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If you're interested in pursuing a nursing associate or bachelor's degree and becoming a registered nurse, consider flexible and affordable RN schools online.
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Online RN Programs and Opportunities
The need for qualified registered nurses (RNs) continues to rise each year. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects the need for these professionals to increase by 6% in 2021-2031. Certain factors, like the aging baby boomer population, may add to this increase.
Many RNs practice with only an associate degree. However, a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) can lead to even more opportunities. Online RN programs allow aspiring nurses to pursue their career goals flexibly.
Keep reading to learn about the benefits of earning an online nursing degree, salary potential, and licensure requirements.
Popular Online RN-to-BSN Programs
Why Become a Nurse Online?
If you're wondering how to become an RN online, distance learning offers flexible RN classes online with in-person clinical experiences you can complete in your own community. Programs can lead to a BSN or an associate degree in nursing (ADN), and many provide opportunities for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to earn their BSN in just 1-2 years.
Advantages to online RN programs can include attending class on your schedule, continuing to work and meet family obligations, and saving money on commuting costs. RN schools' online class support includes student discussion boards, virtual office hours, and remote access to library services, technology help, and advising.
How Much Does an Online RN Program Cost?
The exact price for an RN program varies. Fortunately, online RN programs often cost less than in-person programs. Some schools even charge rates similar to in-state tuition for virtual learners.
The National Center for Education Statistics collects data on tuition costs. For the 2021-2022 school year, undergraduate tuition and fees at two-year schools averaged $3,859. Learners at four-year institutions spent an average of $17,251.
This data does not include living expenses, like room and board. College students pursuing a BSN degree online often live at home and save on these costs.
Popular Online RN-to-BSN Programs
Additional Online RN Nursing Student Fees
Online RN program enrollees should be aware of additional costs outside of tuition. These may include online learning or technology fees, books and study materials, and tools, such as laptops and reliable internet connections. Some programs provide laptops or access to student discounts on computer equipment. Buying ebooks and used books can also save money.
Clinical rotation sites may require students to buy scrubs, footwear, or items like stethoscopes. Once students approach graduation, they should budget for state licensing fees and the cost of taking the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) and test prep courses.
How Much Do RNs Make?
The BLS lists the median salary for RNs at $77,600 per year. Wages vary according to geographic location, education level, and years of experience. For example, the average salary for RNs in South Dakota is $64,500, while the average salary for California RNs is $133,340. The top ten highest-paying metropolitan areas for nurses are in California, with RNs in the San Francisco area earning an average of $164,760 a year.
Payscale data from May 2023 shows that nurses with an ADN earn an average annual salary of $75,000, while nurses with a BSN earn an average of $91,000. RNs with 1-4 years of experience earn an average of $30.53 per hour, but nurses with 10-19 years of experience earn an average of $36.04 per hour.
Popular Online RN-to-BSN Programs
Courses in an Online RN Program
During their studies, nursing students learn the importance of providing quality care. They discover how to create a comfortable atmosphere for patients and help them meet their daily needs.
Online RN program curricula cover hard skills and soft skills. Aspiring nurses learn how to communicate with patients and their families effectively. In clinical rotations, students practice administering medicine, transporting patients, and monitoring symptoms at local healthcare facilities.
In this section, we highlight three common classes for BSN degrees. Keep in mind not every program offers these exact courses. Think of this list as a sample curriculum.
Nursing Foundations
A Nursing foundations course covers the basics of the nursing profession. Students learn common job responsibilities for nurses. Participants discuss how care needs vary across the lifespan, and they get introduced to specializations. This class provides a preview for topics covered more in-depth in later courses.
Pharmacology
Students enrolled in pharmacology learn how to safely administer medications. They build their calculation skills for dosages. The class covers how medicines interact with one another and the result of miscalculations. Learners discover the names of common medications.
Ethics in the Nursing Profession
An ethics course teaches the importance of patient privacy and rights. Learners read through case studies about ethical nursing dilemmas. The class covers current laws that impact the profession. Students engage in classroom discussions about the ethical implications presented. Upon completion, learners possess a framework for evaluating ethical best practices.
