Top Online Nursing Programs in the US | Best Choices
Are you thinking about getting an online nursing degree but don’t know which one is right for you? Choosing the right online nursing program can seem hard, but we’re here to guide you. We’ll show you the top online nursing programs in the US. These programs offer flexible, accredited paths to boost your nursing career.
You can start with an entry-level LPN/LVN diploma or go for advanced degrees like MSN and DNP. If you’re a busy professional wanting a BSN, or an aspiring nurse practitioner looking for a specialized FNP program, we’ve got you covered. You’ll find the best online nursing program in the US for your goals.
Key Takeaways
- Explore a variety of flexible, accredited online nursing degree options tailored to your career goals
- Discover the best online nursing programs in the US, from entry-level LPN/LVN diplomas to advanced MSN and DNP programs
- Learn about program types, career opportunities, tuition costs, and financial aid to make an informed decision about your online nursing education
- Find top-ranked online RN programs, accredited online BSN, affordable online MSN, and accelerated online nursing pathways
- Understand the importance of CCNE accreditation and how it ensures the quality of your online nursing program
Overview of Online Nursing Degrees
The online world of nursing education has many programs for different career goals and levels of experience. You can start with a online LPN/LVN diploma or go all the way to a online MSN program. These flexible options help people start or move forward in their nursing careers.
Program Types and Pathways
The online LPN/LVN diploma is a great way to begin a nursing career. It takes 12-18 months and prepares you to be a licensed practical or vocational nurse. If you want to be a registered nurse (RN), you can choose from online ADN programs or online BSN programs.
For those who didn’t study nursing before, online BSN programs can be accelerated. This means you can get your nursing degree faster. Nurses who want to move up can look into online MSN programs. These lead to special roles like nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, and nurse anesthetist, which come with more responsibility and pay.
Career Opportunities and Earning Potential
Online nursing degrees offer a lot of career paths. You can work directly with patients or move into leadership or teaching roles. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says registered nurses will grow by 7% from 2029, showing there’s a big need for skilled nurses.
Advanced roles from online MSN programs also pay more. Nurse practitioners make about $111,680 a year, and nurse anesthetists can earn up to $167,950, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Best Online Nursing Programs in the US
In the United States, several top online nursing programs are known for their quality and results. The University of Florida, University of Central Florida, Atlantis University, Florida International University, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison are among the best.
The University of Florida has an online nursing program with in-state tuition of $4,477 and out-of-state tuition of $25,694. It has a 97% retention rate and an acceptance rate of 31%. This shows it’s a selective and successful program.
| Institution | Average In-State Tuition | Average Out-of-State Tuition | Retention Rate | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Florida | $4,477 | $25,694 | 97% | 31% |
| University of Central Florida | $4,478 | $19,810 | 92% | 45% |
| Atlantis University | $9,840 | N/A | 94% | 0% |
| Florida International University | $4,721 | $16,529 | 91% | 58% |
| University of Wisconsin-Madison | $9,273 | $37,161 | 95% | 57% |
These top online rn programs offer a variety of accredited online nursing schools. They meet the needs of students at all levels, from beginners to advanced roles.
Exploring Online LPN/LVN Diploma Programs
Online LPN/LVN diploma programs are a great choice for those wanting to quickly enter the nursing field. They last about 1 year and teach the basics for entry-level nursing jobs. You’ll learn in places like nursing homes, hospitals, and doctors’ offices.
Curriculum and Clinical Requirements
These programs offer a wide range of courses. You’ll study nursing basics, anatomy, how to give meds, and about diseases. Plus, you’ll get to practice your skills in real-world settings.
After finishing, you must pass the NCLEX-PN test to get your LPN/LVN license. With this license, you can start working as a practical or vocational nurse. You’ll work under RNs in many healthcare places, helping with patient care and supporting the nursing team.
| Program | Tuition (In-State) | Tuition (Out-of-State) |
|---|---|---|
| Lake Area Technical College | $3,720 | N/A |
| Montgomery Community College | $2,432 | $8,576 |
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says LPNs and LVNs make about $59,730 a year on average. The highest pay is in California, Rhode Island, Washington, Alaska, and Massachusetts.
