With the increasing demand for BSN-prepared nurses, many RNs are returning to school to earn their bachelor’s degrees. Two popular online options in 2025 are South University and Chamberlain University. Though both cater to working nurses, they differ significantly in cost structure, learning flexibility, and pace.
If you’re trying to decide between these two programs, this detailed comparison will walk you through the key aspects—tuition, course design, learning format, and more. Plus, we’ll highlight how NursFPXWriters.com can assist you with assignments during your academic journey.
The Value of an RN to BSN Degree
Employers across the healthcare industry now prefer nurses with BSN degrees. The degree often leads to improved job prospects, leadership roles, and higher salaries. Online RN to BSN programs make this upgrade easier for working professionals, offering the chance to study while continuing to work full-time.
Quick Snapshot: South University vs. Chamberlain
| Key Area | South University | Chamberlain University |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Fully Online (flexible) | Fully Online (structured) |
| Required Credits | 180 quarter hours | 122 semester hours |
| Typical Completion Time | 18–24 months | 12 months |
| Estimated Total Cost | $23,000–$27,000 | $19,500–$22,000 |
| Clinical Work | Capstone or project | Practice-based experiences |
| Accreditation | CCNE | CCNE |
Cost Breakdown
South University
South’s pricing is based on quarter credits, costing about $160 each. The total number of required credits makes the program’s full cost hover around $23,000 to $27,000, depending on how many credits are transferred in.
Chamberlain University
While Chamberlain charges more per credit (approximately $590), students often transfer in a large number of credits—sometimes up to 82. As a result, the total cost ranges from $19,500 to $22,000.
Financial Support
Both schools participate in federal financial aid programs and offer support for military and veteran students. Chamberlain also extends tuition discounts to employees of healthcare partner organizations.
Program Duration & Flexibility
South University
Designed for students who need a slower pace, South’s RN to BSN can take up to two years. It offers asynchronous learning, meaning students can log in and complete tasks on their own time.
Chamberlain University
Chamberlain’s program is one of the fastest options available, with the potential to graduate in just 12 months. It uses eight-week course blocks, offering a structured and accelerated path.
Coursework and Clinical Activities
What South Offers
South’s curriculum includes subjects like public health, nursing theory, ethics, and leadership. Instead of traditional clinical placements, students complete a project-based capstone.
What You’ll Study at Chamberlain
Chamberlain includes topics such as advanced health assessments, community nursing, and leadership strategies. The Practice Experience component encourages students to apply their learning in real-world settings.
While both paths prepare you for leadership and evidence-based practice, Chamberlain focuses more on applied, hands-on learning.
Learning Experience
South University
If you enjoy working independently, South’s self-paced environment is ideal. There are fewer deadlines, giving students room to navigate their studies amid work or family responsibilities.
Chamberlain University
Chamberlain offers more structure. Assignments have fixed due dates, and students are expected to participate in weekly discussions and coursework. It’s a better fit for learners who thrive with accountability and time-bound milestones.
Both universities provide access to virtual libraries, support services, and tech help.
Accreditation and Institutional Prestige
Both programs hold accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Chamberlain has broader name recognition nationwide and is part of a larger, nursing-focused university. South is smaller in scale but still well-respected among online nursing programs.
Which One Is Better for You?
You might prefer South University if:
- You need a longer time frame to finish your degree
- Your schedule changes often, and flexibility is essential
- You like working independently with less pressure from deadlines
Chamberlain might be a better fit if:
- You want to finish in under a year
- You prefer clearly defined schedules and expectations
- You want more structured clinical or experiential learning
Need Help with Writing or Assignments?
Whether you’re preparing a community health paper or writing a final capstone, nursing coursework can be overwhelming—especially in online programs. NursFPXWriters.com supports nursing students from schools like South and Chamberlain with:
- Weekly discussion posts
- APA-formatted academic papers
- Evidence-based project writing
- Capstone and portfolio submissions
Our team understands the demands of online BSN programs and offers timely, expert help to lighten your academic load.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between South University and Chamberlain University depends on your pace, budget, and preferred learning environment. South offers maximum flexibility and a longer timeline, while Chamberlain is ideal for those ready to accelerate their degree.
Regardless of your choice, earning a BSN is a smart step forward in your nursing career. And if you ever need expert writing assistance, visit NursFPXWriters.com for trusted academic support.