How to Become a Registered Nurse Online
Becoming an RN requires similar educational, experiential, testing, and licensing processes in every U.S. state. These steps typically include:
Research registered nursing programs online to find the best one for your goals.
Apply for an ADN or BSN program online.
Complete your online registered nursing program coursework and clinical experience.
Study for and pass the NCLEX-RN.
Apply for your RN license through your state nursing board.
Pursue optional certification in a specialty area.
RN students need 400 clinical hours to take the NCLEX exam. During their studies, learners should prepare for the NCLEX exam. In the next section, we discuss the licensing exam more in-depth.
Licensure for Online Nursing Students
RN licensure requires a passing score on the NCLEX-RN. Students usually take this exam a month after graduating from nursing school. The NCLEX RN- comprises 145 questions covering four categories:
Safe and effective care environment;
Health promotion and maintenance;
Psychosocial integrity; and
Physiological integrity
The exam fee is $200.
Because requirements vary, applicants should pursue licensure through the board of nursing in the state where they plan to practice. Thirty-six states belong to the Nurse Licensure Compact, which allows practice under a multi-state license in any other compact member state. Nurses generally have to renew their licenses every two years, and state boards require continuing education credits for each renewal period.
Popular Online RN-to-BSN Programs
Best Registered Nursing (RN) Programs Online
These rankings include
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
from our partners. We use publicly available provisional datasets from Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to inform the data for these schools. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.
#1 Online Registered Nurse (RN) Programs
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA
4 years
Online + Campus
Located in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty University enrolls students in many distance learning degrees, including its master of science in nursing (MSN) program. With this advanced nursing credential, medical professionals can qualify for higher-level nursing roles.
This private university's flexible online learning format helps working professionals and busy students fit coursework into their schedules. The program's classes build in-demand knowledge and skills. Faculty advisors work closely with learners to select courses that individualize the degree. Enrollees benefit from resources like online academic advising and career services.
Online students can use federal financial aid programs like the Pell Grant to help pay for their degree.
Liberty University Facts:
Online Bachelor's Programs: 34 programs
Online Master's Programs: 68 programs
Admission Rate: 50%
Graduation Rate: 54%
Offers Transfer Credits: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,791
Out-of-state
$14,791
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,935
Out-of-state
$7,935
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
50%
Students Enrolled
93,349
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
93%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Online Registered Nurse (RN) Programs
Florida State University
Tallahassee, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
Florida State University offers multiple online certificates and programs, including a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner post-master's certificate. This program helps enrollees gain the knowledge and skills required for advanced careers in psychiatric medicine.
The online course format appeals to students who require more flexible schedules. The certificate's classes strengthen analytical and critical thinking skills in nursing contexts. Faculty advisors can help students create a customized course of study. Academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services help degree-seekers complete the program and transition into the workforce.
Distance learners can access financial aid like scholarships, grants, and loans.
Florida State University Facts:
Online Bachelor's Programs: 6 programs
Online Master's Programs: 16 programs
Admission Rate: 32%
Graduation Rate: 84%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,640
Out-of-state
$19,084
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,684
Out-of-state
$24,116
Retention Rate
95%
Admission Rate
32%
Students Enrolled
43,569
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
97%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Online Registered Nurse (RN) Programs
The University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Arizona offers a spate of online degrees from its campus in Tucson. Programs like the master of science in nursing - clinical systems leadership degree emphasizes career-ready knowledge and skills.
This program's flexible format allows students to balance school with other responsibilities. Classes prepare enrollees for leadership roles in the nursing field. Faculty advisors help learners create a customized course of study. The public institution also supports online enrollees with resources like academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.
Online students can qualify for scholarships, grants, and loans to help cover tuition.
The University of Arizona Fast Facts:
Online Bachelor's Programs: 26 programs
Online Master's Programs: 29 programs
Admission Rate: 85%
Graduation Rate: 65%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,990
Out-of-state
$33,273
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,938
Out-of-state
$32,065
Retention Rate
85%
Admission Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
45,601
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
56%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Online Registered Nurse (RN) Programs
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, MD
4 years
Online + Campus
Degree-seekers at Johns Hopkins University can pursue an online master of science in nursing. This program uses a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes career-ready knowledge and skills. The credential can help graduates prepare for higher-level nursing jobs.
