Best Online Nursing Degrees

James M. Tobin
By
Updated on September 26, 2025
Edited by
Connect with the best online nursing programs. Research key program features and compare opportunities from accredited nursing education providers.

The best online nursing degrees help you qualify for healthcare careers while keeping your educational costs in check. Schools offer these programs across all levels, spanning associate degrees to doctorates. These options include specialized programs like RN-to-BSN bridge programs, which are ideal for registered nurses (RNs) looking to upgrade their education with a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN).

Explore options and connect with accredited programs that can help you get licensed and establish a career in the high-demand nursing field.

Degree at a Glance

  • Typical Program Length: Two years (associate degrees), 1-2 years (RN-to-BSN programs), four years (bachelor’s degrees), 2-3 years (master’s degrees)
  • Typical Admission Requirements: High school diploma (all undergraduate programs), RN license (RN-to-BSN programs), bachelor’s degree plus nursing experience (master’s programs)
  • Top Skills Gained: Clinical nursing, patient assessment, medication administration, wound care, community and individual health management, medical documentation, interpersonal communication
  • Popular Concentrations: Advanced practice registered nursing, clinical nursing specialities, nursing education and leadership, occupational health, primary care nursing
Loading...
Loading...Learn More
Visit Site
Loading...
Loading...Learn More
Visit Site
Loading...
Loading...Learn More
Visit Site
Add up to three schools to compare

Top Nursing Programs

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
#1

New Mexico State University-Main Campus

  • Las Cruces, NM
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

From its campus in Las Cruces, New Mexico State University-Main Campus offers an online master of science in nursing ranks among the best programs in the country. At the public institution, degree-seekers take classes in person and online. The program builds the skills and knowledge necessary for many nursing careers.

The online learning format appeals to busy students who benefit from flexibility in their schedule. Degree candidates strengthen their communication, critical thinking, and analytical skills. Majors work closely with faculty advisors to customize their course of study. Online enrollees benefit from academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.

Learners can take advantage of scholarships, grants, and loans to cover their college costs.

New Mexico State University-Main Campus Numbers:

Online Student Enrollment: 6,244

Online Bachelor's Programs: 12

Online Master's Programs: 16

Admission Rate: 55%

Graduation Rate: 48%

Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No

44%

Online Enrollment

$ 5,875

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

75%

Retention Rate

$21,864

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
55%
Students Enrolled
14,296
Institution Type
Public
#2

Southeast Missouri State University

  • Cape Girardeau, MO
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Located in Cape Girardeau, Southeast Missouri State University offers a top-ranked online RN-to-BSN degree. To meet the needs of a variety of students, the public institution offers in-person and online courses. With this degree, professionals can pursue entry-level roles in diverse fields.

The program's distance learning format appeals to working professionals and busy students. Online nursing courses strengthen in-demand skills like critical thinking and problem-solving. Degree-seekers work closely with faculty advisors to design a custom degree plan based on their interests and professional goals. Student support services like academic advising and career counseling help learners complete the program and transition into the workforce.

At the accredited institution, online enrollees can use federal financial aid programs like the Pell Grant.

Southeast Missouri State University Facts:

Online Student Enrollment: 5,553

Online Bachelor's Programs: 11

Online Master's Programs: 13

Admission Rate: 86%

Graduation Rate: 50%

Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No

52%

Online Enrollment

$ 6,606

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

75%

Retention Rate

$12,636

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
86%
Students Enrolled
10,637
Institution Type
Public
#3

Texas A&M International University

  • Laredo, TX
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

The online RN-to-BSN program at Texas A&M International University ranks among the best programs in the country. The public institution offers a variety of learning formats, including in-person and online courses. The degree prepares graduates for various nursing careers.

Busy students and working professionals benefit from the program's flexible learning format. During general education and major courses, learners strengthen their critical thinking and analytical skills. Faculty advisors recommend a custom degree plan to meet each student's interests and career goals. Student support services like academic advising and career counseling help degree-seekers complete the program and transition into the workforce.

