Obtaining an online degree in nursing is rewarding, statistics for job growth is looking promising, and if you are searching for the best online degrees in nursing, check out this article.
An online degree program in nursing offers a flexible schedule and you can study just from any location. Most online nursing programs are affordable compared to those offered on campus.
One of the benefits of pursuing an online degree in nursing is taking classes at your own pace.
In this article, we will be discussing the best online degrees in nursing and how to choose the best online programs.
How to Choose the Best Online Degree in Nursing
There are a few concerning factors to look at when choosing an online degree in nursing. Firstly, let’s talk about accreditation, which is the most important factor to consider if you want to gain licensure in nursing.
Accreditation
Besides regional accreditation, you should look out for the two types of accreditation for nursing programs.
Ensure you apply for RN to BSN program accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education Nursing (ACEN).
If you apply to an unaccredited online nursing program, you may be ineligible to apply for licensure in any state.
Employers out there are not looking for nurses with an unaccredited degree in nursing. They will only hire qualified nurses with degrees from a recognized and accredited college or university.
What Is the Cost of an Online Degree in Nursing?
The cost for a nursing degree will vary based on state residency and institution of choice.
According to Accreditedschoolsonline.org, the cost of a BSN degree can range from $38,000 to $73,000.
It’s more affordable if you choose to pursue an associate degree in nursing (AND) at a technical or community college.
If you already have an associate degree in nursing and want to pursue an RN to BSN degree program, expect to pay between $100 to $600 as cost per credit hour.
List of Top Institutions Offering the Best Online Degrees in Nursing
Below are online colleges and universities that offer the best online degree in nursing.
- Ohio State University at Columbia
- Pennsylvania State University World Campus
- University of Central Florida
- Appalachian State University
- Texas A&M International University
- Arizona State University
- University of Massachusetts, Amherst
- Florida International University
- University of Arkansas
- Southern New Hampshire University
- The University of Florida Online
- Indiana University
- East Carolina University
- University of Wisconsin, Madison
- Liberty University
Best Online Degrees in Nursing
Let’s explore the best online colleges and universities offering the top online nursing programs.
#1. Ohio State University
- Location: Columbia, Ohio
The Ohio State University is among the top public research institution in the state. Ohio State offers a top RN to BSN online degree program.
Ohio State’s online nursing program allows students to take classes online on full-time and part-time basis. The program coursework meets the standard to train the next generation of licensed nurses.
Ohio State’s graduates acquire hands-on experience to handle real-world challenges and situations.
Also Read: How to Pass Nursing School Exams
#2. Penn State World Campus
- Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Penn State World Campus is an excellent virtual campus that offers a variety of online degrees.
The online BSN degree program offered at Penn State focuses on developing the skills you required as a registered nurse. What Penn State offers is an advanced experience to build a successful career in this field.
This virtual campus also provides an accelerated RN to BSN program, which allows online learners to earn a BSN within a short period.
#3. University of Central Florida
- Location: Orlando, Florida
The University of Central Florida is one of America’s top public research institutions with a large student body.
UCF offers an online degree program, leading to a BSN. The online BSN program includes courses like public and community health nursing, health promotion across the lifespan, and pathophysiology for nursing practice.
#4. Appalachian State University
- Location: Boone, North Carolina
If you are a resident of North Carolina, this is one of the best RN (registered nurse) to BSN (bachelor of science in nursing) degrees available online.
This North Carolina-based university offers an online RN to BSN program. The online program’s major courses include Nursing Care of Older Adults, Concepts of Professional Nursing, Nursing Informatics, and Health Assessment.
#5. Texas A&M International University
- Location: Laredo, Texas
Texas A&M International University offers one of America’s top online RN to BSN programs.
This university offers a wide range of learning formats. Courses are available online and in person. Students with busy schedules benefit from the program’s flexible learning format.
Texas A&M International University provides supportive services to students to help them transition to experts in nursing.
#6. Arizona State University
- Location: Phoenix, Arizona
Arizona State University offers one of the best online RN to BSN programs you will find online. ASU faculty are experienced professionals who are eager to share their knowledge with students.
The opportunity at ASU offers students a chance to gain more leadership experience in nursing.
#7. University of Massachusetts- Amherst
- Location: Amherst, Massachusetts
UMass Amherst is one of the top institutions that offers the best online degrees in nursing.
UMass Amherst provides a flexible schedule with its online RN to BSN program. The university’s Elaine Marieb College of Nursing is widely recognized as one of the best nursing schools in the New England region.
With experienced faculty available for interesting online sessions, there is more you will learn at UMass Amherst.
Also Read: 11 Nursing Schools With High Acceptance Rates in 2024
#8. Florida International University
- Location: Miami Dade County, Florida
Florida International University offers one of the best options online for those seeking an online nursing degree.
FIU offers an accredited online RN to BSN degree program. The university offers nursing programs to online learners and classroom-based nursing students.
FIU’s nursing program meets the required standard to compete at any level in the nursing industry.
#9. University of Arkansas
- Location: Fayetteville, Arkansas
The University of Arkansas offers an online LPN to BSN program through its Eleanor Mann School of Nursing.
The online LPN to BSN program at UArk requires 120 credit hours, which can be completed in two to three years. UA allows students to complete their practicum at any location.
#10 Southern New Hampshire University
- Location: Manchester and Hooksett, New Hampshire
Are you a registered nurse who wants to acquire more experience to meet the standard in today’s healthcare industry, SNHU offers the perfect online RN to BSN program.
SNHU also offers an accelerated RN to MSN for students who want to pursue an advanced career in nursing.
#11. The University of Florida Online
- Location: Gainesville, Florida
UF’s Online Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is the perfect option for working registered nurses. This online program is designed to improve skills for leadership roles in nursing.
UF’s graduates go on to get jobs as hospice nurses, surgical nurses, paediatric nurses, school nurses, and ICU nurses.
#12. Indiana University
- Location: Bloomington, Indiana
Indiana University is interested in helping registered nurses earn an online Bachelor of Science in Nursing. UI offers one of the best online degrees in nursing.
At Indiana University, you can choose either the RN to BSN or LPN to BSN program. The university’s online nursing program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
#13. East Carolina University
- Location: Greenville, North Carolina
East Carolina University’s College of Nursing according to Nursingschoolhub.com produces more nurses than any other school in its region.
ECU’s online RN to BSN offers online learners the opportunity for advanced placement based on previous work experience.
Also Read: 20 Nursing Scholarships for International Students in Canada 2024
#14. University of Wisconsin- Madison
- Location: Madison, Wisconsin
The University of Wisconsin- Madison offers an online RN to BSN program, one of the best nursing degree options.
Application requirements for this online program include being a licensed registered nurse and submitting high school and college transcripts with a letter of recommendation.
#15. Liberty University
- Location: Lynchburg, Virginia
We conclude this list of the best online degrees in nursing with Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA.
Liberty University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. LU’s online BSN program requires 120 credit hours to complete.
LU offers an asynchronous program which allows students to take classes at their own pace.
Conclusion
Although tuition and fees for a nursing program can be quite steep, earning a nursing degree remains a good investment. Whether you choose to earn an online RN to BSN or an LPN to BSN degree, always ensure they are accredited.