Busy students and working professionals benefit from the degree's flexible learning format. The online curriculum builds in-demand, industry-specific knowledge and skills. Faculty advisors help learners build a degree plan to customize their course of study. Resources like academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services support help online enrollees reach their academic goals.
Distance learners can apply for scholarships, grants, and loans to cover their college costs.
Johns Hopkins University Numbers:
Online Master's Programs: 43 programs
Admission Rate: 11%
Graduation Rate: 94%
Accepts Transfer Credits: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,160
Out-of-state
$54,160
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$57,010
Out-of-state
$57,010
Retention Rate
97%
Admission Rate
11%
Students Enrolled
28,890
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
88%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#5 Online Registered Nurse (RN) Programs
The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL
4 years
Online + Campus
From its campus in Tuscaloosa, The University of Alabama offers several online nursing master's degrees, including a master of science in nursing with a concentration in nurse administrator.
The online learning format of this program appeals to busy students who benefit from flexibility in their schedule. The degree's curriculum focuses on nurse administrator-specific knowledge and skills to prepare graduates for administrative roles in healthcare. Faculty advisors help learners build a degree plan to customize their course of study. The school supports online enrollees through academic advising, career services, and other student services.
Distance learners can pursue financial aid like scholarships, grants, and loans to cover their college costs.
The University of Alabama Facts:
Online Bachelor's Programs: 13 programs
Online Master's Programs: 26 programs
Admission Rate: 80%
Graduation Rate: 72%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,780
Out-of-state
$30,250
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,780
Out-of-state
$30,250
Retention Rate
87%
Admission Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
37,840
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
90%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Online Registered Nurse (RN) Programs
University at Buffalo, The State University of New York
Buffalo, NY
4 years
Online + Campus
The University at Buffalo offers multiple online degrees, including a doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) in nursing program. This terminal degree can help graduates qualify for research, teaching, and administrative roles.
Busy students and working professionals benefit from the school's online courses. During the online program, learners gain career-focused knowledge and skills. Faculty advisors work with enrollees to choose electives and customize the degree. The school supports online students through academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.
Distance learners can use federal financial aid programs like the Pell Grant to help pay their tuition.
University at Buffalo, The State University of New York Fast Facts:
Online Master's Programs: 11 programs
Admission Rate: 67%
Graduation Rate: 75%
Transfer Credits Allowed: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,070
Out-of-state
$24,740
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,310
Out-of-state
$23,100
Retention Rate
87%
Admission Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
32,347
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#7 Online Registered Nurse (RN) Programs
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Las Vegas, NV
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas offers several online programs, including the doctor of philosophy in nursing degree. This program helps prepare learners for advanced nursing, teaching, and research careers.
To accommodate working students' schedules, this Ph.D. uses a flexible online format. Coursework emphasizes critical thinking and analytical skills. Faculty advisors can recommend custom degree plans that align with learners' research and professional goals. The school's academic resources include experiential learning opportunities and career counseling.
Students may qualify for financial aid like scholarships, grants, and loans to help pay for the degree.
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas Facts:
Online Bachelor's Programs: 7 programs
Online Master's Programs: 8 programs
Admission Rate: 81%
Graduation Rate: 44%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,747
Out-of-state
$23,398
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,675
Out-of-state
$21,328
Retention Rate
80%
Admission Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
31,142
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
93%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#8 Online Registered Nurse (RN) Programs
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA
4 years
Online + Campus
George Mason University enrolls students in its online master of science in nursing family nurse practitioner degree. This program helps prepare learners for advanced roles in healthcare.
Busy students benefit from the program's online format, which can make it easier to balance school with other responsibilities. The degree's nursing courses focus on discipline-specific knowledge and skills. Enrollees work closely with faculty advisors to design a custom degree plan based on their interests and professional goals. Distance learners benefit from the school's support services, which include academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.
