Nursing

Updated November 4, 2025

Accredited online Nursing programs provide flexible, high-quality education for current nurses and those preparing to enter the field. From bridge programs for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN/LVN) to advanced practice master’s degrees, online options make it possible to continue professional development while balancing work and family responsibilities.

These programs combine rigorous academics, evidence-based practice, and supervised clinical experiences designed to prepare nurses for licensure, leadership, and specialized patient care.

Why Earn a Nursing Degree Online

Nursing is one of the most in-demand professions in healthcare, and online programs expand access for working nurses who need scheduling flexibility.

Benefits of studying nursing online include:

Continue working while advancing your education.
Access CCNE- or ACEN-accredited programs trusted by employers.
Complete general coursework online with local clinical placements.
Pursue bridge options that shorten time to degree for licensed nurses.

Online Nursing programs are structured for interaction through digital labs, discussion boards, and simulation technology, allowing students to learn theory virtually while completing hands-on training in approved healthcare settings.

Common Online Nursing Pathways

Online nursing programs vary by credential level and professional experience. The most common pathways include:

LPN/LVN-to-RN Bridge Programs

Designed for Licensed Practical or Vocational Nurses seeking to earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or transition to Registered Nurse (RN) status. Programs focus on anatomy, pharmacology, and patient-centered care.

RN-to-BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing)

A popular option for current RNs with an associate degree who want to complete a bachelor’s. Coursework emphasizes leadership, research, and community health while meeting requirements for future graduate study.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Graduate-level programs preparing nurses for advanced clinical or administrative roles.
Specializations often include:

Nurse Education
Nursing Leadership or Administration
Clinical Nurse Specialist
Nurse Practitioner (Family, Adult-Gerontology, or Psychiatric)

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

A terminal professional degree focusing on evidence-based practice, healthcare policy, and clinical innovation. DNP programs are geared toward leadership and advanced practice roles.

Accreditation and Program Standards

Accreditation is critical in nursing education. Always choose a program recognized by one of the two primary national accrediting agencies:

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE): Accredits bachelor’s, master’s, and DNP programs.
Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN): Accredits diploma, associate, bachelor’s, and graduate nursing programs.

Both ensure academic quality, clinical competency, and eligibility for licensure or graduate study.
Students should confirm that their chosen school holds both institutional and programmatic accreditation recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Licensure and State Regulations

Nursing licensure is regulated at the state level. Before enrolling, verify that your program meets your state’s board of nursing requirements.

Key considerations:

States differ on whether online clinicals or out-of-state enrollments are permitted.
Some programs participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing multi-state practice privileges.
Graduates pursuing RN or APRN credentials must pass the NCLEX-RN or national certification exams for their specialty.
Pre-licensure students must complete a minimum number of supervised clinical hours at approved facilities.

Schools typically assist students in identifying local clinical placements that meet board standards.

Curriculum Overview

Online Nursing programs balance general education, nursing science, and applied clinical practice.
Typical coursework includes:

Anatomy and Physiology
Microbiology and Pathophysiology
Pharmacology
Health Assessment and Diagnostics
Nursing Leadership and Ethics
Evidence-Based Practice
Population and Community Health
Nursing Informatics and Technology Integration

Graduate students often complete research projects or practicums related to clinical or administrative leadership.

Clinical and Practicum Requirements

Although didactic coursework can be completed online, nursing remains a hands-on profession. Most programs include required clinical components such as:

Supervised rotations in hospitals, clinics, or community health organizations.
Simulation labs using digital or hybrid equipment.
Capstone or practicum projects addressing real-world patient care scenarios.

Students work closely with faculty and clinical preceptors to demonstrate competency in essential nursing skills.

Skills Developed in Nursing Programs

Graduates from accredited nursing programs build advanced competencies that improve patient outcomes and support career mobility.

Critical thinking and clinical judgment.
Evidence-based care and data interpretation.
Patient education and advocacy.
Team coordination and leadership.
Communication across multidisciplinary teams.
Cultural competence and ethical decision-making.

These skills prepare nurses for evolving roles in preventive care, community health, and complex patient management.

Career Progression in Nursing

Nursing degrees open multiple career pathways depending on education level and specialization.

Examples include:

Registered Nurse (RN)
Nurse Educator or Clinical Instructor
Nurse Manager or Administrator
Public Health or Community Health Nurse
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)
Nurse Practitioner (NP) or Clinical Nurse Specialist

Continuing education remains essential for maintaining licensure and adapting to ongoing changes in healthcare technology and standards of care.