Best CNA to RN Degree Online Bridge Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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For Certified Nursing Assistants or CNAs aspiring to elevate their nursing careers, online CNA to RN degree bridge programs offer a flexible, efficient, and relatively affordable pathway to achieving a Registered Nurse or RN license. These programs are well-suited for nursing assistants and aides who want to leverage the skills and experience they have gained on the job and translate them into credits toward becoming an RN.

Bridge programs provide CNAs with a clear path to advance their nursing careers. CNA to RN bridge programs, specifically, provide eligible CNAs a way to become an RN that is lower in overall costs and, in many cases, faster than traditional nursing programs.

In this article, I’ll provide you with information about CNA to RN bridge programs, including the top institutions offering this program, as well as its costs, timeframes, career prospects, and more.

What are the benefits of getting an online CNA to RN bridge program degree?

• An RN license can lead to a wide variety of job opportunities across healthcare settings and specialties, as well as non-clinical roles such as education, hospital management, legal nursing consultant, among many others.
• Advancing from a CNA to an RN can boost your annual income by over $50,000, with median wages for registered nurses rising from $86,070 in May 2023 to $93,600 as of May 2024. (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2024)
• An online CNA to RN bridge program provides great flexibility, making it easier to continue working as a CNA while completing your coursework, gaining both experience and income, alongside an RN credential.

What can I expect from an online CNA to RN bridge program?

The CNA to RN curriculum focuses on nursing theory, health assessment, pharmacology, and other relevant courses often found in a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree program. These courses may include, but are not limited to, the following.

• Anatomy and physiology
• Medical terminology and pharmacology
• Clinical practice
• Patient assessment and management
• Community health
• Leadership and management
• National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) preparation

Being a Certified Nursing Assistant is a prerequisite of CNA to RN bridge programs. Candidates are expected to possess some level of prior nursing experience, knowledge, and skills, allowing them to bypass introductory and general education courses. This, combined with the credits from previous coursework and clinic hours, results in lower overall credits required to complete the program.

Where can I work with an online CNA to RN bridge program?

CNAs play a vital role in healthcare by supporting RNs and doctors. They check vital signs, assist patients with daily activities, and keep the care team informed. It’s not uncommon for CNAs to advance into an RN, a position that can lead to greater responsibility, higher pay, and more career options.

Once you complete an RN bridge program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN), you’ll be eligible to work as a registered nurse in a variety of clinical settings, such as:

• Hospitals. RNs in hospitals care for patients with acute or chronic conditions across departments like emergency, ICU, or surgical units.
• Nursing homes. RNs in long-term care facilities oversee patient care plans, manage medications, and supervise CNAs and LPNs.
• Clinics. In outpatient clinics, RNs assist with routine exams, minor procedures, and patient education. The schedule is typically more predictable than hospital work.
• Rehabilitation centers. RNs in rehab centers help patients recover from injuries, surgeries, or substance use disorders. The role focuses on ongoing care, mobility support, and goal-oriented recovery.
• Home healthcare agencies. RNs provide in-home care to patients recovering from illness or surgery or managing chronic conditions.
• Public health departments. RNs working in public health focus on community wellness, vaccinations, and disease prevention.
• Schools. School nurses manage student health needs, administer medications, and respond to emergencies.

Many aspiring nurses choose online bridge programs for their flexibility, especially when balancing work and family responsibilities. Like on-campus options, online programs prepare you to pass the NCLEX-RN and meet all licensure requirements for a registered nursing role.

How much can I make with an online CNA to RN bridge program?

As of January 2025, CNAs in the United States earn an average hourly wage of $20.27, which translates to approximately $42,160 annually (Indeed, 2025). In comparison, RNs have a median annual wage of $93,600 as of May 2024, with the lowest 10% earning less than $66,030 and the highest 10% earning more than $135,320 (U.S. BLS, 2024).

