As part of your nursing education, you need to complete on-site work at a healthcare facility. So, although there are online programs available, you do have to do hands-on work as well. Some wonder, then – why even consider online schools in the first place? Let’s take a look at some of the advances to online RN to BSN programs, as well as who might benefit from campus programs instead.

Cost

Although cost shouldn’t dictate the type of education you receive, this is a concern for many students. If you complete most of your RN to BSN program online, the cost will generally be lower than if you attend classes at a traditional brick-and-mortar college. Online schools don’t have an many operating expenses, since there are no building to maintain, so tuition is lower (on average) and as a student, you can do work from home, which means no commuting expenses or room and board payments. Both online and offline school offer scholarships and grants to students, and as long as the program is accredited, you can also look for financial aid from outside sources as well.

Legitimacy

At one time, online schools weren’t highly regulated. Today, they can be accredited just like campus programs, so you can be sure that the online RN to BSN program you attend will preparing you for licensing in your state. When it comes to legitimacy, online and offline programs should be treated equally. Before you attend either, check accreditation. If your program isn’t accredited, which is still found online, you won’t be able to get your nursing license after you graduate.

Flexibility

One of the biggest advantages to online school is that these programs allow you to be flexible with your education – you don’t have to attend classes on a strict schedule. However, be aware that online schools offering RN to BSN programs may not be flexible with the medical facilities where you can get the hands-on learning you need to complete your degree. Before you choose a program, make sure you understand your practical work options so you can choose a program that works for you.

For registered nurses who wish to earn a bachelors of science in nursing, or BSN, we have listed the top online schools below and the programs they offer. You can request free information from each school by following the links and filling out a short "Request Information" form.

RN to BSN RN to MSN	Kaplan University — Kaplan's RN to BSN program empowers you to earn your bachelor's degree online from an accredited leader in education. The curriculum features an emphasis on professional leadership and health promotion and includes courses in management, informatics, research, and emerging trends in medicine. A capstone completed in your community allows you to apply your knowledge.
RN to BSN	University of Phoenix — The University of Phoenix RN to Bachelor of Science degree program is designed to advance the skill set of registered nurses. Courses in biological, physical, and social sciences build on one another to culminate with the graduation of a more knowledgeable and professional nurse. The unique liberal arts component further adds to your educational development.
RN to BSN RN to BSN to MSN	Chamberlain College of Nursing — At Chamberlin College of Nursing, the RN to BSN program is raved over by students for its flexible, student centric approach. Registered nurses are able to earn their Bachelor's in as few as three semesters. The program offers the ease of online education without the time consuming clinical training requirements found at other programs.
RN to BSN	Florida Hospital College of Health Science — Florida Hospital College of Health Sciences is based on tradition and excellence. It's RN to BSN program is known for the faculty, who strive to ensure students achieve the highest level of learning. Graduation rates are among the best in the country and alumni work in institutions across America.
RN to BSN	University of St. Mary — According to the latest labor reports, there exists a need for nurses at the bachelor's level. Designed for registered nurses that seek a bachelor's degree, the RN to BSN program at University of St. Mary features a curriculum that is modeled after the latest concepts to ensure your success as a leader and in the field of nursing.
BS in Management for RNs	Post University — The Post University RN to BSN program is renowned for promoting nurses into the higher echelons of their field. Graduates work in advanced administrative or management positions in healthcare. The curriculum teaches decision-making, critical-thinking, communications, quantitative, analytical, and leadership skills. Up to 60 credits are accepted from previous degree or diploma programs.
RN to BSN	Grand Canyon University — Grand Canyon University's RN to BSN in Nursing Program is designed for registered nurses who already possess their associate's degree or diploma in nursing. The curriculum focuses on the inherent skills of an RN, building on them to graduate competent nurses with more advanced skills. Courses are taught both online and in the classroom.
RN to BSN	Kent State University — The College of Nursing at Kent State University features an accredited RN to BSN degree program that specializes in the transformation of entry-level nurse to a more advanced care provider. Courses teach disease prevention and risk reduction. The curriculum is praised for its innovation and relevance.
RN to BSN	Walden University — According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for registered nurses is projected to continue to increase dramatically through 2016. Further studies have indicated that the earnings gap between those with and without a bachelor's degree is growing. At Walden, you can earn your bachelor's with a flexible, relevant, online program.
RN to BSN	Liberty University — Liberty University's RN to BSN program is built to provide students an environment for learning in a Christian setting. Students boast that they have some of the best faculty, many of which earned their degrees at Liberty. Liberty is committed to your success and professional growth.
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