online nursing programs for high school students

The Best Online Nursing Schools and Programs

• Program Overview
• Applying to a Online Nursing Schools Program
• Program Accreditation
• Best Online Nursing Programs and Schools

Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?

While all nursing programs educate and train nurses, online nursing programs serve as an alternative to traditional on-campus degrees. The flexibility of online schools especially appeals to students who may work full time, live far away from college campuses, or possess other responsibilities like caring for families.

Aspiring registered nurses (RNs) can enroll in online associate or bachelor’s degrees in nursing. Experienced nurses can find distance learning programs for master’s degrees. Check out this guide that outlines the best online nursing programs, no matter where you are in your career.

We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best online nursing programs, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.

At a Glance: The Top Online Nursing Schools and Programs

University of florida, university of central florida, atlantis university, florida international university, university of wisconsin-madison.

Learn more about the key factors to consider when choosing a program, or go straight to our full ranking of the best online nursing programs .

How Do Online Nursing Programs Work?

Online nursing programs consist of distance learning courses along with supervised clinical hours.

The curriculum can offer synchronous courses, when students log on for online lectures at specific times. Or they can offer asynchronous courses, which means learners can complete their coursework at their convenience, as long as they meet deadlines.

The specific structure of online nursing programs depends on the school. Universities may offer accelerated, part-time, or full-time degrees. Associate degrees traditionally take two years to complete; bachelor’s degrees last four years. Master’s degrees often take two years to complete. However, this also depends on how many credits students take each term.

Supervised clinical requirements occur on-site, usually at a healthcare facility or on campus. Students typically complete these in the latter part of their programs.

Popular Online Nursing Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Applying to a Online Nursing Program

Different online nursing programs come with different admission requirements.

Students who apply for an associate degree in nursing (ADN) usually need a high school diploma, as do individuals who apply for a bachelor or science in nursing (BSN). Some nurses enroll in RN-to-BSN programs, which allows registered nurses to earn their bachelor’s degrees on an accelerated track. Applicants for these programs need an ADN, nursing licensure, and previous nursing experience.

Candidates for master of science in nursing (MSN) programs should possess a BSN, active RN licensure, and usually previous nursing experience as well.

Admission Materials

Gpa requirement, other requirement, why is online nursing program accreditation important.

Nursing school is an investment of time and money, and students like to know that they’re investing into their education wisely. That’s where accreditation comes in. The nursing accreditation process serves as an independent review of higher education programs, including online nursing programs.

Accreditation boards evaluate academic programs to ensure they deliver students a quality education and prepare them for their careers. Accredited degrees allow students to qualify for nursing licensure, and they help boost job prospects.

Graduate schools typically accept students only with accredited degrees. Because of the importance of accreditation, all of the programs in this ranking hold accreditation.

Learn More About the Best Online Nursing Programs and Schools

• Campus + Online
• In-State $4,477
• Out-of-state $25,694
• Retention Rate 97%
• Acceptance Rate 31%
• Students Enrolled 53,372
• Institution Type Public
• Percent Online Enrollment 92%
• Accreditation Yes
• In-State $4,478
• Out-of-state $19,810
• Retention Rate 92%
• Acceptance Rate 45%
• Students Enrolled 71,881
• Percent Online Enrollment 9%
• In-State $9,840
• Out-of-state $9,840
• Retention Rate 94%
• Acceptance Rate 0%
• Students Enrolled 550
• Institution Type Private
• Percent Online Enrollment 67%
• In-State $4,721
• Out-of-state $16,529
• Retention Rate 91%
• Acceptance Rate 58%
• Students Enrolled 58,836
• Percent Online Enrollment 86%
• In-State $9,273
• Out-of-state $37,161
• Retention Rate 95%
• Acceptance Rate 57%
• Students Enrolled 44,640
• Percent Online Enrollment 93%

How We Rank Schools

We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best online nursing programs, making it easy to find a program that meets your needs. Informed by data from the most reputable sources, including the U.S. Department of Education, our methodology is based on metrics that matter most to nursing students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. This ranking is from 2023.

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Nursing Programs

Is nursing school harder online.

The material that students learn in online nursing programs doesn’t differ from the material they would learn in a traditional, on-campus program. However, some students may find themselves more suited to online courses, while others prefer campus classes.

Online learners must possess discipline and time management skills, since distance learning programs may require more independent work.

Are online nursing degrees worth anything?

As long as an online nursing degree is accredited, it holds the same value as any other nursing program. Make sure that you enroll in an online degree acknowledged by the state where you want to practice. Some state boards only accept licensure from specific schools within that state.

How do I succeed in online nursing school?

Online nursing school doesn’t come with some of the structure of an on-campus program. Some online programs only offer asynchronous courses as well. Because of this, students must possess self-motivation, discipline, and time management skills to succeed, especially if they also work a full- or part-time job.

Explore Other Online Nursing Programs

Best Online Nursing Programs and Degrees

Overwhelmed by the abundance of online nursing programs? This guide can help you navigate the possibilities and narrow down the options.

How Online Nursing Programs Work

An online degree in nursing can position you for an in-demand career. Find information on online learning, nursing careers, and nursing degrees in this guide.

The Best Online BSN Programs

Pursuing a BSN online provides flexibility for aspiring nurses. Explore this guide for a list of the best online BSN programs.

The Best Online Nursing Programs in 2024

• Best Online Nursing Programs
• Online RN to BSN Programs
• Cheap, Fast RN to BSN
• Online MSN Programs
• Cheap, Fast MSN Programs
• Types of Online Nursing Programs
• What to Expect
• Program Cost
• Accreditation

If you’ve ever wanted to go to nursing school, or to further your education as a registered nurse, the time has never been better. Here’s your full guide to the best online nursing programs of 2024, whether you’re looking to become an RN, add on your  BSN , advance your career with a master’s in nursing, or go straight to the top with a DNP . 

Popular Online RN-to-BSN Programs

Enrollment: Nationwide

As a working RN, you need a flexible, transfer-friendly program to help you save time and money as you take the next step in your nursing career. In our CCNE-accredited4 RN to BSN program, you can transfer in up to 134 credits—which is nearly 75% of program requirements. Your transfer credits can be reviewed in one business day (on average).

Enrollment: FL

WGU's award-winning online programs are created to help you succeed while graduating faster and with less debt. WGU is a CCNE accredited, nonprofit university offering nursing bachelor's and master's degrees.

• RN to BSN - Global Studies

Best Online Nursing Programs 2024

There are so many types of online nursing degrees and programs it can be overwhelming to choose the one for you. To help you with this decision, we've compiled some of the top online nursing programs in 2024. This list takes numerous factors into consideration including:

• Clinical hour requirements
• Clinical placement assistance
• Graduation rate
• Program length
• Program ranking
• Student-faculty ratio
• Total credit hours

Find Nursing Programs

Top online rn-to-bsn programs.

If you have your ADN and are looking to go back to school to earn your BSN, check out these  top online RN-to-BSN programs :

1. The University of Oklahoma

This online bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program is flexible for working nurses but requires two Saturday in-person orientation dates per year. It also has optional monthly on-campus sessions. Students can complete the program in as little as nine months, but it can be completed part-time. 

• Application Deadline: April 1st and October 15th 
• Contact Phone Number: (405) 271-2402
• Email Information: [email protected]

2. University of Central Florida 

This online RN to BSN program consists of 30 credit hours, which can be completed in three semesters at a full-time pace or as slowly as ten semesters or five years. Students can also take up to nine credit hours of graduate-level work to apply toward an MSN degree. 

• Contact Phone Number: (855) 903-8576
• Email Information: [email protected]

3. Capella University

Designed by nurses, this for-profit university program is designed in 10-week courses. Capella University boasts an impressive graduation rate and generous transfer credit allowance from other nursing programs.

Students can also apply to the Accelerated Master’s Pathway (AMP) option. This allows you to take master's-level courses that apply toward your BSN. Once applied and accepted to the MSN program, those master’s courses can be applied toward the degree, potentially saving time and money.

• Application Deadline: Rolling Admission
• Contact Phone Number: (877) 884-0733
• Email Information: [email protected]

4. Arizona State University

In this program, students take 10 classes that each last 7.5 weeks. Current RNs can finish this program in approximately 15 to 18 months. The program is 39 credits, longer than most other online programs, but students take classes that are considered more innovative than other traditional BSN programs. 

• Contact Phone Number: (866) 277-6589 
• Email Information: [email protected] 

>> Explore Arizona State's Online RN-BSN Program*

5. Herzing University

This program is unique because it offers rolling admission, allowing students to apply whenever is most convenient. It also allows students to start the program at their own pace.

Classes are 8 weeks long, and the degree can be finished in as little as 12 months. Students can take master's degree classes while completing the online BSN degree, saving time and money.

• Contact Phone Number: (800) 596-0724

>> Explore Herzing's Online RN-BSN Program*

Top Cheap, Fast Online RN-to-BSN Programs

If you want to earn your BSN as quickly as possible, for as little money as possible, check out these top 5  fast & affordable online RN-to-BSN programs :

1.  University of Central Florida

Ranked as one of the Best Online Programs by U.S. News and World Report, UCF’s program educates the most newly licensed BSN programs in the state. Programs are convenient, flexible, and more affordable than most other programs in the state and country. 

• Admissions: Applications are accepted three times a year, with summer, fall, or spring start dates.
• Phone Number: 407-823-2744
• Email Address: [email protected]

2. University of Wyoming

Resident: $5,970, Non-Resident: $10,770

The University of Wyoming offers an online, self-paced RN-to-BSN completion program with competitive rates. Courses are eight weeks and students can finish at their own rate.

• Admissions: Applications are accepted in the fall and spring of each calendar year.
• Phone Number: (307) 766-6574
• Email Address: [email protected]

3. Appalachian State University

Appalachian’s RN to BSN program provides a flexible, affordable, and practical pathway for working RNs to complete 100 percent of their coursework online and position themselves for advancement in a growing field. The RN to BSN program requires 30 credit hours and is offered part-time.

• Admissions: August 1st 
• Phone Number: (828) 262-7877
• Email Address: [email protected]

4. University of Texas Arlington

The RN to BSN program at UTA can be completed in 9 months, the fastest RN to BSN program in Texas and one of the fastest online programs in the country. There are multiple start dates throughout the year, allowing working professionals to start at a convenient time. 

• Admissions: Rolling
• Contact Phone Number: 866-489-2810

>> Explore University of Texas Arlington's Online RN-BSN Programs*

5. Lasalle University

$450 per credit hour  

The RN to BSN program at Lasalle is quick and efficient. Students can complete the program in 12 months, but some take as long as 24 months.

Because it is an online program, students must ensure that they can enroll due to state authorization requirements. Luckily, only students living in California are not eligible at this time. 

• Fall 1 - August 12th
• Fall 2 - September 30th
• Spring 2 - February 19th
• Summer 1 - May 6th
• Summer 2 - June 24th
• Phone Number: (844) 466-5587
• Email Address: [email protected]

Top Online MSN Programs

Already have your BSN, or are you ready to jump straight into an MSN program? Here are the top 5 online MSN programs of 2024 : 

1.  Fort Hays State University

Fort Hays State University offers two MSN degree options: Nurse Administration and Nursing Education. The program requires clinical practicum experiences; therefore, students must ensure they have clinical sites, as the school does not coordinate placements.

• Summer: February 1st
• Fall: July 1st
• Spring: September 1st 
• Phone Number: (785) 628-4256
• Email Address: [email protected]

2.  Johns Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins offers a variety of MSN online programs, including tracks for an MSN in Healthcare Organizational Leadership or MSN in Healthcare Organizational Leadership/MBA.

• Phone Number: (410) 955-4766  
• Email Address: [email protected]

3.  Simmons College

Simmons offers two online MSN degree options: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Simmons assists with clinical placements, which is a huge draw. The programs require a total of 48 credit hours.

The Simmons MSN programs are incredibly flexible, and there are options to work with any schedule. Full-time programs take 24 months, and part-time programs take 28 months. Students can also choose an extended program that stretches the program over 32 months.

• Application Deadline: Rolling 
• Phone Number: (617) 521-2605 
• Email Address: [email protected]

4.  The University of Alabama

The University of Alabama offers several online MSN options:

• MSN in Nurse Administration
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Dual Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner

Postgraduate certificate programs with Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner options are also available.

• Fall: March 1st
• Spring: August 1st
• Summer: December 1st
• Phone Number: (800) 467-0227
• Email Address:  [email protected]

5. Duke University

Duke University currently offers eight online MSN programs that utilize the latest evidence-based practices and high-fidelity simulation labs to educate students. Additionally, students are guaranteed clinical placement at one of the 2,000 clinical sites nationwide.

Programs include Adult-Gerontology NP—Acute Care and Primary Care, Family NP, Neonatal NP, Pediatric NP—Acute Care and Primary Care, Psychiatric Mental Health NP, and Women’s Health NP. 

Students are required to come to campus at least once every semester for two- to five-day intensives for face-to-face interactions, simulation, and hands-on activities. 

• Fall: December 1st
• Spring: May 1st
• Phone Number: (877) 415-3853
• Email Address: [email protected]

Popular Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs

GCU's College of Nursing and Health Care Professions has a nearly 35-year tradition of preparing students to fill evolving healthcare roles as highly qualified professionals. GCU offers a full spectrum of nursing degrees, from a pre-licensure BSN degree to a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program.

• MSN - Family NP
• MSN - Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP
• MSN - Nursing Education
• MSN - Health Informatics
• MSN - Public Health Nursing
• MSN - Health Care Quality & Patient Safety
• MBA & MSN - Nursing Leadership in Health Care Systems
• See more GCU nursing programs
• BSN-to-MSN - Family NP
• BSN-to-MSN - Psychiatric Mental Health NP
• BSN-to-MSN - Nursing Education
• RN-to-MSN - Nursing Education
• RN-to-MSN - Nursing Leadership & Management
• BSN-to-MSN - Nurse Admin
• BSN-to-MSN - Nurse Educator
• BSN-to-MSN - Nursing Informatics
• BSN-to-MSN - Community Health
• BSN-to-MSN - Health Policy
• MSN - Pediatric NP - Primary Care
• MSN - Adult-Gerontology NP - Primary Care
• MSN - Psychiatric-Mental Health NP
• MSN - Nursing Leadership & Admin
• MSN - Healthcare Tech, Simulation & Informatics
• See more Rasmussen nursing programs

Top Cheap, Fast Online MSN Programs

If cost and program length are your major concerns when looking for an online MSN program, check out these  fast & affordable online MSN programs :

1.   Fort Hays State University

Fort Hays State University offers two MSN degrees: Nurse Administration and Nursing Education. Fort Hays works with clinical sites across the country to accommodate out-of-state students and notes that if an acceptable site can not be found in your area, a site will be made available to you on their campus. The program does not accept students from Tennessee, Utah, Alabama, or Washington based on licensing restrictions.

• Total approximate cost of the program: $11,500.20 (for 36 credits)
• Application Deadline: February 1 for the summer, July 1 for the fall semester, and October 1 for the spring semester
• Contact Information: 785-628-4256

2. The University of Alabama  

The University of Alabama offers four specialized online MSN concentrations

The programs are available 100% online, with clinical sites chosen by you (although they are subject to approval by the College of Nursing) and two on-campus sessions that must be completed throughout the study. 

• MSN Nurse Administration (33 credits): $14,520
• MSN NP (45 credits): $19,800
• MSN Dual FNP and PMHNP (66 credits): $29,040
• MSN concentrations: 
• Nurse Administrator (1-2 years)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (2-3 years)
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (2-3 years), and 
• Dual Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner (3 years)
• Contact Information: 205-348-6639

3. University of Texas-Tyler

Texas Resident: $990, Non-Texas Resident: $1,488

Also boasting a low per-credit tuition cost and a low credit requirement for degree completion, the University of Texas-Tyler has multiple MSN tracks, which include:

• Business Administration
• Nurse Administration
• Nurse Education
• Informatics, Quality, & Safety
• Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Anyone enrolling in the NP program must have an RN license in Texas as all clinical hours are required to be completed in Texas. The other degree tracks, however, are completely done online.

• Non-clinical MSN (36 credits): $35,640
• Nurse Practitioner (47 credits): $46,530
• MSN-MBA (63 credits): $62,370
• Contact Information: 903-566-7457

4. Briar Cliff University

Briar Cliff is one of the cheapest online MSN-NP programs. It offers a variety of advanced track specialties, and students can choose to specialize as Family Nurse Practitioners, Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioners, or Psychiatric Mental Health Care Practitioners. 

Additional requirements to enroll include having an RN license valid in Iowa and the ability to demonstrate with a letter from your employer that you have worked at least 2,000 hours as an RN within the last two years to be eligible to apply.

• Total cost of program: $27,438 to $29,052 
• Contact Information: 800-662-3303 or 712-279-5200

5. University of Arizona

The University of Arizona offers one of the fastest available MSN programs, allowing you to earn an MSN in Nursing Clinical Systems Leadership completely online in as little as 13 months. The program offers two pathways:

• RN-MS (for students with a BSN), completable in as few as 13 months
• RN-MSN (for students with an ADN), completable in as few as 24 months

This program has the advantage of being made up of 7 week-long courses, so admission rotates every five months, allowing students three opportunities per year to enroll. To be eligible for admission, you must have a BSN or ADN and have passed a 3-credit, college-level statistics class within the last five years, test out, or take the class at the start of the program.

• RN to MS, BSN Track: $21,032
• RN to MS, ADN Track: $28,828
• Contact Information: 520-621-0898 or [email protected]

>> Show Me Online MSN Programs

Types of Online Nursing Programs 

Nearly every type of nursing degree can be completed online. However, any type of degree that requires clinical work, such as your initial RN or an NP degree, will require a combination of both online work and in-person clinical work. 

Non-clinical degrees, however, such as MSN administration degrees, can be completed entirely online. Here’s a closer look at each type of nursing degree program you can choose. 

LPN to RN Bridge Programs

LPN to RN bridge programs take you from an LPN to RN. After completing the coursework, you must pass your nursing boards to earn your RN license in your state. If you have your LPN, you can choose to get your RN with an associate’s degree or enter a bridge LPN-BSN program. An LPN-RN with an associate’s degree will take about two years; an LPN-BSN-RN program will take around three to four. 

RN to BSN Bridge Programs

An RN to a BSN program is appropriate for anyone who has already earned their associate’s degree to become an RN and wants to add a bachelor’s degree to their resume. RN-BSN programs are one of the most popular online programs available and can be completed entirely online, since you have already done the clinical nursing portion. 

Accelerated BSN Programs

If you have a bachelor’s degree in another non-nursing field, you are eligible to apply for an accelerated BSN program. You can use an accelerated BSN program to go straight from a non-medical field and earn your RN and BSN all at once, in as little as 12 to 18 months. And although it’s rarer, if you happen to have both your RN and your bachelor’s in another degree, you can also use the accelerated BSN program to earn your BSN. 

>> Show Me Online RN-to-BSN Programs

Direct-entry MSN Programs

Similar to accelerated BSN programs, direct-entry MSN programs let anyone with a bachelor’s degree in another field go straight into earning their RN and MSN all at once. And incredibly, it’s not that much longer of a program than just getting your BSN. A direct-entry MSN program can also be completed in as little as 18 months . Most of these programs don’t actually confer a BSN onto you; instead, you just earn your MSN. 

RN to MSN Programs

If you already have your RN and want your MSN, you can go straight into an online MSN program . You have two options with an RN-MSN program : you can go the accelerated route and go straight from your RN to earning your MSN, skipping right over the bachelor’s part (so you’ll end the program with just your MSN). Or, if you want the whole thing, you can earn your RN-BSN and  master’s degree. 

The accelerated RN to MSN will be faster, requiring a little less coursework. In most cases, the RN-MSN program prepares you for a more non-clinical role, such as in administration, unlike a Master’s degree as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), which we describe in the next section. 

BSN to MSN Programs

If you’re already the proud owner of a BSN and would like to advance on to earning your Master’s of Science in Nursing , you’re in luck: there are a ton of online options for furthering your career. 

If you want a master’s in a clinical role – to become a Nurse Practitioner or a CRNA , for example – your program will be a combination of online work and in-person clinicals. However, the advantage of an online program is that many times, the school will work with you to arrange clinicals locally to your area as opposed to you traveling to on-site locations only near the school. 

Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs

Many types of online NP programs will prepare you to become a Family Nurse Practitioner, FNP. But there are also specialized NP programs that can prepare you for a specific type of NP, such as a Women’s Health NP or a Geriatric Care NP . In general, the program lengths will be similar, but a specialty program may take a little longer. 

Online NP programs typically take 2-3 years full-time and include online coursework and in-person clinical work. They can be completed part-time as well, although some schools will have caps on how long you can take to finish the program.

>> Show Me Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) & Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) Programs

A DNAP program will take three full years, and many schools ask students to only plan on being able to work full-time for one year of those, with the plan to quit employment for the last two intensive years. 

Speaking of your DNP, there are also a few pathways you can take to earn it online. Depending on where you’re at in your educational pathway, you can choose from the following  online DNP programs :

• RN-DNP: about 4 years in length (full-time)
• BSN-DNP: about 2-4 years in length
• MSN to DNP: about 1-2 years

​​ >> Show Me DNP Programs

Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) Programs

A CNM is an RN who earns a master’s degree in midwifery to care for women during their reproductive years and beyond. A CNM degree will take about two years and includes clinical work that will not be online. 

Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Programs

A CNS is similar to an NP but will focus on a clinical specialty at the bedside. NPs often deliver primary care, while a CNS will focus on a hospital specialty in order to deliver specialized care at the bedside. 

To become a CNS, you will follow a similar path as an NP: enroll in a hybrid online master's in nursing program and choose your CNS specialization. CNS can prescribe medications in a majority of states in the U.S. 

Nurse Educator Programs

A nurse educator is someone who works in an educator role, typically educating other nurses or future nurses. They are the people who will communicate updates to nurses and other healthcare staff at a hospital level, or become a teacher at a university or college to prepare the next generation of nurses. 

Most professor roles require a minimum of a master’s degree, but many nurse educators choose to also earn their DNP as well. These degrees can be completed entirely online. 

>> Show Me Online Nurse Educator Programs

Nurse Administrator Programs

A nurse administrator will work as a manager at a healthcare facility and can choose an MSN degree that is geared towards administration. Typically, these are non-clinical degrees and can be completed entirely online. 

Healthcare Administration Programs

If your goal is to work in healthcare administration , there are other routes you can take outside of just earning your MSN as well. For instance, depending on your goals, you can choose a master’s degree in a related health field or a general master’s degree in business or administration. Some of the common master’s degrees that an RN might choose for a career in healthcare administration include: 

• Masters in Health Administration (MHA)
• Masters in Business Administration (MBA)
• MSN/MBA dual degree program --this is a joint program that takes just about one year longer than a regular MSN program but will confer two Master’s degrees, both an MBA and MSN.
• Masters in Public Health (MPH)

>> Show Me Online Healthcare Administration Programs

What to Expect in an Online Nursing Program 

Online nursing programs operate in different formats. Some schools may feature live instruction from a teacher that you watch virtually or a later, recorded version, while others may use a virtual classroom with self-paced instructional videos and educational materials like slideshows for presentations that you work through on your own. 

