Online Nursing Degrees — Comprehensive List of Programs (2025)

If you’re considering pursuing a nursing degree online, you’re in good company. Online nursing programs, often offered by an online nursing school, have become increasingly popular due to their flexibility and accessibility, allowing students to earn their degrees while managing work, family, and other commitments. But with so many online nursing degree programs available, how do you know which one is the best fit for your goals and lifestyle?

This guide will break down the best online nursing programs, explain the different types of nursing degrees, and give you the information you need to make an informed decision about your nursing education. Let’s dive into the world of online nursing education and see what options are available to you in 2025.

Learn More About the Types of Online Nursing Programs

Online nursing school programs offer a variety of pathways for individuals to enter or advance in the nursing profession, providing flexibility and credibility similar to traditional settings.

Online LPN/LVN Diploma

LPNs, or LVNs in Texas and California, are responsible for performing basic nursing tasks in healthcare settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, physician offices, and home healthcare. Online LPN/LVN diploma programs are one of the fastest ways to start a nursing career. This program provides a solid foundation for students, enabling them to check vital signs, administer first aid, insert IV lines, and manage patient data.

Typical courses for LPN/LVN programs include fundamental nursing skills, human anatomy, medication administration, and disease processes. Students also complete 500-750 hours of clinical experience. Graduates must pass the NCLEX-PN to receive their license. These programs can also serve as a stepping stone to more advanced degrees like an RN or BSN.

Online ADN Degree Program

Online Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs are the quickest path to becoming a Registered Nurse (RN). ADN graduates take on more responsibility than LPNs and receive higher pay. While a BSN may be required for career advancement, the ADN is a great entry-level option, providing access to bridge programs for RN-to-BSN paths.

ADN programs typically include courses in nursing basics, health assessment, microbiology, and immunology. Students also receive hands-on training with a required 500 hours of clinical practice. After completing the ADN, students can take the NCLEX-RN to become licensed RN.

Online BSN Degree Program

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is typically a four-year baccalaureate degree program that prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam. Compared to an ADN, BSN programs provide more advanced career opportunities, responsibilities, and higher pay. BSN graduates are better positioned for leadership roles and specialized fields of nursing.

Courses for BSN students include anatomy, community health nursing, informatics, leadership, pharmacology, and research. Clinical hours are also required, providing essential real-world experience. Graduates are well-prepared for positions in hospitals or specialty care, such as geriatrics, pediatrics, and obstetrics. A BSN sets the stage for graduate-level nursing programs. Prospective students with an ADN or RN license may qualify for accelerated or bridge programs that reduce the time needed to complete the BSN degree.

Best Online Nursing Degree Programs in 2025

University of Florida-Online

• Program: RN-to-BSN
• Acceptance Rate: 65%
• Accreditation: CCNE-accredited
• Tuition: $129 per credit (in-state); $553 per credit (out-of-state)
• Clinical Hours: 90 clinical hours, arranged locally

The University of Florida offers an entirely online RN-to-BSN program that is focused on nursing leadership. The program’s flexibility allows registered nurses (RNs) to complete coursework while working full-time. This online program facilitates quicker completion times compared to traditional on-campus options, appealing to those seeking efficient routes to achieve nursing qualifications.

CUNY Lehman College

• Program: RN-to-BSN
• Acceptance Rate: 55%
• Accreditation: CCNE-accredited
• Average Undergrad Tuition: In-State- $6,930 and Out-of-state- $14,880
• Average Graduate Tuition: In-state- $11,090 and Out-of-state- $20,520

CUNY Lehman College offers one of the most affordable online RN-to-BSN programs, with in-state tuition of just $305 per credit. The program can be completed in as little as 12 months, making it ideal for working professionals.

St. Luke’s College

• Program: RN-to-BSN
• Acceptance Rate: 23%
• Accreditation: CCNE-accredited
• Average Undergrad Tuition: In-State- $19,440 and Out-of-state- $19,440
• Clinical Hours: Small class sizes, around 40-50 students per year

St. Luke’s offers a flexible RN-to-BSN program with customizable electives like palliative care and pharmacology. This makes it an excellent choice for RNs looking to specialize in certain areas of nursing.

University of Central Florida

• Program: RN-to-BSN
• Acceptance Rate: 43%
• Accreditation: CCNE-accredited
• Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state- $6,368 and Out-of-state- $22,467
• Average Graduate Tuition: In-state- $6,916 and Out-of-state- $25,759

UCF’s RN-to-BSN program offers multiple tracks to meet the needs of working nurses. This program is designed to help students strengthen their management, research, and leadership skills.

