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.
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.
Featured Online RN-to-BSN Programs
Top Online Nursing Schools 2023
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These rankings include
#1 Best Accredited Online Nursing Programs of 2023
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 of 2023
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 of 2023
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 of 2023
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 of 2023
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 of 2023
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 of 2023
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 of 2023
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 of 2023
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 of 2023
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.
Types of Nursing Degrees and Specializations
Whatever education level you have or would like to attain, you can find a nursing career to match. Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) need only a high school diploma or GED certificate and successful completion of a training course, while some levels of nurse practitioner careers require a doctorate in nursing. You can explore accredited online nursing programs for many of these options, in addition to on-campus programs.
Explore different online nursing degrees and credentials and how to earn them... you just might find your next career step!
Certified Nursing Assistant
Working as a certified nursing assistant (CNA), can be a solid choice for somebody who wants to start working and earning money as soon as possible, or who isn't sure about a career in nursing. Many community colleges, some high schools, and even some hospitals and healthcare systems offer CNA courses.
The exact number of hours in these programs varies by state, but is usually approximately 150 hours. CNAs primarily provide basic nursing care under the supervision of an RN and assist patients with tasks such as dressing, eating, and bathing.
Once you complete the course, you must pass the certification examination to work as a CNA. While the pay is not competitive with other nursing jobs, becoming a CNA can be a very low-cost introduction to a career in nursing.
Licensed Practical Nurse
Becoming a licensed practical nurse (LPN), is an enticing option for students interested in a quick program that allows them to start working in healthcare ASAP at a step up from a CNA role. LPNs typically do not require a degree for licensure, just a certificate/diploma that takes about a year to complete. After finishing the program, you can take the NCLEX-PN and earn your LPN license
Given the current nursing shortage, LPNs are in high demand. Becoming an LPN can be a low-cost and short-term way to make a career pivot.
While LPNs and RNs share many of the same responsibilities, RNs have a larger scope of practice and typically enjoy higher salaries and more leadership opportunities than LPNs. As a result, you may be interested in applying to on-campus or online LPN-to-RN programs.
Registered Nurse
There are two pathways to becoming an RN — earning an ADN or BSN. Either degree prepares you to take the NCLEX-RN and earn an RN license, but the BSN is more valuable if you want a higher-level position or want to earn an MSN later in your career.
RNs conduct medical testing, provide treatment, and educate patients under the supervision of an APRN or a physician. RNs work not only in healthcare settings, but also in facilities such as military bases, prisons, and nonprofits.
RNs are in tremendous demand because of the current nursing shortage and the aging Baby Boomer population. A nursing degree and RN license can be a very fruitful investment in your career.
ADN
An associate's degree in nursing (ADN) is the shorter route to a career as an RN, usually taking between two to three years to complete. While a high school diploma or GED certificate is required for this program, admission requirements tend to be less strict than BSN programs.
After completing your ADN, taking the NCLEX-RN examination, and earning a nursing license, you can become an registered nurse (RN). However, many employers prefer a BSN and view the BSN as the minimum entry-level degree - so make sure to do your research before starting a program.
BSN
A bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) typically takes four years to earn, though it may take less if you have other nursing credentials or transferable college credits. You must have a high school diploma or GED certificate; at least some science and math classes; and, depending on how competitive the program is, a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Once you have a BSN through a nursing program online or on-campus program, you are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN examination, earn a nursing license, and start working as an entry-level registered nurse (RN).
MSN
If you want higher pay or more professional autonomy, a master of science in nursing (MSN) can prepare you to become a nurse practitioner or advanced practice RN (APRN). Depending on your state regulations, you may even be able to practice independently.
Most MSN programs take 2-3 years to complete and require a BSN and a 3.0 GPA. Some colleges have an RN-to-MSN bridge program that can be an accelerated option for nurses with an ADN.
An MSN is an excellent option for nurses who want to advance financially, have more career independence, or both.
Licensed Nurse Practitioner
Nurse practitioners (NPs) are nurses who have earned an MSN or doctor of nursing practice (DNP) from an accredited on-campus or online nursing school and passed the certification examination for their specialty.
Unlike medical school, MSN programs focus on just one population or specialty, such as family care or acute pediatric care. An NP license authorizes you only to practice in that specialty or population. If your state offers full practice authority, you can even practice independently as an NP.
NP programs are either MSN or DNP programs, though some schools offer certification options that allow existing NPs to change specialties without having to repeat a full program from scratch.
Family Nurse Practitioner
Family practice is the most common NP specialty. Family nurse practitioners (FNPs) are licensed to act as primary care providers. These professionals can order medical tests, diagnose conditions, and prescribe treatment.
FNPs work in a number of settings, including hospitals and health systems, independent practices, and other healthcare settings. Depending on the state and workplace, they may work independently or under the supervision of a physician. They may also supervise RNs and other nursing staff.
A typical MSN FNP program takes 2-3 years to complete and includes extensive fieldwork in family practice settings. Some programs offer hybrid or online options, though you may need to find your own fieldwork placement for online nursing programs.
Mental Health Nursing
Demand for mental health nursing is growing in most parts of the country, especially in areas affected by the opioid crisis. You can start your career in mental health nursing by taking an entry-level RN job in an institution that offers mental health care. As you advance in your career, however, you may want to consider becoming an APRN or earning certification.
Mental health nurses may collaborate with other mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists or counselors.
Mental health nursing, like public health nursing, is a master's or certification program rather than a BSN program. RNs or APRNs can work in mental health nursing.
Critical Care Nursing
Critical care nurses care for patients with unstable health from illness or injuries. They are sometimes also called intensive care unit (ICU) nurses. Depending on the hospital, they may work in neonatal, pediatric, or adult ICU settings.
Like other nursing specialties, RN programs online or on-campus cover the basics of critical care nursing. Nurses seeking to specialize can take continuing education courses and pursue certification. This field calls for advanced collaboration skills and quick thinking in crises.
Most critical care nurses learn on the job and pursue continuing education to become certified in critical care or in critical care specialty topics.
Medical-Surgical Nursing
Medical-surgical nurses provide patient care before and after surgical procedures. The majority of this care takes place in hospital inpatient settings, but it can also occur in other settings, such as a plastic surgery office or in a patient's home during recovery. The role also involved patient or family education, such as teaching patients or those helping them how to treat wounds and how to look for signs of infection.
There is no degree program for medical-surgical nurses. Instead, medical-surgical nurses can pursue certification in medical-surgical nursing through continuing education, work experience, and passing certifying board examinations.
Clinical Nurse Specialist
Clinical nurse specialists (CNS) are APRNs who specialize in a particular population and have passed the CNS certification examination in their specialty field. While they may engage in hands-on patient care, their primary focus is acting as a leader and educator.
They focus on identifying best practices and ensuring hospital staff knows how to use them through education, developing procedures, or other leadership tools.
To become a CNS, you must earn an MSN, pass the certification examination, and apply for a state CNS license.
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.
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 from an accredited nursing program.
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)
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
Can I earn a nursing degree completely online?
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.
Can you become a nurse without a degree?
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.
How long does it take to become an RN?
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).
What courses will you take in a registered nursing program?
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.
What type of nurse is most in demand?
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.