All online nursing school programs will require written work from you in the form of research papers, essays, and online discussion boards to collaborate with your classmates. If your program requires any on-campus days, those will be clearly outlined before you begin. For instance, some online programs require an “immersion” weekend at the beginning of the semester or even halfway through. 

Some programs--like a BSN or a non-clinical MSN or an MPH--can be completed 100% online. Any nursing program that requires clinicals, practicums, or internships, however, will require in-person time as well. 

Depending on your school’s policy, these can be arranged locally for you, or may be required at hospitals or facilities the school already has an arrangement with. It’s important to know the school’s policy for in-person requirements, especially if you are not local to the school. 

Online Nursing Program Cost

The cost of an online nursing program can obviously vary quite a bit, depending on whether you’re choosing an RN-ADN program or heading for a more expensive degree, like a DNP. 

The final cost will also depend on what type of financial aid package you receive, if you can secure any scholarships, and if you have any other type of tuition assistance (for instance, such as if your employer offers any help paying for your degree.)

In general, the costs for online nursing programs are: 

• RN-ADN: $10,000 - $20,000
• RN-BSN: $10,000 - $80,000
• MSN: $30,000 - $65,000
• DNP: bridge programs can cost as little as $17,000, but DNP programs could go as high as several hundred thousand dollars (really)

Online Nursing Program Accreditation

When choosing an online nursing program, the single most important thing you need to do is ensure that the program you pick is accredited . Especially with online programs, accreditation is necessary to ensure that the program you enroll in meets all the requirements you need to graduate and pass any licensing exams you will need. 

Without accreditation , there is no standard that the program has to meet, which means that the education you receive could be subpar and equally as troublesome, not actually giving you what you need to pass an exam at the end. Additionally, if you are using financial aid to attend school, you might not be able to use your entire financial aid package unless you attend an accredited school, so it’s very important. 

You’ll want to look for schools that have at least one of the following accreditations, depending on the specialty you’re choosing:

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
• The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
• The Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA)
• The American College of Nurse-Midwives Division of Accreditation (ACNM)

Overall, if you are interested in pursuing any aspect of nursing, from your RN all the way up to your DNP, know that a large majority of your nursing degree can be completed totally online. And depending on what degree you pick, the entire program can be done 100% online. 

Nursing school has never been easier to complete online, and this nation needs nurses more than ever, so get started today by reaching out to an accredited school to see what type of online nursing programs they offer. 

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Chaunie Brusie , BSN, RN is a nurse-turned-writer with experience in critical care, long-term care, and labor and delivery. Her work has appeared everywhere from Glamor to The New York Times to The Washington Post. Chaunie lives with her husband and five kids in the middle of a hay field in Michigan and you can find more of her work here . 

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Accredited Online Nursing Programs

Explore and compare a list of accredited schools to enroll in your next program.

A popular career path, nursing is in higher demand than ever. If you’d like to jump right into the field, an online bachelor’s degree offers a flexible and convenient route to becoming a registered nurse (RN). Some of the best nursing schools offer online nursing degrees.

Online nursing schools also allow you to enroll in the most affordable school without having to relocate. Explore our picks for the best accredited online nursing degrees and get tips to jumpstart your nursing career today.

Did You Know…

• Nursing is one of the most popular jobs in the U.S. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) , in May 2023 there were more than 3.1 million registered nurses (RN) in the United States.
• More than half of all BSN completion programs let you take at least part of your nursing program online.
• The ongoing nursing shortage means there will continue to be high demand for RNs.
• Nursing dates all the way back to the Roman Empire.

Featured Online RN-to-BSN Programs

Types of nursing degrees and specializations.

Whatever education level you have or would like to attain, you can find a nursing career to match. Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) need only a high school diploma or GED certificate and successful completion of a training course, while some levels of advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) careers require a doctorate in nursing. You can explore accredited online nursing degrees for many of these options, in addition to on-campus programs.

Licensed Nurse Practitioner

Family nurse practitioner, mental health nursing, critical care nursing, medical-surgical nursing, clinical nurse specialist.

Explore different online nursing degree levels and credentials and how to earn them. You just might find your next career step!

Certified Nursing Assistant

Working as a certified nursing assistant (CNA), can be a solid choice for somebody who wants to start working and earning money as soon as possible, or who isn’t sure about a career in nursing. Many community colleges, some high schools, and even some hospitals and healthcare systems offer CNA courses.

The exact number of hours in these programs varies by state, but is usually approximately 150 hours. CNAs primarily assist patients with tasks such as dressing, eating, and bathing under the supervision of an RN.

Once you complete the course, you must pass the certification examination to work as a CNA. While the pay is not competitive with other nursing jobs, becoming a CNA can be a very low-cost introduction to a career in nursing.

Licensed Practical Nurse

Becoming a licensed practical nurse (LPN), is an enticing option for students interested in a quick program that allows them to start working in healthcare ASAP at a step up from a CNA role . LPNs typically do not require a degree for licensure, just a certificate/diploma that takes about a year to complete. After finishing the program, you can take the NCLEX-PN and earn your LPN license

Given the current nursing shortage, LPNs are in high demand. Becoming an LPN can be a low-cost and short-term way to make a career pivot.

While LPNs and RNs share many of the same responsibilities, RNs have a larger scope of practice and typically enjoy higher salaries and more leadership opportunities than LPNs. As a result, you may be interested in applying to on-campus or online LPN-to-RN programs .

Registered Nurse

There are two pathways to becoming an RN — earning an ADN or BSN . Both nursing degree levels prepare you to take the NCLEX-RN and earn an RN license, but the BSN is more valuable if you want a higher-level position or want to earn an MSN later in your career.

RNs conduct medical testing, provide treatment, educate patients, and work with APRNs or a physicians to create and carry out care plans. RNs work not only in healthcare settings, but also in facilities such as military bases, prisons, and nonprofits.

RNs are in tremendous demand because of the current nursing shortage and the aging Baby Boomer population. A nursing degree and RN license can be a very fruitful investment in your career.

An associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) is the shorter route to a career as an RN, usually taking between two to three years to complete. While a high school diploma or GED certificate is required for this program, admission requirements tend to be less strict than BSN programs.

After completing your ADN, taking the NCLEX-RN examination, and earning a nursing license, you can become an registered nurse (RN). However, many employers prefer a BSN and view the BSN as the minimum nursing degree level for adequate career preparation — so make sure to do your research before starting a program.

A bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) typically takes four years to earn, though it may take less if you have other nursing credentials or transferable college credits. You must have a high school diploma or GED certificate; at least some science and math classes; and, depending on how competitive the program is, a GPA of 3.0 or higher.

Once you have a BSN through a nursing program online or on-campus program, you are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN examination, earn a nursing license, and start working as an entry-level registered nurse (RN).

While you can pursue RN credentialing with an associate degree in nursing (ADN), many employers view a BSN as the minimum nursing degree level for adequate career preparation.

If you want higher pay or more professional autonomy, an advanced nursing degree level, like a master of science in nursing (MSN) can prepare you to become a nurse practitioner or an APRN. Depending on your state regulations , you may even be able to practice independently.

Most MSN programs take 2-3 years to complete and require a BSN and a 3.0 GPA. Some colleges have an RN-to-MSN bridge program that can be an accelerated option for nurses with an ADN.

An MSN is an excellent option for nurses who want to advance financially, have more career independence, or both.

Nurse practitioners (NPs) are nurses who have earned an MSN or doctor of nursing practice (DNP) from an accredited on-campus or online nursing school and passed the certification examination for their specialty.

Unlike medical school, MSN programs focus on just one population or specialty, such as family care or acute pediatric care. An NP license authorizes you only to practice in that specialty or population. If your state offers full practice authority, you can even practice independently as an NP.

NP programs are either MSN or DNP programs, though some schools offer certification options that allow existing NPs to change specialties without having to repeat a full program from scratch.

Family practice is the most common NP specialty. Family nurse practitioners (FNPs) are licensed to act as primary care providers. These professionals can order medical tests, diagnose conditions, and prescribe treatment.

FNPs work in a number of settings, including hospitals and health systems, independent practices, and other healthcare settings. Depending on the state and workplace, they may work independently or under the supervision of a physician. They may also supervise RNs and other nursing staff.

A typical MSN FNP program takes 2-3 years to complete and includes extensive fieldwork in family practice settings. Some programs offer hybrid or online options, though you may need to find your own fieldwork placement for online nursing degrees.

Demand for mental health nursing is growing in most parts of the country, especially in areas affected by the opioid crisis. You can start your career in mental health nursing by taking an entry-level RN job in an institution that offers mental health care. As you advance in your career, however, you may want to consider becoming an APRN or earning certification.

Mental health nurses may collaborate with other mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists or counselors.

Mental health nursing, like public health nursing, is a master’s or certification program rather than a BSN program. RNs or APRNs can work in mental health nursing.

Critical care nurses care for patients with unstable health from illness or injuries. They are sometimes also called intensive care unit (ICU) nurses. Depending on the hospital, they may work in neonatal , pediatric , or adult ICU settings.

Like other nursing specialties, RN programs online or on-campus cover the basics of critical care nursing. Nurses seeking to specialize can take continuing education courses and pursue certification. This field calls for advanced collaboration skills and quick thinking in crises.

Most critical care nurses learn on the job and pursue continuing education to become certified in critical care or in critical care specialty topics.

Medical-surgical nurses provide patient care before and after surgical procedures. The majority of this care takes place in hospital inpatient settings, but it can also occur in other settings, such as a plastic surgery office or in a patient’s home during recovery. The role also involved patient or family education, such as teaching patients or those helping them how to treat wounds and how to look for signs of infection.

There is no degree program for medical-surgical nurses. Instead, medical-surgical nurses can pursue certification in medical-surgical nursing through continuing education, work experience, and passing certifying board examinations.

Clinical nurse specialists (CNS) are APRNs who specialize in a particular population and have passed the CNS certification examination in their specialty field. While they may engage in hands-on patient care, their primary focus is acting as a leader and educator.

They focus on identifying best practices and ensuring hospital staff knows how to use them through education, developing procedures, or other leadership tools.

To become a CNS, you must earn an MSN, pass the certification examination, and apply for a state CNS license.

How Important Is Accreditation for Online Nursing Schools?

Accreditation is especially important for online nursing degrees. Your nursing program is a major step in qualifying for a nursing license. If your program is unaccredited, you may be unable to apply for licensure.

An online degree will be just as respected as a traditional degree, so long as it’s from an accredited nursing program .

Here are the two major programmatic accreditors to look for as you compare nursing degrees:

• Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Nursing Degrees

Can i earn a nursing degree completely online.

Yes, you can earn a nursing degree 100% online. In fact, many of the best nursing schools offer fully online degrees. This applies to associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees in nursing.

Students complete coursework online through a distance learning platform. You’ll then need to fulfill clinical requirements locally and in person.

Can you become a nurse without a degree?

Yes, you can become a nurse without a college degree. Some nurses choose to start their career with a registered nursing diploma that takes a year rather than a degree that takes two to four years. These diploma programs provide you with a foundation in biology and social sciences, in addition to clinical experience with patients.

However, registered nurse diplomas are not as common or as popular as they used to be, and they don’t prepare you for a career in registered nursing as well as an ADN or BSN would. Only 43 accredited nursing diplomas exist in the U.S. and only about 2000 students who took the NCLEX-RN in 2023 graduated from a diploma program. Additionally, some diploma programs have NCLEX-RN pass rates less than 60%.

Alternatively, you can become a licensed practical nurse (LPN) with a diploma. These programs normally take about a year.

How long does it take to become an RN?

In general, it takes 2-4 years to become an RN. The specific timeline for becoming an RN will depend on the educational path you take, whether that’s an ADN (two years) or a BSN (four years).

What courses will you take in a registered nursing program?

Typically, an RN program will include courses like basic nursing care, family health assessment, and nursing leadership. You’ll also learn about physiology, psychology, microbiology, and pharmacology.

What type of nurse is most in demand?

Nurse practitioners are not only the most in-demand nurses but also one of the fastest-growing job in the U.S . The BLS projects a 45% growth rate for nurse practitioners between 2022 and 2032. Nurse practitioners earn a median annual salary of $126,260 as of May 2023. To become a nurse practitioner, you’ll need a master’s degree in nursing.

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Online Nursing Degrees

Southern New Hampshire University answered the call in 1995 to begin making higher education more accessible to working adults. And in the early 2010s, it did the same for nursing education.

A pioneer in innovative online education, our programs meet the demands of the nursing profession and address the needs for prepared nurses in such areas as:

• Administration
• Quality improvement
• Patient care
• Clinical leadership
• Evidence-based practice
• Global health
• Equitable care

Our online nursing programs, developed by doctoral-prepared nursing faculty, feature curricula based on new standards for the 21st-century healthcare industry as defined in the Institute of Medicine report ''The Future of Nursing: Leading Change, Advancing Health.''

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Heroes Behind the Scrubs: SNHU Nurse Leaders Share Their Stories

Nurse leaders at Southern New Hampshire University participated in a roundtable discussion about the role nurses play in transforming healthcare. With 7% job growth projected through 2029 - that's over 221,000 registered nurse roles that could be filled - there's quite the demand to change the lives of others. 1 And yours, as well.

Our Nursing Philosophy

At Southern New Hampshire University, we view the students in our online nursing programs as respected colleagues who come to the learning environment with their own unique views of the world and nursing.

Students are valued for the contributions they bring to the learning environment and are appreciated for their diverse values and beliefs. Students are viewed as both learners and learning resources.

Mission of the Department of Nursing

The mission of the Department of Nursing programs flows from the mission and vision of Southern New Hampshire University.

Our mission is to empower students to be successful nurse leaders, prepared to promote a culture of health within a diverse society and responsive to meet the challenges of an ever-evolving healthcare system. This mission is fulfilled through innovative programs responsive to the needs of adult learners in an online environment.

The program provides the nursing professional with the knowledge, attitude, skills and behaviors to lead patient-centered collaborative healthcare. Graduates are prepared to apply theory-guided, culturally competent, evidence-based professional nursing practices to improve the well-being of diverse populations within complex healthcare systems at the local, national and international levels.

Nursing Curriculum Conceptual Framework

• Builds upon prior nursing knowledge to provide a broad knowledge base for evidence-based, clinically competent, professional practice in the care of individuals, groups, families, communities and populations
• Prepares nursing leaders in professional roles and attributes
• Develops nurses into empowered change agents ready for successful integration into the dynamic, complex healthcare system within a global context

CCSNH Nursing Partnership

Our nursing partnerships include a seamless academic pathway for transferring community college credits , a tuition discount and financial aid.

If you are a graduate of a New Hampshire community college nursing program interested in learning more about the online BSN  and online MSN programs  or the accelerated RN to MSN , contact an SNHU admission counselor for more information.

CCNE Accredited Nursing Program

The baccalaureate degree program in nursing and the master’s degree program in nursing at Southern New Hampshire University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education , 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202.887.6791.

ANCC Accredited Provider

At Southern New Hampshire University, we’re committed to your success — even beyond graduation. That’s why we’re committed to delivering accredited continuing education for nurses and healthcare professionals. From one-hour webinars to multi-day conferences and more, these opportunities are built to help you continue to meet the needs of communities across the globe.

Visit our SNHU continuing education page to learn more.

Southern New Hampshire University is accredited as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's (ANCC) Commission on Accreditation.

HEaRT Experiential Learning

Looking to gain professional healthcare experience, even before you graduate? Do it with HEaRT.

Specially designed for learners in healthcare and nursing, HEaRT (Higher Education and Real World Training)  is a powerful experiential learning opportunity at SNHU. These online, asynchronous, voluntary experiences help connect students with employers to help solve real-world business problems – so you can be ready to make an impact in your field.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Online Nursing Programs & Schools

Online lpn/lvn diploma, online adn degree, online bsn degree, online msn degree, online aprn programs, frequently asked questions about online nursing programs.

Online nursing programs have become increasingly available to students all over the country. If you are new to distance learning, or are curious about how online nursing programs work, read on to find out everything you need to know.

The demand for registered nurses in today's healthcare environment is huge and growing quickly! The need for more and more compassionate individuals to become registered nurses (RN) has never been greater.

To meet this demand many schools have opened up their traditional 2 and 4-year degree programs to other types. These include online and accelerated nursing programs and are available for many different nursing degrees.

The Licensed Practical Nurse/Licensed Vocational Nurse ( LPN/LVN ), Associate's Degree in Nursing ( ADN ), Bachelor's of Science in Nursing ( BSN ), and Master's of Science in Nursing ( MSN ) degrees are available in various program structures. For every student a convenient and accessible program is available!

To become a registered nurse without any nursing experience the entry-level student will need to complete one of the following:

• LPN/LVN Diploma

Direct Entry MSN

RELATED : The 6 Most Important Considerations in Choosing an Online Nursing Program

The Licensed Practical Nurse/Licensed Vocational Nurse (LPN/LVN) diploma track is becoming outdated but is a great stepping stone to becoming an RN . This is considered the first year of nursing school and graduates become licensed by the state after passing the NCLEX-PN and are able to begin working as a nurse. This can usually be completed in about a year. Vocational schools and community colleges offer these programs. PLEASE NOTE: There are no available “online” LPN/LVN programs.  Need more insight into the difference in career profiles? Check out our LPN vs RN overview.

LPN/LVN programs are a good way for students to quickly get started in nursing. As they have less interest, they have short if any wait lists compared to RN programs.

For those who want to advance beyond an LPN, many online LPN to RN bridge programs are available and can be completed in about a year. Students may still need to complete in-person clinicals. Such programs award an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN), the minimum requirement to take the NCLEX-RN. Passing this exam allows for licensure as a registered nurse.

NOTE : There are a few CNA to RN programs  and Medical Assistant to RN programs but these programs traditionally are mostly “test out” programs that allow for CNAs to take the NCLEX-RN for certification.

The Associate’s Degree in Nursing ( ADN)  is the shortest way possible to become a state-licensed RN. It prepares students for the  NCLEX-RN exam , which they must pass to work as a licensed RN. ADN students complete prerequisites and volunteer hours in a healthcare setting to be accepted into a program. Many ADN programs do not require any healthcare experience. It is important to research the specific requirements of each school before applying.

Vocational schools and community colleges offer ADN programs, which can be completed in 2 years or less. Some may allow the students to work, especially if evening classes are offered, while others do not encourage it. ADN programs may have some online theory courses, but in-person learning is still the standard due to the clinical requirements. Clinical hours are “real world” experiences where students gain hands-on knowledge in the healthcare setting with an instructor or preceptor.

After graduation, RNs can choose from a number of online RN to BSN bridge programs to achieve higher education goals.

ADN-educated RNs can begin working in many types of healthcare facilities, including:

• Long-Term Care Facilities
• Skilled Nursing facilities
• Physicians’ Offices

Those who have worked as a paramedic or EMT might consider a  paramedic to RN bridge program .

The Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing degree ( BSN ) is offered as a traditional 4-year degree, as an RN to BSN bridge program, or as a direct entry program for those with a bachelor's in a non-nursing area. The BSN is available in online, in-person or hybrid formats to meet students learning preferences.

All of these degrees will allow the nurse to work as a bedside RN, a role that is the cornerstone of nursing. It is often required experience for nurses who seek a non-bedside role in healthcare, such as  healthcare informatics  or  research . Many RNs pursue the BSN to earn a higher salary, change roles, or because their employer requires it.

The Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing degree ( BSN ) is offered as a traditional 4-year degree, as an RN to BSN bridge program, or as a direct entry program for those with a bachelor's in a non-nursing area. The BSN is available in online, in-person, or hybrid formats to meet students learning preferences.

For RNs, many online bridge programs are available from both online and brick-and-mortar universities. They typically have short wait lists and include:

• Traditional in-classroom

Traditional BSN Degree

The traditional BSN degree is available through universities and often includes prerequisites. The downsides to these four-year programs are the long waiting lists and high demand. They are arguably more competitive than bridge programs and take longer to finish.

Accelerated BSN Programs

Students who hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing area can earn a BSN through a specialty bridge program. This track is typically offered as an accelerated, in-person option requiring clinical hours. It includes intensive courses, takes 18-24 months to complete, and often has a shorter wait list than traditional BSN programs.

These accelerated programs may have a minimum 3.0 GPA and a requirement of “hands-on” healthcare volunteer hours.

Since the same amount of clinical hours are required for these bridge programs, they may be scheduled at a demanding pace. As such, it can be challenging to balance family responsibilities; working full-time is not suggested. However, for ambitious students who are skilled at setting priorities, the reward is becoming an RN quickly!

Learn more about  accelerated BSN programs .

The RN to BSN bridge program is a fast and convenient way for nurses to earn a BSN. Full-time employment is often required to satisfy practicum requirements. This accelerated degree program is commonly offered online, though traditional and hybrid options are available.

Online RN to BSN

The completely online RN to BSN is possible because registered nurses have already completed their clinical hours from their associate’s degree and work experience. This is an accelerated program with few or no breaks and can typically be completed in less than a year. The cost of these programs may be less than traditional in-person ones. Over 100 schools nationwide currently offer an RN to BSN.

Learn more about an  RN to BSN .

Traditional In-Class RN to BSN

For those students not interested in online learning, traditional programs may be preferred and are available in most areas. These students may seek the convenience of evening or weekend classes. Such flexibility allows students to continue working as an RN. Traditional in-class programs allow for more networking and face-to-face interaction with others in the field.

Earning a Master’s of Science in Nursing ( MSN ) is a popular choice for students interested in becoming nurse practitioners , advanced healthcare providers, educators, or researchers. They may also seek to earn more money or plan to advance to a post-master’s degree, such as a DNP  or  Ph.D . Clinical hours or preceptorships are required as part of the program. For more on this, see online RN to MSN bridge programs .

The RN to MSN bridge program prepares students for this advanced career path. It may be offered partially online through in-person clinicals are required for APRN tracks.

Specialties for the MSN include:

• Nurse Administrator
• Nurse Educator
• Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)
• Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)
• Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
• Certified Nurse Midwife
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Adult-Gerontology Acute or Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
• Public Health Nurse
• Nursing Informatics
• Nurse Researcher
• Health Informatics
• Health Systems Management

Though it varies by program, many RN to MSN programs are flexible allowing students to continue working. This also enables students to apply what they learn immediately to the real-world environment. Part-time hours may be more conducive to balancing work with educational goals.

Online RN to MSN

The online-only RN to MSN bridge program is usually reserved for specialties that do not provide direct patient care, such as:

The cost of these accelerated programs varies by school, and financial aid is usually available. Many non-clinical, online-only RN to MSN degrees can be completed in less than 2 years.

Accelerated nursing programs have grown in popularity over the years and are accomplished by applying a streamlined format and omitting breaks. Before applying, prospective students should verify that they satisfy their state's requirements.

Direct-entry MSN programs are available to those with a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field.

Learn more about  accelerated MSN programs .

