If you’re a CNA in the Nashville area ready to take the next big step toward becoming a registered nurse, you’ve got some strong program choices. We’ve reviewed the top CNA-to-RN options and highlighted a standout feature for each so you can quickly see which might fit your needs best.
1. Fortis – Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
This program is designed for nursing assistants who want to advance to the registered nurse level, offering a hybrid format that blends on-campus instruction with select online courses through Fortis College in Centerville, Ohio. CNAs with an active LPN or LVN license from approved prior training may receive academic credit, which can shorten the time needed to complete the program.
The ADN program runs for 96 instructional weeks, totaling 1,500 contact hours and 106 quarter credits. Tuition is about $49,210–$49,364, with estimated total costs of $52,951–$53,070. Students earn an Associate of Applied Science degree and, after graduation, can apply for the NCLEX-RN exam to pursue licensure in Tennessee. Coursework covers subjects such as anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, maternal-newborn nursing, leadership, and community nursing concepts. Clinical shifts can be scheduled from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., sometimes including weekends.
Applicants need a high school diploma or equivalent, a minimum score of 22 on the Wonderlic SLE, a criminal background check, and a drug screening. CNA-to-RN students entering as LPNs must maintain an unencumbered license throughout the program. Career services are available to assist graduates with job placement.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Type | Associate Degree in Nursing (Hybrid format with CNA-to-RN pathway for qualified LPNs/LVNs) |
| Cost | Tuition: $49,210–$49,364; Estimated total cost: $52,951–$53,070 |
| Length | 96 instructional weeks; 1,500 contact hours; 106 quarter credits |
| Contact Info | 3354 Perimeter Hill Dr Suite 105, Nashville, TN 37211 (615) 320-5917 |
2. Nashville State Community College – Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
This program offers a full-time path for nursing assistants aiming to advance into registered nursing. It combines classroom learning, clinical rotations, and simulation labs. Courses cover fundamentals of nursing, pharmacology, pathophysiology, adult medical-surgical care, intensive care, maternal-newborn health, pediatrics, mental health, and community nursing. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN for Tennessee licensure.
The program takes about two years to complete and costs roughly $10,000, including tuition, fees, and other required expenses like uniforms, textbooks, liability insurance, and licensing fees. Clinicals may be scheduled at various healthcare facilities and include direct patient care experience.
Admission requires completing 27 credit hours of prerequisite courses with a grade of “C” or better, achieving at least a “Proficient” score on the ATI-TEAS exam, and being in good academic standing. Applications are accepted twice a year, with separate deadlines for fall and spring cohorts.
Accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and approved by the Tennessee Board of Nursing, the program reports strong NCLEX pass rates and job placement outcomes. CNA applicants who complete the prerequisites and meet admission standards can use this program as a bridge toward RN licensure.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Type | Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (Full-time, CNA-to-RN potential) |
| Cost | About $10,000 total, including tuition, fees, and estimated expenses |
| Length | 2 years |
| Contact Info | 120 White Bridge Pk, Nashville, TN 37209 (615) 353-3333 |
| Website | https://www.nscc.edu/academics/programs/nursing/index.php |
3. Galen College of Nursing – Associate Degree in Nursing
This program offers a direct route for nursing assistants who want to move into a registered nursing role. It is a full-time, on-campus ADN program that can be completed in two years, with four start dates each year to provide flexible entry points. Designed for students new to nursing, the curriculum blends classroom instruction, skills labs, and clinical rotations to prepare graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam and entry-level RN positions.
Students receive training in areas such as medical-surgical nursing, family and pediatric care, mental health nursing, and community health. Clinical experiences take place in healthcare settings around the Nashville area, providing hands-on patient care alongside classroom learning. The program emphasizes practical skills, critical thinking, and preparation for diverse healthcare environments.
There are no essays or prerequisites required to apply, making it accessible for qualified CNAs ready to advance. Admissions include an application and an appointment with an advisor to review goals, scheduling, and financial aid. With its accelerated timeline, consistent start dates, and focused RN preparation, Galen’s ADN program is structured for students who want to transition quickly from CNA to RN while gaining real-world clinical experience.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Type | Associate Degree in Nursing (Full-time, CNA-to-RN potential) |
| Cost | Not specified |
| Length | 2 years full-time |
| Contact Info | 1100 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, 4th Floor, Nashville, TN 37203 (615) 277-6300 |
| Website | https://galencollege.edu/campuses/nashville |
4. South College – Associate and Bachelor of Science in Nursing
South College in Nashville offers both Associate of Science in Nursing (ADN) and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs, giving nursing assistants more than one route to RN licensure. The ADN program takes about two years full-time, while the BSN program follows an accelerated, year-round schedule to be completed in less than four years. Both programs combine classroom instruction, lab work, and clinical rotations at area healthcare facilities.
