Online Registered Nurse (RN) Programs

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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Updated September 22, 2023 · 2 Min Read

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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.

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.

Explore online degree programs.

Our partner schools offer programs that help you advance your education while accommodating your schedule. Visit their sites to learn more about degrees, course offerings, start dates, transfer of credits, and more.

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.
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.
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.
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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:

  1. Research registered nursing programs online to find the best one for your goals.
  2. Apply for an ADN or BSN program online.
  3. Complete your online registered nursing program coursework and clinical experience.
  4. Study for and pass the NCLEX-RN.
  5. Apply for your RN license through your state nursing board.
  6. 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:

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.

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.

Explore online degree programs.

Our partner schools offer programs that help you advance your education while accommodating your schedule. Visit their sites to learn more about degrees, course offerings, start dates, transfer of credits, and more.

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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