Traditional In-Class RN to MSN

Graduate degree programs that require clinical hours or preceptorships, such as  Family Nurse Practitioner  or  Clinical Nurse Specialist , are often offered via traditional in-class formats. Some schools may have certain classes available online, such as statistics or nursing ethics.

These programs are usually priced competitively, as there are many available. The student should consider the salary increase that may come with earning the MSN.

Learn more about an  RN to MSN  and  RN to NP .

Direct Entry Master of Science in Nursing degrees (or MENPs) are intended for students who have a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing major. These accelerated, in-person programs are often very competitive and take about 18 months to complete, including clinicals. Due to their intense pace, most universities recommend that students don't work while completing them.

Interested in an  online NP program  or  MENP ?

Advanced Practice Registered Nurses  (APRNs) are nurses with graduate-level degrees (either an  MSN  or  DNP ) including  Nurse Practitioners ,  Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) ,  Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) , and  Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs) . RNs looking to advance their careers often seek APRN specialties for the increased autonomy and salaries they provide. With increasingly busy lifestyles, online APRN programs have become a lifesaver for RNs who want to fit an advanced nursing degree into their schedules. Such online APRN programs still require in-person clinicals.

Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

Most online nurse practitioner (NP) programs allow students to choose a specialization or population focus, including:

• Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP)
• Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP)
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
• Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)

Other Online APRN Programs

In most cases, students pursuing an online APRN including CRNA, CNM, or CNS, need to hold at least a BSN and have an active, unrestricted RN license. While online APRN coursework is convenient and flexible, students should be aware that many programs have an in-person component as well as required in-person clinical hours. These can usually be arranged at a hospital or medical facility in the student’s local area.

Perhaps you are looking for a Post-Graduate Certificate Program in Nursing?

What Will the Day-To-Day Be Like in an Online Nursing Program?

Generally online programs require:

• Participation points

Assignments

Participation points.

Most online courses require participation points. This is the equivalent of showing up for class in the traditional setting. The method for earning these points may vary depending on the program, but typically logging in to a discussion board and posting a few questions and answers to a topic of discussion a few times a week is required. This usually takes about 15 minutes to complete.

In addition to participation points, various assignments are required. These are usually projects or papers and may be required every week. This could be in the form of PowerPoint presentations, essays, research papers, Excel spreadsheets, and/or other formats. As the course progresses and the projects or papers get more demanding, many schools make these items worth more points for class credit. These assignments support the required reading from the textbook.

During the RN to BSN program, nurses may be required to remain employed throughout the program to satisfy a practicum requirement. Working a 12-hour shift three days a week, which is the most common schedule of bedside nurses, and fitting in assignments, reading, and participation points are usually manageable for most students.

Read more about working as an RN , RN salary , or find an RN job .

How Much Do Online Nursing Programs Cost?

While the costs of online nursing programs vary greatly by school, many students discover that they are less expensive than traditional programs. This is particularly true after considering the time and money saved on commuting and incidentals. The convenience of completing classes from the living room often outweighs the downsides.

Many schools require electronic books to be purchased as well as uniforms, stethoscopes, white nursing shoes or other items for clinicals.

Online courses require each student to have access to a computer that is fast and has enough memory to support the program. Purchasing a new computer may be required if the standard is not met.

See our guide discussing the  cost of RN programs .

Which Nursing School Accreditation Should I Be Looking for In a School?

Accreditation is very, very important. These are issued by regulatory bodies that monitor education quality and maintain high standards for schools. Completing a nursing degree from an accredited school is especially important when hoping to advance education at a different school, as many schools will only accept degrees or credits from schools with certain accreditation.

The government regulatory body of accreditation commissions is the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and they recognize seven agencies when considering schools for regional accreditation as of 2021. Be sure to visit https://www.chea.org/chea-and-usde-recognized-accrediting-organizations  for the most current information.

For more on this see nursing school accreditation .

How Do I Complete Clinicals, Practicums, and Internships During Online Nursing School?

Clinicals, preceptorships, or internships are required for all nursing programs except for the RN to BSN option (however, the RN to BSN bridge may require students to work full-time.)

For all other online programs, either the student is required to find a healthcare provider willing to act as a preceptor, or the school will arrange for a preceptor in the student’s local area. The student may have to travel to another area to complete the required hours. The school may have resources to help locate a preceptor and tips on the best ways to approach them.

Students can learn more about clinical hours during RN school .

Do Nursing Programs Accept Credits from the CLEP?

Many programs do not accept credits from the College Level Examination Program ( CLEP ).

The CLEP is an exam designed to curb the cost of college tuition by allowing students to "test out" college classes. However, looking into each program individually is recommended as these rules are subject to change and programs vary.

How Can I Find Out More About Accelerated Nursing Schools?

Working nurses may want to ask colleagues and nurse educators about recommended accelerated programs as they are becoming increasingly common.

See our guide to accelerated nursing programs as well as our complete school list of accelerated BSN programs and complete school list of accelerated MSN programs .

registerednursing.org/nurse-educator

The Top 25 Online Nursing Programs for 2019

Nursing is among the fastest growing employment sectors in the country. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the employment of registered nurses (RNs) will grow much faster than average over the next several years due to an aging population, expected retirements, and a need for more qualified professionals in the nursing profession.

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from a top online college or nursing school opens up many opportunities for employment in the nursing profession and has become increasingly necessary for advancement in the field. RNs looking to move into an administrative position, conduct research, consult, or teach are frequently required to have a BSN or a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from an accredited nursing degree program.

What Are The Top 25 Online BSN Programs?

Note that many of the online nurse practitioner programs in our ranking are degree completion programs that require some prior college credits. Also, tuition rates may not include all applicable fees.

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Villanova, PA - designed for registered nurses who are looking to expand their professional responsibilities, advancement opportunities, income potential and educational requirements to step into the professional side of nursing leadership.The program is designated a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education by the National League for Nursing (NLN).

Washington, DC programs. The degree requires 21 credits and the completion of a professional portfolio. Some of the courses can also count towards graduation credit if you are interested in pursuing a master's or doctorate in nursing.

Omaha, NE in the country. The baccalaureate degree in nursing is accredited by the (CCNE), and offers valuable minors such as and .

Lancaster, PA must be a graduate of an accredited associate degree nursing program and a graduate of an accredited hospital based program - they must also be working in a healthcare setting for a minimum of eight hours per week. The accelerated degree program can be finished in less than two years, and allows flexibility in your schedule. Not yet an RN? There is also an associate of science in nursing degree to enable you to become a registered nurse.

Saint Louis, MO is no different. The training will help you secure your next career move whether it’s as a nurse manager, a specialist or an educator.

Joliet, IL offers advanced training for RNs that emphasizes critical thinking and decision-making. Coursework addresses current topics in nursing such as health policy and informatic and environment, in order to prepare BSNs for ongoing changes in the healthcare industry and emerging areas of focus.

Duluth, MN that can be completed in one year. It involves a total of 46 program credits, and is another one of many online RN to BSN programs highly regarded for flexibility and career advancement.

Springfield, MO for registered nurses over 128 credit hours. There is also an RN to MSN track, which allows nurses to work towards their master’s degree while working on their bachelor’s degree.

Omaha, NE ’s reputation for academic excellence. The curriculum includes a series of nursing courses, general education courses, and specific support courses in related health sciences, although no formal clinic hours are required for this program.

Denver, CO can be completed in as little as 13 months, and a total of up to 90 transfer credits can be accepted upon admission.

Orlando, FL : a RN to BSN degree and an ASN to BSN degree. However, due to state regulations, UCF is not permitted to provide courses to students from some states; check for .

Amherst, MAColumbus, OH was built according to standards of quality developed through national research in online learning from students’ perspectives. The school also has strong healthcare partnerships with 82 acute-care hospitals and 89 continuing care hospitals in 21 states from coast to coast.

Fairfield, CT , offered by Sacred Heart - a top Catholic university with a long and respected track record in adult nursing education - is unique and innovative. One of several online nurse practitioner programs, Sacred Heart’s approach is different, because it’s part of a broader "human journey" curriculum aimed at personal and leadership development for the common good. Students learn to address the whole person in multiple different cultural contexts and to understand nursing within the framework of social justice.

Standish, ME is designed for both diploma and associate degree registered nurses who want to earn their bachelor’s degree. The 128-semester-hour program has a reputation for accepting more courses in transfer than most institutions

Philadelphia, PA is a 180-quarter-credit-hour degree completion program which allows up to 133 general elective credit hours to be transferred in. The program is entirely self-paced, allowing students to take as few as one course a semester. This is an extremely popular program from a respected private university with an award-winning online division.

Hamden, CT program allows registered nurses to stay competitive and evolve in the ever-changing world of health care. This intellectually stimulating program, taught by knowledgeable faculty members with real-world experience, prepares you with the skills and understanding you need to meet the demand for better educated nurses in the workforce.

Fort Lauderdale, FL at Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida offers a convenient pathway to reach your potential - entirely online courses designed for busy, working nurses and small class sizes with experienced faculty help you complete the RN to BSN degree in as few as four semesters.

Lowell, MA . Courses are available online, on-campus and in a "blended" format - making it more convenient than ever for licensed RNs to earn a bachelor's degree part-time. The university's School of Nursing is fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). It is also approved by the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing (BORN).

Greenville, NC is built upon a liberal arts and a natural and behavioral sciences education, stressing the learning of concepts and principles, as well as the use of the nursing process in caring for individuals, families and groups.

Lynchburg, VA that requires 120 credit hours. Up to 90 hours may be transferred in, with a minimum of at least 30 hours completed through Liberty.

Pittsburgh, PA is based on a strong liberal arts and science foundation. Courses are taught completely online in an asynchronous format and run in seven-week sessions rather than full semesters.

Wilmington, NC , The University of North Carolina Wilmington is an excellent choice for your . The price is particularly attractive for North Carolina residents, allowing them to pay less than a quarter of the price of those located out of state.

Tampa, FL is developed for today’s nurse with leadership and management skills, a focus on patient and staff education and clinical excellence. Students interested in USF’s nursing master’s, Ph.D. or DNP programs can expect a seamless transition from one program to the other.

Dallas, PA as part of their undergraduate offerings. The Catholic University located in northeast Pennsylvania has been providing quality education for more than 90 years.

Advantages of Online Nursing Programs

Online nursing programs are among the most popular online degree programs, and RNs looking to earn a BSN have a number of accredited online RN to BSN degree programs to choose from. Earning a BSN from one of the top online nursing schools allows a student to maintain their employment and/or family responsibilities while earning their degree. Many of the best accredited online RN to BSN degree programs don’t require any campus visits, and allow practicums and clinicals to be completed at the student’s place of employment or at a nearby health facility.

How We rank Online Nursing Degree Programs

Online nursing programs vary widely in terms of quality, name recognition, and value. To assist those looking for a high-quality, accredited online RN to BSN degree program, we’ve put together this ranking of the best accredited online RN to BSN programs for 2019. Our rankings are based on publicly available data evaluated according to several different criteria, including reputation, accreditation, student satisfaction, ratio of students to instructors, and cost. You can read more about our rankings philosophy and find a list of other top college and degree rankings on our rankings page .

To determine the best online Bachelor of Nursing (RN to BSN) degrees, we looked at the most important factors prospective students, mainly common predictors of future success and a school's commitment to online programs. This boils down to admissions rate, student loan default rate, retention rate, graduation rate, and the percent of students enrolled in online classes. All data points are taken from information provided by colleges and universities to the National Center for Education Statistics.

Each factor is weighted evenly in order to give an objective view and determine the 10 best online Bachelor of Nursing (RN to BSN) programs. To calculate our rankings, we looked at a school's ranking when organized by a single factor, and then averaged each category's ranking to find an overall score: Admissions Rate (20%) + Default Rate (20%) + Retention Rate (20%) + Graduation Rate (20%) + Percent of Students Enrolled in Online Classes (20%) = Final score.

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• Cheapest RN-To-B.S.N. Online Programs

Cheapest RN-To-B.S.N. Online Programs: 10 Best Schools

Updated: Jul 24, 2024, 10:31am

Many nurses pursue a nursing career because of their strong desire to help others, but it takes a lot of dedication and determination to participate in the continuing education nursing requires.

While a Bachelor of Science in nursing (B.S.N.) can certainly boost your potential as a nurse to find competitive job opportunities and increase your salary, it also requires an additional time and cost investment. The good news is that if you’re already a registered nurse with an associate degree, you can leverage your education and credentials to earn your B.S.N. in less time—and with less money out of your pocket.

We researched dozens of schools to rank the 10 cheapest online RN-to-B.S.N. programs in the United States. We detail our findings in this guide so that you can explore affordable programs that potentially meet your educational and budgetary goals.

Why You Can Trust Forbes Advisor Education

Forbes Advisor’s education editors are committed to producing unbiased rankings and informative articles covering online colleges, tech bootcamps and career paths. Our ranking methodologies use data from the National Center for Education Statistics , education providers, and reputable educational and professional organizations. An advisory board of educators and other subject matter experts reviews and verifies our content to bring you trustworthy, up-to-date information. Advertisers do not influence our rankings or editorial content.

• 6,290 accredited, nonprofit colleges and universities analyzed nationwide
• 52 reputable tech bootcamp providers evaluated for our rankings
• All content is fact-checked and updated on an annual basis
• Rankings undergo five rounds of fact-checking
• Only 7.12% of all colleges, universities and bootcamp providers we consider are awarded

Our Methodology

We ranked 52 accredited, nonprofit colleges offering affordable online RN-to-B.S.N. programs in the U.S. using 17 data points in the categories of affordability, student outcomes, student experience, credibility and application process.

We pulled data for these categories from reliable resources such as the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ; private, third-party data sources; and individual school and program websites. Data is accurate as of February 2024.

We scored schools based on the following metrics.

Affordability:

• Average in-state tuition rate and fees
• Median federal student loan debt
• Student loan default rate
• Percentage of students who take out loans

Student Outcomes:

• Graduation rate within eight years of normal time
• Median earnings 10 years after graduation
• Pell Grant recipient graduation rate within eight years of normal time
• Retention rate
• Pell Grant graduation rate vs. overall graduation rate

Student Experience:

• Student-to-faculty ratio
• Socioeconomic diversity
• Program’s coursework (excluding student orientations, field experiences and labs) is available 100% online
• Proportion of undergraduate students enrolled in at least some distance-learning courses

Credibility:

• Fully accredited
• Nonprofit status

Application Process:

• Acceptance rate
• Uses Common App

We chose the 10 best schools to display based on those receiving a curved final score of 85% or higher.

Find our full list of methodologies here .

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Key Takeaways

Best affordable rn-to-b.s.n. online programs, how to find the right rn-to-b.s.n. online for cheap, should you enroll in an affordable online rn-to-b.s.n. program, accreditation for the cheapest online rn-to-b.s.n. programs, frequently asked questions (faqs) about the cheapest rn-to-b.s.n. online programs.

• The most affordable RN-to-B.S.N. programs offer tuition rates from $42 to $447 per credit.
• Scholarships and grants for nurses can further reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Speak with a financial aid advisor to learn more about a school’s aid options for nursing students.
• Program quality, which can be denoted through accreditation, is as important as affordability. Many employers expect candidates to graduate from a program accredited by a recognized nursing accrediting body, such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing.

University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Suny polytechnic institute, florida gateway college.

• University of Florida – Online

Western Carolina University

University of arkansas at little rock, university of the cumberlands, northeastern state university, empire state university, the university of memphis.

Program Tuition Rate

$235/credit (in-state)

Student Retention Rate

Graduation Rate

The RN-to-B.S.N. program from the University of North Carolina (UNC) at Greensboro is designed for North Carolina registered nurses to continue their education through convenient and flexible part-time learning.

The asynchronous program moves students through courses with a cohort, allowing them to finish the degree in one year with a summer semester. Learners explore older adult care, pharmacology and nursing leadership through the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education-accredited program.

UNC Greensboro keeps fees minimal for online learners, charging about $40 per credit for online student services and technology fees.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn on Your Schedule
• School Type: Public
• Application Fee: $65
• Degree Credit Requirements: 28 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Part time
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Nursing research, community health nursing concepts and care
• Concentrations Available: N/A
• In-Person Requirements: No

$295/credit (in-state)

SUNY Polytechnic Institute , located in Utica, New York, offers an online RN-to-B.S.N. program that full-time learners can finish in 18 months, although the program also supports part-time schedules. All courses are available online via Blackboard, but some courses have live meeting times with instructors. The school also requires in-person practicum experiences in community healthcare settings.

Each student can transfer up to 76 credits from nursing and liberal arts and sciences courses to reduce their time and cost commitment for the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education-accredited degree.

• Application Fee: $50
• Degree Credit Requirements: 124 credits for B.S.N.
• Program Enrollment Options: Full time, part time
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Transformational leadership, theoretical bases for professional nursing practice
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for practicum experiences

$120/credit (in-state)

The Lake City-based Florida Gateway College (FGC) allows registered nurses to complete its Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education-accredited RN-to-B.S.N. program online on a part-time or full-time basis. To graduate, a learner must complete at least 121 credits, participate in an in-person clinical and fulfill a foreign language requirement, taking at least two courses in the same foreign language during their high school or college studies.

Florida students pay a technology fee of less than $5 per credit, with tuition and fees totaling $120 per credit. FGC also provides more than $600,000 in scholarships each academic year.

• Application Fee: Free
• Degree Credit Requirements: 49 credits
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Community health, nursing in diverse cultures
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for clinicals

University of Florida – Online

$129/credit (in-state)

Based in Gainesville, the University of Florida (UF) – Online offers all coursework for its RN-to-B.S.N. online in a part-time format.

Registered nurses with an associate degree are welcome to apply to the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education-accredited program, which requires 60 credits and 90 clinical hours. While students can complete the first 45 clinical hours online, they must set up an in-person experience near their home for the last 45 hours.

UF Online charges Florida residents just $129 per credit for tuition and fees and offers several financial aid options for students, including assistance programs for military members and veterans, scholarships and grants.

• Application Fee: $30
• Degree Credit Requirements: 60 credits
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Pathophysiology and pharmacology, genetics and genomics in nursing practice
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for some clinical hours

$42/credit (in-state)

The online RN-to-B.S.N. program from Western Carolina University (WCU) is designed for working nurses, requiring just nine or fewer credits per semester. Most students complete the program, which is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, in four semesters. The program is divided into four blocks, covering community health, leadership, research and introductory courses.

Located in Cullowhee, North Carolina, WCU participates in the NC Promise Tuition Plan, which reduces tuition for in-state students. Part-time RN-to-B.S.N. students at WCU pay just $42 per credit.

• Degree Credit Requirements: 30 credits
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Community health nursing, nursing leadership

$292/credit

Learners can finish the University of Arkansas (UA) at Little Rock ‘s accelerated online RN-to-B.S.N. program in three to five semesters, with just one or two courses per session to accommodate a full-time nursing career. The program, which is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, explores nursing research, leadership, ethics, community health and wellness education.

RN-to-B.S.N. students at UA Little Rock Online may be subject to fees for clinical courses added to their tuition costs. However, the school offers reduced tuition and free applications for military members and veterans.

• Application Fee: $40
• Degree Credit Requirements: 34 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Accelerated
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Healthcare economics, wellness promotion

$220/credit

University of the Cumberlands is a private school located in Williamsburg, Kentucky. It’s RN-to-B.S.N. pathway, which is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, is available entirely online, with each course lasting just eight weeks. Generally, students can expect to complete all 38 credits covering concepts including social policy, pathophysiology and healthcare statistics and communication in one year.

Cumberlands charges $220 per credit to online learners, regardless of where they live. This rate includes tuition, fees, textbooks and student services.

• School Type: Private
• Degree Credit Requirements: 38 credits
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Global health nursing, principles of healthcare management

$306/credit (in-state)

Northeastern State University (NSU), a public school located in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, offers an online RN-to-B.S.N. program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. The program offers six start dates each year, allowing students to begin when they’re ready. Each of the 10 classes lasts seven weeks for full program completion in about 10 months.

NSU delivers all RN-to-B.S.N. coursework online asynchronously, but two courses require field experiences in an approved healthcare setting.

• Application Fee: $25
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Transcultural nursing, person and family-centered nursing care
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for field requirements

Empire State University , a public school located in Saratoga Springs, New York, is part of the SUNY system. Its Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education-accredited RN-to-B.S.N. program is available in person and online on a full-time or part-time schedule, with the potential to be completed in 10 months.

In addition to online coursework, learners complete supervised in-person experiences at local healthcare facilities, split into 45 hours in a community health setting and 90 hours in a leadership role.

SUNY Empire offers credit for previous learning, certifications and professional experience.

• Degree Credit Requirements: 41 credits
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Healthcare delivery systems and policy, population and community health nursing
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for clinical practicum

$447/credit (in-state)

The RN-to-B.S.N. from The University of Memphis (UofM) in Tennessee is available online through UofM Global. The program, which is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, includes seven-week courses spread through four semesters. Each course uses an adaptive learning format, allowing a student who masters its concepts to speed up the course’s completion time.

UofM Global grants credit for prior learning experiences and examinations for this program’s pharmacology, pathophysiology and health assessment courses.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn Around Your 9-to-5
• Program Enrollment Options: Full time
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Clinical pathophysiology, transcultural nursing in diverse populations

Consider Your Future Goals

Although explicitly looking for the cheapest online RN-to-B.S.N. programs can help you save money, finding a program that fits your professional goals is equally important.

To start, consider whether you would like a program requiring field experience, which can be helpful for newer RNs who want to gain additional experience in healthcare settings with nursing leadership, community health and patient care. In contrast, if you prefer to complete your program entirely online, you should look for an option with a virtual practicum or capstone.

Additionally, compare part-time, full-time and accelerated program options . Full-time and accelerated programs can help you finish faster, but they may require a more demanding course load. Meanwhile, part-time programs can be a good fit for students with busy schedules, but they could take an extra semester or more to complete.

Also, prioritize programs that align with your schedule. If you have a full-time job, you may benefit from an asynchronous program that you can finish at your own pace. Or, if you have some availability for live online classes, make sure the program offers classes with a few days and times to choose from.

Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options

Tuition for RN-to-B.S.N. programs can vary significantly between schools. The cheapest online RN-to-B.S.N. programs included in our ranking charge an average of $237 per credit. Generally requiring 30 to 60 credits for B.S.N. completion, these programs cost between $7,110 and $14,220.

The National Center for Education Statistics lists the average tuition at a four-year college as $17,709 for the 2022–2023 academic year. This one-year cost is higher than the average complete cost of the affordable programs in our ranking.

To maximize your savings for your RN-to-B.S.N. program, fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®), which considers what types of federal financial aid you may be eligible for, such as grants and student loans. Many schools and organizations also offer scholarships and grants for nursing students . Check with your school’s financial aid office and your organization for available options.

Many learners choose online degrees because they’re known to be flexible and convenient. But is online college right for you and your RN-to-B.S.N. program? Here are a few points to consider.

Affordability

Our ranking includes the cheapest online RN-to-B.S.N. programs based on our methodology, but not all online programs are cheap.

