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Author: Brenda Baron, BA
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Brenda Barron has written features on higher education and healthcare for more than a decade. She specializes in allied health and nursing education, and much of her work focuses on helping students make informed college and career decisions. Brenda holds a BA in English from California State University, Long Beach.
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Wes Ricketts has created award-winning content in higher education and healthcare for nearly 20 years. He founded EduMed in 2018 to give future college students a go-to resource for information on degree programs in nursing and allied health. Wes’s research and writing interests include Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, as well as caregiving for loved ones with degenerative conditions. Wes holds a master’s degree in history from Western Washington University, where he also led workshops focused on historical research and longform writing skills.
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Online Nursing Schools in RI: Finding Top Programs

Career opportunities are plentiful in the growing healthcare field for educated and trained nurses in Rhode Island. Explore program spotlights, find the best nursing programs in Rhode Island, and learn what it’s like to be a nurse in the state. We’ll highlight the best schools as well as degree types and what compensation you can expect, all within this comprehensive guide.

The following professionals lent their expertise to this article:

A woman with shoulder-length light brown hair and light skin is looking towards the camera. She is wearing a deep red V-neck shirt and is inside a room with soft natural light. There are framed pictures and some boxes in the background.
Author: Brenda Baron, BA
A woman with shoulder-length light brown hair and light skin is looking towards the camera. She is wearing a deep red V-neck shirt and is inside a room with soft natural light. There are framed pictures and some boxes in the background.
Brenda Baron, BA Arrow up right
Brenda Barron has written features on higher education and healthcare for more than a decade. She specializes in allied health and nursing education, and much of her work focuses on helping students make informed college and career decisions. Brenda holds a BA in English from California State University, Long Beach.
Areas of Expertise
Check HealthcareNursingMedical Assisting
HealthcareNursingMedical Assisting
Editor: Wes Ricketts
A man with short hair and a beard looks upward with a slight smile. The image is in sepia tones, and the background is plain and light-colored.
Wes Ricketts Arrow up right
Wes Ricketts has created award-winning content in higher education and healthcare for nearly 20 years. He founded EduMed in 2018 to give future college students a go-to resource for information on degree programs in nursing and allied health. Wes’s research and writing interests include Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, as well as caregiving for loved ones with degenerative conditions. Wes holds a master’s degree in history from Western Washington University, where he also led workshops focused on historical research and longform writing skills.
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Check EditorialSenior CareDementia Care
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Online nursing programs offer a range of degree levels, from associate and bachelor’s degrees (ADN, BSN) to advanced practice and doctoral programs (MSN, DNP, PhD). While some programs are fully online, most follow a hybrid model, combining virtual coursework with in-person clinical experiences. Online coursework typically includes recorded lectures, interactive modules, and discussion boards, while clinical rotations and labs take place at approved healthcare facilities.

When choosing a program, students should consider state licensing requirements, as nursing boards have varying standards for online education. Accreditation matters a lot. Programs should be accredited by organizations like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) to ensure eligibility for licensure. Prospective students should also assess tuition costs, scheduling flexibility, and required on-site commitments. Researching multiple programs and matching them with career goals and personal circumstances will help determine the best fit.

Online Undergraduate Degree 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 needs, making the program ideal for those starting 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

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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 a great option for aspiring healthcare professionals.

Example: New England Institute of Technology

  • Cost: $18,540
  • Length: 50 weeks
  • 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. This 18-month to two-year program, available at a few nursing schools in Rhode Island, prepares 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 2 years
  • Mode: Hybrid

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

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. This 18-month to two-year program, available at a few nursing schools in Rhode Island, prepares 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 2 years
  • Mode: Hybrid

Accelerated BSN (ABSN)

If you already have a bachelor’s degree in an unrelated field, you may be eligible to add on 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: $10,260/year in state; $24,753 out-of-state
  • Length: 2-3 years
  • Mode: Hybrid

Graduate and Post-Graduate Degree Programs

Graduate nursing programs include the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and Ph.D. 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, one of the traditional MSN programs in Rhode Island may be for you. With advanced coursework 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: $42,920/year
  • 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 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: $18,028/year in state; $33,148/year out-of-state
  • Length: 18 months to 2 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. Specialties range and include nursing managers, 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: $18,028/year in-state; $33,148/year out-of-state
  • Length: 1-2 years
  • Mode: Hybrid

Bridge Degree 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 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 RN to BSN programs. 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 Registered Nurses 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. Ensure the program is accredited for the license you’re pursuing — whether RN or LPN — to meet state requirements. Check for accreditation by ACEN or CCNE to guarantee eligibility for licensure. Then, keep track of your transcripts, as they are required when applying for your nursing license. Do 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.

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.

# School Name Online Enrollment Tuition Students w/ Aid
1
1
42% Online Enrollment
$$ Tuition
98% Students w/ Aid
2
2
21% Online Enrollment
$ Tuition
91% Students w/ Aid
3
3
64% Online Enrollment
$$$$ Tuition
86% Students w/ Aid
4
4
34% Online Enrollment
$$$$ Tuition
100% Students w/ Aid
5
5
15% Online Enrollment
$$$$$ Tuition
100% Students w/ Aid
6
6
31% Online Enrollment
$ Tuition
40% Students w/ Aid

Brenda Baron, BA AUTHOR

Brenda Barron has written features on higher education and healthcare for more than a decade. She specializes in allied health and nursing education, and much of her work focuses on helping students make informed college and career decisions. Brenda holds a BA in English from California State University, Long Beach.

Read More About Brenda Baron

Wes Ricketts EDITOR

Wes Ricketts has created award-winning content in higher education and healthcare for nearly 20 years. He founded EduMed in 2018 to give future college students a go-to resource for information on degree programs in nursing and allied health. Wes’s research and writing interests include Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, as well as caregiving for loved ones with degenerative conditions. Wes holds a master’s degree in history from Western Washington University, where he also led workshops focused on historical research and longform writing skills.

Read More About Wes Ricketts
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