Online Nursing Schools in Ohio: Finding Top Programs
If you’re looking to build your career prospects and make a lasting impact on the medical industry, an online nursing school in Ohio can be the key to taking you there. Explore RN programs at the graduate and undergraduate levels, review our list of the top online RN programs, get information on how to obtain your first nursing license, and find out how much you can expect to earn when you’ve completed your studies.
The following professionals lent their expertise to this article:
HealthcareNursingPre-NursingWhy 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 Ohio’s Online Nursing Programs
Online nursing programs in Ohio blend virtual coursework with essential in-person training. As you compare programs, keep these key points in mind:
- Balanced learning: Many programs offer online classes paired with on-campus labs to reinforce hands-on skills.
- Accreditation: Program accreditation is critical to ensure educational quality and eligibility for licensure.
- Format differences: The amount of coursework offered online varies by school and degree level.
- Clinical requirements: All programs require supervised clinical experiences, which are necessary for applying theory to practice and qualifying for Ohio nursing licensure.
Use the following section to get the inside scoop on real online and hybrid nursing program options available in Ohio.
Undergraduate Nursing Programs in Ohio (Hybrid/Online)
If you want to begin your career quickly, there are undergraduate nursing programs that allow you to get into the field in a year or less. By completing a diploma and certificate program, you can gain the essential knowledge and skills needed to get an entry-level job.
Once you’ve gotten this basic nursing experience, you can go on to earn an associate or bachelor’s degree in nursing. These degrees are designed to provide you with more skills and prepare you for higher-level positions.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
If you’re interested in becoming a CNA, you could do so in three months or less. CNA programs can usually be completed within this timeframe, and more intensive options include 4-week CNA programs and even 2-week CNA programs. This is a good starting point for beginning a nursing career, as these programs train you to work in a variety of healthcare settings.
Example: Columbus State Community College
- Cost: $192.93 per credit in-state; $394.59 per credit out-of-state
- Length: 3 months
- Mode: On campus
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
It generally takes one to two years to earn an LPN certificate or diploma. During this time, you’ll learn basic nursing skills that are required to get a state license and land a job. The curriculum includes instruction on how to administer medications and wound care, as well as help patients with bathing and dressing.
Example: Professional Skills Institute
- Cost: $16,032.25 per year
- Length: 12 months
- Mode: Hybrid
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
An associate degree in nursing (ADN) is a two-year program designed to help students get started in a registered nursing career. Students take general education and nursing courses and attend clinicals to gain the knowledge and experience necessary to pass the NCLEX-RN exam. After completing this program, nurses can work in hospitals, home health agencies, doctor offices, and other settings.
Example: Columbus State Community College
- Cost: $192.93 per credit in-state; $394.59 per credit out-of-state
- Length: 24 months
- Mode: Hybrid
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
A bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree is a traditional four-year program that culminates in becoming a registered nurse in the state of Ohio. Many employers want nurses who hold a BSN because these graduates are not just prepared to carry out basic nursing duties, but they are also trained for more advanced leadership positions.
Example: Ohio State University
- Cost: $13,244 per year in-state; $40,022 per year out-of-state
- Length: 48 months
- Mode: On campus
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
An accelerated BSN program is a faster version of a traditional BSN designed specifically for those who already have a bachelor’s degree in a different field. This option typically waives general education courses and puts students straight to work on the nursing curriculum. If you’re looking for a career change and want to become a nurse, this program is for you.
Example: Cleveland State University
- Cost: $301 to $339 per credit in-state; $429 to $483 per credit out-of-state
- Length: 16 months
- Mode: Hybrid
Graduate-Level Nursing Programs in Ohio (Hybrid/Online)
If you want to become an expert in a certain part of the nursing field, a graduate degree program is worth exploring. From neonatal to psychiatric to geriatric nursing, there are master’s degree programs that provide a deep dive into specific nursing disciplines. Also, if you’re considering becoming a researcher or nursing instructor, you can enroll in a doctoral degree program that builds on your current knowledge and skills.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
A master of science in nursing (MSN) is perfect for students with a BSN looking to specialize or work toward becoming nurse practitioners. These programs, which take about two years to complete, prepare students to focus their practice on a specific area of care, such as pediatric or mental health nursing.
Example: Ohio University
- Cost: $512 to $668 per credit
- Length: 36 months
- Mode: Hybrid
DNP and PhD Doctoral Programs
A DNP and PhD in nursing are both doctoral nursing programs that dive into the specialties and advanced philosophies of nursing. Students who want to perform research and push the boundaries of science to change the future of healthcare earn a doctoral degree to train for this role. Also, if you want to train the next generation of nurses, a doctorate is necessary to become a college professor.