When comparing online programs, consider all fees involved. For example, some schools charge technology fees to online students, increasing per-credit or per-semester tuition. Schools may also charge out-of-state online learners higher tuition than in-state students. Meanwhile, others offer a flat online tuition rate for all students to increase affordability.

Course Delivery

If you’re working as a full-time nurse, you may benefit from an asynchronous online program, which lets you work through your courses at your convenience. However, if you prefer a more interactive learning environment, you might do best with synchronous classes, which have set meeting times with your instructor and classmates.

If you choose the latter, look for a program with meeting times that work around your schedule, such as classes that meet on weekends or once during the week.

State Requirements

Nursing licensure requirements vary from state to state, so some schools only allow licensed RNs within the school’s state to apply to their RN-to-B.S.N. program. This can get tricky when pursuing an online degree from a school in another state. Browse the program’s admission requirements to determine whether your credentials are accepted.

In-Person Requirements

Some RN-to-B.S.N. programs provide all traditional coursework online but still require students to complete in-person field experiences. Before enrolling, make sure you’re aware of any face-to-face requirements, which you can discuss with an enrollment counselor.

Many colleges and universities undergo a voluntary process known as institutional accreditation, which pinpoints schools that commit to continuous improvement in their academics, faculty, student outcomes and overall quality.

Generally, a student must attend an institutionally accredited school to receive federal financial aid and to transfer their credits to another school. All schools in our ranking hold institutional accreditation from an organization approved by the U.S. Department of Education (ED) or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

RN-to-B.S.N. programs typically also hold programmatic accreditation, which is specific to programs or departments within a school. Programmatic accreditation is essential for nursing education, ensuring a program meets the quality and safety standards expected in healthcare.

The programmatically accredited online RN-to-B.S.N. programs in our ranking are endorsed by the ED-recognized Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, which is approved by the ED and CHEA.

Students can use the CHEA searchable database to find accredited schools and programs.

What is the easiest RN-to-B.S.N. online program?

Many online RN-to-B.S.N. programs include nursing courses that some students may find challenging. However, some programs may seem easier than others because they have fewer courses or no in-person field experiences. For example, out of the options in our ranking, UNC Greensboro only requires 28 credits and allows students to complete all coursework online within one year.

What is the cheapest online college for nursing?

From the options in our ranking, Western Carolina University offers the cheapest tuition at $42 per credit, thanks to its participation in the NC Promise program. However, the other options, such as Florida Gateway College and the University of Florida – Online, also offer affordable tuition ranging from $120 to $447 per credit

What is the cheapest online accelerated B.S.N. program?

Based on our methodology and research, the University of the Cumberlands offers the cheapest accelerated online B.S.N. completion program for RNs, charging $220 per credit. The University of Arkansas at Little Rock also offers an affordable, accelerated program for $292 per credit.

As a self-proclaimed lifelong learner and former educator, Amy Boyington is passionate about researching and advocating for learners of all ages. For over a decade, Amy has specialized in writing parenting and higher education content that simplifies the process of comparing schools, programs and tuition rates for prospective students and their families. Her work has been featured on several online publications, including Online MBA, Reader’s Digest and BestColleges.

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Learn more about Admissions at Columbia Nursing, including important dates and deadlines, and how to apply to all of our programs. 

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Global opportunities for clinical practicum and research may be available for MDE and doctoral students at Columbia Nursing.

Online Prerequisites for Entry to Nursing

Columbia University School Nursing is committed to preparing future nurses by offering an excellent education, beginning with prerequisite courses. The Online Prerequisites for Entry to Nursing (OPEN) program allows non-nurses to take courses needed to apply to nursing school or other health professions schools that require science prerequisites. 

All courses are taught by Columbia University faculty and are undergraduate-level. Course offerings are available three times per year with each session lasting ten weeks. The modules are set up independently and allow registration for courses to be taken concurrently. Upon completion, all grades are posted on an official transcript from Columbia University. The courses are fully accredited and transferable. 

In alignment with our commitment to social justice and health equity, these courses are offered online and at a discounted tuition.

OPEN Program Calendar

• August 29 - September 9, 2022 : OPEN Early Registration Period (New Students) 
• September 12, 2022 : OPEN Fall Session Begins 
• September 12-16, 2022 : OPEN Change of Program Period 
• September 16, 2022 : Last Day to Add/Drop Course with Tuition Refunded 
• November 21, 2022 : OPEN Fall Session Ends 

Spring 2023

• January 9 - 20, 2023 : OPEN Early Registration Period (New OPEN Students) 
• January 23, 2023 : OPEN Spring Session Begins 
• January 23 - 27, 2023 : OPEN Change of Program Period 
• January 27, 2023 : Last Day to Add/Drop Course with Tuition Refunded 
• April 3, 2023 : OPEN Spring Session Ends 

Summer 2023

• May 30 - June 9, 2023 : OPEN Early Registration Period (New Students) (Anticipated)
• June 12, 2023 : OPEN Summer Session Begins (Anticipated)
• June 12-16, 2023 : OPEN Change of Program Period (Anticipated)
• June 16, 2023 : Last Day to Add/Drop Course with Tuition Refunded (Anticipated)
• August 21, 2023 : OPEN Summer Session Ends (Anticipated)
• August 28 - September 8, 2023 : OPEN Early Registration Period (New Students) (Anticipated)
• September 11, 2023 : OPEN Fall Session Begins (Anticipated)
• September 11-15, 2023 : OPEN Change of Program Period (Anticipated)
• September 15, 2023 : Last Day to Add/Drop Course with Tuition Refunded (Anticipated)
• November 20, 2023 : OPEN Fall Session Ends (Anticipated)

Spring 2024 

• January 8 - 19, 2024 : OPEN Early Registration Period (New OPEN Students) 
• January 22, 2024 : OPEN Spring Session Begins 
• January 22 - 26, 2024 : OPEN Change of Program Period 
• January 26, 2024 : Last Day to Add/Drop Course with Tuition Refunded 
• April 1, 2024 : OPEN Spring Session Ends 

Summer 2024

• May 27 - June 7, 2024 : OPEN Early Registration Period (New Students)
• June 10, 2024 : OPEN Summer Session Begins 
• June 10-14 2024 : OPEN Change of Program Period 
• June 14, 2024 : Last Day to Add/Drop Course with Tuition Refunded 
• August 16, 2024 : OPEN Summer Session Ends 
• August 25- September 6, 2024 : OPEN Early Registration Period (New Students) (Anticipated)
• September 9, 2024 : OPEN Fall Session Begins (Anticipated)
• September 9-13, 2024 : OPEN Change of Program Period (Anticipated)
• September 13, 2024 : Last Day to Add/Drop Course with Tuition Refunded (Anticipated)
• November 15, 2024 : OPEN Fall Session Ends (Anticipated)

School of Nursing Academic Calendar

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For program related questions please contact [email protected] .

Registration Policies & Procedures

The OPEN Program is a remote online non-degree program. Students in the OPEN program can only enroll in Columbia Nursing OPEN courses. OPEN students do not receive Columbia University ID cards, and do not have access to University campus buildings or events.  

Students Enrolled or Applying to other Columbia University (or Affiliate) Schools

Columbia students can only enroll under one school at a time. 

Cross-Registration for Non-Nursing Columbia University Students

If enrolled in another Columbia University program, Columbia Nursing allows a limited number of students to cross-register in OPEN courses during the OPEN Change of Program period. Students that cross-register will be billed by their home school. Students enrolled in other Columbia programs can complete the  OPEN Cross-Registration Request Form  to indicate your interest in cross-registering in OPEN courses. Students will be added to a waitlist to cross-register in OPEN courses at Columbia Nursing. Please note that submission of this form does not guarantee permission to cross-register. Students approved to cross-register will be emailed by the Office of Student Services at Columbia Nursing during the OPEN change of program period.

OPEN Enrollment Policy

Students enrolled in the OPEN Program are considered active, non-degree students for a period of one academic year (three consecutive semesters). During this time, students can enroll in OPEN courses only (OPEN students cannot cross register at other courses outside of the School of Nursing) and have an active Columbia Nursing email account. Admissions does not grant deferrals in the OPEN program and will need to reapply if they cannot enroll in the semester they are applying to or if they withdraw from the semester accepted.

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Sally aboelela, phd, rn.

• Human Anatomy & Physiology I & II
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Michelle Evans, DNP

• Microbiology

Gabrielle A. Ranger-Murdock, DNP, PMHNP

• Introduction to Developmental Psychology: A Lifespan Perspective

Lora Sporny, Ed.D

• Human Nutrition

This undergraduate-level introductory course provides an overview of the science of nutrition and nutrition's relationship to health promotion and disease prevention. The primary focus is on the essential macronutrients and micronutrients, including their chemical structures, food sources, digestion and absorption, metabolism, storage, and excretion. Students develop the skills to evaluate dietary patterns and to estimate caloric requirements and nutrient needs using tools such as Dietary Guidelines for Americans, My Plate, Nutrition Facts Labels, and Dietary Reference Intakes. 

This undergraduate-level introductory course is the first of a two-course-series on human anatomy and physiology. Using a body systems approach, we will study the anatomical structure and physiological function of the human body. Foundational concepts from chemistry, cell biology, and histology are reviewed and built upon through the progression of topics. Each of the body systems will be studied for their structure, function, and mechanisms of regulation. The core concepts of levels of organization, interdependence of systems, and homeostasis will be emphasized throughout the course. This beginner level course will lay the foundation for further advanced study of physiology and pathophysiology within a nursing curriculum.

This undergraduate-level introductory course is the second of a two-course series on human anatomy and physiology. Using a body systems approach, we will study the anatomical structure and physiological function of the human body. Foundational concepts from chemistry, cell biology, and histology are reviewed and built upon through the progression of topics. Each of the body systems will be studied for their structure, function, and mechanisms of regulation. The core concepts of levels of organization, interdependence of systems, and homeostasis will be emphasized throughout the course. This beginner level course will lay the foundation for further advanced study of physiology and pathophysiology within a nursing curriculum.

This online undergraduate-level introductory course focuses on the core concepts and principles of microbiology. We will explore how microorganisms co-exist and interact with humans creating both beneficial and pathological results. We will survey the diversity of microorganisms, their classification, and the essential processes needed for survival; which will dictate the environments in which they can thrive. This exploration of microorganism diversity will include topics such as microbial nutrition and metabolism, genetics, and antimicrobial mechanisms employed by and against microorganisms. Special attention will be given to understanding the human immune system, mechanisms of infection by pathogenic microorganisms, and the role non-harmful microbiota serve in supporting immune function. The weekly lab component of this course will support and complement each learning module and familiarize students with basic microbiologic lab techniques.  

This introductory course covers human development across the lifespan. The course will provide an overview of development and the complexity of human growth through physical, cognitive, emotional, and social capacities. A review of historical and modern-day developmental theories as well as more complex interpersonal constructs, such as cultural variations, will be discussed. Special emphasis is placed upon examining the dynamic interplay between biology and environment with relevant application to nursing practice. The role of social and cultural stressors such as racism and socioeconomics in shaping human development will be examined. This undergraduate-level course will lay the foundation for further advanced study of human development within a nursing curriculum.

In this introductory undergraduate course students will learn how vital the study of Biostatistics is to ensure that clinical and public health practices are supported by reliable evidence. Students will gain an appreciation for the hazards of applying human intuition to probability and statistical questions. This course is designed to explore the collection, analysis, and presentation/visualization of biologic and health data using statistical methods. Students will learn and apply fundamental concepts and techniques of descriptive statistics. Students will also learn basic fundamental concepts of inferential statistics.

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Bachelor of Science

Prelicensure Nursing BSN

Because You Care

One Program to Become Both an RN and Earn a BSN

If you are looking to become a registered nurse and live in Arkansas, Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, or Wisconsin, this nursing program could be for you. In areas where this program is available, WGU has partnerships with healthcare employers who provide practice sites and clinical coaches to help teach and inspire you on your path to becoming a nurse. WGU Clinical Learning and Simulation Centers (labs) are located in Utah, Texas, Missouri, Indiana, and Florida.

Learn more about navigating through your Enrollment Portal.

States where the Prelicensure BSN Program is Offered

• Mississippi
• North Carolina
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• West Virginia

The Arkansas Division of Higher Education approved Western Governors University to offer the prelicensure program in the Bear State. WGU's Utah-based program enrolls Arkansans to take their program from home, complete their two four-day-long lab experiences at one of the regional simulation labs, and participate in clinical experiences in Arkansas. For additional questions about how you will obtain a license as a nurse, contact [email protected] .

Districts with clinical placement opportunities:

• Fayetteville
• Little Rock

Clinical assignments are based upon a variety of factors such as state of residence, student program status, and student capacity at the time of clinical progression. Lab assignments are aligned with the location of the clinical district chosen.

Clinical opportunities are available within 60 miles of the district listed. Students can be placed at clinical partner sites throughout the 60 mile radius.

Students will travel to lab twice during their program to a WGU regional learning lab center. Efforts are made to assign students to the regional lab that aligns with their clinical district. There may be situations where the regional lab aligning with the clinical district is unavailable. When that occurs, students will be placed at an alternate regional learning lab location.

Program start dates vary.

The Florida Board of Nursing approved Western Governors University to offer the prelicensure program in the Sunshine State. WGU enrolls Floridians to take their program from home, complete their two four-day-long lab experiences at a Florida-based regional simulation lab, and participate in clinical experiences in Florida. For additional questions about how you will obtain a license as a nurse, contact [email protected] .

• Jacksonville
• Ft Lauderdale

Program start dates vary. 

The Idaho Board of Nursing approved Western Governors University to offer clinical placements in the Gem State. WGU's Utah-based program enrolls Idahoans to take their program from home, complete their two four-day-long lab experiences at one of the regional simulation labs, and participate in clinical experiences in Idaho. For additional questions about how you will obtain a license as a nurse, contact [email protected] .

Districts with clinical opportunities:

• Idaho Falls

The Indiana Board of Nursing approved Western Governors University to offer the prelicensure program in the Hoosier State. WGU enrolls Hoosiers to take their program from home, complete their two four-day-long lab experiences at an Indiana-based regional simulation lab, and participate in clinical experiences in Indiana. For additional questions about how you will obtain a license as a nurse, contact [email protected] .

• Indianapolis
• Michigan City

Completion of the prelicensure program satisfies the applicable requirements to obtain a license as a nurse in Iowa. The Iowa Board of Nursing does not approve programs originating out of state. WGU's Utah-based program enrolls Iowans to take their program from home, complete their two four-day-long lab experiences at one of the regional simulation labs, and participate in clinical experiences in Iowa. For additional questions about how you will obtain your license as a nurse, contact [email protected] .

Completion of the prelicensure program satisfies the applicable requirements to obtain a license as a nurse in Kansas. The Kansas Board of Nursing does not approve programs originating out of state. WGU's Utah-based program enrolls Kansans to take their program from home, complete their two four-day-long lab experiences at one of the regional simulation labs, and participate in clinical experiences in Kansas. For additional questions about how you will obtain your license as a nurse, contact [email protected] .

• Kansas City/Overland Park

Completion of the prelicensure program satisfies the applicable requirements to obtain a license as a nurse in Kentucky. The Kentucky Board of Nursing does not approve programs originating out of state. WGU's Utah-based program enrolls Kentuckians to take their program from home, complete their two four-day-long lab experiences at one of the regional simulation labs, and participate in clinical experiences in Kentucky. For additional questions about how you will obtain your license as a nurse, contact [email protected] .

Completion of the prelicensure program satisfies the applicable requirements to obtain a license as a nurse in Michigan. The Michigan Board of Nursing does not approve programs originating out of state. WGU's Utah-based program enrolls Michiganders to take their program from home, complete their two four-day-long lab experiences at one of the regional simulation labs, and participate in clinical experiences in Michigan. For additional questions about how you will obtain your license as a nurse, contact [email protected] .

• Grand Rapids

Completion of the prelicensure program satisfies the applicable requirements to obtain a license as a nurse in Minnesota. The Minnesota Board of Nursing does not approve programs originating out of state. WGU's Utah-based program enrolls Minnesotans to take their program from home, complete their two four-day-long lab experiences at one of the regional simulation labs, and participate in clinical experiences in Minnesota. For additional questions about how you will obtain your license as a nurse, contact [email protected] .

• Minneapolis

The Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning approved Western Governors University to offer clinical placements in the Magnolia State. WGU's Utah-based program enrolls Mississippians to take their program from home, complete their two four-day-long lab experiences at one of the regional simulation labs, and participate in clinical experiences in Mississippi. For additional questions about how you will obtain a license as a nurse, contact [email protected] .Districts with clinical placement opportunities:

The Missouri Board of Nursing approved Western Governors University to offer the prelicensure program in the Show-Me State. WGU enrolls Missourians to take their program from home, complete their two four-day-long lab experiences at the regional simulation lab in Kansas City, and participate in clinical experiences in Missouri. For additional questions about how you will obtain a license as a nurse, contact [email protected].   [email protected] .

• Kansas City
• Springfield

The Nevada Board of Nursing approved Western Governors University to offer clinical placements in the Silver State. WGU's Utah-based program enrolls Nevadans to take their program from home, complete their two four-day-long lab experiences in one of the regional simulation labs, and participate in clinical experiences in Nevada. For additional questions about how you will obtain a license as a nurse, contact [email protected] .

Completion of the prelicensure program satisfies the applicable requirements to obtain a license as a nurse in New Mexico. The New Mexico Board of Nursing does not approve programs originating out of state. WGU's Utah-based program enrolls New Mexicans to take their program from home, complete their two four-day-long lab experiences at one of the regional simulation labs, and participate in clinical experiences in New Mexico. For additional questions about how you will obtain your license as a nurse, contact [email protected] .

• Albuquerque

Completion of the prelicensure program satisfies the applicable requirements to obtain a license as a nurse in North Carolina. The North Carolina Board of Nursing does not approve programs originating out of state. WGU's Utah-based program enrolls North Carolinians to take their program from home, complete their two four-day-long lab experiences at one of the regional simulation labs, and participate in clinical experiences in North Carolina. For additional questions about how you will obtain your license as a nurse, contact [email protected] .

• Raleigh/Durham

Completion of the prelicensure program satisfies the applicable requirements to obtain a license as a nurse in Ohio. The Ohio Board of Nursing does not approve programs originating out of state. WGU's Utah-based program enrolls Ohioans to take their program from home, complete their two four-day-long lab experiences at one of the regional simulation labs, and participate in clinical experiences in Ohio. For additional questions about how you will obtain your license as a nurse, contact [email protected] .

• Oklahoma City

The South Carolina Board of Nursing approved Western Governors University to offer clinical placements in the Palmetto State. WGU's Utah-based program enrolls South Carolinians to take their program from home, complete their two four-day-long lab experiences at one of the regional simulation labs, and participate in clinical experiences in South Carolina. For additional questions about how you will obtain a license as a nurse, contact [email protected] .

Completion of the prelicensure program satisfies the applicable requirements to obtain a license as a nurse in South Dakota. The South Dakota Board of Nursing does not approve programs originating out of state. WGU's Utah-based program enrolls South Dakotans to take their program from home, complete their two four-day-long lab experiences at one of the regional simulation labs, and participate in clinical experiences in South Dakota. For additional questions about how you will obtain your license as a nurse, contact [email protected] .

• Sioux Falls

Program start dates vary

WGU is approved by the Tennessee Board of Nursing. WGU's prelicensure program enrolls Tennesseans to take their program from home, complete their two four-day-long lab experiences at one of the regional simulation labs, and participate in clinical experiences in Tennessee. For additional questions about how you will obtain a license as a nurse, contact [email protected] .

• Chattanooga

The Texas Board of Nursing approved Western Governors University to offer the prelicensure program in the Lone Star State. WGU enrolls Texans to take their program from home, complete their two four-day-long lab experiences at the regional simulation lab in Houston, and participate in clinical experiences in Texas. For additional questions about how you will obtain a license as a nurse, contact [email protected] .

Districts with clinical opportunites:

• College Station
• San Antonio
• Midland/Odessa

WGU’s programmatically accredited prelicensure program satisfies the applicable prerequisites established by the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing for an initial nursing license in the state. WGU's prelicensure program enrolls Utahns to take their program from home, complete their two four-day-long lab experiences at the regional simulation lab in Salt Lake City, and participate in clinical experiences in Utah. For additional questions about how you will obtain a license as a nurse, contact [email protected] .

• Salt Lake City

Completion of the prelicensure program satisfies the applicable requirements to obtain a license as a nurse in Virginia. The Virginia Board of Nursing does not approve programs originating out of state. WGU's Utah-based program enrolls Virginians to take their program from home, complete their two four-day-long lab experiences at one of the regional simulation labs, and participate in clinical experiences in Virginia. For additional questions about how you will obtain your license as a nurse, contact [email protected] .

Completion of the prelicensure program satisfies the applicable requirements to obtain a license as a nurse in West Virginia. The West Virginia Board of Nursing does not approve programs originating out of state. WGU's Utah-based program enrolls West Virginians to take their program from home, complete their two four-day-long lab experiences at one of the regional simulation labs, and participate in clinical experiences in West Virginia. For additional questions about how you will obtain your license as a nurse, contact [email protected] .

• Charleston, WV

The Wisconsin Board of Nursing approved Western Governors University to offer clinical placements in the Badger State. WGU's Utah-based program enrolls Wisconsinites to take their program from home, complete their two four-day-long lab experiences at one of the regional simulation labs, and participate in clinical experiences in Wisconsin. For additional questions about how you will obtain a license as a nurse, contact [email protected] .

If you don't live in one of the states listed above, there is an alternative route for patient care through our Bachelor's of Science in Health and Human Services  degree. This degree allows you to still be involved with patients by working to help with insurance, payments, and other details of healthcare that can be confusing and frustrating. If you want to work with patients, but our nursing degree isn't feasible, consider the Health and Human Services degree instead.

This program is paced to have a completion time of 

You will be expected to complete all required credits assigned each 6-month term. Students may be able to accelerate some portions of the program.

Tuition per six-month term is

Throughout the program, students pay $8,755 per six-months.

Expect to spend about

30 hours/week

on your studies, assessments, and in the completion of clinical rotations and simulation labs.

Next Start Date: Varies

If admitted, WGU will grant a start date based on a variety of factors.

HOW IT WORKS

Pre-Nursing and Clinical Nursing Portions

Pre-Nursing

Students begin the prelicensure program at WGU with their pre-nursing coursework. This includes general education courses, as well as introductory medical coursework. This allows students to satisfy required prerequisites for the clinical portion of the program.

Clinical Nursing

After finishing the pre-nursing portion of the program, students that have met progression requirements are eligible to progress into the clinical nursing portion of the program. This portion of the program contains more specific nursing coursework, as well as hands-on clinical experiences that are required for students to earn their Bachelors of Science in Nursing Degree and become eligible to sit for the RN licensure exam after graduation.

