The Best Online Nursing Schools and Programs

portrait of NurseJournal Rankings Team
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Updated February 20, 2023

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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NurseJournal.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?

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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.

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.

Featured 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.

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.

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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. University of Florida
    Location

    Gainesville, FL

    Tuition

    $10287

    Graduation Rate
    88%
    View School Profile

    UF ranks among the top public schools nationwide, and U.S. News & World Report places the university's online learning division 3rd in the country. UF's 60-credit online registered nurse (RN) to bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) bridge program does not include any in-person components. However, learners must complete 90 clinical hours. Core courses include professional nursing in the evolving healthcare system, legal and ethical issues in nursing, and professional nursing transformation.

    Admission requirements include an associate degree in nursing (ADN) from a program accredited by the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, an unencumbered Florida RN license, and a minimum 2.8 GPA. UF awards students up to 30 credits for professional portfolios and prior learning.

    • Program(s): RN-to-BSN
    • Campus: Gainesville, Florida
    • Type: Public
    • Accreditation(s): Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
    • Tuition: $129 per credit for in-state; $553 for out-of-state
    • Admission Requirements: ADN; Florida RN license; minimum 2.8 GPA; a grade of C or higher for all prerequisite courses
    • Minimum Time Commitment: About five semesters
    • On-Campus Requirements: No
    • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95.93%
    • School site: Tuition | Financial aid
  2. University of Central Florida
    Location

    Orlando, FL

    Tuition

    $13016

    Graduation Rate
    73%
    View School Profile

    Established in 1963, UCF offers over 230 degrees through 13 colleges. Registered nurses (RNs) with a valid Florida license can access two of the best online nursing programs the university has to offer. Applicants with an associate degree in nursing (ADN) from an accredited school can enroll in UCF's RN to bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) bridge program and transfer up to 29 credits of prior coursework.

    Students must complete an additional 30 credits and maintain a minimum 2.8 GPA. UCF also allows learners to complete up to nine credits toward a master of science in nursing (MSN). However, candidates with at least one semester in nursing from another accredited Florida nursing program may enroll in the associate in science degree in nursing (ASN) to bachelor's bridge program, which requires a minimum 2.0 GPA.

    • Program(s): RN-to-BSN; ASN-to-BSN
    • Campus: Orlando, Florida
    • Type: Public
    • Accreditation(s): Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
    • Tuition: $179 per credit in-state; $716 per credit out-of-state
    • Admission Requirements: 2.8-3.0 GPA; ADN or ASN from an accredited Florida program; valid RN license for the RN-to-BSN program
    • Minimum Time Commitment: 3-6 semesters
    • On-Campus Requirements: No
    • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96.64%
    • School site: Tuition | Financial aid
  3. Appalachian State University
    Location

    Boone, NC

    Tuition

    $10491

    Graduation Rate
    72%
    View School Profile

    Appalachian is a public institution offering over 150 programs. Enrollment exceeds 20,000 and graduates benefit from a vast alumni network with over 134,000 members. Licensed registered nurses (RNs) considering the next step in their career can earn the university's bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree online in one year, with no campus visits.

    The 30-credit program features nontraditional clinical courses in which students engage in class projects and research. Admission requirements include an associate degree in nursing (ADN) from an accredited school, official transcripts, and a valid RN license. Other requirements include a 2.5 GPA at minimum and a criminal background check.

    • Program(s): RN-to-BSN
    • Campus: Boone, North Carolina
    • Type: Public
    • Accreditation(s): Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
    • Tuition: $163 per credit for in-state; $644 per credit for out-of-state
    • Admission Requirements: ADN from an accredited school; valid RN license; minimum 2.5 GPA; criminal background check
    • Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
    • On-Campus Requirements: No
    • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100%
    • School site: Tuition | Financial aid
  4. Ohio State University
    Location

    Columbus, OH

    Tuition

    $18694

    Graduation Rate
    84%
    View School Profile

    Founded in 1870, Ohio State places among the nation's top public schools. The university's online bachelor's degrees are also top ranked. Ohio State's registered nurse (RN) to bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program requires 30 credits. RNs can earn their degree in 12-15 months.

