Best Self-Paced Online RN-to-BSN Degree Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Approximately 100,000 fewer nurses are working today than before COVID-19, per the American Hospital Association's 2023 study. This shortage has significantly affected patient care, encouraging many to pursue nursing, especially with today's prevalence of online nursing degrees.

As listed in this article, many distinguished institutions offer self-paced online RN-to-BSN degree programs designed with busy nurses in mind. Continue reading to learn more about their program length, advantages over traditional programs, costs, and common requirements.

What are the benefits of getting a self-paced online RN-to-BSN degree?

• You can qualify for leadership roles, including nurse manager, clinical supervisor, and charge nurse.
• BSN-prepared nurses earn higher salaries than ADN or diploma nurses. The average salary for a BSN nurse in the U.S. is $85,000–$100,000+, depending on location and experience.
• In a self-paced online RN-to-BSN degree, you can access online lectures, virtual simulations, and digital resources for enhanced learning without relocating or commuting.

What can I expect from a self-paced online RN-to-BSN degree?

• Curriculum: The program covers advanced nursing concepts, evidence-based practice, leadership, community health, and healthcare policy. Many programs also include virtual simulations and clinical practice requirements, often allowing students to complete them at work.
• Tuition: A self-paced online RN-to-BSN degree costs $8,000 to $25,000, and many schools offer payment plans or employer tuition reimbursement options. Some programs charge per credit, while others use a flat-rate subscription model.
• Program Length: Most self-paced RN-to-BSN programs can be completed in 12 to 24 months, while some allow students to graduate in under a year.

Where can I work with a self-paced online RN-to-BSN degree?

With a self-paced online RN-to-BSN degree, you can work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, long-term care facilities, and home health agencies. Many magnet hospitals and top healthcare institutions prefer hiring BSN-prepared nurses for roles in critical care, surgery, and emergency departments.

Public health agencies, schools, and government organizations also seek BSN holders for community health and case management roles, focusing on disease prevention and wellness programs. Additionally, many of these nurses work in oncology, pediatrics, informatics, and research, where advanced knowledge and critical thinking skills are highly valued.

Outside of traditional clinical settings, nurses can pursue careers in leadership, education, and policy development, overseeing teams and training future nurses. There are opportunities in telehealth, pharmaceutical companies, and insurance firms as well, where nurses play a crucial role in case review, patient education, and healthcare technology implementation. 

How much can I make with a self-paced online RN-to-BSN degree?

PayScale's latest report shows that BSN graduates earn $96,000 per year, on average. Higher salaries are available in critical care, operating room, informatics, and case management, where BSN degrees are often required or preferred. In states with high nursing demand, such as California and New York, salaries can exceed $100,000 annually. 

Nurses who transition into leadership roles (such as Nurse Manager or Director of Nursing) can earn $100,000–$130,000 annually, while those who work in nursing education or research may also see competitive salaries. Having a BSN also opens the door to advanced degrees (MSN, DNP), leading to even higher-paying positions like Nurse Practitioner (NP) or Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), with salaries ranging from $120,000 to $200,000+.

 Table of Contents

1. Best Self-Paced Online RN-to-BSN Degree Programs for 2025
2. How long does it take to complete a self-paced online RN-to-BSN degree?
3. How does a self-paced online RN-to-BSN degree compare to an on-campus program?
4. What is the average cost of a self-paced online RN-to-BSN degree?
5. What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an RN-to-BSN degree?
6. What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an RN-to-BSN degree?
7. What courses are typically in an RN-to-BSN degree?
8. What types of specializations are available in RN-to-BSN degrees?
9. What are the potential challenges of a self-paced online RN-to-BSN degree?
10. What is the return on investment for a self-paced online RN-to-BSN degree?
11. How do you choose the best self-paced online RN-to-BSN degree?
12. What career paths are available for graduates of RN-to-BSN degrees?
13. Can additional certifications enhance your career after a self-paced online RN-to-BSN degree?
14. Should I Consider Advanced Degrees After My Self-Paced Online RN-to-BSN Program?
15. What Professional Networking and Mentorship Opportunities Enhance Your RN-to-BSN Journey?
16. How Can a Self-Paced RN-to-BSN Degree Bridge the Gap to Advanced Practice Roles?
17. How do self-paced online RN-to-BSN programs ensure robust clinical training?
18. What Are the Graduation and Job Placement Rates for Self-Paced Online RN-to-BSN Programs?
19. What is the job market for graduates with an RN-to-BSN degree?
20. Are self-paced online RN-to-BSN degrees equivalent to traditional programs in clinical preparedness?
21. Other Things You Should Know About a Self-Paced Online RN-to-BSN Degree