Students in these programs study anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and medical-surgical nursing, along with specialized areas such as maternal-newborn, pediatrics, mental health, and community health nursing. Simulation labs provide hands-on practice before clinical placement. The curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam and entry-level RN roles in a variety of healthcare settings.
Tuition is charged quarterly and varies by credit load. For nursing majors taking 10–20 credits per quarter, the ADN rate is about $5,775 plus a $245 nursing fee, while the BSN rate is about $7,325 plus the same fee. Admission requires meeting general college entry standards, completing required coursework with minimum grades, and fulfilling program-specific requirements. The multiple program tracks allow CNA students to choose the path that best fits their timeline and career goals.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Type | Associate of Science in Nursing (ADN) and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) |
| Cost | ADN: $5,775 per quarter (10–20 credits) + $245 nursing fee BSN: $7,325 per quarter (10–20 credits) + $245 nursing fee |
| Length | ADN: ~2 years full-time BSN: <4 years full-time (year-round schedule) |
| Contact Info | 616 Marriott Dr, Nashville, TN 37214 (615) 334-4632 |
| Website | https://www.south.edu/location/nashville/ |
Our Thoughts on These CNA-to-RN Program Options in Nashville
Choosing the right CNA-to-RN path in Nashville isn’t just about picking the first school that accepts you—it’s about finding the program that fits your budget, learning style, schedule, and long-term career goals. Each school here takes a different approach, and the “best” option really depends on your priorities. Here’s how we see it:
If cost is your top concern, NSCC is hard to beat. With total estimated expenses around $10,000 for the entire Associate of Applied Science in Nursing, it’s a fraction of what private programs charge. Plus, their NCLEX pass rates have been consistently strong (around 90%+ in recent years).
Things to keep in mind:
- It’s a highly competitive admissions process with prerequisite courses required before applying.
- Full-time commitment—working while attending will be difficult.
- Only starts twice a year, so missing an application window could delay your start.
Best For:
Students who want the most cost-effective route to RN, have time to complete prerequisites, and can commit fully to school.
Fortis offers a hybrid ADN program, meaning some courses are online and others are on campus. This can be a huge plus if you need a bit more scheduling flexibility—though clinicals still require in-person attendance (and can run from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., even on weekends).
Pros:
- Designed with LPN-to-RN career changers in mind—LPNs may get credit for previous education, speeding up the process.
- Has connections to an RN-to-BSN pathway through Denver College of Nursing for career advancement.
Cons:
- Expensive—estimated total cost is around $53,000.
- Requires strong time management to balance online learning with hands-on training.
Best For:
LPNs who want an RN in the shortest time possible without starting from scratch, or students who need partial online flexibility and are okay with a higher price tag.
If you want to skip the ADN and go straight to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Galen’s 3-year BSN program is the fastest route. You’ll be career-ready with a BSN in less time than many traditional four-year programs.
Why this matters:
- A BSN is becoming the preferred degree in many hospitals.
- May open doors to higher pay and leadership roles sooner.
- No prerequisites required to apply—ideal if you’re starting fresh.
Considerations:
- Intensive year-round schedule; not ideal if you need long breaks.
- Higher total cost than community college options (exact tuition varies—ask admissions).
Best For:
Students who know they want a BSN from the start and can handle a fast-paced, immersive program.
South College offers both ADN and BSN tracks, plus online/hybrid health science options if you need to complete prerequisites first. This flexibility means you can enter at your current level—whether you’re ready for nursing courses or still building your academic foundation.
Pros:
- Multiple start dates and program formats.
- Can transition seamlessly from ADN to BSN within the same school.
Cons:
- Tuition is higher than NSCC but generally less than some private BSN programs.
- You’ll need to budget carefully, as quarterly tuition can add up quickly.
Best For:
Students who want a clear advancement pathway and the flexibility to start at different academic points.
- Reach out to every program you’re interested in—talk to an admissions advisor, ask about NCLEX pass rates, job placement, clinical site locations, and real-life scheduling demands.
- Compare total costs, not just tuition. Factor in uniforms, licensing fees, background checks, and living expenses.
- Think long-term—if you plan to earn a BSN or MSN later, see if your program offers a built-in pathway.
- Be honest about your schedule—full-time programs are intense, and hybrid options still require significant in-person time for clinicals.