    Students access coursework through the CarmenCanvas learning management system. Courses include cultural competence in healthcare, evolving concepts in leadership and management, and interprofessional concepts.

    Admission to the program requires 16-19 prerequisite credits and an associate degree in nursing (ADN) from a school accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. Out-of-state online applicants enjoy similar tuition rates as in-state students.

    • Program(s): RN-to-BSN
    • Campus: Columbus, Ohio
    • Type: Public
    • Accreditation(s): Higher Learning Commission and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
    • Tuition: $16,422 total cost for in-state; $17,022 total cost for out-of-state
    • Admission Requirements: ADN accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing; minimum 2.0 GPA; active RN license; resume; personal statement
    • Minimum Time Commitment: About three semesters
    • On-Campus Requirements: No
    • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: N/A
    • School site: Tuition | Financial aid
  5. Florida International University
    Location

    Miami, FL

    Tuition

    $9180

    Graduation Rate
    58%
    View School Profile

    FIU is a public research university that prioritizes student-centered learning and global citizenship. Enrollment exceeds 54,000 and the student body represents over 140 countries. The Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing and Health Sciences offers an online nursing program that requires only three semesters of full-time attendance for the bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree.

    Courses include adult nursing, maternal and child nursing, health assessment and promotion, and care of communities. The 30-credit program includes a clinical practicum. Admission requires a registered nurse (RN) license, 2.75 GPA at minimum, and an associate degree in nursing (ADN) from an accredited school.

    • Program(s): RN-to-BSN
    • Campus: Miami, Florida
    • Type: Public
    • Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
    • Tuition: $229 per credit in-state; $346 per credit out-of-state
    • Admission Requirements: Valid RN license; 2.75 GPA; ADN; at least 60 lower division college credits
    • Minimum Time Commitment: N/A
    • On-Campus Requirements: No
    • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 92.74%
    • School site: Tuition | Financial aid
  6. University of Virginia
    Location

    Charlottesville, VA

    Tuition

    $17845

    Graduation Rate
    94%
    View School Profile

    One of the nation's top five public universities, UVA is home to 12 schools, including the School of Nursing. The university offers a 30-credit registered nurse to bachelor of science in nursing (RN-to-BSN) program for associate degree in nursing (ADN) holders. Students can earn their degree in two years. While distance learners access most coursework online, the curriculum includes monthly in-person classes.

    Courses include introduction to statistics in healthcare research, transition to baccalaureate nursing practice, and pathophysiology. Admission to the program requires a 2.0 GPA at minimum, a valid RN license, official transcripts, and one recommendation letter. In addition to the main Charlottesville campus, satellite locations include Richmond and Fairfax. Transfer students and candidates with non-nursing bachelor's degrees may apply.

    • Program(s): RN-to-BSN
    • Campus: Charlottesville, Virginia
    • Type: Public
    • Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
    • Tuition: $542 per credit in-state; $1,673 per credit out-of-state
    • Admission Requirements: Unencumbered RN license; ADN; official transcripts; minimum 2.0 GPA; one recommendation letter
    • Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
    • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
    • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 94%
    • School site: Tuition | Financial aid
  7. The University of Alabama
    Location

    Tuscaloosa, AL

    Tuition

    $20465

    Graduation Rate
    72%
    View School Profile

    This public institution prioritizes academic excellence and strives to cultivate socially conscious leaders. UA's Capstone College of Nursing offers one of the best online nursing programs for registered nurses (RNs) considering a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree as the next step in their careers.

    This online degree comprises 52-58 lower division credits and 25 upper division credits. UA awards students 41 credits for prior coursework. Classes include life span human development, medical ethics, and nursing informatics for RNs. Applicants must hold an associate degree in nursing (ADN) from an accredited school, an RN license, and a minimum 2.5 GPA.

