Online Nursing Schools in NH: Finding Top Programs
New Hampshire has many options for those who want to pursue an online nursing education. To help you decide which route to the healthcare industry is right for you, EduMed has created a guide with key information about accredited nursing programs, degree options, and admissions criteria. Here, you’ll get a breakdown on tuition costs, financial aid, scholarship opportunities, and licensing requirements for New Hampshire registered nurses (RNs). Learn more about about your education, training, and future nursing career in the state by reading on below.
The following professionals lent their expertise to this article:
HealthcareNursingHealthcare Admin EditorialSenior CareDementia CareWhy Trust EduMed? We partner with 150+ nursing & allied health professionals to bring you the most in-depth data & insights on higher education & careers in healthcare. Meet our team and review our editorial values.
Inside Online Nursing Programs in New Hampshire
Online nursing programs in New Hampshire provide flexibility for students seeking various levels of nursing education, from licensed practical nursing to nurse practitioner. Most coursework for these programs is conducted online and covers subjects such as nursing theory, healthcare ethics, and patient care. However, with nature of nursing, in person clinical experience is a requirement for completing the program. Most schools have contracts with local healthcare facilities and hospitals so students will not have to search for clinical experience independently.
When choosing a program in New Hampshire, you should consider accreditation, which ensures that the program meets the state’s licensing requirements and adequately prepares you for the NCLEX exam. If you’re still unsure about the quality of a program you can check their NCLEX pass rates, which can be provided by reaching out to the program administrator directly. Below is a breakdown of all the options for nursing education in New Hampshire at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.
Online Undergraduate Degree Programs
Undergraduate nursing programs in New Hampshire typically offer an ADN and a BSN. These programs are designed for students seeking to enter the nursing profession, whether through an entry-level ADN or by advancing to a BSN for broader career opportunities in healthcare.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)/Licensed Nursing Assistant (LNA)
New Hampshire’s comprehensive training programs prepare students to become CNAs (also known as licensed nursing assistants in the state), equipping them with everything they’ll need for entry-level healthcare positions. Through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience, students gain essential skills for providing patient care. This type of program is highly respected for its quality and successful preparation for certification exams.
River Valley Community College (RVCC) – LNA Program
- Cost: $1,900
- Length: Nine weeks
- Mode: In-person
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
LPN programs in New Hampshire offer vital training for students who are interested in pursuing a nursing career. This comprehensive program consists of both classroom instruction and practical clinical experience. Upon completion, graduates are well-equipped to deliver essential patient care in diverse healthcare environments. They are also eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam in order to obtain their nursing license.
River Valley Community College (RVCC) – Licensed Practical Nursing Program
- Cost: The total cost for the LPN program at RVCC is approximately $10,000 to $15,000, depending on factors like residency status and additional fees. The tuition cost is typically around $200 per credit hour, and students may need to budget for certification and licensure exam fees (NCLEX-PN).
- Length: The LPN program at RVCC generally takes about 12 to 18 months to complete, depending on whether students are enrolled full-time or part-time. The program typically begins in the fall and includes both classroom instruction and clinical placements that help students gain practical experience.
- Mode: The LPN program at RVCC is delivered in a traditional, in-person format. Students attend classes on campus, with the majority of their clinical training taking place in local healthcare facilities. This hands-on clinical experience is vital for students to develop their nursing skills in real-world settings.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
Associate Degree in Nursing programs in New Hampshire equip students with the essential knowledge and clinical skills necessary to embark on a career as a registered nurse. This program typically takes around two years, encompassing a blend of classroom instruction and practical clinical training. Upon successful completion, graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam, paving the way for a fulfilling career in the field of nursing.
Lakes Region Community College (LRCC) – ADN Program
- Cost: The LPN program at RVCC entails an estimated cost ranging from $10,000 to $15,000, contingent upon factors such as residency status and additional expenses. Tuition typically amounts to around $200 per credit hour, and students should also consider budgeting for certification and licensure exam fees (NCLEX-PN).
