Most Affordable Online Nursing Programs of 2025
Learn about some of the most affordable online nursing programs in the U.S. and what to expect from your nursing education.
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Nursing is one of the most coveted careers right now. The U.S. has been facing a nursing shortage for a while, with a national emphasis on filling positions in rural areas.
Online programs are great for students who may not have the time or means to go in person. It allows you to take all your classes online while being able to complete clinical hours at a local healthcare facility.
We’ve ranked some of the most affordable online nursing programs. They offer 100% online classwork and learning to prepare you for the NCLEX, the nationally recognized test to become a licensed registered nurse.
Online Bachelor’s in Nursing Highlights
- Sixty percent of surveyed online nursing and healthcare students and graduates say their classes included assignments they could use to explore future career options.
- Almost every online nursing and healthcare student (95%) said earning an online degree has, had, or will have a positive return on investment.
- Most online nursing students and graduates told BestColleges that an online learning environment is the same or better than learning on campus.
Source: BestColleges
Most Affordable Online Nursing Programs of 2025
How We Rank Schools
At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.
We use datasets from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools and our methodologies. This list is from 2025. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology.
CUNY Lehman College
Bronx, NY4 yearCampus + Online
$6,930
$14,880
55%
73%
Why We Chose This School
CUNY Lehman College's online bachelor of science in nursing program is designed for registered nurses who want to earn their bachelor's degree from the comfort of their homes.
This 100% online program requires 120 credits and a minimum GPA of 2.0 for graduation. You'll take classes in human evolution, human variation, and anatomy and physiology.
Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), this program will prepare you for professional nursing practice while giving you a foundation for graduate nursing programs.
Highlights
- No GRE required
- Graduate in 12-18 months
Know Before You Apply
- Costs $305 per credit hour
- Fall and spring application deadlines
- Includes physics, statistics, and calculus classes
$11,090
$20,520
71%
15,143
Public
Yes
$6,930
$14,880
Bronx, NY4 yearCampus + Online
$6,930
$14,880
55%
73%
$11,090
$20,520
71%
15,143
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
CUNY Lehman College's online bachelor of science in nursing program is designed for registered nurses who want to earn their bachelor's degree from the comfort of their homes.
This 100% online program requires 120 credits and a minimum GPA of 2.0 for graduation. You'll take classes in human evolution, human variation, and anatomy and physiology.
Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), this program will prepare you for professional nursing practice while giving you a foundation for graduate nursing programs.
Highlights
- No GRE required
- Graduate in 12-18 months
Know Before You Apply
- Costs $305 per credit hour
- Fall and spring application deadlines
- Includes physics, statistics, and calculus classes
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$4,477
$25,694
24%
57%
Why We Chose This School
At the University of Florida, you can train to become a leader of nursing professionals. This online RN-to-BSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the Florida Board of Nursing.
While all coursework is delivered 100% online, you will be required to complete 90 clinical hours: 45 in the first semester (via virtual simulation) and 45 in the fourth semester through independent clinical experience near your community.
At UF, student support involves tutoring, academic enrichment workshops, mental health counseling, and writing support.
Highlights
- 100% online coursework
- Scholarships available
Know Before You Apply
- Costs $129 per credit hour
- Requires a minimum 2.8 GPA for admission
$10,770
$27,335
97%
54,814
Public
Yes
$4,477
$25,694
Gainesville, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$4,477
$25,694
24%
57%
$10,770
$27,335
97%
54,814
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
At the University of Florida, you can train to become a leader of nursing professionals. This online RN-to-BSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the Florida Board of Nursing.
While all coursework is delivered 100% online, you will be required to complete 90 clinical hours: 45 in the first semester (via virtual simulation) and 45 in the fourth semester through independent clinical experience near your community.
At UF, student support involves tutoring, academic enrichment workshops, mental health counseling, and writing support.
Highlights
- 100% online coursework
- Scholarships available
Know Before You Apply
- Costs $129 per credit hour
- Requires a minimum 2.8 GPA for admission
California State University-Stanislaus
Turlock, CA4 yearCampus + Online
$5,742
$17,662
97%
67%
Why We Chose This School
At California State University, Stanislaus, you'll learn how to apply real-world solutions to your current and future roles. Any nurse in the state can apply to this program.
With 100% online coursework, you can continue to work as an RN while earning your bachelor's degree.
After you graduate from this online RN-to-BSN program, you can apply for a California Public Health Nursing Certificate, which will allow you to work in community health settings.
Highlights
- Flexible program that works for students with other obligations
- Prepares you to apply for a California Public Health Nursing Certificate
Know Before You Apply
- Costs $17,250
- 90 face-to-face health practicum hours required
$7,176
$16,680
80%
9,845
Public
Yes
$5,742
$17,662
Turlock, CA4 yearCampus + Online
$5,742
$17,662
97%
67%
$7,176
$16,680
80%
9,845
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
At California State University, Stanislaus, you'll learn how to apply real-world solutions to your current and future roles. Any nurse in the state can apply to this program.