RN salaries can vary further, depending on the healthcare setting. Government RNs earn the highest median salary at $106,480. The BLS reports the following as the 2024 median annual wages for nurses in various environments:

• Hospitals (state, local, and private): $97,260
• Ambulatory healthcare services: $83,780
• Nursing and residential care facilities: $81,820
• Educational services (state, local, and private): $74,360

Table of Contents

1. 2025 List of Online CNA to RN Degree Bridge Programs
2. How long does it take to complete an Online CNA to RN degree program?
3. How does an Online CNA to RN degree program compare to an on-campus program?
4. What is the average cost of an Online CNA to RN degree program?
5. What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an Online CNA to RN degree program?
6. What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an Online CNA to RN degree program?
7. What courses are typically in an Online CNA to RN degree program?
8. What types of specializations are available in Online CNA to RN degree programs?
9. Are Online CNA to RN Programs Accredited and Recognized?
10. What challenges might students encounter during their Online CNA to RN program?
11. Can Advanced Certifications Enhance Your Nursing Career After a CNA to RN Program?
12. Is an Online CNA to RN Bridge Program Worth the Investment?
13. How to choose the best Online CNA to RN degree program?
14. What career paths are available for graduates of Online CNA to RN degree programs?
15. What is the job market for graduates with an Online CNA to RN degree?
16. Everything Else You Need to Know About Online CNA to RN Bridge Programs

2025 List of Online CNA to RN Degree Bridge Programs

How do we rank schools?

Pursuing a nursing degree is a major time and financial commitment. We understand that choosing the right program can shape your career for years to come. Our experts at Research.com have evaluated key factors that matter most to students such as program costs, graduation rates, faculty-to-student ratios, curriculum focus, and overall accessibility. Our methodology is grounded in objective, up-to-date data from trusted U.S. government sources such as the IPEDS database; Petersons database, including their Distance Learning Licensed Data Set; College Scorecard database; National Center for Education Statistics.

1. University of Pittsburgh

The University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing offers an Accelerated Second-Degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program for students with a non-nursing bachelor's degree. This fast-track program allows students to earn a BSN in just one year through intensive, full-time coursework. It’s a strong option for those looking to quickly transition into nursing and prepare for graduate-level study.

• Program Length: Approximately 1 year (3 consecutive terms)
• Tracks/concentrations: Generalist BSN
• Cost per Credit: $1,078
• Required Credits to Graduate: 124
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

2. SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University

SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University offers an RN to BSN program that is fully online. This program requires applicants to have at least 60 transferable credits, including 30 nursing credits from an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN), and mandates the completion of 35 upper-division credits at Downstate, culminating in a total of 125 credits for graduation. While they don’t offer a dedicated CNA to RN bridge program, they provide an intensive ABSN pathway for individuals holding a non-nursing bachelor's degree entailing 60 credits of concentrated nursing courses over 15 months.

• Program Length: 3 semesters, full-time
• Tracks/concentrations: RN to BSN
• Cost per Credit: $295 for NY residents; $353 for non-residents
• Required Credits to Graduate: 125 (including 35 upper-division credits at Downstate)
• Accreditation: CCNE

3. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) RN to BSN program is one of their 22 different nursing program offerings. The program is fully online and flexible, with options to finish in as few as two semesters full-time or up to six part-time. Courses are asynchronous and focus on leadership, evidence-based care, and holistic nursing.

• Program Length: 2 semesters (full-time) to 3-6 semesters (part-time)
• Tracks/concentrations: RN to BSN
• Cost per Credit: $214.07 for TX residents; $624.07 for non-residents
• Required Credits to Graduate: 30
• Accreditation: CCNE

4. University of San Francisco

The University of San Francisco (USF) offers a BSN program available at their Hilltop and Sacramento campuses. While USF does not have a dedicated CNA to RN bridge program, Certified Nursing Assistants can apply as transfer students, provided they meet the prerequisite coursework and GPA requirements. Transfer students typically complete the program in six to eight semesters, depending on prior credits and clinical placement availability.