Example: Mount Carmel College of Nursing
- Cost: $1,095 per credit
- Length: 24 months
- Mode: Online
Post-Master’s Certificate Programs
Post-graduate certificates are for nurses who already have a master’s degree but want to study a second specialization without getting a doctorate. Examples of these certificates include nursing leadership, family nurse practitioner, and adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner. Programs may be offered fully or partially online, depending on the area you want to specialize in.
Example: Walsh University
- Cost: $775 per credit
- Length: 24 months
- Mode: Online
Nursing Bridge Programs in Ohio (Hybrid & Fully Online)
RN bridge programs help nurses leverage the education they’ve already completed to earn a higher-level degree. This allows experienced nurses to earn another degree in less time because they don’t have to study topics they already know. For example, a registered nurse can earn a bachelor’s or graduate degree by building on the education and experience they already have.
LPN to RN and LPN to BSN
Those who are licensed practical nurses (LPN) aren’t registered nurses, though they can do many of the same tasks as RNs as long as they are supervised. LPN to RN programs are specifically for these professionals because they build on prior knowledge and supplement it with clinical experiences in preparation for the NCLEX-RN exam and becoming registered nurses. LPN to BSN programs are for nurses who would prefer to have a broader scope of practice than RNs with associate degrees.
Example: EHOVE Career Center
- Cost: $16,500
- Length: 12 months
- Mode: Hybrid
RN to BSN
Many employers are seeking registered nurses who have completed a full bachelor’s degree. RN to BSN programs in Ohio are for registered nurses who have the experience but not the degree. These programs are often available online, making it easier for students currently working as RNs to earn their degrees.
Example: Ohio State University
- Cost: $3,045 per semester
- Length: 12 months
- Mode: Online
RN to MSN
An RN to MSN program is for registered nurses who don’t have a BSN but know they want to get a graduate degree in nursing to specialize or work toward becoming a nurse practitioner. Programs typically take 16 to 30 months to complete. Although some programs have online coursework, you will generally be expected to participate in hands-on training.
Example: Mercy College of Ohio
- Cost: $675 per credit
- Length: 12 months
- Mode: Online
BSN to DNP
A BSN to DNP bridge program is a good choice for RNs who want a terminal degree to provide the highest level of nursing care. These degrees allow you to pursue a nursing specialization, so if you’re interested in specialties like geriatrics, pediatrics, or women’s health, you’ll get the advanced knowledge and skills needed to practice at the highest level of nursing care.
Example: Ohio State University
- Cost: $9,682 per semester in-state; $22,982 per semester out-of-state
- Length: 36 months
- Mode: On campus
Direct-Entry MSN
If you have a bachelor’s degree in another discipline and you want to study nursing, you may be concerned that you’ll have to start over from scratch. However, with a direct-entry MSN program, you can begin your nursing education and earn a master’s at the same time. Generally, these programs can be completed in about two to three years.
Example: Lourdes University
- Cost: $730 per credit
- Length: 20 months
- Mode: Hybrid
Licensing Requirements for Registered Nurses in Ohio
Knowing your state’s specific licensing requirements for registered nurses is crucial. The Ohio Board of Nursing lists everything you need to do. Note that some things must be done before you finish your nursing program.
We’ve detailed Ohio RN licensing information below in a step-by-step format for your peace of mind, so keep reading to find out more.
1 – Earn an Accredited Nursing Degree
The first step to earning a nursing license in Ohio is to complete an education program. Whether you want to become an RN or LPN, you need to get training from an accredited nursing school. This will ensure that you have the knowledge and skills employers in the state require from RNs to deliver quality care to patients.
Accredited programs have been thoroughly vetted and meet the standards set forth by the Ohio Administrative Code.
2 – Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
Register with Pearson VUE, the testing company for the NCLEX-RN exam, so they can send you an ATT (Authorization to Test) document once they receive notice that you’re eligible for the exam. This document includes a special ATT number you’ll need to register to take the test.
Once the Board has proof that you completed your nursing education, they’ll reach out to Pearson VUE and tell them you can take the exam. You will then receive your ATT document and can schedule a time to take the NCLEX-RN. Once you’ve registered, print a registration confirmation; download the NCLEX Candidate Bulletin for instructions, fee information, and Education Program Codes; and pay the NCLEX fee.
