Online Bachelor Degrees in Nursing

Enrolling in a Bachelor of Science in Nursing or BSN program is the fastest way to start your career in nursing. Undergraduate online nursing programs are also excellent for nurses ready to advance in their careers. 

Plus, no matter your interest, online bachelor’s in nursing degree programs encompass a wide range of specialties. With this in mind, we have hand-picked the ten best online undergraduate nursing degree programs available right now. 

These online nursing programs will give students the knowledge and skills to succeed in a successful nursing career. Plus, they offer the flexibility that comes from completing your studies remotely.

If you’re ready to take your nursing career to the next level, you’ll want to check out our list of the best online Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs. 

Bachelor Degree Nursing Online Methodology

We crunched the numbers to discover the best online bachelor’s in nursing programs. We started by narrowing down a list of schools. There are more than 228 colleges and universities in the U.S. offering online nursing degrees. However, we needed to trim that to a manageable number to find the best options for online nursing undergraduate programs.

This began with an assessment of the school’s overall reputation. So we examined each school’s level of respect from former students and the community.

Related: How do online colleges make sure they have a high student satisfaction rate?

Eventually, we arrived at the 15 universities and colleges offering the highest-rated online bachelor’s in nursing courses. From there, we gathered data using the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) College Navigator. Using this information, we ranked the choices for each nursing bachelor degree online program based on a few key criteria:

• Cost
• Admission Rates
• Graduation Rates

The cost question is obviously crucial for any incoming student. Your nursing education represents an investment. It takes financial resources to achieve a degree. But hopefully, you’ll see a significant payoff once you enter the workforce. The more affordable the college, the easier it is to make that investment. For that reason, we gave preference to institutions that offered the least expensive online nursing programs.

Meanwhile, we viewed admission rates as an essential signifier as well. Admission rates show a school’s dedication to diversity and commitment to its students. As a result, we weighted our methodology in favor of universities and colleges with higher admission rates for their degree programs.

One could argue that lower admission rates indicate a more exclusive level of education. Maybe. But we believe people thrive better in welcoming and inclusive environments. That philosophy directed our thinking here.

Finally, we looked at graduation rates. If you are paying for a nursing education, you want an institution that will see you through the process. You want a partner. 

For us, a high graduation rate pointed to that level of dedication. As a result, we gave higher scores to the colleges that most successfully moved students toward their ultimate goals.

To put specific numbers on it, here is how we broke down the scales for these undergraduate nursing programs online:

Graduate Tuition/Fees

• Less than $10,000/year – 3 Points
• $10,001-$20,000/year – 2 Points
• More than $20,000/year – 1 Point

Applicants Admitted

• Less than 25 percent – 1 Point
• 25 percent to 50 percent – 2 Points
• More than 50 percent – 3 Points

Graduation Rate

• 50 percent or Greater – 3 Points
• 25 percent-49 percent – 2 Points
• Less than 25 percent – 1 Point

Please note that the listed tuition rates for all online nursing bachelor’s programs are based on in-state costs per academic year. For out-of-state students and remote students, tuition and fees can vary. 

Top Ten Online Bachelor of Nursing Degree Schools

1. University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire

Online Bachelor’s in Nursing Completion Program

The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire offers a fully bachelor’s in nursing completion program. The program features both online asynchronous and synchronous coursework. This flexible format allows students to benefit from in-person instruction. It also gives them the chance to connect with their peers. With annual undergraduate tuition under $9,000, it is the most affordable online BSN program on our list. 

The entire program can be completed in about two years. Courses are offered in 7 and 14-week sessions, including the summer term. The required core courses include:

• Research & Evidence-Based Practice
• Foundations of Professional Nursing Practice
• Community Health Nursing
• Leadership & Management
• Chronic Care Management
• Information Management and Healthcare Technology
• Bridge to Professional Nursing
• Nursing Within Systems: Analysis and Application

There is one required clinical that will be arranged by the student close to where they live. Students can also personalize their experience with over a dozen fascinating electives. Additionally, some students may participate in independent study in areas of special interest. This is accomplished with the guidance of a faculty member. And it is open to juniors and seniors. Approval by the department chair is required. 

