# Online RN to BSN Degree
> | Program Level | Field of Study | Program Name | Average Program Length | Estimated Program Cost | Eligible Transfer Credits | Credits per Course | Estimated Cost per Course | Programmatic Accreditation |
| -------- | -------- | -------- | -------- | -------- | -------- | -------- | -------- | -------- |
| Bachelor’s Degree | Nursing | B.S. in Nursing | 14 months – 2.5 years | $14,000 | 87 credits | 3 credits | $1,220 | CCNE |
[Apply now](https://www.phoenix.edu/application/quick-app/personal-info?programcode=BSN)
**Online learning with real-world clinical experience:**Programs combine online coursework with direct-care clinical experiences that include in-person learning in approved public health settings. Clinicals may be completed in a student’s workplace or local community, with support available throughout the process.[Learn about online learning with clinicals](#clinicals).
## Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
With an online RN to BSN degree you can take your passion for patient care to the next level. Transfer credits from your Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and complete your RN to BSN in as little as 14 months and for 14K. **You must have an active and unencumbered RN license prior to enrolling.**
### Job-ready skills for your professional profile
**Leadership**: Apply leadership and organizational principles that promote safe healthcare delivery and nursing practice.
**Communications**: Integrate patient care communication and information technology systems in healthcare delivery to improve patient outcomes.
**Leadership:**Apply leadership and organizational principles that promote safe healthcare delivery and nursing practice.
**Communications**: Integrate patient care communication and information technology systems in healthcare delivery to improve patient outcomes.
**Operations and Policy:**Incorporate strategies that influence health policy at state, national and international levels for delivering safe, quality patient care.
**Operations and Policy: **Incorporate strategies that influence health policy at state, national and international levels for delivering safe, quality patient care.
## RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program overview
[Embedded content](https://www.youtube.com/embed/EJmzcQ9GEUk?rel=0&controls=1&fs=0&modestbranding=1&cc_load_policy=0)
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### programmatic accreditation
The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master’s degree program in nursing and Doctor of Nursing Practice program at University of Phoenix are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street, NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791.
## Career-relevant education with real-world value
### Program at a glance
#### Curriculum aligned with industry organizations
The program curriculum is aligned with recommendations by leading nursing organizations, such as:
- American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN®)
- Quality & Safety Education for Nurses (QSEN)
#### Senior Leadership Practicum
The online RN to BSN degree includes a capstone course that helps you integrate and synthesize the content and experiences from all nursing courses into a final leadership project.
#### Promotes healthy communities
Learn how to implement appropriate health promotion and disease prevention strategies for diverse individuals, families and populations across the life span.
### Program by the numbers
$14K
Cost of tuition & fees[[1](#cost-footnote)]
14 months
Average program length with 87 transfer credits
33 credits
Required with an active RN and ADN
87 credits
Eligible transfer credits
[1] Standard track RN to BSN with 87 transfer credits : $350/credit x 3 credits + $170 resource fee = $1,220 per course x 11 courses =Estimated program cost of $14K.
Time is valuable – don’t spend it repeating coursework. Finish what you started.
[Learn about transfer credits](/tuition-financial-aid/transfer-credits.html)
## Courses for the Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
### Find what you'll learn in a course – look for the skills-aligned trophy cup
Using labor analytics data, we embed skills you’ll need in the growing nursing field into each course of your online RN to BSN degree. You’ll learn about health information technology for nursing, healthcare policy and professional nursing leadership perspectives.
### Core Courses
### General Education Courses
### Electives
---
### Requirements and course details
Your course schedule may vary based on[transfer credits](/tuition-financial-aid/transfer-credits.html)or credits earned through the University’s [Prior Learning Assessment](/tuition-financial-aid/prior-learning-assessment.html).
#### Degree requirements for the Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Completion of a minimum of 120 credits, including:
- General education: 47 credits
- Core courses: 33 credits (includes 90 direct care clinical hours)
- A minimum of 40 lower division nursing credits
- A minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0
#### What are core courses?
Core courses build the bulk of program-specific knowledge. Our online RN to BSN degree curriculum develops on a foundation of biological, physical and social sciences paired with the intellectual, social and cultural aspects of the professional nurse.
You’ll learn how to:
- Demonstrate evidence-based, holistic patient-centered care that reflects knowledge of the health-illness continuum.
- Apply models and processes to promote public health and disease prevention strategies for diverse individuals, families and populations across the life span.
