Online Nursing Programs: Finding the Degree You Need

Q: What is the quickest RN program?

The quickest RN program is an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). These programs take usually two years to complete and range from $15,000 to $30,000 in price. However, if you are a registered LPN or LVN there are bridge programs that allow you to take the experience you have to earn an RN degree and certification. These programs typically take a year to complete, depending on the amount of experience you have, and cost about $20,000.

When looking to become a nurse, you have options. Certificates get you working fast, while degrees (ADN or BSN) can set you up for long-term success as a registered nurse (RN). And if you need a more flexible option, online nursing programs blend online coursework and in-person clinicals to train you to compete in the real-world. Let EduMed show you how it all works, and how to find the online RN program for you.

The following professionals lent their expertise to this article:

Author: Shannon Lee

HealthcareNursingHealthcare Admin

Editor: Wes Ricketts

EditorialSenior CareDementia Care

Updated: 10/10/2025

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Getting Started
What to Expect
Related Degrees
Programs By State
Student FAQs
Comparing Cost
Certification
Salary & Pay
Top Schools

Getting Started

Earning a degree in nursing requires commitment. Before you take that first (or next) step, make sure you’re ready. Answer the following questions to begin your journey toward choosing a school and earning your first (or next) nursing credential.

What nursing degree do I need? Each level of nursing has minimum degree standards in each state.
Is online learning right for me? Are you self-motivated and able to complete online coursework independently?
Can I afford college right now? Do I have the funds to enroll in a degree program, or can I get financial aid?
Do I have the time? Earning a nursing degree while working requires both motivation and dedication. Am I ready?
Do I have the prerequisites completed? Have I taken all the necessary courses for the online nursing program I want? If not, will my experience make up the difference?

How Online Nursing Programs Work

Aspiring registered nurses have a number of degree options to choose from. An associate degree offers a quick, two-year pathway to registered nursing. A bachelor’s degree usually takes four years, but can steer you toward long-term career growth faster.

Online RN programs have become increasingly popular over the past decade. Schools across the country now offer online ADN programs (2 years) and online BSN programs (4 years) for students who need flexibility. Accelerated online programs for certain types of nurses may exist, as well.

Let’s review three actual online nursing programs, and keep a special eye on curriculum, cost, accreditation, and NCLEX-RN pass rates.

Associate’s Degree in Nursing – Northwood Technical College

Northwood Technical College offers an ACEN accredited part-time Associate Degree in Nursing designed to accommodate working students. This flexible program covers professional nursing skills, patient care, and clinical practice through a combination of online and in-person classes.

The part-time option spans over a four-year period compared to traditional full-time option, which typically take two years to complete. Regardless of the pace, this degree program requires 70 credits of online theory coursework and on-site skill labs. Upon graduation, you are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam for registered nurse licensure.

Duration: 70 Credits (4 years)

Mode: Hybrid

Cost: $12,568

Admissions Requirements:

Complete the online application form
Complete Core Nursing Accuplacer entrance assessment
Review and sign Background Check Disclosure
Review and sign Functional Abilities Disclosure
Have high school diploma or GED
Pass one year of high school chemistry or one credit of college chemistry with a 2.0 or better
Complete a Nursing Assistant course with a grade of 2.0 or better
Complete admissions meeting with a Northwood Tech counselor
Proof of immunization against measles, mumps, rubella, and tetanus-diphtheria

Curriculum:

Core Courses: 27 credits in anatomy, psychology, biology, interpersonal communication, and writing

Major Requirements: 41 Credits

Nursing Fundamentals
Nursing Pharmacology
Nursing Skills
Intro to Clinical Practice
Health Promotion
Clinical Care Across Lifespan
Health Alterations
Intro Clinical Care Management
Complex Health Alterations I
Nursing Mental Health and Community Concepts
Intermediate Clinical Practice
Advanced Nursing Skills
Complex Health Alterations II
Management and Professional Capstone
Advanced Clinical Practice
Nursing Clinical Transition

Elective Courses: 5 Credits

Best for: Students who desire a fast track to becoming an RN, yet want to keep the option of earning a bachelor’s degree later on.

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RN to Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing – Ohio State University

The Ohio State University College of Nursing offers an online RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree to allow professional nurses to expand their career opportunities with an advanced education.

