN license and meeting GPA criteria.
- Study Habits: Considering your learning style and ensuring that the program's format matches your preferences for success.
- Career Goals: Identifying how the program will help you achieve your desired nursing career path and advancement opportunities.
Career Outlook for Fast-Track RN to BSN Graduates:
- Professional Advancement: BSN-prepared nurses are sought after for leadership roles, research positions, and specialty practice areas within healthcare settings.
- Increased Earning Potential: Graduates with a BSN generally earn higher salaries and have better career prospects compared to those with an ADN.
- Job Market Demand: The need for BSN-prepared nurses is rising, with opportunities in diverse healthcare settings and specialties, providing a strong job outlook for graduates.
Overall, fast-track RN to BSN programs offer a strategic pathway for registered nurses to advance their careers, enhance their skills, and tap into new opportunities within the nursing profession. Through careful consideration of program factors and career goals, nurses can make informed decisions to embark on a successful academic and professional journey.
RN Statistics
Demographics and Education
Age and Retirement
- The median age of registered nurses (RNs) has seen a slight decrease from 52 years in 2020 to 46 years in 2022. Notably, over one-quarter of RNs are considering leaving nursing or retiring within the next five years, highlighting a potential future workforce challenge.
Gender and Ethnic Diversity
- The percentage of men in nursing has increased to 11.2% by 2022, up from 9.4% in 2020. The racial and ethnic composition of the RN population in 2022 was predominantly White/Caucasian (80%), with 7.4% Asian, 6.3% Black/African American, and 6.9% reporting Hispanic ethnicity.
Educational Preparation
- A significant majority of RNs, 71.7%, have attained a baccalaureate degree or higher as their highest level of nursing education by 2022. This is in line with employers' preferences for baccalaureate-prepared nurses, with 28% requiring and 72% strongly preferring such educational preparation. Advanced degrees are also in demand, with 17.4% of RNs holding a master's degree and 2.7% a doctoral degree, underscoring the critical need for advanced practice, clinical specialization, teaching, and research roles.
Employment and Salary
Workforce Size and Employment Settings
- Nursing is the nation's largest healthcare profession, with nearly 5.2 million RNs nationwide, 89% of whom are employed in the field. RNs are primarily found in general medical and surgical hospitals, representing nearly 55% of the workforce in these settings.
Salary
- RNs are among the highest-paying large occupations, with an average salary of $77,600 per year. This reflects the critical role and the high demand for nursing professionals across various healthcare settings.
Projected Growth and Demand
- The federal government projects over 203,000 new RN positions will be created annually from 2021-2031, indicating a strong and growing demand for nursing professionals. This is driven by an increased emphasis on preventive care, the rising prevalence of chronic conditions, and the needs of an aging population. Moreover, most healthcare services involve nursing care, underscoring the high demand for nurses in diverse healthcare settings.
Nursing Education and Workforce Trends
Advanced Degrees and Workforce Departures
- The nursing workforce is experiencing significant changes, with over 200,000 experienced RNs leaving the workforce and an increase in the proportion of nurses with advanced degrees. These trends point to the evolving nature of nursing roles and the increasing complexity of care that requires higher levels of education and specialization.
Workload and Workforce Challenges
- Over 60% of RNs reported an increase in workload due to the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the significant pressures faced by the nursing workforce during this period. This underscores the need for adequate support and resources for nurses to manage the increasing demands of their roles effectively.
List of Accelerated Nursing Programs
Alphabetical list of accelerated nursing programs ranked in the 2022 edition of Best Accelerated Nursing and BSN Programs Online and On-campus.
| California State University—Stanislaus |
| Florida International University |
| University of Washington |
| Duke University |
| Stony Brook University |
| University of Miami |
| Truman State University |
| George Mason University |
| University of North Florida |
| University of Delaware |
| University of Houston |
| Michigan State University |
| Villanova University |
| Florida Atlantic University |
| Clemson University |
| California State University—Channel Islands |
| Binghamton University |
| West Virginia University |
| CUNY Hunter College |
| Montana Tech |
| Texas Christian University |
| George Washington University |
| University of Massachusetts—Amherst |
| New York University |
| Drexel University |
| University of Wyoming |
| East Carolina University |
| Wayne State University |
| University of Utah |
| University of West Florida |
| Barry University |
| University of Cincinnati |
| Western Kentucky University |
| Grand Valley State University |
| Samford University |
| Georgia College & State University |
| Westfield State University |
| University of Louisiana—Lafayette |
| Los Angeles Harbor College |
| Augustana University |
| Western Illinois University |
| Mount Carmel College of Nursing |
| Rhode Island College |
| Duquesne University |
| Adelphi University |
| Georgia Southern University |
| Concordia University Irvine |
| New Mexico State University |
| University of North Georgia |
| Ball State University |
| Northeast Alabama Community College |
| University of Tennessee—Chattanooga |
| Gwynedd Mercy University |
| Northern Illinois University |
| University of New England |
| Indiana University—Purdue University Indianapolis |
| South Dakota State University |
| University of North Alabama |
| Florida National University |
| University of Massachusetts—Boston |
| Mississippi College |
| Saint Xavier University |
| Arkansas State University |
| Cleveland State University |
| Lewis & Clark College |
| Curry College |
| Georgia Southwestern State University |
| University of Memphis |
| Del Mar College |
| Regis College |
| Augusta University |
| Coppin State University |
| University of Arkansas—Fort Smith |
| SUNY College of Technology at Alfred |
| Angelo State University |
| Merritt College |
| Utica College |
| Marian University |
| Bowie State University |
| Valdosta State University |
| Fortis College |
If any of the information is incorrect for your school or you feel that your school should have received a ranking, please reach out to tstevens [at] edsmart.org.
Sources