This is an excellent program for students who also want to pursue a graduate nursing degree. Qualified students can enroll in the school’s R.N./B.S.N./M.S.N. option. This allows them to earn credits toward the M.S.N. while completing their bachelor’s online nursing degree. For this option, students will need to obtain permission from the Nursing Graduate Programs Director.

The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). It is also approved by the Wisconsin State Board of Nursing. Applications are accepted throughout the year. To be considered for admission to the program, candidates must have:

• Earned an associate degree from an  accredited ADN program 
• Hold a current Minnesota or Wisconsin RN license
• Competed at least 30 transfer credits and 3 of 5 required science courses with at least a 2.5 GPA.

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Tuition: $8,874 

Score: 9

Related: Top Online Master’s in Nursing Degree Programs

Oklahoma State University

Online Nursing Degree Program

Oklahoma State University offers a 120-credit hour online Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The program can be completed in as little as nine to twelve months for students with transfer credits. Courses are offered 100 percent online and delivered through Canvas. And new cohorts start every semester. Students can enroll full or part-time. The required nursing courses include:

• Principles of Epidemiology
• Health Issues in Gerontology
• Health Assessment, Community Health, and Wellness
• Theoretical and Conceptual Foundations of Nursing
• Cultural Consideration in Health Care
• Global and Public Health
• Trends and Issues in Nursing
• Leadership and Management in Nursing
• Nursing Research and Evidenced-Based Practice

All participants will also complete an RN to BSN Capstone Course. In addition, two courses have a clinical component. However, students are not required to come to campus. Instead, they will complete their clinical experience in appropriate locations close to home. 

Applicants must hold an RN license in their state of residence. This provides advanced standing credit of 30 hours for a nursing diploma or associate degree. Students are encouraged to complete any pre-requisite courses before starting their nursing coursework. 

Oklahoma State University is a Carnegie top-tier research university. And it has been named the #1 top college in Oklahoma. Additionally, it has ranked among the top 10 online colleges in the nation. Students enrolled in the online nursing program at OSU are taught by the same leading faculty that teach on campus. And they earn the same degree as those who attend in person. 

OSU is our second choice thanks to the school’s affordable tuition of just $9,244 a year. Additionally, the school has expert financial aid counselors to assist students in accessing funding to pay for their nursing education. And some student scholarships are available for those who apply by the priority deadline. To gain admission to the online bachelor’s program, students must submit:

• Transcripts from previous institutions. This includes the associate degree or nursing diploma and any coursework completed in the OSU system. A 2.5 minimum GPA is required.
• OSU application and fee as a transfer student
• Unrestricted RN license in Oklahoma or current state of residence

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Tuition: $9,244 

Score: 9

University of Florida

Online RN to BSN Program

The University of Florida offers an excellent online nursing program. It is designed for registered nurses in Flordia who want to become leaders in the field. The program is open to candidates who have already earned their associate degrees in nursing. Those who complete the program will be prepared to advance their roles in a variety of care settings. Plus, it will ready them for a nursing graduate degree program. 

At under $130 per credit hour, UF offers the most affordable program on our list. However, the school is more selective than our first two choices. So you’ll need to work a little harder to get into this program. 

The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. And it is also approved by the Florida Board of Nursing. It is 100 percent online, with no campus visits required. However, students must satisfy 45 hours of clinical experience within their own locations. Some of the required courses for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing include:

• Professional Nursing in the Evolving Healthcare System
• Pathophysiology and Pharmacology
• Legal and  Ethical Issues in Nursing
• Genetics and Genomics in Nursing Practice
• Inquiry and Evidence in Professional Nursing Practice
• Policy and Change in Nursing Practice
• Leadership and Innovation in Nursing Practice

The program admits students only once a year for the Spring semester. And applicants must meet strict admissions criteria. For example, candidates must have the following:

• An associate’s degree in nursing from an ACEN-accredited program
• An active, unencumbered RN license from Florida. Alternatively, they may have enhanced licensure through the Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC) 
• A GPA of 2.8 or higher in all nursing coursework

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $6,381 

Score: 8

University of Texas at Arlington

BS in Nursing Online

Registered Nurse to BSN Online

The University of Texas at Arlington offers two online nursing programs. 

