The Best Online Nursing Schools and Programs

Maura Deering, J.D.
By
Updated on September 6, 2024
Edited by
If you're a busy working professional but want to become a nurse, you should consider pursuing a nursing degree online. This resource lists the best online nursing programs.
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Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?

A college-aged African-American woman is studying for class at home. She is wearing a white wool sweater and glasses, and has her curly dark brown hair pulled up into a high ponytail. She is sitting at her kitchen dining table using her laptop to study. There are also a few books and her cell phone nearby.Credit: valentinrussanov / E+ / Getty Images

While all nursing programs educate and train nurses, online nursing programs serve as an alternative to traditional on-campus degrees. The flexibility of online schools especially appeals to students who may work full time, live far away from college campuses, or possess other responsibilities like caring for families.

Aspiring registered nurses (RN) can enroll in online associate or bachelor’s degrees in nursing. Experienced nurses can find distance learning programs for master’s degrees. Check out this guide that outlines the best online nursing programs, no matter where you are in your career.

We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best online nursing programs, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.

At a Glance: The Top Online Nursing Schools and Programs

  1. University of Florida
  2. University of Central Florida
  3. Atlantis University
  4. Florida International University
  5. University of Wisconsin-Madison

Learn more about the key factors to consider when choosing a program, or go straight to our full ranking of the best online nursing programs.

How Do Online Nursing Programs Work?

Online nursing programs consist of distance learning courses along with supervised clinical hours.

The curriculum can offer synchronous courses, when students log on for online lectures at specific times. Or they can offer asynchronous courses, which means learners can complete their coursework at their convenience, as long as they meet deadlines.

The specific structure of online nursing programs depends on the school. Universities may offer accelerated, part-time, or full-time degrees. Associate degrees traditionally take two years to complete; bachelor’s degrees last four years. Master’s degrees often take two years to complete. However, this also depends on how many credits students take each term.

Supervised clinical requirements occur on-site, usually at a healthcare facility or on campus. Students typically complete these in the latter part of their programs.

Popular Online Nursing Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

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Applying to a Online Nursing Program

Different online nursing programs come with different admission requirements.

Students who apply for an associate degree in nursing (ADN) usually need a high school diploma, as do individuals who apply for a bachelor or science in nursing (BSN). Some nurses enroll in RN-to-BSN programs, which allows registered nurses to earn their bachelor’s degrees on an accelerated track. Applicants for these programs need an ADN, nursing licensure, and previous nursing experience.

Candidates for master of science in nursing (MSN) programs should possess a BSN, active RN licensure, and usually previous nursing experience as well.

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    Admission Materials

    Transcripts from previous education — the specifics will vary, depending on level of degree; some graduate programs require a previous course in statistics; a resume outlining previous academic and career achievements; recommendation letters; personal statement
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    GPA Requirement

    Typically at least a 2.0-2.5 GPA for ADN programs; at least a 2.5 GPA for BSN and MSN degrees
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    Other Requirement

    RN-to-BSN degrees and MSN degrees often require previous nursing experience; international students must submit English language test scores

Why Is Online Nursing Program Accreditation Important?

Nursing school is an investment of time and money, and students like to know that they’re investing into their education wisely. That’s where accreditation comes in. The nursing accreditation process serves as an independent review of higher education programs, including online nursing programs.

Accreditation boards evaluate academic programs to ensure they deliver students a quality education and prepare them for their careers. Accredited degrees allow students to qualify for nursing licensure, and they help boost job prospects.

Graduate schools typically accept students only with accredited degrees. Because of the importance of accreditation, all of the programs in this ranking hold accreditation.

Learn More About the Best Online Nursing Programs and Schools

See our methodology to learn more about how we create our rankings.
#1 The Best Online Nursing Schools and Programs

University of Florida

  • Location-markerGainesville, FL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,477
  • Out-of-state$25,694
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$10,770
  • Out-of-state$27,335
  • Retention Rate97%
  • Acceptance Rate31%
  • Students Enrolled53,372
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment92%
  • AccreditationYes
#2 The Best Online Nursing Schools and Programs

University of Central Florida

  • Location-markerOrlando, FL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,478
  • Out-of-state$19,810
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$6,916
  • Out-of-state$25,759
  • Retention Rate92%
  • Acceptance Rate45%
  • Students Enrolled71,881
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment9%
  • AccreditationYes
#3 The Best Online Nursing Schools and Programs

Atlantis University

  • Location-markerMiami, FL
  • 4 year
  • Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$9,840
  • Out-of-state$9,840
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$10,764
  • Out-of-state$10,764
  • Retention Rate94%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled550
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment67%
  • AccreditationYes
#4 The Best Online Nursing Schools and Programs

Florida International University

  • Location-markerMiami, FL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,721
  • Out-of-state$16,529
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$8,912
  • Out-of-state$21,393
  • Retention Rate91%
  • Acceptance Rate58%
  • Students Enrolled58,836
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment86%
  • AccreditationYes
#5 The Best Online Nursing Schools and Programs

University of Wisconsin-Madison

  • Location-markerMadison, WI
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$9,273
  • Out-of-state$37,161
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$10,728
  • Out-of-state$24,054
  • Retention Rate95%
  • Acceptance Rate57%
  • Students Enrolled44,640
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment93%
  • AccreditationYes

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Nursing Schools and Programs

The material that students learn in online nursing programs doesn’t differ from the material they would learn in a traditional, on-campus program. However, some students may find themselves more suited to online courses, while others prefer campus classes.

Online learners must possess discipline and time management skills, since distance learning programs may require more independent work.


Explore Other Online Nursing Programs