- Demonstrate professional standards of moral, ethical and legal conduct in the healthcare industry.
- Apply leadership and organizational principles that promote safe healthcare delivery and nursing practice.
#### What are direct care clinical hours?
Your RN to BSN degree online has two courses that each require 45 direct care clinical hours. While you complete the instructional portion of these courses 100% online, you can complete the direct care clinical hours in your own community.
#### Public Health Nurse (PHN) Certification for California registered nurses
If you reside in California, our BSN degree provides you with coursework that’ll allow you to apply for a Public Health Nurse (PHN) certification in California.
## Online learning with real-world clinical experience
** Flexible online** **learning **that helps you reach your educational goals.
** Clinical hands-on experience** with direct care in-person clinical hours. A clinical coordinator provides support throughout the site and preceptor selection process.
** Online support is available** up to 14 hours a day, 5 days a week. From day one, you'll have access to an academic support team dedicated to your educational success.
**Flexible online** **learning **that helps you reach your educational goals.
**Clinical hands-on experience** with direct care in-person clinical hours. A clinical coordinator provides support throughout the site and preceptor selection process.
**Online support is available** up to 14 hours a day, 5 days a week. From day one, you'll have access to an academic support team dedicated to your educational success.
Susan H. | BSN
Susan H. | BSN
### Program purpose statement
The Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing is a post-licensure education program designed for nurses with an active and unencumbered RN license who wish to obtain a bachelor's degree in the professional field of nursing. The program is designed to develop the professional knowledge and skills of registered nurses and prepare them as generalists who are able to apply critical thinking, professional skills and knowledge to make clinical decisions that will result in positive patient outcomes and support healthcare systems. View the[Nursing Student Handbook (PDF)](/content/dam/edu/degrees/doc/program-details/nursing-program-handbook-uopx.pdf) to learn more about program details.
## Compare Standard RN to BSN track to CBE
Learning styles differ between the competency-based and stardard RN to BSN tracks. Compare tracks and choose your pathway.
>
## Standard RN to BSN
**Who is this best for?**
RNs who want a structured, predictable schedule
**Program length**
Typically 24 months ( with 87 transfer credits)
**Pace**
One 5-week course at a time
**Learning style**
Structured and faculty led
[Apply for standard RN to BSN](https://www.phoenix.edu/application/quick-app/personal-info)
>
## Competency-Based RN to BSN
**Who is this best for?**
Experienced RNs who want a faster completion time and prefer a self-paced format
**Program length**
As little as 12 months ( with 87 transfer credits)
**Pace**
Flexible pace. Move faster through materials you already know.
**Learning style**
More flexible with faculty guidance
[Explore competency-based RN to BSN](/online-nursing-degrees/rn-to-bsn-competency-based-bachelors.html)
| Program features | Standard RN to BSN | Competency-Based RN to BSN |
|---|---|---|
| Who is it best for? Who is it best for? | Who is it best for? RNs who want a structured, predictable schedule | Who is it best for? Experienced RNs who want a faster completion time and prefer a self-paced format |
| Program length Program length | Program length Typically 24 months ( with 87 transfer credits) | Program length As little as 12 months ( with 87 transfer credits) |
| Pace Pace | Pace One 5-week course at a time | Pace Flexible pace. Move faster through materials you already know. |
| Learning style Learning style | Learning style Structured and faculty led | Learning style More flexible with faculty guidance |
| Get started Get started | Get started Apply for Standard RN to BSN | Get started Explore competency-based RN to BSN |
## How skills-aligned learning works
What’s something employers are looking for in job candidates? Skills! That’s why we believe in career-focused education. Our programs are designed to help you demonstrate career-relevant skills and put them into practice within weeks, not years. Here’s how:
Curriculum
We work with a labor market analyst to identify skills today’s employers want in job candidates and embed those skills in our program’s curriculum.
Courses
Each course you take teaches specific career-relevant skills – one skill per credit, on average. For a 3-credit course, you can earn 3 career-relevant skills.
Careers
Demonstrate your newly acquired skills, earn badges, build your professional profile and show potential employers what you bring to the table.
[Learn about skills curriculum](/online-degrees/skills-aligned-learning.html)
## Career opportunities with an online RN to BSN degree
Our program isn’t just about earning a nursing degree – it’s about getting ready for your career. Learn practical knowledge and develop skills to prepare for roles as a charge nurse, public health nurse or director of nursing.