This fully online program is for current registered nurses who have an associate degree in nursing. There is no prerequisites requirement for admission into the program and you can use your experience as an RN towards your clinical practicum requirement.

Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), this program focuses on collaboration and asynchronous project-based work to ensure that you are receiving a quality education that fits around your schedule.

Duration: 30 credits

Mode: Fully Online

Cost: $18,629 – $21,833.88

Admissions Requirements:

Complete Common Application as a “Nursing” applicant
Have a high school diploma or GED
High school GPA of 3.00 or higher
Complete online application
Be at least 18 years of age
Proof of immunization against measles, mumps, rubella, and tetanus-diphtheria
Criminal background check and drug screening

Curriculum:

Foundations and Contemporary Issues for RNs
Cultural Competence in Health Care: US and Global Contexts
Concepts in Community Health Nursing
Evolving Concepts in Leadership and Management
Health Care Informatics
Interprofessional Concepts
Evidence Based Practice: Transforming Healthcare

Best for: Students looking to land a stronger first position in nursing and who may want to seek upper-level management through experience and/or a master’s degree in the field

Master’s Degree in Nursing – Maryville University

Maryville University offers an online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program with five concentrations: Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

You can expect to complete about 60 to 63 credits depending on the concentration you choose. The program is fully online with in person clinicals you can complete locally. However, you must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 in all prior college work to apply.

Duration: 63 credits (2 years)

Mode: Hybrid

Cost: $35,383 – $43,150

Admissions Requirements:

3.0 cumulative college GPA
Have active RN license
Have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from an ACEN/CCNE/CNEA-accredited institution
Be at least 18 years of age
Complete online application
Submit your current resume or CV
Provide all college transcripts
Proof of immunization against measles, mumps, rubella, and tetanus-diphtheria
Criminal background check and drug screening

Curriculum:

Core Courses: 29 Credits

Theoretical Foundations of Nursing Practice
Evidence Based Practice in Nursing
Health Care Policy
Professional Role Development: Advanced Practice Nurse
Health Promotion/Disease Prevention
Advanced Pathophysiology
Advanced Health Assessment
Advanced Pharmacotherapeutics
Leadership and Quality

Concentration Credits: 47-50 credits in either Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP), Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP), Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP), or Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

Best for: Established professionals who want to take the next step in their professional development and progress into a leadership role.

Find Online Nursing Programs Near You

Answers to Common RN Student Questions

At any degree level, nursing school is a big commitment. Therefore, like most prospective nursing students, you might have some questions about the legitimacy on online nursing programs, certification requirements, the job outlook, and the demands of nursing school. Below you’ll find the answers to some of the most student pressing questions about online nursing programs.

What is the quickest RN program?

The quickest path to become a registered nurse is an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). These programs take usually two years to complete and range from $15,000 to $30,000 in price.

However, if you are a registered LPN or LVN, there are bridge programs that allow you to take the experience you have to earn an RN degree and certification. These programs typically take a year to complete, depending on the amount of experience you have, and cost about $20,000.

Can you take the NCLEX without going to nursing school?

No, you cannot take the NCLEX-RN without going to nursing school. You must complete at least an associate-level nursing program to be considered eligible for the NLCEX-RN certification.

Other requirements for the exam include completing clinical hours, having a clear criminal record, and proof of identity.

However, there are some nontraditional routes to taking the NCLEX exam. For example, LPN to RN Bridge programs qualify you for the exam even though it is not the traditional educational route. If you are a foreign-trained nurse, you could be eligible for the NCLEX exam without having a U.S. nursing degree, but this will depend on if the Board of Nursing approves your credentials.

What is the most in demand nursing job?

In 2023, the most in demand nursing job was a nurse practitioner. This job has the closest responsibilities to a doctor, including prescribing medication and diagnosing conditions. However, the education required for an NP is a master’s or doctoral degree. Other popular nursing specialties are certified registered nurse anesthetists, who administer anesthesia in collaboration with anesthesiologists, and neonatal nurses.

What is the difference between a two-year RN and a four-year RN?

The difference between a 2-year RN and a 4-year RN is the education level. Two-year RN’s have an associate degree in nursing (ADN) while four-year RN’s have a bachelor’s of science degree in nursing (BSN). A BSN provides a more comprehensive education than an ADN, with the BSN requiring students to compel at least 120 credits while AND students must complete at least 60 credits.

