Best Accelerated Online Nursing Programs
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
Accelerated Online Nursing Programs
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%
$ 7,941
93%
$34,190
- Acceptance Rate
- 58%
- Students Enrolled
- 68,726
- Institution Type
- Public
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%
$ 3,735
81%
$16,004
- Acceptance Rate
- 31%
- Students Enrolled
- 12,557
- Institution Type
- Public
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%
$ 7,508
86%
$26,688
- Acceptance Rate
- 80%
- Students Enrolled
- 7,031
- Institution Type
- Public
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%
$10,018
78%
$16,613
- Acceptance Rate
- 85%
- Students Enrolled
- 30,733
- Institution Type
- Public
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%
$ 8,624
75%
$25,713
- Acceptance Rate
- 83%
- Students Enrolled
- 48,635
- Institution Type
- Public
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%
$ 6,540
71%
$20,760
- Acceptance Rate
- 83%
- Students Enrolled
- 9,617
- Institution Type
- Public
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%
$54,453
92%
$54,453
- Acceptance Rate
- 41%
- Students Enrolled
- 27,814
- Institution Type
- Private
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%
$29,844
73%
$29,844
- Acceptance Rate
- 93%
- Students Enrolled
- 5,801
- Institution Type
- Private
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%
$36,080
77%
$36,080
- Acceptance Rate
- 58%
- Students Enrolled
- 4,317
- Institution Type
- Private
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%
$19,808
75%
$19,808
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 19,567
- Institution Type
- Private
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%
$30,060
81%
$30,060
- Acceptance Rate
- 64%
- Students Enrolled
- 5,777
- Institution Type
- Private
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%
$39,992
85%
$39,992
- Acceptance Rate
- 74%
- Students Enrolled
- 9,197
- Institution Type
- Private
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%
$36,720
82%
$36,720
- Acceptance Rate
- 87%
- Students Enrolled
- 1,987
- Institution Type
- Private
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%
$9,875
69%
$9,875
- Acceptance Rate
- 80%
- Students Enrolled
- 16,966
- Institution Type
- Private
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%
$42,800
83%
$42,800
- Acceptance Rate
- 64%
- Students Enrolled
- 9,156
- Institution Type
- Private
Price Check
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 Degree Level | Length 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.
Focus on Colleges/Universities with Institutional Aid: Many leading online universities consider all incoming bachelor’s in nursing students for institutional scholarships and grants.
Apply 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.
Ask 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.