Enrollees may qualify for scholarships, grants, and loans, including federal programs like the Pell Grant.

Texas A&M International University Fast Facts:

Online Student Enrollment: 3,780

Online Bachelor's Programs: 2

Online Master's Programs: 8

Admission Rate: 54%

Graduation Rate: 47%

Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No

46%

Online Enrollment

$ 3,818

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

79%

Retention Rate

$13,946

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
54%
Students Enrolled
8,305
Institution Type
Public
#4

University of Central Florida

  • Orlando, FL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

From its Orlando campus, University of Central Florida enrolls students in an online RN-to-BSN program, one of the best of its kind. Students enroll in on-campus and online programs at the public institution. The RN-to-BSN program provides a flexible pathway to entry-level nursing careers.

The distance learning format appeals to students who require a more flexible schedule. The program's major courses and general education requirements strengthen analytical and critical thinking skills. Faculty advisors work with learners to create an individualized degree plan based on their career goals. The school supports online enrollees through academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.

In addition to scholarships, distance learners may qualify for federal financial aid programs like the Pell Grant.

University of Central Florida Numbers:

Online Student Enrollment: 41,097

Online Bachelor's Programs: 19

Online Master's Programs: 26

Admission Rate: 44%

Graduation Rate: 72%

Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No

59%

Online Enrollment

$ 4,478

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

91%

Retention Rate

$19,810

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
44%
Students Enrolled
69,402
Institution Type
Public
#5

University of Louisiana at Monroe

  • Monroe, LA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

University of Louisiana at Monroe has one of the best online offerings in the country. Students can earn an online RN-to-BSN degree by completing coursework in a flexible learning environment. Major classes explore topics specific to the learner's field of study to prepare them for the workforce.

Degree-seekers transfer credits to complete a bachelor’s in 18-36 months. Undergrads pay $5,788 in-state tuition for bachelor’s degrees. Enrollees complete master's programs in about two years. Students enrolled in a graduate program pay $6,490 for in-state tuition. Degree candidates pay for tuition with an average aid package of $10,649. Students help pay for their education with private and institutional scholarships.

The admissions department requires school transcripts. To help students succeed, the institution provides a variety of support services, such as tutoring and career counseling. The institution's website provides details about how to earn credit for experiential learning. University of Louisiana at Monroe has received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, an independent accrediting agency.

43%

Online Enrollment

$ 5,788

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

73%

Retention Rate

$17,888

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
8,673
Institution Type
Public
#6

University of Louisville

  • Louisville, KY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

From its Kentucky campus, University of Louisville offers multiple online degrees, including a top-ranked online RN-to-BSN degree. Students choose between in-person and online course options at the public institution. Enrollees train for entry-level nursing careers.

The distance learning format benefits working professionals and other busy students. Online nursing courses strengthen in-demand skills like critical thinking and problem-solving. Students work with faculty advisors to craft an individualized degree plan based on their interests and career goals. Academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services support help distance learners reach their academic goals.

Enrollees at the accredited institution can expect to pay around $553 per credit. Students may qualify for scholarships, grants, and loans, including federal programs like the Pell Grant.

University of Louisville Numbers:

Online Student Enrollment: 2,624

Online Bachelor's Programs: 9

Online Master's Programs: 12

Admission Rate: 69%

Graduation Rate: 59%

Transfer Credits Allowed: Yes

12%

Online Enrollment

$11,732

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

80%

Retention Rate

$27,758

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
21,670
Institution Type
Public
#7

East Tennessee State University

  • Johnson City, TN
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

East Tennessee State University, a leader in online learning, offers a comprehensive catalog of degrees. Students can complete an online RN-to-BSN degree in a flexible learning environment. Major coursework explores specialized topics and prepares students for work in their field.