The first is the 51-credit BS in Nursing Online Program. This accelerated program can be completed in as few as 15 months and boasts a strong graduation rate. Plus, the program’s first-time National Council Licensure Examination pass rates exceed 90 percent. These are impressive numbers. And they demonstrate the school’s ability to provide students with a quality education.

The courses are delivered 100 percent online and include a blend of liberal arts and nursing courses. However, All students in this bachelor’s in nursing program will complete supervised clinical experiences at one of several sites in Texas. Some of the required courses for the online nursing BS include:

• Health Policy, Legal Aspects & Informatics in Nursing
• Holistic Health Assessment
• Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing
• Clinical Nursing Foundations
• Nursing of Children and Adolescents
• Nursing of the Childbearing Family
• Nursing Leadership & Management
• Population and Community Health Nursing
• Nursing of Adults with Complex Needs

The second undergraduate nursing program is the RN to BSN Online. This option is a 35-credit hour program that can be completed in as little as nine months. Full and part-time students are welcome. Some of the courses in this program include:

• Holistic Health Assessment Across the Lifespan
• Holistic Care of Older Adults
• Promoting Healthy Lifestyles
• Role Transition to Professional Nursing
• Nursing Research
• Nursing Leadership & Management
• Population and Community Health Nursing

This program features multiple start dates to accommodate busy working professionals. In addition, UTA offers affordable tuition rates and pay-as-you-go-options. Financial aid may also be available for both degree programs. To apply, for this RN to BSN online, students must meet the following criteria:

• Complete and submit the online application with the application fee
• Provide proof of an active, unencumbered RN license
• Submit official transcripts of courses completed and degrees conferred by an accredited institution. Must show a GPA of at least 2.25 GPA.
• Submit a completed Texas Success Initiative (TSI)

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $11,727

Score: 8

Kent State University

Online Nursing Program

Kent State University offers an excellent 100 percent online nursing program. It can be completed either full or part-time through the College of Nursing. It is also completely asynchronous, so students can work on their studies whenever it is convenient for them. This allows busy working nurses to accelerate their careers and still maintain full-time jobs. 

The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. And it is also approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing. Additionally, Kent State University holds another impressive title. The school has been designated a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education by the National League for Nursing three times. 

Dedicated students can complete this online nursing program in as few as 12 months of study. And they receive plenty of individualized guidance from the school’s experienced academic advisors. Classes start every seven weeks, so you can begin working toward your goals immediately. Students are taught by master’s and doctoral-level nursing educators with decades of experience. Additionally, This highly flexible online program can be personalized according to your area of focus. Some of the courses include:

• Information and Patient Care Technology for Healthcare Professionals
• Introduction to Evidence-Based Practice for Registered Nurses
• Concepts and Issues for Professional Nursing Practice
• Leadership and Management for Professional Nursing Practice
• Health Promotion
• Population-based Nursing for Professional Nursing Practice
• Health Maintenance and Restoration for Professional Nursing Practice
• Health Care Policy

Online students at Kent State have access to the same resources as students who attend on campus. They are always welcome to visit and participate in any of the activities and events at the university. All learners also have access to 24/7 technical support. Additionally, the school utilizes a centralized online portal so students can track progress, appointments, classes, and more from one dashboard. 

