As the need for nurses keeps increasing, a growing number of professionals and students are starting or advancing their careers through online nursing schools.
Regardless of your level of experience, online learning provides a variety of degree alternatives, flexibility, and accessibility for those in the healthcare industry. The internet has made it simpler than ever to obtain a nursing degree online without compromising quality, from online CNA courses to online nurse practitioner programs.
The top online nursing programs for aspiring and practicing nurses are reviewed here, along with details on costs, flexibility, and advantages and disadvantages of each.
If you’re still comparing career tracks, online nursing isn’t the only flexible healthcare path. You may also want to explore medical billing and coding classes, which are faster to complete, or online psychology degrees, which lead to mental health and counseling roles. For leadership-oriented roles, online doctoral programs such as a DNP or a PsyD may be more appropriate.
University of Florida
Degree Offered: RN to BSN Online
Why It Stands Out: UF offers one of the most respected rn to bsn online programs in the country. It’s fully online, designed for registered nurses who want to earn a bachelor’s degree while continuing to work.
Pros: Affordable in-state tuition; excellent academic reputation
Cons: Competitive admissions process
Purdue University Global
Degree Offered: Online LPN to RN, RN to BSN, MSN
Why It Stands Out: Purdue Global offers flexible online nursing programs tailored to adult learners. Their online LPN programs allow licensed practical nurses to move up, while their RN to BSN and MSN options support long-term career growth.
Pros: Multiple start dates; generous credit transfer
Cons: Less peer interaction than in-person programs
Western Governors University (WGU)
Degree Offered: RN to BSN, MSN, Nurse Educator
Why It Stands Out: WGU’s self-paced model is ideal for motivated students. The RN to BSN can be completed in as little as 18 months, making it one of the most efficient nursing degrees online.
Pros: Affordable flat-rate tuition; competency-based format
Cons: Requires strong time-management skills
Chamberlain University
Degree Offered: BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, Nurse Practitioner
Why It Stands Out: Chamberlain specializes in nursing and healthcare, offering a wide range of online nursing programs, including online nurse practitioner programs. Their curriculum focuses on evidence-based practice and leadership.
Pros: Nursing-focused institution; year-round admissions
Cons: Higher tuition compared to state schools
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)
Degree Offered: RN to BSN
Why It Stands Out: SNHU offers an affordable and flexible rn to bsn online program that fits the schedules of working nurses.
Pros: Multiple term starts; 24/7 coursework access
Cons: No hands-on lab or clinical component
University of Cincinnati
Degree Offered: MSN, Nurse Midwifery, Nurse Practitioner
Why It Stands Out: UC’s online nurse practitioner programs are nationally ranked and offer specializations like family NP and women’s health NP. These programs are best for nurses with a BSN looking to enter advanced practice.
Pros: Strong clinical placement support; high NCLEX pass rates
Cons: Requires a prior nursing degree
Rasmussen University
Degree Offered: CNA Classes Online, LPN, RN to BSN
Why It Stands Out: Rasmussen provides stackable online nursing programs, starting with CNA classes online and advancing through LPN and RN levels. This is ideal for students who want to progress step-by-step in their careers.
Pros: Entry points at every level; practical skills focus
Cons: Regional accreditation may limit transfer credits
Ohio State University
Degree Offered: RN to BSN, MSN
Why It Stands Out: OSU’s online RN programs combine academic excellence with affordability. Students receive access to high-quality instruction and supportive faculty.
Pros: Reputable public university; strong alumni network
Cons: Only available to licensed RNs
Aspen University
Degree Offered: RN to BSN, MSN
Why It Stands Out: Aspen offers one of the most affordable nursing degrees online, with monthly payment plans and no set class times. Ideal for working nurses.
Pros: Budget-friendly; no entrance exams
Cons: Limited specialization options
Maryville University
Degree Offered: BSN to DNP, Nurse Practitioner
Why It Stands Out: Maryville’s fully online nurse practitioner programs do not require any campus visits. The curriculum is focused on preparing students for real-world clinical practice.
Pros: No GRE; 100% online coursework
Cons: Advanced roles only—must already have a BSN
Final Thoughts
There has never been a better moment to think about online nursing programs, whether your goal is to become a nurse practitioner by earning a master’s degree in nursing or beginning your career with online CNA classes.
These degrees are flexible and frequently made for parents and working professionals. From online LPN programs to MSN or DNP degrees, online programs at Purdue Global, Chamberlain, and WGU provide pathways for all nursing levels.
While some, like OSU or the University of Cincinnati, combine academic quality with renown, others, like Rasmussen or Aspen, offer reduced tuition costs and the flexibility to progress at your own speed.
Your preferred learning style, long-term objectives, and present qualifications will determine the greatest fit.