More and more registered nurses (RNs) are choosing to advance their education to meet the growing demands of the healthcare industry.
An online RN to BSN program or RN to BS program can open doors to leadership roles, expand your clinical knowledge, and prepare you for future graduate-level study.
But with so many options available, the question becomes: how do you compare RN to BS online programs and find the one that truly fits your needs?
This guide walks you through the most important factors to consider so you can make an informed decision and choose an online bachelor’s degree in Nursing program or online RN to BS program that aligns with your professional goals.
| Comparison Criteria | Why It Matters | What to Look For |
| Accreditation | Ensures academic quality and eligibility for licensure or graduate programs | CCNE or ACEN accreditation |
| Course Format | Affects your ability to balance work, life, and school | Asynchronous vs. synchronous; full-time vs. part-time options; timeframes (such as 8-week courses) allowing students the flexibility to focus on one course at a time |
| Credit Transfer Policy | Impacts program length and cost | Acceptance of prior RN coursework and general education credits |
| Clinical Requirements | May influence time commitment and scheduling flexibility | Practice-based vs. traditional clinicals |
| Program Length | Determines how quickly you can graduate | 24 months or less depending on pace and transfer credits |
| Faculty Support | Crucial for success in an online learning environment | Access to advisors, responsive instructors, and support staff |
| Technology & Platform | Impacts ease of access and engagement with coursework | Mobile-friendly platform, 24/7 access, intuitive design |
| Cost & Financial Aid | Affects affordability and return on investment | Transparent tuition, scholarships, and financial aid availability |
| Career Support Services | Enhances post-graduation opportunities and networking | Resume assistance, job search support, and alumni connections |
Accreditation: Non-Negotiable for Quality and Career Growth
When choosing an online RN to BSN program, accreditation is essential. Accreditation ensures your degree is recognized by employers, qualifies you for licensure requirements, and meets the standards for admission into graduate nursing programs.
Look for programs accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). These credentials signal academic rigor and professional credibility.
Stevenson University Online (SUO) is fully accredited and committed to maintaining the highest academic standards, giving you the confidence your hard work will be respected in the nursing field.
Flexibility and Format: How Well Does the Program Fit Your Life?
Nurses often work long, irregular hours, so program format can make or break your educational experience.
- Asynchronous learning lets you complete coursework on your own schedule.
- Synchronous learning includes live classes that can provide more structure and interaction.
- Part-time and full-time options allow you to adjust your pace to fit work and family needs.
Coursework in SUO’s online RN to BS program is offered asynchronously with flexible pacing options. We design our courses with working Nurses in mind, so you can balance your studies with your demanding schedule.
Curriculum and Clinical Requirements
When you compare RN to BS online programs and RN to BSN online programs, take a close look at the curriculum. The best programs offer a blend of leadership, community health, evidence-based practice, and advanced clinical concepts—all of which are immediately applicable to your role.
Clinical requirements vary by school. Some may require traditional clinical hours, while others integrate practice-based experiences that leverage your current nursing role.
SUO’s curriculum is designed for working RNs and focuses on real-world application rather than duplicating clinical skills you already use daily.
Support Services and Faculty Accessibility
In an online RN to BSN or online RN to BS program, strong support can be the difference between success and frustration. Look for a school that offers:
- Dedicated academic advisors
- Responsive, experienced faculty
- 24/7 technical support
- Access to online and/or on-campus resources, including library, career, and student services
At SUO, you’re never on your own. From enrollment to graduation, our faculty and advisors are committed to providing the support you need to succeed. And, our support systems are specifically designed to meet the needs of busy nursing professionals.
Cost and Financial Aid
While affordability is important, the real measure is value. When comparing tuition, consider:
- How many credits you can transfer in
- Whether scholarships or employer tuition assistance are available
- Flexible payment options
At SUO, we review our programs to ensure we’re offering the most value to our students. Our online RN to BS in Nursing program accepts transfer credits from prior Nursing and general education coursework, reducing both the time required to complete our program, and the cost of our program. And, our financial aid resources make completing your degree at SUO more accessible.
Alumni Outcomes and Career Support
A strong career services department and a network of engaged alumni can help you maximize your degree’s impact. Review program outcomes, such as graduation rates and job placement statistics, and look for schools that actively support your career development.
SUO students receive support from our dedicated career services team. The team offers a variety of services to help students take the next step in their careers, including resume reviews, interview preparation, and networking opportunities. Our graduates are prepared for to pursue leadership roles, specialized practice, and advanced degrees.
Choosing the Best Online RN to BSN Program for You
The right online RN to BS program will check all the boxes: accreditation, flexible learning formats, relevant curriculum, robust support, and strong alumni outcomes.
When you compare RN to BS online programs or RN to BSN online programs, it’s important to focus on both the tangible details, like cost and program length, and the intangibles, like faculty accessibility and career support.
Stevenson University Online’s RN to BS program is designed specifically for working nurses. The program offers the flexibility, affordability, and the resources you need to succeed.
Our faculty bring their unique backgrounds and experiences to their courses, ensuring all our students are exposed to the many opportunities in the field of Nursing. Take the next step toward your Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. Request information today and see how SUO can help you achieve your goals and advance your Nursing career.