Online Nursing Programs in Missouri: Finding the School for You
With nursing jobs in Missouri set to grow anywhere from 6% to 42%, nursing can give you stability and competitive pay while allowing you to make a difference in the lives of patients. Whether you’re just starting your journey into nursing or thinking about the next steps after working as an RN, this guide can help you find the Missouri nursing school that best meets your needs. Learn the various types of online nursing programs offered by top-ranked Missouri schools, how to earn a license in the state, and where to find academic support and professional resources along the way.
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Inside Online Nursing Programs in Missouri (by Level)
Choosing the right nursing school in Missouri is crucial for your long-term growth in the field. There are various educational paths available, including Associate Degrees in Nursing (ADN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), and advanced degrees like Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or doctorate in nursing, each offering unique opportunities. Many programs are available online or in hybrid formats, allowing students to complete coursework at their own pace while gaining hands-on clinical experience.
Missouri offers diverse nursing programs for those just entering the profession, as well as those looking to advance their careers. Pre-licensure programs prepare students for the NCLEX exam, while bridge programs are designed for established nurses seeking advanced roles.
You can find nursing schools in Missouri offering degrees at various academic levels, making it easy to find a program that meets you where you are professionally and academically. This section provides you with a good sense of the most common options currently available for those looking for quality nursing programs in Missouri.
Online Undergraduate Degree Programs
Missouri’s fully online and hybrid RN programs offer Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degrees. Designed for aspiring nurses and working professionals, these flexible programs suit students seeking career advancement while balancing personal commitments. They provide comprehensive clinical training and academic support statewide.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
An online Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program combines virtual coursework with in-person clinical training. Students learn essential skills like patient care, vital sign monitoring, and basic medical procedures. Flexible schedules suit busy individuals, preparing them for certification exams and hands-on healthcare roles in hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics.
Example: Missouri Health Care Association
- Cost: $700 – $1,300
- Length: 100 days
- Mode: Online
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
ADNs often serve as entry points for many students and are commonly offered by community colleges and vocational schools. With curriculums consisting of approximately 60 credits, ADN programs usually require two years of full-time study and allow graduates to seek licensure after meeting state requirements.
Example: St. Charles Community College
- Cost: $16,787.90
- Length: Two years
- Mode: In-person
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Traditional BSN programs provide the best pathway for first-time nursing students who know they want to earn bachelor’s degrees. These programs usually include 120 credits, which includes in-person clinical training components. Most traditional BSN programs take four years to complete. Graduates can seek licensure as RNs.
Example: University of Missouri – Mizzou Online
- Cost: $13,650 – $17,430 per year
- Length: Four years
- Mode: Online
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
Accelerated BSN programs consist of the same number of credits and set the same graduation requirements as traditional BSNs but allow students to graduate more quickly. The accelerated nature of these programs means you can earn your credentials in as few as three years. However, to qualify for an ABSN, you must
Example: Rockhurst University
- Cost: $46,980
- Length: 16 months
- Mode: Hybrid
Graduate and Post-Graduate Degree Programs
Graduate nursing programs offer Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degrees. Designed for registered nurses seeking advanced roles, they focus on leadership, specialized clinical practice, and research. Ideal for nurses pursuing careers as nurse practitioners, educators, administrators, or healthcare policy experts.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
The MSN is an advanced nursing education that takes one to three years, depending on your specialization. They prepare students for roles as nurse practitioners or in informatics and administration leadership. Those with bachelor’s degrees in other fields can take direct-entry MSN programs and finish in 18-32 months.
Example: University of Missouri – Mizzou Online
- Cost: $25,412 – $34,412 / year
- Length: 2.5 – 3.5 years
- Mode: Hybrid
DNP and PhD Doctoral Programs
The DNP takes about two years full time, includes a practicum, and prepares students for nursing leadership, clinical education, and individual practice. A Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Science is a scholarly research degree that takes up to 10 years and includes a doctoral dissertation.
Example: University of Missouri – Mizzou Online
- Cost: $9,000-$18,000 / year
- Length: 3-5 years
- Mode: Hybrid
Post-Master’s Certificate Programs
Designed for nurses with MSNs, post-graduate certificates take one or two years and concentrate in areas like psychiatric nursing, acute care, nurse practitioner, nursing education, informatics, pediatric or gerontology populations, and emergency nursing. Nursing management studies include leadership, finance, and human resources.
