The good news is that you can afford an online RN to BSN program. Just remember that tuition isn’t the only cost to consider.
Tuition
The most apparent expense for any RN to BSN program is tuition. If you choose a state-sponsored online program, you’ll usually pay less than at a private university in the same region.
Remember that tuition is based on how many credits you take over two or more semesters. Some universities have extra fees, like a per-credit distance learning fee, and one-off costs, such as an application or graduation fee.
Other costs to consider include a computer and Internet connection and the cost of books, if applicable. Check the financial aid office for details on a school’s payment plans, loans, and external scholarships. Some schools even offer nursing-specific scholarships!
Fees
Working nurses can earn their bachelor’s degree conveniently and cost-effectively through the affordable RN to BSN online programs such as Northeastern Oklahoma State University with a faculty of certified nurse educators teaching courses. These programs offer a dependable route to academic and professional progress and are especially created to cater to the demands of working professionals. It allows students to rely on their steady incomes to help subsidize tuition rather than rely on high-interest loans.
Many schools offer discounts for RN-to-BSN program participants who are alumni of the university or its community colleges and employees of affiliated health systems.
Tuition costs often rise over time, so be sure to factor in the price of a full academic year (e.g., two semesters). Ask the program coordinator for details about additional one-off and per-semester fees. Be sure to consider any school awards for nursing, as well as federal & state student loans and veteran benefits.
Books
Books and other course materials for a BSN degree can range significantly in price. Some programs require you to buy your books, while others provide them. Some schools also charge you for lab fees or have other additional costs associated with the program.
Online RN to BSN programs have become increasingly popular among students with busy schedules. They offer flexibility and can often be completed in less than three semesters.
In addition to being affordable, many online BSN programs are accredited. Accreditation is important because it shows that the school adheres to rigorous academic standards and is a recognized leader in higher education. It can also help you qualify for scholarships, grants, and tuition reimbursement through your employer.
Lab Fees
Many online universities charge semester-based fees, so you’ll want to factor that in when calculating your cost. Nursing students are eligible for general scholarships, and veterans can utilize specialized tuition assistance.
Most BSN programs require about 30 clinical/practical hours, and schools offer a variety of ways to satisfy these requirements. For example, some schools allow RNs to fulfill this requirement by working full-time throughout the program. Others offer equivalency exams or other options for non-working nurses.
Other Fees
You may also need to pay for technology fees, which vary widely. Some schools charge them monthly or weekly; others will bill you for a semester at a time.
Some hospitals and health systems offer tuition reimbursement programs to nurses who want to advance their careers.
Many universities have financial aid offices to help you with federal & state loans and veterans benefits. They might even have internal RN to BSN scholarships available. You might also check out external scholarship search engines like CFNC or the Nurses Educational Funds Organization.