- Length: The LPN program at RVCC typically spans 12 to 18 months, depending on whether students are enrolled full-time or part-time. The program typically commences in the fall and encompasses both classroom instruction and clinical placements to provide students with valuable practical experience.
- Mode: The LPN program at RVCC is conducted in a traditional, in-person format. Students attend classes on campus, with the majority of their clinical training occurring in local healthcare facilities. This hands-on clinical experience is essential for students to hone their nursing skills in authentic healthcare settings.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
The online Bachelor of Science in Nursing program in New Hampshire provides registered nurses with the flexibility to further their education and advance their careers. This type of program integrates online coursework in leadership, research, and patient care management with hands-on clinical practice. By completing this program, RNs will be equipped to take on leadership roles and pursue career advancement opportunities in a variety of healthcare settings.
Rivier University – ACEN-accredited B.S. in Nursing
- Cost: The cost of Rivier University’s online RN to BSN program is approximately $400 per credit hour. The total cost of the program varies depending on the number of transfer credits a student has and the total number of credits required to complete the degree. With a program consisting of 120 credits, students who bring in transfer credits from their prior RN education can potentially reduce the overall cost. It is important to note that additional fees may apply.
- Length: The online BSN program at Rivier University is designed to be completed in approximately 2 years for full-time students. Part-time students may take longer to finish the program, depending on their course load and individual schedule.
- Mode: Rivier University’s online RN to BSN program is primarily delivered in a hybrid format, providing students with the convenience of completing most coursework from home or any location. The program offers a blend of asynchronous online classes, which can be accessed at any time, and real-world clinical experiences that take place in the student’s local community. Clinical hours can be arranged at healthcare facilities in the student’s area. Additionally, students engage in virtual learning experiences, including discussions, assignments, and projects, to enhance their educational experience.
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs are tailored for individuals holding a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. This program is designed to be completed within 12-18 months, providing a rigorous curriculum that blends online learning with hands-on clinical experience to equip students for RN licensure.
Colby-Sawyer College – Accelerated BS in Nursing
- Cost: The tuition per credit for the ABSN program at Colby-Sawyer College is $870 for students taking fewer than full-time credits. The program also includes a $13,900 per semester tuition and a $550 comprehensive fee per semester. The total cost of the program varies depending on the number of transfer credits a student has, and the total credits needed to graduate, typically ranging from $40,000 to $50,000. Additional expenses may include textbooks, fees for clinical placements, uniforms, and required health screenings. Financial aid options, such as federal loans and scholarships, are available to eligible students to help manage costs.
- Length: The Accelerated BSN program is designed to be completed in 12 to 18 months of full-time study. This rigorous program is tailored for students who can commit significant time and effort to their studies. It condenses the nursing curriculum into a shorter timeframe compared to traditional BSN programs. Students with prior bachelor’s degrees can expedite their completion of the program by leveraging their existing academic background.
- Mode: The online Accelerated BSN program primarily utilizes an online learning platform, enabling students to complete most coursework remotely. However, the program incorporates in-person clinical placements, crucial for acquiring hands-on experience in real healthcare settings. Clinical hours can be fulfilled at approved healthcare facilities near the student’s location. The program employs a blend of online lectures, assignments, discussions, and simulations to facilitate the development of nursing knowledge and skills, preparing students for the NCLEX-RN exam and a successful career as a registered nurse.
Graduate and Post-Graduate Degree Programs
Online graduate and post-graduate degree programs in New Hampshire include Master’s and Doctoral degrees in fields such as Nursing, Healthcare Administration, Education, and Business. These programs are ideal for working professionals or individuals seeking to advance their careers, offering flexible learning formats while maintaining high academic standards.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Master of Science in Nursing program in New Hampshire offers advanced education for RNs seeking leadership, clinical expertise, or specialized roles in healthcare. These programs typically include courses in healthcare policy, management, and advanced practice nursing, preparing graduates for leadership positions, nurse practitioner roles, or nurse education careers.
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) – Online MSN Program
- Cost: The Master of Science in Nursing program at Southern New Hampshire University is priced at approximately $627 per credit hour. With a total of 36 credits required to complete the program, the estimated total tuition cost is around $22,600. It is important to note that this amount does not include additional expenses for textbooks, materials, and graduation fees. Fortunately, SNHU offers various financial aid options to assist eligible students in covering these costs.