• Program Length: 6-8 semesters for transfer students
• Tracks/concentrations: Generalist BSN
• Cost per Credit: $2,200 per credit for part-time students (fewer than 12 credits) during fall/spring terms; $1,475 per credit during summer term
• Required Credits to Graduate: 128
• Accreditation: CCNE

5. University of Florida-Online

University of Florida-Online offers a fully online RN to BSN program tailored for working registered nurses holding an associate degree. This program emphasizes leadership, evidence-based practice, and community health, preparing graduates for diverse roles in various healthcare settings. The RN to BSN program can be completed in five semesters of part-time study and awards 30 upper-level credit hours in the final semester based on current RN licensure and completion of a professional portfolio.

• Program Length: Approximately 40 months (5 semesters, part-time)
• Tracks/concentrations: RN to BSN
• Cost per Credit: $129.18 for FL residents; $552.62 for non-residents
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Accreditation: CCNE

6. University of Wisconsin-Madison

The University of Wisconsin–Madison offers two distinct pathways for nursing students: the BSN@Home program for registered nurses, and the Accelerated BSN (ABSN) for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor's degree. BSN@Home is designed for licensed RNs holding an associate degree or diploma in nursing. This fully online program provides flexibility with asynchronous coursework and 7- or 14-week course options. Students can transfer up to 90–96 credits, with a minimum of 30 credits required from UW–Madison to graduate. The university also offers an intensive, CCNE-accredited, 12-month on-campus ABSN program.

• Program Length: 1.5 to 2.5 years
• Tracks/concentrations: RN to BSN
• Cost per Credit: $452
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 (including transferred credits)
• Accreditation: CCNE

7. University of Nebraska Medical Center

The University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) has an ABSN program for non-nursing bachelor's degree-holders. This program is an intensive and full-time program, spanning 12 months, including two 16-week semesters and one 13-week summer session, beginning each January. Students engage in 760 hours of clinical training across UNMC's five campuses in Omaha, Lincoln, Scottsbluff, Kearney, and Norfolk. The program boasts a 97.64% NCLEX-RN pass rate for 2024 graduates.

• Program Length: 12 months
• Tracks/concentrations: ABSN
• Cost per Credit: $424 for NE residents; $1,141 for non-residents
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Accreditation: CCNE

8. Adelphi University

Adelphi University’s BSN program offers a comprehensive curriculum combining classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experiences, as well as preparation for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam. Adelphi also offers an RN to BSN program designed for working RNs aiming to advance their education and career. This program offers online coursework complemented by 35 hours of clinical work.

• Program Length: 4 years (traditional BSN); not specified for RN to BSN
• Tracks/concentrations: RN to BS in Nursing
• Cost per Credit: Approximately $1,395; $565 for RN to BSN
• Required Credits to Graduate: 124; not specified for RN to BSN
• Accreditation: CCNE

9. Herzing University

Herzing University’s Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) is available at multiple campus locations. Designed for flexibility and career readiness, this program blends online general education courses with on-campus core nursing classes to prepare students for RN licensure. The program emphasizes a career-focused curriculum, giving students fundamental knowledge and skills in health assessment, medical-surgical nursing, family nursing, pharmacology, and more. Students can potentially reduce their tuition costs by transferring up to 52–54 approved credits from prior college coursework.

• Program Length: Approximately 20 months
• Tracks/concentrations: Generalist ASN
• Cost per Credit: $925 for the online ASN program
• Required Credits to Graduate: Varies by campus; 72 for Birmingham, AL
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

10. Drexel University

Drexel University’s RN to BSN Completion Program is an online pathway designed for RNs with an ADN or ASN seeking to earn a BSN. The program offers flexibility for working professionals, allowing up to 135 of the required 180 quarter credits to be transferred, including credit for RN licensure courses. Students benefit from a low 1:25 student-to-faculty ratio and have the opportunity to submatriculate into an MSN program during their final term. The NCLEX pass rate for their College of Nursing and Health Professions is 98.73% for Q1 of the 2023 academic year (October - December 2023).

• Program Length: Varies based on transferred credits
• Tracks/concentrations: RN to BSN
• Cost per Credit: $549 (2024–2025 academic year)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 180 quarter credits
• Accreditation: CCNE

How long does it take to complete an Online CNA to RN degree program?

