Online Nursing Schools in CT: Guide to Finding Top Programs
This EduMed student guide showcases the top accredited online nursing schools and programs in Connecticut that can help you achieve your professional nursing goals. Whether you’re just beginning your RN journey or looking to move into advanced practitioner, educator, or research roles, learn about the diverse types of nursing programs in Connecticut, details about the RN licensing process, and income prospects.
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Looking at Connecticut’s Different Types of Online Nursing Programs
Nursing programs across Connecticut range from having no online component to fully online didactic coursework. Most also have clinical components for online students, which are always in-person. The field has endless possibilities from entry-level nursing as a nurse aide (CNA) or practical nurse (LPN), to associate (ADN) and bachelor’s (BSN) degrees that prepare you for registered nursing (RN) licensing, to advanced nursing degrees like a master’s (MSN) or doctorate (DNP or PhD). There are even programs that bridge between levels as well as accelerated programs for bachelor’s holders in non-nursing fields (ABSNs). Advanced specialty certificates are also available. Discovering your nursing niche begins with understanding the degree types available to you, which are detailed below along with an example of each.
Online Undergraduate Degree Programs in Connecticut
Undergraduate nursing programs include CNA and LPN programs that provide a quick path into the nursing profession. ADNs, BSNs, and ABSNs are for those who want to become RNs. CNA, ADN, and ABSN programs often offer online components, while LPN and traditional BSN programs are still mainly in-person programs.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
CNAs play an important role in healthcare by supporting RNs and LPNs. They dress, bathe, and transport patients, often serving as caring connections for both patients and their families. The path to becoming a CNA gives you the skills and state certification needed through virtual or in-person classroom learning and in-person clinicals.
Example: Northeast Medical Institute – Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)
- Cost: $1,200 plus fees
- Length: 104 hours
- Mode: Hybrid self-paced online
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
In Connecticut, LPN programs are fully in-person since clinicals are a large part. They must be state-approved and prepare students for the NCLEX-PN exam, so they can work as LPNs in the state. LPN programs take almost two years to complete, and applicants can enroll in them right out of high school. It’s important to note, however, that no Connecticut schools currently offer an online or hybrid LPN program.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
The ADN (ASN, AASN) is for students with little or no college experience and offers a quick and affordable path to the NCLEX-RN and employment as an RN. Mostly through community colleges, ADN programs are either hybrid or fully in-person and take about two years of full-time study.
Example: CT State Community College – Associate Degree in Nursing
- Cost: $192 per credit
- Length: 2 years
- Mode: In-person, hybrid
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
A traditional BSN program is a four-year, full-time program combining general education and lower-division math and science courses with upper-division nursing coursework and in-person clinicals. The BSN degree is for students with little or no previous college or nursing experience, is exclusively online in Connecticut, and qualifies graduates to take the NCLEX-RN. Unfortunately, however, no Connecticut schools currently offer an online or hybrid traditional BSN program.
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
Accelerated (Second Degree) BSN programs allow students with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees to apply previously earned general education and other lower-division credits to their BSN programs. ABSN programs can take as little as 18 months, lead to eligibility to take the NCLEX-RN, and often include online, hybrid, and in-person coursework.
Example: Central Connecticut State University – Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Cost: $6,525 per term
- Length: 15 months
- Mode: In-person, hybrid, and online
Graduate and Post-Graduate Programs: Advanced Nursing Degrees
Graduate and post-graduate nursing degree programs help nurses advance into specialized areas of healthcare. Degree options include MSNs, DNPs, and PhDs, and post-graduate options include Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Nurse Educator programs. Programs are offered in fully online, in-person, or hybrid formats.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
MSN programs are for nurses who want to advance into high-level, specialized positions. MSN programs in Connecticut typically require both a current RN license and a BSN for admission and are often online. They train nurses for positions like family nurse practitioner, pediatric nurse practitioner, critical care nurse specialist, nurse anesthetist, and nurse midwife.
Example: Sacred Heart University – Clinical Nurse Leader Online Program
- Cost: $695 per credit
- Length: 2 years
- Mode: Online
DNP and PhD Doctoral Programs
Nursing doctoral degrees are for nurses interested in pursuing the highest leadership roles in the nursing profession. Those seeking top-tier positions in advanced nursing practice and healthcare administration opt for a DNP degree while those interested in careers in advanced research and post-secondary education in nursing opt for a PhD in Nursing.
