Registered nurses (RNs) are passionate about helping patients and improving overall health and wellness in their communities. Many also enter the field because it offers a clear path to advancement, with each additional degree or certification presenting new opportunities for professional growth.
One of the most compelling opportunities? A popular bridge program known as the RN to BSN, which emphasizes leadership skills and evidence-based practice. This program’s return on investment can be considerable: substantial wage increases, along with the opportunity to explore specialties that may result in even higher earnings. Additionally, this can be a valuable step on the path toward a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and high-level opportunities such as advanced practice registered nursing.
Despite these advantages, some students wonder if they can find affordable RN to BSN programs. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to keep costs under control. To help, we detail the factors that shape the true cost of an RN to BSN degree while also revealing which qualities distinguish low-cost RN to BSN programs.
Understanding the Cost of an RN to BSN Degree
There are numerous ways to conceptualize the cost and the Return on Investment (ROI) of an RN to BSN degree. Many would-be students are quick to focus on tuition, and though this definitely matters, it represents just one of several factors that can shape overall financial implications.
A range of other concerns can influence the cost of this program; for example, extra fees and transportation add up quickly. Also worth considering is the potential need to cut back on professional commitments such as full-time shift work. Other, more welcome factors (like scholarships and employer assistance) may reduce anticipated expenses.
There is no singular way to approach the process of estimating RN to BSN expenses. Much depends on your priorities as a future student. Do you anticipate studying online or continuing to work as you pursue your degree? Do you have preferences for the type of program or its location? Identify these priorities early on, and be prepared to make a few trade-offs as you find affordable RN to BSN programs that meet your unique needs.
Ultimately, the ideal program will help you improve your nursing skill set and enhance your professional network, all while allowing you to control your budget and maintain an optimal work-school-life balance.
RN to BSN Tuition Costs
Tuition is not the only cost worth considering, but it certainly can shape the overall financial picture as you select your RN to BSN program. This will likely be the most significant expense, although it may also be the easiest cost to plan for and reduce.
Delve in below to how tuition is structured and how you might cover this cost as an RN to BSN student. Take some time to explore tuition concerns and their relevance to your situation — but don’t forget to use a net price calculator, which can provide a tailored estimate. This can act as a great starting point as you begin to determine the big picture of your RN to BSN finances.
Per-Credit Pricing
Bridge programs such as the RN to BSN tend to adopt one of two main strategies for charging tuition: assessing a lump sum fee for each term (or a larger lump sum for the full program) or charging on a per-credit basis. Each approach can be advantageous, but a lot depends on personal priorities.
Per-credit pricing can enhance flexible learning solutions, particularly for busy RNs who anticipate scaling their workload (or their courseload) to reflect specific scheduling arrangements. Rather than committing to a certain number of credits, students enrolled in per-credit programs have the flexibility to pay exclusively for the classes they take in any given term or semester.
Those seeking an accelerated path to graduation may prefer a flat rate approach, which could actually cost less over time. Flat-rate programs tend to be more predictable and, as a result, could make it far easier to plan for future expenses.
Program Fees: Additional Fees Beyond Tuition
In addition to paying a flat rate or a specific fee per credit, RN to BSN students can expect several program-related fees. These cover various costs associated with college facilities, technological upgrades, and diverse administrative functions. These expenses may vary depending on the type of program students enter, with key distinctions typically involving fees for online versus in-person programs. Online students, for example, may need to pay distance education fees, while in-person students often pay building fees.
Textbook and Material Costs
When assessing college expenses, along with paying to attend classes or participate in lab experiences, students will need textbooks and other class materials. These can add up quickly, although much depends on which textbooks are required. Insights from the Educational Data Initiative suggest that hard-copy textbooks tend to cost between $100 and $150, but some may cost as much as $400.
Depending on course requirements, other opportunities for savings could include purchasing used textbooks or taking advantage of online materials. These are not always readily available, however, so a higher per-book estimate is advised when calculating the potential cost of textbooks. With the RN to BSN typically encompassing 15 courses, it is possible to spend between $2,000 and $2,500 on textbooks.
Hidden Costs: Miscellaneous Fees and Unexpected Expenses
The fees and materials outlined above have been fairly consistent over the years and can easily be planned for during the enrollment process. Other expenses may be highly individual and are less likely to be publicized. Examples might include graduation fees, payment plan fees, or fees associated with electronic resource assessments. To be safe, budget a few hundred dollars to cover costs that you might not anticipate just yet.