To apply to the program, students must:

• Show proof of admission in good standing from an associate degree or diploma nursing program
• Have a minimum 2.0 overall GPA on a 4.0 scale 
• Completion of required science courses with a cumulative 2.0 GPA
• Hold an active, unrestricted RN license in their state of residency

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Tuition: $11,934

Score: 8

University of Cincinnati

Online Nursing Program

The University of Cincinnati offers a nationally-recognized online nursing program. Fully online and asynchronous, there are no clinical requirements for completion. This program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. And it is identical to the bachelor’s in nursing offered on campus. It is a 27-credit hour, nine-course program that takes approximately 12 to 15 months to finish. Students can attend part-time or full-time. Courses are offered two times each semester and last seven weeks. They include:

• Health Issues of Vulnerable & Marginalized Populations 
• Informatics for Professional Nurses 
• Transitions to Baccalaureate Education in Nursing 
• Scientific Basis for Evidence-Based Practice 
• Nurse as Professional Leader & Manager 
• Gerontological Nursing Practice 
• Capstone Experiences 
• Learning with Technology 
• Focus on Community 

The program admits students each semester. And all students enjoy dedicated support from program advisors and faculty members. There is also an option for students to minor in public health. The curriculum prepares participants to continue their education and pursue an MS or DNP program if desired.

Tuition for the online program is covered by the Cincinnati Tuition Guarantee. The guarantee locks in your rate for the duration of your program. Ohio residents pay $549 per credit hour, while non-residents pay $564. Additionally, financial aid is available. 

This program does not require students to have completed general education courses for entry. However, those who have not completed them as part of an associate degree must do so during the program. Admissions requirements for this RN to BSN online include:

• Complete the UC online application
• Provide official transcripts of previous coursework with a recommended minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA. (Applicants with a lower GPA may still be considered for admission).
• Hold an active, unrestricted RN license
• Have completed a diploma in nursing or an associate degree from an accredited college

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Tuition: $12,598

Score: 8

Ohio University

Online RN to BSN Program

Ohio University offers an award-winning 100 percent online BSN degree. It is entirely asynchronous and flexible, allowing you to take courses around your busy schedule. Students can log in and complete their studies whenever it is convenient for them. The School of Nursing is part of the College of Health Sciences and Professions. So you will earn your online nursing degree from one of the largest and most respected health sciences schools in the U.S.

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program requires 120 credits in total. However, many of those can be transferred to Ohio University. In fact, only 31 credit hours (nine nursing courses) must be completed at the school. That means that you may be able to complete the nursing degree in a year or less. However, most students finish this accelerated program in about two years. All of the required courses are offered in five-week sessions and include:

• Professional Nursing Practice
• Health Assessment and Promotion
• Family Nursing
• Community Health Nursing
• Evidence-Based Nursing Practice
• Gerontologic Nursing Care
• Diversity
• Leadership in Nursing
• Nursing Excellence

This nursing degree is affordable as well. Ohio University offers convenient payment options. Application wavers are typically available. And students get their first nursing course free. It is applied as a scholarship valued at the cost of tuition and fees. Additionally, Federal financial aid, grants, scholarships, and low-interest loans may be available. Students applying to the program must meet the following requirements:

• Have earned a diploma or an associate degree in Nursing
• Have a minimum GPA of 2.0 or higher
• Hold an active, unencumbered RN license in their state of residency. (Only applicants from specific states may apply).

Ohio University offers many resources to its online students. So although you may be studying independently, you are never alone. Students can take advantage of services like:

• Counseling and psychological services
• Academic support
• Career services
• Ohio online success center
• Technology support
• Proctored testing services
• 24/7 online tutoring and writing service

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Tuition: $12,840

Score: 8

Pennsylvania State University

Online RN to BSN Program

Penn State World Campus offers an online RN to BSN with several flexible options. All of the courses are 100 percent online, and you can take classes from anywhere. With this RN to BSN program, you can fulfill the clinical requirements from where you live with no residencies required. However, if you live near the campus, you can also blend online and in-person learning if you desire. Additionally, students can take this program in an Accelerated RN to BSN format. 