    • Program(s): RN-to-BSN
    • Campus: Tuscaloosa, Alabama
    • Type: Public
    • Accreditation(s): Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
    • Tuition: $375 per credit
    • Admission Requirements: ADN; official transcripts; valid RN license; minimum 2.5 GPA
    • Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
    • On-Campus Requirements: No
    • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 98.06%
    • School site: Tuition | Financial aid
  8. Texas A&M University
    Location

    College Station, TX

    Tuition

    $19118

    Graduation Rate
    82%
    View School Profile

    Boasting a student body of 69,000, Texas A&M values academic excellence, leadership, and civic engagement. Registered nurses (RNs) ready to take the next step in their career with a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) can earn their degree online through the university's College of Nursing.

    The RN-to-BSN degree consists of 30 credits. Students can choose from three course schedule options and graduate in 1-2 years. Admission requirements include a minimum 3.0 GPA, an associate degree in nursing (ADN), an active RN license, and a personal statement. Other requirements include community service and a criminal background check.

    • Program(s): RN-to-BSN
    • Campus: College Station, Texas
    • Type: Public
    • Accreditation(s): Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
    • Tuition: $12,000 per academic year in-state; $38,962 per academic year out-of-state
    • Admission Requirements: ADN; RN license; 3.0 GPA; personal statement; background check
    • Minimum Time Commitment: About three semesters
    • On-Campus Requirements: No
    • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 99.28%
    • School site: Tuition | Financial aid
  9. Stony Brook University
    Location

    Stony Brook, NY

    Tuition

    $14874

    Graduation Rate
    74%
    View School Profile

    Stony Brook offers more than 100 master's programs, including in-person and online options. Registered nurses (RNs) exploring online nursing schools can earn their master of science in nursing leadership at Stony Brook while they remain employed. This 36-credit program uses a blended model that features on-site immersions. Courses include applications in clinical nursing and business skills for nurse leaders.

    Students must complete multiple clinical experiences and submit a clinical practice portfolio at the end of the program. Prospective distance learners must provide transcripts and boast one year of experience, a 3.0 GPA at minimum, a bachelor's in nursing, and an RN license. Students must also hold malpractice insurance.

    • Program(s): Master of science in nursing leadership
    • Campus: Stony Brook, New York
    • Type: Public
    • Accreditation(s): Middle States Commission on Higher Education and Colleges and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
    • Tuition: $471 per credit in-state; $963 per credit out-of-state
    • Admission Requirements: Bachelor of science in nursing; minimum 3.0 GPA; RN license; one year of experience; malpractice insurance; official transcripts
    • Minimum Time Commitment: N/A
    • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
    • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: N/A
    • School site: Tuition | Financial aid
  10. The University of West Florida
    Location

    Pensacola, FL

    Tuition

    $9091

    Graduation Rate
    44%
    View School Profile

    UWF prioritizes student-centered learning, inclusion, and innovation. Students at the Pensacola-based institution can access over 70 degrees on campus and online. For instance, registered nurses (RNs) can pursue the school's online RN to bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree. Students can complete the online nursing program in 12 months without attending any classes on campus.

    Candidates need 124 credits to graduate, including 21 prerequisite credits, 32 major credits, and 16 elective credits. UFW awards credit for eligible prior coursework. Distance learners enjoy access to multiple support services including online tutoring, a writing lab, and digital databases.

    • Program(s): RN-to-BSN
    • Campus: Pensacola, Florida
    • Type: Public
    • Accreditation(s): Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
    • Tuition: $282 per credit
    • Admission Requirements: Valid RN license in the state students plan to practice; minimum 2.75 GPA; level 2 criminal background check; associate degree in nursing from an accredited school
    • Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
    • On-Campus Requirements: No
    • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 91.45%
    • School site: Tuition | Financial aid

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.


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