The most significant difference between the two is the salary. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, holders of bachelor’s degrees earn a weekly average of over $1,330, while holders of associate’s degrees earn a weekly average of approximately $960.

The higher salary also comes with greater job opportunities as nearly 49% of employers require that nurses have a BSN.

Is 63 too old to become a nurse?

No, 63 is not too old to become a nurse. The only age requirement that nursing programs have is that you be at least 18 years of age or older. Plus, the growth of online nursing degrees has made it easier to earn a nursing degree at any life stage because of the flexibility these programs offer.

How Much Does a Nursing Degree Cost?

One of the major decisions to make when choosing an online registered nursing program is how much it costs to complete. The exact cost depends on a variety of factors, such as residency status, program type, and the availability of financial aid. Each program will also have different student fees and housing costs. Before you apply to a program, make sure you understand the cost of tuition and the amount of fees that the program will charge.

To help you with your research, we’ve chosen seven sample schools to compare in the table below. We have cut out the cost for room and board to give you the most direct comparison. This will give you an idea of the financial commitment you will have to make for your RN education.

School Name	Program Type	Tuition & Fees
Purdue University Global	ASN	$18,900
Santa Fe College	ASN	$27,568
Aultman College	ASN	$19,130
University of North Alabama	BSN	$63,920
Indiana University	BSN	$25,935
Liberty University	MSN	$20,340
Georgia College and State University	MSN	$15,280

Nursing Certification Requirements

Accreditation confirms a nursing program meets basic education standards, and it’s a sign that the program readies its students to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam. Passing this exam is required to work as a registered nurse in all 50 states.

The NCLEX-RN exam is managed by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) and administered by Pearson VUE. It uses computerized adaptive testing, which means the test taker completes the exam on a computer, with the computer deciding which questions to provide the test taker based on how they answered the prior question. This means the exam may be different for every person, including the number of questions they must answer. Most test questions are in multiple choice format.

Because there’s so much weight on passing the exam, NCLEX-RN pass rates should be a key component in your nursing program search. Higher pass rates mean that a program’s curriculum is complete and its educators are well-versed in the nursing profession and education standards.

To learn how to pass the NCLEX on your first try, check out our guide on acing the exam.

Salary & Career Outlook for Registered Nurses

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Area ↕	10th Percentile ↕	Median ↕	90th Percentile ↕
U.S.	$66,030	$93,600	$135,320
Alabama	$53,360	$71,040	$98,840
Alaska	$82,400	$110,690	$137,400
Arizona	$69,930	$96,890	$123,480
Arkansas	$57,380	$77,130	$99,960
California	$100,120	$140,330	$208,880
Connecticut	$78,660	$101,590	$132,840
Delaware	$72,850	$92,610	$127,340
District of Columbia	$81,880	$104,550	$135,620
Florida	$66,670	$82,850	$110,530
Georgia	$66,110	$86,560	$124,810
Hawaii	$82,380	$136,320	$146,480
Idaho	$65,690	$86,100	$118,460
Illinois	$64,930	$86,410	$112,320
Indiana	$63,720	$80,740	$103,820
Iowa	$62,210	$76,960	$98,280
Kansas	$60,630	$78,060	$97,870
Kentucky	$63,180	$79,910	$104,430
Louisiana	$62,830	$78,880	$111,810
Maine	$66,330	$82,860	$104,870
Maryland	$75,470	$96,830	$121,150
Massachusetts	$76,950	$101,970	$173,590
Michigan	$70,150	$85,670	$106,770
Minnesota	$75,830	$100,870	$128,200
Mississippi	$58,130	$74,470	$104,040
Missouri	$58,510	$79,770	$103,140
Montana	$67,720	$81,560	$109,450
Nebraska	$63,290	$81,020	$101,500
Nevada	$77,960	$101,990	$132,990
New Hampshire	$69,250	$96,830	$120,120
New Jersey	$81,670	$102,730	$130,540
New Mexico	$70,630	$88,260	$121,200
New York	$77,930	$105,600	$153,420
North Carolina	$64,180	$81,860	$107,110
North Dakota	$65,770	$78,260	$99,540
Ohio	$66,060	$81,250	$103,650
Oklahoma	$64,110	$81,160	$105,320
Oregon	$95,040	$123,990	$143,410
Pennsylvania	$67,410	$87,610	$116,590
Rhode Island	$72,090	$99,960	$128,520
South Carolina	$64,200	$79,900	$102,040
South Dakota	$51,980	$69,510	$92,570
Tennessee	$59,540	$79,030	$102,040
Texas	$64,660	$90,010	$122,060
Utah	$67,980	$82,270	$106,960
Vermont	$70,840	$85,150	$117,310
Virginia	$64,370	$88,820	$124,040
Washington	$86,490	$112,180	$149,370
West Virginia	$53,060	$79,990	$106,830
Wisconsin	$74,970	$86,070	$109,270
Wyoming	$64,660	$81,790	$108,350