No matter which format you choose, the nursing degree programs each require 120 credits. You can transfer credits from another institution. However, participants must earn 36 of the last 60 credits through Penn State. The prescribed nursing courses include:

• Principles of Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice
• Advanced Health Assessment for the Registered Nurse
• Introduction to Nursing Informatics
• Transition and the Professional Nursing Role
• Family and Community Health Concepts
• Health Concepts for Adults with Complex Health Care Needs
• Integrated Concepts in Nursing Practice

Students will also take several portfolio assessment courses and some supporting courses. A few of these include:

• Pathophysiology
• Introduction to Pharmacological Concepts
• Nursing Care of Children and Adolescents
• Mental Health Nursing
• Health and Environmental Sustainability
• Introduction to Forensic Nursing
• Organization and Administration for the Nurse Manager
• Data Management for Nurse Managers
• Nursing Management of Human Resources
• Ethical Challenges in Health Care Informatics

The online nursing bachelor’s programs are designed for RNs who want to advance their careers. Ultimately, it can help you move into leadership roles in the field. But it also serves as a solid foundation for graduate-level studies. In addition, students can choose to further personalize their studies with one of three certificates. Choose from Nursing Forensics, Informatics, or Management. 

To apply to this program, applicants must:

• Have completed high school or earned their GED
• Be licensed registered nurses in the state they plan to complete their clinical hours
• Provide all official college, university, or military transcripts

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Tuition: $14,338

Score: 8

See also: Top Online Bachelor’s in Health Informatics

Utica University

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Online RN to BSN)

The online bachelor’s in nursing program offered at Utica University is an asynchronous online nursing degree program. Designed for busy working professionals, it is highly flexible with no residency requirements. Students can log in and complete their studies whenever it is convenient for them. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. And you can begin this bachelors of nursing degree online during the spring, summer, or fall terms. 

This 61-credit-hour program can be completed in 20 months of full-time study. However, students can also opt to work through the program part-time. One of the top features of this particular program is the school’s generous transfer policy. Students can transfer up to 90 credits to complete their online nursing degree even faster. The required nursing courses include:

• Socialization to Professional Nursing
• Health Assessment in Professional Nursing Practice
• Leadership and Informatics in Professional Nursing
• Pathophysiology
• Pharmacology
• Care of Populations and Communities in Professional Nursing Practice
• Health Policy Management in Professional Nursing
• Trends and Issues in Professional Nursing Practice
• End-of-Life and Palliative Care Practice

The program also offers students a wide selection of liberal arts electives. These courses can provide students with an even broader perspective. They include courses on caring for the elderly, treating chemical dependence, and more. However, students are not required to choose a specialization. This program does not require clinical hours because the online courses satisfy the requirements. Online students at Utica University benefit from a long list of services, including:

• Free online mental health counseling
• Free access to Microsoft Office.
• Free Email storage, Google Calendar, cloud storage, and more
• 24/7 online technical and learning support
• Access to the school’s Library Databases
• Personalized career coaching

Federal financial aid, scholarships, and grants are available to help students pay for the program. Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Have earned a DNP or associate degree in nursing from a regionally accredited college (alternatively, you may apply if you have 57 credits from a four-year college and an RN license).
• Must be licenced registered nurses in the state where they plan to practice
• Completed application and fees
• Transcripts from all previous institutions
• Proof of completion of prerequisite courses with a grade C or better

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Tuition: $24,214

Score: 7

George Washington University

Online Nursing Degree Program

George Washington University offers our final top online nursing degree program. This nationally-recognized program is available in a fully online and asynchronous format. It consists of 21 credits of coursework and the completion of a professional portfolio (15 additional credits). The dynamic curriculum is taught by the school’s exceptionally qualified health professional faculty. Some of the general and elective courses include:

• Patient Safety and Health Care Quality
• Community and Public Health
• Concepts in Population Health
• Nursing Leadership
• Genetics for Health Care Providers
• Health Economics and Finance
• Health Policy, Quality, and Political Processes

The program is designed for RNs or associate degree holders eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam. The school has agreements with many nearby community colleges. This may entitle some students to guaranteed admissions. Other admissions requirements include:

• 84 credits from a regionally accredited institution
• Associate’s Degree in Nursing or an Associate of Science in Nursing)
• Preferred GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale 
• Official transcripts from all post-secondary schools
• Two letters of recommendation
• Current resume
• Statement of Purpose
• Active nursing license

Although GWU is the most expensive program on our list, the School of Nursing offers fixed-rate tuition for most of its nursing programs. This can help minimize costs. Additionally, the school offers scholarships, financial aid, and other opportunities. 

