Best Accelerated Online Nursing Programs

Thomas Broderick
By
Updated on September 26, 2025
Edited by
The best online accelerated nursing programs take 12-16 months. Start or advance your career by researching top programs for 2025.

Becoming a nurse or advancing in the nursing profession requires classroom and on-the-job training. The best online accelerated nursing programs offer learners a condensed educational experience that combines these experiences. They also appeal to prospective students with or without nursing experience.

Discover how the best online nursing programs can help you launch or further your nursing career.

Degree at a Glance

  • Typical Program Length: 12-16 months
  • Typical Admission Requirements: Active RN license or previous medical training, associate degree or transferable college credits, bachelor’s degree in any subject
  • Top Skills Gained: Leadership, ethical practice, evidence-based decision-making
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Accelerated Online 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

Texas A&M University

  • College Station, TX
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Distance learners at Texas A&M University can pursue a variety of respected degrees, including a master's in nursing. While many of the institution's students pursue their degree on campus in College Station, Texas, 9,451 students attend online classes. Busy learners balancing work and school can benefit from online programs' scheduling flexibility.

While enrolled in the master of science in nursing-family nurse practitioner program, degree-seekers complete a rigorous curriculum comprising core and specialized coursework. Graduate students consult with faculty mentors to select classes aligning with their interests and career goals. The flexible program emphasizes industry knowledge. Graduates of the master's program often secure high-paying leadership roles in the nursing field. Students and alumni can benefit from the institution's career services.

In addition to career advising, learners can access financial aid counseling to ensure they explore all funding options. The school's affordable tuition rates make it easier for degree-seekers to pursue graduate degrees. Enrollees who need additional funding can secure private scholarships and institutional fellowships.

14%

Online Enrollment

$ 7,941

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

93%

Retention Rate

$34,190

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
68,726
Institution Type
Public
#2

The University of West Florida

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

The University of West Florida delivers respected graduate degrees in a variety of fields, including a master's-level nursing degree. Based in Pensacola, the public institution enrolls 8,296 online students. Learners with personal or professional obligations often benefit from online programs' flexible scheduling options.

The master of science in nursing family nurse practitioner's rigorous curriculum helps degree-seekers develop transferable career skills while gaining advanced knowledge in nursing. Students can customize the master's curriculum based on their interests and professional goals. Learners in the online program benefit from flexible scheduling options and career-specific training. After earning the master's degree in nursing, graduates can launch a new career in the field. The institution offers career services to help students and alumni locate professional opportunities.

Student support services, including career advising and financial aid counseling, help learners succeed academically and professionally. Students pursuing online graduate programs benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates. Scholarships and fellowships can also help enrollees fund their master's studies. Graduate degree-seekers in the school's online programs pay an average per-credit tuition rate of $390.

66%

Online Enrollment

$ 3,735

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

81%

Retention Rate

$16,004

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
31%
Students Enrolled
12,557
Institution Type
Public
#3

Georgia College & State University

  • Milledgeville, GA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Georgia College & State University provides online options for graduate-level learners interested in pursuing degrees remotely. In addition to educating students at its Milledgeville campus, the public institution enrolls students in 26 online programs. Degree-seekers can enroll in the school's master of science in nursing. The online program features flexible enrollment options that benefit working professionals.

Along with core classes, the master's program requires advanced coursework. Master's students gain specialized knowledge during elective classes and apply theoretical knowledge during experiential learning opportunities. Degree-seekers typically complete the master's program in 1-2 years. For specific application details, including requirements and deadlines, prospective learners can contact an admissions advisor.

Degree-seekers pursuing online graduate programs benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates. In-state graduate students at the institution pay an average tuition rate of $5,292, and out-of-state graduate students pay an average of $18,846. The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees can submit the FAFSA and determine whether they qualify for federal financial aid. According to the school, 96% of learners receive financial aid.