Finishing an online CNA to RN degree bridge program can range from 10 months to five years. The exact timeline depends on whether you're pursuing an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Other factors such as specific program structures, prior education, and whether you enroll full-time or part-time can also affect completion time.

ADN programs usually take about two years of full-time study, while BSN programs may take up to four or five years. Many bridge programs offer credit for prior CNA coursework and experience, which can shorten the time to graduation, and there are online accelerated BSN programs that offer flexibility with part-time enrollment options.

Although most coursework is online, students are still required to complete in-person clinical training. These hands-on hours are essential for licensing, however the specific requirements vary by program and state. Applicants are encouraged to check clinical requirements early, as these can significantly impact their completion timeline.

How does an Online CNA to RN degree program compare to an on-campus program?

Online CNA to RN programs offer greater flexibility, allowing students to balance school with work or personal commitments. This setup lets students learn from virtually anywhere at their own pace, ideal for those with unpredictable schedules. Online programs also tend to eliminate commuting and housing expenses, making them relatively more affordable.

On the other hand, on-campus programs provide a more structured learning environment with in-person interactions. In fact, despite acknowledging that online classes met their expectations, 72% of undergraduate nursing students reported they prefer traditional in-person classes over online learning (Baby et. al., 2023). Additionally, these programs often offer hands-on training through local clinical placements, giving students supervised real-world experience. However, these clinical hours tend to be less flexible and can involve higher overall costs with on-site attendance and transportation.

Online courses were preferred because of flexibility (46.1%) and the ease of access to study materials (46.5%). However, in-person learning was found to lead in acquisition of knowledge (44.9%), clinical skills (52.7%), and social competencies (52.7%) (Siddiqui et al., 2024). Both online and on-campus programs prepare students to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) and become RNs. Your choice should be based on your learning style, personal circumstances, and professional goals.

What is the average cost of an Online CNA to RN degree program?

Costs for online CNA to RN bridge programs vary by program type, school, and residency status. On average, tuition costs for an online ADN ranges from $6,000 to $20,000 at public colleges and up to $40,000 or more at private institutions.

Meanwhile, students pursuing a BSN through a bridge program can expect to pay between $15,000 and $50,000, depending on the school and transfer credits accepted. These figures typically exclude additional fees like textbooks, clinical supplies, and licensure exam costs. Beyond tuition, students should also anticipate miscellaneous fees such as lab fees, insurance, and exam fees (National Center for Education Statistics, 2023).

In-state and community college programs are usually the most affordable. However, actual figures may vary for online programs. Financial aid, scholarships, and employer tuition assistance can also help lower costs. Be sure to check with individual programs for current and detailed tuition breakdowns.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an Online CNA to RN degree program?

Whether you’re pursuing a licensed practical nurse career path or a CNA to RN bridge program, you have access to several types of financial aid. These include federal assistance, scholarships, grants, payment plans, and employer support.

• Federal Aid. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to access federal financial aid such as Pell Grants and federal student loans. The former is need-based and does not require repayment, but the latter must be repaid with interest. Either is widely accepted by online nursing programs.
• Scholarships and Grants. Organizations like the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) lists scholarships through its Foundation for Academic Nursing. These may include scholarships such as the American Assembly for Men in Nursing Foundation, American Association of Post-Acute Care Nursing, or the American Indian Graduate Center (AIGC), among others. The Nurse Corps Scholarship Program covers full education costs in return for service in high-need areas.
• Payment Plans. Schools may also offer interest-free tuition payment plans to help students manage costs.
• Employer Assistance. Some healthcare employers offer prepaid tuition or reimbursement for staff advancing their nursing education.

The table below shows the percentage of students in Less-than-2-year programs awarded financial aid for both public and private institutions.

Financial Aid Applicants Awarded in A.Y. 2022 - 2023

Source: NCES, 2023

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an Online CNA to RN degree program?

