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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.
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.
Are you ready to discover your college program?
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 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's of science in nursing (BSN) leads to even more opportunities. Thanks to online RN programs, aspiring nurses can 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.
Featured Online Nursing Schools and Programs
Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.
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.
At North Central Missouri College, a public institution, degree-seekers can choose from online and on-campus programs. The school delivers 35 programs, including 17 online programs for distance learners. The flexible PN-to-ADN program is ideal for students with personal or professional responsibilities.
To complete the associate program, learners fulfill requirements including core major classes, upper-division coursework, and general education classes. The curriculum features electives and experiential learning opportunities, which help degree-seekers develop skills for careers. For assistance locating job placements, undergraduates and alumni can consult with the school's career counselors.
The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees can submit the FAFSA to receive federal loans and grants, such as the Pell Grant. An admissions advisor can provide specific application details, including requirements and deadlines.
North Central Missouri College At a Glance:
Number of Online Students: 1,108
Graduation Rate: 41%
Applies Transfer Credits: No
Average Tuition
In-state
$4,440
Out-of-state
$5,370
Retention Rate
55%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,746
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
63%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Online Nursing Programs
Allegany College of Maryland
Cumberland, MD
2 years
Online + Campus
Online learners can enroll in the from Allegany College of Maryland. Located in Cumberland, the public institution's 60 programs include nine online options.
The institution delivers LPN-to-RN program coursework in a virtual classroom environment, using the latest technology. The curriculum features specialized classes and foundational core coursework, helping students gain a broad knowledge base. Degree-seekers gain transferable skills while completing general education coursework. Internship opportunities allow undergraduates to gain professional experience, which they can add to their resume.
Distance learners can access support services such as tutoring and career counseling. Students at the accredited institution can qualify for federal grants and loans. The school's dedicated financial aid counselors work with students as they locate and apply for educational funding.
Average Tuition
In-state
$7,200
Out-of-state
$9,120
Retention Rate
60%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,584
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
45%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#3 Online Nursing Programs
Minnesota West Community and Technical College
Granite Falls, MN
2 years
Online + Campus
Learners interested in nursing can pursue the AS in nursing from Minnesota West Community and Technical College in a flexible online format. Degree-seekers can complete the school's programs at its Granite Falls campus.
The flexible associate in nursing program delivers scheduling options for online learners. Working professionals who enroll in online programs can complete academic requirements around their schedule. The program's online format allows learners to view lectures and participate in discussions virtually. Degree-seekers enrolled full time typically require two years to complete an online associate program.
Learners at the school access affordable tuition rates and institutional funding, which can reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Degree-seekers with financial need can apply for federal loans and grants, such as the Pell Grant. Students can consult with financial aid counselors to explore funding options, such as scholarships and grants.
Average Tuition
In-state
$5,300
Out-of-state
$10,600
Retention Rate
59%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
3,421
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Online Nursing Programs
Northwest Technical College
Bemidji, MN
2 years
Online + Campus
Students can pursue Northwest Technical College's on-campus programs or enroll online. From its campus in Bemidji, Minnesota, the school enrolls learners in 78 programs, including 44 online programs. Students interested in nursing can pursue the institution's flexible associate in nursing.
The associate program requires general education courses and major classes. The curriculum blends classroom learning and hands-on experiences to prepare degree-seekers to succeed in the nursing field. The school's online career resources include faculty advisors and career counselors, who help undergraduates locate job placements.
Enrollees at the accredited institution can receive federal financial aid, such as the Pell Grant. For specific application details, including requirements and deadlines, prospective students can contact an admissions advisor.
Northwest Technical College Numbers:
Number of Online Students: 649
Graduation Rate: 31%
Transfer Credits Permitted: No
Average Tuition
In-state
$5,346
Out-of-state
$5,346
Retention Rate
64%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
947
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
69%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Online Nursing Programs
Excelsior College
Albany, NY
4 years
Online
Excelsior College delivers respected, accessible online undergraduate programs for distance degree-seekers. The private institution is based in Albany, New York, where it delivers on-campus programs. The online associate of applied science in nursing program emphasizes scheduling flexibility.
The virtual classroom environment helps learners gain important technology skills. Online classes feature virtual discussions and opportunities to consult with faculty members. Core and general education classes help degree-seekers in the nursing program develop transferable skills and prepare for advanced coursework. After earning their associate degree, graduates often pursue entry-level nursing careers.
Admissions advisors provide prospective students with program-specific application details.
Excelsior College Numbers:
Total Bachelor's Programs: 54
Online Bachelor's Programs: 54
Percentage of Learners Awarded Student Loans: 13%
Grants Transfer Credits: No
Average Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
25,245
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Why Get an RN Degree Online?
If you're wondering how to become an RN online, distance learning offers flexible RN classes online with in-person clinical experiences within 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 features student discussion boards, virtual office hours, and remote access to library services, technology help, and advising.
