The healthcare industry has been growing rapidly and is expected to continue growing in the coming years. The demand for registered nurses (RNs) and nurse practitioners (NPs) is projected to increase significantly.
With this in mind, more individuals are pursuing nursing jobs. However, it is important to choose the right nursing program that meets the needs of aspiring nurses. With so many online nursing programs to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is right for you.
We have researched and analyzed the top online nursing degree programs to help you make an informed decision. In this article, we will discuss the top online nursing programs, their features, and their benefits.
Top online nursing programs
Most of the best nursing schools offer several online nursing programs that provide quality education and training for aspiring nurses. However, choosing the right nursing programs online can be overwhelming.
Below is a comprehensive review of the top nursing online programs that meet the needs of aspiring nurses.
1. Chamberlain University
Chamberlain University has over 130 years of experience in nursing education and provides two options for earning an online bachelor's degree in nursing:
The pre-licensure BSN
The RN to BSN pathways
The pre-licensure program is a hybrid model that combines virtual instruction with hands-on clinical rotations. In contrast, the RN to BSN pathway is 100% online.
Let’s check their online RN programs’ details:
Program length: Three years
Required credits for graduation: 120
Cost per credit: $675 to $699
2. University of Cincinnati - RN to BSN program
The University of Cincinnati College of Nursing is dedicated to offering comprehensive online degree programs that cater to the diverse needs of nursing professionals.
They offer accelerated entry and post-graduate certificate programs to help students with specific criteria or those looking to enhance their knowledge in their respective fields. They offer RN programs online.
Here are the details of their RN to BSN program:
Program length: 2 semesters (full-time), 3-5 semesters (part-time)
Required credits for graduation: 24
Cost per credit: $549/credit hour in-state, $1,188 out-of-state
3. University of Cincinnati - Doctor of Nursing program
The University of Cincinnati College of Nursing is committed to preparing a new generation of nurses who are equipped to meet the evolving needs of the healthcare industry. As well as the previous nursing course, this university also offers a nursing degree online program for those looking to get their Doctor of Nursing.
Program length: 3 years (9 semesters)
Required credits for graduation: 78-83
Cost per credit: $746/credit hour in-state, $1,333 out-of-state
4. Bristol Community College
Bristol provides nursing students with an opportunity to earn a bachelor's nursing degree aimed toward those already pursuing studies at partner colleges. Through a partnership with Emmanuel College, Bristol offers an online learning education to complete an associate's degree in nursing.
Successful completion of Bristol's associate degree in nursing will allow for conditional admission into Fitchburg State's 100% online RN-to-BSN program, allowing students to maximize their associate's degree right away.
Program length: At least 16 months
Required credits for graduation: 40-96
Cost per credit: At least $11,200
5. Aspen University
Aspen University has developed a unique hybrid format for individuals seeking to earn an online Bachelor's degree in Nursing. This program offers online coursework combined with in-person skills labs, seminars, community-based clinical experiences, and clinical simulations.
Specifically designed for students who do not have a nursing license and have minimal to no nursing experience, this program provides comprehensive hands-on training to supplement the online curriculum.
Program length: 3 years
Required credits for graduation: 120
Cost per credit: $180 to $495
6. East Carolina University - RN to BSN program
East Carolina University is dedicated to producing nursing professionals who are adept at blending the scientific and artistic aspects of nursing to deliver exceptional patient care.
Their programs, available at every level of nursing education, instill in students the importance of advocating for their patients and communicating evidence-based treatment options to both patients and their families.
Here are the details of one of their RN nursing programs online:
Program length: 16 months
Required credits for graduation: 33
Cost per credit: $204.79/credit hour in-state, $883 out-of-state
7. East Carolina University - Master of Science in Nursing program
East Carolina University’s online curriculum offers a range of degree paths to accommodate students with varying levels of nursing experience. They also offer a program for getting the Master of Science in Nursing.
Let’s see the nursing school cost and nursing school duration for the nursing programs at this university:
Program length: 2-3 years, depending on specialty
Required credits for graduation: 40-55, depending on specialty
Cost per credit: $289.55/credit hour in-state, $1,020.05 out-of-state
8. National Park College
National Park College has partnered with Arkansas Tech University to run an RN-to-BSN program to equip nursing students with the necessary skills for a successful career in the field.