Online LPN/LVN programs, online nursing diploma programs, and entry-level nursing education make getting into nursing easy. By finishing an online LPN to RN program, you can move up to become a registered nurse.
Online ADN Programs: Fastest Path to RN Licensure
Online associate degree in nursing (ADN) programs are a quick way to become a registered nurse (RN). These two-year programs prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam. Students learn important nursing topics like health assessment and clinical rotations.
These programs are great for those who need to balance school with work and family. After finishing an online ADN, students can move on to more advanced degrees. This helps them grow in their nursing careers.
In Georgia, some top online ADN programs are at Georgia Southwestern State University (96.88%), LaGrange College (96.84%), and Reinhardt University (93.1%). The state has over 141,000 nurses but still needs more. Online ADN programs help fill this gap by training nurses fast.
Online ADN programs are also more affordable. At Perimeter College, students get over 60% financial aid. Georgia Northwestern Technical College’s nursing program has a 90% NCLEX pass rate. With the NCLEX exam costing $200, these programs are a smart choice for starting a nursing career.
“The nursing shortage in Georgia is a pressing concern, and online ADN programs are playing a vital role in addressing this critical need. By offering a faster and more accessible route to RN licensure, these programs are empowering more individuals to enter the nursing profession and contribute to the healthcare system.”
Looking to become a registered nurse or advance your nursing career? Online ADN programs in Georgia are a wise choice. They’re efficient, affordable, and can help you reach your goals.
Best Online BSN Programs
For registered nurses (RNs) looking to move up, online BSN programs are a great choice. They offer flexibility and a deep dive into nursing skills. The best programs are accredited, have quality courses, and include real-world clinical experiences. This prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam and various healthcare jobs.
When picking the best online BSN programs, look at tuition, retention rates, NCLEX-RN pass rates, and specialty options. Some top programs in the U.S. include:
- University of Florida-Online – Average in-state tuition of $3,358, 67% retention rate
- University of Central Florida – 92% retention rate, average in-state tuition of $4,478
- Florida International University – 91% retention rate, average in-state tuition of $4,721
- University of Wisconsin-Madison – 95% retention rate, in-state tuition of $9,273
| Online BSN Program | Tuition (In-State) | Retention Rate | NCLEX-RN Pass Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Florida-Online | $3,358 | 67% | 98.39% |
| University of Central Florida | $4,478 | 92% | N/A |
| Florida International University | $4,721 | 91% | N/A |
| University of Wisconsin-Madison | $9,273 | 95% | 95.22% |
These leading online bsn programs give a strong base in nursing theory, research, leadership, and special areas. They also offer the flexibility needed for working nurses to advance. Graduates are ready for the NCLEX-RN exam and various healthcare roles. They can also move on to graduate-level nursing education.
Accelerated BSN Pathways for Non-Nursing Graduates
If you have a degree in a field other than nursing, an accelerated online BSN (ABSN) program can help you get your nursing degree quickly. These programs are made for students with different backgrounds. They prepare you to be a skilled, ethical, and evidence-based nurse ready to give top-notch patient care.
With an accelerated online BSN program, you can get your nursing degree in just two years. You can keep your current job while you finish the program. This makes it a great choice for those looking to switch careers to nursing.
The number of programs for entry-level nursing has jumped a lot, from 293 in 2013 to 16,935 students in 2014. This shows a 4.7% increase in graduates. Many healthcare employers support these programs. They see the value in getting entry-level nurses faster than traditional ways.
| University | Program Length | Tuition Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Emory University | 1 year (3 semesters) | $1,656 per credit hour |
| University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh | 12 months | $695 per credit |
| Kent State University | 15 months | $1,095 per credit |
| University of Texas at Arlington | 15 months | $750 per credit |
| Herzing University | 36 months | $900 per credit |
| Wilkes University | 12 months | $925 per credit |
| Marymount University | 16 months | $1,150 per credit |
To get into an accelerated online BSN program, you’ll need to submit official transcripts and have a minimum GPA of 2.5 to 3.0. You’ll also need personal statements, prerequisite courses, and letters of recommendation. Application deadlines vary, with many programs having rolling admissions, especially for online courses.
