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 (RNs) 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
- University of Florida
- University of Central Florida
- Atlantis University
- Florida International University
- 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.
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 of 2023
University of Florida
- Gainesville, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Designed for working registered nurses (RNs), the fully online bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program at the University of Florida emphasizes leadership skills. The RN-to-BSN requires 90 clinical hours: 45 hours of virtual simulation and 45 hours of clinical placements at healthcare organizations near students' homes.
Students learn to apply current evidence, information, and technology management to improve patient outcomes. They also analyze healthcare policies, influence nursing practice, and promote wellness.
- Program: Bachelor of science in nursing (RN-to-BSN)
- Campus: Gainesville, Florida
- Type: Public
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Tuition: $129 per credit for Florida residents; $553 per credit for out-of-state students
- Admission Requirements: Bachelor's degree or 60 college-level transfer credits; associate degree in nursing from an accredited program; current Florida RN license; minimum 2.8 GPA; a C or higher in prerequisite coursework
- Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 89% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $59,576 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 The Best Online Nursing Schools and Programs of 2023
University of Central Florida
- Orlando, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Central Florida's online bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) focuses on clinical nursing practice and leadership skills. The program admits registered nurses, and enrollees can choose the pace of study and finish their coursework in 3-10 semesters.
The curriculum prepares graduates to pursue their master's in nursing. BSN coursework includes healthcare issues, policy, and economics; nursing leadership, management, and role transition; and nursing research.
- Program: Bachelor of science in nursing (RN-to-BSN)
- Campus: Orlando, Florida
- Type: Public
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Tuition: $179 per credit for Florida residents; $716 per credit for out-of-state students
- Admission Requirements: UCF undergraduate admission; UCF general education requirements, associate degree, or bachelor's degree; residency in a Nurse Licensure Compact state; current RN license; minimum 2.8 GPA; a C or higher in prerequisite coursework
- Minimum Time Commitment: Three semesters
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 89% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $57,507 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Percent Online Enrollment
9%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 The Best Online Nursing Schools and Programs of 2023
Atlantis University
The online RN-to-BSN program at Atlantis University prepares registered nurses (RNs) to advance in their careers. The curriculum centers on critical and ethical thinking, effective communication, and technology skills in complex healthcare situations.
Students complete practicums and a capstone, along with courses in crisis intervention in healthcare, global aspects of healthcare, and nursing in diverse communities.
Support for distance learners includes an online orientation, technical assistance, and advising by phone or email.
- Program: Bachelor of science in nursing (RN-to-BSN)
- Campus: Miami, Florida
- Type: Private
- Accreditation: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools & Colleges
- Tuition: $960 per semester
- Admission Requirements: Associate degree in nursing; current RN license
- Minimum Time Commitment: 20 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
Admission Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
67%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
#4 The Best Online Nursing Schools and Programs of 2023
Florida International University
- Miami, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Florida International University offers a fully online bachelor of science in nursing for licensed registered nurses interested in advancing their careers. Enrollees can begin their studies during any semester.
The curriculum provides a solid foundation in evidence-based nursing practices. Course topics include community health; health, wellness, and care across cultures; and nursing leadership in global healthcare. Students complete a senior clinical practicum at the end of the program.
- Program: Bachelor of science in nursing - RN-to-BSN
- Campus: Miami, Florida
- Type: Public
- Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Tuition: $229 per credit for Florida residents; $346 per credit for out-of-state students
- Admission Requirements: Associate in arts or non-nursing bachelor's degree; associate degree in nursing or a diploma in nursing from an accredited program; current Florida RN license; minimum 2.75 GPA; 60 transferable college credits; a C or higher in prerequisite coursework
- Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 85% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $63,071 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Percent Online Enrollment
86%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 The Best Online Nursing Schools and Programs of 2023
University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Madison, WI
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Wisconsin-Madison's online nursing program admits registered nurses who want to earn their bachelor's in nursing without having to relocate. The program focuses on skill building, critical thinking, and leadership development.
Core nursing courses include chronic care management, foundations of professional nursing practice, and information and health technology. Elective courses include aging and health, cross-cultural health, interdisciplinary care of children, and mental health nursing. The program culminates with a clinical capstone at sites in students' communities.
- Program: Bachelor of science in nursing - RN-to-BSN
- Campus: Madison, Wisconsin
- Type: Public
- Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Tuition: $452 per credit
- Admission Requirements: Associate degree in nursing or a diploma in nursing from an accredited program; current RN license; minimum 2.5 GPA; 24 transferable college credits; high school or college-level foreign language and math prerequisites
- Minimum Time Commitment: 16 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 95% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $64,769 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Percent Online Enrollment
93%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Nursing Programs
Is nursing school harder online?
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.
Are online nursing degrees worth anything?
As long as an online nursing degree is accredited, it holds the same value as any other nursing program. Make sure that you enroll in an online degree acknowledged by the state where you want to practice. Some state boards only accept licensure from specific schools within that state.
How do I succeed in online nursing school?
Online nursing school doesn't come with some of the structure of an on-campus program. Some online programs only offer asynchronous courses as well. Because of this, students must possess self-motivation, discipline, and time management skills to succeed, especially if they also work a full- or part-time job.
