Connecticut Online RN to BSN Programs: Best Board-Approved Schools in 2027
Do you dream of advancing your nursing career by earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)? Returning to school as a Connecticut RN has never been easier. Online RN to BSN programs provide you with the flexibility you need as a working professional. Discover how to get started by exploring our guide to the best online RN to BSN programs in Connecticut.
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School Spotlights: Inside Online RN to BSN Programs in Connecticut
Whether you’re working full-time, part-time, or per diem, online RN to BSN programs in Connecticut are designed with you in mind. They offer fully or mostly online coursework for working nurses, and you can take classes at your own pace. However, they generally have a clinical component that must be completed offline.
If you’re curious about timelines, cost, courses, and admission requirements, review these online RN to BSN programs in Connecticut.
Central Connecticut State University
Central Connecticut State University’s (CCSU) RN to BSN program is dedicated to helping you succeed through its flexible program offerings for working nurses:
- Fully online classes
- Access to resources on campus, including simulation labs and childcare services
- Option to participate in community health events
- Full-time or part-time enrollment
- Enrollment twice a year in January and August
The program is 120 credits and offers a generous transfer policy. Coursework covers nursing ethics, health assessment, population health, leadership, health policy, and more.
CCSU’s RN to BSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Duration: 12 months
Mode: Online
Cost: $6,525/term, full-time for Connecticut residents (or $642 per credit); $8,275/term, full-time for non-residents (or $659 per credit)
Admissions Requirements:
- Connecticut RN license
- Completion of at least 45 previous undergraduate credits
- Official transcripts
- Academic advisement with faculty
Goodwin University
The RN to BSN program at Goodwin University, located in East Hartford, is designed for working nurses who hold an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a nursing diploma. Courses are delivered 100% online in 15-week formats, and you can finish in just 12 months with part-time enrollment.
Some coursework includes:
- Introduction to Nursing Research
- Public and Community Health Nursing
- Introduction to Healthcare Policy and Advocacy
- Leadership and Management in Nursing
This 120-credit program permits transfer of up to 62 credits of previous nursing coursework (grade C+ or better).
Goodwin’s RN to BSN program is accredited by the CCNE.
Duration: 12 months (part-time)
Mode: Online
Cost: $7,724/semester (or $770 per credit)
Admissions Requirements:
- ADN or diploma in nursing
- Official transcripts
University of Bridgeport
The RN to BSN program at University of Bridgeport can be completed in an online, asynchronous format – ideal for the working nurse. Courses are offered in 7-week terms, and you’re allowed to take anywhere between 1 to 4 courses per term.
Six enrollment dates are available throughout the year. The program is 120 credits total, but you can transfer up to 90 credits of previous college coursework.
Curriculum covers health assessment, safety, evidence-based practice, leadership, informatics, community health, and more. A minimum of 35 hours of community activities away from the classroom is required.
Bridgeport’s RN to BSN program is accredited by the CCNE.
Duration: 1.5 years
Mode: Online (with in-person community activities)
Cost: $360 per credit hour ($10,800 for the entire program if you transfer 90 credits)
Admissions Requirements:
- RN license
- Minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA
- College transcripts
- High school diploma or GED
FAQs for Connecticut RN to BSN Students
Are RN to BSN programs in Connecticut available in a 100% online format?
No. RN to BSN programs in Connecticut may advertise as ‘online’, but this refers to the online nature of the lecture coursework. You’re still required to complete some form of clinical hours, but many are naturally embedded into the program.
While there are some RN to BSN programs that do not require “clinicals” per se, you still need to complete hours outside of the classroom.
- For example, University of Bridgeport’s program is online, but you are required to complete at least 35 hours of offline activities towards a community project.
How affordable are online RN to BSN programs in Connecticut?
Online RN to BSN programs in Connecticut cost between $360 and $770 per credit, per the schools in this guide. But the total cost depends on factors such as:
- The amount of financial aid you’re able to secure
- Your state residency
- The number of credits you can transfer
For example, Connecticut residents enrolled full-time at Central Connecticut State University pay $2,050 less per term than their non-resident counterparts. Also, University of Bridgeport’s entire program is just over $10,000 if you transfer the maximum 90 credits allowed.
How long will it take me to finish my online RN to BSN program in Connecticut?
You can finish an online RN to BSN program in Connecticut in about 12 months. This timeframe depends heavily on your prospective program’s setup, your chosen pace, and the number of credits you can transfer.