Charter Oak State College

• Program: RN-to-BSN
• Accreditation: CCNE-accredited
• Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state- $7,656 and Out-of-state- $10,056
• Average Graduate Tuition: In-state- $9,288 and Out-of-state- $9,720

Charter Oak’s program offers a flat tuition rate for all students, making it an affordable option regardless of residency. Additionally, it has a robust offering of scholarships and financial aid opportunities for Connecticut residents.

Texas A&M University-College Station

• Program: RN-to-BSN
• Acceptance Rate: 63%
• Accreditation: CCNE-accredited
• Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state- $8,443 and Out-of-state- $36,637
• Average Graduate Tuition: In-state- $6,885 and Out-of-state- $19,593

This program is ideal for RNs looking to advance their education while gaining valuable community-based clinical experience. Texas A&M offers a flexible, fast-track option with clinical placements in students' communities.

University of Rochester

• Program: RN-to-BSN
• Acceptance Rate: 36%
• Accreditation: CCNE-accredited
• Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state-$60,550 and Out-of-state- $60,550
• Average Graduate Tuition: In-state- $41,888 and Out-of-state- $41,888

The University of Rochester’s program is unique for its integration of technology, including iPad-based coursework. It’s also one of the more expensive options on the list, but it offers several scholarship opportunities for eligible students.

University of Wisconsin-Madison

• Program: BSN@Home
• Acceptance Rate: 43%
• Accreditation: CCNE-accredited
• Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state-$11,216 and Out-of-state- $37,904
• Average Graduate Tuition: In-state- $10,728 and Out-of-state- $24,054

The BSN@Home program allows ADN students to complete their BSN with as few as 24 credits. It’s perfect for RNs looking to further their education without disrupting their careers.

Texas A & M International University

• Program: RN-to-BSN
• Acceptance Rate: 48%
• Accreditation: CCNE-accredited
• Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state - $3,818, Out-of-state - $13,634
• Average Graduate Tuition: In-state - $3,350, Out-of-state - $10,712

The RN-to-BSN program at Texas A&M International University is affordable, with in-state tuition under $9,000. It can be completed in as little as 12 months and focuses on nursing leadership, global health nursing, and community nursing.

Clemson University

• Program: RN-to-BSN Completion
• Acceptance Rate: 38%
• Accreditation: CCNE-accredited
• Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state - $14,118, Out-of-state - $37,982
• Average Graduate Tuition: In-state - $10,858, Out-of-state - $22,566

Clemson University offers an online RN-to-BSN completion program that takes as few as 12 months. The program includes courses in leadership, research, and health assessment, with scholarships available for eligible students.

What Are the Admissions Requirements for Online Nursing Programs?

1. Educational Background

• Entry-Level Programs (LPN, ADN, BSN): A high school diploma or GED is required. Some programs may accept applicants with a high school diploma contingent on completion of prerequisite courses.
• RN-to-BSN Programs: An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a diploma from an accredited nursing program is typically required.
• Graduate Programs (MSN, DNP, PhD): A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is required for MSN programs, while DNP and PhD programs typically require an MSN. Some RN-to-MSN bridge programs allow registered nurses with an ADN to transition directly to a master’s degree. A master's degree program is crucial for advanced nursing roles and meeting the high demand for qualified healthcare professionals.

2. Prerequisite Courses

Most nursing programs require applicants to complete specific coursework before admission. Common prerequisites include:

• Biological Sciences: Anatomy & Physiology (I & II), Microbiology
• Mathematics & Statistics: College Algebra, Statistics
• Social Sciences & Humanities: Human Growth & Development, Psychology, Sociology
• Health Sciences: Nutrition, Chemistry (often with a lab component)

Some programs have strict policies requiring these courses to be completed within a certain number of years (e.g., within the last 5-7 years). If the prerequisite coursework is incomplete, applicants may need to take additional classes before full admission.

3. Grade Point Average (GPA)

• Minimum Requirement: Most programs require a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 to 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
• Competitive Programs: Higher-ranking programs, especially those with limited spots, may require a GPA of 3.5 or above.
• Conditional Admission: Some schools offer conditional admission for students with lower GPAs, requiring them to complete additional coursework or maintain a minimum GPA during their first semester.

4. Standardized Tests

Not all online nursing programs require standardized test scores, but many still do. Here are common tests and their typical requirements:

• TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills): Required by some ADN and BSN programs. A competitive TEAS score is often 70 or higher.
• HESI A2 (Health Education Systems, Inc. Admission Assessment): Some nursing schools use this exam instead of the TEAS.
• SAT/ACT: Required for some traditional BSN programs but usually not for RN-to-BSN or graduate-level programs.
• GRE (Graduate Record Examination): Some MSN, DNP, or PhD programs may require a GRE score, although many schools are phasing out this requirement.

