
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
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.
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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 -
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
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University of FloridaLocation
Gainesville, FL
Tuition$10287
Graduation Rate88%
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
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University of Central FloridaLocation
Orlando, FL
Tuition$13016
Graduation Rate73%
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
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Appalachian State UniversityLocation
Boone, NC
Tuition$10491
Graduation Rate72%
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
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Ohio State UniversityLocation
Columbus, OH
Tuition$18694
Graduation Rate84%
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
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Florida International UniversityLocation
Miami, FL
Tuition$9180
Graduation Rate58%
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
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University of VirginiaLocation
Charlottesville, VA
Tuition$17845
Graduation Rate94%
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
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The University of AlabamaLocation
Tuscaloosa, AL
Tuition$20465
Graduation Rate72%
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
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Texas A&M UniversityLocation
College Station, TX
Tuition$19118
Graduation Rate82%
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
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Stony Brook UniversityLocation
Stony Brook, NY
Tuition$14874
Graduation Rate74%
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
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The University of West FloridaLocation
Pensacola, FL
Tuition$9091
Graduation Rate44%
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
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University of Wisconsin-MadisonLocation
Madison, WI
Tuition$14169
Graduation Rate87%
UW values cultural awareness, academic excellence, and global citizenship. Enrollment exceeds 45,500 and students benefit from an active alumni network with nearly 460,000 members. Candidates considering a nursing degree online can enroll in UW's registered nurse to bachelor of science in nursing (RN-to-BSN) program and earn their degree in 18-36 months.
The program comprises 24-30 credits and includes courses like chronic care management, information and health technology, and community health nursing. Students also complete one 60-hour clinical experience. Online courses follow a seven-week format. Candidates access coursework through the Canvas online learning management system and enjoy online tutoring, career services, and technical support.
- Program(s): RN-to-BSN
- Campus: Madison, Wisconsin
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Higher Learning Commission and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Tuition: $495 per credit for in-state; $1,657 per credit for out-of-state
- Admission Requirements: Associate degree in nursing or at least 24 transferable credits; minimum 2.5 GPA; official transcripts; one letter of recommendation
- Minimum Time Commitment: 18 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 99%
- School site: Tuition | Financial aid
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Western Carolina UniversityLocation
Cullowhee, NC
Tuition$15021
Graduation Rate62%
WCU strives to accommodate diverse learning needs by offering affordable tuition rates and accessible distance education. Students can access over 155 options, including an online registered nurse (RN) to bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program. The WCU School of Nursing's RN-to-BSN degree lets RNs progress to the next level in their careers.
The program does not include any in-person components, and students can earn their degree in four semesters. The 30-credit curriculum includes 24 core credits and six elective credits. WCU offers a variety of services for online students, including tutoring, academic counseling, and technical support.
- Program(s): RN-to-BSN
- Campus: Cullowhee, North Carolina
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Tuition: $3,500 total program cost in-state; $9,500 total program cost out-of-state
- Admission Requirements: Valid RN license; minimum 2.5 GPA; associate degree in nursing from an accredited school
- Minimum Time Commitment: About four semesters
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 99%
- School site: Tuition | Financial aid
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California State University-ChicoLocation
Chico, CA
Tuition$14156
Graduation Rate66%
Chico State has offered postsecondary coursework for over 130 years and ranks among the West's top public universities. The institution also boasts the lowest average student debt nationwide. Chico State's master of science in nursing (MSN) program lets candidates earn their nursing degree online while remaining employed.
The 30-credit MSN curriculum includes a 16-unit nursing leadership concentration and a 14-unit nurse educator specialization. Core courses include financial management and instructional processes in nursing education. Candidates must complete two of three culminating courses, which include a nursing professional paper, a master's project, and a master's thesis. This program also includes a practicum course.
- Program(s): MSN
- Campus: Chico, California
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Tuition: $31,430 per academic year
- Admission Requirements: Bachelor's in nursing from an accredited school; California registered nurse license; minimum 3.0 GPA
- Minimum Time Commitment: About five semesters
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97.33%
- School site: Tuition | Financial aid
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San Jose State UniversityLocation
San Jose, CA
Tuition$14519
Graduation Rate65%
Committed to fostering diversity and inclusion, SJSU enrolls over 36,000 students and offers a vast alumni network with over 270,000 members. Nursing professionals considering a doctoral degree can earn their degree online at the university in 23 months. The doctor of nursing practice (DNP) curriculum prepares graduates for careers as health policy leaders and clinical scholars.
Courses include application of theories in advanced nursing practice, principles of epidemiology, and translating evidence into reflective practice. This program requires multiple practicum experiences. Admission requires a master's in nursing, a 3.0 GPA at minimum, and an interview with program coordinators.
- Program(s): DNP
- Campus: San Jose, California
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission and seeking accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Tuition: $7,635 per semester
- Admission Requirements: Master's in nursing from an accredited program; minimum 3.0 GPA; interview; U.S. citizenship or permanent residency; unencumbered RN license
- Minimum Time Commitment: 23 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: N/A
- School site: Tuition | Financial aid
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University of North FloridaLocation
Jacksonville, FL
Tuition$10809
Graduation Rate59%
UNF strives to accommodate working professionals through distance education as it emphasizes critical thinking, academic excellence, and social responsibility. The Brooks School of Nursing offers a registered nurse to bachelor of science in nursing (RN-to-BSN) bridge program that does not include any on-campus components.
Candidates pursuing the 60-credit degree can receive up to 30 credits for prior coursework. Courses include community partnerships, perspectives in chronicity, and leadership management concepts in nursing. Online classes follow an eight-week format and students complete two courses each semester. UNF provides multiple resources including graduate advising, library services, online tutoring, and success coaching.
- Program(s): RN-to-BSN
- Campus: Jacksonville, Florida
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Tuition: $105 per credit for in-state; 562 for out-of-state
- Admission Requirements: Associate of applied science or associate of science in nursing from an accredited program; minimum 2.8 GPA; active RN license
- Minimum Time Commitment: About one year
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96.4%
- 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.
Explore Other Online Nursing Programs
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