Source: Registered Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2024, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.

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Area ↕	Curr. Jobs ↕	Proj. Jobs ↕	New Jobs ↕	Growth % ↕	Avg. Ann. Openings ↕
United States	3,172,500	3,349,900	177,400	5.60%	193,100
Alabama	51,980	54,290	2,310	4.40%	3,090
Alaska	6,130	6,800	670	10.90%	420
Arizona	59,110	72,050	12,940	21.90%	4,820
Arkansas	28,750	30,920	2,170	7.50%	1,820
California	333,700	376,900	43,200	12.90%	23,420
Colorado	53,720	63,290	9,570	17.80%	4,100
Connecticut	35,420	38,310	2,890	8.20%	2,270
Delaware	11,720	13,570	1,850	15.80%	870
District of Columbia	11,110	11,750	640	5.80%	680
Florida	202,780	228,070	25,290	12.50%	14,110
Georgia	81,800	94,310	12,510	15.30%	5,990
Idaho	15,480	18,580	3,100	20.00%	1,230
Illinois	138,050	142,310	4,260	3.10%	7,960
Indiana	67,390	71,020	3,630	5.40%	4,090
Iowa	35,700	39,270	3,570	10.00%	2,370
Kansas	32,310	33,910	1,600	5.00%	1,940
Kentucky	47,300	50,400	3,100	6.60%	2,940
Louisiana	43,740	47,040	3,300	7.50%	2,770
Maine	14,840	15,040	200	1.30%	820
Maryland	48,810	52,370	3,560	7.30%	3,080
Massachusetts	30,060	32,600	2,540	8.40%	1,940
Michigan	104,150	106,910	2,760	2.70%	5,950
Minnesota	68,040	71,630	3,590	5.30%	4,120
Mississippi	29,980	31,910	1,930	6.40%	1,860
Missouri	76,960	84,580	7,620	9.90%	5,110
Montana	10,360	11,890	1,530	14.80%	750
Nebraska	22,900	24,670	1,770	7.70%	1,460
Nevada	24,290	28,810	4,520	18.60%	1,880
New Hampshire	13,690	14,600	910	6.60%	850
New Jersey	81,520	86,640	5,120	6.30%	5,030
New Mexico	19,020	21,940	2,920	15.40%	1,390
New York	204,040	256,080	52,040	25.50%	5,200
North Carolina	106,190	123,650	17,460	16.40%	7,930
North Dakota	11,500	12,700	1,200	10.40%	770
Ohio	131,390	135,860	4,470	3.40%	7,630
Oklahoma	37,490	39,290	1,800	4.80%	2,240
Oregon	42,720	47,680	4,960	11.60%	2,930
Pennsylvania	148,790	155,810	7,020	4.70%	8,890
Rhode Island	11,920	12,700	780	6.50%	740
South Carolina	45,140	49,610	4,470	9.90%	2,990
South Dakota	14,590	16,510	1,920	13.20%	1,030
Tennessee	60,020	67,720	7,700	12.80%	4,200
Texas	233,850	267,980	34,130	14.60%	16,900
Utah	25,300	31,710	6,410	25.30%	2,170
Vermont	7,030	7,650	620	8.80%	460
Virgin Islands	600	490	-110	-18.30%	20
Virginia	70,190	73,240	3,050	4.30%	4,160
Washington	61,030	69,180	8,150	13.40%	5,150
West Virginia	22,830	23,780	950	4.20%	1,350
Wisconsin	62,260	65,570	3,310	5.30%	3,770
Wyoming	5,130	5,740	610	11.90%	350

Source: Projections Central

Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.

