Top Online and Campus BSN Nursing Programs in Ohio

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If you’re interested in starting or advancing your career as a nurse, a BSN program in Ohio could be the right choice for you. Keep reading to learn more about the paths to a BSN and what it has to offer.

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Are you ready to jumpstart your healthcare career and transform lives while developing marketable professional skills? If you’re passionate about nursing and have your sights set on practicing in the great state of Ohio, you’ve come to the right place. This page is here to help you navigate the diverse academic pathways toward a bachelor’s degree in nursing.

As you dive into this page, you’ll become familiar with the nuances of Ohio’s top BSN programs, the unique training options they offer, and how they can serve your unique needs. We’ll walk you through the flexibility of online learning, the essential value of clinical experiences, the importance of finding a program that offers student support, and much more.

Whether you’re a high school student eager to begin your nursing education, a college graduate seeking a purposeful change, or a licensed RN interested in expanding your professional opportunities, Ohio’s nursing landscape has a program for you. Let’s start by reviewing the best BSN programs in Ohio and what these standout programs can do for you.

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Ohio State University

Columbus, Ohio

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Public

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Ohio University

Athens, Ohio

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Walsh University

North Canton, Ohio

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Private

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Public

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University of Cincinnati

Cincinnati, Ohio

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Public

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Ohio University-Eastern Campus

Saint Clairsville, Ohio

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Public

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Public

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Public

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University of Toledo

Toledo, Ohio

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Public

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Public

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Ursuline College

Pepper Pike, Ohio

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Private

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Public

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Xavier University

Cincinnati, Ohio

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Private

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Cleveland State University

Cleveland, Ohio

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Public

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Youngstown State University

Youngstown, Ohio

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Public

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Public

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Kettering College

Kettering, Ohio

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Private

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Bowling Green State University

Bowling Green, Ohio

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Public

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Defiance College

Defiance, Ohio

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Private

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Notre Dame College

Cleveland, Ohio

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Private

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University of Rio Grande

Rio Grande, Ohio

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Private

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A Look at the Benefits of BSN Programs in Ohio

Exploring the benefits of BSN programs in Ohio reveals the advantages students gain throughout their educational journey. From enriched clinical experiences to well-connected professional networks, the best programs offer a supportive environment with countless opportunities. Continue reading as we dive into the benefits of BSN programs in Ohio and how they can help shape your nursing career.

Access to Strong Professional Network

Professors, mentors, and alumni of Ohio colleges and universities offer graduates access to a robust professional network. This network can be instrumental in finding job opportunities, gaining insights into the healthcare industry, and receiving vital career guidance. Connecting with individuals in your network enhances your post-graduation prospects while fostering a supportive personal and professional community.

Broad Range of Clinical Opportunities

BSN students in Ohio benefit from hands-on clinical experience in diverse healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, medical centers, and community health organizations. This essential exposure offers invaluable insights into various patient populations and medical situations. Clinical experiences also prepare students for real-world challenges while enriching their understanding of healthcare best practices and patient care.

Wide Array of Prestigious Nursing Schools

Standout Ohio BSN programs provide students with top facilities, abundant student services, and post-graduation career prospects. The best Ohio BSN programs ensure a comprehensive education while enabling students to excel in their nursing careers by leveraging clinical opportunities, reputable faculty, and strong institutional connections.

Program Checklist: Features to Look for in an Ohio BSN Program

Determining which Ohio BSN program is best for you requires careful consideration of multiple essential factors. From accreditation to curriculum structure, these elements can significantly impact both educational experiences and professional prospects. Read on to review our program checklist and see what you should prioritize when researching prospective BSN programs in the Buckeye State.

Accreditation

Accreditation speaks volumes about a BSN program’s credibility. Think of it as a program’s official stamp of approval. Accreditation assures students, and their future employers, that their education meets established standards. Choosing an accredited BSN program ensures a robust curriculum and equips students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the nursing field.

Format That Fits Your Needs

Finding a program format that aligns with your individual needs is crucial. Whether you thrive in a traditional classroom or need to manage your busy schedule with flexible online learning, selecting the right BSN format can enhance your educational experience. This personalized approach can improve student outcomes, enabling you to effectively balance coursework with your other obligations.

Student Support Resources

BSN programs are rigorous, and having a robust support system is vital. Access to resources such as academic advising, career guidance, and mental health counseling empowers students to overcome a challenging academic environment and thrive both personally and professionally. The best Ohio BSN programs offer comprehensive student services that foster resilience and, ultimately, lead to a successful and fulfilling nursing career.

Types of BSN Programs in Ohio

BSN programs abound in the Buckeye State, with specific options for career changers, first-time students, and current nurses looking to upgrade their credentials. To help find the best program for your needs, we provide an in-depth look at each type of BSN program and who they serve.