Nursing Prelicensure Courses

You will work with your WGU Program Mentor and Instructors to prepare for rigorous assessments, virtual-reality simulations, and high-fidelity simulations. Once you've successfully completed those, you will qualify to attend your agency-based clinical rotations. Expect to spend at least 30 hours or more per week on your studies, and in the completion of clinical rotations and simulation labs.

This program has a standard path and is paced to be completed in 8 terms or 4 years. Some students may be able to accelerate their pace with transfer credits.

Transferrable courses for the prelicensure program must have a minimum "C" grade or better to be approved for transfer credit.

The curriculum in WGU’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree is designed not only to prepare you to become a nurse, but to provide you with the skills to become an outstanding nurse, ready to contribute to a strong healthcare team and better patient outcomes.

The WGU B.S. Nursing (Prelicensure) curriculum was designed and is regularly updated with input from the experts on our Nursing Program Council, ensuring you learn what you need to know and master the skills you need to excel as a nurse and play your part on a vital team.

Pre-Nursing Courses (4 Terms)

• Critical Thinking: Reason and Evidence*
• Composition: Writing with a Strategy
• Integrated Physical Sciences
• Introduction to Communication: Connecting with Others
• Global Arts and Humanities 

*Course not eligible for transfer credit

Second Term

• Introduction to Chemistry
• Anatomy and Physiology I with Lab (within 5 years)
• Introduction to Psychology
• World History: Diverse Cultures and Global Connections
• Applied Healthcare Statistics
• Anatomy and Physiology II with Lab (within 5 years)
• Microbiology with Lab: A Fundamental Approach (within 5 years)
• Introduction to Sociology
• Health and Wellness Through Nutritional Sciences*

Fourth Term

• Applied Algebra
• Human Growth and Development
• Pathophysiology (within 5 years)
• Medical Dosage Calculations and Pharmacology*
• Foundations of Nursing*

Clinical Nursing Courses (4 Terms)

• Basic Nursing Skills (in-person lab course)
• Health Assessment
• Adult Health I*
• Intrapersonal Leadership and Professional Growth

*Clinical portion in this course

• Intermediate Nursing Skills (in-person lab course)
• Adult Health II*
• Women's and Children's Nursing*
• Scholarship in Nursing Practice
• Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing*
• Community Health and Population-Focused Nursing*
• Information Technology in Nursing Practice
• Organizational Systems and Healthcare Transformation
• Advanced Nursing Skills (virtual lab course)
• Adult Health III*
• Professional Nursing Role Transition*

Skills For Your Résumé

As part of this program, you will develop a range of valuable skills that employers are looking for. 

• Communications:  Successfully communicated effectively across diverse cultural contexts, fostering understanding and collaboration among individuals from different backgrounds.
• Critical Thinking:  Evaluated evidence based on specific criteria, ensuring the use of high-quality and reliable information for decision-making and problem-solving.
• Pathology:  Differentiated major types of microorganisms based on their structural and other characteristics, enhancing the ability to identify and address microbial challenges effectively.
• Physiology:  Demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of normal physiological functions of living organisms and their parts, providing a solid foundation for healthcare and biological studies.
• Problem Solving:  Analyzed complex medical problems skillfully, leading to the identification of optimal solutions and improved patient outcomes.
• Research:  Synthesized research information from multiple sources adeptly, enabling comprehensive and well-informed insights.

“My heart is with the Prelicensure BSN students who have chosen the noble profession of nursing as a career. Should you choose WGU to prepare you, know that this is the university of the future: It is affordable, it's flexible, and it offers learning based in competencies rather than just class time.”

—Brenda Cleary, Ph.D., RN, FAAN Adjunct Faculty University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill

PROGRAM EXPECTATIONS

Pre-Nursing and Clinical Nursing Coursework

Within the Prelicensure program at WGU, there are two sections for students to complete. The first section is pre-nursing, which include general education coursework, and introductory healthcare coursework. These satisfy prerequisites that students need to enter the clinical nursing portion of the program. Students then progress to the clinical nursing portion of the program, which contains specific nursing courses that prepare students for their careers.

Clinical and Lab Experience

You will work one-on-one with a clinical coach/preceptor (under the guidance of a WGU clinical instructor) to complete several “intensives” of clinical rotations. Your clinical coach/preceptor is an experienced staff nurse trained to help you throughout the duration of your rotations. Assessment of your clinical competence will be conducted by your WGU clinical instructors. Students will travel to lab twice during the program. Lab locations are assigned based on the student’s state of residence. Click below to learn more about clinical and lab experiences.

Program Coursework

The B.S. Nursing (Prelicensure) program requires that you work closely with WGU faculty and clinical coaches/preceptors. You will be expected to complete all required CUs assigned each 6-month term. Together with your Course Instructor and Program Mentor, you will decide when you are ready to complete course assessments.

The first person you speak with at WGU will be your Enrollment Counselor, an expert in your program who can explain all the requirements and expectations in more detail. You can also read more about each course in the Program Guide.

Admissions Requirements Unique to This Nursing Degree

Admission Requirements (for more information click on the live links below)

• HESI A2 Nursing Exam
• Background Check *
• Nursing Application Essay
• Active Nursing Prelicensure File (a short form found in your Enrollment Portal)

*Click the arrows below for more details about applying, the background check, and admissions.

Admission Requirements for the B.S. Nursing Prelicensure Program

The Leavitt School of Health at Western Governors University is committed to student success and partners with the WGU Office of Admissions to determine academic eligibility for the Prelicensure Nursing program. Applicants who submit all admission requirements will be reviewed through a weighted evaluation system that considers several factors. The Office of Admissions reviews all applicants based on their academic experience and nursing entrance exam scores.   

• Admission is competitive and not guaranteed; additional factors important to student success in the nursing program may also be considered.
• Admission to and enrollment in the Prelicensure Nursing program does not guarantee acceptance into the clinical nursing portion of the program.  
• Only residents of the following states are eligible to apply to this program. Prospective students seeking admission to the WGU Prelicensure Nursing program may apply to a district within their state of residence. Any applications from residents outside of these states will not be accepted.

Arkansas, Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin

To be considered for enrollment into the Prelicensure Nursing Program, applicants must possess a high school diploma or its equivalent, be at least 16 years of age (must be 18 at the time of clinical experiences), AND complete the following admission requirements:

• Complete the  HESI A2 nursing exam  within the last five years. You must receive a score of at least 75% in the following sections: Vocabulary, Reading, Math, and Grammar. HESI exams scheduled 9/1/2023 and beyond will also include a Biology section that will be graded but not included in the admissions review. The overall score will also not be considered in the admissions review. WGU will only consider two attempts at passing the HESI A2 exam per 12-month period. The 12-month period begins with the first attempt.
• Submit to a criminal background check through  American Databank . 
• Submit a Prelicensure Nursing Application Essay 
• Activate their Prelicensure Nursing File which includes a declaration of:
• The date and location an applicant is applying to
• Completed certifications
• Completed licenses
• Military service and training

Requirements that must be satisfied in pre-nursing terms to be eligible to progress to the clinical nursing program

There are costs outside of tuition and fees involved with creating your compliance account early in your pre-nursing terms and purchasing uniforms and supplies by the end of your last pre-nursing term. These costs will vary based on each item along with geographic location/provider.

Students who are successful in the pre-nursing terms will be eligible for progression into the nursing portion of the program. The following must be completed to be considered for progression into the nursing portion of the program: 

• Proof of health insurance†.
• Proof of successfully passing of a criminal background check (also may require a state background check to be completed per state regulatory requirements for nursing programs).
• Proof of successfully passing a urine drug test.
• Proof of a current immunization record and current negative TB test.
• Proof of meeting the specific physical requirements in accordance with the core performance standards of the nursing profession.
• Participation in the Nursing Progression Committee process.

Students in the pre-nursing term will be required to submit evidence of all of the requirements below to be considered for progression into the nursing portion of the program: 

Immunization Requirements

• Tetanus/Diphtheria and Pertussis vaccination
• Measles, Mumps, and Rubella vaccinations and Titer
• Varicella Zoster vaccination and Titer
• Hepatitis B vaccination and Titer
• Seasonal flu vaccination
• Additional immunizations may be required based on state and clinical requirements.

It is necessary to have the following physical abilities for the Clinical portion of the program: 

Essential Performance Standards/Clinical Nursing

• walk the equivalent of five miles per day
• reach above shoulder level
• hear tape recorded transcription and emergency monitors
• distinguish colors
• adapt to shift work
• sit and stand for long periods of time
• climb stairs
• lift 50 pounds
• perform CPR

If you have any questions about these required immunizations and physical requirements, please speak with an Enrollment Counselor.

† Note: Student malpractice insurance will be provided by WGU at no cost to you.

Background Check Details

1. Create your COMPLIO account. 2. Select Program: Prelicensure. 3. Select your state of residence. 4. Under "Optional Compliance Items" select: *Criminal Background Check: $52 (base package price)

Note: Do not select the Prelicensure Bundle or the Immunization Package.

Get Your Questions Answered

Talk to a WGU Enrollment Counselor.

Transfer Credits

Accredited,

Recognized™

One important measure of a degree’s value is the reputation of the university where it was earned. When employers, industry leaders, and academic experts hold your alma mater in high esteem, you reap the benefits of that respect. WGU is a pioneer in reinventing higher education for the 21st century, and our quality has been recognized.

The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master's degree program in nursing, and post-graduate APRN certificate program at WGU are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education ( http://www.ccneaccreditation.org ).

Unbelievably Low Tuition

By charging per term rather than per credit, WGU helps students control the ultimate cost of their degrees.

Other student responsibilities:

Uniforms: Approx. $150 plus shipping, handling, and applicable taxes. Uniforms do not have to be purchased through WGU. Lab kit fees: Approx. $250  Drug screen, background check, and immunization tracking system: $94, which includes one alias search; there will be a separate charge for each additional alias search, and due to expenses associated with accessing court documents, the fees for students in the following states will be as follows: MI ($10), NV ($12). All fees are subject to change.

Compliance fees will vary depending on the compliance items a student needs for placement. Generally (though subject to change), prices are as follows:

• ADB/Complio Background Check (varies by state – completed every 24 months) - $52 - $150
• ADB/Complio Immunization Tracking Package (varies by package term) - $25- $50
• ADB/Complio Drug Screen (varies by panel) - $36
• ADB/Complio HIPAA Training - $15
• ADB/Complio OSHA Training - $15
• Third-Party Onboarding (varies by vendor - MCE, ACEMAPP, TCPS, CPNW, etc.) - $25- $50

Additional fees to the student may include: fingerprints, physician office visits, titer screenings, immunizations, physical exams, eye exams, and any additional items required by the health facility. All prices subject to change.

Costs for Pre-Nursing (1-4 Terms)

Tuition per 6-month term

The first 4 terms of the prelicensure program consist of pre-nursing courses. There is an additional e-books and resources fee of $200 per six-month term.

Costs for Clinical Nursing (4 Terms)

At WGU, tuition is charged every six months. There is an additional e-books and resources fee of $200 per six-month term.

A Prelicensure Nursing Bachelor's Degree Is Within Reach

There is help available to make paying for school possible for you:

The average student loan debt of WGU graduates in 2022 (among those who borrowed) was less than half* the national average.

Most WGU students qualify for financial aid, and WGU is approved for federal financial aid and U.S. veterans benefits. 

Many scholarship opportunities are available. Find out what you might be eligible for.

* WGU undergraduate students have approximately half the debt at graduation compared to the national average, according to the Institute for College Access and Success (2022).

CLINICAL AND LAB EXPERIENCES

A Hands-On Nursing Preparation Program

Approximately 60% of this program is online coursework, with the remaining 40% as hands-on clinical and lab time.

Students must be available for three-week clinical windows for each clinical course and 5 weeks during your final clinical course. Preparation will be completed online under the guidance of a WGU Program Mentor and through mandatory attendance at high-fidelity clinical simulation learning labs.

• Cutting-edge clinical simulations, including virtual and high-fidelity simulations to develop clinical skills.
• Agency-based clinical rotations in hospitals and other key healthcare sites within the community.
• One-on-one guidance, supervision, and support in a busy, contemporary clinical setting with a clinical coach/preceptor—an experienced staff nurse and clinical expert.
• You will complete multiple clinical rotations each year, both in-hospital and community-based settings

WGU’s B.S. Prelicensure Nursing students will travel to clinical learning labs twice during the program. Clinical learning labs are approximately one week in length for each of the two sessions. There will also be one virtual lab (which includes two virtual meetings) that will not require travel to a facility.

Students must complete any additional compliance and onboarding items as indicated by an affiliation agreement with the partnering facility. Items may include, but are not limited to: N95 fit tests, COVID vaccines/boosters, colorblindness/eye exam, fingerprints, and other immunizations as indicated.

"I've always wanted to become a RN. I took the longest route to get here and now I'm 27 and finally accomplished my dream! All thanks to WGU for making a program that I could work and get my school work done.”

—Brittney Burns B.S. Nursing, Prelicensure

"I've always wanted to be a nurse. But I have found that traditional school never really worked for me. I found that teaching my self and working online was a better fit and by doing that I ended up getting back to back bachelor degrees. I realized that I enjoy learning just not the way schools were traditionally structured where you are always lectured to.

—Brian Cowan B.S. Nursing, Prelicensure

CAREER OUTLOOK

Your Path to Becoming a Nurse

You need your RN license to achieve your goal of being a nurse. Becoming a bachelor’s-prepared nurse as well will open the door to many opportunities—whether you want to serve on decision-making committees at your facility or desire greater employability at hospitals seeking Magnet status. 

Caring for others in their time of need has been your lifelong passion. It’s your heart and soul—it’s why you feel called to be a nurse. WGU’s nursing programs are designed around a philosophy and a conceptual model of nursing that recognizes the nurse’s diverse roles as detective, scientist, and healer.

We’re committed to our mission of forming “confident, caring, and competent professional nurses prepared to meet emerging healthcare needs of diverse populations.”   

Return on Your Investment

On average, wgu graduates see an increase in income post-graduation.

Average income increase from all degrees in annual salary vs. pre-enrollment salary. Source:  2023 Harris Poll Survey  of 1,655 WGU graduates.

Survey was sent to a representative sample of WGU graduates from all colleges. Respondents received at least one WGU degree since 2017.

Employment of nurses is projected to grow 7% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations.

—U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

WGU's BSN Grads are Working in Diverse, Fulfilling Roles

Our 20,000-plus Bachelor of Science Nursing alumni have great jobs and satisfying careers:

• Staff nurse
• Flight nurse
• Nurse case manager
• Public health nurse
• Forensic nurse

Diverse Industries

• Hospitals and medical centers
• Doctor’s offices and clinics
• U.S. military
• Public health departments
• Nonprofit organizations

Major Employers

• Intermountain Healthcare
• U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs
• Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
• Synergy Home Health
• HCA Healthcare
• Peace Health

WGU Grads Hold Positions With Top Employers

Hospitals and clinics around the country know the benefit of a degree from WGU, so your healthcare degree is valuable.

More About Prelicensure Nursing

• General Program Questions
• Financial Aid Questions

Common Questions About the Prelicensure Program

When does the program start?

The WGU BS Nursing Prelicensure program does not follow set start dates like other programs. We have sporadic start dates throughout the year within each geographic region inside each participating state. The clinical hospital partners that we work with determine when our cohorts will begin and the size of those cohorts. We encourage applicants to diligently work on completing their entire application to ensure they are eligible to be considered for as many cohort start dates as possible in their geographic area. You will only be considered for one start date at a time. Your  Enrollment Counselor  can provide specific location details.

How competitive is the program, and what are the chances of me being admitted?

Like most nursing programs, the B.S. Nursing Prelicensure program at WGU is competitive. WGU reviews a variety of factors when making an admission decision. WGU continues to focus on growth and this means obtaining new clinical hospital partnerships which allows us more space to enroll Nursing Prelicensure students. 

Will having a background in healthcare increase my chances of being admitted?

WGU reviews a variety of factors when making a Holistic admissions decision. Healthcare experience will be factored into the Holistic admission decision but experience in the healthcare realm is not a requirement for admission.

Can I find my own preceptor and arrange an individual clinical agreement with a location in my area to complete this program, since I do not live in any of the areas listed on the website?

At this time, we do not allow individuals to set up their own clinical arrangements. Clinical arrangements require a great deal of legal approval and contracts. WGU is committed to the growth of this program and we encourage you to check back in the future to see if we have expanded to your geographic area. 

I live outside the states listed for program availability. Can I travel to another state to complete the clinical and labs for this program?

Unfortunately, you must be living in one of the following states to be eligible to apply for this program. Any applications from individuals living outside one of the states listed will not be accepted.

Arkansas, Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virgnina, and Wisconsin

The prelicensure nursing program at WGU is constantly growing, and there will be more states where we are able to offer this program as we continue to grow. Check back often to see if your state has been added to the list of available areas, or talk to an Enrollment Counselor to learn more. 

Can I relocate once I am in the program if I decide to move to another state?

The BS Nursing Prelicensure program is set up to have the student complete the program in the state where they started the program. Once a WGU student, relocation to another state is not a guarantee due to cohort availability and competitiveness.

Is the BS Nursing – Prelicensure program a bridge program? (EX: LVN to RN, LVN to BSN, EMT to RN, accelerated BA/BS, Non nursing to BSN?)

The B.S. Nursing Prelicensure program is not a traditional bridge program. Our program is for individuals seeking to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and obtain the clinical hours required to sit for the NCLEX exam to become a registered nurse.

Can I pick the days and times I am available for clinical rotations and labs?

BS Nursing Prelicensure students will be assigned a set schedule outlining their lab and clinical requirements that they will be expected to follow.  Every WGU Nursing Prelicensure student is assigned a clinical coach/preceptor that they will work with one-on-one. Our clinical coaches/preceptors are experienced RN’s and our students will be assigned to work the schedule of their clinical coach/preceptor. This could include weekends, evenings and holidays.

How long is the program, and can I complete it faster?

The B.S. Nursing Prelicensure program has an expected pace of 4 years for completion. Students can accelerate some of their coursework, particularly the pre-nursing coursework, and may be able to complete their program faster.

Can I do my prerequisites at WGU?

Yes, you are now able to complete all of your prerequisite nursing courses at WGU. You can talk with your Enrollment Counselor about the specific courses in the program and possible transfer credit for previous college courses. 

Will I be able to earn a nursing license in my state with WGU's degree?

Completing an accredited nursing program, like our WGU B.S. Nursing Prelicensure offering, is a requirement to qualify to take the NCLEX exam. Upon successful completion of the NCLEX exam you can work toward applying for a license in the state you plan to work. We encourage you to connect with your state Board of Nursing website to verify specific state licensing information. 

Does WGU offer financial aid?

WGU is approved to offer  federal student aid . You will need to apply using the FAFSA, which is used to determine your eligibility for aid. WGU’s FAFSA school code is 033394.

Are there scholarships available?

Scholarships are available for new WGU students and returning graduates.  This video shows more  about scholarship opportunities and how they can help you pay for school. Get information on:

• How to apply
• Eligibility requirements
• Examples of scholarships
• What happens after you apply
• Other financial aid options

How does tuition work at WGU?

WGU's tuition is a flat rate that is charged every six months. You can take as many courses as you are able in that six-month term—with no extra cost. You simply pay for the term and do as much work as you can or want to during that time. This means that finishing faster helps you save money—a major benefit you won't find at most other schools. 

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What is the UH Future Nurse Academy?

The UH Future Nurse Academy is a two-week summer program designed to give high school students entering the 10th, 11th, or 12th grade a first-hand learning experience about the profession of nursing.

Start Your Application Today

About the Academy

This program will build on the student's existing talents, skills, and gifts preparing them for healthcare careers beyond high school. Students are nurtured with the thoughtful support of UH clinicians and partners. The two-week program includes visits to area college/university’s schools of nursing, while focusing on well-being techniques and hands-on experience to learn different nursing skills. Our ultimate goal is that students follow their dream of becoming healthcare professionals and stay in the Northeast Ohio area, where they grew up.

Students will learn:

• Approaches to problem-solving, critical thinking, executive functioning, and social and emotional skills necessary for success
• Health and wellness best practices
• Current technologies in nursing practice
• Hands-on learning
• Simulation lab experiences
• Best practices and strategies to address social determinants of health

Get Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

UH Future Nurse Academy Details

• East: June 17–28, Lakeland Community College
• Central: July 8–19, Cuyahoga Community College
• West: July 22–August 2, Lorain Community College
• Offsite Visits: Students will visit schools of nursing and healthcare centers.
• Mentorship: Students will be matched with mentors in their area of interest.
• Experiential Learning: Students will engage in hands-on experiences in their assigned work area.
• Support:  Students will receive a stipend, healthy meals, all materials needed for the program, and transportation to attend all offsite events.
• Financial Support: Students will earn a stipend for their full participation in our program.

Calendar of Events

• January 22: Applications available
• February 19: Applications due
• Early April: Applicants notified of status
• May: Orientation training sessions begin (days and times TBD)
• June 17, July 8 or July 22: Welcome and program kick-off; each of the 10 days will have a well-being activity. We will also be doing hands-on training, working with nurses at area hospitals, and visiting local nursing schools.

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Online Nursing Degree Programs

Are you ready to make an impact? With health care changing at an unprecedented rate, today’s nurses are predicted to hold greater responsibilities. The  U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics  estimates that health care occupations will grow much faster than the average for all occupations from 2022 to 2032, with about 1.8 million job openings projected each year.

Whether you’re taking the first steps toward a nursing degree, seeking to advance as a nurse or want to hone your craft with specialized study, there’s a path for you at Purdue Global’s School of Nursing. Our programs were designed so that you can easily balance your lives at home and work with school—without sacrificing the rigor and cutting-edge curriculum of a quality nursing education.

See Notes and Conditions for important information.­

What Area of Study Are You Interested In?

• Nursing Dual Degrees
• Nurse Practitioner
• Executive Leader

Online Nursing Programs

Nurses create change not only in the lives of individuals and their families, but society at large. They advocate for their patients above all else. They enjoy a growing job outlook due to increased emphasis on preventive care and a greater incidence of chronic illnesses, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Registered nurses are expected to see steady job growth through 2032, while nurse practitioners will see a 38% growth.

This program blends online instruction with clinical experience at a local health care facility in IA or ME. You'll develop the skills for patient care and learn effective communication practices. Prepare to sit for the NCLEX-RN® exam.

Learn how to deliver exceptional patient care to meet complex demands. This program focuses on research and emerging trends in therapies, community health and professional ethics. Pursue employment in numerous nursing and management specialties.

This program prepares you for clinical and leadership positions. Learn effective management techniques, methods of analyzing data and research and how to evaluate ethical factors in developing policies.

Earn the same Bachelor of Science RN-to-BSN degree, but faster and for less tuition. If you have previous college credit or experience and are motivated to learn independently, try our self-paced ExcelTrack® option.

Earn a Master of Science in Nursing degree, but faster and for less tuition. If you have previous college credit or experience and are motivated to learn independently, our self-paced ExcelTrack® option could be a great learning experience.

Customize your path with concentrations and prepare for leadership roles or advanced nursing practices in a variety of settings. The curriculum includes organizational theory, finance, health policy, human resources and health care systems.