Best Self-Paced Online RN-to-BSN Degree Programs for 2025

How do we rank schools?

We understand the value of a high-quality education. To provide trustworthy insights into the best self-paced online RN-to-BSN degree programs, we conducted a thorough analysis using reputable sources such as the IPEDS database, Peterson's Distance Learning Licensed Data Set, College Scorecard database, and the National Center for Education Statistics.

For a deeper look into our evaluation process, visit our research methodology section, where we detail the comprehensive steps involved in our data collection and analysis.

1. University of Toledo RN-to-BSN program

The University of Toledo's online, self-paced RN-to-BSN program has produced esteemed nurses since 1974. The program utilizes a Competency-Based Education (CBE) model, allowing students to progress at their own pace and master skills and knowledge as they advance. The curriculum includes courses, such as Transition to BSN Practice, Applied Health Assessment Across the Lifespan, and Informatics in Nursing.

• Program Length: As few as 2 semesters
• Track/Concentration: General RN to BSN track
• Cost: $335 per credit
• Required Units: 120
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

2. Lourdes University RN-to-BSN program

Lourdes University provides a self-paced, 100% online RN-to-BSN degree tailored for working adults. The program is modeled on CBE, focusing on measuring abilities and skills rather than time spent in class. Graduates of non-accredited associate degree or diploma programs may be considered for provisional admission. 

• Program Length: Varies
• Tracks/Concentrations: General RN to BSN track
• Cost: $860 per credit
• Required Units: 120
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

3. Winston-Salem State University RN-to-BSN program

Winston-Salem State University offers an online RN-to-BSN degree designed with an innovative curriculum and advanced technology. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, leadership, and community health. It also integrates health equity and social justice, preparing graduates to become better nurse leaders for their patients and the world.

• Program Length: 3-5 semesters
• Track/Concentration: General RN to BSN track
• Cost Per Credit: $114-$474
• Required Credits: 128
• Accreditation: CCNE

4. University of Texas Permian Basin RN-to-BSN program

The University of Texas Permian Basin's online RN-to-BSN focuses on health assessment, nursing research, and community health. The program equips graduates for leadership positions in healthcare, empowering them to advocate for patient-centered care. It's composed of asynchronous components, except for 2 clinical practices.

• Program Length: 1 year
• Track/Concentration: General RN to BSN track
• Tuition: $362 per credit
• Required Units: 120
• Accreditation: CCNE

5. University of Louisiana Monroe RN-to-BSN program

The University of Louisiana Monroe delivers an online RN to BSN degree available in full-time or part-time arrangement. The program covers health assessment, nursing leadership, and evidence-based practice topics. Nursing graduates with accredited diplomas and associate degrees holding an unencumbered license to practice may be granted 39 semester credit hours.

• Program Length: 1 year
• Tracks/Concentrations: General RN to BSN track
• Estimated Total Cost: $200 per credit
• Required Credits: 120
• Accreditation: CCNE

How long does it take to complete a self-paced online RN-to-BSN degree?

Most self-paced online RN-to-BSN programs allow students to finish in 12 to 24 months, with some accelerated options becoming the fastest way to become a registered nurse in as little as 9 to 12 months. Unlike traditional semester-based programs, self-paced formats often allow students to progress through coursework as quickly or slowly as needed, depending on their availability and learning speed.