### Job-ready skills
Top skills learned in this program:
- Business Management for Nursing Professionals
- Communications
- Compassion in Population Health
- Coordinating Safe Care
[Learn about skills](/online-degrees/skills-aligned-learning.html)
### Career opportunities
An RN to BSN can prepare you to be a:
- Charge Nurse
- Public Health Nurse (PHN)
- Director of Nursing (DON)
[Learn about Career Navigator](https://www.phoenix.edu/career-services.html#career-navigator2)
### Work environments
You may work in:
- Hospitals; state, local and private
- Ambulatory healthcare services
- Government
- Nursing and residential care facilities
- Educational services; state, local and private
[Browse our career guides](/career-guides.html)
Step: 2 of 7
### Have you completed a program with the University?
#### I am a returning Alumni I’ve graduated from University of Phoenix and want to continue my education.
#### I am continuing my program I attended previously and was unable to complete my program but I’m ready to finish.
## Why we ask this question
Knowing your current status with the University allows us to personalize your scholarship results.
Step: 3 of 7
### How long ago did you attend University of Phoenix?
#### A year ago, or more
#### Less than a year ago
## Why we ask this question
Returning students may be eligible for certain scholarships if they attended during a particular time frame.
Step: 4 of 7
### What degree level are you interested in?
#### Bachelor's degree
#### Master's degree
#### Doctoral degree
## Why we ask this question
Our scholarships are degree level specific.
Step: 5 of 7
### How many credits do you expect to transfer?
#### 0 - 9
#### 9 - 12
#### 12 - 60
#### 60 - 102
#### More than 102
## Why we ask this question
An estimate of transfer credits allows us to personalize your possible scholarship results.
Step: 6 of 7
### What is your current GPA?
#### Less than 3.0
#### 3.0 - 3.25
#### 3.25 - 3.75
#### 3.75 - 3.85
#### More than 3.85
## Why we ask this question
Providing your current GPA allows us to determine which scholarships you may be eligible for.
Step: 7 of 7
### How many years of work experience do you have?
#### 3 or more years
#### Less than 3 years
## Why we ask this question
Some of our University of Phoenix scholarships require that you have previous work experience.
## Here are your results!
Based on your selections, here's a list of scholarships you may be eligible for.
Results
## Questions?
Our dedicated support team is here to help. Don’t hesitate to reach out.
Contact us
## Next steps to consider
We recommend checking out other savings opportunities. Our Savings Explorer® tool has helped bachelor’s students on average save $11,000 & nearly 1 year off their undergraduate degree. It's easy to use and there's no obligation to enroll.
## What's next?
Receive a free Scholarships and Savings Guide right to your inbox with more information on scholarships, the application process and other savings opportunities.
Career guide
### Charge Nurse
Learn more about the career opportunity as a charge nurse. Our career guide provides deeper insight into salary ranges and in-demand skills.
[Explore this career](/career-guides/nursing/charge-nurse.html)
### Career outlook
**5% growth**
According to the[Bureau of Labor Statistics,](https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/registered-nurses.htm#tab-1) job growth for registered nurses is projected to be faster than average between 2024 and 2034.
---
((edu.BLSdisclaimer))
## Your BSN is just the beginning
Explore education goals that can prepare you for additional nursing career opportunities that require master’s level nursing degrees.
#### MSN programs
Position yourself after your BSN for clinical nurse leadership positions with an online master’s nursing degree.
[Explore MSN programs](/online-nursing-degrees/masters.html)
#### Nursing Bridge program
Apply an unrelated bachelor’s degree to a nursing master’s degree.
[Explore the Bridge program](/online-nursing-degrees/nurse-bridge-program.html)
Jessica C. | MSN
Jessica C. | MSN
“
We are preparing the next generation of nurses to make a difference in the lives of patients, their families and the community.”
**Ralene Brooks, PhD, RN**Dean, College of Nursing
[Learn more](/about/academic-leadership/dean-raelene-brooks.html)
## Cost and savings
### Paying for school
Tuition is based on number of credit hours per course. Courses are typically 3 credits, but can range from 1-6 credits. Costs do not include savings opportunities like transfer credits and scholarships.
