Best State-Approved Online RN to BSN Programs in West Virginia (WV)
If you’re a nurse in West Virginia, earning your BSN online can move your career forward without asking you to leave your community or your paycheck behind. With nursing’s most sought-after credential behind your name, you’ll be an excellent candidate for high-paying specialty roles and jobs in administrative leadership. Below, we’ll look at some of West Virginia’s top online RN to BSN programs, including a comparison of their course structures, timelines, and tuition costs.
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Details of Online RN to BSN Programs in West Virginia
Choosing the right RN to BSN program comes down to a few factors and how they fit with your goals.
- One of the top things to consider is that not all programs follow the same pace. Many use traditional academic calendars, while others break classes up into shorter chunks that let students flex their pacing around a work schedule.
- Cost is also an important consideration. Public universities with larger cohorts are often the more accessible option for in-state students, while private universities may offer a more personalized experience at a higher price tag.
In either case, all accredited programs must include a hands-on component. While “fully online” sounds great, it usually only refers to the coursework. You’ll still have to do some type of in-person practical or clinical requirement, and how schools implement this varies.
Comparing the three programs below is a good starting point as you search for the best fit for your goals and career as a BSN-prepared nurse.
West Virginia University
WVU’s online RN to BSN program features a curriculum delivered entirely online and tailored to the needs of working nurses. Coursework is done asynchronously with no required class meetings. A capstone project is completed in your community, letting you choose a setting that’s meaningful to your career goals.
Upon admission, students are awarded 50 credit hours for RN licensure toward the 120-credit degree requirement. Of those remaining, 40 general education credits can be transferred in, and 30 nursing-specific credits are completed at WVU during the program.
This means students bringing in the maximum number of credits from their associate’s program can complete their BSN in as little as two semesters.
Duration: As little as two semesters
Mode: Fully online and asynchronous
Cost: $619 per credit hour (or $4,812 per semester regardless of courseload)
Admissions Requirements:
- Completed online application
- ADN or nursing diploma from an accredited institution
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- Minimum 2.5 GPA (provisional admission possible with lower GPA)
- Complete all prerequisites
- Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
Marshall University
The online RN to BSN program offered at Marshall University also consists of fully remote coursework that can be completed asynchronously. RNs entering the program are automatically awarded up to 40 credits upon completing their first 12 upper-level nursing courses.
The application period opens during both the fall and spring semesters and Marshall caps cohort sizes at just 30 students. This means you’ll be working with the same small group of students throughout the program. The degree can be completed in either two or four semesters, with students choosing their own path after admission.
Marshall’s program is well-suited to nurses who want a structured yet hands-off scheduling model that allows flexibility to pursue school around a full-time nursing schedule.
Duration: Two or four semesters
Mode: Fully online and asynchronous
Cost: $456 per credit hour
Admissions Requirements:
- Completed online application
- ADN or nursing diploma from an accredited institution
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- Minimum 2.5 GPA
- Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
- Pass a criminal background check and drug screening
West Liberty University
West Liberty’s RN to BSN program is fully online and asynchronous, letting students transfer up to 72 credits from an accredited associate’s degree program. Full-time students can complete the accelerated track in as few as three semesters.
Coursework spans topics including healthcare systems, geriatric nursing, and quality and safety. As one of the smaller nursing programs in West Virginia, West Liberty pairs every student with a dedicated nursing advisor for individualized support throughout the program.
Prior to applying, you’ll need to hold a valid RN license in West Virginia, unlike some other programs which accept applicants with a license from out-of-state.
Duration: As little as three semesters
Mode: Fully online and asynchronous
Cost: $466 per credit hour
Admissions Requirements:
- Completed online application
- ADN or nursing diploma from an accredited institution
- Active, unencumbered RN license in West Virginia
- Minimum 2.0 GPA across all courses
- Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
FAQs for West Virginia RN to BSN Students
Are RN to BSN programs in West Virginia available in a 100% online format?
Yes. West Virginia students can find several RN to BSN programs which offer coursework in an entirely online format, including many with asynchronous scheduling. As with all accredited BSN programs, some hands-on component is required.
Most West Virginia schools cover this requirement with a capstone or community health project that students can complete at a healthcare facility close to home. You may even be able to meet this requirement in your current workplace.
How affordable are online RN to BSN programs in West Virginia?