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Today’s Best Online Nursing Programs for RNs

The increasing popularity of online RN programs can make choosing one a tough task. How do you know which one is right for you? Which school provides quality and flexibility for a reasonable price?

At EduMed, our data scientists evaluate data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), the U.S. Department of Education, the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, and universities themselves to rank post-secondary programs of all levels and subjects. Our rankings are here to make your hunt for the right RN program a little easier. See if one of these schools could be right for you.

University at Buffalo

Buffalo, NY

44% Online Enrollment

$ Tuition

68% Students w/ Aid

The University at Buffalo’s RN to BS Nursing program offers a structured curriculum of 30 credits over 1-2 years, focusing on clinical reasoning, family nursing, informatics, research, health outcomes, leadership, and population health. Courses span summer, fall, and spring semesters, enabling flexible progression toward advancing nursing knowledge and leadership skills for baccalaureate-prepared practice.

Program Details

MSCHE Accreditation
$3,886 Avg. Aid Amount
71% Graduation Rate
Public School Type
11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Why We Selected University at Buffalo

The University at Buffalo School of Nursing boasts a consistently high first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate that exceeds state and national averages, ensuring strong licensure success for graduates.
Students benefit from innovative clinical education, including over 600 hours in patient care and access to Dedicated Education Units (DEUs) that simulate real nursing practice environments.
The program is part of a major research university with national accreditation, offering personalized attention within a smaller school setting and access to advanced nursing research and resources.

Program Details

MSCHE Accreditation
$3,886 Avg. Aid Amount
71% Graduation Rate
Public School Type
11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Stony Brook University

Stony Brook, NY

55% Online Enrollment

$ Tuition

79% Students w/ Aid

Stony Brook University’s Nursing program prepares students for nursing practice through rigorous coursework including pharmacology, pathology, and clinical nursing, and offers diverse clinical placements at settings like Stony Brook University Hospital. It emphasizes care for individuals, families, and communities while integrating research opportunities to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Applicants must meet specific science prerequisites and GPA requirements, and the program supports academic and cultural diversity.

Program Details

MSCHE Accreditation
$4,118 Avg. Aid Amount
78% Graduation Rate
Public School Type
19/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Why We Selected Stony Brook University

Stony Brook School of Nursing has been recognized as a Top-10 Online Master's in Nursing Program for six consecutive years, ensuring high-quality virtual education with a 96.15% NLCLEX pass rate in 2024.
The program offers flexible full-time and part-time options, including accelerated and advanced certificate pathways, allowing students to tailor their education to career goals and schedules.
Stony Brook’s affiliation with a premier academic medical center provides students with outstanding clinical placement opportunities and exposure to cutting-edge healthcare environments.

Program Details

MSCHE Accreditation
$4,118 Avg. Aid Amount
78% Graduation Rate
Public School Type
19/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Kent State University at Kent

Kent, OH

54% Online Enrollment

$$ Tuition

94% Students w/ Aid

Kent State University’s RN to BSN program requires completion of 120 credit hours including transfer coursework, experiential learning, and diversity courses. Key nursing classes cover evidence-based practice, health care policy, and a capstone clinical. Students fulfill Kent Core requirements and may enhance their knowledge with electives, focusing on professional nursing practice and leadership. Advising support is recommended for smooth progression through degree requirements.

Program Details

HLC Accreditation
$7,394 Avg. Aid Amount
66% Graduation Rate
Public School Type
21/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Why We Selected Kent State University at Kent

Kent State University’s Nursing program offers 100% online nursing degrees at bachelor’s, master’s, certificate, and doctoral levels, with personalized advising ensuring tailored academic plans.
The program features small class sizes and individualized attention from experienced nurse educators, creating an engaging and supportive learning environment designed specifically for online students.
Students have the flexibility to start coursework in any semester (fall, spring, or summer) with rolling admissions and seven-week courses, allowing accelerated progress suited to personal schedules.