29%

Online Enrollment

$ 7,508

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

86%

Retention Rate

$26,688

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
7,031
Institution Type
Public
#4

Northern Arizona University

  • Flagstaff, AZ
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Northern Arizona University educates graduate degree-seekers online and at its Flagstaff campus. At the public institution, learners can earn their online master's in nursing. Ideal for working professionals, the affordable, accessible master of science in nursing program qualifies graduates for high-level roles.

While completing their master's program, graduate students work with experienced faculty advisors. Enrollees develop specialized knowledge in the field and soft skills that apply to many professional roles. Along with building core nursing knowledge, master's coursework helps participants hone crucial analytical and leadership skills.

Online learners benefit from affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding to further reduce their financial burden. Graduate degree-seekers can explore funding options with the help of the institution's financial aid counselors. Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible.

Northern Arizona University Facts:

Online Master's Programs: 62

Total Online Programs: 70

Number of Online Students: 14,098

Graduate Tuition In-State: $10,305

Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $19,522

Transfer Credits Allowed: No

46%

Online Enrollment

$10,018

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

78%

Retention Rate

$16,613

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
30,733
Institution Type
Public
#5

The University of Texas at Arlington

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

The University of Texas at Arlington offers a variety of top-ranked graduate programs, including an online nursing program. Of the public institution's students, 26,081 attend classes in an online format, while others attend classes in person at the Arlington campus. Working professionals who enroll in online programs can complete academic requirements around their schedule.

While completing the master of science in nursing – family nurse practitioner program, degree-seekers fulfill core requirements and take advanced nursing courses. Students can customize the program through experiential learning opportunities and electives. The online program prioritizes flexible scheduling and specialized industry skills development. Graduates of the nursing program often secure high-level positions in the field. The institution offers career services to help master's students efficiently transition from their studies into the workforce.

The school delivers support services including career advising and financial aid counseling for graduate learners. Students pursuing online graduate programs benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates. Enrollees pursuing a master's degree can research additional financial aid options, including private scholarships and fellowships. The school's average cost per credit is $257 for online master's programs.

54%

Online Enrollment

$ 8,624

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

75%

Retention Rate

$25,713

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
48,635
Institution Type
Public
#6

The University of Texas at Tyler

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

Learners throughout the country can pursue high-quality online graduate programs from The University of Texas at Tyler. The public institution enrolls students in 15 online programs, including nine online master's programs. Degree-seekers at the school choose from master's programs in many fields, including a master of science in nursing–psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Busy enrollees balancing work and school can benefit from the online nursing program's scheduling flexibility.

Learners gain transferable skills and prepare for positions in the field during core coursework and nursing classes. Master's candidates gain specialized knowledge during elective classes and practical experience while completing internships. While most master's degree-seekers graduate in 1-2 years, part-time enrollment may extend degree completion time. For specific application details, including requirements and deadlines, prospective students can review information on the institution's website.

Online learners benefit from affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding to further reduce their financial burden. Residents of Texas pay an average graduate tuition rate of $5,850 at the institution, and out-of-state graduate students pay an average of $14,328 in tuition. The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees can receive federal grants, scholarships, and loans. At the school, 85% of the student body funds an education through financial aid.

62%

Online Enrollment

$ 6,540

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

71%

Retention Rate

$20,760

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
9,617
Institution Type
Public
#7

George Washington University

  • Washington, DC
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Located in Washington, D.C., George Washington University delivers academic programs virtually and on campus. The private institution's offerings include an online master's in nursing, which distance learners can pursue from any location. The flexible master of science in nursing: adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner program helps nursing professionals prepare for leadership roles while maintaining employment.

Master's students work with faculty advisors, who provide advice and insights into the nursing field. The program's rigorous curriculum fosters specialized and transferable skills. In addition to covering foundational nursing knowledge, the curriculum emphasizes career-specific analytical and leadership skills.

Learners pursuing their master's degree remotely benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding. Financial aid counselors help degree-seekers understand funding options and reduce out-of-pocket expenses. The school charges online enrollees affordable tuition rates.