West Virginia’s RN to BSN programs range in cost from $450 to over $600 per credit hour. However, most schools offer generous transfer policies that can significantly reduce the final cost to earn your degree if you’ve already completed an associate’s program. On top of this, some programs also award credits for professional nursing experience.
How long will it take me to finish my online RN to BSN program in West Virginia?
Across West Virginia’s RN to BSN programs, completion timelines can be as short as two semesters and as long as four. Some students who want to prioritize a full-time work schedule alongside their schooling may take three years or more to complete their program. How much time you’ll need to obtain your degree largely depends on whether you enroll full-time or part-time and how many transfer credits you’re eligible for.
Before applying, it’s wise to speak with an admissions representative from the institution you’re interested in to see what your transfer credit situation looks like.
What are the typical admissions requirements for West Virginia online RN to BSN programs?
Two commonalities across RN to BSN programs in West Virginia are graduation from an accredited ADN or diploma nursing program and a current, unencumbered RN license. Some schools will accept applicants licensed to practice in their home state, while others specifically seek a West Virginia RN license.
A modest GPA requirement in the 2.0 to 2.5 range is also a common ask for most RN to BSN programs. You’ll likely need to complete several prerequisite courses as well, which can be done before enrolling or sometimes in tandem with your nursing coursework.
Is it worth pursuing a BSN in West Virginia if I already have my ADN?
For most working RNs, yes. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for RNs in the U.S. is $93,600 per year. However, BSN-prepared nurses often make between $10,000 to $20,000 more than their ADN counterparts.
West Virginia’s healthcare industry is experiencing increased demand thanks to an aging population and chronic health problems across the state. From rural clinics to larger health systems in Charleston and Morgantown, BSN-prepared nurses can find jobs with higher pay and more responsibility.
Salary & Pay with a BSN in West Virginia
Registered Nurses
| Area ↕︎ | 10th Percentile ↕︎ | Median ↕︎ | 90th Percentile ↕︎ |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | $57,210 | $80,130 | $131,760 |
| Beckley, WV | $63,820 | $78,680 | $110,140 |
| Charleston, WV | $51,110 | $80,230 | $138,850 |
| Huntington-Ashland, WV-KY-OH | $62,810 | $81,010 | $124,650 |
| Morgantown, WV | $61,150 | $80,130 | $135,790 |
| Parkersburg-Vienna, WV | $53,570 | $79,000 | $114,600 |
| Weirton-Steubenville, WV-OH | $62,070 | $77,400 | $91,170 |
| Wheeling, WV-OH | $60,260 | $78,280 | $107,410 |
Source: Registered Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2025
Data does not reflect school-specific information.
Best Online RN to BSN Programs in WV
Salem University
Program Details
- Location: Salem, WV
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 88%Students W/ Aid
- $6,567Avg. Aid Amount
- 19/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Salem University
- Completion can be achieved in as few as ten months with continuous enrollment.
- Registered nurses automatically receive at least 60 transfer credits, accelerating progress toward the BSN.
- A scholarship can reduce tuition to just $475 per credit, lowering the cost of attendance.
Program Details
- Location: Salem, WV
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 88%Students W/ Aid
- $6,567Avg. Aid Amount
- 19/1Student/Faculty Ratio
West Virginia Junior College-Morgantown
Program Details
- Location: Morgantown, WV
- ABHESAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 97%Students W/ Aid
- $8,122Avg. Aid Amount
- 17/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected West Virginia Junior College-Morgantown
- The program offers a fully online, accelerated RN to BSN option that can be completed in just six months.
- Eligible WVJC and East Ohio College ADN graduates receive automatic BSN Pathway scholarship awards, significantly reducing overall tuition costs.
- The curriculum is career-focused, emphasizing critical thinking, nursing informatics, leadership, and a capstone that ties learning directly to real-world practice.
Program Details
- Location: Morgantown, WV
- ABHESAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 97%Students W/ Aid
- $8,122Avg. Aid Amount
- 17/1Student/Faculty Ratio
American Public University System
Program Details
- Location: Charles Town, WV
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 81%Students W/ Aid
- $2,072Avg. Aid Amount
- 25/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected American Public University System
- The RN to BSN program automatically awards registered nurses 30 transfer credits for their active RN license.
- Students can apply up to 90 total transfer credits, significantly reducing remaining coursework and overall tuition cost.
- The fully online RN to BSN format is designed for working nurses, providing flexible, accessible completion pathways.
