Online Nursing Programs and Nursing Degrees

With so many options of degrees and online nursing programs available, knowing what factors to consider can help you make a choice best suited to your needs and ambitions.

• Types of Nursing Degrees
• Online Nursing Programs
• Choosing an Online Nursing Program
• FAQs

Types of Nursing Degrees and Education

• Nursing Diplomas
• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
• Post-Master’s Certificate
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Nursing Diplomas

A nursing diploma is a nursing credential that prepares students for an entry-level nursing position. Length varies by program and state, and diplomas can result in a number of certifications and nursing positions:

Certified nursing assistant (CNA). Under federal nursing-facility rules, a nurse aide training program must include at least 75 clock hours of training, including at least 16 hours of supervised practical training (42 CFR 483.152). Program format and length vary by state and school, so confirm with your state whether a program offers coursework online. Students learn skills such as taking vital signs and providing personal care, including bathing, grooming, toileting and feeding. To be listed on a state nurse aide registry, a candidate must pass both a written or oral examination and a skills demonstration (42 CFR 483.154), after which you can work as a nursing assistant or nurse aide.

Licensed practical nurse (LPN). LPNs, also sometimes called licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) in some states, are licensed by their state board of nursing, and NCSBN describes the NCLEX-PN as assessing the knowledge, skills, abilities and clinical judgment essential for entry-level LPN/VNs (NCLEX-PN test plan). The exam covers tasks such as administering medications, monitoring vital signs and providing personal hygiene and comfort measures. Program length and format vary by school and state, so confirm that a program is approved by your state board of nursing before you enroll. Career advancement to a registered nurse (RN) position is possible through bridge programs.

Registered nurse (RN). RN diploma programs prepare students for entry-level RN practice, and program length and providers vary. Graduates must meet their state board of nursing’s requirements, including the NCLEX-RN, to be licensed (NCLEX FAQs). Some employers prefer RN applicants with a bachelor’s degree, as the dated survey evidence under Online BSN Programs below shows, so check minimum educational requirements for your desired role carefully.

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

An Associate Degree in Nursing is an undergraduate nursing degree that prepares students for licensure as a registered nurse. ADN program length varies by school and enrollment status. Graduates of a board-approved program must meet their state board of nursing’s requirements, including the NCLEX exam, to be licensed. Each nursing regulatory body sets its own eligibility requirements to take the NCLEX, and passing the exam does not by itself grant a license, because the board issues it (NCLEX FAQs).

Licensed registered nurses may work in settings such as acute care, long-term care, rehabilitation care, outpatient care and community-based or home care, which NCSBN lists among the practice settings used to develop NCLEX-RN items (2026 NCLEX-RN Test Plan). ADN-prepared nurses can also continue their education through RN-to-BSN bridge programs, described below.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is another pathway to become a registered nurse. AACN describes the four-year BSN as providing the educational and experiential base for entry-level professional practice and as the platform on which to build a career through graduate-level study (AACN). Employer hiring preferences vary and are covered with dated survey evidence under Online BSN Programs below. Registered nurses may also work in specialty areas such as surgical nursing or ICU nursing. For leadership and teaching roles, AACN describes nurse administrators and nurse educators among the roles that graduate programs prepare nurses for (AACN master’s education); see more on the work of a nurse educator.

A BSN also positions students to pursue a master’s or doctoral degree in the future, if they choose to. AACN describes post-baccalaureate DNP programs as one of the formats for doctoral study (AACN DNP fact sheet).

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

A Master of Science in Nursing is a graduate degree of nursing that can be obtained after a BSN or through an RN-to-MSN bridge program. AACN reports that most baccalaureate-to-master’s programs may be completed in 18–24 months of full-time study, and that RN-to-master’s programs take about two to three years, with requirements varying by institution (AACN master’s education).

