Ready to launch a rewarding nursing career without sacrificing your current commitments? This directory is your essential resource for finding high-quality online nursing programs*. Whether you are a working professional, a busy parent, or living in a remote area, these programs combine excellent education with the flexibility you need.
*NOTE: Our rankings are compiled using the latest institutional data sourced directly from the U.S. Department of Education. Tuition is subject to change due to factors such as yearly increases and the student's number of transfer credits.
Chapel Hill, North Carolina
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the CCNE.
Los Angeles, California
University of California, Los Angeles is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the CCNE.
North Worcester, Massachusetts
University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the CCNE.
Tallahassee, Florida
Florida State University is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE.
Gainesville, Florida
University of Florida is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the CCNE.
Madison, Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin, Madison is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the CCNE.
Coral Gables, Florida
University of Miami is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the CCNE.
Newark, Delaware
University of Delaware is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the CCNE.
Amherst, Massachusetts
University of Massachusetts, Amherst is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the CCNE.
Galloway, New Jersey
Stockton University is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the CCNE.
Athens, Ohio
Ohio University, Main Campus is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the CCNE.
University Park, Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania State University, Main Campus is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the CCNE.
Binghamton, New York
Binghamton University is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the CCNE.
Bryan, Texas
Texas A & M University, College Station is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the CCNE.
Harrisonburg, Virginia
James Madison University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the CCNE.
Austin, Texas
The University of Texas at Austin is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the CCNE.
Columbus, Ohio
Ohio State University, Main Campus is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the ACME, CCNE, and CNEA.
Memphis, Tennessee
The University of Tennessee Health Science Center is a public and non-profit State Institution. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE.
Springfield, Illinois
St. John's College, Department of Nursing is a public and non-profit State Institution. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE.
Baltimore, Maryland
University of Maryland, Baltimore is a public and non-profit State Institution. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the CCNE.
Nashville, Tennessee
Vanderbilt University is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the ACME and CCNE.
Long Beach, California
California State University, Long Beach is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the CCNE.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Marquette University is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of , hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the ACME, ACEN, and CCNE.
West Lafayette, Indiana
Purdue University, Main Campus is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the CCNE.
Washington, District of Columbia
Georgetown University is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE.
Atlanta, Georgia
Emory University is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the ACME, ACEN, and CCNE.
Phoenix, Arizona
Arizona State University is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the CCNE.
Baltimore, Maryland
Johns Hopkins University is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE.
Galveston, Texas
The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston is a public and non-profit State Institution. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE.
Salt Lake City, Utah
University of Utah is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the CCNE.
Wheeling, West Virginia
Wheeling University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE.
Durham, New Hampshire
University of New Hampshire, Main Campus is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the CCNE.
Kingston, Rhode Island
University of Rhode Island is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the CCNE.
Green Bay, Wisconsin
Bellin College is a public and non-profit State Institution. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the CCNE.
Morgantown, West Virginia
West Virginia University is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the CCNE.
San Antonio, Texas
The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio is a public and non-profit State Institution. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE.
Anaheim, California
California Career Institute is a public and non-profit State Institution. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the and ACEN.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
University of Pennsylvania is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the CCNE.
New York, New York
University of Rochester is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE.
Camarillo, California
California State University, Channel Islands is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the CCNE.
Irvine, California
University of California, Irvine is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the CCNE.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh Campus is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the CCNE.
Orlando, Florida
University of Central Florida is a public and non-profit State Institution. The institution offers a variety of , hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the CCNE.
Fairfax, Virginia
George Mason University is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the CCNE.
Dekalb, Illinois
Northern Illinois University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE.
Chicago, Illinois
DePaul University is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the CCNE.
Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania is a public and non-profit State Institution. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the CCNE.
Cincinnati, Ohio
University of Cincinnati is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the ACEN, ACME, CAAHEP, and CCNE.
Houston, Texas
The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston is a public and non-profit State Institution. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE.
Ann Arbor, Michigan
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor is a public and non-profit National University. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE.
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), known as Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) in California and Texas, provide nursing care under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) or physicians. LPNs often handle tasks such as monitoring vital signs, administering medications, and assisting with daily patient activities.
An online LPN/LVN diploma program provides students with the foundational knowledge and skills to pass the NLCEX-PN and work in a healthcare setting. These programs offer a combination of theoretical coursework and clinical training. The curriculum typically covers subjects such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, patient care, and nursing ethics. An LPN/LVN diploma is often a stepping stone to more advanced nursing degrees.
