Easiest Online RN to BSN Degree Programs: Discover Top Schools
You’re a working RN managing long shifts, family responsibilities, and maybe even a second job. Like many nurses, you want to advance your career by earning your BSN, but you need a program that won’t disrupt your life.
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Whether your concerns are time, clinical requirements, workload, or cost, this guide highlights RN to BSN programs designed with busy nurses in mind.
Below, we explore some of the easiest and most flexible RN to BSN programs available today. These programs stand out for generous transfer credit policies, short timelines, and minimal in-person requirements, making them ideal for students who need a smooth, straightforward path to earning their bachelor’s degree in nursing.
Examples of Flexible/Easier Online RN to BSN Programs
The programs below are commonly recognized for offering flexible schedules, generous transfer credit policies, and minimal in-person requirements, making them strong fits for RNs looking for an easier path to earning their BSN.
Western Governors University (WGU)
WGU offers an online RN to BSN (or ADN to BSN program) for current registered nurses who are ready to take the next step in their education and career.
- Format: Fully online | Competency-based model
- Typical Completion Time: As little as 1 year
- Clinical Requirements: 35 clinical hours | Field experience can be completed in a variety of community settings chosen by the student
- Transfer Credit Policy: Students from an accredited program receive 80 transfer credits automatically and up to 10 more evaluated
- Notable “Ease” Factors: $5,325 per six-month term flat-rate tuition | No set class meeting times | Competency-based model means you can move quickly through material you already know
Good For
Working RNs looking to earn a BSN while continuing full-time employment or on variable/shift schedules.
Capella University
Capella’s FlexPath RN to BSN format allows students to move at their own pace, making it a strong option for experienced RNs who want control over their timeline.
- Format: Fully online | FlexPath (self-paced) or GuidedPath (quarterly “semesters”)
- Typical Completion Time: 9 to 15 months, potentially faster with FlexPath.
- Clinical Requirements: 80 supervised practice hours across two final courses.
- Transfer Credit Policy: Up to 135 transfer credits.
- Notable “Ease” Factors: Pay-per-session tuition model lets some students complete the program for under $10,000; no group work or live classes; highly flexible pacing
Good For
Fast-moving, independent learners and night-shift nurses.
Chamberlain University
Chamberlain’s RN to BSN online program offers rolling admissions and a user-friendly online platform that supports nurses balancing school, work, and family.
- Format: Fully online | Asynchronous
- Typical Completion Time: As few as 12 months; most finish in 1-2 years
- Clinical Requirements: Condensed format at the end of the program with guaranteed sites
- Transfer Credit Policy: Accepts up to 75% of required credits + 77 proficiency credits for an active RN
- Notable “Ease” Factors: 8-week sessions, supportive faculty, manageable weekly workload, and access to numerous scholarship opportunities
Good For
Nurses new to online learning who want structure and guidance.
Purdue Global
Purdue Global’s RN to BSN emphasizes real-world application and offers multiple annual start dates for added convenience.
- Format: Fully online | Asynchronous
- Typical Completion Time: 12–18 months, faster with transfer credits
- Clinical Requirements: Flexible; many students use their current workplace
- Transfer Credit Policy: 119 articulation credits for active RNs + up to 16 additional GE credits
- Notable “Ease” Factors: Inclusive tuition; frequent start dates; no proctored exams; free 3-week trial
Good For
Students with prior credits or those unsure if an RN to BSN program is right for them.
Herzing University
Herzing’s RN to BSN program is designed for nurses who want a supportive and flexible pathway without traditional clinicals.
- Format: Fully online | Asynchronous
- Typical Completion Time: About 12 months (faster with transfer credits)
- Clinical Requirements: None. A 45-hour community health project is required instead
- Transfer Credit Policy: Up to 70 credits accepted
- Notable “Ease” Factors: Multiple start dates; 8-week terms; option to earn dual-credit toward an MSN
Good For
Nurses who want flexibility but also benefit from strong academic support.
Elements of the Easiest Online RN to BSN Programs
Not all RN to BSN programs are truly “easy.” But the most accessible ones tend to share the following features that help reduce stress and workload for busy nurses.
Fast Completion Options
Programs with accelerated tracks or competency-based models allow nurses to finish in under 12 months. Short course blocks (often 5–8 weeks) also let students double up or move quickly through material they already know.
This streamlined pace helps RNs earn a BSN without committing to a lengthy program.
Light or Flexible Clinical Requirements
Many RN to BSN programs avoid traditional hospital clinicals. Instead, they offer:
- Community health projects
- Work-based capstone assignments
- Virtual simulations
- Practice experiences at your current employer
These alternatives eliminate the need to coordinate extra clinical placements.
Generous Transfer Credit Policies
A hallmark of the easiest programs is generous transfer credit allowances, often awarding:
- ~90 credits for an active RN license
- Additional credits for previous coursework
- Credit for certifications or prior learning
Fewer remaining credits = a shorter, less stressful program.
Lower Weekly Time Commitment
Some RN to BSN programs require 30+ hours of weekly work. Easier programs typically average 10-25 hours per week, often with:
- Asynchronous coursework
- Fewer group projects
- Streamlined assignments
This makes it much easier to continue full-time nursing work while in school.
High Acceptance Rates & Fewer Prerequisites
Programs that simplify admissions create a smoother entry. The easiest RN to BSN options often require only:
- An active RN license
- Regional accreditation of your prior program
- Basic documentation
No GRE, no multi-step interviews, and no excessive prerequisites.
Predictable, Transparent Costs
Flat-rate or per-term tuition lets students know exactly what they’ll pay. Many of these programs also bundle fees, textbooks, and tech access to avoid surprise costs.
Predictability helps nurses budget with confidence.
Strong Student Support Services
The easiest RN to BSN programs typically prioritize support, offering:
- Dedicated advisors
- 24/7 tech help
- Tutoring and writing help
- Early transfer credit reviews
- Career coaching
These resources reduce frustration and help nurses stay on track.
FAQs About Easy Online RN to BSN Programs
Are there really any “easy” RN to BSN programs?
Yes. In this context, “easy” doesn’t mean low quality. It means the program is designed to meet the needs of working adults. Easy RN to BSN programs are fast, flexible, and less bureaucratic thanks to self-paced formats and generous transfer credits.
Can I use my current RN job to meet clinical or project requirements?
Many programs allow this. Instead of doing additional clinicals at an unfamiliar site, you may be able to complete practice-based projects at your current job or community health initiatives in your area. This saves time and helps you apply your newfound skills in real-world situations.
Can I complete an RN to BSN program while working full-time or night shifts?
Absolutely! In fact, this is what most RNs pursuing a BSN do. Many programs are asynchronous, meaning there is no set class times or in-person requirements. As long as you can manage 10–20 hours of coursework per week, you can fit school into your schedule, even around nights or full-time shifts.
Will choosing an easier RN to BSN program affect my job prospects or MSN admission later?
No. As long as the program is accredited by CCNE, your degree is just as valid as a BSN earned at any other program. Employers and graduate schools look at the credential you hold, not how quickly or where you earned it.
Are competency-based RN to BSN programs easier or faster?
They can be both. Competency-based models allow you to move ahead once you’ve mastered the material instead of wasting time going over concepts you already know. If you’re already an experienced RN, you might finish the program faster than in a traditional term-based structure.
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