George Washington University at a Glance:

Total Online Programs: 117

Number of Online Students: 6,254

Per-Credit Tuition: $1,559

Graduate Tuition In-State: $31,770

Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $31,770

Allows Transfer Credits: No

22%

Online Enrollment

$54,453

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

92%

Retention Rate

$54,453

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
41%
Students Enrolled
27,814
Institution Type
Private
#8

The University of Indianapolis

  • Indianapolis, IN
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

The University of Indianapolis offers an online nursing program for distance learners. The Indiana school enrolls 1,161 students in its virtual classes. Remote students can earn their master of science in nursing–family nurse practitioner at the school. 

The accredited curriculum provides a rigorous education valued by employers. The degree emphasizes advanced knowledge and skills for nursing careers. The institution reports a student-to-faculty ratio of 12-to-1, giving students one-on-one time with faculty.

Prospective students can learn more about online support services at the college's website. The program charges affordable tuition rates and offers financial aid. This makes the master's degree an affordable option for learners on a budget. The college has a graduation rate of 60% for its programs.

The University of Indianapolis at a Glance:

Total Online Enrollment: 1,472

Number of Online Master’s Programs: 2

Graduate Tuition: $37,514/year in-state, $37,514/year out-of-state

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

25%

Online Enrollment

$29,844

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

73%

Retention Rate

$29,844

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
93%
Students Enrolled
5,801
Institution Type
Private
#9

Olivet Nazarene University

  • Bourbonnais, IL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Students enrolled at Olivet Nazarene University can pursue an online nursing master's degree. With 2,505 distance learners, the private institution also delivers programs on campus in Bourbonnais, Illinois. Degree-seekers balancing academics with personal or professional obligations can take advantage of online programs' flexible scheduling options.

The master of science in nursing: family nurse practitioner requires foundational classes fostering transferable skills, along with advanced nursing courses. Graduate students work closely with faculty mentors to tailor the program based on their professional goals. While pursuing the master's degree, online learners develop field-specific skills and knowledge. Graduates of the nursing program often land competitive roles in their field. Master's candidates can leverage the institution's career services and alumni network to access professional opportunities.

In addition to career advising, enrollees can access financial aid counseling to ensure they explore all funding options. The school's affordable tuition rates make it easier for learners to pursue graduate degrees. Students pursuing a master's degree can research additional financial aid options, including private scholarships and fellowships.

58%

Online Enrollment

$36,080

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

77%

Retention Rate

$36,080

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
4,317
Institution Type
Private
#10

Keiser University-Main campus

  • Fort Lauderdale, FL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Degree-seekers can enroll in Keiser University's graduate programs online or on campus in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The private institution delivers an online master's in nursing, which is ideal for busy learners. Professionals currently employed in the nursing field can pursue promotions or raises after earning their master's degree.

Master's students can work with faculty advisors to explore complex issues and prepare to enter the nursing field. The master of science in nursing, family nurse practitioner program features a rigorous curriculum, helping enrollees develop foundational knowledge in the field. In addition to nursing knowledge, coursework emphasizes industry-specific analytical and leadership skills.

The school also prioritizes affordability. The institution's financial aid counselors support graduate degree-seekers as they search for funding options. Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates.

Keiser University at a Glance:

Online Master's Programs: 20

Total Online Programs: 65

Number of Online Students: 9,207

Average Cost Per Credit: $296

Graduate Tuition In-State: $27,162

Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $27,162

Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No

47%

Online Enrollment

$19,808

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

75%

Retention Rate

$19,808

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Students Enrolled
19,567
Institution Type
Private
#11

Concordia University Wisconsin

  • Mequon, WI
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Based in Mequon, Wisconsin, Concordia University Wisconsin is a private institution. It offers many programs for degree-seekers from all walks of life. Among these options is the master of science in nursing - primary care nurse practitioner program, for learners interested in advancing their nursing career.