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
• Family Nurse Practitioner, Primary Care
• Nurse Educator
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

If you have a bachelor's in nursing already, you can earn a Master of Science in Nursing in this program–and progress on to the Doctor of Nursing Practice program.

Online Nursing Dual Degree Programs

Earn two master’s degrees at once with our MSN dual degree programs. Build on the advanced nursing and leadership skills of an MSN with specialized knowledge of a second master’s in business administration, public health, or health care administration. Graduate with both degrees in less time than it takes to earn each by itself.

Earn an MSN and an MBA. This program provides you with advanced nursing skills and business proficiencies. The curriculum includes MSN and MBA courses, allowing you to earn both degrees in less time than it takes to earn each one separately.

Complete master's degrees in nursing and health care administration in one online program. Pursue executive leadership roles to make impactful change through management of health care organizations.

Complete master's degrees in nursing and public health in one online program. Pursue executive leadership roles to advocate and influence public health policy.

Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

Become proficient in providing effective care as part of a health care team while also advancing your career. If you’re a registered nurse already and hold a master’s degree in nursing, you’ll qualify for these certificate program.

Gain expertise in treating acutely ill adult patient populations with a focus on medical, surgical and critical care management. By the program's end, you'll be prepared to sit for the ANCC and AACN Nurse Practitioner Certificate exams.

Prepare to sit for the ANCC Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner or Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate exam, or the AANP Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner or Family Nurse Practitioner certifications.

Develop your skillset in evaluating the health and wellness of individuals and their families. In this program, you'll learn how to diagnose and manage various health problems, as well as new ways to serve as a strong patient advocate.

Learn how to diagnose, manage and treat psychiatric mental health conditions, brain disorders, substance abuse issues and co-occurring diseases. Focus on collaborative practices with both the patient and other professionals to provide holistic care.

Online Nurse Executive Leader Programs

Equip yourself with the skills to take on positions ranging from health facility administration to public health and policy, and be eligible for an array of rewarding positions in nursing leadership with an Executive Leader Postgraduate Certificate.

In this program, you'll focus on policy development and implementation, management, budgeting and the use of technology. The curriculum teaches you methods of leadership, organizational theory, and finance and strategic planning.

Nursing Program Accreditation and Honor Societies

CCNE Accreditation

The baccalaureate degree in nursing, master’s degree in nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice program, and the postgraduate APRN certificate programs at Purdue Global are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education ( www.CCNEAccreditation.org ).

Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing

As a student in the School of Nursing, you’ll have the opportunity to participate in  Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing . Committed to global health care, Sigma Theta Tau is overseen by an elected team of Purdue Global student leaders and volunteer faculty advisors who arrange events and encourage community engagement.

What Are the Admissions Requirements?

To get started as a Purdue Global student, you must meet certain academic requirements and complete an enrollment application. Here’s what you’ll need to begin:

For Undergraduate Programs

• GED or high school diploma for associate and bachelor's degrees

For Graduate Programs

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university for master's degrees and certificate programs

Want to know if online learning is right for you before you enroll? Watch our virtual campus tour to learn more.

Understanding Your Investment

Use our online calculator to estimate when you’ll finish your program—and see how your prior credits and experience can save you time and money.

Ready to Enroll?

Purdue Global makes the process easy. You can apply online today or contact us to walk you through the process.

Upcoming Start Dates

Gain a dedicated-to-you advisor.

From the moment you request information all the way to graduation, you’ll work with the same Advisor for 1-on-1, personalized support. The idea? Build a partnership with a deep understanding of your needs and career aspirations.

From registration and financial aid   to assistance throughout your degree journey, our Advisors are invested in supporting your success.

Take 3 Weeks to Get to Know Us

Start an undergraduate program with no financial obligation and no cost to apply.

Renita Irving

DNP Student

Find the Perfect Nursing Path for You

Explore your nursing career goals and options, and choose the program that best suits your needs.

Although nursing is one of the more well-known careers, there are quite a few misunderstandings about it.

If you’re considering a profession in nursing, there are some crucial things you’ll want to think about first.

Nurses with an RN-to-BSN degree are in high demand—and there are plenty of reasons the degree will be beneficial to you.

Which Program Is Right for You?

Discover your interests and set your goals for success. Take our Career Assessment to chart your ideal path.

Explore the benefits of earning your associate, graduate, or bachelor’s degree in nursing at Purdue Global.

Expert Faculty Offer Rich Experience

Our nursing faculty have decades of real-world experience, and many hold doctorates or advanced certifications. In fact, 98% of them hold at least a master’s degree.

Statistics include all Purdue Global faculty members and are not school or program-specific calculations. Source: Purdue Global Office of Reporting and Analysis, September 2021. 2020–2021 academic year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can definitely get a nursing degree online. Whether you choose to study at a university or at an online college of nursing, it’s not only possible to earn your nursing degree virtually—it’s smart. Learning online can help you save on tuition costs and give you greater control of your time.

Most of today’s online nursing degree programs are widely accepted, well-respected sources for beginning a nursing career, advancing your current credentials, or keeping your nursing skills up-to-date. Whatever level of the nursing profession you’re in, there’s an online program designed for you.

You can get your nursing career started by earning an associate’s degree (ASN) or completing a prelicensure bachelor’s degree program. After that, you can advance your career expertise with an online RN-to-BSN, Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).

To become a licensed RN, you must graduate from a nursing program (such as Purdue Global’s ASN, available only to students in Iowa, Maine, and Nebraska) and then pass the national nursing licensure exam, NCLEX-RN. This process is exactly the same whether you attend a traditional on-campus or online nursing school.

Employers today realize that graduates with online nursing degrees have the same quality academic and clinical education and training as their on-campus counterparts. They understand that most students choose to earn a nursing degree online for the flexibility it gives them to study wherever and whenever works best for their schedule—and help them achieve their goals sooner.

While online nursing programs deliver coursework fully online, most require a live clinical or practicum experience where you can apply the knowledge you’ve gained in the classroom. Purdue Global degrees allow you to complete these practice experiences where you work, or at a participating health facility in your community.

Our School of Nursing, founded in 2004, was among the first to offer a wide range of accredited online nursing degrees. Purdue Global’s baccalaureate degree in nursing, master’s degree in nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice program, and the postgraduate APRN certificate programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education ( www.CCNEAccreditation.org ). Accreditation by the CCNE tells you that Purdue Global programs meet national standards for upholding quality and rigor in nursing education.

See Notes and Conditions for important information.

For years, the types of nursing degrees have been expanding to meet the needs of a changing health care system. Due to shortages of nurses and a shrinking number of family physicians, nurses now have opportunities to take on a wide variety of roles. Getting the proper education and training is paramount to your success as a nurse. Health care roles are available for a variety of nursing education and experience levels.

To begin your nursing career, you could earn a  licensed practical nurse (LPN)  certificate or diploma, which usually takes 1 year of full-time study to complete. An LPN’s role is limited compared to a registered nurse (RN), but you’ll still perform important patient-care duties, including monitoring patient health, assisting with tests or procedures, recording patient histories, consulting with RNs, and more.

The  Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN)  takes about 1.5 to 2 years of full-time study to earn at many universities, community colleges, and career-focused schools. Upon successful completion of your ASN degree, you can apply to sit for the national licensure exam known as the NCLEX-RN ®  exam. After passing your NCLEX exam and becoming a registered nurse (RN), you are prepared to pursue work in a variety of health care settings including:

• Emergency nursing
• Peri-, intra-, and postoperative nursing
• Family practice, geriatric, and adult-health nursing
• Maternal, infant, and pediatric nursing
• Mental health nursing
• Medical-surgical nursing

A  Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)  is the next step for RNs seeking to enhance their skills and pursue advanced roles. Many people choose to earn their ASN first and then return for their bachelor’s after working for a few years as a licensed RN. Health care employers often require a bachelor’s degree in nursing, and some employers are giving RNs a deadline to earn theirs. If you’re already a working RN, completing your RN-to-BSN degree—on-campus or online—is a smart way to get ahead.

Enrolling in an  RN-to-BSN  program prepares you for greater responsibilities and gives you the academic credentials to seek advanced nursing career paths. You can work in areas such as:

• Community education and public health
• Nursing case management
• Nursing management and leadership
• Patient care coordination
• Nonhospital employment opportunities
• Health care administration

The next level of nursing education is the  Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) , which builds on your prior learning and practical experience with leadership and independent-practice opportunities. Purdue Global’s online MSN includes specialized courses in organizational theory, health care finance, health policy, human resources, information technology, and health care systems. You can specialize in one of multiple pathways aligned to specific advanced nursing roles. There’s even an MSN with a direct pathway to a doctoral degree in nursing (DNP). Popular nursing career options for master’s degree graduates include:

• Directors of nursing
• Medical and health services managers
• Postsecondary nursing instructors and teachers
• Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), including nurse practitioners
• Nurse educators

Finally, the  Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)  is a terminal nursing degree that prepares nursing leaders to practice at the highest levels of the profession. It’s possible to complete your DNP program online while you continue to work. As a graduate, you can pursue careers in executive leadership and a variety of advanced practice nursing roles. APRN roles include:

• Nurse practitioners
• Certified nurse-midwives
• Certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs)
• Clinical nurse specialists (CNSs)

Our School of Nursing also offers online postgraduate certificates for advanced-practice nurses, including adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner, family nurse practitioner, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, and executive leader.

Many online nursing programs today offer the same rigorous, rewarding experience as brick-and-mortar nursing schools—without the commute or inconvenient class hours.

Returning to campus can be a bit intimidating for nurses who’ve been away from school for several years, and the challenges of balancing work and family with school can make taking nursing classes online very appealing. This is why a growing number of students are choosing to study nursing online for the more flexible course experience it offers.

As an online nursing school student, strong organizational and time management skills are especially important. The only equipment you’ll need to get started is a computer, an internet connection, and any class software that may be required. You must be ready to participate in online seminars and communicate about the material with instructors and fellow students via email and discussion boards. In an online learning setting, you’ll be evaluated by the level and substance of participation on these discussion boards, as well as on your course assignments throughout the term.

You’ll also need to become comfortable accessing online  academic support services .

The clinical practice experiences within our undergraduate and graduate nursing programs will help you apply the knowledge you’ve gained in class to a real-world setting. They provide enriching training opportunities to support your academic and career goals. You can complete these experiences where you work, or work with our skilled clinical placement team to help you locate an approved health facility in your community.

Our MSN and RN-to-BSN online nursing programs offer a number of ways to complete your clinical practice experience:

• Engage in patient simulation (face-to-face or virtually)
• Develop nursing protocols or tools for specific patient populations
• Meet with nurse leaders in the community
• Assess different patient populations
• Work with nursing staff in a patient care environment to implement new protocols or procedures

Our blog has even more specifics on  how online nursing programs work at Purdue Global .

Yes, many online nursing school programs are accredited, including those offered by Purdue Global. But you must do your due diligence and research the accreditation status of each institution you are considering.

Accredited nursing programs qualify graduates to sit for industry licensing and certification exams, including the NCLEX-RN ® , which must be passed to practice as a registered nurse. Accreditation tells you that an impartial agency recognized by the Department of Education (DOE) has validated the nursing program for quality and rigor.

When evaluating accredited online nursing programs, consider which university or college is offering the program and see whether the school itself is accredited—and, if so, by which accrediting body. Purdue Global is accredited by the  Higher Learning Commission  (HLC), an institutional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. The HLC is one of six regional institutional accreditors, covering degree-granting postsecondary educational institutions in the North Central region of the U.S.

Purdue Global’s associate’s degree in nursing is approved by the boards of nursing in Iowa and Maine. Additionally, the baccalaureate degree in nursing, master’s degree in nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice program, and the postgraduate APRN certificate programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education ( www.CCNEAccreditation.org ).

CCNE-accredited programs assure you of the quality and integrity of an institution’s undergraduate, graduate, and residency programs in nursing. Our School of Nursing hosts regular, formal visits from the CCNE to maintain accreditation of its programs.

Another organization that accredits online nursing schools in the U.S. is the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), which covers nursing programs at all levels, from diplomas to doctoral degrees. Typically, most programs aim to earn accreditation from either CCNE or ACEN.

In addition to choosing an accredited online nursing program, you should be sure your program meets the educational requirements of the Board of Nursing in the state where you want to practice. You must complete a program that fulfills your State Board of Nursing’s academic requirements to apply for your nursing license.

Visit the Accreditation page for more more details .

How many years of school it will take to become a nurse depends on where you are in your educational journey and career, and the level of nursing degree you wish to pursue.

Here’s a look at the requirements for each online nursing program at Purdue Global.

The  Associate of Science in Nursing  (ASN) consists of 116 quarter credit hours. Typically, students can complete the program in as few as 18 months of full-time study.

The  RN-to-Bachelor of Science in Nursing  (RN-to-BSN) consists of 180 quarter credit hours. Admission requires a license to practice as a registered nurse, as well as an associate's degree, diploma, or certificate in nursing. Your time to completion will partially depend on if you enroll in our traditional RN-to-BSN program, or if you enroll in the ExcelTrack™ version, a competency-based accelerated pathway. On average, students complete their RN-to-BSN in as few as 18 months of full-time study.

The  Master of Science in Nursing  (MSN) consists of 60 to 90 quarter credit hours, depending on the pathway you choose, and the MSN–MBA dual degree option consists of 88 quarter credit hours. A bachelor’s in nursing is required. You can complete the MSN in as few as 18 to 24 months of full-time study, while the MSN–MBA dual degree can be completed in as few as 2.5 years.

The  Doctor of Nursing Practice  (DNP) consists of 48 to 60 quarter credit hours, depending on your prior degree. A master’s in nursing is required. You can complete the DNP through our MSN-to-DNP path to save time. On average, our students complete their DNP in as few as 18 months.

Postgraduate Certificates: Our CCNE-approved programs can prepare you to become a nurse practitioner or apply new expertise to your career. Certificates consist of 30 to 60 quarter credit hours. A master’s in nursing is required.

You can read more about the time it takes to  progress your nursing career  on our blog.

There are many career paths in nursing. To find the type of nursing that’s right for you, it’s important that you read up about the available options to help identify your career preferences.

Your personal strengths, professional skills, and the patient population you want to care for will help determine your nursing career path. You can start by becoming a registered nurse (RN) after earning your associate’s degree in nursing, a general nursing degree that prepares you for a wide variety of nursing roles.

Next, you must take and pass the national licensure exam (NCLEX-RN ® ) to become registered to practice as an RN in a variety of settings. The needs of the organization where you work, and job availability, will determine where you practice at this stage. After gaining some on-the-job training, you’ll be ready to consider additional certification.

With an undergraduate nursing degree, you can pursue a career as a neonatal nurse, clinical nurse, critical care nurse, dialysis nurse, ER nurse, informatic nurse, geriatric nurse, nurse advocate, pain management nurse, pediatric nurse, psychiatric nurse, oncology nurse, telehealth nurse, and more.

With a graduate nursing degree and more experience, you could pursue work as a nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, clinical nurse specialist, certified registered nurse anesthetist, nurse educator, travel nurse, or trauma nurse, or serve in a research or public health role, among other opportunities.

Degree specializations assure health institutions and patients alike that you are highly knowledgeable and competent in a specific area of expertise. Many professional nursing organizations provide specialty certifications in nursing. Read Purdue Global’s  list of nursing specialties  to learn more.

Whichever nursing role you pursue, you’ll be part of a growing field with a recognized shortage of qualified professionals.

When evaluating your nursing career options, also consider the state in which you intend to practice. Check to see what your state licensure requirements are and which nursing roles are in demand where you live.

Your Path to Success Begins Here

Connect with an Advisor to explore program requirements, curriculum, credit for prior learning process, and financial aid options.

Associate's, Master's, and DNP Completion Time:  Completion times are based on a full-time schedule. Programs will take longer for part-time students to complete. For the DNP program, the time to complete the program may vary depending on the number of supervised practice hours you bring into the program at the time of enrollment. Bachelor's Completion Time:  Completion time based on a full-time student with a prior associate’s degree. Programs will take longer for part-time students, students who take leaves of absence or drop and return, and students with a prior diploma/certificate to complete. The number of required credits may vary depending on individual state education requirements, which could affect how long it will take to complete the program. More than 60% of 2019–2020 graduates completed the program in 18 months or less (Source: Purdue Global Office of Reporting and Analysis, July 2020).

Average MSN-MBA Completion Time: Completion time based on a full-time schedule of 17 terms. Program will take longer for part-time students to complete. Students are required to change calendar tracks twice in order to complete the courses required. When this occurs, you may experience a delay of 2 weeks or more between the end of the term and the beginning of the next available term in the alternate calendar.

Employment and Career Advancement: Purdue Global cannot guarantee employment or career advancement. Actual outcomes vary by geographic area, previous work experience, and opportunities for employment. Prior experience may be required for leadership roles. Graduates must meet state licensing and certification requirements and pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a registered nurse or the NCLEX-PN to become a licensed practical nurse. NCLEX is a registered trademark of the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, Inc. Licensure-track programs may limit enrollment to students in certain states. Refer to Purdue Global’s State Licensure and Certifications page for state-specific licensure information.

ExcelTrack ® Degree Pace: ExcelTrack ® is designed to advance your progress based on existing knowledge; however, degree pace and time and cost savings will vary by individual. Students must enroll in a minimum number of credits per term to remain eligible for financial aid. Refer to the Financial Information section of the University Catalog for additional information.

Financial Aid: Financial aid is available to those who qualify. Financial aid awards vary depending on individual student eligibility and need.

Job Growth Predictions: U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Healthcare Occupations , Registered Nurses , and Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Midwives, and Nurse Practitioners . National long-term projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.­ 

NCLEX Exam: Upon successful completion of the program of study, students may be academically prepared to apply to take the national licensure examination for registered nurses (NCLEX-RN ® ). The University cannot guarantee students will be eligible to sit for or pass exams. Refer to Purdue Global’s State Licensure and Certifications page for state-specific licensure information. NCLEX is a registered trademark of the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, Inc.

Certification Exams: Students are responsible for understanding the requirements of optional certification exams. The University cannot guarantee students will be eligible to sit for or pass exams. In some cases, work experience, additional coursework beyond the Purdue Global program, fieldwork, and/or background checks may be necessary to be eligible to take or to successfully pass the exams.

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Online Nursing Options

Need your questions answered, health care education at your fingertips.

Designed to accommodate your busy schedule, the online education options at the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing offer learning opportunities to those considering a health care career, specializing in a nursing field, or taking the next step to an advanced, evidence-based education to improve health care outcomes.

Degree Programs

The MSN Healthcare Organizational Leadership track opens doors to leadership positions in health education, program development, consultation, and administration. Developed and directed by internationally-recognized Johns Hopkins nursing faculty, the program taps nursing’s unique perspective at the front line of patient care to manage, evaluate, and improve an evolving health care delivery system.

• MSN Healthcare organizational leadership/MBA
• Post-Master’s Healthcare organizational leadership certificate

DNP Advanced Practice

Become a nurse practitioner in the DNP Advanced Practice track at Johns Hopkins Schoolof Nursing. Unlock the unlimited potential of an advanced nursing career and build close relationships with our world-renowned faculty. You will network with other emerging nurse leaders in your cohort and graduate ready to change the health care system and advance thenursing profession. *Online program with onsite immersions.

• Adult-Gerontological acute care np
• Adult-Gerontological Primary Care NP
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• PEDIATRIC DUAL PRIMARY/ACUTE CARE NP
• Psychiatric Mental Health NP

• DNP Executive

Get the analytic skills and evidence-based practice principles you need in the DNP Executive track at Johns Hopkins. You’ll address significant healthcare problems-defined by your interests and based on your experience-in real time and in your practice setting. You will forge your own intellectual path and wrap up your curriculum with an intense final project experience. *Online program with onsite immersions.

Post-degree

Become a nurse practitioner or nurse anesthetist in the DNP Advanced Practice track at Johns Hopkins Schoolof Nursing. Unlock the unlimited potential of an advanced nursing career and build close relationships with our world-renowned faculty. You will network with other emerging nurse leaders in your cohort and graduate ready to change the health care system and advance thenursing profession.

Healthcare Organizational Leadership Certificate

Nurse Educator Certificate

Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Prerequisites

Start your health care education early by taking your health prerequisites online at the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing.

STATE-SPECIFIC INFORMATION FOR ONLINE PROGRAMS

Students should be aware of additional state-specific information for online programs. Please see individual track web pages for state restrictions or contact an admissions representative.

Student Sponsorship

Online Degree Programs and Post Master’s Certificates do not qualify for F-1 or J-1 student sponsorship. Legal Permanent Residents and non-immigrants who are otherwise physically present in the U.S. and in a status that allows for full or part-time study, may pursue these program.

12 Steps To Prepare For Nursing School While In High School (PLUS Pro Tips)

Are you a high school student with dreams of becoming a registered nurse? Do you feel overwhelmed with all the information there is to consider and wish there was a way to begin the process? Maybe you wonder, “Can someone tell me how to prepare for nursing school while in high school?” Because I have been where you are and understand how you feel, I want to share 12 steps and pro tips to successfully prepare for nursing school while in high school. By following these simple steps, you can get on track and prepare to transition to nursing school after earning your high school diploma.

How to Prepare for Nursing School While in High School?

Step #1: make sure you take the right classes while in high school, about the step:, step #2: get cpr and first aid certified, step #3: get volunteer experience in healthcare settings, step #4: consider whether you should attempt earning credits through dual enrollment, step #5: research different types of nursing degrees, step #6: find out admission requirements for the programs that interest you, step #7: take the act and/or sat, step #8: talk to your high school advisor about scholarships and financial aid opportunities, step #9: research several nursing schools, step #10: prepare for the hesi exam, step #11: get a part-time job at a hospital or doctor’s office, step #12: apply to colleges early, my final thoughts.

8 Summer Programs For Nursing Aspirants In High School

After a long scholastic session of nine months, the inception of summer vacation is an exceptional feeling. Students often try to enjoy these holidays. However, making proper use of them is always a cut above. Some may prefer workshops, while others prefer creating assignments. Amid a number of options available, nursing programs can be a great idea. 

A lot of summer nursing programs are handy today and you might be bewildered to find a befitting way out. This can be especially advantageous for students who want to make a career in this branch. In this context, let us ponder our best picks. Before this, let’s explore why nursing programs form the best summer fillers. 

Summer Nursing Programs- Why Should You Opt For It?

Nursing programs are one-of-a-kind training that proffers candidates with medical procedures, especially in emergencies. Apart from this, summer nurse programs have the following  value additions: 

• Profound exertion of summer vacation

Students wait eagerly for the summer break. It is all good and happy for a few days until the child starts getting bored. This feeling of monotony can be mitigated by effective exertion via summer programs like nursing. 

• Special recognition in Academics

Not only to pick up expertise, but nursing programs can also sometimes earn you some supplemental grades. Auxiliary credits are always an add-on academically. 