Be sure to prepare thoroughly for the exam, using resources such as our beginner’s guide to the NCLEX and our essential study skills guide for online healthcare students. Once you pass, the Ohio Board of Nursing issues your license.
3 – Apply for State Licensure
When you are nearing the end of your nursing degree program, go to Ohio’s professional licensing page and create your account with the “I don’t have a license” option. You’ll want the application to go to the nursing board and indicate that you’re applying for an RN license. Your application type will be through examination.
This application is used by the Ohio Nursing Board to determine if you are eligible to take the NCLEX. You will also need to pay a $75, non-refundable application fee. The registered nurse licensing requirements for the state set forth by the Ohio Nursing Board also include every licensing applicant completing a BCI (civilian) and FBI (federal) criminal records check.
4 – Maintain and Renew Licensure
In Ohio, nursing certification is subject to renewal every odd-numbered year and must be completed by October 31st of that year to keep a nursing license from lapsing. The Board sends renewal applications to every nurse with an active license to ensure that they get their paperwork completed on time.
To keep a nursing license current, the state requires that professionals complete 24 hours of approved continuing education (CE) nursing hours. These hours can be earned through various activities, including participation in research activities, professional meetings and conventions, and journal article reviews.
5 – Pursue Specialty Certifications (Optional)
There are several types of specialty certifications you can earn voluntarily to help bolster your credentials. In addition to RN and LPN licenses, the state also grants credentials for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), Community Health Workers (CHWs), Dialysis Technicians (DTs), and Volunteer Nurses.
Each credential has its own certification procedure, so go to the Ohio Board of Nursing’s website to find out what the requirements are. Submit an application for each credential and follow the directions carefully.
What to Expect as a Registered Nurse in Ohio
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio | $66,060 | $81,250 | $103,650 |
| Akron, OH | $65,560 | $81,520 | $99,280 |
| Canton-Massillon, OH | $62,490 | $77,650 | $96,950 |
| Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN | $68,540 | $81,790 | $103,510 |
| Cleveland, OH | $74,920 | $81,970 | $104,330 |
| Columbus, OH | $73,180 | $82,520 | $104,170 |
| Dayton-Kettering-Beavercreek, OH | $67,030 | $80,990 | $103,340 |
| Lima, OH | $64,240 | $78,510 | $93,850 |
| Mansfield, OH | $63,340 | $78,370 | $97,800 |
| Sandusky, OH | $68,730 | $83,060 | $92,710 |
| Springfield, OH | $61,260 | $77,180 | $96,870 |
| Toledo, OH | $66,030 | $79,440 | $99,500 |
| Youngstown-Warren, OH | $62,480 | $75,850 | $94,160 |
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 |
| Ohio | 131,390 | 135,860 | 4,470 | 3.40% | 7,630 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Ranking the Best Online Nursing Programs in Ohio
You’ve learned a lot about nursing degrees on the graduate and undergraduate levels, so now it’s time to think about the schools in Ohio that offer the best of the best. Whether you’re concerned about financial aid, convenience, or student services, this list provides a glimpse of the top options for students like you.
As you review our listings below, look at the methodology we used to choose these schools. This will explain what we looked for when reviewing schools, so you have an idea of what features to look for on as you research further. Take a look to see which Ohio schools made their way onto our list.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $7,394 Avg. Aid Amount
- 66% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 21/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Kent State University at Kent
- Kent State’s Nursing programs provide personalized advising and individualized academic plans to support student success in a fully online environment.
- The programs feature expert faculty who create small class sizes and focused, individualized attention, delivering innovative, engaging learning activities tailored for online study.
- Kent State offers flexible 100% online nursing degrees across bachelor’s, master’s, certificate, and doctoral levels, accessible to students in many states with clinicals completed locally.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $7,394 Avg. Aid Amount
- 66% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 21/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,570 Avg. Aid Amount
- 73% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 19/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Cincinnati
- The University of Cincinnati Nursing program offers a paid, one-to-one nursing co-op with experienced preceptors providing a minimum of 600 clinical hours, enhancing professional skills and employability before graduation.
- The BSN program guarantees direct admission without a secondary competitive process, enabling students to join healthcare teams including top regional trauma and pediatric hospitals for real-world clinical exposure.
- UC Nursing leverages advanced technology and fosters interprofessional collaboration and equity, preparing graduates as innovative leaders who impact healthcare transformation through strategic partnerships.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,570 Avg. Aid Amount
- 73% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 19/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,005 Avg. Aid Amount
- 55% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Toledo
- The University of Toledo Nursing program offers an accelerated and flexible BSN pathway that grants transfer credit for prior nursing education, catering specifically to adult learners and registered nurses seeking advancement.