- Length: The online MSN program at SNHU typically takes 18 to 24 months to finish, depending on whether students choose to study full-time or part-time. The program is structured to provide flexibility, allowing students to effectively manage their work and other commitments. Courses are offered in eight-week terms, enabling students to progress efficiently through their studies.
- Mode: The MSN program at SNHU is delivered entirely online, offering students the convenience of completing coursework from any location. The program utilizes a blend of asynchronous courses (which students can complete at their own pace) and interactive learning activities. While the program is primarily online, students pursuing certain tracks, such as nurse practitioner or clinical nurse leader, may be required to fulfill clinical hours at approved healthcare facilities in their local area. Additionally, the online platform provides valuable resources such as faculty support, peer interaction, and career services to enhance the overall learning experience.
DNP and PhD Doctoral Programs
DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) programs are practice-based, preparing nurses for advanced clinical practice and leadership roles with the intention of improving patient care. On the other hand, a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) in Nursing is research-based, allowing nurses to conduct independent studies and generate scholarly publications.
Rivier University – Doctoral Program
- Cost: The PhD in Nursing program at Rivier University is priced at approximately $1,150 per credit hour. The total cost of the program varies depending on the number of transfer credits and the total credit hours required for the PhD degree, typically ranging from 60 to 72 credits. Overall, students can expect to pay between $69,000 and $82,800 for the program. Additional expenses for books, fees, and materials may also apply. Financial aid options are available for eligible students.
- Length: The PhD in Nursing program is structured to be completed within 4-5 years for full-time students. This program emphasizes research, requiring students to delve into advanced studies in nursing theory, research methodologies, and health policy. The dissertation process, involving original research, is a crucial aspect that may prolong the program for part-time students or those conducting extensive research.
- Mode: The PhD in Nursing program at Rivier University is delivered in a hybrid format, with some on-campus residencies necessary for face-to-face interaction, particularly in the initial stages of the program. The online coursework offers flexibility, while on-campus sessions facilitate student-teacher relationships, in-depth discussions, research advancement, and networking opportunities. The program also emphasizes research, expecting students to contribute original findings to the nursing field. Clinical hours or practicums may be required based on the student’s research or professional objectives.
Post-Master’s Certificate Programs
A post-master’s certificate nursing program offers current RNs with MSNs the ability to complete further coursework in order to advance their skills with a specialization. These clinical specialties can include adult-gerontology, family practice, and psychiatric mental health. Students then become qualified to sit for the subsequent national certification exam of their chosen specialty.
University of New Hampshire – Post-Master’s Graduate Certificate
- Cost: The tuition for the online Post-Masters Graduate Certificate programs at UNH typically amounts to $650 per credit hour. The total cost of the program varies depending on the number of credits required for the specific certificate, with most programs ranging between 12 and 18 credits. Therefore, the total tuition cost for the certificate program falls between approximately $7,800 and $11,700. Additional fees for textbooks, materials, and graduation may also be applicable. Financial aid options, including federal loans and scholarships, are available to eligible students to assist in managing tuition expenses.
- Length: The duration of the Post-Masters Graduate Certificate program at UNH varies based on the specific certificate and whether students choose to attend full-time or part-time. Typically, these certificates can be completed within 1 to 2 years. Part-time enrollment options are available to accommodate working professionals, allowing for flexibility in completing the program. The programs are structured to be completed at the student’s own pace while fulfilling the requirements for advanced practice nursing or specialization in areas such as nursing education, healthcare leadership, or clinical practice.
- Mode: The Post-Masters Graduate Certificate programs at UNH are primarily delivered online, providing students with the opportunity to complete coursework remotely and at their convenience. The programs utilize a blend of asynchronous online classes and synchronous elements, such as virtual class meetings or live discussions.
