Your Guide to the Best Online RN to BSN Programs in VA

Virginia’s Online RN to BSN Programs Uncovered

Many Virginia schools offer affordable online registered nurse (RN) to Bachelor Science in Nursing (BSN) programs that give working nurses an immense amount of flexibility in terms of time and cost. Programs are completely online for coursework with clinical opportunities taking place in person, often where a student already works as an RN. Asynchronous courses allow you to schedule classes around your current work commitments and family obligations. You can choose how long you want to be in the program, whether that’s as short as a year (full-time) or taking it slowly over a few years (part-time). Additionally, some programs offer free credits toward a BSN simply for having an RN license and/or experience working as an RN. The three programs highlighted below exemplify the quality RN to BSN programs available in Virginia.

FAQs from Future RN to BSN Students

Most RNs considering an RN to BSN program in Virginia have many of the same questions, including those related to the opportunities and increased pay that are possible. They also wonder about program length, cost, and financial aid, in addition to what the process entails and how to make sure a program is of high quality. Find answers to many of those questions below.

How will an RN to BSN program in Virginia prepare me for more opportunities?

Earning a BSN degree strengthens the foundations you’ve developed as an RN. RN to BSN programs cover a range of topics from healthcare leadership and management to clinical decision-making, and most provide clinical training for hands-on experience in a variety of settings. All of these set you up for success as an RN with a BSN and the more challenging roles as case managers, nurse educators, and charge nurses. Earning your BSN also puts you on track for higher education, and many programs even plan specifically for that opportunity within the bachelor’s degree itself.

How long does it take to complete an RN to BSN program in Virginia, and are they affordable?

Many factors influence affordability as well as how long it takes to complete an RN to BSN program in Virginia. Those include tuition, number of transfer or experience credits you have, and if you enroll part-time or full-time. Full-time students at some Virginia schools can finish their BSNs in as little as a year, but a BSN could take two or three years with part-time classes. On average, RN to BSN programs require around 30 credits beyond an associate degree. Costs range from $300 to $500 per credit, and most programs are eligible for financial aid.

Is there financial aid available to Virginia RN to BSN students?

A range of financial aid options, including scholarships and loans, are available to students in RN to BSN programs. The Virginia Department of Health is a great resource for more information on nursing scholarship programs in the state. Opportunities include a one-year student loan repayment program in exchange for service in Virginia after graduation and scholarship awards of $2,000 per year. This is in addition to the scholarships through the specific school you attend. Because of the financial aid opportunities available, it’s important to do your research to find out all the general and nursing-specific scholarships you qualify for.

What should I look for in a quality RN to BSN program in Virginia?

The Virginia Board of Nursing recommends looking at the National Council Licensure Examination for RNs (NCLEX-RN) pass rates for the past few years. A pass rate of 80% is a strong indicator of the program’s success. The state’s board also requires 500 hours of direct client care experience, so a program emphasizing clinical experience is also important. In addition to being approved by the Virginia Board of Nursing, check for accreditation status through the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) since these organizations help set standards for nursing education. Most colleges also post this information on their websites.

How do I become an RN with a BSN in Virginia?

You need your RN license to complete an RN to BSN program in Virginia, though some allow you to begin classes if you plan to pass your NCLEX-RN soon. You want your BSN program to be accredited and to have the flexibility you need to continue working as an RN while taking classes. Schools with accessible faculty and student services are also key for completing a BSN program. Most programs also require clinicals and fieldwork to give you a wide range of experience and deepen your knowledge, making you prepared for a variety of roles available only to nurses with BSNs.

RN vs. BSN Careers: Virginia Salary Insights

Higher salary potential is one of the biggest benefits of going from an RN to a BSN in Virginia. On average, RNs in Virginia earn $88,350 compared to RNs nationwide at $86,070. While the data does not differentiate between RNs with and without bachelor’s degrees, RNs with bachelor’s degrees are sought out to fill higher-paying positions such as nurse executives, roles in federal agencies and the military, and case management and health promotion because of their wide-ranging abilities, critical thinking skills, and leadership ability. Keep in mind, too, that RNs with BSNs can work outside the traditional healthcare arena and make even more in consultant and other positions that command nearly $90,000 per year.

A BSN increases employment opportunities by expanding the options to those unavailable without a bachelor’s degree. You can also choose to continue your studies to earn a master’s in nursing degree or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) — which would open up even more leadership roles in healthcare. RNs without bachelor’s degrees still have plenty of opportunities and make good money, so it’s important to choose the right path for you, but having a BSN does prepare you for the highest level of professional growth and opportunity.

Ranking Virginia’s Online RN to BSN Bridge Training Options

To make sure you choose the right program for you, the rankings below of the best online RN to BSN programs in Virginia includes vetted schools that check all the boxes. They were chosen based on accreditation, online components, academic counseling, and career placement services. For details on the selection process, check out the About the Rankings popup below; otherwise, continue reading for a list of the best online RN to BSN programs in Virginia.