No matter your past academic background, an accelerated BSN program offers a quick and flexible way to start a rewarding nursing career. By using your previous education, you can become a registered nurse (RN) much faster than traditional programs.
Best online nursing program in us for Advanced Practice Roles
Online master of science in nursing (MSN) programs lead to advanced roles like nurse practitioner and nurse anesthetist. They let registered nurses (RNs) focus on areas like family nursing and pediatrics. This gives them the skills for more independent patient care.
Online MSN Degree Specializations
These programs include advanced nursing theory, research, and clinical experiences. They prepare students for certification and state licensure as advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). Some top online MSN programs in the US for these roles are:
- University of Southern California – offers an average tuition of $60,446 with a 96% retention rate and 46% of students enrolled online.
- George Washington University – has an average tuition of $57,894, a 91% retention rate, and 26% of students enrolled online.
- University of West Florida – provides an average in-state tuition of $3,735 and an 84% retention rate, with 88% of students enrolled online.
- Cedarville University – has an average tuition of $33,174, an 86% retention rate, and 39% of students enrolled online.
- Harding University – offers an average tuition of $21,690, an 84% retention rate, and 30% of students enrolled online.
These schools offer specializations like family nurse practitioner and psychiatric-mental health. They prepare students for advanced nursing roles.
| University | Average Tuition | Retention Rate | Online Enrollment |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Southern California | $60,446 | 96% | 46% |
| George Washington University | $57,894 | 91% | 26% |
| University of West Florida | $3,735 (in-state) | 84% | 88% |
| Cedarville University | $33,174 | 86% | 39% |
| Harding University | $21,690 | 84% | 30% |
Financing Your Online Nursing Education
Getting an online nursing degree means looking at tuition costs and financial aid. Tuition for online nursing programs ranges from $120 to $459 per credit. But, most online programs for RN-to-BSN and accelerated BSN need fewer credits than a traditional four-year BSN. This can make the cost lower.
To pay for your online nursing education, fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This lets you get scholarships, grants, and work-study programs. Also, check out funding from your school, nursing groups, and private sources.
Tuition Costs and Financial Aid Options
Online nursing programs can be expensive. But, there are many ways to make them more affordable.
- Complete the FAFSA to access federal scholarships, grants, and work-study programs
- Explore scholarships and grants from your school, nursing groups, and private sources
- Consider nursing student loans, which often have lower interest rates and more repayment options than private loans
- Look into employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement programs, which can help offset the cost of your online nursing degree
| Institution | In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Weber State University | $5,090 | $15,272 |
| Western Kentucky University | $11,112 | $27,000 |
| Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College | $3,300 | $6,600 |
| Bristol Community College | $576 | $5,520 |
| Davidson-Davie Community College | $2,072 | $7,504 |
Financing your online nursing education is key, but don’t let it be the only thing you think about. Look at all your options and pick the program that matches your goals.
Accreditation and Licensing for Online Nursing Programs
When picking an online nursing program, look at accreditation and licensing. Good programs get approval from groups like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). This means the program meets high standards and gets you ready for a nursing job.
It’s also key to check if the program meets your state’s nursing license rules. Most programs prepare you for exams like the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN. Getting the right accreditation and license proves your education’s quality and lets you work as a nurse after you graduate.
Accredited Online Nursing Programs
- The University of Arkansas at Little Rock has an average in-state tuition of $6,495 and out-of-state tuition of $18,750 for its accredited online nursing programs.
- Franklin University in Columbus, OH, shows an average tuition of $9,552 for in-state and out-of-state students for their accredited online nursing programs.
- Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis in Indianapolis, IN, has an average in-state tuition of $8,795 and out-of-state tuition of $30,477 for its accredited online nursing programs.
These are just a few examples of the many accredited online nursing programs out there. Each has different costs and details. Make sure to look into them carefully to find the right one for your goals.
Nursing Licensing Requirements
What you need to do to get licensed as a nurse depends on your role. For example, to be a Registered Nurse (RN), you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam. If you want to be a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), you need to pass the NCLEX-PN exam.
Make sure the accredited online nursing program you pick fits your state’s licensing needs. This way, you’ll be ready for the exams and can get your nursing license when you graduate.
