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

If you’re an RN in Ohio looking to advance your career, consider pursuing your BSN online. Going from RN to BSN will teach you specialized and advanced nursing skills, while studying online will help save you time and money while earning your new qualification. Use this guide from EduMed to explore some of the best online RN to BSN programs in Ohio and find the one that’s right for you.

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Online RN to BSN Education in Ohio

Before you begin applying for your online RN to BSN in Ohio, you’ll have a few options to consider. There are a wide variety of options in the state, including both fully online and hybrid programs. You’ll need to do your research, including taking cost into account, as well as course schedule, options for full time and part time study, and how long the program will take to complete. It can all feel a little overwhelming, so below we’ve profiled three different high-quality online RN to BSN programs in Ohio to give you an idea of what you can expect, and help get you started in your research:

RN to BSN Program — Ohio State University

Ohio State University’s online RN to BSN program can be completed through 30 credits of coursework. The asynchronous classes allow you to complete the course on your schedule. The program emphasizes leadership, community health, and evidence-based practice, preparing nurses for diverse healthcare settings and further graduate studies. In addition to required courses in multicultural healthcare, leadership, and informatics, you will be able to choose at least one elective as part of your program. Elective options provide the opportunity to specialize, with approved courses in epidemiology, nursing in school settings, health and wellness, and more.

Duration: 1 year

Mode: Online

Cost: $16,997.40

Admissions Requirements:

  • Online application
  • Associate degree or diploma in nursing
  • Active RN license
  • GPA of 2.0 or higher

Curriculum:

  • Foundations and Contemporary Issues for RNs
  • Cultural Competence in Healthcare: US and Global Contexts
  • Concepts in Community Health Nursing
  • Evolving Concepts in Leadership and Management
  • Health Care Informatics
  • Interprofessional Concepts
  • Evidence Based Practice: Transforming Healthcare
  • Required Nursing elective Course

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Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree in Nursing for Registered Nurses — Kent State University

At Kent State University, you have the opportunity to complete your BSN through their Nursing for Registered Nurses online BSN program. There are options for students to choose between full time and part time studies. This program is meant to total 120 credits, when including prerequisite courses and transfer credits from your associate degree in nursing. The minimum time to completion is roughly a year and a half, although part time students will take longer. In addition to your required courses, you will be asked to choose one nursing elective and one general elective, typically in your final semester.

Duration: 18 Months

Mode: Online

Cost: $19,580.4

Admissions Requirements:

  • Online application
  • Nursing diploma or associate degree
  • GPA of 2.0 or higher

Curriculum:

  • General Psychology
  • Introduction to Sociology
  • Flashes 101
  • Human Genetics or Elements of Genetics
  • Science of Human Nutrition
  • Information and Patient Care Technology for Healthcare Professionals
  • Concepts and Issues for Professional Nursing Practice
  • Health Promotion in Professional Nursing Practice
  • Population-Based Nursing for Professional Nursing Practice
  • Health Maintenance and Restoration for Professional Nursing Practice
  • Health Care Policy
  • Introduction to Evidence Based Practice for Registered Nurses
  • Capstone for Professional Nursing Practice

RN to BSN Program — University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati’s College of Nursing offers a fully online flexible RN to BSN program. The program, which can be completed with full or part time study, is designed for students who have already earned an associate degree in nursing, and can be completed alongside work as a nurse. Students will complete nine core nursing courses for a total of 27 credits, in addition to a nursing capstone project. Whether you choose full time or part time study, financial aid may be available in the case of students who have demonstrated financial need.

Duration: 8 months

Mode: Online

Cost: $13,976

Admissions Requirements:

  • Online application
  • Associate degree or diploma in nursing
  • GPA of 2.5 or higher
  • Application fee

Curriculum:

  • Health Issues of Vulnerable and Marginalized Populations
  • RN-BSN Informatics for Professional Nurses
  • RN-BSN Transition to Baccalaureate Education in Nursing
  • RN-BSN Scientific Basis for Professional Nursing Practice
  • RN-BSN Nurse as Professional Leader and Manager
  • RN-BSN Gerontological Nursing Practice
  • RN/BSN Senior Capstone
  • Learning with Technology
  • RN-BSN Focus on Community

Student Help Center: Common RN to BSN Questions Answered

It’s natural to have questions before making the time and financial commitment of applying to an online RN to BSN program in Ohio. In fact, most prospective students do. That’s why we’ve compiled some of the most commonly-asked questions and their answers for you to help you in your research:

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

In most cases, earning your BSN will help advance your career and improve the level of patient care you provide. An RN to BSN program enables nurses with an associate degree to elevate their knowledge and skill set through academic study and application of that study in their day-to-day work as a nurse. RN to BSN graduates will learn not only advanced clinical skills but also communication, leadership, patient evaluation, research, and management.