During the program, graduate students learn through a rigorous curriculum taught by experts. Online enrollees work with advisors, IT support professionals, and other support staff at the school. Distance learners communicate with faculty and peers in virtual classrooms.

As an accredited institution, the school can distribute federal financial aid. Prospective applicants should talk to a financial aid officer to see what funding options they may qualify for. In addition to the online nursing program, Concordia University-Wisconsin offers 24 other master's degrees.

Concordia University Wisconsin at a Glance:

Total Number of Online Students: 2,242

Number of Online Master’s Programs: 25

In-State Graduate School Tuition Rate: $11,052 

Out-of-State Graduate School Tuition Rate: $11,052

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

39%

Online Enrollment

$30,060

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

81%

Retention Rate

$30,060

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
5,777
Institution Type
Private
#12

Duquesne University

  • Pittsburgh, PA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Duquesne University delivers respected graduate degrees in a variety of fields, including a master's-level nursing degree. With 1,942 distance learners, the private institution also delivers programs on its campus in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Working professionals often benefit from online programs' flexible scheduling options.

The master of science: adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner features a rigorous curriculum that fosters specialized and transferable skills, which degree-seekers refine while fulfilling major requirements. In addition to completing major courses, students customize the master's curriculum by choosing electives. The flexible program emphasizes industry knowledge. Graduates of the nursing program often land competitive roles in their field. Master's candidates can benefit from the institution's career services as they prepare to enter the workforce.

Support services, including career advising and financial aid counseling, prepare learners to succeed academically and professionally. Students pursuing their master's degree online benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding. Enrollees often apply for scholarships and fellowships to reduce the financial burden of earning a master's degree. The school's average cost per credit is $1,489 for online master's programs.

21%

Online Enrollment

$39,992

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

85%

Retention Rate

$39,992

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
74%
Students Enrolled
9,197
Institution Type
Private
#13

Saint Joseph's College of Maine

  • Standish, ME
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Saint Joseph's College of Maine delivers online and in-person graduate programs from its Standish campus. The private institution's master's programs include an online nursing program for distance learners. The affordable, accessible master of science in nursing program prepares working professionals to pursue leadership positions.

Faculty advisors support graduate students with academic advice and professional input regarding the nursing field's current challenges. Enrollees pursuing the master's degree complete a rigorous curriculum that fosters field-specific knowledge and transferable skills. In addition to nursing knowledge, coursework emphasizes industry-specific analytical and leadership skills.

Online learners benefit from affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding to further reduce their financial burden. Financial aid counseling can help degree-seekers reduce out-of-pocket expenses. 

Saint Joseph's College of Maine Facts:

Online Master's Programs: 8

Total Online Programs: 23

Number of Online Students: 792

Graduate Tuition In-State: $9,470

Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $9,470

Accepts Transfer Credits: No

40%

Online Enrollment

$36,720

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

82%

Retention Rate

$36,720

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
1,987
Institution Type
Private
#14

The University of the Cumberlands

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

Based in Williamsburg, Kentucky, the University of the Cumberlands offers undergraduate and graduate programs. Learners can pursue any of the school's 26 online master's programs. The institution delivers an online master of science in nursing - family nurse practitioner that is ideal for busy degree-seekers interested in advancing their nursing skills. 

The master of science in nursing program prepares learners to enter the job market or advance their current nursing career. Master's students can access support services such as academic advising, career-planning resources, and faculty mentorship.

Enrollees at the school access affordable tuition rates and institutional funding, which can reduce out-of-pocket expenses. The school holds accreditation, which means students can submit the FAFSA and determine whether they qualify for federal financial aid. Learners often apply for scholarships and fellowships to reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

The University of the Cumberlands Numbers:

Students Receiving Aid: 99%

Students Receiving Loans: 43%

Total Master's Programs: 26

Total Online Master's Programs: 26

Awards Transfer Credits: No

91%

Online Enrollment

$9,875

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

69%

Retention Rate

$9,875

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
16,966
Institution Type
Private
#15

Sacred Heart University

  • Fairfield, CT
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Sacred Heart University delivers online and in-person graduate programs from its Fairfield campus in Connecticut. Busy learners can enroll in virtual master's programs from the private institution. The school's flexible master of science in nursing: family nurse practitioner helps students earn an affordable nursing degree.