[Learn about cost of attendance](/tuition-financial-aid/cost-of-attendance.html#bachelor-nursing-non-cbe)
### Undergrad cost per course
$1,220 / course
Cost breakdown
Cost per credit
Credits per course
Resource fee
**$350**
x3
+ $170
---
Estimated cost per course
$1,220
**What affects the overall cost of my program?**
Your full program cost can vary by:
- **Savings opportunities.** Your cost could be reduced with eligible transfer credits, scholarships, employer discounts and more. Students with eligible credits and relevant experience on average saved $11K and 1 year off their undergraduate degree at University of Phoenix.
With our Tuition Guarantee, you pay one flat, affordable rate from the moment you enroll to the day you graduate from your program.
**Discover ways to save time and money on your degree with our Savings Explorer® tool:**
[Go to Savings Explorer®](https://www.phoenix.edu/cost-savings)[Explore scholarships](/tuition-financial-aid/scholarships.html)
---
[Learn about cost of attendance](/tuition-financial-aid/cost-of-attendance.html#bachelor-nursing-non-cbe)
### Other ways to save on time and tuition
Because we believe everyone deserves an affordable education, we work hard to help our students achieve one. Here’s a few ways you can save time, save money and avoid starting from scratch.
#### Transfer credits
Your prior eligible college credits can lower your cost and help you graduate sooner. As a transfer-friendly university, we accept eligible credits from 5,000+ accredited institutions.
[Transfer your credits](/tuition-financial-aid/transfer-credits.html)
#### Employer tuition benefits
Are you employed? Check to see if your employer has an alliance agreement with us for education benefits. This can help you save money while gaining skills that could apply to your job.
[Check employer benefits](/tuition-financial-aid/employer-tuition-benefits.html)
#### Credit for life experience
We look at all your relevant experience, from parenting to past jobs, to help you get the college credits you deserve. For every 3 credits earned, shave 5 weeks off your degree.
[Earn college credit](/tuition-financial-aid/prior-learning-assessment.html)
#### Alumni savings
Are you a Phoenix alum? If so, you’re eligible for special tuition rates and can save up to $2,880 on a bachelor’s degree. You can also save with an alumni scholarship.
[Save with exclusive rates](/tuition-financial-aid/alumni-offer.html)
#### Military savings
If you’re an active-duty service member in the U.S. Armed Forces or an eligible spouse or dependent, you may be eligible for a lower, military tuition rate and can save on tuition.
[Get military savings](/military.html)
#### National testing providers
Do you have expertise in a specific subject? Earn college credit based on your performance on national, standardized tests to save time and money on tuition.
[Take tests for credit](/tuition-financial-aid/prior-learning-assessment/national-testing-programs.html)
#### We can help you get started
Chat with an experienced advisor who can guide you through tuition, financial aid, scholarships, transfer credits and more.
[Request info](https://www.phoenix.edu/request/request-information)PreviousNext
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Budget & borrow
### How to pay for college
Paying for school can be intimidating, but we’re here to help you make sense of it. Our finance advisors can walk you through your options like federal financial aid and savings opportunities to minimize your debt. Plus, we can help you figure out your financial plan.
[Explore federal financial aid](/tuition-financial-aid/federal-financial-aid.html)
## Faster pathways for ADN students
### 3+1 transfer pathway
Associate degree in nursing students can take 3 years of general course requirements at a participating community college and complete a bachelor’s degree in a little over one year at University of Phoenix. Transfer up to 87 credits and save $144 on every 3-credit course.
[Learn about 3+1 transfer pathway](/alliance/transferpathways.html?current=TransferPathways#form4)
### Concurrent Enrollment Program (CEP)
You can start RN to BSN upper-division nursing courses at University of Phoenix while finishing your associate degree in nursing with one of our alliance community colleges.
[Learn about our CEP program](/alliance/transferpathways.html?current=CEP#form2)
---
## Why choose us?
### Where you earn your degree matters
#### Career-relevant skills
Every five weeks, you can develop career-relevant skills, track your progress in each class and showcase your achievements using your personal skills profile.
[Learn about skills](/online-degrees/skills-aligned-learning.html)
#### Real-world faculty
Your instructors know what works in the real world. As leaders in the field, they bring a hands-on perspective and practical knowledge to the classroom.
[Meet our faculty](/about/faculty.html)
#### Flexible learning + support
Balance it all — work, family and school — with a university built for busy adults like you. Plus, get personal support by phone, chat or email — day or night.