It’s among the best RN online programs with the following details:
Program length: At least 12 months
Required credits for graduation: 30 for associate’s, 120 for BSN
Cost per credit: $242.50/credit hour (in-state)
9. Grand Canyon University
Grand Canyon University's College of Nursing offers several nursing degree programs suitable for different candidates, including pre-licensure BSN, RN to BSN for working RNs, and an accelerated BSN or ABSN for students with a non-nursing baccalaureate degree.
All theoretical courses and didactic teaching for these programs are completed online, while the practicum hours must be completed in person.
Program length: 4 years
Required credits for graduation: 123
Cost per credit: $340
10. University of Arizona - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
The University of Arizona offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice for those whose interests lie in research and practice.
Their Ph.D. online nursing programs focus on areas such as precision or health determinants science.
Here are the details:
Program length: 2.5 years full-time
Required credits for graduation: 63
Cost per credit: $991/credit hour
11. University of Arizona - Master of Science in Nursing program
The University of Arizona also offers one of the other best online nursing programs. The program is for a Master of Science in Nursing and has clinical system leadership.
Here are the details of this online nursing school program:
Program length: At least 15 months
Required credits for graduation: 11 courses
Cost per credit: $28,828
12. Cleveland State Community College
Cleveland State Community College offers an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (A.A.S.) program that prepares students to become eligible for the NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) and obtain a Registered Nurse license.
Let’s check the details of this registered nursing program online:
Program length: 5 semesters (6 for evening sequence)
Required credits for graduation: 69
Cost per credit: $168/credit hour in-state, $692/credit hour out-of-state
13. Herzing University
Herzing University provides four pathways to obtain a Bachelor's degree in Nursing online, including BSN for non-nurses, accelerated BSN, pre-nursing, and RN to BSN. These online nursing programs equip students with essential skills and knowledge in providing safe, holistic, and evidence-based quality patient care.
Program length: 3 years
Required credits for graduation: 120
Cost per credit: $695
14. University of Iowa - RN to BSN program
The University of Iowa is among the best online schools for nursing and offers several online degree tracks, particularly for associate degree and diploma-prepared licensed RNs, with the goal of expanding their nursing skills.
The details of this RN program online is:
Program length: 3-5 semesters
Required credits for graduation: 32
Cost per credit: $473/credit hour in-state, $1,394/credit hour out-of-state
15. University of Iowa - Master of Science in Nursing program
The University of Iowa School of Nursing offers many programs to prepare the next generation of nurses to meet the ever-evolving needs of the healthcare industry. Its Master of Science in Nursing program is among the bests:
Program length: 1.5-3 years
Required credits for graduation: 39 credits and 490 practice hours
Cost per credit: $987/credit hour in-state, $1,394/credit hour out-of-state
16. John A. Logan College
John A. Logan College offers an Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program that aims to facilitate career mobility for nurses who have completed a practical nursing program and hold an LPN license with at least a year of practice.
This nursing online program prepares students to be eligible for the NCLEX-RN licensing examination upon completion.
Program length: 4 semesters
Required credits for graduation: 65
Cost per credit: $154/credit hour in-state, $234/credit hour out-of-state
17. Western Governors University
Western Governors University (WGU) provides two options for earning an online Bachelor's degree in Nursing:
The BS Nursing Prelicensure.
The RN to BSN pathways.
Both programs cover general education coursework, introductory medical coursework, and practical clinical experience. Approximately 60% of the coursework for these programs is completed online, while the remaining 40% is devoted to hands-on clinical and lab sessions.
Program length: 4 years
Required credits for graduation: 123
Cost per credit: $6,430
18. Winona State University - RN-BS completion program
Winona State University's nursing program is grounded in the principles of care, ethics, and accountability. The RN-BS completion program features a significant online learning component. Their advanced degree programs require only a few campus days per year, allowing students to balance their education with their work and personal commitments.
Let’s see the details of the RN-BS completion program:
Program length: Full-time and part-time (1.5, 2, 3, or 4 years)
Required credits for graduation: 120 credits (up to 80 can be transferred from an ADN program)
Cost per credit: $277.40/credit hour in-state, $503.60/credit hour out-of-state
19. Winona State University - Nurse Educator Master of Science
Winona State University's nursing program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of evidence-based practice, holistic assessment, chronic disease management, and population-based healthcare. This university’s Nurse Educator Master of Science program is among the bests programs in this online nursing school.