Example: University of Missouri-Kansas City
- Cost: $9,000-$18,000 / year
- Length: 1-2 years
- Mode: Hybrid
Bridge Degree Programs in Missouri
Bridge nursing programs, such as LPN to RN and LPN to BSN, help nurses advance their education efficiently. They combine prior experience with new coursework, leading to associate or bachelor’s degrees. Designed for working nurses seeking career growth, they offer flexible, accelerated paths to higher credentials and expanded healthcare roles.
LPN to RN and LPN to BSN
After working as an LPN for a time, some nurses decide they want to update their credentials and qualify for higher-paying jobs by completing LPN to RN or LPN to BSN programs. An LPN to RN program usually takes 12-18 months to finish and results in an associate degree. An LPN to BSN can take longer, typically 24-36 months, and graduates will earn a bachelor’s degree.
Example: Missouri State University
- Cost: $15,779
- Length: 1 year
- Mode: Hybrid
RN to BSN
Because more employers now expect RNs to hold bachelor’s degrees, RN to BSN programs are becoming popular. Because students in these programs already have extensive clinical training and experience as nurses, these programs are often available completely online. These programs usually consist of roughly 30 credits and take 1-2 years to complete. Schools commonly offer both part-time and full-time learning options.
Example: University of Central Missouri
- Cost: $285/credit
- Length: 1 year
- Mode: Online
RN to MSN
RNs with associate degrees may decide to bypass bachelor’s credentials altogether and move directly into master’s degrees. RN to MSN programs take approximately three years from start to finish and can commonly be done completely online, depending on the specialization.
Example: Missouri Baptist University
- Cost: $350/credit (Undergraduate and graduate while in the BSN program) // $745 (Graduate after beginning the MSN program)
- Length: Three years
- Mode: Online
BSN to DNP
A BSN to DNP program enables registered nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing to earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice. The transition from a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a crucial step for those seeking to influence healthcare at the most impactful level. Combining advanced clinical training, leadership, and healthcare policy, it prepares nurses for top-tier roles as nurse practitioners, clinical leaders, or educators, with both online and in-person components.
Example: Missouri State University
- Cost: $45,321 (in-state) // $59,024 (out-of-state)
- Length: 3-4 years
- Mode: Online
Direct-Entry MSN
A Direct-Entry MSN program is designed for individuals with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees seeking a Master of Science in Nursing. Direct-entry MSN programs for non-nursing majors are designed for career changers and other individuals who have a bachelor’s degree but no prior nursing experience. These programs provide a straight path to becoming a professional nurse while awarding an advanced degree at the same time. It offers accelerated nursing coursework and clinical training, preparing graduates for RN licensure and advanced nursing roles. It’s important to understand, however, that all direct-entry MSN programs, whether they feature online study or not, require on-campus attendance for certain classes and labs.
Example: Herzing University
- Cost: $825/semester
- Length: Two years
- Mode: Online
RN License Requirements in Missouri
In Missouri, registered nurses must graduate from an accredited nursing program and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. They must apply for licensure through the Missouri State Board of Nursing, which includes meeting background check requirements. To maintain their license, RNs in Missouri must fulfill continuing education requirements, ensuring they stay up to date on best practices in clinical care and patient safety. Keep reading for a more in-depth breakdown of the steps to licensure.
1 – Accredited Degree in Nursing
When searching for the best nursing school in Missouri, it’s essential to ensure your chosen program and institution are properly accredited. Accreditation plays a crucial role in your nursing education, as attending a school without the correct accreditation can impact your ability to transfer credits, pursue advanced degrees, and secure employment.
Regional accreditation is granted to qualifying colleges and universities by organizations recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). In Missouri, schools should have regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), which oversees institutions in the central United States.
In addition to regional accreditation, nursing programs should also hold program-specific accreditation to ensure they meet industry standards. Aspiring nurses in Missouri should enroll in a program accredited by either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). These accreditations are necessary for pursuing a master’s degree in nursing, transferring credits to another institution, and meeting the qualifications for most nursing positions in the state.
2 – Passing Grade on the NCLEX-RN
Complete an accredited Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program in Missouri and take advantage of NCLEX mentoring or advising offered by your school. Use practice tests to reinforce key concepts and improve test readiness. During your final semester, apply for licensure through the Missouri State Board of Nursing, submit your official transcripts, and pay the required application fee.
Register with the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), pay the $200 exam fee, and review their free test strategies. Once approved, you will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) with instructions to schedule your NCLEX-RN exam within 90 days.