Further, according to Campaign for Action, while the number of nurses in Ohio with a BSN is rising, it’s still behind the national average. Having your BSN will help you stand out as a nurse in Ohio.

How long does it take to complete an RN to BSN program in Ohio?

The time it takes to complete your BSN will vary from school to school, and it will depend on the program’s flexibility, the number of courses you can take each semester, and the options the school offers. It will also depend on how much education you have. An entry-level BSN, designed for students without a degree, will take four years. However, RN to BSN degrees can be completed in a much shorter time. The University of Cincinnati allows BSN students to complete the program in as little as nine months. Students enrolled in Ohio University’s program can finish in under a year.

How affordable are RN to BSN programs in Ohio?

Costs vary from school to school but are generally affordable compared to traditional degrees. The cost per credit hour varies from $230 to $400 per hour, with credits needed to graduate ranging from 30-120. It is important to note that in programs that require a higher number of credit hours, it is likely that coursework from your RN program and/or associate degree will satisfy those credits.

Online RN to BSN programs are designed to give nurses the ability to complete their degrees while working. As they’re frequently offered online or in a hybrid format, students can enjoy a more affordable rate combined with flexibility for their educational journey.

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

As a potential RN to BSN student, several financial aid options are available to you to help offset the costs of pursuing your degree. Grants and scholarships are often awarded based on factors such as special interests, gender, financial need, academics, race, ethnicity, and more.

Many schools will provide scholarships directly through the school. For example, Ohio University offers a number of nursing scholarships. The Ohio Nurses Association has a list of available scholarships, as does the Ohio Health Care Association. Applying for federal student aid is also an option, which you can do by filling out the FAFSA.

What are the admission requirements for RN to BSN programs in Ohio?

Admission requirements will vary from school to school, but there are some that you can generally expect across all, or nearly all, RN to BSN programs in Ohio. For most programs, you’ll need an associate degree or diploma in nursing, an active, unencumbered RN license, and a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher. These are the admissions requirements of both Ohio University and Cleveland State University, although there may be other requirements depending on the school you’re considering. For instance, some programs may have additional requirements regarding licensure or test scores.

Ohio RN vs. BSN Pay and Opportunities

Before you enroll in an online RN to BSN program, it's normal to want to know what kind of impact you can expect your new BSN to have on your career trajectory—and on your salary. In the case of the latter, BSNs often make higher salaries than RNs, because they are more likely to qualify for specialized nursing positions or leadership roles within a hospital or other clinical setting. This salary difference can be especially true in competitive markets, where the high concentration of RNs makes it important to stand out to employers. A BSN can be invaluable differentiating a candidate for a job–and northeastern Ohio has one of the highest concentrations of RNs in the country.

Further, if you're looking to continue in your nursing education at the postgraduate level, you will need a BSN in order to apply for MSN and DSN programs. A postgraduate degree is necessary for advanced nursing roles, such as working as a nurse practitioner or nurse midwife, so if you want to pursue one of these careers, which include some of the highest-paid roles in the field of nursing, earning your BSN is a crucial first step.

Ranking Ohio’s Online RN to BSN Bridge Programs

We determine how to rank Ohio’s online RN to BSN programs by considering a variety of different factors, as seen in our methodology review. These include the availability of online learning and how many resources are available to online students, tuition costs and availability of financial aid for online students, and the percentage of students successfully completing the program. With that in mind, here is our ranking of online RN to BSN programs in Ohio:

1
Ohio State University’s online RN to BSN program can be completed in as few as 12 months. It is fully online, with asynchronous classes, and requires 30 credit hours at $566.58 per credit hour. The program emphasizes leadership, community health, and evidence-based practice, preparing nurses for diverse healthcare settings and further graduate studies. Admission requires an associate degree in nursing or a nursing diploma, a 2.0 GPA, and an active RN license.

Why We Selected Ohio State University:

  • The program offers flexible online learning, allowing students to balance work and study effectively.
  • The RN to BSN program at Ohio State University provides access to distinguished faculty with expertise in nursing education.
  • The program allows students to complete their degree entirely at a distance, enhancing accessibility and convenience.

