Online Nursing Schools in Rhode Island: Finding Top Programs
Career opportunities continue to grow in healthcare for educated and trained nurses in Rhode Island. Get an in-depth look inside schools, find the best nursing programs in Rhode Island, learn what it’s like to be a nurse in the state, and see what salary you can expect.
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Types of Online Nursing Programs in Rhode Island
Online nursing programs span a wide range of degree levels, from associate and bachelor’s degrees (ADN, BSN) to advanced practice and doctoral options (MSN, DNP, PhD). While a small number of programs are fully online, most use a hybrid format that blends online coursework with required in-person clinical training. When vetting programs, here are five places to start:
- Program formats and delivery. Online coursework often includes recorded lectures, interactive learning modules, and discussion boards, allowing for flexible study schedules.
- Hands-on clinical experience. Clinical rotations and skills labs are completed in person at approved healthcare facilities to build real-world patient care skills.
- Accreditation and licensure eligibility. Programs should be accredited by recognized bodies such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), as accreditation is critical for state licensure approval.
- State-specific requirements. Nursing boards vary by state, so it’s important to confirm that an online program meets your state’s education and licensing standards.
- Cost and flexibility considerations. Tuition, scheduling options, and required on-site commitments can differ significantly between programs.
Comparing multiple programs and aligning them with your career goals, budget, and personal schedule will help you find the online nursing program that’s right for you.
Online Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Online undergraduate nursing programs typically include Associate Degrees in Nursing (ADN) and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). These programs are designed for aspiring nurses, career changers, or working professionals seeking flexibility. BSN programs also cater to registered nurses (RNs) looking to advance their credentials through RN-to-BSN pathways.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program prepares students for entry-level roles in patient care. These short-term programs, often lasting weeks to months, combine online coursework with in-person clinical training.
CNAs assist nurses with daily patient care needs and help keep the unit running smoothly. Since these programs often take just a few months to complete, they are ideal for those who want to start a healthcare career quickly.
Example: Community College of Rhode Island
- Cost: Free employment sponsored opportunities available; $1,400 for open enrollment
- Length: 130-190 hours
- Mode: Hybrid
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program trains students to provide basic nursing care under the supervision of RNs and doctors. Typically lasting 12-18 months, these programs blend online coursework with in-person clinical training.
LPNs work in hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics, making this another great entry-level option for aspiring healthcare professionals.
Example: New England Institute of Technology
- Cost: $18,540
- Length: 15 months
- Mode: Hybrid
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
If you aren’t interested in a four-year college degree but want the job security of being a registered nurse, you can get your associate degree in nursing.
These 18-month to two-year programs are available at a few nursing schools in Rhode Island, and prepare students for taking their nursing exams with coursework in the sciences and patient care clinicals.
Example: Community College of Rhode Island
- Cost: $4,700/year in state; $12,544/year out-of-state
- Length: 18-month to two years
- Mode: Hybrid
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Those serious about a long-term career in nursing should consider the four-year BSN degree. These programs prepare you with a strong foundation in patient care, evidence-based practice, research skills, and nursing theory.
In addition, many employers now prefer to hire BSN-prepared nurses over those with less training. Though four years is a serious commitment, earning your BSN can help you quickly land a job out of school and put your career on a strong trajectory for higher earnings and more responsibility.
Example: Rhode Island College
- Cost: $11,709/year in state; $28,268/year out-of-state
- Length: Four years
- Mode: Hybrid
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
If you already have a bachelor’s degree in an unrelated field, you may be eligible to take some additional nursing courses and get a BSN on an accelerated schedule. Students who have earned all the general education credits required for a bachelor’s degree in another subject may be able to get their degree in two-three years, taking 12 credits per semester.
Example: Rhode Island College
- Cost: $397 per credit in state; $980 per credit out-of-state
- Length: Two to three years
- Mode: Hybrid
Graduate Nursing Degree Programs
Graduate nursing programs include the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and PhD in Nursing. These programs are designed for registered nurses seeking advanced practice roles, leadership positions, or careers in nursing education and research. They often combine online coursework with in-person clinical or research components.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
If you already have your bachelor’s degree and an active registered nurse license, a traditional MSN programs in Rhode Island may be for you. With advanced courses and the opportunity to work alongside top-tier professors, graduates of these programs could go on to get their Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) designation.