Programs help learners gain the knowledge and skills they need to impress employers. Learners can specialize their bachelor's studies by pursuing a minor. Students complete online programs by conveniently watching lectures and submitting assignments. Degree candidates typically complete 120 semester credits in a bachelor’s program. East Tennessee State University has received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, an independent accrediting agency.

East Tennessee State University Statistics:

Price Per Credit: Unavailable

Learners Awarded Financial Aid: 95%

Average Net Price With Aid: $14,696

Permits Transfer Credits: No

Rate of Undergraduate Admission: 86%


56%

Online Enrollment

$ 7,340

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

72%

Retention Rate

$25,487

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
86%
Students Enrolled
14,191
Institution Type
Public
#8

Florida International University

  • Miami, FL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Florida International University offers an online doctor of nursing practice program from its Miami campus that ranks among the top programs in the country. The public institution offers both in-person and online courses for degree-seekers. With this degree, graduates can pursue various nursing careers.

Designed with working students in mind, the flexible format makes it easier to earn a college degree. The curriculum emphasizes career-focused knowledge and skills. Faculty advisors work closely with students to select electives and minors that individualize the degree. The school supports online students through academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.

The accredited institution charges per credit, on average. Distance learners also pay for their degree with scholarships, grants, and loans.

Florida International University Numbers:

Online Student Enrollment: 39,863

Online Bachelor's Programs: 36

Online Master's Programs: 31

Admission Rate: 58%

Graduation Rate: 63%

Transfer Credits Permitted: No

68%

Online Enrollment

$ 4,721

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

89%

Retention Rate

$16,529

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
58,711
Institution Type
Public
#9

Appalachian State University

  • Boone, NC
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

From its Boone, North Carolina, campus, Appalachian State University enrolls students in several online programs, including an online RN-to-BSN program. At the public institution, degree-seekers take classes in person and online. The program prepares graduates for several nursing careers.

The online learning format appeals to busy students who benefit from flexibility in their schedule. Degree candidates take courses that build in-demand knowledge and skills. Faculty advisors help learners build a degree plan to customize their course of study. Distance learners benefit from the school's support services, which include academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.

Distance learners may qualify for scholarships, grants, and loans, including Pell Grants and federal loans.

Appalachian State University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 4,490

Online Bachelor's Programs: 7

Online Master's Programs: 10

Admission Rate: 77%

Graduation Rate: 73%

Transfer Credits Accepted: No

23%

Online Enrollment

$ 4,242

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

88%

Retention Rate

$19,049

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
19,280
Institution Type
Public
#10

Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus

  • Portales, NM
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus is a leader in online learning. Online learners can enroll in the bachelor of science in nursing degree-completion program and complete classes in a flexible learning environment. The school reports a 58% admission rate, and 35% of accepted applicants enroll at the school.

Bachelor's degree-seekers without transfer credits typically graduate in about four years. In addition to coursework, degree-seekers can receive credit for completing service-learning experiences. Students transfer credits to finish degrees faster. Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus has received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus Fast Facts:

Undergrad Graduation Rate: 36%

Learners Awarded Financial Aid: 97%

Students Receiving Loans: 26%

Average Fee Per Credit: Unavailable

Average Cost After Aid: $10,338

Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No


69%

Online Enrollment

$3,996

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

63%

Retention Rate

$5,994

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
5,685
Institution Type
Public
#11

Murray State University

  • Murray, KY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

A public institution in Murray, Kentucky, Murray State University has one of the best online schools in the country. In the online RN-to-BSN program, degree-seekers complete coursework in a flexible learning environment. The school reports an 82% admission rate, and 21% of accepted applicants enroll at the school.

Students can transfer credits to complete a bachelor’s in 18-36 months. Undergrads pay $7,974 in-state tuition for bachelor’s degrees. Distance learners typically complete master's programs in two years. A doctoral degree may take more than four years to finish. Enrollees pursuing a graduate program pay $8,214 for in-state tuition. Enrollees pay for tuition with an average aid package of $9,138.