Some universities also allow students to complete as many courses as possible within a given period. This structure benefits students who can work through material quickly, reducing both tuition costs and completion time. On the other hand, nurses who prefer a more flexible, part-time approach can take one course at a time, extending their timeline to 18–24 months or longer if needed. 

How does a self-paced online RN-to-BSN degree compare to an on-campus program?

In self-paced online RN-to-BSN programs, students often complete assignments and exams on their timeline. This format eliminates the need for commuting, making it accessible to nurses in rural areas or those with unpredictable work shifts. Many RN to BSN online fast track options also use asynchronous learning, enabling students to access lectures, discussion boards, and assignments 24/7 rather than attending scheduled in-person classes.

On-campus programs, however, offer structured learning environments with face-to-face interactions. These benefit students who thrive on in-person discussions, networking, and hands-on collaboration. They also often provide direct access to faculty, on-campus resources, and clinical training opportunities, though many online RN-to-BSN programs now offer virtual simulations and flexible clinical placements to compensate for this. Traditional programs can take longer due to fixed academic calendars.

Ultimately, both formats lead to the same BSN credential, but self-paced online programs provide more convenience, affordability, and accessibility for working professionals.

What is the average cost of a self-paced online RN-to-BSN degree?

The average cost of a self-paced online RN-to-BSN degree typically ranges from $8,000 to $25,000, depending on the institution, program length, and tuition model. This is cheaper than an in-person BSN degree, which falls between $40,000 and over $200,000, according to the American Nurses Association (ANA).

Some universities also charge $200 to $500 per credit. Others use a flat-rate subscription model, where students pay a set fee per term and complete as many courses as possible.

Beyond tuition, students applying in the top 10 RN to BSN online programs should consider technology fees, textbooks, and clinical expenses. Some programs bundle these costs into the overall tuition, while others charge separately.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an RN-to-BSN degree?

Public universities often offer lower BSN tuition rates for in-state residents, while private institutions may have higher tuition but more financial aid opportunities. Earn a cheap RN to BSN with the help of the following:

• Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program: This program offers loan repayment assistance to RNs, APRNs, and nurse faculty who commit to working in a critical shortage facility or an eligible public health setting for at least two years. Participants can receive up to 85% of their unpaid nursing education debt in exchange for their service.
• American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Scholarships: The AACN offers scholarships to students pursuing a BSN, MSN, or doctoral nursing degree, with awards ranging from $2,500 to $5,000. Applicants must be enrolled in an AACN-accredited program and demonstrate academic excellence.
• Tylenol Future Care Scholarship: This national scholarship provides $5,000 to $10,000 to students pursuing degrees in healthcare, including nursing. Recipients are chosen based on academic performance, leadership qualities, and a commitment to healthcare service.
• Foundation of the National Student Nurses Association (FNSNA) Scholarship: This scholarship awards $1,000 to $7,500 to nursing students enrolled in an accredited BSN program. Selection is based on academic performance, leadership, and financial need, with additional consideration given to students focusing on critical areas of nursing.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an RN-to-BSN degree?

Recent surveys show that the educational accomplishments of RNs increased, with the majority of its workforce holding a bachelor's degree or higher. To enroll in an RN-to-BSN program, applicants must meet requirements such as:

• Active RN License – Applicants must hold a current and unencumbered RN license in their state of practice. Some programs may require verification of work experience as a licensed RN.
• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Nursing Diploma – A completed ADN or nursing diploma from an accredited institution is required for admission. Some programs may require additional coursework if the ADN was earned from a non-accredited school.
• Minimum GPA Requirement – Many RN-to-BSN programs require a minimum GPA of 2.5 to 3.0 from previous nursing coursework. Some schools may offer conditional admission for students with lower GPAs based on work experience or additional testing.
• Completed General Education Courses – Prerequisites typically include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, statistics, English composition, and psychology. Students who have not completed these courses may need to take them before or alongside their RN-to-BSN coursework.
• Clinical Experience or Work History (Varies by Program) – Some programs require recent clinical experience as a practicing nurse, while others accept newly licensed RNs. In most self-paced online programs, students can complete clinical components at their workplace or through approved healthcare facilities.