Students must meet several baseline requirements before enrolling in a CNA to RN bridge program. Among these include:

• Holding an active CNA credential in good standing as recognized by your state board.
• Possessing a high school diploma or GED and maintaining a minimum cumulative GPA. Most programs require at least a 2.5–2.75 GPA.
• Completing foundational classes such as anatomy and physiology, microbiology, developmental psychology, and basic math. Many schools also require passing the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS), or a comparable entrance exam.
• Some programs may also require official transcripts, a personal essay or statement of purpose, and documentation of volunteer or paid healthcare experience.

These prerequisites ensure that you are prepared both academically and clinically. Always review specific program curriculum, resources, and relevant websites for any additional or state-specific requirements.

What courses are typically in an Online CNA to RN degree program?

CNA to RN bridge programs build on CNA experience while focusing on the knowledge and skills needed for higher-level nursing roles. Expect to find the following typical courses.

• Anatomy and Physiology. Understanding body systems and their functions.
• Microbiology. The role of pathogens in human health.
• Pharmacology. Safe medication administration and drug interactions.
• Nursing Fundamentals. Core concepts in patient care and clinical skills.
• Health Assessment. Techniques for evaluating patient conditions.
• Nutrition. Basic topics covered in nutrition degree online courses.
• Maternal and Pediatric Nursing. Care for mothers, infants, and children.
• Mental Health Nursing. Addressing behavioral health and psychiatric care.
• Leadership and Ethics. Decision-making, delegation, and professional responsibility.
• NCLEX-RN Prep. Focused training to help students pass the licensure exam.

To meet RN licensure requirements, online CNA to RN degree programs also include in-person supervised clinical hours in a healthcare facility.

What types of specializations are available in Online CNA to RN degree programs?

Aside from the core nursing skills, CNA to RN bridge programs may also include coursework and clinical rotations that let you sample key practice areas.

The following are common specialty tracks and clinical focus areas.

• Medical-Surgical Nursing. Provides care for a variety of conditions, often in hospital settings, managing both pre- and post-surgical needs.
• Mental Health and Psychiatric Nursing. Delivers mental health care through counseling, crisis intervention, and medication management.
• Pediatric Nursing. Specializes in treating infants, children, and adolescents, offering developmentally appropriate care and family education.
• Obstetric and Women’s Health Nursing. Focuses on pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care, supporting both maternal and newborn health.
• Community and Public Health Nursing. What does a community health nurse do? They promotes health and disease prevention in communities, schools, clinics, and health departments.
• Geriatric and Long-Term Care Nursing. Supports aging adults in long-term or home care.
• Emergency and Critical Care Nursing. Provides rapid, high-stakes care for life-threatening injuries or illnesses in emergency and intensive care units.
• Leadership, Informatics, and Case Management. This is a great specialization if you want to become a clinical nurse leader. You will coordinates care plans, manages healthcare data, and leads teams to improve patient outcomes and system efficiency. Read more about "what does a clinical nurse leader do?"

Are Online CNA to RN Programs Accredited and Recognized?

Accreditation plays a pivotal role in ensuring that online CNA to RN programs meet rigorous educational and clinical standards. Prospective students should verify that the program is recognized by reputable accrediting bodies, as this directly impacts credit transferability, eligibility for financial aid, and eventual licensure. Accreditation also reassures employers of a graduate’s comprehensive preparation and adherence to industry quality benchmarks. In addition, prospective students may explore program cost comparisons and outcomes to ensure value, for example by checking our article How much is a RN to BSN program? Mandatory reviews of state authorization and program-specific certification further support informed decision-making.

What challenges might students encounter during their Online CNA to RN program?

Students may face hurdles related to managing clinical placements alongside online coursework, adapting to self-paced study, and meeting varying state-specific licensure requirements. Limited in-person interaction can also affect networking and mentorship opportunities. It is essential to assess program support services—such as academic advising, job placement assistance, and technical resources—to ensure these challenges are addressed. Additionally, reviewing outcomes like NCLEX-RN pass rates and program completion time can provide insights into overcoming potential challenges that may affect the transition from CNA to RN. Prospective students might consider exploring the easiest BSN program as a benchmark for evaluating program support and overall success.