Program Details

  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average In-State Tuition$11,018
  • Average Institutional Aid$10,023
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course87%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award86%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio18/1
Aultman College offers a 100% online RN to BSN Completion Program, allowing registered nurses to earn their BSN in as few as five semesters. The program costs $306 per credit hour and requires a total of 120 credit hours for graduation. Admission requires an active RN license and a nursing diploma or associate degree. The curriculum focuses on leadership, community health, and advanced nursing practices, with flexibility for working nurses.

Why We Selected Aultman College of Nursing and Health Sciences:

  • The program offers specialized career tracks in various healthcare settings.
  • Faculty expertise includes experienced professionals with diverse clinical backgrounds.
  • Accelerated completion options are available for students with prior nursing experience.

Program Details

  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average In-State Tuition$18,210
  • Average Institutional Aid$4,145
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course85%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award67%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio6/1
Good Samaritan College of Nursing and Health Science offers a 100% online RN to BSN completion program designed for working nurses. The program can be completed in as few as five semesters, with a focus on leadership, technology use, and interprofessional collaboration. The curriculum includes 27 nursing credits and 3 general education credits, integrating knowledge from multiple disciplines. The program emphasizes high-quality patient care, leadership, and professional development. Admission requires an active RN license and previous nursing education.

Why We Selected Good Samaritan College of Nursing and Health Science:

  • Accelerated completion options allow students to finish the program in as little as 11 months.
  • Employer partnerships provide hands-on experience with community leaders and healthcare organizations.
  • Faculty expertise in specialized nursing tracks enhances career advancement opportunities.

Program Details

  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average In-State Tuition$13,605
  • Average Institutional Aid$100
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course92%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award52%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio7/1
The RN to BSN program at Kent State University is designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their education and career opportunities. The program requires 120 total credits, including 30 credits of nursing courses tailored for RNs. Students must have a minimum 2.0 GPA from a state-approved associate degree or diploma nursing program. The program prepares graduates for leadership roles, specialized nursing fields, or further education in graduate nursing programs. Career outcomes include enhanced leadership and technology skills, facilitating care coordination and management. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Prospective students can benefit from personalized advising, an individualized academic plan, and the ability to take up to 12 graduate credits concurrently. Financial aid and scholarships are available to support students throughout their studies.

Why We Selected Kent State University at Kent:

  • The program offers specialized career tracks in psychiatric/mental health and women's health nursing.
  • Scholarships are available for students with financial need, including those in accelerated programs.
  • Kent State provides opportunities for international nursing experiences and medical mission trips.

Program Details

  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average In-State Tuition$11,000
  • Average Institutional Aid$5,966
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course93%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award61%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio19/1
5

Ohio University

Athens, Ohio

Ohio University’s RN to BSN program is designed for licensed registered nurses seeking to advance their education. The program requires 120 total credits, with 31 credits in nursing courses that must be completed at Ohio University. Students can transfer many credits from previous institutions, and there are no expiration dates for transfer credits. The program typically takes one year to complete and costs less than $10,000. Admission requires an associate degree or diploma in nursing, a GPA of 2.0 or higher, and an active RN license. Upon graduation, students are prepared for leadership roles in healthcare and can pursue further education in master’s or doctoral programs. The program offers flexible scheduling with eight start dates per year and five-week-long courses, allowing students to balance work and study effectively.

Why We Selected Ohio University:

  • The program offers flexible, five-week-long nursing classes for better work-life balance.
  • Ohio University provides an Application Fee Waiver for prospective students.
  • The program is highly affordable, costing less than $10,000 for completion.

Program Details

  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average In-State Tuition$12,840
  • Average Institutional Aid$6,714
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course83%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award64%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
6
The RN to BSN program at the University of Cincinnati is designed for working nurses, offering flexibility and a comprehensive curriculum. The program consists of nine nursing courses and can be completed in as few as nine months or up to 18 months. Students can choose from six start dates annually. The program is CCNE accredited, allowing for future graduate study. It includes core courses such as Health Issues of Vulnerable Populations, Informatics for Professional Nurses, and Nurse as Professional Leader & Manager. Tuition varies based on full-time or part-time status. Admission requires an active RN license and transcripts from previous programs. The program enhances career opportunities by providing advanced knowledge in leadership, research, and community health, preparing graduates for specialized roles and management positions.

Why We Selected University of Cincinnati:

  • The University of Cincinnati's RN to BSN program offers a 100% tuition prepayment option for select UC Health nurses.
  • The program features an accelerated completion option, allowing motivated students to finish in just nine months.
  • UC's RN to BSN program provides dedicated faculty support and flexible scheduling to accommodate working professionals.