3 – Apply for Licensure in Missouri
To apply for RN licensure in Missouri, you must complete a nursing diploma program sponsored by a healthcare institution or approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing. Additionally, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam and complete a criminal background check, including fingerprint submission. Missouri is part of the Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing nurses to hold a multi-state license.
Unlike many states, Missouri does not charge an application fee for initial RN licensure by exam, though you must pay a $41.75 fee for your criminal background check. All Missouri RN licenses expire on April 30 of each odd-numbered year. While Missouri does not require continuing education for RN license renewal, you must submit a renewal application and pay the $85 renewal fee to maintain your license.
4 – Renew Your Licensure on Schedule
RN licenses in Missouri must be renewed every two years. Missouri registered nurses can apply for license renewal in odd-numbered years, with all licenses expiring on April 30. Unlike some states, Missouri does not require continuing education credits for RN license renewal. However, nurses must submit their renewal application and pay the $85 renewal fee to maintain an active license.
5 – Pursue Specialty Certifications (Optional)
In Missouri, after becoming a licensed RN, you can advance your career by obtaining specialty certifications in fields such as pediatrics, critical care, or oncology. These certifications typically require additional coursework, clinical experience, and passing an exam through national certifying bodies like the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Earning a specialty certification can enhance job opportunities, increase salary potential, and open doors for career growth. Many healthcare employers in Missouri offer support for certification programs, including tuition assistance or reimbursement.
Salary Trends and Job Forecast for Nurses in Missouri
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Missouri | $58,510 | $79,770 | $103,140 |
| Cape Girardeau, MO-IL | $60,440 | $79,490 | $100,840 |
| Columbia, MO | $59,600 | $81,370 | $102,610 |
| Jefferson City, MO | $56,070 | $75,930 | $92,920 |
| Joplin, MO-KS | $59,670 | $73,190 | $92,710 |
| Kansas City, MO-KS | $65,360 | $82,630 | $104,240 |
| St. Joseph, MO-KS | $60,360 | $74,750 | $92,680 |
| St. Louis, MO-IL | $61,990 | $82,560 | $105,630 |
| Springfield, MO | $56,140 | $66,530 | $95,490 |
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 |
| Missouri | 76,960 | 84,580 | 7,620 | 9.90% | 5,110 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Ranking Missouri’s Leading Online Nursing Programs
With the number of nursing programs in Missouri, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. While we can’t make the decision for you, we’ve researched and ranked schools based on data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). We specifically consider factors important to students, such as student-to-faculty ratio, tuition cost, accreditation, and more. For further details on our ranking process, check out the methodology pop-up below.
Maryville University of Saint Louis
Saint Louis, MOProgram Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $16,098 Avg. Aid Amount
- 73% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Maryville University of Saint Louis
- Maryville’s nursing program offers 100% online coursework with no campus visits required and no waiting list once accepted, enabling flexible and immediate enrollment.
- The faculty consists of active, board-certified nurse practitioners who bring real-world clinical expertise directly into the classroom, providing personalized student support and engagement.
- Maryville supports advanced career tailoring with multiple specialized concentrations (five options) and clinically local placements, allowing students to complete practical requirements in preferred settings.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $16,098 Avg. Aid Amount
- 73% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $8,735 Avg. Aid Amount
- 71% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Truman State University
- Truman State’s Nursing program offers an accelerated BSN option allowing students with prior degrees to complete their degree in just 15 months.
- The program incorporates Jean Watson’s Theory of Human Caring, emphasizing holistic and compassionate nursing practice throughout the curriculum.
- Students gain diverse clinical experiences through partnerships with local hospitals and schools, enhancing real-world readiness in various healthcare settings.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $8,735 Avg. Aid Amount
- 71% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $9,586 Avg. Aid Amount
- 72% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Missouri
- The University of Missouri Nursing program offers an accelerated BSN pathway for non-nursing post-baccalaureate students, enabling completion in just seventeen months with competitive admission.
- MU Health Care staff and nurses enrolled receive a 75% tuition reduction and waived supplemental fees for University of Missouri college courses, supporting continuing education and career growth.
- The program provides access to a state-of-the-art simulation lab with advanced mannequins and tailored training, allowing students to practice real patient care scenarios in a safe environment.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $9,586 Avg. Aid Amount
- 72% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $12,279 Avg. Aid Amount
- 53% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Lindenwood University
- Lindenwood University offers a personalized RN to BSN pathway for Dorsey College nursing graduates with special discounted tuition at 25% of the undergraduate rate, allowing completion in as little as 12 months through 100% online, 8-week courses.