What courses are typically in an RN-to-BSN degree?

An RN-to-BSN program builds upon foundational nursing knowledge by incorporating leadership, research, and specialized patient care courses. These courses enhance critical thinking, clinical decision-making, and evidence-based practice skills, preparing nurses for advanced roles in healthcare.

• Professional Nursing Practice – This course explores the transition from ADN- to BSN-level professional practice, focusing on critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and leadership. It emphasizes the importance of evidence-based practice and lifelong learning in nursing.
• Health Assessment and Physical Examination – Students develop advanced patient assessment skills, including physical, psychosocial, and cultural evaluations. The course teaches techniques for conducting comprehensive health assessments across diverse populations.
• Nursing Leadership and Management – This course covers organizational behavior, team collaboration, healthcare policies, and leadership strategies in nursing. It prepares students for supervisory roles, equipping them with conflict resolution, delegation, and decision-making skills.
• Community and Public Health Nursing – Focused on population-based healthcare, this course teaches students about disease prevention, health promotion, and epidemiology. It often includes a community-based clinical component, allowing students to work with underserved populations.
• Evidence-Based Practice and Nursing Research – Students learn to analyze, interpret, and apply nursing research to improve patient care and outcomes. This course emphasizes critical appraisal of scientific literature and the implementation of research findings in clinical settings.

What types of specializations are available in RN-to-BSN degrees?

Many hospitals now seek Magnet Recognition from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), prioritizing hiring BSN-trained nurses. Develop expertise in high-demand fields by pursuing specializations in:

• Nursing Leadership and Management – This specialization prepares nurses for supervisory roles such as nurse manager, charge nurse, or director of nursing. Coursework focuses on healthcare administration, budgeting, staff management, and leadership strategies in clinical settings.
• Public Health Nursing – Nurses specializing in public health focus on disease prevention, health education, and community-based healthcare initiatives. This track is ideal for those who want to work in government agencies, nonprofits, or community health organizations.
• Nursing Informatics – This specialization teaches nurses how to use healthcare technology, data analytics, and electronic health records (EHRs) to improve patient care and hospital efficiency. Graduates can pursue roles as informatics nurses, healthcare IT specialists, or clinical analysts.
• Pediatric Nursing – Nurses interested in child and adolescent care can specialize in pediatrics, focusing on growth and development, pediatric diseases, and family-centered care. This specialization suits those working in children’s hospitals, schools, or pediatric clinics.
• Geriatric and Long-Term Care Nursing – With the aging population, geriatric nursing focuses on elder care, chronic disease management, and palliative care. This specialization is ideal for nurses employed in nursing homes, hospice care, or assisted living facilities.

What are the potential challenges of a self-paced online RN-to-BSN degree?

While self-paced online RN-to-BSN programs offer flexibility and accelerated timelines, they may also present challenges that require careful consideration. One significant challenge is the need for strong self-discipline to manage rigorous coursework without structured class times. Limited real-time faculty interaction and peer engagement can reduce opportunities for immediate feedback and mentorship, potentially impacting the depth of learning. Furthermore, technical demands and discrepancies in support for clinical placements may affect the overall learning experience. Prospective students should assess institutional resources and support systems to ensure that accelerated options—such as the 6 month RN to BSN program—offer a balanced approach to flexibility and comprehensive skill development.

What is the return on investment for a self-paced online RN-to-BSN degree?

Evaluating the return on investment (ROI) involves measuring tuition and ancillary costs against long-term benefits such as enhanced salary potential, accelerated career progress, and improved professional credibility. Graduates typically report that the flexible, self-paced format not only minimizes opportunity costs—by allowing students to maintain their professional roles—but also opens doors to leadership and specialized clinical positions that command higher compensation. Factors such as reduced downtime, immediate application of skills, and the ability to transfer credits to further studies play an essential role when comparing upfront investments with future gains. For those aiming at advanced roles, further exploration into online DNP education programs may provide additional avenues for professional growth and improved long-term ROI.