Program Details

  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average In-State Tuition$10,099
  • Average Institutional Aid$5,373
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course66%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award71%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio19/1
7

Ohio University-Eastern Campus

Saint Clairsville, Ohio

The RN to BSN program at Ohio University is designed for registered nurses seeking to enhance their skills and advance their careers. The program requires 120 total credits, with 31 credits in nursing courses that must be completed at Ohio University. Students can transfer many credits from previous institutions, and there are no limits on transferable units. The program typically takes about one year to complete and costs less than $10,000. Admission requires an associate degree or diploma in nursing, a GPA of 2.0 or higher, and an active RN license. Upon graduation, students are prepared for leadership roles in healthcare and can pursue further education in master’s or doctoral programs. The program emphasizes clinical reasoning, leadership, and evidence-based practice, providing a strong foundation for career advancement.

Why We Selected Ohio University-Eastern Campus:

  • Ohio University's RN to BSN program offers flexible five-week courses for busy schedules.
  • The program is highly affordable, costing less than $10,000 for completion.
  • Ohio University provides an Application Fee Waiver for prospective students.

Program Details

  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average In-State Tuition$5,774
  • Average Institutional Aid$2,070
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course88%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award21%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio12/1
Ohio University’s RN to BSN program is designed for licensed registered nurses seeking to advance their education. The program requires 120 total credits, with 31 credits in nursing courses that must be completed at Ohio University. Students can transfer many credits from previous institutions, allowing them to complete the program in as little as one year. The cost is under $10,000, making it highly affordable. Admission requires an associate degree or diploma in nursing, a GPA of 2.0 or higher, and an active RN license. Upon graduation, students are prepared for leadership roles in healthcare and can pursue further education in master’s or doctoral programs. The program emphasizes clinical reasoning, leadership, and evidence-based practice, equipping graduates for advanced roles in nursing.

Why We Selected Ohio University-Southern Campus:

  • Ohio University's RN to BSN program offers flexible five-week courses for easy scheduling.
  • The program provides affordable tuition options, costing less than $10,000 for completion.
  • Ohio University's RN to BSN program allows for eight start dates annually, enabling timely degree completion.

Program Details

  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average In-State Tuition$5,774
  • Average Institutional Aid$2,221
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course92%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award21%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
Ohio University’s RN to BSN program is designed for licensed registered nurses seeking to enhance their careers. The program requires 120 total credits, with 31 credits in nursing courses that must be completed at Ohio University. Students can transfer many credits from previous institutions. The program typically takes one year to complete and costs less than $10,000. Admission requires an associate degree or diploma in nursing, a GPA of 2.0 or higher, and an active RN license. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles and further education in nursing. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and is part of Ohio University’s highly regarded College of Health Sciences and Professions.

Why We Selected Ohio University-Zanesville Campus:

  • The program offers flexible, five-week-long nursing classes for better work-life balance.
  • Ohio University provides an Application Fee Waiver for prospective students.
  • The program is one of the most affordable in the U.S., costing less than $10,000.

Program Details

  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average In-State Tuition$5,774
  • Average Institutional Aid$2,148
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course92%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award21%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
The RN to BSN program at Ohio University is designed for licensed registered nurses seeking to advance their education. It requires completing 120 total credits, with 31 credits in nursing courses taken at Ohio University. The program can be completed in as little as one year. Tuition is under $10,000, making it highly affordable. Admission requires an associate degree or diploma in nursing, a GPA of 2.0 or higher, and an active RN license. The program enhances skills in clinical reasoning, leadership, and evidence-based practice, preparing graduates for nursing leadership roles or further education in master’s or doctoral programs. The program offers flexible scheduling with eight start dates annually, allowing students to balance work and study effectively.

Why We Selected Ohio University-Lancaster Campus:

  • Ohio University's RN to BSN program offers flexible five-week courses for busy schedules.
  • The program provides an affordable tuition option, costing less than $10,000 for completion.
  • Ohio University's School of Nursing is highly ranked, offering a prestigious degree from a respected institution.

Program Details

  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average In-State Tuition$5,774
  • Average Institutional Aid$1,815
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course94%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award20%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
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Ellery Weil, PhD AUTHOR

Dr. Ellery Weil holds a bachelor's degree in Political Science from the University of Michigan -- Ann Arbor, and a master's degree and PhD in History from University College London, and has been writing professionally in the higher education sector and for nutrition and wellness spaces for over six years. In addition to her work below, her writing has been published by Pearson, Arizona State University, BestColleges, A-List Education, and more.

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