Can Advanced Certifications Enhance Your Nursing Career After a CNA to RN Program?

Advanced certifications can significantly bolster professional growth by expanding clinical expertise and opening doors to specialized nursing roles. Graduates may explore targeted credentials that align with their career goals and address evolving healthcare demands. For instance, some professionals opt to advance into specialized practice areas that emphasize primary care, where pursuing online FNP programs affordable can be a strategic move. Evaluating program accreditation, curriculum focus, and subsequent job placement outcomes is essential to ensure that the certification adds tangible value to an RN’s career trajectory.

Is an Online CNA to RN Bridge Program Worth the Investment?

When evaluating the return on investment for an Online CNA to RN bridge program, prospective students should weigh program costs against the potential salary increases and expanded career opportunities. Consider factors such as tuition fees, additional expenses, NCLEX-RN pass rates, and the quality of clinical training when assessing financial benefits. Detailed outcome metrics and transparent reporting from the institution can provide clear evidence of long-term career advancement. Additionally, programs that offer pathways to specialized roles—like the quickest women's health nurse practitioner programs online—can further enhance professional growth and earning potential.

How to choose the best Online CNA to RN degree program?

Prioritize the following factors to find a quality and career-ready online CNA to RN degree program.

• Accreditation. Look for programs accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Accreditation ensures program quality and eligibility for licensure.
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rates. High NCLEX-RN pass rates suggest strong academic preparation. You can find state-specific pass rates through the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).
• Financial Aid. Compare tuition fees and inquire about available financial aid. The Federal Student Aid Office provides details on federal loans, grants, and work-study options.
• Clinical Placement Support. Verify whether the school assists with local clinical placements, which are required for RN licensure and may vary by state.
• Flexibility. Ensure the program fits your schedule. Asynchronous classes and part-time options offer flexibility for working CNAs.

What career paths are available for graduates of Online CNA to RN degree programs?

As demand for RNs are projected to increase 6% by 2032, the career opportunities available after earning an RN license are both stable and diverse. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), RNs work in settings such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, nursing homes, schools, and public health departments. They also find roles in the growing telehealth, case management, and home healthcare industries (BLS, 2024).

Common career paths include the following:

• Staff Nurse. Provides direct patient care in hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare settings.
• Pediatric, Geriatric, or Psychiatric Nurse. There is little difference between LPN and CNA and an RN in these pathways as they all specialize in caring for children, older adults, or patients with mental health needs.
• Public Health Nurse. Promotes community health through education, prevention, and outreach programs.
• Home Health Nurse. Delivers medical care and support to patients in their homes.
• Charge Nurse or Nurse Manager. Supervises nursing staff and oversees daily operations in a healthcare unit.
• Case Manager. Coordinates comprehensive care plans to ensure patients receive appropriate treatments and services.
• Nurse Educator. Trains and mentors future nurses in academic or clinical settings. This requires additional education or certain education units. Check out masters in education requirements.

The chart below shows the projected demand growth for Healthcare jobs from 2023 - 2033. The 6% for RNs translates to approximately 194,500 new jobs over the decade.

What is the job market for graduates with an Online CNA to RN degree?

The job outlook for RNs is strong. More students are learning the answer to “How much does a BSN nurse make?” The BLS reports that RN employment is projected to grow 6% from 2023 to 2033. This growth is driven by factors such as an aging population, rising chronic health conditions, and a heightened focus on preventive care.​

As of May 2024, the median annual wage for RNs was $93,600, significantly higher than the $49,500-median annual wage for all occupations. RNs are needed in hospitals, clinics, long-term care, public health, and growing sectors like home healthcare and telehealth.

Those who continue into advanced roles like nurse practitioners can expect even greater demand. These higher positions are projected to grow 40% by 2033. Overall, the RN job market offers both stability and plenty of room to advance (BLS, 2024). 