Example: Sacred Heart University – Post-Master’s Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
- Cost: $1,015 per credit
- Length: 3 to 4 years
- Mode: Hybrid
Post-Master’s Certificate Programs
Post-graduate certificates in nursing offer master’s and doctoral degree holders a convenient way to enhance their careers by adding knowledge and skills in a specialized area of nursing. Common specializations include nursing leadership, nursing education, and family nurse practitioner. Nursing post-graduate certificate programs are often available 100% online.
Example: University of Saint Joseph – Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner Certificate
- Cost: $1,079 per credit
- Length: Varies
- Mode: Hybrid
Your Options for Bridge Degree Programs
Nursing bridge degree programs are for working nurses, and most have online options with in-person clinical requirements. Bridge programs help LPNs earn their RN licenses and/or bachelor’s and RNs earn their bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorates. There are even programs for those in other fields who want to switch to nursing.
LPN to RN and LPN to BSN
The CT Articulation Model for Nurse Educational Mobility Process allows LPNs in Connecticut to earn an ADN and then earn their RN licenses through an LPN to RN bridge program. LPN to BSN programs take this a step further by adding a bachelor’s degree. Both bridge programs have programs that are only in-person, while some have online and hybrid options.
Example: Albertus Magnus College – LPN to BSN Program
- Cost: $40,308 annually
- Length: 36 months
- Mode: Online, hybrid, and in-person
RN to BSN
RN to BSN degree programs are for current registered nurses with ADNs seeking to expand their career opportunities by gaining additional knowledge and skills. Some bridge programs are online and take a year of full-time study and two years of part-time study to complete. There are, of course, in-person clinical requirements.
Example: Goodwin University – RN-to-BSN Completion Program
- Cost: $5,242 per semester
- Length: 12 months
- Mode: Online or in person
RN to MSN
RN to MSN programs are for current RNs without BSNs interested in the quickest path to an MSN. These programs typically allow for specialization, and many are online. Admission requirements sometimes include non-nursing bachelor’s, and some also award BSN degrees. Cost and time depend significantly on undergraduate transfer credits.
Example: Sacred Heart University – RN to Bachelor to Master of Science in Nursing Online
- Cost: $28,380 to $65,565 total
- Length: 3.5 years
- Mode: Online
BSN to DNP
BSN to DNP bridge programs allow RNs with bachelor’s degrees to move into a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) to gain advanced clinical expertise and leadership skills. These programs are often fully online, though not always. DNP programs usually focus on a nursing specialty, so choosing the right program is crucial.
Example: University of Connecticut – Bachelor’s to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Online Program
- Cost: $1,200 per credit
- Length: 3 to 4 years
- Mode: Online
Direct-Entry MSN
For those with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees, direct-entry MSNs usually require on-campus attendance with few offering online study. Students typically need substantial clinical hours at health care facilities along with classroom instruction. These programs provide a direct path to becoming a professional nurse while at the same time earning an advanced degree, but no Connecticut schools currently offer an online or hybrid direct-entry MSN program.
Registered Nurses in CT: Licensing Information & Requirements
You need a registered nursing (RN) license issued by the Connecticut State Department of Public Health (DPH) to work as an RN in Connecticut. Nurses with current RN licenses from other states can use the Licensure by Endorsement process. You can become a registered nurse in CT using the Licensure by Examination method outlined below.
1 – Earn an Accredited Nursing Degree
To obtain your Connecticut RN license, you must take and pass the NCLEX-RN. Qualify to take the exam by first completing a nationally accredited and state-approved pre-licensure nursing degree or diploma program. For most Connecticut students, this is either an ADN or BSN degree. Since passing the NCLEX-RN is required for becoming an RN in CT, make sure the program you choose provides ample preparation and has a high NCLEX pass rate.
2 – Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
Register for the NCLEX-RN with Pearson VUE and pay a registration fee. See the information below on applying for state licensure since these steps overlap. You have one year to schedule your exam by signing into your Pearson VUE account. Your Authorization to Test (ATT) expires approximately 90 days after it’s issued, so be sure to schedule your exam ASAP. Prepare for the exam using various resources, such as our beginner’s guide to the NCLEX. You’ll sit for the exam at one of Pearson VUE’s test locations.