MSN programs serve RNs seeking more specialized clinical nursing roles and students seeking non-clinical roles. NCSBN’s APRN consensus model recognizes four advanced practice roles (certified nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, certified registered nurse anesthetist and certified nurse-midwife) and calls for completion of postgraduate education (NCSBN). AACN describes nurse administrators, nurse educators and nurse informaticists among the roles that master’s-prepared nurses fill outside direct clinical practice (AACN master’s education). According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), median annual wages for nurse practitioners and nurse midwives are higher than the median for registered nurses overall. An MSN degree may also be a stepping stone to a post-master’s certificate or Doctor of Nursing Practice degree, as described below.

Post-Master’s Certificate

For nurses who already hold a master’s degree but want to specialize in another area or expand responsibilities in their current role, a post-master’s certificate can help them do that. For example, emergency nurse practitioner (ENP) certification requires current family nurse practitioner (FNP) certification, and one eligibility option is completing an approved graduate or postgraduate ENP academic program (NPCB ENP handbook). Post-graduate certificate routes are also described for clinical nurse specialists (NACNS) and adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioners (ANCC). Program length varies by specialization and school. AACN also describes post-master’s DNP programs as a doctoral option for nurses who already hold a master’s degree (AACN DNP fact sheet).

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a doctoral degree in nursing designed for nurses seeking a terminal degree in nursing practice, according to AACN (AACN DNP fact sheet). AACN’s fact sheet describes three entry formats: post-baccalaureate, post-master’s and entry-level (prelicensure) DNP programs. Program length and admission requirements vary by program, entry point and whether you study full time or part time.

AACN states that DNP programs prepare nurse leaders at the highest level of nursing practice to improve patient outcomes and translate research into practice, and that DNP-prepared nurses work as nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists and clinical leaders (AACN DNP fact sheet). AACN also lists roles such as nurse educator, nurse administrator, nurse informaticist, public health nurse and public policy roles for nurses with doctoral degrees (AACN DNP education). If you’re weighing a practice doctorate against other options, you can compare the MSN with the DNP or the DNP with a Ph.D. in nursing.

Median wages for common nursing roles

Wages differ across nursing roles. The BLS published these national median annual wages and estimated employment counts for May 2025 through its OEWS program. For comparison, the median annual wage for all U.S. occupations was $50,980.

• Nursing assistants: $42,260 median annual wage; estimated employment of 1,448,910
• LPNs and LVNs: $64,400 median annual wage; estimated employment of 648,410
• Registered nurses: $97,550 median annual wage; estimated employment of 3,379,720
• Nurse practitioners: $132,300 median annual wage; estimated employment of 323,040
• Nurse midwives: $134,040 median annual wage; estimated employment of 7,920
• Nurse anesthetists: $236,590 median annual wage; estimated employment of 51,840

The figures are national estimates across all industries. Employment counts are rounded to the nearest 10 and exclude self-employed workers. BLS OEWS does not publish a separate estimate for clinical nurse specialists.

Online Nursing Programs

• Online CNA Programs
• Online LVN/LPN Programs
• Online ADN Programs
• Online BSN Programs
• Online RN Programs
• Online MSN Programs
• Online APRN Programs
• Online NP Programs
• Online DNP Programs
• Accelerated Online Nursing Programs
• Dual Nursing Programs Online
• Online Bridge Programs

Online Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Programs

Enrolling in an online program can be a convenient way to gain the necessary knowledge and skills to become a certified nursing assistant. Admission requirements and program length for CNA programs vary by state and school, so confirm them with your state before you enroll. Federal nursing-facility rules require a nurse aide training program to include at least 75 clock hours of training, including at least 16 hours of supervised practical training in a laboratory or other setting (42 CFR 483.152), so hands-on practical training is part of an approved program even when coursework is completed online.

Under the general supervision of a licensed nurse, students who provide services to residents practice the skills they are learning (42 CFR 483.152). Federal curriculum requirements include basic nursing skills such as taking vital signs and personal care skills such as bathing, grooming, toileting and feeding. After passing the competency evaluation required for the state nurse aide registry, graduates can work as nursing assistants. According to BLS OEWS data, nursing assistants earned a median annual wage of $42,260 in May 2025.