The institution delivers affordable, high-quality undergraduate programs. Students can access the school's support services online and in person. Learners can use peer tutoring sessions to improve their grades. Murray State University holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

40%

Online Enrollment

$ 7,974

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

79%

Retention Rate

$23,592

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
9,556
Institution Type
Public
#12

Ohio State University-Main Campus

  • Columbus, OH
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Ohio State University-Main Campus is a public postsecondary institution based in Columbus. The college offers a school nurse professional pupil services licensure certificate. The school's admissions rate for new students is 54%.

Programs help learners gain the knowledge and skills necessary to secure positions in their field. The institution allows degree-seekers to add a minor to their bachelor's degree. Enrollees watch lectures and complete assignments at convenient times. Students complete at least 120 credits to earn a bachelor’s degree. The school has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Ohio State University-Main Campus Statistics:

Undergraduate Graduation Rate: 86%

Learners Awarded Financial Aid: 79%

Percentage of Learners Awarded Student Loans: 36%

Per-Credit Fee: N/A

Average Price With Financial Aid: $18,706

Grants Transfer Credits: No


34%

Online Enrollment

$10,197

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

94%

Retention Rate

$31,174

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
54%
Students Enrolled
61,391
Institution Type
Public
#13

University of North Florida

  • Jacksonville, FL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

University of North Florida offers bachelor's programs that prepare students for new job opportunities and career advancement. An online RN-to-BSN program provides students with a flexible learning environment. Degree candidates learn core nursing practice topics and receive specialized training.

Nontraditional learners can finish bachelor’s degrees in 18-36 months. Florida students pay $3,996 in-state tuition for bachelor’s degrees. The school offers master's programs that students typically complete in two years. Enrollees pursuing graduate degrees pay $8,978 in-state tuition. The school’s average aid package of $9,450 helps students pay for their degree.

Most first-time bachelor's students graduate in about four years, if they study full time. The school may allow degree candidates to earn credit for internships and service-learning experiences. Working students transfer credits to finish degrees faster. University of North Florida has received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

57%

Online Enrollment

$ 3,996

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

83%

Retention Rate

$16,799

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
72%
Students Enrolled
17,117
Institution Type
Public
#14

McNeese State University

  • Lake Charles, LA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

From its campus in Lake Charles, Louisiana, McNeese State University offers an online RN-to-BSN program that ranks among the best programs in the country. The public institution offers a variety of enrollment options, including online and in-person programs. The RN-to-BSN program prepares graduates for many nursing careers.

Created with working professionals in mind, the program's flexible format puts more control in the student's hands. The program's major courses and general education requirements strengthen analytical and critical thinking skills. Faculty advisors recommend a custom degree plan to meet each student's interests and career goals. The school's support services include academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.

Online learners qualify for federal financial aid programs, including the Pell Grant.

McNeese State University Fast Facts:

Online Student Enrollment: 4,070

Online Bachelor's Programs: 7

Online Master's Programs: 10

Admission Rate: 81%

Graduation Rate: 47%

Grants Transfer Credits: No

56%

Online Enrollment

$ 5,147

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

70%

Retention Rate

$13,185

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
7,295
Institution Type
Public
#15

Western Carolina University

  • Cullowhee, NC
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

A bachelor's degree from Western Carolina University helps graduates advance their careers and pursue new opportunities. In the RN-to-BSN program, online learners complete coursework in a flexible learning environment. Degree candidates study core nursing topics and receive specialized training.

The school offers flexible enrollment with multiple start terms. Degree-seekers can expect an admission rate of 69%. The school admissions process requires school transcripts. Entrance scores may bolster students’ application. Western Carolina University has received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, an independent accrediting agency.