Program Details
- Location: Charles Town, WV
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 81%Students W/ Aid
- $2,072Avg. Aid Amount
- 25/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Bluefield State University
Program Details
- Location: Bluefield, WV
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 76%Students W/ Aid
- $10,063Avg. Aid Amount
- 13/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Bluefield State University
- The nationally accredited, fully online RN to BSN program is specifically designed for working registered nurses, allowing BSN completion in just three to four semesters.
- Affordable online tuition at approximately $375 per credit (about $10,500 for BSN courses) makes advancing your degree financially accessible.
- Year-round online application and flexible part-time/open-enrollment options provide convenient entry and scheduling tailored to busy RNs’ lives.
Program Details
- Location: Bluefield, WV
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 76%Students W/ Aid
- $10,063Avg. Aid Amount
- 13/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Marshall University
Program Details
- Location: Huntington, WV
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 84%Students W/ Aid
- $10,813Avg. Aid Amount
- 16/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Marshall University
- The program offers accelerated completion in as little as two semesters, enabling faster career advancement.
- The 100% online format with 7-week course blocks allows working nurses to focus on 1–2 classes at a time for greater flexibility.
- The nationally accredited curriculum (ACEN) emphasizes evidence-based practice and clinical integration, strengthening professional credibility and career options.
Program Details
- Location: Huntington, WV
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 84%Students W/ Aid
- $10,813Avg. Aid Amount
- 16/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Potomac State College of West Virginia University
Program Details
- Location: Keyser, WV
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 69%Students W/ Aid
- $7,017Avg. Aid Amount
- 13/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Potomac State College of West Virginia University
- The RN to BSN program is 100% online and asynchronous, allowing working nurses maximum schedule flexibility.
- Students can choose accelerated full‑time completion in three semesters or extended part‑time study over six.
- The program is specifically designed for working RNs with existing diplomas or associate degrees, supporting career advancement without stopping work.
Program Details
- Location: Keyser, WV
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 69%Students W/ Aid
- $7,017Avg. Aid Amount
- 13/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Fairmont State University
Program Details
- Location: Fairmont, WV
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 70%Students W/ Aid
- $7,721Avg. Aid Amount
- 14/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Fairmont State University
- Flexible online coursework lets working nurses keep full-time jobs while completing the degree.
- The program can be finished in three semesters, including summer, depending on academic history.
- Students gain real-world experience through flexible project-based assignments and practicums.
Program Details
- Location: Fairmont, WV
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 70%Students W/ Aid
- $7,721Avg. Aid Amount
- 14/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Wheeling University
Program Details
- Location: Wheeling, WV
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 88%Students W/ Aid
- $22,560Avg. Aid Amount
- 15/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Wheeling University
- The program is 100% online with flexible, self-paced 16-week sessions designed for working nurses.
- Students can complete their BSN in as little as 12 months while continuing full-time employment.
- No traditional clinical hours are required; practice-based experiential projects provide real-world learning instead.
Program Details
- Location: Wheeling, WV
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 88%Students W/ Aid
- $22,560Avg. Aid Amount
- 15/1Student/Faculty Ratio
University of Charleston
Program Details
- Location: Charleston, WV
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 62%Students W/ Aid
- $19,206Avg. Aid Amount
- 15/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Charleston
- The RN to BSN program is fully online and designed for working registered nurses, offering flexible scheduling with no residency requirement.
- Students can complete the program in as little as three semesters of full-time study, accelerating their path to a BSN.
- The program is recognized among the top RN to BSN options in West Virginia, highlighting its strong quality and reputation.
Program Details
- Location: Charleston, WV
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 62%Students W/ Aid
- $19,206Avg. Aid Amount
- 15/1Student/Faculty Ratio
West Virginia University
Program Details
- Location: Morgantown, WV
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 76%Students W/ Aid
- $12,265Avg. Aid Amount
- 19/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected West Virginia University
- The program offers in-state tuition rates to all RN to BSN students, regardless of residency, significantly reducing cost.
- Students can complete the fully asynchronous, 100% online RN to BSN program in as few as two semesters, ideal for working nurses.
- WVU maintains formal transfer partnerships with 11 community colleges, creating a seamless, affordable pathway from associate degree to BSN.
Program Details
- Location: Morgantown, WV
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 76%Students W/ Aid
- $12,265Avg. Aid Amount
- 19/1Student/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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