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A popular career path, nursing is in higher demand than ever. If you'd like to jump right into the field, an online bachelor's degree offers a flexible and convenient route to becoming a registered nurse (RN). Some of the best nursing schools offer online nursing programs.
Online nursing schools also allow you to enroll in the most affordable school without having to relocate. Explore our picks for the best accredited online nursing programs and get tips to jumpstart your nursing career today.
Reasons to Get Your Nursing Degree Online
- You'll get specialized training for an in-demand healthcare role.
- You can apply for an RN license and start working immediately after graduating.
- RNs can increase their earning potential and move into leadership roles with a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN).
- RN-to-BSN programs allow current RNs to earn a bachelor's in less time — usually in one year.
- A BSN prepares you to apply to graduate programs to become a nurse practitioner or other advanced practice RN.
- Online degrees are flexible and generally more affordable than on-campus programs.
Did You Know?
Nursing is one of the most popular jobs in the U.S. — in May 2021, there were more than 3 million registered nurses. More than half of all BSN completion programs let you take at least part of your nursing program online. The ongoing nursing shortage means there will continue to be high demand for RNs. Nursing dates all the way back to the Roman Empire.
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How Important Is Accreditation for Online Nursing Schools?
Accreditation is especially important for online nursing programs. Your nursing program is a major step in qualifying for a nursing license. If your program is unaccredited, you may be unable to apply for licensure.
An online degree will be just as respected as a traditional degree, so long as it's accredited.
Here are the two major programmatic accreditors to look for as you compare nursing programs:
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Top Online Nursing Schools
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These rankings include
#1 Best Accredited Online Nursing Programs
Ohio State University-Main Campus
Columbus, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Avg. Cost per Credit
In-State | $491
Out-of-State | $511
Credits to Graduate
30
The Ohio State University's online RN-to-BSN program offers a 12-to-15-month course of study for RNs looking to build upon the skills they learned in their diploma or associate degree in nursing (ADN) program. Coursework focuses on nursing advancement, school health services, and primary care.
Students must complete general education requirements either before or during the program. To apply, you must hold an ADN or nursing diploma.
#2 Best Accredited Online Nursing Programs
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Avg. Cost per Credit
In-State | $179.19
Out-of-State | $715.80
Credits to Graduate
120 (30 for RN-to-BSN)
The University of Central Florida's online BS in nursing program emphasizes health promotion and clinical nursing practice. In addition, the program prepares students for leadership roles, such as nursing manager and chief nursing officer, and provides students with a solid foundation for graduate study in nursing.
UCF offers several tracks for its online nursing programs, including RN-to-BSN and ASN-to-BSN. Applicants must have RN licensure before applying.
#3 Best Accredited Online Nursing Programs
University of Florida-Online
Gainesville, FL - 4 years
- Online
Programmatic Accreditation
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Avg. Cost per Credit
In-State | $129.18
Out-of-State | $552.62
Credits to Graduate
120
The University of Florida's online BSN program is designed to help working RNs further their education and careers. Students develop the skills and knowledge necessary to take on leadership roles in nursing. Potential jobs for graduates include hospice nurse, ICU nurse, surgical nurse, pediatric nurse, and school nurse.
UF's program accepts nurses with a Florida RN license or enhanced licensure through the Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC). Applicants must have already completed several general education requirements as well.
#4 Best Accredited Online Nursing Programs
Florida International University
Miami, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Avg. Cost per Credit
In-State | $239.51
Out-of-State | $356.57
Credits to Graduate
30
Florida International University's online RN-to-BSN program helps licensed RNs demonstrate their marketability and value to employers. Coursework includes topics such as cross-cultural care, nursing leadership, and community health. You can complete the program in as little as one year or three semesters (including a summer semester).
RNs with transferable credits from other programs may apply. Students must complete at least 30 upper-level credits at FIU.
#5 Best Accredited Online Nursing Programs
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Avg. Cost per Credit
In-State | $452
Out-of-State | $452
Credits to Graduate
24-30
UW-Madison's RN-to-BSN online program builds on the technical knowledge gained in an ADN program and adds the professional experience nurses typically need in order to take on managerial positions in healthcare. After earning a BSN, you can pursue leadership roles in nursing, teaching, management, or another professional specialization.
To apply, you must be a licensed RN. Applicants must also submit high school and college transcripts and a letter of recommendation.
#6 Best Accredited Online Nursing Programs
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Avg. Cost per Credit
In-State | $330
Out-of-State | $330
Credits to Graduate
120
Liberty University's BSN program is a 100% online pathway specifically geared toward working RNs. The asynchronous program allows you to study at your own pace. It can be completed in as little as 12 months. Nurses will graduate with the skills and knowledge necessary to improve patient outcomes.
