You can begin working as an RN with just an associate’s degree in the nursing field, which is what many nurses choose to do, since it is a quick way to get into nursing. However, if you get your Bachelor of Science in nursing, or BSN, you will typically be offered more advanced jobs that come attached to higher salaries and better benefits. You can get you BSN through a traditional program, but it is much easier to participate in an RN to BSN program.

An RN to BSN program takes into account that you already have an associate’s degree in the field, so you don’t have to repeat classes. Instead, this kind of program just adds on to what you already know. You’ll learn advanced nursing skills, and although you’ll still be an RN, you’ll be eligible for jobs that require a higher level of responsibility. Many times, the RNs chosen to become head nurses or fulfill other leadership positions are those who have gone back to school so get a BSN.

Getting your BSN might be less expensive than you think. Many hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, and other health-related employers often offer tuition assistance programs, where they’ll pay you to go back to school to get an advanced degree in exchange for continuing to work for them. As a nursing student, you’ll also be eligible for a number of grants and scholarships, many of which are offered by the government to help alleviate the national nursing shortage.

An RN to BSN program typically takes about two years to complete, though it depends on the specific program you attend and whether you go to school full time or part time. Online programs are especially flexible for nurses who want to continue working as RNs while they get their BSN, as these colleges have courses that can be completed around your work schedule.

RN to BSN Online Degree Programs

• American Sentinel University — RN to BSN
• Arizona State University — RN to BSN
• Capella University — RN to BSN
• Chamberlain College of Nursing — RN to BSN
• Colorado Technical University — RN to BSN
• Drexel University — RN to BSN
• Florida Hospital College of Health Sciences — RN to BSN
• Graceland University — RN to BSN
• Grand Canyon University — RN to BSN
• Herzing University — RN to BSN
• Indiana State University — RN to BSN
• Kaplan University — RN to BSN
• Keiser University — RN to BSN
• Kent State University — RN to BSN
• Liberty University — RN to BSN
• Miller-Motte College — RN to BSN
• National American University — RN to BSN
• Oklahoma Wesleyan University — RN to BSN
• Sacred Heart University — RN to BSN
• Salem University — RN to BSN
• South University — RN to BSN
• University of Illinois at Chicago — RN to BSN
• University of Phoenix — RN to BSN
• Walden University — RN to BSN
• Western Governors University — RN to BSN

Top LPN to BSN Programs Online

Many nurses begin their careers as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) or Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) but soon yearn for a higher education to advance their careers. Fortunately, this is where online LPN to BSN degree programs come in handy. Below are the top fully accredited online colleges that offer such programs.

LPN to BSN Programs

LPN to BSN

Indiana State University — Indiana State offers the only online LPN to BSN degree program whose curriculum is designed specifically for LPNs looking for RN training. The coursework is completed mostly online, with only the required clinical hours needing completion at a local facility. This program is highly rated because of its affordability and flexibility. Read in-depth review of Indiana State University.

LPN to BSN

The College Network — Start working toward your LPN to BSN degree from one of the various universities that form the College Network. You can earn an NLNAC-accredited degree completely online with no campus attendance required. And best of all, you should be able to earn your degree at a more convenient pace and cheaper price.

Other Online Nursing Degree Programs

RN to BSN RN to MSN MSN - Nurse Administrator MSN - Nurse Educator	Kaplan University — Kaplan University's College of Nursing is designed to educate the next generation of healthcare professionals via an advanced online environment. The university features a bachelor's degree and master's degree, which includes the specializations of nurse administrator and nurse educator. Courses are taught by experienced professionals that bring their real-world skills into the classroom.
RN to BSN MS in Nursing PhD in Nursing More Nursing Degrees	University of Phoenix — The University of Phoenix College of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and offers students a wide variety of bachelors, masters, and doctorate nursing programs. These degree programs both enhance the knowledge of registered nurses and provide advanced training opportunities.
BS in Nursing RN to MSN MSN - Nurse Education MSN - Nurse Informatics MSN - Nurse Management	Walden University — Walden's University online nursing programs offers degrees at the bachelor's and master's degree levels. Students are able to obtain their bachelors in as little as 18 months. A certificate in Education, Informatics, or Leadership & Management is also available. Programs are dedicated to empowering students to become agents of change in the healthcare field.
RN to BSN MSN - Nurse Education MSN - Nurse Management	Herzing University — At the Herzing University School of Nursing, students receive an education focused on clinical experience at the bachelor's and master's level. The curriculum across these programs focus on academic, theoretical and clinical instruction in medical, surgical, obstetric, pediatric, geriatric and mental health nursing.
RN to BSN	Liberty University — Liberty's general online BSN program teaches students to utilize problem-solving skills to determine proper nursing techniques in the real world. Students are fostered to develop strong leadership skills for the purpose of promoting health within the workplace.
RN to BSN	South University — RNs seeking more job opportunities and professional responsibilities need look no further than South University's potentially career-changing RN to BSN program of study. Those who complete this program will be well prepared to serve in management and supervisory positions within the field of nursing.
RN to BSN	Grand Canyon University — At Grand Canyon University, an online BSN degree program is offered to individuals who are already licensed as RNs. Courses are taught by nursing education experts, and graduates of this program typically go on to become leaders in the nursing industry.
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