• Mastering first aid is crucial

No one can envisage when medical emergencies emerge; thus, first aid is to be assimilated by everyone. Knowing how to stop bleeding, dressing a lesion, and assisting a wounded person can always be beneficial.

• Can gain you a medical mentor

A nursing program can gain you a mentor. These advisors can assist you in reading towards becoming a nurse. You can also gain a sterling medical consultant for you and your family. 

• This may result in future job

Every program offers the candidate a certification upon completion. At the same time, the experience makes you familiar with the profession, and the certificates, and credits, if any, can get you a step closer to your nurse goal and can land you a job too.  

Summer Programs For Nursing Aspirants

1. nslc program .

The National Student Leadership Conference (NSLC) on nursing is a nine-day program that focuses on developing relevant skills required to provide high-quality patient-centered health care with hands-on experience of being a nurse. The program is adorned with state-of-the-art simulation labs, providing a virtual interface to learn to deal with patients. The highlights of the course include Midwifery Lab, Mock code, and certification of CPR.

At NSLC, candidates can develop the necessary skills to offer high-quality patient-centered health care by attaining insights into the careers available in medical fields especially nursing to gain hands-on experience with real-life nursing challenges. The delivery of a baby simulation in a midwifery lab and the technique of intubations for breathing challenges, bedside assistance, and many more basics can be mastered effortlessly. Interested students or their parents can speak to the NSLC enrollment office. 

2. Nursing Summer Camp

If you are looking for a small nursing program, Liberty University Nurse Summer Camp can be your pick.  This three-day camp from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day pledges to provide the ultimate opportunity to experience nursing through the theological worldview. With almost 50 years of experience in tutoring, Liberty University forms a reliable pick of programs. You can contact them via phone or email ID for admission.

These camps hosted by Liberty University ensure hands-on experience for all the campers. For instance, dim light experiments and examples demonstrate how germs are left on hands even after washing.  Dr. Kathryn Miller, the executive director of clinical affairs offers friendly relations to all the students ensuring them to attain huge life decisions and professional knowledge. Basic yet Pivotal nursing duties like Creating a splint, CPR certifications, and many more are preached live generating interest.   

3. Introduction to Nursing – Adelphi University

Adelphi University offers an Introduction to Nursing Program to clinch hands-on experience of being a nurse. This tentatively scheduled program offers multiple batch options for students to select from. This glimpse of a nursing career promises to offer a chance to explore the roles of a registered nurse. These may include classwork, simulation lab exercises, quality nursing care, patient safety, and clinical reasoning skills. Apart from CPR certification from the American Heart Association, this program lets candidates engage in Clinical Education and Simulation labs and understand different areas of clinical prowess like nutrition, medical-surgical, older adult, pediatrics, and public health.

Being a university with a Uniquely personalized approach to learning, Adelphi Focuses on student success with a warm community. Being ranked among the top colleges in the US, nursing courses here can have impeccable value. On the other hand, the atmosphere and teaching styles are also unique and reliable here, being equipped with smaller classrooms, ensures specialized training. 

4. Della Keats Health Sciences Summer Program

The University of Alaska Anchorage hosts the Della Keats Health Sciences summer program for students interested in medical professions. This is a volunteer program that commences for 4-6 months in the months of June and July; aspirants can stay at residence halls at the university and avail food and miscellaneous benefits.

Being from the only national university of Alaska, this course satisfies the high-demand nurse aspirants of the region.  Evidently, foreign students are also welcome. With top-notch preaching styles and interactive professors, this course can be a great take-in for all aspirants. Fortunately, about 80 out of 100 candidates are accepted, and thus not taxing to get an opportunity either.

5. Arizona State University Residential Program

Arizona State University is known for its nursing and health innovation program, one of the top-ranked in the United States. Its wing, Arizona State University Summer Health Institute, offers a residential program for high school students. To avail of this, the student needs to clear their junior year. This summer enrichment program provides participants an experience with a variety of healthcare activities and practices like suturing, IVs, intubation, and scrubbing, along with three hours of simulation work. This program is held in July for one week. <THIN>

Believed to be a fun yet a forward-thinking university, ASU (Arizona State University) is huge to replicate a small city. With Hundreds of faculties and thousands of alumni, it has packed a separate privilege. Being a part of such a university can be favorable not only academically but also socially. Students, there are fond of hygiene and food which makes the university a good take for residential programs. 

6. Junior Volunteer Program

Arkansas Children’s Hospital, a well-known pediatric medical center in Arkansas, offers junior volunteer programs to all aspiring high schoolers. Available in both school-year and summer programs, it is a four-hour day program that extends for 2 weeks. Being one of the largest pediatric centers in the country, their certification can greatly value candidates.

Having four different children specialties (Urology, Cancer, Cardiology, and Otolaryngology) Arkansas Hospital can be a good option for those aspirants who like pragmatic training. Evidently, students may not be allowed into service directly, but they may notice and make note of various relevant practices taken to ameliorate treatment. This makes learning worthwhile.

This 2-week program offered by the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences can be a good pick for junior as well as senior high school students. Candidates learn first aid, and CPR along with experience of volunteering. This full-time summer program lets students work and associate directly with healthcare professionals and educators. The 2021 session of HEALERS was canceled due to COVID restrictions but will be made available for the coming years under normal circumstances.

Some fascinating features make HEALERS a unique pick in this list. Students not only learn to perform first aid in various situations but also get a chance to interact with professionals regarding CPR and other medical terminology. While acting as volunteers, students also become aware of teenage health issues and how to deal with them based on scientific data. This way personal care is also given equal significance.

8. Health Professions Summer Academy Programs

The University of South Florida hosts a Health Professions Summer Academy Program every year with the goal of preparing students for a career in the health industry. This 2-week program includes academic courses and also facilitates visits to local hospitals and institutions that offer medical programs.

Starting with comprehension of basic sciences, various quantitative topics like nursing skills and practicing methods are demonstrated in small-group clinical rotations and full-group clinical seminars. For those aspiring to careers in medical professions, this program including financial planning workshops and health policy seminars can be constructive.

Whether they choose a medical career or not, nursing programs stay crucial to all high schoolers.  Evidently, dedicating a few days to a nifty program is reposeful. You can also check out summer nursing programs at Hawaii Pacific Health , KentuckyOne Health , and Maine medical center. Not only in hospitals, nurses are also gaining crucial roles in clinical research. By completing an RN to BS in Nursing degree program one can turn up towards research. All these postulates elucidate that nursing is not a tender profession. If you aspire to be one, try these programs to comprehend basic medical practices. 

Sananda Bhattacharya, Chief Editor of TheHighSchooler, is dedicated to enhancing operations and growth. With degrees in Literature and Asian Studies from Presidency University, Kolkata, she leverages her educational and innovative background to shape TheHighSchooler into a pivotal resource hub. Providing valuable insights, practical activities, and guidance on school life, graduation, scholarships, and more, Sananda’s leadership enriches the journey of high school students.

Explore a plethora of invaluable resources and insights tailored for high schoolers at TheHighSchooler, under the guidance of Sananda Bhattacharya’s expertise. You can follow her on Linkedin

2 thoughts on “8 Summer Programs For Nursing Aspirants In High School”

I just want to ask, is the program for high schoolers. I’m in year 11 17 years old. for my future I want to become a nurse and I think this program would be a good benefit.

I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Marina. Yacoub

Yes, this list is curated for students in high school. Still, I would recommend doing thorough research before applying to any program.

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Master's Degree

Online Direct Entry MSN Program for Non-Nurses

CLASSES START Sep 4th

20-24 Mo. Program Length	60-77 Credits
Online Format	DNP Dual Credit

Waived Enrollment Fee

Go from non-nursing to MSN in our direct entry program

Accreditation	CCNE accredited, Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Format	100% online didactic classes, including both on-demand and real-time learning with flexible scheduling; the hybrid format includes labs and simulations held at our campus; the online format includes three 2-4 day intensives at our Nashville campus
Admissions	Designed for non-nurses; non-nursing bachelor's degree required for admissions
Eligibility	Available for enrollment in select states
DNP Dual Credit	Earn dual credit towards a
QuickPaths	Build a foundation to pursue an advanced specialty in a future ; transfer credit, stackable credentials, and adaptive learning technology build a faster pathway to a higher education with Herzing

Ranked by U.S. News & World Report as one of the best online graduate nursing programs in 2024

Overview: Online MSN - Direct Entry Program

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Direct Entry degree is a 60-77 credit graduate program which prepares non-nursing majors for a career as an MSN-prepared Registered Nurse (RN). The degree program provides students with fundamental knowledge and skills in pathophysiology & pharmacology, scholarly practice, mental health nursing, nursing informatics and healthcare technology, population health, and much more.

Career-focused curriculum

Discover the crucial knowledge and skills required to succeed in your work and build a foundation for continued career growth.

Flexible schedule

We work hard to help you maintain school-life balance, striving to be as flexible as possible for busy non-traditional students.

Virtual services

Access to extensive virtual services, including academic advising, tutoring, support services, technical support and library services.

Lifelong support

We support your ongoing career advancement by providing comprehensive, personalized student services with lifelong career coaching.

Rolling admissions

No application deadlines to worry about. Apply when you’re ready and prepare to get started soon.

Classes Start September 4th

Learn More Today

Direct Entry MSN program classes & curriculum details

Due to the rigorous nature of the online direct entry MSN pathway, we implemented several benchmarks to ensure you’re on track to successfully complete the program, develop the knowledge and skills you need to excel as an RN, and position yourself for career advancement.

Program	Months	Credits
Master of Science in Nursing - Direct Entry	20-24	60-77

Students who meet the undergraduate general education requirements can complete the program in as little as 20 months (60 credits). For those who do not have the required undergraduate general education credits, this program is a minimum of 77 credits and can be completed in 24 months.

Required Undergraduate Pre-Requisite Core Courses

17.00 semester credit hours are required. The following courses, or the equivalent, must be successfully completed prior to entry in the core nursing courses:

Note: Students must earn a "B" or better in both the SC 154 Anatomy and Physiology I for Nurses and SC 254 Anatomy and Physiology II for Nurses courses.

Required Courses in Nursing

60.00 semester credit hours are required.

How it Works

What's online, and what's in-person?

All online didactic, lecture-style courses may be completed asynchronously (24/7 on your schedule) through the Herzing University Canvas Learning Management System.

Clinical instructor and peer collaboration requirements will be done via synchronous (live) distance learning, which will be required at times throughout the program.

Our online classes provide the foundational nursing knowledge and skills you need to prepare for in-person clinicals and intensives.

Practical, hands-on training supplements your online learning to provide the well-rounded education you need to succeed as an MSN-prepared RN. Our curriculum includes:

• Clinicals . You’ll complete a total of 585 clinical hours over the course of the Direct Entry MSN program. We use a precepted model for student clinical experiences in our online nursing programs, and we have a dedicated team to help you find clinical placement.
• Labs, clinicals, and/or intensives . You will attend three 2-4 day intensives at our Nashville campus if you elect the online format. They will include skills introduction, skills checks, testing and faculty advisement to ensure you’re on the right track. The hybrid format includes labs and simulations held at our Kenosha campus .

Tuition and Cost

Tuition & Cost

The cost of tuition for the MSN - Direct Entry program is $775 per credit .

You can potentially earn even greater savings by transferring credit from prior college coursework, applying for financial aid, or potential partnership opportunities through your employer.

Our goal is your career advancement . That’s why we are always working to improve our curriculum and processes to make our program as affordable as possible while preparing you best for success in your work.

Find my estimate

You may be eligible for multiple scholarships and grants—including our Nurses Circle of Achievement scholarship, which offers up to 10% tuition reduction.

Find scholarships and grants 

Veterans, Active Duty U.S. Servicemembers, and spouses may qualify for a 10% tuition discount or tuition reduction to $250 per credit.

VA/Military benefits 

Requirements

MSN Direct Entry enrollment requirements

Prerequisites to enroll in the Herzing Direct Entry MSN program include:

Prior education	Evidence of graduation from a non-nursing bachelor’s degree program awarded by an accredited institution of higher education
Minimum GPA	3.0 GPA
Entrance testing	Aggregate score of 66 on the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS). No GRE required.
i. Students will be assessed on their collegiate cumulative GPA from either a non-nursing bachelor’s degree or master’s degree program.

Prerequisite courses

The following courses, or the equivalent, must be successfully completed prior to entry in the Master of Science in Nursing - Direct Entry core nursing courses:

Statistics	3 credits
Anatomy & Physiology I	4 credits; must earn “B” or better
Anatomy & Physiology II	4 credits; must earn “B” or better
Chemistry	3 credits
Microbiology	3 credits

Alternative entry points : if your GPA is too low, or you do not hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, you may also consider several undergraduate nursing degree options. We offer nursing programs at the bachelor’s, associate, and diploma levels—if you want to become a nurse, we offer a pathway to help you start your journey.

Eligible states for enrollment:

• Louisiana i
• Minnesota i
• Mississippi i
• North Carolina
• South Carolina
• South Dakota

i Limited to 100 mile radius of physical campus (Minneapolis, New Orleans).

Meet Our Leadership

Meet our Leadership

Dr. tricia wagner dnp, aprn-bc.

"The MSN Direct Entry is a great program for someone who is looking at a career change, second career, or has been a displaced worker.

The degree provides a long list of opportunities after graduation in combination with success on the NCLEX-RN. This dream can be a reality in less than 2 years!"

A leader, educator, and advanced practice nurse that currently serves as the Associate Dean of Nursing for Graduate Programs, Dr. Wagner has a practice specialty as both an adult-gerontology and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She completed her Diploma RN and BSN in Springfield, Missouri and her MSN and DNP through the University of South Alabama, Mobile. She has 30 years’ experience in healthcare with 20 years as a nursing executive in both academia and healthcare organizations. She has been ensuring that nurses have the opportunity to reach their desired education potential for many years.

Dr. Tricia Wagner

Associate Dean of Nursing for Graduate Programs

Job outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) , employment of registered nurses is expected to increase 9% from 2020-2030.*

Now is an excellent time to begin working towards becoming an RN with goals of advancing even higher.

Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN) are also projected to be in very high demand in coming years. The BLS expects employment of nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nurse practitioners to greatly increase—largely boosted by a 45% growth estimate for nurse practitioners from 2022-2032 .*

What can you do with an MSN?

The purpose of our Direct Entry MSN program is to fully prepare you to take the NCLEX-RN and become a Registered Nurse (RN) .

The Direct Entry MSN pathway is designed to expedite the process for students who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree.

While a master’s degree is not required to become an RN, a master’s-level education gives you a head start on advancing your nursing career .

Earning an MSN opens doors to many possibilities in advanced practice nursing. This is an opportunity for you to pursue graduate-level nursing pathways and minimize your cost and time.

Advance to the highest levels faster

By committing to the MSN pathway right from the start, you can position yourself best for graduate-level specialization in the future.

Upon graduation, you can potentially leverage your MSN into post master’s certificate programs in several different specialties:

Frequently Asked Questions

After completing the direct entry msn program, can i become a nurse practitioner.

No, but you can get much closer to reaching that goal. You will need to complete additional education in the NP specialty of your choosing before becoming eligible to practice.

After completing the direct entry MSN program, you are eligible to enroll in a post master’s certificate program to help you prepare to become a nurse practitioner.

We currently offer post master’s certificate concentrations in:

• Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP)
• Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

What are the different types of nursing degrees?

There are a wide variety of different career paths in nursing, and depending on what makes the most sense for you there are several different types of nursing degrees you may consider:

• Diploma in Practical Nursing . The fastest way to start your nursing career is to earn a diploma in practical nursing and become a Licensed Practical Nurse. This isn’t a “degree” but it’s an alternative starting point if you’re ready to get your feet wet in nursing.
• Associate degree in nursing . Earn an associate’s degree in nursing and you’ll be eligible to sit for the NCLEX and become a Registered Nurse (RN).
• Bachelor’s in nursing . A bachelor’s degree is becoming the new educational standard for registered nurses, and it will qualify you for a master’s degree program.
• Master’s in nursing . Many roles up the ladder in nursing will require a master’s degree.
• Doctorate in nursing . Earn the terminal degree in nursing and reach the top of the field.

All schools have their own distinct degree programs based on their qualifications and areas of focus. Herzing University offers many different options to provide the shortest path to your destination no matter where you are right now, including campus bridge programs and online programs to help you reach the next level in your education. View all of our nursing programs .

What is the highest level of nursing?

The highest degree, or terminal degree, in nursing is the doctoral degree.

We offer the practice-focused Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) for students seeking to ascend to the highest ranks of the nursing field and begin making a significant impact in how nursing is implementing evidence-based practice and researching into the practice setting.

After completing the direct entry MSN program, you may be eligible to enroll in our post master’s DNP program .

How do clinical rotations work?

We use a precepted model for clinical experiences in our MSN Direct Entry program.

Upon admission, you have the opportunity to complete a form that will help us select and place you with a preceptor. This will be locations that you have in your area that you desire to complete your clinical or even a location that you might be interested in working in the future.

Our dedicated clinical placement team will assist you in preceptor placement. We work with many clinical sites to ensure you can find the right fit (ideally within 100 miles of where you live).

Ultimately, our clinical placement team is responsible for providing assigned preceptors—but your ability to identify potential sites and preceptors in your community is integral to the process. However, we cannot guarantee you will be assigned to a preferred or specific preceptor or location.

Occasionally you will have virtual clinicals for basic skills checks and faculty advisement, which may be done via synchronous remote sessions.

Can I work while enrolled in the MSN Direct Entry program?

We recommend that you keep work to a minimum during the program given the required synchronous sessions and overall volume of work needed for success.

Are online nursing degrees legitimate and respected by employers?

Increasingly yes, but it ultimately depends on the institution who issued the degree.

As the popularity of online degrees  continues to rapidly trend upward  in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, so has mainstream acceptance of online degree programs.

Attitudes toward online degrees were already becoming more positive before the pandemic forced the issue. According to a 2019 study from  Northeastern University , 61 percent of HR leaders say online learning is “of equal or greater quality to more traditional methods.” More than half believe that in the future, most advanced degrees will be online.

Regarding nursing applicants who earned online degrees, there are a few important factors employers consider:

• The school and degree program’s accreditation . Herzing University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and programmatically accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). i
• If you have earned nursing licensure . Our programs are designed to help you pass any necessary exams and become licensed before getting your first job.
• The school’s reputation and history of producing excellent employees . Consider our  many happy graduates  and 50+ years producing more than 40,000 alumni.

For all these reasons employers know what it means when they see “Herzing University” on a resume!

i. Programmatic accreditation varies by program and by campus location. Find details about all Herzing University  accreditations and approvals .

How much does a registered nurse (RN) make?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , registered nurses earn an average salary of $94,480 per year ( $45.42 per hour).*

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Accelerated BSN Option

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) - Online

Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) - Online

Accreditation & disclosures.

1.  Completion time based on transfer credit for undergraduate general education courses.

2. The master's degree program in nursing at Herzing University-Madison is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (http://www.ccneaccreditation.org). Herzing University is approved to offer programs in an online learning modality through association with the main campus in Madison, Wisconsin.

3. Eligible states for enrollment: Alabama, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, i Michigan, Minnesota, i Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Virginia, and Wisconsin.

i Limited to 100 mile radius of physical campus (Minneapolis, New Orleans)

Herzing University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

View Herzing University Accreditation and Approvals

* Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics 2023 / Occupational Outlook Handbook 2022. BLS estimates do not represent entry-level wages and/or salaries. Multiple factors, including prior experience, age, geography market in which you want to work and degree field, will affect career outcomes and earnings. Herzing neither represents that its graduates will earn the average salaries calculated by BLS for a particular job nor guarantees that graduation from its program will result in a job, promotion, salary increase or other career growth.

Related Blog Posts

• Scholarships
• Nursing Programs
• Campus Locations

The program has an automatic transfer of credits, and allows you to transfer up to additional credits.

The program allows you to transfer up to credits.

The program allows you to transfer up to credit hours.

MSN - Direct Entry Online Campus
Tuition
Cost per Credit	$775.00
Base Tuition	$59,675.00
Savings from Transfer Credits (17 x $775.00 )	(-$13,175.00)
Estimated Tuition Cost*	$46,500.00
Fees
One-time Program Fee	$0.00
Per-semester Program Fee	$825.00
Per-semester Learner Resource Fee	$545.00
Estimated Total Fee*	$6,850.00

Total Semesters
Required	Needed
6	5

Total Credits
Required	Needed
77	60

Estimated Cost
Base Cost	Your Cost
$67,895.00	$53,350.00

Estimated Savings*
$14,545.00

Available Scholarships & Loan Options

Closed school equalization scholarship amount: varies.

Available to applicants who attended a college or university that closed within the last 12 months and were attending within 120 days of the school closure date

Must be enrolled in a comparable program at Herzing University, submit a copy of an official transcript from the closed school, and complete the Closed School Discharge Disclosure

Crisis Support Grant Amount: Varies; maximum $500 per semester; $1000 lifetime

The Crisis Support Grant is an emergency grant for active students experiencing a financial crisis

GPA requirements must be met. All applicants must be actively enrolled in a degree-seeking program, have a record of good conduct, and financial standing with the university

Herzing University Board of Trustees Scholarship Amount: The amount awarded to the selected student(s) is determined annually when the recipient(s) is selected.

All Herzing University students are eligible to apply via the formal application process outlined below. Students must apply prior to the start of either semester in their last academic year before graduation. The application period is open during the summer semester.

An application including a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and examples of community service is required. In addition, the scholarship review committee may review GPA and unmet financial need as part of eligibility criteria.

Herzing University Completion Grant Amount: Total tuition and fee amount that is unpaid after all other resources

Available to applicants in any program that demonstrate a financial need and are unable to cover the cost of attendance with alternative resources in their final academic year

Must submit an application and have used all financial resources in the final academic year resulting in a gap in financial resources

Herzing University I'm possible Grant Amount: Total tuition and fee amount that is unpaid after all other resources

Available to applicants in any program that demonstrate a financial need, who are unable to cover cost of attendance with alternative resources

Must show financial need and are unable to cover cost of attendance with alternative resources

Herzing University Strive Scholarship Amount: $2,000

Dean's List and President's list students

Must be enrolled in an Associate or Bachelor program, on the Dean's or President's list, and submit an application.

HRSA - Nurse Corps Scholarship Amount: Varies; the monthly stipend is awarded for tuition, eligible fees, and reasonable costs (includes books, clinical supplies, instruments, and uniforms).

This program designed to provide financial support to nursing students while in school that are williing to work in a critical shortage facility after graduation.

Must be a U.S. citizen (born or naturalized), a national, or a permanent resident; accepted or enrolled as a student in a nursing degree program at a United States accredited school of nursing; begin classes no later than September 30; do not have any federal overdue federal loan debt, judgment liens, or existing service commitment.