Bridge Degree Programs
Online bridge nursing programs in New Hampshire include RN to BSN and LPN to RN pathways. These programs are designed for registered nurses or licensed practical nurses seeking to advance their education and career. They offer flexibility, enabling working nurses to earn higher degrees while maintaining their current job responsibilities.
LPN to RN and LPN to BSN
LPN to RN programs build upon prior LPN knowledge to accumulate the necessary skills to become a registered nurse. LPN to BSN programs typically involve coursework that extends past the requirements for an RN license, opening up opportunities for more advanced nursing roles. Both types of programs allow transfer previous nursing credits, which would ultimately decrease the amount of time a student would need to complete the program.
NHTI Concord’s Community College – LPN to RN Completion Option
- Cost: The LPN to RN Completion Option program at NHTI is priced at approximately $200 per credit hour for in-state students, with out-of-state students facing a higher rate. The total cost of the program varies depending on the number of credits required for completion. Typically consisting of around 60 credits, the estimated total tuition cost for in-state students falls between $12,000 and $15,000. Additional expenses may include fees for textbooks, uniforms, supplies, and clinical placements. Eligible students have access to financial aid options such as federal student loans, grants, and scholarships.
- Length: The LPN to RN Completion Option program at NHTI typically spans 2 years for full-time students, with part-time options available for those who require a longer duration. The program is structured to be completed over four semesters, covering courses in nursing theory, clinical practice, and general education requirements. Designed to leverage the prior knowledge of LPNs and expedite the transition to an RN role by enhancing existing skills and competencies.
- Mode: The LPN to RN Completion Option degree program at NHTI is primarily delivered through a hybrid model. While theoretical learning takes place in the classroom or online, students must complete clinical hours in healthcare settings like hospitals, nursing homes, or clinics. NHTI offers a supportive learning environment with small class sizes, personalized faculty support, and resources to aid student success. Clinical rotations are also incorporated to help students develop practical nursing skills in real-world healthcare settings.
RN to MSN
The online RN to MSN program in New Hampshire allows RNs to earn an MSN degree by building on their existing nursing knowledge. The program combines clinical practice with advanced coursework in leadership, education, or specialized nursing roles, preparing RNs for higher-level positions.
Franklin Pierce University – RN to MSN Program
- Cost: The online RN to MSN program at Franklin Pierce University is priced at approximately $675 per credit hour. The total cost of the program will vary based on the number of credits completed and any transfer credits a student brings. Typically, students will need to complete between 36 to 48 credits, resulting in a total program cost ranging from $24,000 to $32,400. Additional expenses may include textbooks, supplies, technology fees, and other associated costs. Financial aid options, such as federal student loans, scholarships, and employer tuition reimbursement programs, are available for eligible students.
- Length: The RN to MSN program at Franklin Pierce University generally takes 2 to 3 years to finish, depending on whether students choose to attend full-time or part-time. The duration of the program may vary depending on the student’s prior educational background and the specific concentration they select.
- Mode: Franklin Pierce University’s RN to MSN program is delivered online, but students must fulfill a specific number of clinical hours, depending on their chosen MSN specialization (such as Nursing Education, Nursing Leadership, or Family Nurse Practitioner). The online program combines asynchronous learning (where students complete coursework at their own pace) with synchronous elements like live virtual discussions and web-based seminars. These clinical hours can be arranged at approved healthcare facilities in the student’s local area, allowing students to gain practical, hands-on experience while still completing their coursework remotely.
BSN to DNP
BSN to DNP programs are designed for registered nurses with a BSN to earn a DNP degree. The program combines advanced clinical practice with leadership and healthcare policy education, preparing graduates for top nursing roles. This option allows students to fast-track their career goals as they essentially skip the step of obtaining an MSN.
Rivier University – DNP Bridge Option
- Cost: The BSN to DNP Bridge Program at Rivier University is priced at approximately $1,150 per credit hour. The total cost of the program is determined by the number of credits required and the chosen specialization. Typically, students will need to complete 70-80 credits, resulting in a total tuition cost ranging from $80,500 to $92,000. Additional expenses such as textbooks, clinical placements, technology, and other associated costs may also apply. Financial aid options, including federal loans, scholarships, and employer tuition reimbursement, are available to assist eligible students in managing these expenses.