- Students benefit from near 100% job placement rates supported by strong partnerships with UToledo Medical Center hospitals, clinics, and a renowned Simulation Center located adjacent to the nursing building.
- The program emphasizes interprofessional education where nursing students learn and practice collaboratively with peers from other health sciences in a nationally ranked, high-tech simulation and clinical environment.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,005 Avg. Aid Amount
- 55% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,922 Avg. Aid Amount
- 68% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Ohio University
- Ohio University's Nursing program offers an application fee waiver for the online RN to BSN program, reducing initial enrollment costs for prospective students.
- Students gain over 1,500 combined classroom, lab, and clinical hours, including hands-on experience with advanced simulation labs and community engagement, preparing them thoroughly for the NCLEX-RN and clinical practice.
- The program provides eight start dates annually with flexible, five-week online courses, allowing working nurses to complete their RN to BSN degree at their own pace while balancing career and life commitments.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,922 Avg. Aid Amount
- 68% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $9,815 Avg. Aid Amount
- 88% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Ohio State University
- The Ohio State University College of Nursing offers innovative learning technologies such as extended reality simulations and virtual escape rooms that enhance critical thinking and clinical reasoning beyond traditional clinical experiences.
- Students benefit from world-class faculty who integrate cutting-edge research and evidence-based practice into nursing education, including the nation’s first Doctor of Nursing Education program to prepare expert nurse educators.
- The College maintains strong partnerships and collaborations that promote advanced clinical placements, provide networking opportunities, and connect students with evidence-based healthcare initiatives supporting successful career outcomes.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $9,815 Avg. Aid Amount
- 88% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,551 Avg. Aid Amount
- 49% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Akron
- The University of Akron Nursing program offers accelerated Second-degree Bachelor of Nursing (Accelerated BSN) options, enabling students with prior degrees to complete their nursing education faster.
- UA Nursing provides flexible delivery methods including online and classroom/distance learning options, accommodating diverse student needs and schedules.
- The program is fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education across baccalaureate, master's, and doctoral levels, ensuring recognized educational quality and facilitating career advancement.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,551 Avg. Aid Amount
- 49% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $4,088 Avg. Aid Amount
- 43% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Wright State University
- Wright State's Nursing program offers an accelerated three-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing option, enabling faster degree completion.
- The program has partnerships with over 200 healthcare facilities, providing diverse and extensive clinical placement opportunities for hands-on experience.
- Wright State collaborates with Premier Health through its Nursing Academy, offering enhanced clinical practice opportunities and professional networking.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $4,088 Avg. Aid Amount
- 43% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $22,663 Avg. Aid Amount
- 67% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Walsh University
- Walsh University's MSN-FNP program includes a dedicated clinical placement coordinator who secures clinical sites and preceptors, ensuring seamless clinical experience for students.
- Students pursuing the MSN-Nurse Educator degree receive 17 credit hours towards their MSN tuition free, significantly reducing overall program cost.
- The program offers accelerated completion options, allowing students to finish the MSN-FNP program in as few as two years while working full-time.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $22,663 Avg. Aid Amount
- 67% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $26,523 Avg. Aid Amount
- 47% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 7/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Ursuline College
- Ursuline College’s Nursing program features a 100% job placement rate and NCLEX pass rates consistently above national and Ohio averages, with graduates recruited by top research hospitals in Cleveland and beyond.
- The program offers state-of-the-art, high-tech skills labs mimicking hospital wards and is among the few U.S. nursing programs to provide TeamSTEPPS certification, emphasizing superior patient-care teamwork.
- Students benefit from a low 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio that ensures personalized attention, plus advanced learning technologies like Hololens virtual reality to enhance anatomy and patient interaction training.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $26,523 Avg. Aid Amount
- 47% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 7/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Youngstown State University
Youngstown, OHProgram Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $5,372 Avg. Aid Amount
- 47% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Youngstown State University
- The RN to BSN online program at YSU is taught by the same experienced faculty as on-campus courses, ensuring high-quality instruction with ongoing student support and engagement.
- YSU’s Nursing program offers specialized online graduate clinical tracks, including Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner, enabling focused advanced practice education.
- The Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program boasts a NCLEX pass rate greater than 95% of the national average and achieves 100% job placement within six months of graduation.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $5,372 Avg. Aid Amount
- 47% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 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
Keep Learning
Browse the Top Online RN to MSN Programs in OH
Ohio MHA Programs Online: Comparing Top Schools