[Learn about flexibility](/life-as-a-phoenix/time-management.html)
#### Career Services for Life® commitment
Because your career never stands still, active students get access to career services and resources, from your first class to graduation and beyond, at no added cost.
[Learn about career services](/career-services.html)
“
There were times when my goal seemed so far off, but I did it.”
**Dawn Nolan Kerrigan (RN to BSN 2014)**
[Dawn's journey](https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumna-dawn-nolan-kerrigan.html)
## Frequently asked questions about online RN to BSN degree
### What’s an RN to BSN degree and what does it entail?
The RN to BSN degree online at University of Phoenix is a post-licensure education program. You can also transfer an associate degree in nursing (ADN), if applicable, to complete the program faster.
Our bachelor’s in nursing program includes 11 core courses in topics such as health information technology for nursing, research outcomes management for the practicing nurse, healthcare policy and public health.
### Is a BSN the same as an RN?
No, a bachelor’s degree in nursing is not the same as a registered nurse (RN). A BSN is an educational degree in nursing. An RN designation may only be used after completing all requirements and obtaining licensure by a state board of nursing as a registered nurse. If you’re an RN, you can pursue a BSN degree for expanded skills and greater career opportunities in your field.
### How long does it take to get a BSN degree?
The length of time to complete your bachelor’s in nursing program varies depending on the nursing program you choose and your educational history.
- Our traditional RN to BSN degree online can be completed in as little as 14 months for students who transfer in an associate degree in nursing (ADN). RNs without an ADN transfer will be awarded 40 total credits and may complete their degree in 2.5 years.
- Our [competency-based RN to BSN program](/online-nursing-degrees/rn-to-bsn-competency-based-bachelors.html) can be completed in as little as 12 months but requires at least one year’s experience as an RN and is self-paced, independent learning.
### Is the RN to BSN completely online?
The RN to BSN coursework is completed online and paired with on-site direct-care clinical hours. These in-person clinical experiences take place in approved public health settings, which may include your workplace or in your local community.
These clinical experiences help students apply nursing knowledge in real healthcare and community settings as part of the online RN to BSN program requirements.
### Can I work as an RN while pursuing my BSN degree?
Yes, our RN to BSN degree online is designed with the working registered nurse (RN) in mind. You’ll take one course at a time, every five weeks, and all the instructional information is delivered on your schedule. This is important because we understand nurses like you are likely working around the clock and need to be able to complete assignments at a time that’s convenient for you and your schedule.
### Are internships or clinical experience required for the online RN to BSN degree?
While internships are not required, direct-care clinical hours are a part of the core nursing curriculum. The online RN to BSN program requires 90 direct-care clinical hours.
The direct-care clinical hours must be completed in person based in community health settings. These are in addition to the indirect care clinical hours completed in other courses.
Students can review the[Nursing Student Handbook (PDF)](/content/dam/edu/degrees/doc/program-details/nursing-program-handbook-uopx.pdf)for additional details about course alignment and clinical expectations.
### Where do RN to BSN clinical experiences take place?
Clinical experiences for the online RN to BSN degree are completed in approved healthcare or community-based settings connected to course requirements. There are many pre-approved sites or students may seek approval of the facility of their own choice.
The clinical experiences in the RN to BSN program focus on health promotion, disease prevention and public health principles for individuals, families, populations and communities.
### Do online RN to BSN students need to come to campus?
The online RN to BSN program does not require an on-campus presence.
Required clinical learning is completed through approved site-based experiences in a student’s local community rather than campus attendance. Other program requirements are completed online.
### Can RN to BSN clinical experiences be completed close to home?
Many students pursuing the online RN to BSN degree can complete clinical experiences in approved healthcare or community settings within their local community.
A clinical coordinator helps students identify approved placement opportunities that meet program requirements and site availability.
## Articles related to the RN to BSN
- [Alternative Careers for Registered Nurses](/articles/nursing/alternative-careers-for-registered-nurses) — Career Support | October 03, 2023 • 7 minutes
- [What is the Nursing Code of Ethics?](/articles/nursing/what-is-the-nursing-code-of-ethics) — Online Degrees | January 10, 2022 • 4 Minutes
- [What Can You Do With a BSN?](/articles/nursing/what-can-you-do-with-a-bsn) — Online Degrees | March 10, 2026 • 8 minutes
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While widely available, not all programs are available to residents of all states. Please check with a University Enrollment Representative.
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