- Length: The BSN to DNP Bridge Program is structured to be completed within 3-4 years of full-time study, with part-time options available. The program length may vary based on a student’s pace, prior academic credits, and specific clinical requirements related to their chosen specialization. Core nursing courses, clinical hours, and a final DNP project are included in the program.
- Mode: Although the program is predominantly online, students must complete clinical practicum hours based on their chosen concentration, such as Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Executive, or Clinical Leadership. These clinical hours can be completed at healthcare facilities near the student’s location, providing valuable real-world experience to complement their academic studies. Furthermore, the program includes a DNP project, which gives students the opportunity to conduct original research or evidence-based practice to address significant healthcare issues. This project is a key aspect of the curriculum, showcasing students’ ability to apply advanced nursing knowledge to solve complex clinical or administrative challenges.
Direct-Entry MSN
After working as a registered nurse for several years, you might choose pursue a doctorate. An online BSN to DNP program can typically be completed in about three to four years of full-time study. Upon finishing this program, you will be qualified for various roles, including nursing professor, healthcare executive, clinical researcher, and nurse practitioner leader. Similar to MSN programs, you can also choose from specializations in areas such as adult-gerontology acute or primary care, nurse midwifery, or clinical nurse specialist, among others.
Pacific Lutheran University – Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Cost: $1,230 per credit hour
- Length: Three to four years
- Mode: Hybrid
Direct-Entry MSN
The online direct entry MSN program in New Hampshire allows individuals with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree to earn a Master of Science in Nursing. This accelerated program combines nursing theory, clinical practice, and leadership skills, preparing graduates for licensure and advanced roles in nursing, such as nurse practitioner or educator.
University of New Hampshire – Nursing: Direct Entry
- Cost: The program is priced at approximately $920 per credit hour. Additional expenses may include textbooks, clinical placement requirements, technology fees, and other administrative fees. Eligible students may explore financial aid options such as federal loans, grants, and scholarships to help offset these costs.
- Length: The Direct Entry MSN program at UNH typically spans 2 to 3 years, depending on whether students opt for full-time or part-time enrollment. The curriculum encompasses nursing theory courses, clinical practice, and mandatory general education courses. Full-time students typically finish the program in 3 years, while part-time students may take longer.
- Mode: While the program is predominantly online, students must complete clinical placements in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare facilities. These clinical hours are crucial for acquiring hands-on experience and are organized in collaboration with UNH’s clinical placement office. Upon successfully finishing the program, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain licensure as Registered Nurses. Subsequently, graduates can pursue further education to advance into specialized practice roles or leadership positions within the field of nursing.
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
Licensing Information & Requirements for Registered Nurses in New Hampshire
As briefly alluded to in the above sections; to become a licensed Registered Nurse (RN) in New Hampshire, you must complete an accredited nursing program and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Then you must apply for licensure with the New Hampshire Board of Nursing, submit transcripts, and undergo a criminal background check. After you initially receive your license, you must regularly complete continuing education courses to renew the license. To learn more about the steps to RN licensure in New Hampshire, EduMed has broken down the process from education to license renewal.
1 – Earn an Accredited Nursing Degree
Research schools with accredited nursing programs recognized by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Apply to programs that fit your career goals, such as BSN, ADN, or MSN. Complete clinical hours and coursework and pass the NCLEX-RN for licensure. Stay updated on New Hampshire’s nursing license requirements and consider further specialization or advanced degrees to enhance your career.
2 – Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
To pass the NCLEX-RN exam in New Hampshire, start by thoroughly reviewing the test plan provided by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). Focus on key areas such as safe and effective care, health promotion, and psychosocial integrity. Use NCLEX review books, study groups, and practice exams to build familiarity with the format and types of questions. Take a look at our beginner’s guide to the NCLEX as well as our guide to essential study skills for healthcare students.
3 – Apply for State Licensure
Visit the New Hampshire Board of Nursing website to fill out the licensure application and pay the required fee. You will need to submit your official transcripts, proof of NCLEX results, and undergo a criminal background check. Keep track of any additional requirements such as continuing education for license renewal, and ensure you maintain strong time management skills to meet deadlines for application submission.