Tips for Choosing the Right Online Nursing Pathway
Choosing the right online nursing program is important. You need to think about your goals, how you like to learn, and your life situation. Look at the program’s accreditation, what you’ll study, the clinical parts, the teachers, support for students, and costs.
When looking at online nursing degree options, see if they match your nursing goals or leadership dreams. Think about how flexible the program is. Does it offer courses at times that fit your work and life?
- Look for programs accredited by recognized bodies like the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC), the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
- Evaluate the curriculum to ensure it covers the essential nursing competencies and provides opportunities for hands-on clinical experiences.
- Assess the faculty’s qualifications and their expertise in the specific nursing specialties you are interested in.
- Inquire about the availability of student support services, such as academic advising, tutoring, and career guidance, to help you succeed.
- Compare tuition costs and explore financial aid options, as online nursing programs typically feature lower tuition and fewer student fees.
By thinking about these things, you can pick the online nursing program that fits your goals and life. This way, you can move forward in your career without giving up your personal life or how you like to learn.
“The right online nursing program can provide the flexibility and convenience you need to advance your career, without compromising the quality of your education.”
Transition to Professional Nursing Practice
Finishing your online nursing program is just the start of your journey. After you graduate, you must pass the nursing licensure exam, like the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN, to get your nursing license. This lets you start working. Many programs also prepare you for nursing certifications, which can make your career more specialized.
As you move into your nursing career, look for mentors and keep learning. This will help you grow in your professional nursing roles.
- Get your nursing license by passing the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN exam.
- Look into getting more nursing certifications that fit your career goals.
- Find mentors and networking chances to meet experienced nurses.
- Keep up with new nursing practices by taking continuing education courses.
- Be ready for new challenges and take on more responsibilities to move forward in your nursing career.
| University | LPN-to-RN Program Tuition | Retention Rate | Acceptance Rate | Online Enrollment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Arkansas | In-state: $7,666, Out-of-state: $24,482 | 87% | 83% | 35% |
| Excelsior College | No tuition fees listed | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Southwestern Oklahoma State University | In-state: $6,368, Out-of-state: $13,478 | 65% | 94% | 70% |
| Pennsylvania College of Technology | In-state: $15,120, Out-of-state: $22,680 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Wilson College | In-state and Out-of-state: $25,200 | 65% | 93% | 75% |
| Missouri Valley College | In-state and Out-of-state: $20,500 | 47% | 66% | 17% |
Your move to professional nursing is an exciting journey. Keep working on your skills and you’ll have a fulfilling nursing career.
Continuing Education and Career Advancement
Your journey as a nurse doesn’t stop after you get an online nursing degree. It’s important to keep learning to stay current with new trends and tech. Many online programs offer specializations and career boosts, like RN-to-BSN or MSN-to-DNP.
Getting more nursing continuing education can lead to more freedom, higher pay, and more career chances. You can take courses on topics like recognizing strokes, fighting viruses, and making healthcare fairer. There’s also training in integrative nursing, handling shift work, and preventing violence at work.
For instance, “Not Your Grandpa’s Stroke” gives 1.4 hours of CE credits. “How Do Viruses Cause Infection” offers 0.75 credits. “See You Now: Focus on Health Equity” gives four hours of credits until December 15, 2024. Sites like Coursera and Alison have thousands of participants and high ratings, offering easy, fun, and approved learning to boost your career.
If you want to improve your clinical skills, explore new areas, or lead teams, there are many chances for nursing continuing education and career advancement. By always learning, you can lead in nursing and set yourself up for success.
Conclusion
The United States has many flexible, accredited online nursing programs. These programs meet different educational and career goals. You can find diplomas for LPN/LVN to advanced degrees like MSN and DNP.
When choosing an online nursing program, look at accreditation, curriculum, clinical requirements, costs, and financial aid. This helps you pick the right path for your career goals.
There’s a big need for registered nurses, making an online nursing education a smart choice. Programs like the University of Massachusetts Amherst’s BSN, Cedarville University’s nursing minor, and Drexel University’s accelerated BSN can help you stand out.
With the right online nursing education, you’ll be ready to give top-notch patient care. You’ll make a big impact in the nursing field. By picking the best online nursing program for you, you’re starting a rewarding career in healthcare.
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