Program Details

HLC Accreditation
$7,394 Avg. Aid Amount
66% Graduation Rate
Public School Type
21/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Southern Adventist University

Collegedale, TN

34% Online Enrollment

$$$ Tuition

100% Students w/ Aid

Southern Adventist University’s nursing program prepares students for licensure and advanced practice with a Christ-centered curriculum emphasizing clinical experiences, simulation labs, and rigorous academic support. Accredited by ACEN, it offers pathways from associate to doctoral levels, integrating whole-person care, quality and safety, and informatics to develop competent, compassionate nurses ready for diverse healthcare settings. The program includes hands-on practice and exam preparation.

Program Details

SACSCOC Accreditation
$9,922 Avg. Aid Amount
60% Graduation Rate
Private School Type
16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Why We Selected Southern Adventist University

Southern University’s Nursing program offers dedicated faculty mentorship that supports students, especially first-generation college attendees, through rigorous academic and personal challenges.
The program boasts strong clinical affiliations with multiple regional health systems, ensuring high-quality hands-on training and community healthcare engagement.
Southern University is nationally recognized for producing a significant number of African American BSN graduates and maintains licensure exam pass rates above the national average.

Program Details

SACSCOC Accreditation
$9,922 Avg. Aid Amount
60% Graduation Rate
Private School Type
16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Molloy College

Rockville Centre, NY

56% Online Enrollment

$$$$ Tuition

94% Students w/ Aid

Molloy College’s Nursing program offers an accelerated pathway for individuals with a prior bachelor’s degree, allowing completion in 16, 19, or 21 months. The curriculum integrates nursing science with clinical experience in critical care, pediatrics, maternity, and community health. Graduates are prepared for NCLEX-RN licensure and leadership roles in diverse healthcare settings, supported by advanced simulation labs and expert faculty mentorship.

Program Details

MSCHE Accreditation
$18,024 Avg. Aid Amount
70% Graduation Rate
Private School Type
10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Why We Selected Molloy College

Molloy University’s Nursing program offers an accelerated dual degree pathway allowing students with a prior bachelor’s degree to transfer up to 98 credits, significantly shortening time to RN licensure.
Students gain extensive clinical experience in diverse specialty areas including critical care, maternity, pediatrics, and community health, supported by access to the advanced Barbara H. Hagan Nursing Simulation Lab for hands-on training.
Graduate nursing students benefit from flexible part-time hybrid programs with expert faculty and clinical preceptors, including nine specialty tracks and opportunities to earn a dual MS Nursing Administration with Informatics and MBA in Healthcare Management.

Program Details

MSCHE Accreditation
$18,024 Avg. Aid Amount
70% Graduation Rate
Private School Type
10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Madonna University

Livonia, MI

57% Online Enrollment

$$$ Tuition

97% Students w/ Aid

Madonna University’s accelerated BSN program enables students with prior degrees to earn their BSN in 16 months via a hybrid format combining online coursework, labs, and clinical experiences. The curriculum covers health assessment, pharmacology, holistic nursing care, mental health, research, and population-focused care, preparing students to sit for the NCLEX-RN® exam and become confident, patient-centered nurses ready for diverse healthcare roles.

Program Details

HLC Accreditation
$16,629 Avg. Aid Amount
64% Graduation Rate
Private School Type
10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Why We Selected Madonna University

Madonna’s Accelerated BSN program offers flexible online coursework combined with hands-on clinical rotations and realistic simulation labs, enabling students to balance education with personal and professional commitments.
The RN to BSN track features hybrid and online course options designed specifically for working registered nurses, facilitating degree completion without disrupting their careers.
The LPN to BSN bridge program allows licensed practical nurses to advance their education and career while maintaining employment, emphasizing relationship-centered care and integrating core values of integrity, compassion, and ethics.

Program Details

HLC Accreditation
$16,629 Avg. Aid Amount
64% Graduation Rate
Private School Type
10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Wayne State University

Detroit, MI

61% Online Enrollment

$$ Tuition

90% Students w/ Aid

Wayne State University’s nursing program offers a robust curriculum integrating foundational sciences, health assessment, pathophysiology, nursing research, informatics, leadership, and clinical practice across diverse populations. It emphasizes evidence-based care, transcultural health, and specialty preparation in areas like pediatrics and geriatrics. Clinical experiences are conducted throughout Southeast Michigan under expert faculty guidance, fostering comprehensive professional development. The 30-credit RN to BSN pathway builds on prior RN experience with clinical and didactic components.