Liberty is a Christian university that grounds coursework in biblical principles. Applicants must already be licensed RNs.
#7 Best Accredited Online Nursing Programs
Mississippi College
Clinton, MS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Avg. Cost per Credit
In-State | $307
Out-of-State | $307
Credits to Graduate
30
Mississippi College's RN-to-BSN online program allows working RNs to earn their BSN in as little as a year. The program's coursework uses evidence-based practice to teach nurses the information and critical reasoning necessary to provide exceptional patient care to diverse populations. You'll also learn management and leadership concepts to help you advance in your nursing career.
Mississippi College is a Christian university that incorporates faith-based principles into its coursework. Applicants must submit an online application, hold active RN licensure, and have a minimum 2.0 GPA.
#8 Best Accredited Online Nursing Programs
University of Rochester
Rochester, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Avg. Cost per Credit
In-State | $600 (Finger Lakes region only)
Out-of-State | $1,200
Credits to Graduate
32
The University of Rochester's online RN-to-BSN program can transform your nursing career in as little as 16 months. The school helps students stay ahead of industry expectations, expand their patient care skills, and pursue new careers.
Critical thinking lies at the core of the BSN program's coursework. Rochester even gives all nursing students an iPad so they can complete online coursework with the necessary technology.
You can start the program in the spring, summer, or fall. You'll work with an advisor to develop a degree plan based on the number of credits you have when you start the program.
#9 Best Accredited Online Nursing Programs
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Avg. Cost per Credit
In-State | $277.77
Out-of-State | $277.77
Credits to Graduate
30
UT Rio Grande Valley's RN-to-BSN online program allows RNs to level up in their careers while working full time. The online program teaches students about nursing leadership theories and healthcare management so they can pursue leadership roles. Coursework also emphasizes how to care for individuals, families, groups, and communities.
To apply, you must be a licensed RN, have a minimum 2.5 GPA, submit college transcripts, and fill out an online application.
#10 Best Accredited Online Nursing Programs
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Avg. Cost per Credit
In-State | $320
Out-of-State | $320
Credits to Graduate
30
Southern New Hampshire University's RN-to-BSN online program gives RNs a leg up in the competitive and constantly evolving healthcare industry. You'll learn how to further your clinical development, practice evidence-based care, and promote population health. Asynchronous classes let you learn on your own schedule.
The university even offers an accelerated RN-to-MSN (master of science in nursing) pathway.
SNHU does not have an application fee and does not require SAT or ACT scores.
How Much Does a Nursing Degree Cost?
While nursing degree costs can vary greatly, you can generally expect to spend anywhere from $38,000 to $73,000 on a BSN degree.
You'll spend less if you pursue an associate degree in nursing (ADN) at a two-year college. Be aware, however, that many states and employers require or strongly prefer RNs to have a bachelor's degree in nursing.
An RN-to-BSN program for nurses who already have an associate degree typically costs $100-$600 per credit. These bridge programs last 1-2 years.
If you enroll in an accredited online nursing program, make sure to budget for extra expenses, like a laptop, books, supplies, and scrubs. Some online programs charge a technology or distance learning fee as well.
You should also be prepared to pay for any travel or in-person practicums, the NCLEX-RN, and state licensure.
How Much Can You Make With an Online Nursing Degree?
Registered nurses earn a median annual salary of $77,600 as of May 2021, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
That said, nurses' salaries vary greatly depending on their location, specialty, and experience. RNs with a BSN can usually qualify for higher-paying leadership positions than nurses with just an associate degree.
Your location can also influence your salary. Use the following map to see the median annual salaries of nurses in each state.
As you can see, nurses in states like California, Hawaii, and New York typically earn more than RNs in states like Alabama, South Dakota, and Mississippi.
If you get a graduate degree in nursing, you may qualify for even higher salaries than those on the map. Advanced practice RNs, such as nurse practitioners and nurse anesthetists, earn a median salary of over $117,000 a year!
How to Become a Registered Nurse: 6-Step Overview
There are key steps you must take in order to become an RN. For example, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam and apply for a state nursing license.
You do, however, have a few education options you can take to qualify for that test and license.
1 Define Your Goals
As you begin your journey to becoming a registered nurse, consider your career and educational goals.
If your budget and timeline mean an ADN is the right move for you, be sure that an ADN is sufficient for the type of job and workplace you want.
Many employers prefer nurses who have a BSN, especially for leadership positions. You can also earn a higher salary with a BSN. On the other hand, a BSN takes four years to complete and will likely cost a lot more.
Research the job requirements for the nursing careers you're interested in to help define your educational goals.
2 Compare Accredited Nursing Programs
The next step is to compare accredited online nursing programs. Look at cost, course structure, flexibility, courses offered, networking opportunities, and student resources.