Participants in the online master's program complete core nursing  coursework to develop foundational knowledge. After completing core requirements, degree-seekers can select elective classes to customize the program to their interests and career goals. Master's candidates can prepare for careers in the field through faculty mentorship and experiential learning opportunities. Program graduates often qualify for positions with increased responsibility and earning potential. Faculty advisors and career counselors help master's students and alumni locate job placements in their field.

The school's online graduate programs cost an average of $774 per credit. Degree-seekers with financial need can fund their education through federal grants and loans. Learners can research funding options including grants, fellowships, and employer-sponsored tuition plans. The school reports that 100% of students receive financial aid.

34%

Online Enrollment

$42,800

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

83%

Retention Rate

$42,800

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
9,156
Institution Type
Private

Price Checkcheck

According to Payscale, RNs with an associate degree earn an average salary of $80,000 per year, while RNs with a bachelor’s make $98,000 per year.

Why Choose an Accelerated Nursing Program?

The best online accelerated nursing programs feature academic tracks for RNs researching RN-to-BSN programs and college-educated professionals interested in working in healthcare.

The educational experience varies slightly between tracks, with the latter emphasizing the knowledge and skills you need to pass the NCLEX-RN upon graduation.

Benefits of an accelerated online curriculum can include:

  • Completing practicum and clinical requirements at your workplace (i.e., if you already hold a nursing license)
  • Graduating as soon as possible
  • Paying a per-term rather than a per-credit tuition rate

How Long Does It Take to Become a Nurse?

A typical nursing degree can take 2-4 years to complete. Each level of nursing has its own timeline, and that timeline can vary depending upon factors like part-time vs. full-time enrollment, certification, and the type of program.

Below is an overview of the typical amount of time it takes to complete a nursing degree. Keep in mind that the length provided is for the amount of time it takes to complete that segment of the degree, not the entire academic path overall:

Nursing Timeline
Nursing Degree LevelLength of Study
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)2-3 years
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)1-2 years
Registered Nurse (RN)4 years
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)4-5 years
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)1.5-3 years
Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP)1-3 years

Nursing Licensing and Certification Requirements

Every state requires registered nurses to hold at least an ADN and pass the NCLEX-RN. Other requirements may include:

  • Recommendation letters from your nursing program.
  • Fingerprints for a criminal background check.
  • Evidence of an active nursing license in another state, if applicable.

Visit the National Council for State Boards of Nursing website to review your state’s licensure requirements. States can take up to 12 weeks to process your application.

Ways to Save on an Accelerated Nursing Degree

Applying to the best online accelerated nursing programs doesn’t have to mean going into debt. Explore these and other strategies to lower your cost of attendance.

  • checkFocus on Colleges/Universities with Institutional Aid: Many leading online universities consider all incoming bachelor’s in nursing students for institutional scholarships and grants.
  • checkApply for Private Scholarships: The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) awards thousands of dollars in scholarships to ADN, BSN, and MSN degree-seekers. AACN also sponsors a loan forgiveness program for nursing graduates.
  • checkAsk Your Employer About Tuition Reimbursement: If you’re an RN with an ADN, your employer may offer a tuition-reimbursement program. Requirements may include remaining with your employer for a specific number of years after graduation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Accelerated Nursing Programs

Accelerated degrees require students to cover the same curriculum in less time. Learners graduate sooner than their peers by:

  • Taking courses in the summer and winter terms.
  • Taking fast-paced courses lasting eight weeks instead of the traditional 16 weeks.

Accelerated degrees leave little room for other responsibilities. Reflect on your learning style and goals before committing to an accelerated degree.

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