Online Licensed Vocational/Practical Nurse (LVN/LPN) Programs

There are a number of online programs available to those who are interested in becoming a licensed practical nurse. Admission requirements, program length and format for LPN programs vary by school and state, so confirm that a program is approved by your state board of nursing before you enroll. NCSBN explains that U.S. nursing regulation ties eligibility for the NCLEX to graduating from an approved nursing program (NCSBN). Ask each program how its online coursework and any in-person clinical requirements are structured.

The NCLEX-PN assesses entry-level LPN/VN competencies such as administering medications, monitoring vital signs and providing personal hygiene and comfort measures, and NCSBN develops its exam items from practice settings that include acute and critical care, long-term care, rehabilitation care, skilled care, outpatient care and community-based or home care (2026 NCLEX-PN Test Plan). BLS reports that LPNs and LVNs earned a median annual wage of $64,400 in May 2025.

Online Associate Degree of Nursing (ADN) Programs

Online ADN programs are one degree option for those looking to enter the field of health care as a registered nurse. Program length and clinical arrangements vary by school, so ask how online coursework is combined with in-person clinical experience. LPN-to-RN bridge programs are designed for current LPNs, and admission requirements vary by program, so confirm them with the school. Registered nurses earned a median annual wage of $97,550 in May 2025, according to BLS OEWS data.

Employer preferences and licensure requirements are separate questions, so keep both in mind if you’re deciding between an associate or bachelor’s degree. The dated AACN survey evidence under Online BSN Programs below describes employer preferences from 2023, while licensure is issued by your state board of nursing (NCLEX FAQs).

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN) Programs

Online BSN pathways depend on where you are starting, and admission requirements vary by route and school. RN-to-BSN and LPN-to-BSN programs are bridge routes, so a current nursing license is a requirement of those routes rather than of every BSN program. Programs for people new to nursing use different entry requirements; AACN describes accelerated baccalaureate programs as designed for adults who have already completed a bachelor’s or graduate degree in a non-nursing discipline (AACN). Online LPN-to-BSN and RN-to-BSN programs may allow working nurses to further their education without interrupting their current jobs, and program length varies by school and enrollment status. For more on what to expect, read about earning a BSN online.

In an August 2023 AACN survey of nursing schools (643 schools responded), schools reported that 25.0% of hospitals and other health care settings were requiring new hires to have a bachelor’s degree in nursing and that 69.8% of employers were expressing a strong preference for BSN program graduates (AACN). AACN’s survey page says its 2025 collection was paused (AACN annual surveys), so these figures describe 2023 rather than current hiring conditions, and they do not establish a BSN requirement for RN licensure. Requirements for management roles and for graduate study depend on the employer and the program; AACN describes baccalaureate-to-master’s and post-baccalaureate DNP routes (AACN master’s education; AACN DNP fact sheet).

Online Registered Nurse (RN) Programs

Online RN programs can be a convenient way to kickstart a career as a registered nurse, while juggling the limitations of work schedules and family life. LPNs may look at online LPN-to-RN bridge programs, while non-nursing majors or those new to the nursing field may look at entry-level RN programs; admission requirements vary by program.

RN program length depends on the degree you pursue (for example, an associate or bachelor’s degree), the route and whether you opt for full-time or part-time study; AACN describes the BSN as a four-year degree (AACN). RN wages vary by location, work setting and a host of other factors. In May 2025, the lowest 10% of registered nurses earned less than $68,940, and the highest 10% earned more than $137,470, according to BLS OEWS data.

Online Master’s Degree in Nursing (MSN) Programs

Registered nurses with an ADN or BSN can apply their previous education toward a master’s degree through RN-to-MSN or BSN-to-MSN routes. Online MSN programs vary in length by entry route: AACN reports that RN-to-master’s programs take about two to three years and that most baccalaureate-to-master’s programs may be completed in 18–24 months of full-time study (AACN). Master’s programs can prepare nurses for clinical or non-clinical roles, depending on the program focus; AACN describes nurse administrators, nurse educators and nurse informaticists among the non-clinical roles. Wages vary by role. In May 2025, median annual wages for nurse practitioners ($132,300) and nurse midwives ($134,040) were higher than the median for registered nurses ($97,550), according to BLS OEWS data.