With 100% online coursework, you can continue to work as an RN while earning your bachelor's degree.
After you graduate from this online RN-to-BSN program, you can apply for a California Public Health Nursing Certificate, which will allow you to work in community health settings.
Highlights
- Flexible program that works for students with other obligations
- Prepares you to apply for a California Public Health Nursing Certificate
Know Before You Apply
- Costs $17,250
- 90 face-to-face health practicum hours required
Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$6,099
$21,665
73%
68%
Why We Chose This School
Florida Atlantic University offers three tracks for their bachelor of science in nursing program: accelerated BSN, freshman direct admit, and RN-to-BSN.
The RN-to-BSN track is reserved for those who've earned a diploma or associate degree from a nursing program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing Education (ACEN).
Classes for the RN-to-BSN track include health assessment in nursing situations, pharmacotherapeutics, general pathophysiology, and scholarship for evidence-based nursing practice.
Your coursework will be fully online. However, you'll be required to complete an in-person clinical experience in your local community.
Highlights
- Designed for working nurses
- Can transfer up to 30 credits from an associate/diploma nursing program
- Can be completed in 3-5 semesters
Know Before You Apply
- Costs $105 per credit, regardless of state residency status
- In-person practicum required
$5,467
$16,695
84%
30,849
Public
Yes
$6,099
$21,665
Boca Raton, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$6,099
$21,665
73%
68%
$5,467
$16,695
84%
30,849
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
Florida Atlantic University offers three tracks for their bachelor of science in nursing program: accelerated BSN, freshman direct admit, and RN-to-BSN.
The RN-to-BSN track is reserved for those who've earned a diploma or associate degree from a nursing program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing Education (ACEN).
Classes for the RN-to-BSN track include health assessment in nursing situations, pharmacotherapeutics, general pathophysiology, and scholarship for evidence-based nursing practice.
Your coursework will be fully online. However, you'll be required to complete an in-person clinical experience in your local community.
Highlights
- Designed for working nurses
- Can transfer up to 30 credits from an associate/diploma nursing program
- Can be completed in 3-5 semesters
Know Before You Apply
- Costs $105 per credit, regardless of state residency status
- In-person practicum required
University of Missouri-St Louis
Saint Louis, MO4 yearCampus + Online
$13,440
$33,432
57%
42%
Why We Chose This School
The University of Missouri-St. Louis offers an online RN-to-BSN degree program that trains you on the latest technology so you can deliver quality patient care.
This program is designed for registered nurses who have a nursing diploma or associate degree and are eager to advance their careers and step into nursing leadership.
You'll take leadership and management for professional nursing and ethics, values in population health, and other courses that will prepare you to work in a variety of healthcare settings.
This program is fully accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing Education (ACEN) and the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Highlights
- Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Scholarships available
Know Before You Apply
- Part-time program
- Can be completed in as little as five semesters or two years
$13,154
$32,294
68%
14,815
Public
Yes
$13,440
$33,432
Saint Louis, MO4 yearCampus + Online
$13,440
$33,432
57%
42%
$13,154
$32,294
68%
14,815
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The University of Missouri-St. Louis offers an online RN-to-BSN degree program that trains you on the latest technology so you can deliver quality patient care.
This program is designed for registered nurses who have a nursing diploma or associate degree and are eager to advance their careers and step into nursing leadership.
You'll take leadership and management for professional nursing and ethics, values in population health, and other courses that will prepare you to work in a variety of healthcare settings.
This program is fully accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing Education (ACEN) and the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Highlights
- Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Scholarships available
Know Before You Apply
- Part-time program
- Can be completed in as little as five semesters or two years
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI4 yearCampus + Online
$11,216
$37,904
43%
24%
Why We Chose This School
The University of Wisconsin-Madison's online RN-to-BSN program builds on the technical and scientific knowledge students have gained in their associate degree and nursing diploma programs.
You can complete this flexible program in 18-30 months, studying on a 14-week semester system. Classes include chronic care management, information and health technology, community health nursing, and nursing research and evidence-based practice.
At the end of your program, you'll complete a 60-hour clinical at a site of your choice.
This program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Highlights
- Accredited by CCNE
- Scholarships available
Know Before You Apply
- Takes 18-30 months to complete
- 60-hour clinical required
- Additional fees
$10,728
$24,054
95%
50,633
Public
Yes
$11,216
$37,904
Madison, WI4 yearCampus + Online
$11,216
$37,904
43%
24%
$10,728
$24,054
95%
50,633
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The University of Wisconsin-Madison's online RN-to-BSN program builds on the technical and scientific knowledge students have gained in their associate degree and nursing diploma programs.
You can complete this flexible program in 18-30 months, studying on a 14-week semester system. Classes include chronic care management, information and health technology, community health nursing, and nursing research and evidence-based practice.