How do you choose the best self-paced online RN-to-BSN degree?

RNs comprise one of the biggest segments of the American workforce. To enter this field, choose a self-paced online RN-to-BSN program based on:

• Accreditation – Ensure the program is accredited by a recognized nursing body such as the U.S. Department of Education. Accreditation guarantees that graduates are fully equipped for future licensure or advanced degrees.
• Program Flexibility – Look for a program that offers asynchronous learning, no set class times, and rolling start dates to maximize self-paced flexibility. Consider a subscription model to take easy RN to BSN online courses.
• Clinical Requirements – Some RN-to-BSN programs require in-person clinical practicums, while others allow students to complete them at their current workplace. If you need a fully online option, check if the program offers virtual simulations or flexible clinical placements.
• Student Support and Resources – Strong programs provide access to academic advisors, career counseling, and online tutoring to support student success. Look for schools that offer networking opportunities, job placement assistance, and alumni connections to help advance your career.
• Reputation and Graduate Outcomes – Research program rankings, student reviews, and graduate employment rates to gauge the school’s reputation. A program with high NCLEX pass rates, employer partnerships, and successful alumni strongly indicates outstanding education.

What career paths are available for graduates of RN-to-BSN degrees?

With the growing emphasis on evidence-based practice and advanced patient care, many employers now offer higher BSN nurse salary brackets, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement opportunities. If nursing is your desired path, expect to land a career as a:

• Nurse Manager or Charge Nurse – BSN-prepared nurses can advance into supervisory roles, overseeing nursing teams, managing patient care units, and ensuring hospital policies are followed. These roles come with higher salaries and increased responsibility in healthcare facilities.
• Public Health Nurse – Public health nurses work in community health organizations, government agencies, and non-profits to promote disease prevention and wellness. They focus on health education, vaccination programs, and outreach efforts for underserved populations.
• Critical Care or ICU Nurse – With a BSN, nurses can specialize in intensive care, handling critically ill patients in ICUs, trauma centers, and emergency departments. These positions require advanced clinical skills, quick decision-making, and high levels of responsibility.
• Nurse Educator – BSN graduates can become nurse educators, teaching at community colleges, hospitals, and healthcare training programs. This role involves curriculum development, mentoring nursing students, and conducting training sessions.
• Case Manager or Care Coordinator – In these roles, nurses work with patients, families, and healthcare teams to develop comprehensive care plans and coordinate services. Case managers often work in hospitals, insurance companies, and home health agencies to improve patient outcomes.

Meaningful work, engagement, and schedule flexibility are the most important job factors for RNs.

How Can a Self-Paced RN-to-BSN Degree Bridge the Gap to Advanced Practice Roles?

A self-paced RN-to-BSN degree refines clinical decision-making and self-directed learning—qualities valued in advanced practice positions. This format enables nurses to integrate practical experience with academic rigor, positioning them to pursue specialized roles without a prolonged academic hiatus. Many professionals use this pathway to transition into advanced clinical functions and leadership positions. For nurses aiming to expand their practice scope, combining the BSN with targeted credentials can streamline entry into roles such as nurse practitioner, with options available from 2 year NP programs.

How do self-paced online RN-to-BSN programs ensure robust clinical training?

Quality clinical training is essential for translating online academic learning into effective patient care. Self-paced RN-to-BSN programs achieve this through structured partnerships with healthcare facilities, simulation technologies, and integrated clinical modules that allow students to build hands-on competencies. Programs typically establish clear guidelines for clinical placements, ensuring that the flexible course pacing does not compromise real-world practice. This approach not only reinforces core nursing skills but also prepares graduates for specialized roles by mirroring current healthcare practices and regulatory standards. For example, robust clinical experiences can be pivotal for roles in mental health, where additional training contributes to competitive outcomes, as seen with mental health nurse practitioner salary.

What Are the Graduation and Job Placement Rates for Self-Paced Online RN-to-BSN Programs?

