Online ADN Programs in Ohio: Top Schools for Career Success

Inside Online ADN Classes in Ohio

An online associate degree in nursing is an accessible way to get the training you need to transition to the medical field as a nurse. In some cases, you can choose a program that allows you to take online coursework on an asynchronous basis, which means you can watch lectures during a time that works best for your schedule. On the other hand, some programs require students to attend synchronous classes, meaning that you will be attending them on a set schedule.

Some online programs are hybrid, meaning that you will be required to participate in on-campus learning in some capacity. In this case, you will divide your time between online and in-person coursework even if you take classes entirely online, as you will still need to go on campus for other essential types of training required for your success as a nurse. These programs allow students to learn virtually and get hands-on training during clinical experiences at healthcare facilities.

Everything You Need to Know: Student FAQs

As you hone in on your search for an online associate degree in nursing program in Ohio, you’ll want to make sure every one of your questions is answered. This will help you make the best decision for your personal circumstances. Below, we answer some of the more specific questions many prospective students have about ADN programs and their features.

Is financial aid available to help me fund my ADN program in Ohio?

Yes; as with any university, the school you choose to pursue your ADN at will recommend you apply for financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This allows you to access federal funding, including lower-interest loans that qualify for federal incentives like student loan forgiveness and income-driven repayment plans.

Also, many schools offer grants and scholarships for RNs which you don’t need to pay back. These are often based on financial need or educational merit. For example, East Ohio College offers general scholarships, as well as awards specifically for nursing students. Similarly, James A. Rhodes State College offers funding based on students’ academic performance and financial background. Furthermore, some online nursing programs offer financial aid that potential students can take advantage of.

Should an ADN program be accredited?

Yes. In fact, ensuring that a nursing school is accredited should be one of your first priorities in your program search. Accreditation means that the program you’re looking at is certified by a professional board, such as the Ohio Board of Nursing. Most employers, particularly those in the medical field, hire exclusively from among a pool of graduates of accredited universities or programs. This stamp of approval shows that your program met certain standards and taught you the skills necessary for you to perform your job effectively. Nursing degree programs are accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

Will I be required to complete a clinical experience during an ADN program?

Yes; all nursing programs will require you to complete clinical hours at an approved medical facility, even if you’re an online student. This gives you the hands-on experience necessary to do your future job well. Most universities have placement opportunities in hospitals and other large medical clinics, but many also offers students interested in smaller healthcare settings the opportunity to complete placements in long-term care facilities or elder-care homes.

When considering schools, look closely at their community partnerships and clinical placement programs as this will make it much easier to fulfill the clinical graduation requirement. East Ohio College, for instance, has relationships with several organizations that host students for their clinical rotations. Some of these locations include Alliance Community Hospital, Trinity East Hospital, and East Liverpool City Hospital.

Do I need to pass an exam to get a nursing license?

Yes. The National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) is an exam all nurses must pass before they can practice independently in a clinical setting. It tests entry-level knowledge you’re expected to have acquired through an ADN program. It also tests your ability to provide safe, effective, and equitable care in a real-world healthcare setting.

The higher the NCLEX-RN pass rate a university has, the more well-prepared their students are. There is a relatively high national pass rate for this exam (70.38%), an indicator that many programs prepare students well. Passing the NCLEX-RN is vital to your career, so be sure to use resources such as our beginner’s guide to the NCLEX and our essential study skills guide for online health students. Also look at the resources offered by the school of your choice. For example, ensure that they offer study sessions and practice exams regularly.

Do I need to take continuing education to maintain my nursing license?

Yes; in order to maintain your nursing license, the Ohio Board of Nursing requires a renewal every 2 years plus 24 hours of continuing education credits. Continuing education classes should cover areas like appropriate professional conduct and medication administration.

This is not the only way you can further continue your education, however. Many students opt to continue their education and earn a BSN in Nursing. This provides a more in-depth medical background, helping graduates access more advanced jobs, often with higher salaries. If you’re interested in becoming a nursing professor or researcher, you will want to earn a doctoral degree.

ADN Salaries in Ohio

There are many benefits of earning a nursing associate degree. There are some accelerated ADN programs, so you can complete your studies in a relatively short period of time. If you choose an online option, the schedule is flexible. When you’re finished with your degree and earn your license, you will earn $76,361 per year on average in Ohio. Some of the common career paths for those with an ADN include travel, home health, and emergency nursing positions. Also, RNs with an associate degree may work for doctors in private practice.

Despite the benefits of getting an associate degree, it makes sense to continue your education. Earning a BSN degree opens you up to more job opportunities, including nurse informatics, researcher, and manager positions. In fact, many employers actually require that their nurses have a bachelor’s degree to qualify for nursing jobs. To meet this demand, schools like Wittenberg University, Ohio State College, and Ohio State University have created BSN programs to provide nurses with this higher level of training.

Additionally, when you further your education, you will position yourself to earn more money. With a bachelor’s degree, nurses can make $84,426 per year. If you want to progress to the doctoral level, you can get a salary boost of $107,737 annually.

Ranking the Top Online ADN Programs in Ohio