Earning a bachelor's degree is a fantastic way for registered nurses to advance their nursing careers. However, it's not always easy to fit class and study time into a busy personal and work schedule.
Fortunately, there are plenty of amazing six-month RN to BSN programs available to help RNs take the next step in their nursing careers.
These programs make it possible for students to complete their studies in about two semesters. With each semester lasting about 15 weeks, students can earn their BSN with a little over a half-year's worth of work.
Top Online 6-Month RN to BSN Programs
Here is a look at some of the best six-month RN to BSN program options of 2024.
1. University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, also known as UTHealth, is home to the online RN to BSN degree.
This program enables students to complete their studies in two, three, or five semesters depending on their decision to take the Fast Track, Traditional, or Flexible enrollment option.
UTHealth's BSN, which has been ranked #1 in Texas, offers 100% online lectures and requires an in-person clinical project for degree completion.
2. University of Utah
The University of Utah's online RN to BSN is a program offering 100% online coursework and flexible start dates.
Students can finish their studies in two, three, or four semesters. In addition to online coursework, students must complete 45 clinical hours and a 68-hour clinical practicum.
It's good to note that students who are interested in the Online RN to BS Geriatric Nursing Leadership program must complete four semesters of study.
3. University of Texas Medical Branch
At the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, registered nurses can enroll in the RN to BSN program, which helps students earn their degree in just eight months.
The program consists of 10 courses that are taken over two semesters. Coursework aims to help students improve their clinical reasoning skills and practice their use of evidence-based data.
All coursework is available online in a flexible learning environment that allows students to access materials 24 hours a day.
4. Texas Tech University
Registered nurses interested in earning their bachelor's degree online can enroll in the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center's RN to BSN program.
Students must earn 30 semester credit hours to complete the program, which takes about two or three semesters to accomplish. While in the program, RNs explore new trends and theories in nursing and also closely examine professional nursing practices and holistic care.
Program admission is available on a rolling basis.
5. George Mason University
George Mason University offers a completely online RN to BSN program that registered nurses can complete in as little as two full-time semesters.
In order to earn the BSN, students must complete at least 30 hours beyond their first nursing degree.
Students are admitted to the RN to BSN program once in the fall and again in the spring.
All nursing prerequisites must be completed prior to beginning the program.
6. Georgia Southern University
The online RN to BSN program from Georgia Southern University makes it easy for students to fast-track their studies and earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing in less time.
The 100% online program, designed specifically for working nurses, helps students complete their studies in as few as two semesters.
Georgia Southern University requires only eight courses to complete the BSN program.
The university allows students to apply up to 29 previously earned nursing credits to their degree.
6-Month RN to BSN Admission Requirements
Admission requirements for six-month RN to BSN programs typically vary from school to school, but the following requirements can give you an idea of what to expect.
Nursing schools often want students to:
- possess an active, unencumbered, current RN license for the state in which you want to practice
- complete prerequisite courses (some programs allow students to complete prerequisites while enrolled)
- meet a minimum GPA requirement
- apply for admission to the school housing your chosen nursing program
- submit an application to the nursing program with official transcripts from a previous nursing degree or diploma program
Programs might also require students to earn specific grades in certain classes. For instance, you might have to earn a "B" or better in your math courses.
Advantages of a 6-Month RN to BSN Program
There are plenty of amazing benefits of enrolling in a six-month RN to BSN program. Here are just a few.
Advance Your Nursing Career in Less Time
The most obvious benefit of enrolling in a six-month RN to BSN program is your ability to earn your degree faster than in traditional programs.
This can help you make career advancements like taking on a role with greater responsibility in less than a year.
Enjoy Flexible Enrollment Options
It's common for six-month RN to BSN programs to provide flexible enrollment options. Some offer three or more entry points each year for student enrollment.
The ability to choose the fall, spring, or summer term for enrollment is ideal for working nurses with busy schedules.
Lower Your Tuition Costs
Earning a BSN in less time is often the result of students taking fewer courses and paying lower tuition costs.
RN to BSN programs that allow students to finish their studies in just two semesters often charge lower rates than other schools.
Find a 6-Month RN to BSN Program Today
There are many amazing programs offering the chance to earn your bachelor's degree in as little as two semesters. Find the right six-month RN to BSN program today and begin the process of advancing your nursing career.