Cost Comparison: Public vs. Private and In-State vs. Out-of-State
RN to BSN tuition and fees can vary dramatically between programs. Public, in-state programs tend to be the most affordable, especially when they involve an online format. Insights from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) suggest that tuition averages $9,800 per year for public colleges or $40,700 per year for private, nonprofit institutions.
Public vs. Private
On average, the sticker price for tuition at a public college is considerably less than for a private college, but the costs may vary substantially between various private colleges. Many private colleges offer generous scholarship programs, which may help offset the overall cost of attendance. Yet, because there is no guarantee of qualifying for these scholarships, some students prefer the peace of mind that comes with a public program, which may allow for a lower base tuition fee.
In-State vs. Out-of-State
For nursing students who opt for public colleges, the more affordable option will almost always involve in-state enrollment. These lower costs reflect the reality that in-state students and their families contribute by paying taxes in their home states. However, exceptions exist, and many neighboring states maintain reciprocity agreements to encourage students from specific states to attend school across state lines. These reciprocity agreements can even help states fill gaps in educational offerings.
Online vs. In-Person RN to BSN Programs
Learning format can have a major impact on both the cost of education and the overall student experience. For working RNs, this decision is often shaped by scheduling concerns. It may be easier to maintain a full-time work schedule if aided by flexible college options. This can promote an overall boost to the program’s ROI: By attending college online, students may find it easier to take on more robust (and therefore, higher-paying) work commitments.
Cost Considerations
Beyond commuting concerns and work schedules, RNs may favor online programs because the cost of tuition is often lower. While distance learning fees are possible, these may be offset by significant reductions in campus fees and overall tuition rates.
Online programs tend to be more affordable due to reduced overhead expenses compared to their in-person counterparts. The cost of facility maintenance and on-campus services can add up, but by emphasizing online coursework, institutions can limit operational expenses. Scalability makes a difference, too — and with online programs, it is easier to add more students without requiring additional (and potentially costly) physical resources.
Online tuition and fees can still vary greatly, however, so it is crucial to compare specific online programs before making a decision. Discernment about personal learning preference is also important. Some students simply prefer in-person learning accommodations and, regardless of potential savings, will always gravitate toward traditional programs.
Financial Aid Options: Scholarships, Grants, and Federal Aid
Once you understand the upfront price of completing an RN to BSN program, you can start pinpointing strategies for reducing those costs. This typically involves financial aid, with scholarships and grants, in particular, proving appealing because they do not need to be paid back.
Numerous nursing-specific scholarships have been established in hopes of attracting talented and passionate professionals to this field. Some programs may be tied to specific colleges, while others are widely available to nurses seeking their BSN.
The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) provides a wealth of insight into currently available scholarship programs. These accommodate many different types of students, but they are worth exploring if you are serious about reducing the overall cost of completing your BSN. Personal research may be needed to uncover regional or college-specific scholarships.
Depending on your unique situation, you could also qualify for significant need-based grants. As you plan your career trajectory, be mindful of opportunities such as the Nursing Education Loan Repayment Program (NELRP).
Employer Tuition Reimbursement: Maximizing Benefits
Employers in the healthcare sector increasingly recognize the value of a bachelor’s-level education. According to AACN’s 2023 Employment Research Brief, nearly 70% of healthcare employers now prefer to hire nurses who have already earned their BSN. That being said, many are willing to help currently employed nurses seek additional education, especially if this allows them to retain hardworking RNs who have already proven themselves in the field.
This is where employer tuition reimbursements can make a world of difference. These employer-sponsored programs may be available to full-time employees if the curricula relates to current job responsibilities or future positions. Pre-approval may be required, along with proof of enrollment.
Keep in mind that most employers set strict annual limits or caps — and that reimbursement clauses may force employees to pay back tuition if they leave the employer in question within a certain period. If you are interested in this option, consult with your supervisor or HR to verify your eligibility.
Payment Plan Options: Spreading Out Costs Over Time
Many RN to BSN affordable online programs offer payment plans. These make tuition feel more manageable by allowing for monthly payments rather than requiring a lump sum. This arrangement should not be confused with student loans, which are paid back over the course of several years and may incur interest in the meantime.
Depending on your situation, extended payment deadlines may be possible as well. When in doubt, ask Student Financial Services for insight into flexible payment options.
Elevate Your Nursing Career With Our RN to BSN Program
At Nevada State University, we are committed to supporting your nursing journey. We want to encourage you as you enhance your nursing skill set and prepare for the next big step in your career. Get in touch today to learn more about our RN to BSN online program — and feel free to contact Student Financial Services to discuss opportunities for funding your future.