3 – Apply for State Licensure
Application for RN licensure is made with the Connecticut DPH via the State of Connecticut online portal. It’s important to remember that licensure requirements for RNs are different for each state. Complete the application and submit all required supporting documents, including an official transcript from your Connecticut ADN or BSN degree program. Once your application is approved, the DPH informs Pearson VUE who then emails you an ATT in two to three weeks. Exam results become official when received by the DPH.
4 – Maintain and Renew Licensure
Pearson VUE sends test results to the DPH within hours of completion. You’ll receive your results and license notification by mail from the DPH in four to six weeks if you pass. All Connecticut RN licenses must be renewed annually. The DPH mails renewal information approximately 60 days before license expiration. License renewal happens online through the State of Connecticut’s eLicense website and requires a renewal fee of $110. There are no continuing education requirements for RNs in Connecticut.
5 – Pursue Specialty Certifications (Optional)
Obtaining optional specialty certification in Connecticut typically happens by completing a graduate degree in your desired specialty. This usually happens through a post-master’s program. Specialties come in a range of topics, including mental health nursing, gerontological nursing, pediatric nursing, and oncology nursing. Some Connecticut nursing schools also offer non-degree courses in topics like healthcare innovation, holistic nursing, and pain management to give you specialization without being formally admitted to the school.
Connecticut’s Registered Nurse Salary Trends
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Connecticut | $78,660 | $101,590 | $132,840 |
| Bridgeport-Stamford-Danbury, CT | $80,600 | $106,020 | $139,040 |
| Hartford-West Hartford-East Hartford, CT | $77,890 | $101,210 | $124,360 |
| New Haven, CT | $79,120 | $101,920 | $135,250 |
| Norwich-New London-Willimantic, CT | $74,340 | $100,840 | $121,080 |
| Waterbury-Shelton, CT | $79,400 | $100,310 | $130,620 |
Source: Registered Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2024, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| 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 |
| Connecticut | 35,420 | 38,310 | 2,890 | 8.20% | 2,270 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Ranking Top Online Nursing Programs in Connecticut
Schools ranked among the best online nursing programs in Connecticut feature accreditation, affordability, comprehensive curriculum, and access to academic counseling and career placement services. They also have significant online offerings, offer substantial financial aid options, and have a student-to-faculty ratio that optimizes learning. For additional details on how schools are chosen and ranked, see the About the Rankings popup below. Continue below that to see which schools set the standard for online nursing programs in CT.
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $14,790 Avg. Aid Amount
- 83% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Connecticut
- The UConn Nursing program offers a wide range of targeted scholarships with preferences based on financial need, academic level, and community service commitment, enhancing affordability for diverse students.
- Online nursing students pay a standardized comprehensive fee regardless of residency status, ensuring transparent and equal tuition for Connecticut, out-of-state, and international students.
- UConn provides extensive financial aid support including specialized scholarships like the Anabel Sharp Nursing Scholarship for graduate students committed to teaching careers, supporting specialized career tracks.
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $14,790 Avg. Aid Amount
- 83% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Southern Connecticut State University
New Haven, CTProgram Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $5,730 Avg. Aid Amount
- 52% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Southern Connecticut State University
- Southern Connecticut State University’s Nursing program offers an Accelerated BSN (ABSN) for students with a previous bachelor’s degree, enabling faster completion and entry into the nursing field.
- The program features active student involvement in prestigious organizations like Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society and the National Student Nurses Association, enhancing networking and leadership opportunities.
- SCSU alumni have strong employment prospects, with significant recruitment by major employers such as Yale-New Haven Health System, reflecting excellent clinical placement and job market connections.
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $5,730 Avg. Aid Amount
- 52% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Central Connecticut State University
New Britain, CTProgram Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $4,191 Avg. Aid Amount
- 54% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Central Connecticut State University
- Central Connecticut State University’s RN to BSN program can be completed in as little as one year, offering an accelerated pathway for working registered nurses depending on transfer credits.
- Students benefit from 100% online nursing classes taught by faculty who are active clinical practitioners, providing real-world expertise and flexible access to education.
- The program provides financial support options including scholarships, financial aid, free on-campus child care, and a free one-year subscription to Grammarly to enhance academic success.
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $4,191 Avg. Aid Amount
- 54% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $28,224 Avg. Aid Amount
- 80% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Quinnipiac University
- The program offers an accelerated, fully online pathway with flexible 2, 3, and 4-year completion options tailored for master's-prepared nurses.
- It includes 500 hours of practice and field experience aligned with the student's population health interests, ensuring high-quality clinical preparation.