Students can qualify for financial aid — including scholarships, grants, and loans — to help cover tuition.
George Mason University Fast Facts:
Online Bachelor's Programs: 10 programs
Online Master's Programs: 21 programs
Admission Rate: 89%
Graduation Rate: 72%
Applies Transfer Credits: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,510
Out-of-state
$32,970
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,594
Out-of-state
$33,906
Retention Rate
86%
Admission Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
38,541
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
96%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Online Registered Nurse (RN) Programs
The University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, AR
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Arkansas, located in Fayetteville, offers many online programs, including a master of science in nursing degree. This credential helps graduates qualify for advanced healthcare roles.
The degree's online format helps working professionals and busy students fit classes into their schedules. The MSN program offers a rigorous curriculum designed around industry-specific skills. Enrollees work with faculty advisors to craft an individualized coursework plan based on their interests and career goals. The school's support services include academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.
Students can pay for their degree with loans, scholarships, and grants, including federal programs like the Pell Grant.
The University of Arkansas Fast Facts:
Online Bachelor's Programs: 14 programs
Online Master's Programs: 24 programs
Admission Rate: 78%
Graduation Rate: 68%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,568
Out-of-state
$24,056
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,752
Out-of-state
$21,032
Retention Rate
85%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
27,562
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
97%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 Online Registered Nurse (RN) Programs
Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis
Indianapolis, IN
4 years
Online + Campus
Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis offers a nursing science Ph.D. that emphasizes career-ready knowledge and skills for advanced roles in the nursing field.
Busy students benefit from the program's distance learning format, which can make it easier to balance school with other responsibilities. In addition to nursing-specific curriculum, classes emphasize critical thinking and analytical skills. Faculty advisors help students design a custom degree plan based on their interests and career goals. Online enrollees benefit from academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.
At this accredited institution, distance learners can use federal financial aid programs like the Pell Grant to defray their educational costs.
Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis At a Glance:
Online Bachelor's Programs: 8 programs
Online Master's Programs: 15 programs
Admission Rate: 79%
Graduation Rate: 52%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,795
Out-of-state
$30,477
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,090
Out-of-state
$24,864
Retention Rate
75%
Admission Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
29,390
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
89%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#11 Online Registered Nurse (RN) Programs
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, VA
4 years
Online + Campus
Virginia Commonwealth University, located in Richmond, offers an array of online degrees, including a doctor of nurse anesthesia practice program. The doctoral curriculum trains enrollees for advanced careers in nurse anesthesia.
Busy students and working professionals benefit from the program's flexible online format. Classes deepen participants' knowledge of nurse anesthesia practice and strengthen their critical thinking and analytical skills. Faculty advisors help learners build a degree plan to customize their course of study. Online enrollees benefit from virtual academic advising and career services.
Distance learners can use financial aid such as scholarships, grants, and loans to help pay for their degree.
Virginia Commonwealth University Numbers:
Online Bachelor's Programs: 3 programs
Online Master's Programs: 16 programs
Admission Rate: 91%
Graduation Rate: 66%
Transfer Credits Accepted: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,179
Out-of-state
$32,827
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,703
Out-of-state
$26,041
Retention Rate
83%
Admission Rate
91%
Students Enrolled
29,070
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
88%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#12 Online Registered Nurse (RN) Programs
Clemson University
Clemson, SC
4 years
Online + Campus
Clemson University offers a host of online degrees, including their RNBS completion degree, an RN-to-BSN bridge program that helps registered nurses finish a bachelor's degree in nursing.
The program's flexible online format is geared toward working professionals with busy schedules. Courses deepen nurses' knowledge of the healthcare field. Faculty help enrollees create class schedules geared toward their job goals. Academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services help support student success.
Online learners at Clemson can use loans, scholarships, and grants like the Pell Grant to cover tuition costs.