Evaluating graduation and job placement rates is essential when selecting a self-paced online RN-to-BSN program. Programs that transparently share their completion and employment data often indicate robust academic support, effective curriculum design, and reliable clinical placement partnerships. Prospective students should review these metrics as they reflect both the program’s ability to meet educational goals and its success in aligning graduates with industry demands. Comparing these rates with benchmarks from sources such as our guide on easy nursing programs to get into can provide further insights into program quality and long-term career outcomes.

What is the job market for graduates with RN-to-BSN degrees?

As healthcare evolves, nurses will remain highly employable and well-positioned for long-term career growth. The BLS projects that employment for nursing graduates will grow by 6% from 2023 to 2033. There's also a greater demand for BSN nurses in specialized and leadership roles.

Meanwhile, states like New York have implemented BSN in 10 laws, requiring newly licensed nurses to earn a BSN within 10 years to maintain licensure. This has further driven demand for RN-to-BSN graduates. The shift toward value-based care, the expansion of telehealth, and an aging population have also created new job openings in home health, community health, and preventive care settings.  

Are self-paced online RN-to-BSN degrees equivalent to traditional programs in clinical preparedness?

Self-paced RN-to-BSN programs incorporate structured clinical partnerships, simulation-based learning, and clearly defined rotation requirements to ensure graduates are fully equipped for real-world challenges. These programs adhere to rigorous accreditation standards that benchmark clinical competencies alongside academic knowledge, aligning with industry-specific expectations. Emerging evidence from employment outcomes shows that healthcare organizations value the proactive learning approach and self-discipline fostered by self-paced formats, with graduates demonstrating comparable proficiency to those from traditional programs. For nurses aspiring to further advance their clinical expertise, pathways such as affordable online BSN to DNP offer an integrated approach to deepen both academic and practical skill sets.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Their Self-Paced Online RN-to-BSN Degrees 

"Earning my BSN online at my own pace was a game-changer. As a full-time nurse and a mom, I needed flexibility, and this program let me study when it worked for me—whether during lunch breaks or late at night. I finished in just under a year, and it helped me land a leadership position with a higher salary!" – Eve

"I was hesitant about online learning at first, but the self-paced format allowed me to accelerate through familiar material and take my time on more challenging courses. The digital resources, virtual simulations, and 24/7 access to coursework made it easy to stay on track. Now, with my BSN, I’ve transitioned into a public health role, making a real impact in my community!" – Jason

"The ability to complete my RN-to-BSN degree online without sacrificing my job or personal time was priceless. I appreciated the support from professors and the flexibility to do clinicals at my current workplace. Having a BSN has not only expanded my career opportunities but also deepened my confidence as a nurse." – Samuel

Can additional certifications enhance your career after a self-paced online RN-to-BSN degree?

Post-graduation certifications and specialized training can further distinguish you in a competitive healthcare environment. Earning additional credentials in areas such as critical care, leadership, or emerging fields offers opportunities to assume advanced roles with increased responsibilities. For example, pursuing specialized certifications that focus on older adult nursing can broaden your expertise and directly impact patient outcomes in the aging population, a rapidly growing segment. Explore gerontology career paths to better understand how targeted training in geriatric care can expand your professional horizons. Consistent engagement in continuing education and industry-recognized programs not only adds to professional credibility but also opens doors to positions that require advanced clinical competencies and critical decision-making skills.

Should I Consider Advanced Degrees After My Self-Paced Online RN-to-BSN Program?

Graduates aiming for further career advancement may benefit from assessing the potential of an advanced degree. Pursuing a master’s level education can enhance clinical expertise, leadership abilities, and strategic decision-making skills. In addition, transitioning into graduate studies often opens doors to specialized roles in research, healthcare administration, or advanced clinical practice. For professionals seeking a streamlined progression, exploring options such as online MSN programs for non nurses can provide a viable pathway to elevate practice and expand career opportunities.

What Professional Networking and Mentorship Opportunities Enhance Your RN-to-BSN Journey?