Some programs combine a master’s in nursing with a second specialty or degree, such as another nurse practitioner population focus, public health or business administration. Confirm availability, admission requirements and certification eligibility with each program.

Online Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) Programs

APRNs are nurses who complete postgraduate education for an advanced practice role. NCSBN’s APRN consensus model recognizes four roles (certified nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, certified registered nurse anesthetist and certified nurse-midwife) and describes education at the master’s or post-master’s level, while noting that some states have not adopted all elements of the model (NCSBN). Nurse anesthesia is an exception to the master’s-level description: current COA standards require doctoral preparation for entry-level programs (see the CRNA entry below). Admission and clinical-hour requirements vary by role and program, so review each program’s requirements and the certification requirements for your role. Below is an overview of each type of APRN program you can pursue online.

Nurse practitioner (NP). NP programs prepare nurses for a specific population focus, and program length varies by school, degree level and enrollment status. NCSBN’s APRN model lists population foci that include family/individual across the lifespan, adult-gerontology, women’s health/gender-related, pediatrics, neonatal and psychiatric/mental health (NCSBN). Nurse practitioners can go on to specialize in areas like family care, gerontology, pediatrics or acute care. According to BLS OEWS data, nurse practitioners earned a median annual wage of $132,300 in May 2025.

Clinical nurse specialist (CNS). NACNS describes a CNS as an APRN prepared at the master’s, doctoral or post-graduate certificate level, practicing in population areas that include adult/gerontology, pediatrics and neonatal (NACNS). According to NACNS, the CNS role involves providing direct patient care, leading evidence-based practice, optimizing organizational systems and advancing nursing practice, and CNSs also provide expertise and support to nurses caring for patients at the bedside. Clinical nurse specialists therefore combine patient care with leadership and consultation. BLS OEWS does not publish a separate wage estimate for clinical nurse specialists. So if you’re interested in this role, be sure to examine job descriptions carefully when you’re ready to apply or speak to current clinical nurse specialists in your area to get an idea of what they make. For the education side, see clinical nurse specialist tracks offered online.

Certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA). Under the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA) standards effective January 1, 2026, students accepted into accredited entry-level programs on or after January 1, 2022 must graduate with a doctoral degree, and the postbaccalaureate curriculum is a minimum of three years of full-time study (COA standards). COA requires applicants to hold a baccalaureate or graduate degree in nursing or an appropriate major, an unencumbered license as a registered professional nurse or APRN, and at least one year of full-time critical care experience (or part-time equivalent). Those requirements apply to entry into practice; COA’s standards separately cover post-master’s doctoral programs for practicing CRNAs. Graduates go on to become nurse anesthetists, who provide anesthesia care. According to BLS OEWS data, nurse anesthetists earned a median annual wage of $236,590 in May 2025, compared with $50,980 for all U.S. occupations. Nurses researching this path can also review nurse anesthesia degree options offered online.

Certified nurse-midwife (CNM). Online CNM programs prepare nurses for nurse-midwifery certification. The American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) states that candidates must be successful graduates of an accredited educational program for nurse-midwives or midwives with a graduate degree, that a graduate degree has been required to take the AMCB exam since January 1, 2011, and that CNM candidates must also hold an active RN license (AMCB). Certified nurse-midwife program length varies by school and by full-time or part-time study. According to BLS OEWS data, nurse midwives earned a median annual wage of $134,040 in May 2025.

Online Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs

Online nurse practitioner programs may allow you to advance your degree and career without having to relocate or disrupt your current job. Admission requirements and program length vary by school, degree level and specialty, and certification requirements depend on the population focus, as summarized below. Below are the types of NP programs available and an overview of each.