4 – Maintain and Renew Licensure
To maintain and renew your nursing licensure in New Hampshire, complete the required continuing education (CE) credits. The state requires 30 contact hours of CE every 2 years. Keep track of your professional development and submit proof when renewing your license. Ensure your license renewal application is submitted before it expires and stay informed about any changes to licensure requirements by checking the New Hampshire Board of Nursing website regularly.
5 – Pursue Specialty Certifications (Optional)
To pursue specialty certifications in New Hampshire, research the certifications relevant to your nursing career goals, such as family nurse practitioner or critical care nurse. Candidates must meet the eligibility requirements, which typically include additional education, clinical experience, and passing an exam. Apply through recognized certifying organizations like ANCC or AACN, and ensure you maintain the certification by completing required continuing education and renewal processes. Specialty certifications can enhance career opportunities and expertise in specific areas of nursing.
Career & Salary Outlook for Registered Nurses in New Hampshire
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire | $69,250 | $96,830 | $120,120 |
| Manchester-Nashua, NH | $69,250 | $87,210 | $118,960 |
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 |
| New Hampshire | 13,690 | 14,600 | 910 | 6.60% | 850 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Ranking the Best Online Nursing Programs in New Hampshire
We’ve compiled some of New Hampshire’s top nursing program options using data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Our ranking methodology factors in proper accreditation, amount of online components, and student support services to determine the best schools in the state. If you would like more information, visit the “About the Rankings” pop-up below. Keep reading to discover which schools made their way onto our list.
University of New Hampshire-Main Campus
Durham, NHProgram Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $12,949 Avg. Aid Amount
- 78% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of New Hampshire-Main Campus
- The Nursing RN to BSN program offers flexibility for working nurses with fully online courses and the ability to transfer up to 90 credits, accelerating degree completion.
- The program includes access to experiential learning opportunities like HEaRT, connecting students with employers to solve real-world healthcare problems before graduation.
- Clinical placement requirements ensure extensive hands-on experience (500–750 hours), enabling students to develop practical nursing skills and confidence in real healthcare settings.
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $12,949 Avg. Aid Amount
- 78% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $37,454 Avg. Aid Amount
- 65% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Colby-Sawyer College
- Colby-Sawyer Nursing students gain early and extensive clinical experience, including sophomore-year clinical starts, twice-weekly junior/senior rotations, and a semester-long preceptorship primarily at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, fostering strong professional confidence and skills.
- The program offers the Rural Health Careers Scholarship, providing up to $1,250 per semester (total $5,000) for MSN students employed at rural New Hampshire healthcare facilities, supporting financial accessibility and workforce development in underserved areas.
- Colby-Sawyer maintains a close partnership with Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, regarded as DHMC's nursing school, facilitating premier clinical placements and strong post-graduation employment opportunities at a leading medical center.
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $37,454 Avg. Aid Amount
- 65% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $8,056 Avg. Aid Amount
- 53% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Plymouth State University
- Plymouth State University offers an accelerated RN-to-BSN track enabling licensed registered nurses to transfer 60-90 credits, shortening time to degree completion and advancing their careers efficiently.
- The Nursing program provides immersive, hands-on clinical learning experiences designed to build practical skills through real-world healthcare settings, enhancing readiness for professional nursing roles.
- Students benefit from small class sizes and highly supportive faculty, fostering personalized instruction, better learning, and enhanced communication skills development within a community-focused environment.
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $8,056 Avg. Aid Amount
- 53% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $34,326 Avg. Aid Amount
- 41% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Franklin Pierce University
- Franklin Pierce University’s Nursing program offers an accelerated Master’s Entry Program in Nursing (MEPN) that can be completed in just 18 months, enabling students to earn a master’s degree and a healthcare administration certificate quickly while preparing for the NCLEX-RN licensing exam.
- The program features strong clinical partnerships with top medical centers like Dartmouth-Hitchcock, Concord Hospital, and Catholic Medical Center, providing students with high-quality, hands-on clinical experiences and access to a world-class simulation lab.