Are you a military spouse with dreams of becoming an CNA, an RN, or any type of professional? Check out the best online schools for military spouses.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Their Online CNA to RN Degree

• "Going from a certified nursing assistant to a registered nurse online allowed me to keep working while earning my license. Now, as an RN in a pediatric unit, I not only earn almost double what I did before, but I get to make a bigger impact on families every day." -Alyssa

• "The flexibility of the online bridge program meant I could study at night after my shifts. Becoming a licensed nurse has opened doors to roles and positions I never thought possible, and it’s been the most rewarding leap in my career." -Josiah

• "I was worried about the cost of going back to school, but the online CNA to RN bridge program was far more affordable than I expected. Now, as a nurse, I’m earning over $90,000 a year. That’s almost a 100% increase in my old salary." -Elena

Key Findings

• According to 2023 data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average cost for online ADN programs ranges from $6,000 to $20,000 at public institutions, and up to $40,000 or more at private schools. As an example, a 6 month RN to BSN program may cost between $15,000 and $50,000, depending on factors like institution type and residency status.
• Online CNA to RN programs may take anywhere between 10 months to 5 years to finish. Exact timelines depend on a number of factors such as prior education and whether you enroll full-time or part-time.
• 73.3% of undergraduate nursing students preferred traditional in-person classes over online learning, despite acknowledging that online classes met their expectations.
• Generally speaking, students preferred online courses because of flexibility (46.1%) and ease of access to study materials (46.5%).
• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), RNs earn significantly more than CNAs. As of May 2024, the median annual wage for registered nurses is $93,600, compared to about $42,160 for CNAs.
• RNs are in demand across many settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care, home health, and public health. Job growth is steady, with a 6% increase projected until 2032.

Other Things You Should Know About Online CNA to RN Bridge Programs

Which course is best after CNA?

Advancing your career through additional education can lead to increased responsibilities, higher earnings, and broader opportunities. The following are the most common and beneficial courses to consider.

• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). LPNs are 1-year programs that lead to basic nursing roles with a median salary of $62,340. (BLS, May 2024)
• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). A 2-year path to becoming an RN, a role with higher earning potential.
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). A 4-year degree offering access to leadership roles and higher earning potential.
• CNA to RN Bridge Programs. These accelerated RN pathways for CNAs, often completed in 12-18 months, are usually more cost-effective than traditional routes.
• Specialty Certifications. Short-term training in areas like hospice care, medication aide, or patient care tech, expanding CNA skills and pay options.

What is the fastest RN certification program?

The fastest path to becoming an RN is through an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing or ABSN program. These programs are meant for individuals with non-nursing bachelor's degrees but wish to transition into nursing. ABSN programs condense the traditional 4-year nursing curriculum into a 9- to 15-month program if done full-time.​

What is the hardest nursing certification to get?

The Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) certification is widely regarded as one of the most challenging nursing certifications. Offered by the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN), it comes with the following requirements:

• An active RN or APRN license.
• At least 1,750 hours of direct critical care experience within the past two years, or 2,000 hours within the past five years.
• Passing the CCRN exam, testing advanced knowledge in areas like hemodynamics, pharmacology, and complex patient care scenarios in high-pressure situations.

Do I need to retake my CNA certification before starting a bridge program?

Most CNA to RN bridge programs require you to hold an active and valid CNA certification at the time of application. If your certification has lapsed, you may need to renew it before enrolling. Some nursing programs may not require a current CNA license but might give preference to applicants with recent CNA experience. Make sure to check the specific admission requirements of the CNA to RN bridge program you’re choosing.

References:

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• Baby, Priya; Philip, Angelina; Simon, Anna E.; Sibi, Ann M.; Shaju, Anitta M.; Abraham, Ann M.; Kathyayani, B. V.. Undergraduate Nursing Students’ Experiences of Attending Online Classes During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Education in the Health Professions 6(1):p 42-45, Jan–Apr 2023. | DOI: 10.4103/EHP.EHP_25_22. https://journals.lww.com/ehpf/fulltext/2023/06010/undergraduate_nursing_students__experiences_of.7.aspx
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