Online Nursing Schools in KY: Reviewing Top Programs
Live in Kentucky and want to become a registered nurse (RN)? Online nursing programs in Kentucky allow you to fit a nursing education into your busy schedule. This guide explores the state’s top online and hybrid RN programs, addresses common questions, and provides details on licensing, career paths, and salary expectations.
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NursingHealth ScienceTypes of Online Nursing Programs in Kentucky
Kentucky’s hybrid nursing programs blend online coursework with hands-on clinical experience, creating a flexible option for aspiring and current nurses. These programs are available at multiple levels — from Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) to Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) — allowing students to choose degree that aligns with their career goals.
While online courses let students complete lectures and assignments at home, nursing is an inherently hands-on profession. Clinical rotations, labs, and simulations must be completed in person, giving students valuable real-world experience. In general, theoretical learning takes place online, while patient care and group training occur in clinical settings.
When selecting a hybrid nursing program, be sure to consider:
- Program length and cost
- Accreditation and clinical site locations
- Scheduling flexibility and online/in-person balance
- How well the format fits your learning style and availability
Explore the sections below to learn more about the different nursing programs available in Kentucky.
KY Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Traditional undergraduate nursing programs typically include the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Both are designed for students new to the field who want to become registered nurses (RNs). The ADN offers a quicker path to entering the workforce, while the BSN provides more in-depth training and broader career opportunities. Let’s see how these programs work in Kentucky.
Expert Insight
In addition to logistical factors, it’s equally important for students to consider their personal long-term goals, as different programs are tailored to different goals. It would be a real bummer to choose a program just for its convenience and later find out it doesn’t meet your needs or check the correct boxes.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Generally, CNA programs help prepare students for success in a range of healthcare settings. These programs are ideal for those who want to transition to the medical field quickly, or who want to test out nursing as a possible career. The Kentucky program below gets students ready to take the state certification exam to become certified nursing assistants.
Example: Ky Healthcare Training
- Cost: $675 total
- Length: 75 hours
- Mode: Hybrid
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Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
LPN programs prepare students to work under the supervision of RNs and doctors in performing direct patient care. These types of programs will require students to pass the NCLEX-PN in order to obtain licensure. On average, LPN courses take around 10-12 months.
Example: Jefferson Community and Technical College
- Cost: $189/credit hour
- Length: 12 months
- Mode: Hybrid
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
Usually around two years to complete, ADN programs offer a faster route to becoming an RN. These programs are for students who want a quicker and more convenient access point into the field. In these programs, students are prepared to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain licensure.
Example: Jefferson Community College
- Cost: $186/credit hour (resident), $250/credit hour (non-resident)
- Length: 4 semesters (full-time)
- Mode: Hybrid
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
BSN programs are one of the longer nursing degree options, usually taking students four years to complete. They provide core knowledge and skills that can help springboard students into optional graduate studies down the line. BSNs allow their graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.
Example: University of Louisville
- Cost: $724/credit hour (resident), $1,448/credit hour (non-resident)
- Length: 15 months
- Mode: Hybrid
Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
For those who hold a bachelor’s degree in an unrelated field but want to pivot to nursing, accelerated BSN (ABSN) programs can be a great option. These programs condense the required coursework into a shorter amount of time, taking around 15-24 months.
Example: University of Kentucky
- Cost: $714/credit hour (resident), $1,906/credit hour (non-resident)
- Length: 15 months
- Mode: Hybrid
Graduate-Level Nursing Programs in Kentucky
The graduate program in nursing provides registered nurses with a chance to develop their professional careers and specialize in diverse fields. It encompasses the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees. These are intended for nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) who desire to obtain leadership positions, practice at an advanced level, or utilize research programs.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
MSN programs build upon foundational knowledge acquired during a BSN, advancing an RN’s skills with courses such as healthcare policy, advanced nursing theory, and evidence-based practice. These programs offer advanced training via specialized tracks, such as managing patient cases or advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs).
Example: University of Louisville (MSN)
- Cost: $12,900 per year
- Length: 2 years for full-time students
- Mode: Hybrid
DNP and PhD Doctoral Programs
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is for nurses who want to have leadership positions, while the PhD in Nursing is for those who want to focus their work on research or academia. Nurses in either of these programs are prepared for advanced clinical practice, leadership, and health system improvement.
Example: Eastern Kentucky University
- Cost: $716 per credit hour
- Length: Full-time students can finish the program in three years.
- Mode: Hybrid
Post-Master’s Certificate Programs
Post-master’s certification programs allow current RNs who already hold MSNs to refine their work with a specialization. This path will combine streamlined coursework and clinical fieldwork to build upon their existing abilities and expertise.
Example: Western Kentucky University
- Cost: $12,140 full-time; $607 part-time per credit hour
- Duration: Full-time students can complete the program within two years.
- Modet: Hybrid (online studies with on-campus clinical components).
Nursing Bridge Programs in Kentucky
Bridge programs offer accelerated pathways for nurses to advance their education and careers. These programs cater to those who already hold a nursing degree and want to achieve a higher level of education, such as a Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). They often build upon previous learning and experience, allowing quicker completion than traditional programs.
LPN to RN and LPN to BSN
LPN to RN and LPN to BSN programs both allow existing licensed practical nurses to advance their skillset by becoming registered nurses. For LPN to BSN programs, the aim is to fulfill the missing requirements needed for a BSN. Students will be eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.