• Acute care nurse practitioner (ACNP). ACNP programs prepare nurses for acute care practice. ANCC’s adult-gerontology acute care NP (AGACNP) certification requires a master’s, post-graduate certificate or DNP from a program accredited by CCNE, ACEN or the NLN CNEA, with at least 500 faculty-supervised clinical hours included in the program (ANCC). Program length varies by school.
• Family nurse practitioner (FNP). FNP programs prepare nurses for the family/individual-across-the-lifespan population focus recognized in NCSBN’s APRN model (NCSBN). Length varies for online FNP programs depending on whether you are a full-time or part-time student.
• Pediatric nurse practitioner (PNP). PNCB describes the pediatric certification population as “birth through young adult” and notes that state boards of nursing determine scope-of-practice parameters, which vary by state (PNCB). Program formats and practice settings vary by program and employer.
• Neonatal nurse practitioner (NNP). NNPs focus on the neonatal population. NCC’s neonatal nurse practitioner certification requires current, active, unencumbered U.S. nursing or advanced practice nursing licensure and successful completion of an accredited graduate nurse practitioner program that prepares neonatal nurse practitioners, which can be a master’s, DNP or post-master’s program (NCC). Admission requirements for NNP programs vary by school.
• Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNPs). PMHNPs prepare for the psychiatric/mental health population focus recognized in NCSBN’s APRN model (NCSBN). Practice settings, program length and admission requirements vary by program and employer.
• Women’s health nurse practitioner (WHNP). In online WHNP programs, nurses prepare for a role that NCC describes as providing obstetrical, gynecological and primary care to women within inpatient and outpatient settings. NCC certification requires successful completion of an accredited graduate nurse practitioner program that prepares women’s health care nurse practitioners (NCC). Program length varies by school.

Online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Programs

Nurses who want to pursue a doctoral degree without putting their life on hold can do so with an online DNP program. According to AACN, DNP programs prepare nurse leaders at the highest level of nursing practice to improve patient outcomes and translate research into practice (AACN DNP fact sheet). Admission requirements, including licensure, prior degrees and GPA, vary by program and entry point, so confirm them with each school.

AACN’s DNP fact sheet describes post-baccalaureate (BSN-to-DNP) and post-master’s (MSN-to-DNP) formats (AACN DNP fact sheet). Program length and enrollment options vary, and full-time versus part-time online enrollment affects how long a program takes.

AACN lists roles for nurses with doctoral degrees that include advanced practice registered nurse, nurse educator, nurse administrator, nurse informaticist, public health nurse and public policy roles (AACN DNP education). BLS OEWS reports wages by occupation rather than by degree, so it does not publish a DNP-specific wage; see the role medians above for comparison.

Accelerated Nursing Programs Online

Accelerated online nursing programs are designed to shorten the time it takes to complete a nursing degree. AACN describes accelerated baccalaureate programs as the quickest route to RN licensure for adults who have already completed a bachelor’s or graduate degree in a non-nursing discipline (AACN). Below are the types of accelerated nursing programs offered online.

Accelerated ADN: Length and admission requirements for accelerated ADN options vary by program, so confirm them directly with the school and your state board of nursing. Graduates of a board-approved ADN program may be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN, and the state board of nursing issues the RN license (NCLEX FAQs).

Accelerated BSN: AACN states that fast-track entry-level baccalaureate programs take between 11 and 18 months to complete, including prerequisites, and are designed for adults who have already completed a bachelor’s or graduate degree in a non-nursing discipline (AACN). Graduates must still meet their state board of nursing’s licensure requirements, including the NCLEX-RN.

Accelerated MSN: AACN describes entry-level master’s programs, which serve adults with a prior non-nursing bachelor’s degree, as generally taking about 15–36 months depending on program requirements and full- or part-time study (AACN accelerated programs); its master’s education page gives about 15–30 months, with baccalaureate-level content and initial RN licensure completed during the first year (AACN master’s education). Whether a master’s program leads to APRN eligibility depends on whether it prepares you for a specific APRN role and population focus, and APRN practice also requires national certification and state licensure (NCSBN). Learn more about direct-entry master’s programs for non-nurses.