Example: Salve Regina University
- Cost: $801 per credit
- Length: 28-32 months
- Mode: Online
DNP and PhD Doctoral Programs
A nursing doctoral program puts you in the driver’s seat for a career in teaching, advanced nursing care, or nursing leadership. You could choose to enter a doctorate of nursing practice (DNP) program or get your PhD. Both offer incredible opportunities to explore all that healthcare has to offer, as well as the highest salary ranges.
Example: University of Rhode Island
- Cost: $918 per credit in state; $1,788 per credit out-of-state
- Length: 18 months to two years
- Mode: Hybrid
Post-Master’s Certificate Programs
If you’ve already earned your advanced degree but want to continue refining your skills in niche areas of medicine, a post-graduate certificate program may be for you. There are many specialties to choose from, including nursing management, patient care and service quality, and gerontology/acute care. Earning a certificate can make you more attractive to hiring managers for top nursing positions.
Example: University of Rhode Island
- Cost: $631 per credit in-state; $1,503 per credit out-of-state
- Length: One to two years
- Mode: Hybrid
Nursing Bridge Programs
Bridge nursing programs help licensed nurses advance their education efficiently. Common options include LPN-to-RN, RN-to-BSN, and RN-to-MSN programs. These programs, often completed mostly online with required clinical components, are ideal for working nurses seeking career growth, higher salaries, or leadership roles while maintaining their current employment in healthcare settings.
RN to BSN
With many of the core nursing courses completed, registered nurses are good candidates to continue their education and earn their bachelor’s degree through an RN to BSN program. Additional coursework in general studies, as well as advanced nursing theory, is typically required. Expect to have around 37 credits transferred into the program, with an additional 45 credits or more required for graduation.
Example: New England Institute of Technology
- Cost: $275 per credit
- Length: 14-15 months
- Mode: Online
Licensing Steps & Requirements for RNs in Rhode Island
To become an RN in Rhode Island, candidates must complete an accredited nursing program, pass the NCLEX-RN exam, and apply for licensure through the Rhode Island Board of Nursing. Continuing education is required for renewal. Optional specialty certifications can enhance career opportunities in advanced practice and specialized fields.
1 – Earn an Accredited Nursing Degree
To become a nurse in Rhode Island, you must complete a degree from a school approved by the Rhode Island Nursing Board. Also ensure the program is accredited by ACEN or CCNE for the license you’re pursuing — whether RN or LPN — to meet state requirements.
Then, keep track of your transcripts, as they are required when applying for your nursing license. Be sure to research multiple programs to find one that matches your career goals and offers the right balance of online coursework and clinical training.
2 – Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
After completing your nursing degree, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a licensed nurse in Rhode Island. First, register with the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) and pay the exam fee (approximately $300-$350).
Once your transcripts are verified, you’ll receive an Authorization to Test (ATT). Schedule your exam promptly and prepare using NCLEX study guides, practice tests, and review courses. A passing score is required to proceed with your Rhode Island nursing license application.
3 – Apply for State Licensure
Once you’ve passed the NCLEX-RN (or NCLEX-PN for LPNs), apply for your Rhode Island nursing license online through the Rhode Island Board of Nursing. Submit all required documents, including transcripts and proof of exam completion.
Fees are $135 for RNs and $45 for LPNs. Supporting documents must be mailed to the licensure office, so confirm delivery and processing times. Double-check state-specific licensing requirements to avoid delays and ensure a smooth approval process.
4 – Maintain and Renew Licensure
To keep your Rhode Island nursing license active, stay up to date with continuing education (CE) requirements, which may change periodically. The Rhode Island Board of Nursing posts current CE guidelines on its website, so check regularly to ensure compliance.
Licenses must be renewed every two years, with fees and renewal processes outlined online. Keep records of completed CE courses and workshops, as proof may be required. Timely renewal prevents delays or lapses in your ability to practice.
5 – Pursue Specialty Certifications (Optional)
Earning specialty nursing certifications can enhance your skills, increase job opportunities, and boost your earning potential. Rhode Island nurses can pursue certifications in areas like critical care (CCRN), oncology (OCN), or pediatrics (CPN).
Research certification requirements through organizations like the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or specialty nursing boards. Some certifications require additional clinical hours or exams. Check if your employer offers reimbursement for certification costs and ensure your credentials remain valid through continuing education and renewal processes.