Online schools can deliver the majority, if not all, of the theoretical coursework through a digital platform. However, clinical training still necessitates an in-person component. The number of hours of clinical training varies by school. Many online LPN programs also incorporate virtual simulations and interactive modules to enhance the learning experience.
Opting for an online LPN diploma offers several advantages, including flexibility in scheduling, the ability to learn at one's own pace, and the convenience of accessing course materials from any location.
Learn more about our Fastest Licensed Practical Nurse Programs.
Approximately 1,080 community colleges, vocational schools, and universities confer Associate Degrees in Nursing (ADNs) across all 50 states. (Collegescorecard.ed.gov) Earning an ADN from a state-approved nursing program allows prospective nurses to sit for the NLCEX-RN exam. ADNs can be earned in two years for those without a post-secondary education, making it the fastest way to begin a career as a registered nurse.
The ADN Degree provides essential education in nursing theory and clinical skills. The most common employment for ADN graduates are entry-level roles in a variety of healthcare settings, including clinics, nursing homes, and hospitals.
Many RNs can choose to obtain certifications and pursue advanced degrees that specialize in various nursing fields, such as pediatrics, gerontology, oncology, critical care, and labor and delivery. Employers commonly ask RNs to continue their education with a Bachelor of Science (BSN) degree or a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).
Roughly 1,060 colleges and universities confer pre-licensure Baccalaureate's of Science in Nursing (BSNs) across all 50 states. (Collegescorecard.ed.gov) Earning a BSN from a state-approved nursing program allows prospective nurses to sit for the NLCEX-RN exam. BSNs are typically earned in four years for those without a post-secondary education.
For working RNs with an Associate's Degree, BSNs can be earned through an online RN bridge program. Many RNs attend these bridge programs to earn a higher salary or as a requirement of employment for a specific role.
In terms of pre-licensure programs, there are several differences between an ADN and a BSN with the choice coming down to personal preferences and career goals. Some of the key differences include:
For many, the question of ADN or BSN is just a question of timing, as there is discussion within the nursing community as to whether BSNs will be required for all nursing roles in the future. Approximately 72% of RNs hold a baccalaureate degree or higher degree. (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
There are over 550 RN to Bachelor's Programs accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), covering all 50 states. RN to BSN Programs are offered mostly by universities including online-only schools.
Also known as bridge programs, there are several important reasons for obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) including:
A survey from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) showed that 77% of employers strongly prefer nurses with a BSN, while 41% require a BSN for a new hire. Further, the Institute of Medicine’s (IOM’s) "Future of Nursing report" recommends that 80% of nurses should achieve their to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree level by 2020.
Discover the best RN to BSN programs in the following states:
Online ABSN Programs, or Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs, offer a fast-track route to enter the nursing field. Designed for those who already hold a non-nursing bachelor's degree, these programs provide rigorous online coursework combined with clinical experiences, allowing students to sit for the NCLEX-RN and earn their BSN in a shorter timeframe.
There are over 300 ABSN Programs accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). These programs are offered at colleges and universities in all 50 states.
Learn more about our Fastest Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing Programs.
Nursing professionals looking to advance their careers can pursue an Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), a graduate-level program offering advanced education in theory, research, and clinical practice. There are two common types of RN to MSN programs:
Those with non-nursing bachelor's degrees can earn their MSN via Direct-Entry Master's in Nursing Programs, or via an ABSN degree followed by an MSN degree.
RN to MSN Bridge Programs will vary quite a bit depending on the area of specialization. There's a marked difference between advanced clinical roles, known as Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) degrees, and non-clinical roles such as informatics, research or public health. Non-clinical programs may be able to be completed 100% online, whereas ARPN degrees are typically offered partially online with in-person clinicals required.
Popular APRN Masters Degrees include:
Within NP Programs students can choose to refine their focus even greater into specialties such as Family NP (FNP), Women's Health NP (WHNP), and more.
There are multiple pathways to earning your RN license; these nursing education pathways include
Registered Nurses (RNs) responsibilities include but are not limited to:
Additionally, RN responsibilities will vary depending on specialization and workplace setting.
Becoming a Registered Nurse (RN) online is a bit of a misnomer because while certain components of nursing education can be completed online, clinical practice is an essential part of nursing education and cannot be done online. However, there are hybrid programs available, frequently referred to as "online" programs, that offer online coursework combined with in-person clinical training.
Online nursing programs offer a variety of benefits to students. Here are some of the primary advantages:
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