- Flexible online learning options for working nurses enable them to personalize their R.N. to B.S.N. schedules around part- or full-time study, supporting career advancement without interrupting their professional and personal obligations.
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $34,326 Avg. Aid Amount
- 41% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $20,455 Avg. Aid Amount
- 60% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Rivier University
- Rivier’s RN to BSN online program allows transfer of up to 90 credits, enabling completion in as little as one year with accelerated seven-week courses.
- The program is ranked #1 in New Hampshire and delivered fully online, combining flexible scheduling with ACEN accreditation and strong faculty expertise.
- Students can continue working while earning their degree, immediately applying coursework to advance patient care and leadership skills in real-world settings.
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $20,455 Avg. Aid Amount
- 60% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $29,355 Avg. Aid Amount
- 78% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Saint Anselm College
- Saint Anselm’s Nursing program offers a 7:1 or lower student-to-instructor clinical ratio, ensuring personalized mentorship and hands-on learning in diverse settings like ICUs and Emergency Departments.
- The program boasts a 99% NCLEX nursing licensure pass rate, significantly above the national average, reflecting outstanding academic preparation and competency.
- Students benefit from a soon-to-be-completed 45,000 square-foot dedicated nursing facility featuring state-of-the-art simulation labs and high-fidelity patient simulators to enhance experiential learning.
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $29,355 Avg. Aid Amount
- 78% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
White Mountains Community College
Berlin, NHProgram Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $1,493 Avg. Aid Amount
- 57% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 7/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected White Mountains Community College
- Western Michigan University's Bronson School of Nursing offers a fully online RN-to-BSN program designed for working nurses, providing flexible scheduling and only one community-based practicum, making it easier to advance education while working.
- The pre-licensure BSN program is endorsed by the American Holistic Nurses Credentialing Corporation, ensuring students receive a unique education emphasizing holistic and patient-centered nursing care.
- WMU Nursing emphasizes small class sizes, hands-on clinical experiences, and interprofessional learning with other health disciplines, which strongly prepares students for leadership roles and NCLEX-RN eligibility.
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $1,493 Avg. Aid Amount
- 57% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 7/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $418 Avg. Aid Amount
- 31% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Manchester Community College
- Manchester Community College's Nursing program offers several transfer partnerships with regional colleges, universities, and hospitals, facilitating efficient and cost-effective progression from RN to BSN degrees for students after initial RN training.
- The program includes hands-on simulation labs combined with clinical experiences to ensure students gain practical skills and prepare to sit for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam upon completion.
- MCC collaborates with River Valley Community College to provide an LPN certificate program that expands nursing pathways while keeping administrative costs low, directly addressing local workforce shortages and improving career entry options for students.
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $418 Avg. Aid Amount
- 31% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $473 Avg. Aid Amount
- 33% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 9/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Lakes Region Community College
- The Nursing program at Lakes Region Community College boasts a 100% first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate for the Class of 2023 and 2024, demonstrating outstanding exam preparation and graduate success.
- Students have direct pathways to pursue Bachelor of Science degrees in Nursing through partnerships with Southern New Hampshire University and Colby Sawyer College, facilitating academic advancement.
- The program emphasizes evidence-based education and collaborative practice within multi-professional healthcare teams, preparing graduates for high-quality, ethical patient care in diverse clinical settings.
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $473 Avg. Aid Amount
- 33% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 9/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Great Bay Community College
Portsmouth, NHProgram Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $976 Avg. Aid Amount
- 36% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Great Bay Community College
- Great Bay Community College offers advanced placement and transfer credit options allowing accelerated progression through the Nursing program for qualified students.
- The program includes diverse clinical experiences in acute, long-term, perinatal/pediatric, psychiatric, and community health care settings, enhancing practical skills and employability.
- Flexible scheduling and part-time enrollment options enable students to complete Nursing courses concurrently in sequence, accommodating varied personal and work commitments.
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $976 Avg. Aid Amount
- 36% Graduation Rate
- Public 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