Nurses with an MSN who complete the role-specific preparation, certification and licensure required for an APRN role can work as nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists or certified nurse-midwives (NCSBN). Master’s programs also prepare nurses for non-clinical roles such as nurse administrator, nurse educator and nurse informaticist (AACN). Wages vary by role; see the BLS medians above for roles with published estimates.

Dual Nursing Programs Online

Dual degree nursing programs allow those who want to become a nurse to pursue two degrees simultaneously. Whether a dual degree saves time or money depends on how much coursework overlaps and on each program’s structure, so compare credits, tuition and clinical requirements. Below is an overview of some common dual nursing programs offered online. For more on pairing an MSN with a second degree, see our dual-degree overview.

MSN/MPH. An MSN/MPH program is designed for those who want to further their studies in clinical nursing and broaden their knowledge of public health. Admission requirements, GPA expectations and program length vary by school. Completing an MSN/MPH does not by itself make you eligible for an APRN role: nurse practitioner or nurse-midwife practice requires role- and population-specific graduate preparation, national certification and state licensure (NCSBN). The MPH component prepares nurses for public health work.

MSN/MBA. Another dual degree nurses can pursue is an MSN/MBA, in which both an MSN and an MBA are earned simultaneously online or in-person. Program length varies by school and enrollment status. A dual MSN/MBA program combines nursing coursework with business management and leadership coursework, so check the curriculum and any role-specific requirements for the career you want.

FNP dual degree programs are a viable option for nurses who want to gain knowledge in the area of family nursing—and combine that knowledge with competencies and skills in additional nursing specialties.

FNP/ACNP. A dual FNP/ACNP program is designed to prepare graduates to pursue certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and as an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. Each certification has its own eligibility requirements; for example, ANCC’s AGACNP certification requires a master’s, post-graduate certificate or DNP from an accredited program that includes at least 500 faculty-supervised clinical hours (ANCC). Admission requirements for dual programs, including any prior nursing experience, vary by school.

FNP/ENP. Another dual degree offered for prospective nurse practitioners is the family nurse practitioner and emergency nurse practitioner track. Emergency nurse practitioner (ENP) certification requires current FNP certification and current, active professional nurse licensure, so a dual program does not by itself make you eligible for the ENP exam. The certifier’s ENP candidate handbook lists three eligibility options: documented emergency care clinical practice hours with emergency-related continuing education, completion of an approved graduate or postgraduate ENP academic program, or completion of an approved advanced practice fellowship in emergency care (NPCB ENP handbook). Program length and format vary by school.

Online Bridge Programs

Online bridge programs allow students to further their education and advance into higher-level nursing positions without having to quit work and go back to school full-time. Bridge programs build on a nursing license or prior nursing education, and requirements and length vary by program. There are a few common bridge programs. Learn about some of them below, or see more on how nursing bridge programs work:

• LPN-to-RN. An LPN-to-RN bridge program allows current LPNs/LVNs to earn an associate or bachelor’s degree in nursing, depending on the program. Graduates of a board-approved program may be eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN, and the state board of nursing, not the exam alone, issues the RN license (NCLEX FAQs). Admissions requirements vary by program.
• RN-to-BSN. RN-to-BSN programs allow licensed RNs to earn a bachelor’s degree; length and admission requirements vary by program. AACN describes the traditional BSN as a four-year degree (AACN).
• RN-to-MSN. An RN-to-MSN program provides RNs a route to a master’s degree; AACN reports that RN-to-master’s programs take about two to three years, with requirements varying by institution (AACN). Whether a program prepares you for an APRN role such as nurse practitioner or certified nurse-midwife depends on its role and population focus, and APRN practice also requires national certification and state licensure (NCSBN).
• BSN-to-DNP. Those who already have a bachelor’s degree in nursing can enroll in a BSN-to-DNP program online, which AACN classifies as a post-baccalaureate DNP program (AACN DNP fact sheet). Admission requirements, program length and the degrees awarded vary by program, so confirm them with each school. Graduates may pursue clinical practice and leadership roles, as described in the DNP section above.