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 2019-20 school year, undergraduate tuition at two-year schools averaged $11,391. Learners at four-year institutions spent an average of $28,775.
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.
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 nationwide salary for RNs at $77,600 per year. Wages vary according to geographic location, education level, and years of experience. For example, RNs in South Dakota earn average salaries of $60,540, while California RNs average $124,000. The top ten highest-paying metropolitan areas are in California, with RNs in the San Jose area averaging $155,230 a year.
Payscale data from October 2022 shows ADN-holders earn an average $73,000 annually, while BSN-holders earn $89,000. RNs with 1-4 years of experience earn an average of $29.70 per year, but 10-19 years of experience increases pay to $35.10.
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
Nursing foundations covers the basics of the nursing profession. Students learn common job responsibilities. 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.
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. Taken about a month after graduating from nursing school, the exam 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-nine states belong to the Nurse Licensure Compact, which allows practice under a multi-state license in any other compact member state. Nursing licenses generally renew every two years, and state boards require continuing education credits for each renewal period.
School Reviews from Nursing & Healthcare Students
We believe the best people to share about online learning experiences are students who have really done it, which is why we surveyed 600 unique students. Filter to find a student like you or sort to read the good, the bad, and everything in between. By leaving a review, students were entered to win a sweepstakes.
Filter reviews by:
Student characteristics
Topic
* means this student may have had to visit the campus a few times a year for their program.
Age 37
Medical Coding
UCF
Online
Experience
5.0
Value
4.0
Affordability
4.0
Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?
"I want to grow in my company."
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 29
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
University of Wyoming
Online
Experience
4.0
Value
5.0
Affordability
3.0
What did you like most about your online college experience?
"Flexibility of doing school at whatever time of day worked best for me"
Financial assitance
First generation student
Works in field of study
Recommends
Age 30
Bachelor of Science - Health Administration
University of Phoenix
Online
Experience
3.0
Value
2.0
Affordability
1.0
How has completing an online degree changed your life?
"My daughter was able to see her mother get a degree."
Financial assitance
First generation student
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 36
Medical Lab Science
CNM
Online *
Experience
3.0
Value
3.0
Affordability
3.0
Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?
"More flexible and costs less"
Financial assitance
Has support system
Doesn't recommend
Age 59
Bachelor of Nursing
Chamberlain University
Online
Experience
4.0
Value
5.0
Affordability
4.0
Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?
"In case my employer requires nurses to hold a BSN in the future"
Financial assitance
First generation student
Works in field of study
Recommends
Age 21
Healthcare
McHenry County College
Online
Experience
5.0
Value
5.0
Affordability
5.0
How has completing an online degree changed your life?
"Made me realize that I should take time for personal happiness."
Financial assitance
First generation student
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 28
Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration
Grand Canyon University Online
Online
Experience
4.0
Value
5.0
Affordability
3.0
Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?
"Because I couldn't keep traveling to school, and I needed to work in order to finish school"
Financial assitance
Works in field of study
Recommends
Age 51
Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
Spring Arbor University
Online *
Experience
5.0
Value
5.0
Affordability
4.0
Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?
"Convenience, flexible schedule"
Financial assitance
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 27
Bachelor's in Nursing
University of Phoenix
Online *
Experience
4.0
Value
3.0
Affordability
4.0
Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?
"To further my career"
Financial assitance
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 37
Associate in Medical Coding
Mid State Technical college
Online *
Experience
5.0
Value
5.0
Affordability
5.0
Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?
"To have a degree for my line of work, as I didn't use my BS"
First generation student
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 52
Associate in Medical Coding and Auditing
Three Rivers Community College
Online
Experience
4.0
Value
5.0
Affordability
3.0
Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?
"The ability to complete work on my schedule"
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 67
Medical Billing and Coding
Owens College and Bowling Green State University
Online
Experience
4.0
Value
5.0
Affordability
5.0
How has completing an online degree changed your life?
"It's allowing me the chance to be in the career I've always wanted to be in."
Financial assitance
First generation student
Works in field of study
Recommends
Age 21
BS in Medical Assisting
Monroe Community College
Online
Experience
5.0
Value
3.0
Affordability
3.0
What advice would you give to a student looking to enroll in an online program?
"Go for it! But at a community college"
Financial assitance
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 52
Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration
Upper Iowa University
Online
Experience
5.0
Value
5.0
Affordability
2.0
How has completing an online degree changed your life?
"I got a promotion at work. I achieved a personal dream and goal."
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 63
Master of Science in Nursing
WGU
Online
Experience
5.0
Value
4.0
Affordability
5.0
How has completing an online degree changed your life?
"I have job security. A master's was required in my job."
First generation student
Has support system
Recommends
Age 46
Associate in Medical Billing and Coding
Bryant and Stratton College
Online
Experience
5.0
Value
5.0
Affordability
5.0
How has completing an online degree changed your life?
"My income is higher and my education is bigger."