Accelerated BSN Programs

Accelerated BSN (ABSN) programs provide the perfect pathway if you already hold a bachelor’s degree in an unrelated subject but want to become a registered nurse. ABSNs can take as few as 12 months to complete and use your existing general education credits as the foundation for your new degree. Most of these programs are offered in-person, but you may be able to find a hybrid option that allows you to complete your theoretical coursework online.

Examples of Ohio Nursing Schools with This Program

Direct Entry BSN Programs

Direct entry BSN programs are designed for recent high school graduates and incoming freshmen set on earning their bachelor’s degree and becoming RNs. Instead of spending your first two years meeting general education requirements, you can dive straight into nursing coursework. Direct entry BSNs require four years of full-time study and include theoretical and clinical components.

Examples of Ohio Nursing Schools with This Program

LPN to BSN Programs

Many licensed practical nurses decide to pursue a BSN after working as licensed practical nurses for several years in order to take on more responsibility and start earning higher salaries. Most bridge programs take between two and three years to complete and build on the knowledge you gained during your LPN diploma or degree, and your invaluable work experience. Most require students to hold an active and unencumbered LPN license to be admitted.

Examples of Ohio Nursing Schools with This Program

Online BSN Programs

Online BSN programs don’t exist for first-time nursing students with no existing clinical experience, given that these components must take place in person. Only learners with an active and unencumbered RN license can take advantage of a fully online BSN. Still, these programs try to provide as much flexibility as possible by allowing all theory-based to be done via distance learning. This is also the case for general education credits.

Examples of Ohio Nursing Schools with This Program

RN to BSN Programs

If you previously completed a nursing diploma or associate degree in nursing and currently work as an RN, an RN to BSN may be a great way for you to upgrade your credentials and potentially earn a higher salary. These bridge programs usually take about two years to complete, with many schools offering fully online options. To be admitted, you’ll need an active and unencumbered RN license.

Examples of Ohio Nursing Schools with This Program

Traditional BSN Programs

Traditional BSNs represent the most common type of BSN in that they cater to first-time college students who recently earned a GED or high school diploma. They require no prerequisites and take four years to complete. As part of these degrees, plan to complete both general education and nursing coursework. Traditional BSNs typically exist as campus-based programs, but you may find a few options that allow you to complete non-clinical classes online.

Examples of Ohio Nursing Schools with This Program

FAQs About BSN Programs in Ohio

With so many BSN programs on offer, you probably have questions about how to choose the best option and what you should take into consideration when making your decision. We gathered some of the most common questions would-be students have about these programs and provide helpful answers below.

Are there online or part-time options available for BSN programs in Ohio?

With so many colleges and universities offering BSN programs in Ohio, you can find a format that meets your lifestyle needs. Part-time options, such as those offered at Ohio State University, exist if you want to balance work and personal obligations with schoolwork. Meanwhile, online programs such as the RN to BSN at the University of Toledo exist for students who previously completed clinical requirements.

Can I transfer credits from another institution?

It depends, but frequently you can. When looking at transfer options, it’s crucial that your current institution holds proper accreditation through the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission on Education in Nursing (ACEN) and approval from the Ohio Board of Nursing. If your program meets these requirements, the credits you already completed should transfer to a new school. When in doubt, contact the registrar of the new school to learn what will–and won’t–transfer over.

Do online BSN programs in Ohio require clinical experience?

All online BSN programs in Ohio require clinical experience, as that’s what allows them to be online in the first place. The reason so many BSNs require in-person components is that clinicals cannot be done online. For an online RN to BSN, admission requirements always include holding an active and unencumbered RN license as well as graduating from an ADN or RN diploma program that includes clinical training.

What are my career prospects after finishing my BSN in Ohio?

After earning your BSN in Ohio, you can select from several professional roles. While RN positions remain the most common, this credential also qualifies you for positions as a nurse educator, clinical research nurse, nurse recruiter, or nurse informaticist, among others. For RNs, prospects look strong. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), jobs in Ohio are projected to grow by more than 7% in the coming years—we’ll discuss this in greater detail below.

Job and Salary Outlook for Ohio BSN Nurses

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Area 10th Percentile Median 90th Percentile
Ohio $64,480 $79,940 $105,380
Akron, OH $65,330 $79,770 $97,250
Canton-Massillon, OH $63,150 $77,390 $92,690
Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN $65,280 $80,810 $109,120
Cleveland-Elyria, OH $69,210 $80,240 $105,380
Columbus, OH $66,300 $81,020 $99,770
Dayton, OH $65,050 $79,840 $99,350
Lima, OH $63,490 $73,950 $93,200
Mansfield, OH $62,010 $74,280 $90,550
Springfield, OH $60,000 $78,970 $96,200
Toledo, OH $63,910 $78,280 $95,030
Youngstown-Warren-Boardman, OH-PA $59,960 $74,470 $90,390

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.

Area Curr. Jobs Proj. Jobs New Jobs Growth % Avg. Ann. Openings
United States 3,172,500 3,349,900 177,400 5.60% 193,100
Ohio 131,390 135,860 4,470 3.40% 7,630

Source: Projections Central

Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.

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