Career & Salary Info for Rhode Island RNs
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $72,090 | $99,960 | $128,520 |
| Providence-Warwick, RI-MA | $72,090 | $97,220 | $133,310 |
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 |
| Rhode Island | 11,920 | 12,700 | 780 | 6.50% | 740 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Ranking the Best Online Nursing Programs in Rhode Island
Choosing the right online nursing program in Rhode Island requires careful consideration of factors like cost, flexibility, accreditation, and clinical requirements. Our rankings help speed up your decision by evaluating programs based on key criteria, including academic quality, student outcomes, and affordability.
Understanding these factors ensures you select a program that provides what you’re looking for and suits your learning preferences. Explore the top-ranked nursing programs below, and for more details on how rankings are determined, check out our About the Rankings pop-up.
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $11,315 Avg. Aid Amount
- 71% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Rhode Island
- The University of Rhode Island's RN to BSN program offers a fully online, research-intensive curriculum that can be completed in as few as 15 months, allowing working nurses to advance quickly without campus attendance.
- Students benefit from learning under top educators and pioneering researchers, gaining a strong foundation to manage complex healthcare environments and prepare for leadership and advocacy roles in nursing.
- URI’s program enables CCRI nursing students in their last RN semester to apply early without an active nursing license, streamlining their pathway to the BSN degree.
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $11,315 Avg. Aid Amount
- 71% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $3,768 Avg. Aid Amount
- 45% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Rhode Island College
- Rhode Island College’s Nursing program offers free tuition for eligible Rhode Island students through the Hope Scholarship during their junior and senior years, significantly reducing financial barriers.
- RIC nursing graduates consistently achieve top NCLEX pass rates, reflecting strong preparation and high-quality clinical education that supports exam success and licensure.
- The program provides multiple advanced degree options with specialized concentrations, including Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Practitioner, and Population/Public Health Nursing, allowing focused career paths in high-demand specialties.
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $3,768 Avg. Aid Amount
- 45% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
New England Institute of Technology
East Greenwich, RIProgram Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $8,656 Avg. Aid Amount
- 51% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected New England Institute of Technology
- New England Institute of Technology's nursing program was among the first in Rhode Island to launch a 100% online RN to BSN program, allowing working professionals to earn their bachelor's degree conveniently from home.
- The program offers a fast-track Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) certificate that can be completed in as little as 12 months, providing a quick entry into healthcare careers.
- Students benefit from knowledgeable faculty and state-of-the-art simulation labs, ensuring robust hands-on learning and strong clinical experience before real patient care.
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $8,656 Avg. Aid Amount
- 51% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Johnson & Wales University-Providence
Providence, RIProgram Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $22,844 Avg. Aid Amount
- 62% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Johnson & Wales University-Providence
- Johnson & Wales University’s Providence ABSN program offers hands-on experience with high-fidelity simulation labs and seven clinical pairings in diverse healthcare settings, enhancing real-world skills.
- The program uses a cohort model promoting strong peer support and collaborative learning among small, consistent groups throughout the 16-month accelerated curriculum.
- The ABSN program at JWU Providence holds national CCNE accreditation and boasts a 100% first-time NCLEX pass rate, affirming its high quality and graduate success.
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $22,844 Avg. Aid Amount
- 62% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $28,765 Avg. Aid Amount
- 73% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Salve Regina University
- Salve Regina University's nursing program features direct admission with courses starting in the first semester, enabling students to complete the CCNE-accredited degree in four years with early clinical exposure.
- Students gain hands-on experience through clinical placements at prestigious affiliated hospitals and state-of-the-art simulation labs, ensuring practical skills in diverse patient care scenarios.
- The program supports professional growth by encouraging participation in research, internships, athletics, and study abroad opportunities, fostering a well-rounded educational and networking environment.
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $28,765 Avg. Aid Amount
- 73% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Community College of Rhode Island
Warwick, RIProgram Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $732 Avg. Aid Amount
- 31% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Community College of Rhode Island
- Central Connecticut State University’s Nursing program offers an accelerated 15-month Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) for those with a prior bachelor’s degree, combining on-campus, hybrid, and online learning with state-of-the-art simulation technology and individualized NCLEX-prep coaching.
- The program provides access to experienced faculty from diverse nursing disciplines who integrate current clinical expertise directly into courses and clinical rotations, enhancing practical and up-to-date professional training.
- CCSU Nursing is highly ranked for NCLEX-RN pass rates in Connecticut and offers scholarships and financial aid options, supporting students financially while preparing them for licensure and effective nursing careers.
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $732 Avg. Aid Amount
- 31% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 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