Example: ATA College – LPN to RN Bridge
- Cost: $300 per credit hour
- Length: 15-Month
- Mode: Hybrid
RN to BSN
RN to BSN programs are ideal for current RNs looking to take their careers to the next level, heighten their income potential, advance to roles with more responsibility, or pursue higher education. Classes will feature topics such as nursing theory, health assessment, and leadership and management.
Example: University of Louisville
- Cost: $375 per credit hour (with potential for significant reduction via portfolio)
- Length: 8-week terms
- Mode: Hybrid
RN to MSN
RN to MSN degree programs are best-suited for RNs who hold an ADN that want to elevate their career prospects without the hassle and extra time of obtaining a separate BSN. Depending on the program, students may earn a BSN along the way as they work towards the MSN.
Example: Midway University
- Cost: $485 per credit hour
- Length: 36 credit hours
- Mode: Hybrid
BSN to DNP
For RNs with BSNs that want to take on more responsibility with leadership positions and higher education, BSN to DNP programs may be the right fit. These programs focus on patient care, clinical decision-making, and healthcare leadership.
Example: Kentucky State University
- Cost: $350 per credit hour
- Length: 72 credit hours, typically taking 3 years
- Mode: 100% online
Direct-Entry MSN
If you’re new to nursing and have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, direct-entry MSN programs are strong options for those who want a career change at an accelerated pace. This type of program is also ideal for those who want to become a nurse practitioner, with curriculum structured to focus on foundational nursing, advanced practice training, and clinical rotations.
Example: Herzing University
- Cost: $825.00 (A fee will be charged each semester for students enrolled in more than two credits)
- Length: 20-24 months
- Mode: Hybrid
Licensing Information & Requirements for Kentucky RNs
To become a licensed nurse, you must graduate from an accredited nursing program and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Additionally, you’ll need to pass a jurisprudence exam, then undergo a criminal background check, and pay the required fees. Continuing education is required for license renewal. Take a look below at more detailed information on the steps you need to take.
1 – Earn an Accredited Nursing Degree
- Find your program: Choose an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at a Kentucky nursing school accredited by the ACEN or CCNE. Consider programs with high NCLEX pass rates, such as those at the University of Kentucky or Northern Kentucky University.
- Graduate: Complete all coursework and graduate from your chosen program.
- Background check: Undergo a criminal background check as required by the state.
- Jurisprudence exam: Pass the Kentucky nursing jurisprudence exam.
2 – Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
- Apply for the NCLEX: Apply to take the NCLEX-RN exam through the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).
- Take the NCLEX: Schedule and take the NCLEX-RN exam (be sure to prepare well using resources such as our beginner’s guide to the NCLEX to pass it on your first try).
- Retake if Needed: If you don’t pass the first time, review your Candidate Performance Report (CPR) and retake the exam after the required waiting period.
3 – Apply for Kentucky Licensure
- Apply Online: Go to the Kentucky.gov of Nursing website and complete the online application. This is generally the fastest and easiest option.
- Pay the Fee: You can pay the application fee online or with your mailed application. Paper applications may incur an extra processing fee.
- Wait for Review: Application processing can take 7-14 business days or up to three months if it requires further review.
- Complete Any Additional Steps: You may need to fulfill other requirements, such as passing an exam or submitting fingerprints. Keep in mind that RN licensure requirements vary by state.
4 – Maintain and Renew Licensure
- Complete CE Hours: Earn 14 hours of continuing education, including at least seven from a KBN-approved provider. Explore options like courses, research projects, precepting, or publishing.
- Fulfill One-Time Requirements: Ensure you’ve met the one-time requirements for topics like Alzheimer’s, domestic violence, and suicide prevention.
- Report CE Activities: Use CE Broker to track and report your completed continuing education.
- Submit Renewal: Apply for renewal through the Kentucky Online License System.
- Pay Renewal Fee: Submit the required renewal fee to finalize the process.
5 – Pursue Specialty Certifications (Optional)
- Choose a Specialty: Choose a nursing specialty that matches your interests and career goals, like acute care, women’s health, or education.
- Meet Eligibility Requirements: Check that you meet the education and work experience prerequisites for your certification.
- Prepare for the Exam: Study relevant materials and consider taking a prep course to increase your chances of success.
- Take the Certification Exam: Schedule the exam for your chosen specialty.
- Maintain Your Certification: Fulfill any continuing education or recertification requirements to keep your certification current.
Expert Insight
I highly recommend all nurses consider pursuing a specialty certification in their field. My orthopedic certification stays good for 6 years and not only increased my annual hospital pay, but it provided me with a wealth of knowledge that I use regularly to better care for my patients.
KY Salary and Career Details for Registered Nurses
| Area | 10th Percentile | Median | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $63,180 | $79,910 | $104,430 |
| Bowling Green, KY | $63,180 | $76,620 | $96,810 |
| Elizabethtown, KY | $63,790 | $79,140 | $100,460 |
| Lexington-Fayette, KY | $67,340 | $82,780 | $105,890 |
| Louisville/Jefferson County, KY-IN | $63,290 | $81,200 | $110,950 |
| Owensboro, KY | $64,150 | $79,510 | $100,450 |
| Paducah, KY-IL | $62,100 | $77,400 | $99,730 |
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 |
| Kentucky | 47,300 | 50,400 | 3,100 | 6.60% | 2,940 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
