Most Affordable Online Nursing Programs

Nursing is among the most in-demand jobs in the U.S., with hospitals and other health systems around the country looking to hire new nurses at the drop of a hat. With this in mind, it may be as good a time as ever to earn a degree in nursing.

There are many affordable online nursing programs that can help you become a registered nurse (RN) without breaking the bank.

And earning your bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) from an online program can also give you the flexibility to learn at your own pace and work full time during your studies.

An online nursing program trains you in patient care, evidence-based practice, and nursing leadership. Earning an online degree differs from earning an in-person degree in key ways.

You will take classes virtually during an online BSN program, but many programs do carry clinical requirements. You may be able to work with your online program provider to find appropriate clinical sites in your local area to carry out practicum requirements.

Most BSN programs are four years long and do not require prior nursing experience. But if you’re already a registered nurse, you may qualify for an RN-to-BSN program to expedite the time it will take to earn your degree. Most of these programs take 1-2 years to complete.

Most BSN programs are designed to help you pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) exam, which is a requirement for a career in nursing.

Below are some courses you can expect to take in a BSN program:

The cost of an online bachelor’s in nursing varies depending on the school and program. In general, public universities charge the lowest tuition rates. However, some private schools offer extensive tuition discounts, even for online learners.

The most affordable online bachelor’s in nursing programs cost less than $200 per credit. Thanks to in-state tuition discounts, distance learners can often find programs that cost around $120 per credit. More expensive programs can cost over $800 per credit.

No two nursing programs are exactly the same, so you’ll need to narrow down your options by assessing different factors.

Some things to keep in mind include the accreditation status of the program you’re considering, the cost of the program, and the student support that will be available to you.

Attending an accredited nursing program is imperative because you won’t be eligible for licensure if you earn a degree from an unaccredited program. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) are the two primary accrediting agencies for nursing programs.

There are numerous other accreditors for specialty fields in nursing, so your online program may be covered by another accreditor. You can check for this on the U.S. Department of Education’s Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs.

Nursing school costs can vary depending on the type of program you choose to attend. A BestColleges analysis of online bachelor’s costs found that the average net price of online learning programs is about $17,140 a year.

Programs attached to public universities, however, tend to cost less than those offered by private institutions. Generally, online programs have similar tuition costs compared to in-person programs, but they offer greater flexibility for students and eliminate commuting costs.

Nursing programs offer several enrollment options, including part-time and full-time course schedules.

Some schools offer an accelerated option, which allows you to expedite the time it takes to earn your degree. This option is typically available to students who already have a bachelor’s degree and have completed nursing prerequisites.

Furthermore, the online format prioritizes flexibility, which appeals to working RNs seeking a degree. Many programs use an asynchronous format, meaning you complete coursework on your schedule with no required meeting times. Some programs use a hybrid format, where some of your courses or clinical requirements are completed on campus.

When choosing an online program, you may benefit from a local option. Some nursing schools restrict access to RNs licensed in the state. In other cases, you can complete in-person requirements at the school.

When weighing online vs. on-campus options, consider whether choosing a nearby program adds benefits.

The best online programs support you throughout your learning. Key student services include academic advising, career counseling, and tutoring. You should also research the school’s internship, clinical, and practicum policies.

Some programs may also offer mentorship opportunities, placement programs, and alumni networking. These support services can make a big difference in your educational experience.

To help pay for your online nursing program, you can submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to qualify for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. The free application helps you pay for a bachelor’s degree at an accredited school.

Check out our FAFSA guide for more information on federal financial aid.

Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed May 13, 2024.