- Affiliation agreements with clinical sites are managed by the School of Nursing to support seamless clinical placements and reduce delays in practicum experiences.
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $28,224 Avg. Aid Amount
- 80% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
University of Saint Joseph
West Hartford, CTProgram Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $27,326 Avg. Aid Amount
- 57% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 9/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Saint Joseph
- Saint Joseph's University Nursing program offers guaranteed clinical placements at top regional healthcare systems, ensuring diverse and high-quality hands-on experience for students.
- The program features a state-of-the-art Center for Excellence in Practice with immersive simulation experiences that prepare students to perform nursing duties confidently from day one.
- Flexible and accessible, Saint Joseph's provides a 100% online RN-to-BSN pathway designed for practicing nurses to advance their careers with individualized scheduling and professional growth opportunities.
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $27,326 Avg. Aid Amount
- 57% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 9/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $23,202 Avg. Aid Amount
- 46% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Bridgeport
- The University of Bridgeport School of Nursing offers multiple BSN tracks including an Accelerated BSN and RN to BSN Online Degree Completion, providing flexible and fast pathways tailored to diverse student needs.
- Students benefit from state-of-the-art simulation labs and comprehensive clinical rotations with established hospital partners like Yale New Haven Hospital and Bridgeport Hospital, ensuring extensive hands-on training in real healthcare settings.
- The program is supported by experienced faculty members with diverse nursing expertise and a culture promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, academic excellence, and leadership development in a culturally diverse learning environment.
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $23,202 Avg. Aid Amount
- 46% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Western Connecticut State University
Danbury, CTProgram Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $4,158 Avg. Aid Amount
- 53% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Western Connecticut State University
- Western Connecticut State University’s Nursing program features consistently high NCLEX pass rates between 91-100% on the first attempt, demonstrating strong preparation for licensure.
- The program offers small class sizes and accessible faculty, enhancing personalized learning and mentorship throughout students’ nursing education.
- WCSU maintains extensive clinical affiliations with health agencies in the Danbury, Waterbury, and New Haven areas, providing diverse, high-quality clinical placement opportunities for students.
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $4,158 Avg. Aid Amount
- 53% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $19,362 Avg. Aid Amount
- 73% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Sacred Heart University
- Sacred Heart’s Nursing program offers a unique international clinical experience through its SHU Dingle semester and short-term options, allowing students to complete coursework and clinicals in Ireland under expert preceptors.
- The university provides an accelerated Second Degree BSN program that enables students with a prior bachelor's degree to complete their nursing degree in just 15 months, focusing exclusively on nursing coursework for a fast track to licensure and career entry.
- Sacred Heart’s online RN to BSN program features flexible start dates, an accelerated option, and is designed for working nurses, combining a holistic curriculum with convenient online learning to support career advancement.
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $19,362 Avg. Aid Amount
- 73% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $25,486 Avg. Aid Amount
- 83% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Fairfield University
- The Egan School of Nursing offers an Accelerated Master’s Entry to Practice Nursing (MEPN) program for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders, allowing them to complete an MSN degree in an accelerated format.
- Strong partnerships with over 100 diverse healthcare agencies provide students with high-quality clinical experiences that enhance practical skills and job readiness.
- Faculty members are leading educators who combine academic excellence with active clinical practice, offering personalized advisement and career planning to support student success.
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $25,486 Avg. Aid Amount
- 83% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
University of Hartford
West Hartford, CTProgram Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $29,130 Avg. Aid Amount
- 62% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Hartford
- The University of Hartford’s nursing programs offer a fully online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) designed for working nurses to complete degree requirements while maintaining full-time employment, providing flexibility and career advancement.
- The nursing program emphasizes active collaboration and learning in a supportive environment where students’ life experiences are respected and foster development as reflective, lifelong learners and future nurse leaders.
- The program focuses on quality teaching, clinical expertise, and community service, preparing nurses to respond creatively and flexibly to professional and societal challenges, enriching the nursing profession through scholarly and practical engagement.
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $29,130 Avg. Aid Amount
- 62% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘25-’26 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves:
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic and career counseling on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted*.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area.
- Avg. Aid Amount – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Students w/ Aid – Percent of full-time, first-time students undergraduates awarded institutional aid.
- Online Enrollment – Percent of undergraduate students taking at least one distance education class.
- Graduation Rate – Percent of full-time, first-time receiving an award in 6 years.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
*Metrics #2-5 and #6-7 were equally weighted.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2025
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