For example, full-time enrollment generally shortens an RN to BSN program to 12 months, but you can finish in this same amount of time through part-time enrollment at Goodwin University. This means you can work a full-time job and still finish quickly.
What are the typical admissions requirements for Connecticut online RN to BSN programs?
Typical admission requirements for Connecticut online RN to BSN programs include RN licensure and an ADN or nursing diploma. An official transcript is required to prove you’ve completed your degree and any transferable coursework.
Some programs may make additional requests. For example, University of Bridgeport’s program requires a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 and a high school diploma or GED.
Is it worth pursuing a BSN in Connecticut if I already have my ADN?
Yes, pursuing a BSN in Connecticut can be worth it. Most employers prefer to hire nurses with a bachelor’s degree and BSN holders generally earn higher annual salaries than ADN holders.
As of September 2026, Connecticut BSN-prepared nurses earn an average of $97, 282 per year while those with associate degrees earn around $83,587.
Salary Comparison: RN vs. BSN in Connecticut
Registered Nurses
| Area ↕︎ | 10th Percentile ↕︎ | Median ↕︎ | 90th Percentile ↕︎ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Connecticut | $80,350 | $102,740 | $134,870 |
| Bridgeport-Stamford-Danbury, CT | $83,030 | $105,660 | $141,330 |
| Hartford-West Hartford-East Hartford, CT | $80,440 | $101,470 | $125,080 |
| New Haven, CT | $81,770 | $104,490 | $144,980 |
| Norwich-New London-Willimantic, CT | $76,830 | $101,330 | $125,590 |
| Waterbury-Shelton, CT | $81,600 | $101,690 | $134,890 |
Source: Registered Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2025
Data does not reflect school-specific information.
Today’s Best Online/Hybrid RN to BSN Programs in CT
Charter Oak State College
Program Details
- Location: New Britain, CT
- NECHEAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 61%Students W/ Aid
- $5,593Avg. Aid Amount
- 15/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Charter Oak State College
- One low flat tuition rate for all students, with many able to pay community college prices.
- Fully online, CCNE-accredited RN to BSN program specifically designed for working licensed RNs seeking advancement.
- Exclusive employer partnerships (e.g., Hartford HealthCare, Oak Hill) offering 10% tuition discounts and waived application fees.
Program Details
- Location: New Britain, CT
- NECHEAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 61%Students W/ Aid
- $5,593Avg. Aid Amount
- 15/1Student/Faculty Ratio
University of Bridgeport
Program Details
- Location: Bridgeport, CT
- NECHEAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 85%Students W/ Aid
- $23,988Avg. Aid Amount
- 15/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Bridgeport
- The program offers 100% online, asynchronous classes specifically designed for busy working registered nurses, providing maximum scheduling flexibility.
- Prospective students can transfer up to 90 previously earned credits, allowing many RNs to complete the BSN in about one academic year plus a summer semester.
- Through a formal state community college nursing agreement, eligible graduates receive guaranteed enrollment and substantial advanced placement credit toward the BSN, ensuring a smooth transition and faster degree completion.
Program Details
- Location: Bridgeport, CT
- NECHEAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 85%Students W/ Aid
- $23,988Avg. Aid Amount
- 15/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Goodwin University
Program Details
- Location: East Hartford, CT
- NECHEAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 88%Students W/ Aid
- $6,066Avg. Aid Amount
- 13/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Goodwin University
- The RN-to-BSN program can be completed part-time in just 12 months, fully online.
- A fixed tuition model and broad financial aid options, including grants and scholarships, make the program highly affordable.
- Eligible RN-to-BSN students may qualify for up to $10,000 in targeted funding through institutional initiatives.
Program Details
- Location: East Hartford, CT
- NECHEAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 88%Students W/ Aid
- $6,066Avg. Aid Amount
- 13/1Student/Faculty Ratio
University of Saint Joseph
Program Details
- Location: West Hartford, CT
- NECHEAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 88%Students W/ Aid
- $26,879Avg. Aid Amount
- 10/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Saint Joseph
- The program’s Multicultural Health concentration uniquely prepares nurses to serve culturally and linguistically diverse populations.
- It explicitly trains nurses to eliminate health disparities and promote health equity for vulnerable groups, enhancing community impact.
- Designed for licensed associate-degree RNs, it builds on existing expertise to advance professional practice and career opportunities.