For example, some programs use a hybrid structure, while others are entirely online. Regardless, you'll want to make sure the programs you consider have proper accreditation.
Two major nursing school accreditors are the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Students who already have a nursing diploma or ADN might want to consider bridge programs that help expedite the completion of a BSN.
3 Earn Your Nursing Degree
The two main degree options for becoming a nurse are the ADN and BSN. While working toward your degree, you'll learn foundational knowledge and essential skills around healthcare and patient care.
Nursing degrees also include clinical components, or practicums, in which you use what you learned in school with real patients.
4 Pass the NCLEX-RN
To become an RN, you'll need to do more than just earn your degree in nursing — you'll also need to pass an exam.
The NCLEX-RN tests your application and analysis of the knowledge you learned in school. You'll be tested on your ability to make nursing judgments and think critically.
Questions cover four major categories:
- Safe and effective care environment
- Health promotion and maintenance
- Psychosocial integrity
- Physiological integrity
The NCLEX-RN costs $200 and typically takes 2-3 hours to complete. If you don't pass the exam the first time around, you can take it again after 45 days.
5 Apply for State Licensure
The final step to becoming an RN is to apply for state licensure.
Each state sets its own licensure requirements. Some of the most common requirements for becoming an RN are:
- Pass a criminal background check.
- Earn a nursing diploma, an ADN, or a BSN from an accredited nursing program.
- Meet all practicum requirements.
- Pass the NCLEX-RN.
When applying for your license, you'll need to provide proof of citizenship and nursing program transcripts. You'll also have to pay an application fee and license fee.
6 Renew Your License as Needed
How often you'll need to renew your nursing license will vary by state.
For example, Alabama licenses need to be renewed every two years. In New York, it's every three years, and in North Dakota, it's every year.
You'll usually need to meet a few requirements to renew your nursing license. These also vary by state, but may include a set number of CEU hours, a certification, or a specific class.
Q&A With Real Registered Nurses and BSN Grads
Q: What attracted you to the RN program you ultimately chose?
"There were two main factors for me. The first was having access to 1-on-1 assistance throughout the program. Smaller cohorts are more likely to have this. The other influencing factor was job placement."
"At the time, Texas Woman's University (TWU) … was one of the cheapest schools in the top 10 best nursing schools in Texas. I applied to a few Texas schools for my two-year prerequisite courses and was accepted, but ultimately I chose TWU because of cost."
Q: In your opinion, what is the value of earning a BSN?
"ADNs are becoming more obsolete and phased out. … It is valuable to earn a BSN right off the bat because you are more competitive on your application and often have a slightly broader science background that will aid in your nursing school courses."
"Earning a BSN gives you an edge above others who may only have a diploma or associate degree [in nursing]."
Q: What is something that surprised you about the field of nursing?
"I was most surprised at how much advanced medicine nurses are required to learn. Most nurses have shared information with doctors, which allows them to monitor and treat patients outside of doctors' rounds."
Q: What is your biggest piece of advice to students considering becoming RNs?
"If you can, try to shadow before you start your college courses to make sure that nursing is the right career for you. It is a valuable career, but can be emotionally, physically, and mentally draining if you are not fit for it."
"Be sure that you have a passion for nursing. Contrary to popular belief, a nursing degree is not easier than studying medicine. It may take fewer years, but it requires serious commitment and sacrifices to manage practicals, theory lectures, and rigorous examinations."
Frequently Asked Questions About Registered Nursing Programs
Yes, you can earn a nursing degree 100% online. In fact, many of the best nursing schools offer fully online degrees. This applies to associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees in nursing.
Students complete coursework online through a distance learning platform. You'll then need to fulfill clinical requirements locally and in person.
Yes, you can become a nurse without a college degree. A few states permit you to become an RN with only a nursing diploma. This diploma provides you with a foundation in biology and social sciences, in addition to clinical experience with patients.
Alternatively, you can become a licensed practical nurse (LPN) with a diploma. These programs normally take about a year.
In general, it takes 1-4 years to become an RN. The specific timeline for becoming an RN will depend on the educational path you take, whether that's a nursing diploma (one year), an ADN (two years), or a BSN (four years).
Typically, an RN program will include courses like basic nursing care, family health assessment, and nursing leadership. You'll also learn about physiology, psychology, microbiology, and pharmacology.
Nurse practitioners are not only the most in-demand nurses but also the fastest-growing job in the U.S. The BLS projects a 46% growth rate for nurse practitioners between 2021 and 2031. Nurse practitioners earn a median annual salary of $120,680 as of May 2021.
To become a nurse practitioner, you'll need a master's degree in nursing.
All rankings and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by the ASO Rankings Team.