Program Details

HLC Accreditation
$7,481 Avg. Aid Amount
55% Graduation Rate
Public School Type
13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Why We Selected Wayne State University

Wayne State University’s Nursing program offers a direct admit BSN option for first-year students in a small cohort, enhancing early focused education and personalized support.
The program emphasizes urban health challenges with extensive clinical opportunities in Detroit, providing students with hands-on experience addressing healthcare disparities in diverse communities.
Wayne State’s BSN Second Career program combines expert faculty-led on-campus teaching with community-focused research and Detroit-based clinical experiences, accommodating career changers effectively.

Program Details

HLC Accreditation
$7,481 Avg. Aid Amount
55% Graduation Rate
Public School Type
13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

University of Iowa

Iowa City, IA

59% Online Enrollment

$ Tuition

70% Students w/ Aid

The University of Iowa’s RN-BSN 3+1 program enables qualified nurses to earn a BSN in 3-5 semesters entirely online. It offers seamless credit transfer from partner institutions, accommodates working nurses, and emphasizes advanced skills and leadership for complex healthcare needs. The program is nationally ranked fourth and supports flexible completion while enhancing nursing practice quality and leadership abilities.

Program Details

HLC Accreditation
$8,745 Avg. Aid Amount
74% Graduation Rate
Public School Type
15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Why We Selected University of Iowa

The University of Iowa RN-BSN program offers a highly flexible fully online completion option that enables students to live and work anywhere while finishing their BSN in as few as three semesters through the RN-BSN 3+1 pathway.
It features partnerships with multiple community colleges guaranteeing seamless transfer and guaranteed admission for qualified nursing graduates, reducing barriers to earning a BSN.
Students gain practical clinical experiences close to their residence with community and public health practicum placements within 100 miles of Iowa addresses, plus a unique option for an immersion practicum in Eswatini, Africa.

Program Details

HLC Accreditation
$8,745 Avg. Aid Amount
74% Graduation Rate
Public School Type
15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Union University

Jackson, TN

17% Online Enrollment

$$$ Tuition

100% Students w/ Aid

Union University’s Nursing Endorsement Programs offer specialized tracks in Nursing Education and Nursing Administration, consisting of nine credit hours of online coursework plus an optional practicum requiring in-person clinical hours. The programs equip nurses with advanced skills for roles in education, leadership, or administration, catering to those with a bachelor’s degree who seek career advancement without committing to an MSN or postgraduate certificate. Admissions occur twice yearly.

Program Details

SACSCOC Accreditation
$24,006 Avg. Aid Amount
68% Graduation Rate
Private School Type
8/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Why We Selected Union University

The University of Utah College of Nursing guarantees clinical placement sites for DNP students, ensuring seamless practical experience in Utah.
Students can complete the RN-to-BSN program fully online with flexible graduation options in 2, 3, or 4 semesters to fit individual schedules.
The College offers free digital badges through HRSA-funded modules that enhance nurse resumes by certifying expertise in culturally sensitive and equitable patient care.

Program Details

SACSCOC Accreditation
$24,006 Avg. Aid Amount
68% Graduation Rate
Private School Type
8/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

University of Arizona

Tucson, AZ

49% Online Enrollment

$$ Tuition

96% Students w/ Aid

The University of Arizona’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program requires 120 units, including 59 units of upper-division nursing coursework. It combines foundational coursework in English, math, biology, and nursing prerequisites with advanced nursing courses such as leadership, mental health, and population health. Graduates must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to apply for Registered Nurse licensure. Admission requires maintaining specific GPA standards and successful completion of prerequisite courses.

Program Details

WSCUC Accreditation
$15,095 Avg. Aid Amount
64% Graduation Rate
Public School Type
19/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Why We Selected University of Arizona

The University of Arizona College of Nursing offers an exclusive BSN Integrative Health pathway, emphasizing self-care and holistic nursing practices unique in Arizona.
Their nursing programs are nationally ranked among the top 20 by U.S. News & World Report, reflecting exceptional faculty expertise and academic excellence.
Multiple campuses in Tucson and Gilbert provide diverse clinical placement opportunities and specialized learning environments tailored to student needs.

Program Details

WSCUC Accreditation
$15,095 Avg. Aid Amount
64% Graduation Rate
Public School Type
19/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

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