For those who live in the area, the university has a unique partnership with GW hospital. Students can enjoy full tuition coverage and job placement after graduation through this partnership. 

George Washington University boasts an 84% graduation rate and a  87.4% pass rate on the NLCEX exam. These impressive figures show the school’s commitment to ensuring student success. Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Submit a resume, statement of purpose, and two letters of recommendation
• Have earned at least 84 credits from a regionally accredited institution
• Have an Associate’s Degree in Nursing from a regionally accredited institution
• Have a GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
• Provide official transcripts from all post-secondary schools
• Hold an active and unencumbered RN license

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Tuition: $59,870

Score: 6

Career Outlook for Those With Online Nursing Bachelor Degrees

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for those in nursing is expected to rise steadily. It is projected to grow six percent through 2031. This is about as quickly as the average for all other occupations. This projected growth is due to a greater emphasis on health care and illness prevention. Additionally, the baby-boom generation is living longer and more active lives. So the demand for registered nurses and healthcare services is consistent. 

The Bureau of Labor Statistics also reports that Registered Nurses can expect to make $77,600 per year on average. However, in this field, the more you learn, the more you earn. An online bachelor’s in nursing degree can advance your career and boost your yearly income substantially.  

What Can You Do With a Bachelor of Science in Nursing?

Most people imagine being a nurse involves working directly with patients. However, there are many careers you can pursue other than bedside nursing. Of course, those with a bachelor’s degree in nursing can pursue leadership roles in traditional healthcare settings. Yet many high-paying jobs for BSNs don’t require working with patients at all. Traditional nursing involves long hours and irregular shifts. If you’re experiencing burnout or looking for a career change, the following roles might interest you.

Forensic Nurse

Average Annual Salary: $94,320 

Forensic nurses cooperate with law enforcement to gather evidence for criminal investigations. 

Health Policy Nurse

Average Annual Salary: $79,872

Health policy nurses help create policies that impact public health and nursing practice.

Nurse Educator

Average Annual Salary: $105,281

Nurse educators teach other aspiring nurses in clinical settings and classrooms.

Nurse Recruiter

Average Annual Salary: $86,763

Nurse recruiters help hospitals and other facilities encourage and recruit nurses.

Nurse Informaticist

Average Annual Salary: $92,195

Nurse informaticists maintain the integrity of patients’ electronic health records to improve care.

Nurse Health Coach

Average Annual Salary: $102,140

Nurse health coaches advocate for patients and help them meet their health and wellness goals. 

Legal Nurse Consultant

Average Annual Salary: $115,308

Legal nurse consultants provide their nursing expertise and advice to attorneys handling medical-related legal cases.

Clinical Research Nurse

Average Annual Salary: $98,417 

Clinical Research Nurses help scientists study diseases and develop treatments and cures. 

*Salary information comes from glassdoor, salary.com, and ZipRecruiter

How Long Does It Take To Complete Online BSN Programs?

Most traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs require 120 credits for completion. This equates to roughly four years of study. For part-time students, it will take longer to earn a BSN degree. However, there are many variables regarding how long it takes to earn an online nursing degree.

For example, many nurses earn their associate degree in nursing (ADN) before attending a BSN program. And many of those pass their state board exams and become licensed registered nurses.

A bachelor’s online nursing program can take significantly less time for these nurses. That’s because they have already earned many of the credit hours required for a BSN. Plus, they generally have completed most prerequisite courses. As a result, most of these students can finish an online BSN program in under three years. In some cases, students can pursue an accelerated program and graduate in one to two years. 

The time it takes to complete a BSN degree will vary among students. Busy professionals already working full-time will probably need longer to complete an online program. Those not working and who devote their full-time attention to their studies might finish sooner than most. That’s why online BSN programs are ideal. They are flexible enough to accommodate the scheduling needs of many types of students. 

This concludes our article on the top online bachelor degree nursing programs in the US.