Western Carolina University at a Glance:

Average Per-Credit Cost: Not Known

Undergraduate Tuition Rate: $1,000 per year in-state, $5,000 per year out-of-state

Average Cost After Financial Aid: $12,965

Percentage of Students Receiving Financial Aid: 85%

Percentage of Learners Awarded Student Loans: 55%


41%

Online Enrollment

$1,000

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

78%

Retention Rate

$5,000

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
12,167
Institution Type
Public

Price Checkcheck

A 2022 survey from the Health Resources & Survey Administration found that fewer than half of working nurses used federal loans to fund their initial degree.

Why Choose Nursing?

The best online nursing programs help you train for careers with solid growth prospects. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, adults over age 65 will outnumber youth under age 18 for the first time in U.S. history by 2034. These age demographic trends suggest ongoing demand and career opportunities for licensed nurses, since older adults tend to require and access healthcare at higher rates.

Career Outlook for Nursing Graduates

Forecasting from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) indicates that many career paths in nursing have above-average near-term growth projections. The following table highlights five professional pathways you can pursue in the nursing field. All the jobs below require at least a BSN, while some careers may require additional licensing, certification, or graduate-level education.

Fast-Growing Jobs In Nursing
JobProjected Job Growth, 2024-34Average Annual Salary, May 2024
Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians+2%$61,890
Dietitians and Nutritionists+6%$73,850
Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Midwives, and Nurse Practitioners+35%$132,050
Registered Nurses+5%$93,600
Physician Assistants+20%$133,260
Source: BLS

Nursing Licensing and Certification Requirements

Licensing requirements vary by career level. To become an RN, you must graduate from a state-approved nursing program and pass the NCLEX-RN examination.

To become an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), you need an RN license, professional nursing experience, and at least a master’s degree. Additional exam, licensing, and certification requirements may apply, depending on your area of practice and state requirements. APRN roles include nurse anesthetist, nurse midwife, and nurse practitioner.

Research location-specific information by connecting with your state’s nursing board through the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.

Ways to Save on a Nursing Degree

Licensed nursing careers generally pay well, but earning the credentials you need to qualify for them can be expensive. To reduce your financial burdens, consider these strategies:

  • checkStudy Online: The best online nursing programs blend educational quality and convenience. Use their flexibility to study online while you launch your career, which can help you reduce debt.
  • checkTake Advantage of Employer Assistance: If you already work in healthcare, your employer may offer a tuition assistance or reimbursement program to fund your educational upgrade.
  • checkUse Scholarships and Grants: Many organizations offer scholarships and grants to nursing students. You can start your search through the scholarship database at the American Association of Colleges of Nursing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing Programs

LPN programs, which culminate in certificates or diplomas rather than a degree, typically take one year of full-time study. In terms of college degrees, associate degrees in nursing and RN-to-BSN programs usually have the shortest completion timelines. You can earn an associate degree in about two years of full-time study, while RN-to-BSN programs typically take 12-24 months. Note that you need an active RN license for RN-to-BSN tracks.

Related articles that may interest you

Best Accelerated Online Nursing Programs

Best Accelerated Online Nursing Programs

The best online accelerated nursing programs take 12-16 months. Start or advance your career by researching top programs for 2025.

Thomas Broderick

by Thomas Broderick

Updated September 26, 2025

Scholarships for Nursing School Students

Scholarships for Nursing School Students

Scholarships and Resources for Nursing Students Nursing degrees open doors to professional advancement, increased salary, and the opportunity to make a vital difference in people’s lives. Nursing school demands not only time and dedication, but also a significant financial commitment. With college costs on the rise, 86% of U.S. students relied on financial aid to …

ACO Staff Writers

by ACO Staff Writers

Updated November 15, 2023

Online DNP Programs

Online DNP Programs

Who Gets One & What to Expect A doctor of nursing practice (DNP) prepares nursing professionals to work in leadership roles at hospitals and other healthcare facilities. Registered nurses who wish to increase their earning potential and take on more responsibility can benefit from a DNP. Graduates of DNP programs also enjoy strong job prospects. …

ACO Staff Writers

by ACO Staff Writers

Updated April 10, 2023