Here are the details of this program:
Program length: 4 semesters and 2 summer sessions
Required credits for graduation: 48 credits and 300 clinical hours
Cost per credit: $38,000
20. Minnesota West Community and Technical College
Minnesota West Community and Technical College provides a Nursing A.S. program specifically tailored for students who have completed a practical nursing program and are already Licensed Practical Nurses.
Besides earning the Nursing A.S. at Minnesota West, students can take advantage of linkage programs with other institutions to pursue further degrees in nursing.
Program length: 4 semesters
Required credits for graduation: 64
Cost per credit: $228.64/credit
Smart’n helps you access online nursing programs
There are many paid and free nursing schools out there offering online nursing programs. If you are interested in the mentioned programs but can’t afford them, it’s better to sign up for nursing school scholarships.
Smart’n is a platform designed to help nursing students pass their NCLEX exam while earning some extra cash. This platform offers two forms of scholarships for those students who are currently studying at a licensed nursing school in North America. Smart’n’s nursing scholarship grants can be a tremendous relief for those who need some financial assistance to support their studies.
Benefits of online nursing programs
Online nursing programs have several features that make them a popular choice for aspiring nurses. These features include:
1. Convenience
One of the most significant features of online nursing programs is their convenience. These programs allow students to study from anywhere at any time, which means that they can balance their studies with other commitments like work or family.
2. Flexibility
Nursing schools online and programs online are flexible, which means that students can study at their own pace. This feature is particularly beneficial for working nurses who need to balance their studies with their work schedules.
3. Quality Education
Nursing school programs online offer the same quality education as traditional nursing programs. Students can access online lectures, interactive discussions, and practical experience through online simulations, all of which contribute to a comprehensive learning experience.
4. Technological Advancements
Online nursing programs use advanced technology to enhance the learning experience. For example, students can interact with professors and peers through online platforms, access course materials on mobile devices, and use simulation software to practice clinical skills.
5. Cost-Effective
Online schools for nursing are often less expensive than traditional nursing programs, which can be a significant factor for students who are looking to minimize their education expenses.
6. Accessibility
Online nursing programs make education more accessible to a wider range of students. Students who live in rural or remote areas or have disabilities that make it difficult to attend traditional classes can benefit from online programs.
7. Career Advancement
Online programs for nursing can help students advance their careers by providing them with the necessary skills and knowledge to take on leadership roles or specialize in a particular area of nursing.
8. Interactive Learning
Online nursing degree programs use advanced technology to provide interactive learning experiences. Students can participate in online discussions, collaborate with peers on group projects, and practice clinical skills using simulation software.
Overall, online nursing programs offer a range of features that make them an excellent option for aspiring nurses. From their convenience and flexibility to the use of advanced technology and cost-effectiveness, nursing programs online provide students with a comprehensive learning experience that can help them achieve their career goals.
Conclusion
Choosing the right nursing program is crucial for individuals who want to pursue a career in nursing or advance their careers. The online nursing programs reviewed in this article provide quality education and training for aspiring nurses. These programs offer flexibility, accessibility, and convenience, making them ideal for individuals who want to earn their nursing degrees while balancing work and personal responsibilities. Each program has its own unique features and benefits, and prospective students should carefully consider their career goals, learning preferences, and financial situation before choosing a program.
FAQs
1. Can I pursue an online nursing program if I am not a registered nurse?
It depends on the program. Some online nursing programs offer a BSN program that is designed for individuals who want to become registered nurses, while others require applicants to have an active RN license.
2. How long does it take to complete an online nursing program?
The duration of an online nursing program varies depending on the level of the program and the student's enrollment status.
3. Are online nursing programs less rigorous than traditional on-campus programs?
No, online nursing programs are just as rigorous as traditional on-campus programs. Online students are expected to meet the same academic standards and complete the same coursework as on-campus students.
4. What career opportunities are available to graduates of online nursing programs?
Graduates of online nursing programs can pursue a wide range of nursing jobs, including registered nurse, nurse practitioner, nurse educator, nurse researcher, and healthcare administrator.