Self-paced RN-to-BSN programs increasingly incorporate structured networking events, virtual alumni meetups, and dedicated mentorship platforms to bridge academic learning with practical experience. These programs facilitate direct connection with industry professionals, offer webinars and career workshops, and provide pathways for internships in diverse healthcare settings—a framework that supports leadership development and informed career transitions. Proactive engagement in these networking opportunities can also serve as a gateway for further academic pursuits, such as an affordable online doctor of nursing practice program, ultimately broadening professional horizons.

Key Findings

• Self-paced programs usually enable students to progress through coursework as quickly or slowly as needed.
• Hospitals seeking Magnet Recognition from the ANCC prioritize hiring graduates with a BSN.
• The biggest segment of the U.S. workforce is made up of RNs, as stated by the AACN.
• McKinsey's 2023 research determines that 82% of nurses stayed in their positions due to meaningful work.
• To maintain licensure, many states have started requiring newly licensed nurses to earn a BSN within 10 years.

Other Things You Should Know About a Self-Paced Online RN-to-BSN Degree

Is a self-paced RN-to-BSN degree recognized by hospitals and employers?

Yes, a self-paced RN-to-BSN degree is widely recognized by hospitals and employers as long as it comes from an accredited institution. Most healthcare organizations prioritize BSN-prepared nurses due to industry trends favoring higher education. Employers focus more on accreditation (CCNE or ACEN), curriculum quality, and clinical competencies rather than the format in which the degree was earned. Many hospitals actively support RN-to-BSN education through tuition reimbursement programs and view online, self-paced programs as a practical solution for working nurses. As long as graduates meet licensing requirements and demonstrate strong clinical skills, a self-paced online RN-to-BSN degree holds the same credibility as a traditional on-campus program.

What is the easiest RN to BSN program online?

Generally, the easiest programs are self-paced, have minimal clinical requirements, and allow RNs to apply prior coursework or professional experience toward their degree. Universities offering competency-based education (CBE) are often considered the easiest because students can complete courses at their own speed and test out of material they already know. Programs with no group projects, asynchronous coursework, and generous transfer credit policies also tend to be more manageable for busy nurses. However, while these programs are designed for convenience, accreditation and employer recognition remain critical—choosing a CCNE- or ACEN-accredited program ensures that your degree will be respected by employers and meets professional nursing standards.

What is the hardest nursing degree?

The hardest nursing degree is typically considered the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (Ph.D.), as both require extensive coursework, research, and clinical practice. The DNP focuses on advanced clinical practice, healthcare leadership, and policy implementation, often requiring rigorous evidence-based projects and high-level decision-making skills. The Ph.D. in Nursing, on the other hand, is heavily research-focused, requiring students to complete dissertation work, conduct original studies, and contribute to nursing science—a process that can take several years. Among undergraduate degrees, the BSN through an accelerated program (ABSN) is considered one of the most difficult due to its fast-paced curriculum, intensive clinical rotations, and heavy workload of exams, lab work, and practical training. 

What is the hardest RN job?

The hardest RN job is often considered to be critical care nursing, particularly roles in the ICU, ER, or trauma center. These nurses handle life-threatening situations, high patient acuity, and extreme pressure, requiring quick decision-making and advanced clinical skills. Flight nurses and burn unit nurses also face intense challenges, providing emergency care in unpredictable and often dangerous conditions. Moreover, oncology nurses experience significant emotional strain, forming close bonds with patients while witnessing long-term suffering and end-of-life care. Psychiatric nurses and those working in correctional facilities manage complex behavioral and safety challenges, too, often dealing with aggressive patients and crisis interventions. 

References:

• American Hospital Association. (2023, April 13). Study projects nursing shortage will continue without concerted action. Retrieved January 29, 2025, from AHA.
• ANA. (2024, February 9). ADN vs. BSN: Which is Right for You? Retrieved January 29, 2025, from ANA.
• BLS. (2024, April 3). Occupational Employment and Wage Statisics. Retrieved January 29, 2025, from BLS.
• PayScale. (2024). Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Retrieved January 29, 2025, from PayScale.