5. Licensure (For Advanced Programs Only)

• RN-to-BSN Programs: Applicants must have an active, unrestricted Registered Nurse (RN) license.
• MSN & DNP Programs: An RN license is required, and some programs may also require an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) certification.
• State-Specific Requirements: Some programs require applicants to hold an RN license in the same state where they plan to complete their clinical rotations.

6. Professional Experience (For Advanced Programs Only)

• Many MSN and DNP programs require at least one year of full-time RN work experience.
• Specializations such as Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), Nurse Practitioner (NP), or Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) may require 2+ years of hands-on clinical experience in a relevant setting.
• Some schools may waive experience requirements for direct-entry MSN programs.

7. Additional Application Materials

• Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV): Should highlight clinical experience, certifications, and relevant healthcare-related activities.
• Letters of Recommendation: Usually two to three from nursing faculty, employers, or healthcare professionals.
• Personal Statement or Essay: Topics often include career goals, reasons for pursuing nursing, or explanations of any gaps in education or work history.
• Official Transcripts: Must be sent directly from previously attended institutions. Some schools may require foreign transcript evaluation for international applicants.

Additional Requirements for Specific Online Nursing Programs

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Online Nursing Program

1. Accreditation: Make sure the program is accredited by recognized bodies like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). This ensures that the program meets high standards and that your degree will be respected by employers.
2. Clinical Requirements: While the coursework is completed online, most programs require hands-on clinical hours. Check how clinical placements are arranged and ensure that the program can accommodate your location.
3. Tuition and Financial Aid: Consider your budget and whether the program offers financial aid, scholarships, or payment plans. Some programs, like Charter Oak State College, offer flat tuition rates, making it easier to predict total costs.
4. Program Length and Flexibility: Programs vary in length, from accelerated RN-to-BSN programs that can be completed in one year to more traditional BSN programs that take longer. Some programs are specifically designed for working professionals with flexible schedules.
5. Program Specializations: Some programs offer specializations like nursing informatics, nursing administration, or the family nurse practitioner track. If you have specific career goals in mind, look for a program that aligns with those interests.

Get Help with Your Nursing School Application

Applying to nursing school can feel overwhelming. From choosing the right program to writing your personal statement and preparing for exams, having expert guidance can make the process easier.

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FAQs

Can you really get a nursing degree online?

• Yes, it is possible to earn a nursing degree online through many accredited programs. Online nursing programs are available at various levels, including LPN/LVN diplomas, associate degrees (ADN), bachelor's degrees (BSN), master's degrees (MSN), and doctoral degrees (DNP). While the coursework is delivered online, students must complete clinical training and hands-on experiences in person at approved healthcare facilities. Many schools allow students to fulfill these clinical requirements at locations near their homes, making online nursing programs a flexible option for those balancing work and other commitments.

What is the fastest you can become an RN?

• The fastest way to become a registered nurse (RN) depends on prior education and the type of nursing program chosen. An associate degree in nursing (ADN) typically takes 18 to 24 months and provides the quickest direct entry into the RN field. Those with a non-nursing bachelor's degree can complete an accelerated BSN (ABSN) program in 12 to 18 months. Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) can also become RNs in as little as 12 to 18 months through an LPN-to-RN bridge program. Regardless of the educational path, students must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain licensure before practicing as a registered nurse.

What is a 2-year nursing degree called?

• A two-year nursing degree is typically referred to as an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN). These programs are offered at community colleges and some universities and prepare students for entry-level RN positions. After completing the program, graduates must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain their nursing license. ADN programs offer a quicker and more affordable route to becoming an RN compared to a traditional four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.

What is the easiest nursing degree to get online?

• The easiest online nursing degree depends on various factors, including program length, admission requirements, and coursework difficulty. LPN/LVN diploma programs are among the shortest, typically taking 12 to 18 months to complete, and require fewer academic prerequisites. For working registered nurses, RN-to-BSN programs provide a relatively straightforward path to earning a BSN in as little as 12 to 24 months, with coursework that builds on existing nursing experience. Additionally, online MSN programs designed for non-clinical roles, such as nurse educators, nursing informatics specialists, and administrators, often have fewer clinical requirements compared to advanced practice nursing degrees. While online nursing degrees offer flexibility, all nursing programs require a strong commitment to coursework and, in many cases, in-person clinical training.