Choosing an Online Nursing Program

With so many options out there, finding the right online nursing program for you might feel tedious and overwhelming. But putting in the dedicated time and thorough research is crucial to find the program that meets your interests, goals and timeline. The information in the following sections can help to guide you through the process so that you make the most informed choices for your education.

Factors to Compare When Choosing an Online Nursing School

Whether it’s accreditation, admission requirements or the number of clinical hours required, there are several factors that may make certain schools and programs more or less of a fit for you. To find the program that best aligns with your needs, consider what is practical for your current lifestyle and which programs are most in line with your career goals.

Accreditation

Accreditation is a quality review process for nursing programs. CCNE states that it aims to promote the quality and integrity of the programs it accredits and to foster continuing improvement in nursing programs, and it accredits baccalaureate, graduate and residency/fellowship programs (CCNE). ACEN provides specialized accreditation for all levels of nursing education programs (ACEN). Accreditation is separate from approval by your state board of nursing, which NCSBN ties to eligibility for the NCLEX (NCSBN). Employer and program requirements vary, so verify both the accreditation status and the board approval of any program you consider. To see how the two accreditors compare, read how nursing school accreditation works.

Education Requirements

Admission requirements vary greatly depending on the school, the degree you choose to pursue and the rigor of the program. Prior education, GPA, prerequisite courses and health care experience are all requirements that programs may set for themselves, so check each program’s published admission requirements. For programs that lead to licensure, also confirm that the program is approved by your state board of nursing.

Clinical Hours Experience Requirement

Even though courses can be taken online, nursing education includes supervised clinical experience. For example, federal rules require nurse aide programs to include at least 16 hours of supervised practical training (42 CFR 483.152), and ANCC’s AGACNP certification requires at least 500 faculty-supervised clinical hours in the program (ANCC). Specific requirements vary by school, degree level and role, so ask each program how many clinical hours are required and where they can be completed.

Nursing Specialties

The nursing field is vast and offers a wide range of nursing specialties from the RN level to the doctorate level. Consider your areas of interest—such as whether you prefer to work with a specific patient population or in a particular health care setting. Be sure to research programs that offer the specializations in line with your career goals.

On-Campus vs. Online Nursing Programs

On-campus programs require students to attend in-person classes for their core nursing coursework and often the entire duration of the program, while online nursing programs allow students to take those same courses online (often through recorded lectures or even live streaming).

However, some skills can’t be learned through a screen. Programs that prepare students for patient-care roles typically include supervised hands-on clinical learning, but the amount and setting vary by program and role, so ask each school how it handles clinical requirements.

Some online programs let you set your own pace with coursework, while others follow set schedules, so ask each program how it is delivered. Online coursework may also let you take classes from a location convenient for you, although clinical requirements may need to be completed at an approved site.

Asynchronous vs. Synchronous Online Learning

Asynchronous learning refers to online learning that functions without real-time interaction. Instead, communication happens through pre-recorded lectures, email or discussion boards. Asynchronous learning can allow for more flexibility, as learning can happen even when all participants are not online at the same time and can make it easier to balance schoolwork with work and family commitments.

Synchronous e-learning, on the other hand, utilizes tools like livestreaming, video conferences and online chats to allow students to engage with content in real time. Some people prefer this form of learning as it gives them the opportunity to speak directly with professors and classmates. Essentially, it closely resembles the interactions that would happen in a face-to-face class. Programs may use elements of asynchronous and synchronous learning to deliver content, but be sure to consider your personal preference when choosing an online program.

Full Time vs. Part Time

Full-time learning usually requires students to take a certain number of classes or hours per week, while part-time students can take fewer. Part-time learning offers you the flexibility to balance home and work life but takes longer. Going full time affords you the ability to complete your degree faster but may be difficult, if not impossible, to do while also working. So, consider your work restraints when deciding between the two.

There’s a lot to think about when considering which online nursing degree program to apply to. Remember the factors listed above and refer to these common FAQs about online nursing education for more information: