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

If you’re looking to advance your nursing education, North Carolina’s online RN to BSN programs can help you take the next step. These programs enable you to earn your bachelor’s degree while building on your existing nursing knowledge and experience — all in a relatively short time. Learn how these programs work, what you’ll study, and the answers to common questions prospective students just like you have. With EduMed’s expert guidance, you’ll learn what it takes to succeed both in- and out-of-school.

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North Carolina RN to BSN Programs: A Comparison

Online RN to BSN programs can make earning your degree convenient. But it’s still important to understand what you’re signing up for. Generally, these programs have coursework that you can take completely online, so there’s enough flexibility to integrate your studies into your busy schedule.

However, in some cases, programs may require that students come on campus. For example, some programs are delivered on a hybrid basis. You will be required to complete coursework both online and in person. In other cases, classes are entirely virtual, but there is a clinical component you need to finish at a healthcare facility.

Also, schools may differ in how long you have to graduate. Since many schools aim to maximize flexibility, you may be able to complete a program on a part-time basis, which is great if you’re concerned about their juggling your professional and personal responsibilities with your education.

RN-to-BSN Completion Program — University of North Carolina at Charlotte

The RN-to-BSN Completion Program at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte provides a great deal of flexibility so working nurses can continue their education. The program is delivered entirely online with no campus visit required, so you don’t have to worry about traveling back and forth to the school at all. Additionally, there are no scheduled class meeting times. This will allow you to view course content during the days and times that work best for you. No matter when you do classwork, it’s housed in the Canvas learning management system. It allows you to watch lecturers, submit assignments, and connect with your professors and peers.

Duration: 12 months

Mode: Online

Cost: $158.83 per credit in-state; $794.38 per credit out-of-state

Admissions Requirements:

  • An RN license
  • Completion of prerequisites
  • At least a 2.0 grade point average

Curriculum:

  • Concepts of Professional Nursing Science
  • Issues in Cultural Health
  • Health Assessment for Nurses
  • Aging and Health
  • Information Technology: Applications in Healthcare
  • Leadership in Nursing Practice
  • Community Health Nursing
  • Design and Coordination of Care
  • Research in Nursing Practice
  • Enhancing Clinical Judgment

FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:

RN to BSN Program — Fayetteville State University

Fayetteville State University’s RN to BSN program helps students boost their marketability through a curriculum that focuses on evidence-based nursing practice, health assessments, emergency care, and community health strategies. Additionally, students are taught about current trends and issues in nursing. They can stay abreast of the latest developments to help them enhance their work performance. To reinforce classroom learning, students are required to participate in clinical hours that provide hands-on experience. You can also show off your knowledge in a project-based assignment.

Outside of class, you can get support from the school’s Student Nursing Association. This is where nurses come together to network, mentor each other, and participate in the community.

Duration: 12 months

Mode: Online

Cost: $41.67 per credit in-state; $208.34 per credit out-of-state

Admissions Requirements:

  • A minimum 2.75 grade point average overall and a minimum 2.8 grade point average in math and science coursework
  • Completion of all prerequisites with at least a C grade
  • Successfully taking the Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam

Curriculum:

  • Transition to Professional Nursing
  • Transcultural Nursing
  • Health Assessment Across the Life Span
  • Pathophysiology
  • Nursing Research and Theory (RN to BSN)
  • Nursing Leadership Perspectives and Trends in Contemporary Nursing Practice
  • Contemporary Supportive Community Nursing
  • Professional Nursing Issues in Practice
  • Senior Practicum
  • Gerontological Nursing
  • Nursing and Women’s Health

RN to BSN Degree Program — Appalachian State University

Appalachian State University’s online RN to BSN program has flexible options that allow you to choose how many hours you dedicate to your studies based on your schedule. In the one-year option with three semesters, you can expect to spend 15 to 20 hours per week on your education. If this schedule doesn’t work for you, there is a six-semester option that requires 8 to 10 hours per week of coursework, and an eight-semester version of the program that only requires 5 to 8 hours per week.

No matter which variation you choose, you’ll be immersed in a collaborative environment where you can form camaraderie with other students. You will enhance your decision-making skills, as well as learn best practices for delivering care in diverse communities and leadership and research skills needed to advance.

Duration: 12 to 36 months

Mode: Online

Cost: $176.75 per credit in-state; $911.46 per credit out-of-state

Admissions Requirements:

  • A nursing associate degree or diploma
  • An unencumbered nursing license
  • 2.50 cumulative grade point average
  • 30 hours of major nursing coursework completed

Curriculum:

  • Nursing Informatics
  • Concepts of Professional Nursing
  • Health Assessment
  • Nursing Care of Older Adults
  • Nursing Care of Communities
  • Nursing Leadership and Management
  • Professional Nursing Synthesis
  • Nursing Research

Quick Guide: FAQs for RN to BSN Students

It’s natural to still have questions about RN to BSN programs as there is a lot for prospective students to know. To help you further explore this path, read on to discover answers to some of the frequently asked questions about curriculum, timeframes, financial aid, and more.

What additional nursing skills and knowledge will I gain in an RN to BSN program in North Carolina?

An RN to BSN program in North Carolina can help prepare you for career advancement opportunities in numerous ways, particularly management, leadership, research, or teaching roles. For example, if you want to become an administrator, having a bachelor’s degree will prepare you for a management position at a variety of healthcare facilities. This is because the curriculum is made up of classes that focus on developing leadership, teamwork, and high-level communication skills managers need.

Getting your BSN degree could be invaluable if you plan on pursuing a graduate program to specialize in a specific nursing area. This is because these programs build on the knowledge you already have, so your clinical skills increase, making you a good candidate for a graduate-level degree.

In North Carolina, how long does completing an RN to BSN program take?

Completing an RN to BSN program can take anywhere from a year to four years, depending on the program, schedule, and whether or not you’ve already completed any prerequisites. The North Carolina Board of Nursing estimates it takes four years to earn your BSN degree.

However, several RN to BSN programs in North Carolina that are strictly online can be finished in a year if you enroll as a full-time student. Others estimate it would take two years to complete an online program for part-time students. For example, the University of North Carolina at Pembroke offers accelerated online courses in eight-week-long sessions—meaning you can complete them in just 12 months. The program could take about two years to finish if you choose a self-paced, part-time learning option.

Can I get financial aid to help pay for my RN to BSN program in North Carolina?

Yes, there are several places you can get financial aid for an RN to BSN program. As you look at your options, a good way to start is by checking in with the schools you’re interested in attending. Generally, colleges and universities will have scholarships and grants available for students, and, in some cases, they are specifically offered to nursing students. Similarly, some employers may offer scholarships to help promote the profession.

Also, The Great 100 Nurses offers a scholarship to nursing students across the state. Each year, nursing schools statewide are randomly selected as scholarship recipients. The school then selects a student based on certain criteria.

What jobs can I qualify for with a BSN?

When you complete an RN to BSN program in North Carolina, you can qualify for a variety of jobs that may not be open to you with a nursing diploma or associate degree. Some of these positions are clinical in nature, such as emergency room roles, labor and delivery nurses, and plastic surgery jobs. Also, you’ll be able to pursue some non-nursing careers for nurses, such as nurse educator, health researcher, pharmaceutical sales representative, and health writer positions.

If you’re interested in starting your own business, a bachelor’s degree can help you do it. If you want to become a nurse consultant, you’re also expected to have at least a bachelor’s-level education to attract clientele.

What should I look for in an RN to BSN degree program in North Carolina?

One way to find quality RN to BSN programs in North Carolina is to look for a program’s average NCLEX-RN pass rate. Some programs, such as Appalachian State University, list their pass rates on the website. The North Carolina Board of Nursing also publishes yearly reports listing a program’s average pass rate.

Nursing school accreditation is also important. Look to see if the nursing program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

You might also want to check if the nursing program is approved by the state Board of Nursing. You can access a list of nursing programs on the board’s website.

North Carolina’s RN vs. BSN Job and Pay Outlook

Going back to school is a huge investment of time and money, so you likely want to ensure that you'll make a good return on your investment. The good news is, these RN to BSN degrees are entirely worth your time and money.

In terms of salary, your earning potential will increase when you get a bachelor's degree. In North Carolina, nurses who have an associate degree make $72,996 per year. When you complete a bachelor's degree, the average salary goes up to $75,423 annually.

That's not all, as having a bachelor's degree in nursing opens up several opportunities. You can pursue jobs that you don't currently qualify for. If you want to remain involved in direct patient care, some of the options for jobs include labor and delivery, medical-surgical, plastic surgery, and emergency room nurse positions. However, you can have an impact in other ways as well. If you're interested in non-nursing careers for nurses, some of the positions you can qualify for with a bachelor's degree include nurse recruiter, pharmaceutical sales representative, and insurance specialist roles.

Best Online RN to BSN Schools in North Carolina

There are several RN to BSN programs to choose from in North Carolina, and while they all offer the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s degree, they’re not all the same. As a result, it’s important to be sure to shop around. We have compiled the following list of the best options around the state so you can make an informed decision. Review the rankings below to get an idea of what these schools have to offer and how they provide the services and education that students want most, so take a look at the methodology for how we picked these schools. Read below to see which schools made their way onto our list as the top choices for students like you.

UNC Greensboro offers an online RN to BSN program for registered nurses with an active, unrestricted North Carolina nursing license. The fully online, asynchronous program can be completed in one year, including summer. It emphasizes professional nursing practice, evidence-based care, and interdisciplinary teamwork. The program is accredited by the CCNE and offers cohorts starting in both the Fall and Spring. It prepares graduates for diverse healthcare roles and meets North Carolina licensure requirements.

Why We Selected University of North Carolina at Greensboro:

  • The program offers flexible, 100% online learning tailored for working nurses.
  • UNCG provides affordable tuition rates and financial aid options to support students.
  • The program is nationally recognized for excellence in nursing education, ensuring quality preparation.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$4,422
  • Average Institutional Aid$3,140
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course88%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award59%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
2

East Carolina University

Greenville, North Carolina

East Carolina University offers an online RN to BSN program that can be completed in 16 months over four semesters. The program is designed for working nurses, offering competitive tuition rates and 100% online classes. It is CCNE accredited and recognized as a National League for Nursing Center of Excellence. The curriculum focuses on advancing nursing careers through a flexible, supportive online community. Admission requires an active RN license and completion of specific prerequisites.

Why We Selected East Carolina University:

  • East Carolina University's RN to BSN program offers a fully online format for flexible learning.
  • The program provides advanced placement status for prior education and professional experiences.
  • ECU's nursing programs benefit from faculty expertise and a high NCLEX-RN pass rate of 98%.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$4,452
  • Average Institutional Aid$3,766
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course74%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award66%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio18/1
3
The University of North Carolina Wilmington offers a 100% online RN to BSN program that can be completed in as few as 12 months. The program requires 30 credit hours and costs $6,334.20 for in-state residents. It prepares students for roles such as case management nurse, travel nurse, and ICU nurse, emphasizing leadership, research, and community health. Admission requires a current RN license and a minimum 2.4 GPA. Multiple start dates are available each year.

Why We Selected University of North Carolina Wilmington:

  • The UNCW online RN to BSN program offers an accelerated completion option in as few as 12 months.
  • The program integrates clinical practice experiences into course assignments, eliminating required clinical hours.
  • Experienced nursing educators provide personalized support, enhancing student success and career advancement opportunities.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$4,443
  • Average Institutional Aid$3,634
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course73%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award72%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
4

Fayetteville State University

Fayetteville, North Carolina

The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) at Fayetteville State University is a 16-month intensive program designed for individuals with a bachelor’s degree in another field. The program combines foundational and specialized nursing courses, including Nursing Research, Pharmacology, and Adult Health, with extensive clinical experiences. Tuition is approximately $26,000. Admission requires a minimum GPA of 3.0, professional recommendations, and an interview. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam and pursue careers as registered nurses. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring rigorous standards and strong career outcomes in various healthcare settings.

Why We Selected Fayetteville State University:

  • Fayetteville State University's nursing program offers a high NCLEX pass rate of 90%.
  • The program provides a hands-on learning environment with realistic simulators for practical patient care training.
  • The MSN program focuses on patient safety and quality, preparing graduates for leadership roles in healthcare.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$2,982
  • Average Institutional Aid$2,719
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course91%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award34%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
The RN to BSN Completion Program at UNC Charlotte is designed for associate degree or diploma-prepared registered nurses. It requires 31 credits and can be completed in approximately one year. Admission requires a current unencumbered RN license, a GPA of 2.0 or better in transferable courses, and a minimum grade of “C” in all required nursing prerequisites. The program is structured into three semesters, focusing on professional nursing concepts, health assessment, and community health nursing. Tuition is approximately $5,859 for in-state students. Upon completion, graduates enhance their career prospects in leadership roles, education, or advanced practice nursing. The program emphasizes flexibility, making it suitable for working professionals.

Why We Selected University of North Carolina at Charlotte:

  • The UNC Charlotte RN-to-BSN program offers flexible online learning with no campus visits required.
  • The program provides opportunities for research collaboration with experienced faculty, enhancing professional development.
  • Graduates benefit from strong employer partnerships, including major healthcare organizations like Novant Health and Atrium Health.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$3,812
  • Average Institutional Aid$4,377
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course70%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award64%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio20/1
6

Carolinas College of Health Sciences

Charlotte, North Carolina

The RN-to-BSN program at Carolinas College of Health Sciences is designed for working registered nurses seeking career advancement. It requires completing additional credits in general education and upper-level nursing courses. The program offers flexible scheduling, allowing students to work full-time while pursuing their degree. Financial aid options are available, including potential cost savings for Atrium Health teammates. Admissions typically require a TEAS score at or above the 50th percentile and a cumulative GPA of 2.25. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles and have greater career opportunities. The program focuses on developing skills in evidence-based practice, population health, and interprofessional collaboration. It provides a pathway for professional advancement and opens doors to varied employment opportunities and specialty certifications.

Why We Selected Carolinas College of Health Sciences:

  • Atrium Health teammates can receive financial assistance through loan agreements and educational reimbursement programs.
  • The program offers flexible online learning, allowing students to complete their BSN in as few as 12 to 18 months.
  • Graduates benefit from strong job placement opportunities due to the college's affiliation with Atrium Health.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$13,584
  • Average Institutional AidN/A
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course43%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award100%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio6/1
7

University of Mount Olive

Mount Olive, North Carolina

The University of Mount Olive’s RN to BSN program is designed for active and unencumbered licensed registered nurses. It consists of 49 semester credit hours of upper-level nursing, technical writing, and healthcare management courses. The program enhances clinical skills and leadership knowledge, preparing graduates for roles such as clinical nurse leaders, nurse educators, and management positions. Career pathways also include advanced practice opportunities or specialized nursing fields. The program aligns with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Essentials, enabling graduates to practice within complex healthcare systems. While specific details on cost and financial aid are not provided, prospective students can explore scholarship opportunities. Admissions require an active RN license, and the program is part of the University’s strategic plan to serve nursing professionals with a flexible and accessible educational environment.

Why We Selected University of Mount Olive:

  • The University of Mount Olive's nursing program offers a state-of-the-art $1 million Nursing Simulation Laboratory.
  • The program provides a flexible format, including a fast-track option for commuters, accommodating various schedules.
  • Under Dr. Nancy Mimm's leadership, students gain applied knowledge in nursing and public health, preparing them for advocacy roles.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$21,618
  • Average Institutional Aid$10,547
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course76%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award53%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio14/1
8

Appalachian State University

Boone, North Carolina

Appalachian State University’s RN to BSN program is designed for working nurses with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Diploma in Nursing. The program allows students to complete their degree in one to three years, with a total of 60 semester hours required, including 30 hours awarded for prior learning. Admission requires a cumulative GPA of 2.5, a current RN license, and completion of prerequisite courses. The curriculum focuses on informatics, leadership, research, and community-based nursing, preparing graduates for advanced roles in healthcare. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, ensuring high standards of education. Financial aid options are available, and students can benefit from flexible scheduling to balance work and study.

Why We Selected Appalachian State University:

  • The program offers flexible completion options within one to three years.
  • The curriculum includes specialized courses like Nursing Informatics and Care of Older Adults.
  • Clinical experiences are integrated into each course, enhancing practical skills.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$4,242
  • Average Institutional Aid$3,299
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course58%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award72%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
9

Western Carolina University

Cullowhee, North Carolina

The RN to BSN program at Western Carolina University is designed for registered nurses seeking to enhance their education and career opportunities. The program requires a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 and a current, unrestricted RN license. It involves completing 60 hours of transferable non-nursing courses and fulfilling program prerequisites. The program can be completed in four semesters. Admissions require acceptance into Western Carolina University’s Distance Learning Program. Career outcomes include leadership roles and preparation for graduate studies, with a strong demand from healthcare employers for BSN graduates. Financial aid options are available, but specific costs are not detailed in the provided information. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the North Carolina Board of Nursing.

Why We Selected Western Carolina University:

  • The program offers scholarships to both undergraduate and graduate nursing students.
  • Western Carolina University provides reduced tuition through the NC Promise program for in-state students.
  • Prospective nursing students can explore employer-based scholarships for future employment opportunities.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$1,000
  • Average Institutional Aid$2,310
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course53%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award62%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
10
The RN-to-BSN program at Cabarrus College of Health Sciences is designed for working registered nurses seeking career advancement. It offers flexible full-time and part-time options, with courses structured in five-week blocks. The program focuses on leadership skills, population health, and service, preparing graduates for collaborative roles in healthcare. Admission requires an associate degree or diploma in nursing, a minimum GPA of 2.5, and a current RN license. Financial aid and generous loans are available. Credits are awarded for prior nursing education and experience. The program opens doors to varied employment opportunities and professional certifications. It is led by nationally recognized faculty, offering a fast-track application process for Atrium Health affiliates. Graduates are well-positioned for career progression and professional growth in nursing specialties.

Why We Selected Cabarrus College of Health Sciences:

  • The RN-to-BSN program offers flexible online learning with no clinical requirements.
  • The program provides credits for prior nursing experience and education, enhancing career advancement opportunities.
  • It offers a fast-track application process for Atrium Health teammates and alumni, streamlining entry into the program.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$13,850
  • Average Institutional Aid$1,388
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course72%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award48%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio7/1
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Kenya McCullum AUTHOR

Kenya McCullum has been a professional writer and researcher for over twenty years and has written hundreds of feature-length articles, guidebooks, and other in-depth content. She has tackled various healthcare topics, such as women's health, fitness, mental health, addiction, and nutrition, as well as issues providers face when delivering care. Also, McCullum has extensive experience writing about higher education, online learning, continuing education, and professional development. Throughout her career, she has interviewed numerous leaders in the healthcare and education sectors. She has a master’s degree in communication and a bachelor’s degree in English.

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