The healthcare landscape is changing, as are the expectations for nursing professionals. More employers now require a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), and many healthcare systems offer higher pay, leadership opportunities, and greater job security to BSN-prepared RNs. Fortunately, returning to school doesn’t have to mean going into a lot of debt. At GetEducated.com, we’ve ranked the Top 5 Most Affordable Online RN to BSN Programs for 2025, all based on total published tuition and required fees. These programs are fully accredited, designed for working nurses, and highly budget-friendly.
Top 5 Affordable Online RN to BSN Programs
1. Western Carolina University
Why It Stands Out: WCU takes the top spot for low cost while offering a flexible, high-quality program tailored for RNs.
Duration: ~1 year (full-time)
Tuition: ~$3,800 total
Highlights: CCNE-accredited, asynchronous learning, transfer-friendly.
Perfect for: Nurses seeking a fast, affordable BSN with strong public university support.
2. Winston-Salem State University
Why It Stands Out: As part of the UNC system, WSSU delivers a highly affordable BSN completion program with a focus on equity and community health.
Duration: ~1–1.5 years
Tuition: ~$4,200 total
Highlights: Fully online, HBCU with a mission-driven curriculum, NC-based clinical alignment.
Perfect for: RNs working in diverse or underserved communities who want a values-based education.
3. Fayetteville State University
Why It Stands Out: FSU is another standout from the UNC system, offering exceptional value and support services for working nurses.
Duration: ~1 year
Tuition: ~$4,500 total
Highlights: Flexible start dates, CCNE-accredited, and accessible to out-of-state students.
Perfect for: Budget-conscious nurses ready to earn their BSN quickly and affordably.
4. East Georgia State College
Why It Stands Out: EGSC offers a compact, focused RN to BSN program that emphasizes leadership and clinical reasoning at a low cost.
Duration: 1 year
Tuition: ~$5,200 total
Highlights: 100% online, part of Georgia’s public college system, streamlined course layout.
Perfect for: Georgia nurses or compact-license RNs looking for a fast, structured degree path.
5. University of Florida
Why It Stands Out: UF delivers a top-ranked nursing program at an impressively low price for in-state students—plus strong national recognition.
Duration: ~1 year
Tuition: ~$6,000 total
Highlights: Taught by experienced faculty, excellent clinical reputation, highly respected brand.
Perfect for: Florida-based RNs seeking top-tier education with regional advantages.
Why Choose an Affordable Online RN to BSN?
- Required or preferred by many hospitals and health systems
- Prepares nurses for advanced roles and graduate study
- Flexible learning for working RNs
- Transfer credit maximizes prior ADN or diploma coursework
- Significantly more affordable than traditional on-campus options
Parting Thoughts
Earning your BSN is one of the smartest moves you can make in today’s nursing profession—and with these affordable, accredited online programs, it’s more accessible than ever. Whether you’re looking to boost your pay, qualify for promotions, or prepare for advanced practice, these RN to BSN programs are built for working nurses who want quality without the cost.
Watch this short video to compare your options at a glance, then visit the full ranking report to explore tuition breakdowns, admission requirements, and to request more information directly from the schools.
Still have questions about prerequisites or credit transfers?
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