Clemson University At a Glance:
Online Bachelor's Programs: 2 programs
Online Master's Programs: 21 programs
Admission Rate: 62%
Graduation Rate: 85%
Awards Transfer Credits: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,118
Out-of-state
$37,110
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,600
Out-of-state
$22,050
Retention Rate
94%
Admission Rate
62%
Students Enrolled
26,406
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
85%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#13 Online Registered Nurse (RN) Programs
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Knoxville, TN
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville offers multiple online degrees, including a doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) in nursing that helps prepare graduates for advanced careers in healthcare, research, and teaching.
Busy students and working professionals benefit from the program's flexible online format. Faculty advisors work with enrollees to create a degree plan that fits learners' academic and career goals. Online students benefit from the school's support services, which include academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.
Distance learners can qualify for scholarships, grants, and loans to cover tuition costs.
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville At a Glance:
Online Bachelor's Programs: 2 programs
Online Master's Programs: 13 programs
Admission Rate: 78%
Graduation Rate: 71%
Transfer Credits Counted: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,332
Out-of-state
$28,522
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,468
Out-of-state
$29,656
Retention Rate
89%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
30,559
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
41%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#14 Online Registered Nurse (RN) Programs
Appalachian State University
Boone, NC
4 years
Online + Campus
From its Boone, North Carolina, campus, Appalachian State University offers an online MSN degree for nurses looking to advance their careers.
The program's distance learning format offers increased flexibility that benefits working professionals and other busy students. In addition to nursing-specific coursework, classes in this MSN are designed to sharpen learners' analytical and critical thinking skills. Faculty advisors can help enrollees determine which courses align with their job goals. Institutional resources like academic advising and career counseling help degree-seekers achieve career success.
Enrollees at this accredited institution can apply for scholarships, grants, and loans to help defray their educational expenses.
Appalachian State University At a Glance:
Online Bachelor's Programs: 7 programs
Online Master's Programs: 11 programs
Admission Rate: 80%
Graduation Rate: 73%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,242
Out-of-state
$19,049
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,839
Out-of-state
$18,271
Retention Rate
86%
Admission Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
20,023
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
95%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#15 Online Registered Nurse (RN) Programs
The University of Missouri–St. Louis
Saint Louis, MO
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Missouri–St. Louis offers a variety of online degrees, including a Ph.D. in nursing. This advanced credential helps prepare graduates for high-level jobs in healthcare and academia.
Busy students and working professionals can benefit from the program's flexible learning format. Learners individualize their degree plan through elective courses. The school supports online degree-seekers with resources like academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.
Online enrollees can use financial aid like loans, scholarships, or grants such as the Pell Grant to pay for their degree.
The University of Missouri–St. Louis At a Glance:
Online Bachelor's Programs: 10 programs
Online Master's Programs: 4 programs
Admission Rate: 58%
Graduation Rate: 56%
Transfer Credits Counted: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,328
Out-of-state
$29,970
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,283
Out-of-state
$30,154
Retention Rate
82%
Admission Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
13,874
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
62%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#16 Online Registered Nurse (RN) Programs
East Carolina University
Greenville, NC
4 years
Online + Campus
Located in Greenville, North Carolina, East Carolina University offers multiple online programs, including a master of science in nursing degree. This academic credential helps graduates qualify for advanced healthcare jobs.
The program's online delivery offers flexibility for working professionals. The curriculum emphasizes nursing-focused knowledge and skills. Faculty advisors help learners build a degree plan to customize their course of study. The institution also supports enrollees through academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.
Students at this accredited institution may qualify for loans, scholarships, and grants, including federal programs like the Pell Grant.
East Carolina University At a Glance:
Online Bachelor's Programs: 20 programs
Online Master's Programs: 41 programs
Admission Rate: 88%
Graduation Rate: 65%
Transfer Credits Accepted: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,452
Out-of-state
$20,729
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,749
Out-of-state
$17,898
Retention Rate
83%
Admission Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
28,798
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
93%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#17 Online Registered Nurse (RN) Programs
Ball State University
Muncie, IN
4 years
Online + Campus
From its campus in Muncie, Indiana, Ball State University offers an array of online programs, including a master's degree in nursing. This program helps prepare nurses for advanced healthcare roles, using coursework that expands upon students' previous bachelor's-level education.