Financial assitance
Recommends
Age 26
Nursing Administration
Chamberlain
Online
Experience
5.0
Value
5.0
Affordability
5.0
How has completing an online degree changed your life?
"I am able to advance my career and make more money."
Financial assitance
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 29
Medical Billing and Office Administration
Martinsburg College
Online
Experience
4.0
Value
1.0
Affordability
5.0
What advice would you give to a student looking to enroll in an online program?
"Don't do medical billing online; it isn't worth it."
Financial assitance
First generation student
Doesn't recommend
Age 59
Master of Science in Nursing Education
Benedictine University
Online
Experience
3.0
Value
4.0
Affordability
4.0
What were the challenges of getting your degree online?
"Time management was an issue at times and feeling like I was as alone in my class work. Also, having instructors who were not really involved in the class and gave only minimal feedback to students work and participation."
Financial assitance
First generation student
Has support system
Recommends
Age 32
RN-to-BSN
Houston Baptist University
Online
Experience
3.0
Value
5.0
Affordability
1.0
Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?
"Worked better with my work schedule, and I had to work to maintain my license"
First generation student
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 28
Medical Billing and Coding
Phoenix
Online *
Experience
4.0
Value
5.0
Affordability
4.0
How has completing an online degree changed your life?
"It has given me more opportunities for jobs in my rural area."
First generation student
Doesn't recommend
Age 36
Medical Billing and Coding
Tarrant County College
Online
Experience
5.0
Value
4.0
Affordability
3.0
What were the challenges of getting your degree online?
"Not being able to get immediate responses to questions"
Financial assitance
First generation student
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 44
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Brigham Young University-Idaho
Online
Experience
5.0
Value
5.0
Affordability
5.0
Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?
"More conducive to working full time while doing school."
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 26
Nursing
Daytona State College
Online *
Experience
5.0
Value
5.0
Affordability
5.0
What advice would you give to a student looking to enroll in an online program?
"Stay focused; be consistent and you'll be there!"
Financial assitance
First generation student
Has support system
Recommends
Age 28
Nursing
Online School
Online *
Experience
3.0
Value
3.0
Affordability
3.0
What did you like most about your online college experience?
"Flexibility"
Financial assitance
First generation student
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 35
Medical Billing and coding Sociology
Calhoun Community College
Online
Experience
4.0
Value
4.0
Affordability
4.0
Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?
"I have seizures and am unable to go to a classroom. The program keeps me busy."
Financial assitance
First generation student
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 30
Associate Medical Billing
Liberty
Online
Experience
3.0
Value
4.0
Affordability
4.0
What were the challenges of getting your degree online?
"Having time to do work in school"
First generation student
Has support system
Recommends
Age 36
Bachelor's Degree in Nursing
Widener University in Chester pa
Online
Experience
4.0
Value
5.0
Affordability
2.0
Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?
"Ability to work full time and complete coursework when schedule allowed"
First generation student
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 30
Nursing
University of Mary
Online *
Experience
5.0
Value
5.0
Affordability
4.0
What did you like most about your online college experience?
"Freedom"
Financial assitance
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 39
Master of Nursing
Capella University
Online
Experience
4.0
Value
5.0
Affordability
3.0
What were the challenges of getting your degree online?
"Mainly financial challenges, but also practicum requirements. I was on my own to find placement."
Financial assitance
First generation student
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 35
Master of Science in Nursing - Family Practice Nurse Practitioner
Ohio University
Online *
Experience
3.0
Value
5.0
Affordability
3.0
Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?
"Managing work and family - I would not have had the time to attend in person classes"
Financial assitance
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 34
Technical Certificate in Medical Assisting with a Concentration in Phlebotomy
Ivy Tech Community college
Online *
Experience
5.0
Value
5.0
Affordability
5.0
What were the challenges of getting your degree online?
"Being able to maintain a GPA of 3.6 while not missing any school"
Financial assitance
First generation student
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 31
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Capella University
Online
Experience
5.0
Value
5.0
Affordability
4.0
What were the challenges of getting your degree online?
"Scheduling time to do schoolwork with other things going on."
Financial assitance
First generation student
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 36
Bachelorof Science - Healthcare Administration
University of Phoenix
Online
Experience
4.0
Value
5.0
Affordability
4.0
What were the challenges of getting your degree online?
"There was no hands-on experience."
Financial assitance
First generation student
Works in field of study
Recommends
Age 38
Medical Billing
Study USA
Online
Experience
5.0
Value
5.0
Affordability
4.0
What were the challenges of getting your degree online?
"complete the hours on internet"
First generation student
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 35
Master's in Healthcare
Golden Gate University
Online
Experience
5.0
Value
5.0
Affordability
4.0
Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?
"I love learning online"
Works in field of study
Has support system
Recommends
Age 29
Bachelor of Science - Healthcare Administration
University of Cincinnati
Online *
Experience
4.0
Value
5.0
Affordability
3.0
Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?
"Easier to do while working full time"
Has support system
Recommends
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