HU Lifelong Learning Alumni Scholarship Amount: 5% of tuition

Must be a Herzing graduate who has re-enrolled in a higher-level degree and remain enrolled in the desired program

Must be enrolled at least half-time for the duration of the program

International Grant and International Student Service Fee Scholarship Amount: Varies

Must be an international student attending HU through an agreement with a school/agency in your home country

Must either be attending a resident campus as F-1 student or enrolled in an online modality study through an established school partnership

Matching - Segal AmeriCorps Matching Scholarship Amount: $1,000/full-time semester or $500/half-time and 3/4-time semester

Must be an eligible AmeriCorps Alumni who is enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree seeking program

Must submit a payment request for an eligible institution through their individual account in 'My AmeriCorps'

Matching Scholarship - Yellow Ribbon Amount: Varies

Yellow ribbon may be given to veterans entitled to the maximum benefit rate for Post-911

100% CH 33 eligible

Military and First Responder's Appreciation Grant Amount: 10% total direct costs (tuition and all fees)

Honorably discharged veterans, severely injured servicemembers, family members of Active Duty Servicemembers and Severely Injured Servicemembers, active duty servicemembers in graduate-level programs, dependents of deceased servicemembers, public safety and first responder personnel

Proof of Veteran (DD-214), Active Duty, or injured status is required. 

Proof of active and current employment as public safety personnel or first responder

Military Appreciation Grant Amount: Tuition reduction to $250/credit plus the amount of the Learner Resource Fee and Enrollment Fee

Active Duty Servicemembers in undergraduate programs and National Guard or Reserves activated or actively training and drilling in preparation for potential activation

Proof of active duty status is required

Nurses Circle of Achievement Amount: 10% tuition reduction

ASN or BSN: Must have completed the TEAS Assessment with a score of 78+ MSN: must have a 3.8+ GPA upon entering the program.

Applicants in the ASN and BSN, must maintain a 3.0 GPA while enrolled. 

Applicants in the MSN program must maintain a 3.5 GPA.

Partnership Grant Amount: 10%-35% tuition reduction

Employees of a business participating in the Herzing Partnerships Program.

Proof of active and current employment or association with partner organization

WAICU - UPS Foundation Scholarship Amount: The scholarship will be awarded to one recipient in the amount of $3,000

Recipients must be enrolled full-time in an undergraduate program for the Fall with a Herzing University campus located within Wisconsin.

Applicant's background must reflect one or more of the components as determined by the UPS Foundation and CIC's First Opportunity Program: first generation student, low-income, minority; or new American student.

WAICU - Wisconsin Women in Government Amount: Varies; maximum $3,000

The program is designed to provide financial support for women that demonstrate leadership potential, initiative, and excellent communication skills and are pursuing a career or have an interest in public service, government, and/or the political process.

To be considered for this scholarship, an applicant must be actively enrolled as a full-time or part-time undergraduate student in good academic standing and plan to enroll in the Fall. In addition, an applicant must be a female resident of Wisconsin and have a financial need as determined by Herzing University based on eligibility for the Pell Grant.

WAICU Rath Scholarship Amount: Up to four recipients will be selected. Each recipient will receive a scholarship of $6,500.

Rath Distinguished Scholarship is awarded based on academic achievement, merit, and leadership.

Must be an actively enrolled student in good standing. If an entering first year student, the scholarship applicants must have graduated among the top 25 percent of their high school class. If a sophomore, junior, or senior, applicants must have demonstrated academic excellence by maintaining a grade point average of 3.0 or above on a 4.0 scale (or the equivalent). In addition, scholarship recipients are to demonstrate strong campus and community leadership. Applicants must be enrolled through the Fall semester. Scholars must be U.S. citizens; Wisconsin residents preferred.

To Contact a Financial Aid Advisor

Enrolled and active students.

Click here: MyHU Advising Team

Prospective students

Call (866) 508-0748 option 2 or Email [email protected]

Actual semesters to complete are dependent upon university approved transfer credits and program mapping.

Estimated program length, estimated number of semesters, and estimated program shown above are standard by program for each student based on: a student taking a full-time course load each semester, the student not having any transfer credits (from previous Herzing experiences or from other post-secondary institutions), and successful completion of each course.

Current tuition rates for all programs are effective through the Summer 2024 semester.

9 Healthcare Programs You Can Accomplish Quickly

Whether you’re a recent high school graduate, a working professional seeking a career change, or someone looking to re-enter the workforce, postsecondary healthcare programs are designed to get caring individuals like you into impactful careers and fulfill growing workforce demands. Healthcare is recognized as one of the largest and fastest growing employment sectors in the United States, with an increasingly high demand for qualified practitioners and providers.

Participating in the right healthcare program can build a foundation for a fulfilling healthcare career, opening doors to various roles in hospitals, clinics, emergency services, and other healthcare settings.

And these roles don’t always require a large investment of time. The best healthcare programs allow folks with diverse lifestyles and commitments to build accomplished careers, often without spending years in medical school.

Let’s look at nine collegiate-level healthcare programs you can accomplish quickly, even if juggling other commitments.

Learn how to become a healthcare professional through Goodwin University.

1. associate degree in nursing.

Turn your passion for helping others into a rewarding career. As a registered nurse, you can make this world a better place for your patients through the provision of quality, compassionate care. You will care for people of all ages, promoting optimal health.

Some programs, like Goodwin University’s, offer the ability to complete the nursing coursework towards your associate degree in Nursing in as few as 20 months part-time (after prerequisite courses). For your convenience, most nursing classes are offered days and evenings. Clinical experiences are chosen by lottery and there are day, evening and weekend options available.

Upon completion of this degree, graduates take the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) to become licensed as an RN. After you’ve passed the NCLEX and are licensed as an RN, you may wish to complete your bachelor’s degree in Nursing immediately, jump into the workforce to start earning and caring for others, or return to school after practicing as a nurse for a few years.

2. Accelerated Bachelor’s in Nursing Degree

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program is geared toward individuals who already have a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA to qualify for a non-nursing major from a regionally accredited college or university. This accelerated second bachelor’s degree program allows graduates to become licensed as an RN and work in the field quickly.

Some stellar 60-credit ABSN programs can be completed in as few as 16 months full-time, so you can be on your way to a career where you truly make a difference in just months. The ABSN coursework will put you on the path to becoming an RN on a timeline that works for you. Ready to see if you meet the requirements to apply ?

3. Associate Degree in Respiratory Care

Another option to get into a clinical career quickly is an associate degree in Respiratory Care .

Those in this field perform daily tasks such as assisting physicians in administering medications to help relieve breathlessness, obtaining and analyzing blood and sputum samples, using ventilators to help patients, from infants to adults, who cannot breathe independently, and performing diagnostic tests for patients with sleep disorders.

​​All prerequisites must be completed or in progress for admission into the healthcare program at the time of application. If courses are in progress, acceptance will be conditional upon submission of an official transcript immediately upon completion. To meet requirements, prerequisite courses taken at Goodwin must be completed with a grade of “C+” or higher.

Look for a school with clinical partnerships with hospitals, health centers, and physicians that will expose you to real-life experiences. Many programs make sure that their curriculum , classes, and clinical rotations can be tailored to your busy schedule. And, if later on down the line, you want to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Health Science , you can apply most of your credits toward the degree.

A Respiratory Care degree program has been designed to prepare you for the entry-level and advanced practitioner-level examinations for respiratory care practitioners given by the National Board of Respiratory Care and to assume an entry-level position as a competent respiratory care practitioner. Upon completing the program and licensure, you will have the necessary skills and knowledge to secure employment as a registry-eligible respiratory care practitioner.

4. Associate Degree in Funeral Service

End-of-life and post-mortem care may not be daily topics at the dinner table, but those called to serve in this field provide a valuable service. A Funeral Service program trains you to become a well-rounded industry professional with the integrity, compassion, and moral ethics necessary to succeed in this vital field. This associate degree program teaches a range of funeral service procedures , from the initial pronouncement of death to the deceased’s final disposition. Core classes are offered one day per week and include on-campus lectures and laboratory training.

But remember that hands-on learning is just as valuable as time in the classroom. Look for programs that offer internship placement so you can gain exposure to embalming, restorative art, and business management first-hand. For instance, at Goodwin, all graduates complete an internship that includes participation in at least ten embalming operations, funeral directing, first calls, and removals of human remains. This 65-credit program can be completed in as few as 24 months full-time.

5. Medical Assisting Certificate or Degree

Medical assistance careers are on the rise nationwide. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance and need for medical personnel in all areas of health care. With a certificate or degree in Medical Assisting , you will serve as a facilitator between physicians and other individuals.

Daily responsibilities may include scheduling patients for exams, taking vital signs, performing ECG/EKGs, collecting and processing specimens, preparing patients for procedures, updating filing records, and corresponding with insurance companies regarding patient matters.

After meeting the admission requirements , applying, and being accepted into a program, students graduate with a well-rounded education, a wide range and scope of skill sets, and current and upcoming practices. Learning clinical skills by being placed in clinical sites to gain valuable hands-on experience.

This type of healthcare program can be completed in as few as 12 to 16 months, and flexible online scheduling options are available.

6. Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Certificate Program

LPNs are highly skilled nursing professionals with the training needed to support registered nurses, medical doctors, while providing excellent nursing care to clients in diverse backgrounds. When you earn your certificate and become an LPN, you’ll be responsible for recording vitals, reporting patients’ statuses to RNs and doctors, changing wound dressings, and more! In addition to working with physicians to provide effective care, LPNs offer comfort and support to patients and their loved ones. When you earn your LPN certificate , you’ll lay the groundwork for a sought-after career providing efficient and compassionate care to your community.

This degree is also a wonderful way for Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) to take patient care skills to the next level. CNAs often assist in the feeding, monitoring, bathing, and transportation of patients. While those responsibilities are vital to healthcare teams, LPNs have opportunities to perform more advanced nursing tasks that contribute to a patient’s overall care plan. LPNs can administer medications, assess patient conditions, and even specialize in areas such as pediatrics, geriatrics, or critical care nursing.

A flexible path to a career that counts, an LPN program can be designed to meet your personal and professional needs. At Goodwin, for example, classes are offered in the days and evenings, and in both part-time and full-time class formats. You can even complete the LPN program in 16‑28 months.

7. Occupational Therapy Assistant Degree

An Occupational Therapy Assistant associate degree program prepares students to care for clients limited by physical illness or injury, emotional disorder, developmental disability, or the natural aging process. Therapy focuses on assisting clients in restoring or maintaining independence in everyday life skills.

Occupational therapy assistants work under the supervision of an experienced occupational therapist, applying functional activities and treatment methods. High-quality programs include a comprehensive curriculum , supervised clinical hours, and hands-on experience for a well-rounded education. Graduates then must pass the national certification administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) to become Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants.

8. Master’s Degree in Public Health

The Master’s in Public Health (MPH) program prepares students for complex, local, national, and global issues in contemporary public health. Completing a certificate or degree program can also provide the opportunity to work in a rewarding industry, including the chance to make a difference in the community, where every day creates new challenges.

In fact, many programs are fully online MPH and offered in accelerated formats—Goodwin’s is only seven weeks! You will be immersed in an inclusive environment where you become profession-ready through our relevant and innovative competency-based curriculum .

Whether you’re full-time or part-time, once you meet the admission requirements , we’ll teach you how to tackle public health issues, from acute and chronic illnesses to lifestyle and health behavior change. These include maternal and child health, the opioid epidemic, Medicare for all, influenza, obesity, and other emerging health issues.

Goodwin’s Masters in Public Health program promotes equity, inquiry, health, well-being, and skill development for current and emerging leaders.

9. Medical Billing and Coding Certificate

For those who want to make an impact in healthcare and medicine, but do not want to work directly with patients, the medical billing and coding pathway is a great option that does not require a long time investment. Medical billers and coders work behind-the-scenes in healthcare, ensuring that patients receive services seamlessly and that providers get paid for their care.

A Medical Billing and Coding certificate program prepares students with knowledge in medical terminology, health insurance, industry coding language and software, as well as general medical office management. Graduates of Goodwin’s program, with this knowledge in hand, are prepared to sit for the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) examination, qualifying them for a range of lucrative job opportunities.

Not only is this program fast to complete, it’s also offered entirely online at Goodwin University. Classes can be completed online while assignments can be completed on a time that best fits your schedule. Through this career-oriented healthcare program, you can launch a medical billing and coding career in as few as 12 to 18 months .

Learn more about our healthcare programs today

Learn more about healthcare school programs at goodwin university to see how we can help you launch a successful career helping others in need..

• News & Events
• Faculty & Staff

A world-class city filled with art and culture and an incredible campus that offers cutting edge resources–that’s what students receive at Penn Nursing. And that’s just the start. Penn Nursing and the wider university offer something for everyone, as well as a lifelong community.

Penn Nursing is globally known for educating dynamic nurses—because our School values evidence-based science and health equity. That’s where our expertise lies, whether in research, practice, community health, or beyond. Everything we do upholds a through-line of innovation, encouraging our exceptional students, alumni, and faculty share their knowledge and skills to reshape health care.

Penn Nursing students are bold and unafraid, ready to embrace any challenge that comes their way. Whether you are exploring a career in nursing or interested in advancing your nursing career, a Penn Nursing education will help you meet your goals and become an innovative leader, prepared to change the face of health and wellness.

Penn Nursing is the #1-ranked nursing school in the world. Its highly-ranked programs help develop highly-skilled leaders in health care who are prepared to work alongside communities to tackle issues of health equity and social justice to improve health and wellness for everyone.

Penn Nursing’s rigorous academic curricula are taught by world renowned experts, ensuring that students at every level receive an exceptional Ivy League education . From augmented reality classrooms and clinical simulations to coursework that includes experiential global travel to clinical placements in top notch facilities, a Penn Nursing education prepares our graduates to lead.

Penn Nursing Launches New Online Nursing and Healthcare Leadership Master’s Program

Applications are now being accepted for a summer 2025 start Penn Nursing is excited to announce the launch of a new online Nursing and Healthcare Leadership Master’s (MSN) program beginning in the summer of 2025. This innovative 10 CU program, which combines and enhances the curriculum of the Nursing and Healthcare Administration (NADM) and Health Leadership (HLMP) Master’s programs, will provide students with a comprehensive and dynamic learning experience that prepares graduates for leadership roles in the ever-changing healthcare environment. 

“We’re thrilled to be able to offer our students a new leadership program in an online format to meet the needs of busy nursing professionals,” said program director Meghan Fitzpatrick, DNP, RN, NEA-BC. “And by streamlining the curriculum to 10 CUs, we’re able to make the program more cost-effective for our students.”

In addition to providing students with a more efficient and cost-effective path to earning their MSN, the curricular changes include 500 field hours and exceed the standards set forth in the American Association of Colleges of Nursing Level 2 Essentials.

To apply or learn more about the program, please visit our web site and register for one of our upcoming information sessions .

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University of Tulsa Adds Online Graduate Program in Nursing

Find your perfect school.

Registered nurses interested in advancing in the health care field have a new program to consider—the online Master of Science in Nursing at the University of Tulsa.

This distance learning opportunity for nurses allows them to keep their current jobs while pursuing their ultimate career goals. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). It features four distinct specialty tracks:

• Leadership & Innovation
• Education & Elevation
• Public Health Global Vision
• Informatics & Analytics

Director of online programs Cassy Abbott Eng said, “The M.S.N. degree is tailored for B.S.N.-prepared nurses looking to advance their careers and assume leadership roles in the nursing profession. Students can choose from four specialty tracks, each aligned with current professional demands and societal trends. The program, designed for working professionals, can be completed in as little as one year through an eight-week course carousel model.”

Prospective students are encouraged to submit their applications through the Graduate School.

The University of Tulsa has been ranked among the top 100 best value schools in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. Here at CVO, we highlighted the University of Tulsa in our feature The Top University Museums in Every State .

Source : University of Tulsa Launches Online Master of Science in Nursing

Related : MSN Online Programs: Top 50 Values

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In this article, we cover all the important details about Voronezh State Medical University. You will find information on the admission process, courses offered, fee structure, and eligibility criteria. We also discuss the pros and cons of studying MBBS in Russia, as well as the university’s ranking and other relevant details.

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College summary.

Before we go through Voronezh State Medical University detailed information, let’s look at the College’s essential details.

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	VSU Russia
	Voronezh, Russia
	1918
	Public
	English & Russian
	Not Required
	,
	Ministry of Education and Science Russia
	USD- $ 5,750/- (Annually) INR- Rs. 4,77,000/- (Annually)
	Country- 165 World- 4975 (Source: Unirank)
	September Intake
	Yes (Male & Female)
	Voronezh International Airport
	http://www.vsu.ru/

Affiliation and Recognition

These are the renowned bodies who’ve given recognition to the Voronezh State Medical University.

• National Medical Commission of India.
• World Health Organization.
• Ministry of Science & Higher Education of the Russian Federation.

Below is the list of faculties that Voronezh State Medical University Russia has to offer:

Faculty of General Medicine	Faculty of Advanced Nursing
Faculty of Dentistry	Faculty of Post-Graduate Studies
Faculty of Pediatrics	Faculty of Language course
Faculty of Pharmacy	–

Courses Offered

Voronezh State Medical University offers quality medical programs under highly qualified faculty and state-of-the-art infrastructure. The College is famous for its undergraduate medical programs (MBBS).

MBBS	6 Years (English Medium) 7 Years (Russian Medium)

Why Study MBBS at Voronezh State Medical University?

• Voronezh State Medical University consists of international students from about 56 countries. Hence students can experience a multicultural environment at this university.
• Seminars and practicals are also given importance rather than giving just theoretical knowledge to students.
• No donation and no entrance exam are required for admission into Voronezh State Medical University.
• At this university, there are graduate, postgraduate, PhD and secondary courses.
• The classrooms and laboratories at the university are equipped with internet, audio-video systems, modern equipment and modern software.
• Student life is quite beautiful in Russia due to its university making an effort to make student life in Russia better.

Admission Procedure

If you want to take Voronezh State Medical University Admission, you must qualify for the National Eligibility Entrance Exam (NEET) for Indian students.

To get admission to Voronezh State Medical University, one should follow these steps:

• First of all, you will need to fill out the application form provided by the university on their website.
• Take a printout of the application form and send a signed copy of the form to the university and do not forget to attach all the documents mentioned below.
• Selected international students would receive their admission letter within a week.
• Admission will be determined based on the candidate’s application forms, eligibility, and marks obtained.
• You will need to apply for visa at the immigration department of the Russian embassy in your country once you receive your invitation letter.
• You should notify the university about your arrival date.

Eligibility Criteria

If you want to study MBBS at Voronezh State Medical University, check out the eligibility criteria of this university mentioned below:

	Your age should be at least 17 years old on or before 31st December of the admission year. *No Upper Age Limit.
	Class 12th in Science, with PCB and English subjects from a board recognized by the authorities in India.
	60% in 10+2 (UR) 50% (SC/OBC/ST)
	(For Indian Students)

Graphical Representation of Eligibility Criteria

Documents Required

Before taking admission at Voronezh State Medical University, please do not forget to carry all these related documents.

• Passport (Minimum 18 months validity).
• 10th Certificate & Mark sheet.
• 12th Certificate & Mark sheet.
• Birth Certificate.
• 10 passport-size Photographs
• Official Invitation letter from the Medical University of Russia.
• Authorization of all documents from the Ministry of External Affairs, New Delhi.
• Legalization of all documents from the Russian Embassy.
• Bank receipt of 1st Year of the Voronezh State Medical University Tuition fee (required for some Universities).
• HIV test documents.

Fee Structure 2024-25

This section shows Voronezh State Medical University MBBS fees are given below:-

	$5000	$5000	$5000	$5000	$5000	$5000
	$750	$750	$750	$750	$750	$750
	$5750	$5750	$5750	$5750	$5750	$5750
	Rs.4.77 Lakhs	Rs.4.77 Lakhs	Rs.4.77 Lakhs	Rs.4.77 Lakhs	Rs.4.77 Lakhs	Rs.4.77 Lakhs

Cost of Living at Voronezh

The cost of living at Voronezh city is as follows:

Particular	Cost
Things of daily need (Milk, Groceries, Bread, etc.)	Ranges in between Rs. 26 – Rs. 560
Eating at a mid-range restaurant (for 2 people)	Rs. 1500 – Rs. 1600
One-way ticket of any local transport	Rs. 23
A monthly pass for local transport	Rs. 1041
Monthly rent for a 1 bedroom apartment	costs between Rs. 10,680 – Rs. 16,990

Ranking 2024-25

According to Unirank, the Voronezh State Medical University ranking in Russia and all over the world:

Country Ranking	165
World Ranking	4975

Advantages of MBBS in Russia

About Voronezh City

• Voronezh City is located in the European part of Russia. It is the capital of the Voronezh region and is situated on the banks of the Voronezh water reservoir of the Voronezh River, which is about 520 km south of Moscow.
• Voronezh City is a cultural, scientific, and industrial centre of the region. The area of Voronezh City is 596 sq. km. and the population of Voronezh is about 1,032,000, according to the 2015 census.
• Voronezh City is the administrative centre of Voronezh Oblast. Voronezh City lies 93m above sea level. Generally, it is cold and temperate in Voronezh city.

Temperature

Contact Details

Voronezh State Medical University Address: Universitetskaya Ploshchad’, 1, Voronezh, Oblast, Russia, 394036 Contact Number : +91 7827-804-741

Voronezh State Medical University Photos

Frequently Asked Question(FAQs)

Does this university implement modern teaching methods.

Voronezh University implements modern teaching methods such as problem-based teaching, video-based classes, computer and Internet classes, and education software.

Where is Voronezh State Medical University located?

The address of Voronezh State Medical University is Universitetskaya Ploshchad’, 1, Voronezh, Voronezh, Oblast, Russia, 394036.

What is the annual tuition fee for Indian students at Voronezh State Medical University?

The annual tuition fee for Indian students at Voronezh State Medical University is $5750 (Rs.4.77 Lakhs) including hostel fees.

What is the current world ranking of Voronezh State Medical University?

The world ranking of Voronezh State Medical University is 4975.

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Voronezh State Medical University Admission, Courses, Fees, Contacts, online Application

About the university / university details.

This University was Established in 1918, Voronezh State Medical University is a non-profit public higher-education institution located in the urban setting of the metropolis of Voronezh (The area population ranges between this figures 1,000,000-5,000,000 inhabitants), Voronezh Oblast. Officially recognized by the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Voronezh State Medical University (VSMU) is a medium-sized (University enrollment / admissions ranges between: 6,000-6,999 students) coeducational Russian higher education institution. Voronezh State Medical University (VSMU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor degrees, master degrees, doctorate degrees in several areas of study. This 102 years old Russian higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students’ past academic record and grades. The admission rate range is 40-50% making this Russian higher education organization a averagely selective institution. International students are welcome to apply for enrollment. VSMU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, study abroad and exchange programs, as well as administrative services.

Table of Contents

Voronezh State Medical University’s website

Admission, Courses, Fees, Contacts, online Application For this University please visit the link below and Apply for Undergraduate programmes, Masters programmes, and PhDs. 

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Abbreviations
Established

University Contacts, Phone Number, Location, Email and Postal Address.

Address	10, Studencheskaya Street Voronezh 394036 Voronezh Oblast Russia
Tel	+7 (910) 318 7372
Fax	+7 (4712) 562 814