The school's online offerings are designed for learners who need more flexible scheduling because of work or other obligations. Faculty advisors help enrollees choose courses that align with their needs. Degree-seekers benefit from institutional support services like academic advising and career services.
Online students can use scholarships, grants, and loans to help defray the cost of their degree.
Ball State University Fast Facts:
Online Bachelor's Programs: 7 programs
Online Master's Programs: 23 programs
Admission Rate: 87%
Graduation Rate: 67%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,482
Out-of-state
$26,470
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,328
Out-of-state
$25,542
Retention Rate
80%
Admission Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
21,597
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
90%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#18 Online Registered Nurse (RN) Programs
Georgia Southern University
Statesboro, GA
4 years
Online + Campus
Georgia Southern University offers a variety of online degrees, including its doctor of nursing practice (DNP) program. This credential helps graduates qualify for academic, administrative, and advanced healthcare roles.
The online learning format appeals to busy students who benefit from flexibility in their schedule. Courses expand learners' understanding of the nursing field and sharpen their analytical and critical thinking skills. Degree-seekers work with faculty advisors to design an individualized course of study. The school supports online enrollees through academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.
Distance learners can pursue loans, scholarships, and grant opportunities like the Pell Grant to help cover educational costs.
Georgia Southern University Fast Facts:
Online Bachelor's Programs: 3 programs
Online Master's Programs: 15 programs
Admission Rate: 91%
Graduation Rate: 54%
Awards Transfer Credits: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,371
Out-of-state
$15,425
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,986
Out-of-state
$19,890
Retention Rate
79%
Admission Rate
91%
Students Enrolled
26,949
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
78%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#19 Online Registered Nurse (RN) Programs
California State University, Chico
Chico, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
California State University, Chico offers online degrees in several fields, including a master of science in nursing program. This degree offers two tracks — nurse educator and nursing leadership — in alternating years.
The school's distance learning model appeals to working professionals and busy students. Enrollees in this program strengthen their communication, critical thinking, and analytical skills as they deepen their knowledge of the nursing field. Learners can individualize their degree through electives and minors. Resources such as academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services help students meet their educational goals.
Enrollees at Chico State can pursue financial aid options like scholarships, grants, and loans.
California State University, Chico Facts:
Online Bachelor's Programs: 4 programs
Online Master's Programs: 3 programs
Admission Rate: 90%
Graduation Rate: 65%
Grants Transfer Credits: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$16,680
Retention Rate
83%
Admission Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
16,746
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#20 Online Registered Nurse (RN) Programs
The University of North Georgia
Dahlonega, GA
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of North Georgia offers online degrees in an array of fields, including a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) program. This terminal degree helps prepare graduates for administrative, research, and advanced healthcare roles.
Working professionals benefit from the program's online format, which can make balancing school and other responsibilities more feasible. As learners take classes about nursing and healthcare, they strengthen their analytical and critical thinking skills. Faculty advisors help students build a degree plan to customize their course of study. Enrollees benefit from the school's support services, which include academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.
Online students can use scholarships, loans, and other forms of financial aid like the Pell Grant to cover their educational costs.
The University of North Georgia Numbers:
Online Bachelor's Programs: 3 programs
Online Master's Programs: 7 programs
Admission Rate: 81%
Graduation Rate: 39%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,969
Out-of-state
$14,123
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,140
Out-of-state
$16,488
Retention Rate
78%
Admission Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
19,793
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
71%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Nursing Degrees
What is the difference between an RN and BSN?
BSN refers to an educational degree for nurses, the bachelor of science in nursing. RN refers to a registered nurse with a state-granted license to practice. According to the BLS, most RNs need at least a bachelor's degree to practice.
How many years does it take to get a nursing degree?
An associate degree in nursing requires about two years. A BSN takes around four years to finish.
Are online nursing programs credible?
RNs need at least an associate degree. RNs with a bachelor's degree enjoy a competitive edge and often earn more money.
Can you be an RN without a bachelor's degree?
Yes. Most hiring managers respect online nursing degrees just as much as traditional, in-person programs. When evaluating your options for an RN degree online, make sure to select an accredited program.
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