- The Nursing program includes a Professional Portfolio Review process granting up to 3 elective credit hours for documented prior nursing knowledge, specialty certifications, and continuing education, accelerating degree progress for experienced nurses.
- Students gain extensive hands-on clinical experience after completing foundational pre-nursing coursework, equipping them with essential nursing skills focused on compassionate and professional patient care.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $12,279 Avg. Aid Amount
- 53% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
University of Missouri-St Louis
Saint Louis, MOProgram Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $10,776 Avg. Aid Amount
- 57% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Missouri-St Louis
- The UMSL Nursing program offers multiple donor-funded scholarships and automatic eligibility for various merit and need-based scholarships upon admission, making financial aid accessible to students.
- UMSL has strategic partnerships with employers like Edcor, providing up to 30% tuition discounts or full coverage of remaining tuition after employer tuition assistance, reducing out-of-pocket expenses significantly.
- Exclusive collaborations with organizations such as the Greater St. Louis Area Council Scouting and the Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri provide specialized tuition discounts and scholarships, enhancing affordability for specific community members and employees.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $10,776 Avg. Aid Amount
- 57% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
University of Missouri-Kansas City
Kansas City, MOProgram Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,360 Avg. Aid Amount
- 56% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Missouri-Kansas City
- The UMKC School of Nursing and Health Studies offers personalized attention from instructors committed to academic success and leadership preparation in nursing.
- The program features a Direct Admit option for high school students, providing an accelerated pathway into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing clinical program.
- UMKC leverages its Health Sciences campus location for interprofessional development, fostering collaboration among nursing and other health professions.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,360 Avg. Aid Amount
- 56% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
University of Central Missouri
Warrensburg, MOProgram Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,545 Avg. Aid Amount
- 52% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 19/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Central Missouri
- The University of Central Missouri’s Nursing program offers clinical experience in diverse settings, including rural, suburban, and urban hospitals, enhancing real-world readiness.
- UCM’s nursing faculty comprises expert practitioners such as family nurse practitioners and trauma nurses who provide personalized support and specialty training.
- The Master of Science in Nursing program features a 100% AANP and ANCC certification exam pass rate, reflecting high-quality advanced nursing education.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,545 Avg. Aid Amount
- 52% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 19/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Southeast Missouri State University
Cape Girardeau, MOProgram Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,367 Avg. Aid Amount
- 50% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 20/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Southeast Missouri State University
- SEMO's Nursing RN to BSN program offers fully online courses with clinical experiences completed locally, allowing students to work full-time while earning their degrees flexibly.
- The program is eligible for Missouri’s Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant, providing financial aid to adult learners pursuing credentials in high-demand areas like nursing.
- Experienced nursing faculty with master's or doctoral degrees deliver the program, ensuring quality instruction and fostering career readiness in diverse healthcare settings.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,367 Avg. Aid Amount
- 50% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 20/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Missouri State University-Springfield
Springfield, MOProgram Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,010 Avg. Aid Amount
- 59% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 21/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Missouri State University-Springfield
- The Nursing Completion program offers affordable tuition at about $3,500 per semester with no additional out-of-state fees, plus scholarships and financial aid options.
- Students benefit from flexible scheduling with fully online, 8-week courses and five start times, enabling degree completion in as little as one year full-time or through individualized part-time plans.
- The program supports smooth transfer pathways with flexible admission requirements, including guidance from advisors and transfer scholarships for those currently completing an ASN/ADN program.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,010 Avg. Aid Amount
- 59% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 21/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Northwest Missouri State University
Maryville, MOProgram Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,194 Avg. Aid Amount
- 51% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 19/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Northwest Missouri State University
- Northwest Missouri State University’s Nursing program offers a pay-by-the-course tuition model that is equally affordable for in-state and out-of-state students enrolled online, reducing financial barriers for RN to BSN completion.
- The program features dedicated, experienced faculty who provide supportive, evidence-based instruction designed to immediately elevate nursing practice through practical leadership and healthcare policy skills.
- Students in the MSN Nurse Educator track build an employer-ready portfolio through an experiential capstone project, with regular faculty mentorship ensuring real-world application and personalized guidance.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,194 Avg. Aid Amount
- 51% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 19/1 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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