Program Details
- Location: West Hartford, CT
- NECHEAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 88%Students W/ Aid
- $26,879Avg. Aid Amount
- 10/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Western Connecticut State University
Program Details
- Location: Danbury, CT
- NECHEAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 62%Students W/ Aid
- $7,954Avg. Aid Amount
- 11/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Western Connecticut State University
- The RN to BSN program offers affordable public-university tuition at approximately $495 per credit plus minimal fees.
- The program’s hybrid and online format, with afternoon/evening classes, is designed specifically to accommodate working RNs’ schedules.
- Participation in the Connecticut Articulation Model allows eligible RNs to receive up to 60 advanced placement credits, significantly accelerating degree completion.
Program Details
- Location: Danbury, CT
- NECHEAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 62%Students W/ Aid
- $7,954Avg. Aid Amount
- 11/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Southern Connecticut State University
Program Details
- Location: New Haven, CT
- NECHEAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 65%Students W/ Aid
- $8,712Avg. Aid Amount
- 11/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Southern Connecticut State University
- Flexible RN-BS study options support working registered nurses with individualized attention and part-time availability.
- Southern offers an accelerated career-entry pathway for qualified students who want to change into nursing faster.
- The program sits within an accredited School of Nursing with multiple BSN pathways and strong faculty support.
Program Details
- Location: New Haven, CT
- NECHEAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 65%Students W/ Aid
- $8,712Avg. Aid Amount
- 11/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Quinnipiac University
Program Details
- Location: Hamden, CT
- NECHEAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 97%Students W/ Aid
- $30,817Avg. Aid Amount
- 12/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Quinnipiac University
- Students can transfer up to 90 credits and complete the fully online program at an accelerated pace.
- The program offers an RN to MSN in Operational Leadership pathway, enabling completion of BSN and MSN in as little as two years.
- All online courses are taught by the same experienced School of Nursing faculty who teach on campus, ensuring consistent academic quality.
Program Details
- Location: Hamden, CT
- NECHEAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 97%Students W/ Aid
- $30,817Avg. Aid Amount
- 12/1Student/Faculty Ratio
University of Hartford
Program Details
- Location: West Hartford, CT
- NECHEAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 93%Students W/ Aid
- $31,974Avg. Aid Amount
- 11/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Hartford
- RN to BSN students with a recent 3.0 GPA may qualify for automatic admission to Hartford’s MSN program.
- Practicing RNs receive a minimum of 60 transfer credits toward the BSN, significantly reducing remaining coursework.
- The RN to BSN is an upper-level program specifically designed for practicing licensed nurses, supporting career advancement.
Program Details
- Location: West Hartford, CT
- NECHEAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 93%Students W/ Aid
- $31,974Avg. Aid Amount
- 11/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Central Connecticut State University
Program Details
- Location: New Britain, CT
- NECHEAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 73%Students W/ Aid
- $7,403Avg. Aid Amount
- 14/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Central Connecticut State University
- Ranked #1 online RN to BSN program in Connecticut, offering respected, career-enhancing credentials for working nurses.
- Program can be completed in as little as one year, with maximized transfer credits for faster graduation.
- 100% online nursing classes, flexible full- or part-time study, plus scholarships, financial aid, and on-campus childcare support.
Program Details
- Location: New Britain, CT
- NECHEAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 73%Students W/ Aid
- $7,403Avg. Aid Amount
- 14/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Sacred Heart University
Program Details
- Location: Fairfield, CT
- NECHEAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 95%Students W/ Aid
- $21,629Avg. Aid Amount
- 15/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Sacred Heart University
- Current RN to BSN tuition is discounted $6,000 from 2020 rates, at $390 per credit.
- Students can transfer up to 90 credits, significantly reducing both program length and total cost.
- Online format with expert full-time nursing faculty and local fieldwork lets nurses study while working full time.
Program Details
- Location: Fairfield, CT
- NECHEAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 95%Students W/ Aid
- $21,629Avg. Aid Amount
- 15/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘25-’26 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves:
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic and career counseling on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted*.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area.
- Avg. Aid Amount – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Students w/ Aid – Percent of full-time, first-time students undergraduates awarded institutional aid.
- Online Enrollment – Percent of undergraduate students taking at least one distance education class.
- Graduation Rate – Percent of full-time, first-time receiving an award in 6 years.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
*Metrics #2-5 and #6-7 were equally weighted.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2025
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