At the end of your program, you'll complete a 60-hour clinical at a site of your choice.
This program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Highlights
- Accredited by CCNE
- Scholarships available
Know Before You Apply
- Takes 18-30 months to complete
- 60-hour clinical required
- Additional fees
University of Illinois Chicago
Chicago, IL4 yearCampus + Online
$11,178
$26,200
79%
72%
Why We Chose This School
The University of Illinois Chicago prepares nursing students for nursing leadership roles in evidenced-based healthcare. This RN-to-BSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and centers leadership development.
You'll take classes like concepts in professional nursing practice, nursing informatics, nursing health promotion, and leadership and management in nursing.
The University of Illinois Chicago offers technical support and library and career services for all students.
Highlights
- Scholarships available
- One-year program
Know Before You Apply
- Costs $9,990, or $330 per credit hour
- 120 credits hours required
$11,870
$24,738
78%
33,522
Public
Yes
$11,178
$26,200
Chicago, IL4 yearCampus + Online
$11,178
$26,200
79%
72%
$11,870
$24,738
78%
33,522
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The University of Illinois Chicago prepares nursing students for nursing leadership roles in evidenced-based healthcare. This RN-to-BSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and centers leadership development.
You'll take classes like concepts in professional nursing practice, nursing informatics, nursing health promotion, and leadership and management in nursing.
The University of Illinois Chicago offers technical support and library and career services for all students.
Highlights
- Scholarships available
- One-year program
Know Before You Apply
- Costs $9,990, or $330 per credit hour
- 120 credits hours required
University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
Oshkosh, WI4 yearCampus + Online
$6,422
$13,995
89%
36%
Why We Chose This School
The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh offers a 12-month hybrid nursing program for those with a non-nursing bachelor's degree who want a BSN.
Founded in 2003, this accelerated program only takes 12 months to complete. You'll take your courses completely online, and you'll complete your clinical rotations in your home community.
You'll also go to campus for a two-week residency that involves labs and clinical experiences. This program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and has an attrition rate of less than 1%. The program's NCLEX pass rates outdo the national average.
Highlights
- High NCLEX pass rates
- Start dates in February, May, and October
Know Before You Apply
- Costs $48,224
- Not a self-paced or self-directed program
- Must attend a two-week, on-campus residency
$8,108
$17,798
68%
13,705
Public
Yes
$6,422
$13,995
Oshkosh, WI4 yearCampus + Online
$6,422
$13,995
89%
36%
$8,108
$17,798
68%
13,705
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh offers a 12-month hybrid nursing program for those with a non-nursing bachelor's degree who want a BSN.
Founded in 2003, this accelerated program only takes 12 months to complete. You'll take your courses completely online, and you'll complete your clinical rotations in your home community.
You'll also go to campus for a two-week residency that involves labs and clinical experiences. This program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and has an attrition rate of less than 1%. The program's NCLEX pass rates outdo the national average.
Highlights
- High NCLEX pass rates
- Start dates in February, May, and October
Know Before You Apply
- Costs $48,224
- Not a self-paced or self-directed program
- Must attend a two-week, on-campus residency
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, UT4 yearCampus + Online
$9,103
$31,861
87%
55%
Why We Chose This School
The University of Utah offers an online RN-to-BSN track that costs less than $9,000. As a nursing student here, you'll have the choice to complete your program in two, three, or four semesters. You can start in the spring, summer, or fall.
All coursework is delivered online. You'll complete 45 clinical hours and 68 practicum hours before finishing a quality improvement project. Classes include evidence-based practice, health promotion, global health, and physical assessment.
The University of Utah offers scholarships for undergraduates.
Highlights
- Scholarships available
- Asynchronous coursework
Know Before You Apply
- Costs $260 per credit hour
- Requires a minimum 3.0 GPA for admission
$7,353
$25,961
85%
35,262
Public
Yes
$9,103
$31,861
Salt Lake City, UT4 yearCampus + Online
$9,103
$31,861
87%
55%
$7,353
$25,961
85%
35,262
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The University of Utah offers an online RN-to-BSN track that costs less than $9,000. As a nursing student here, you'll have the choice to complete your program in two, three, or four semesters. You can start in the spring, summer, or fall.
All coursework is delivered online. You'll complete 45 clinical hours and 68 practicum hours before finishing a quality improvement project. Classes include evidence-based practice, health promotion, global health, and physical assessment.
The University of Utah offers scholarships for undergraduates.
Highlights
- Scholarships available
- Asynchronous coursework
Know Before You Apply
- Costs $260 per credit hour
- Requires a minimum 3.0 GPA for admission
Auburn University at Montgomery
Montgomery, AL4 yearCampus + Online
$8,568
$19,224
93%
61%
Why We Chose This School
The RN-to-BSN program at Auburn University at Montgomery prepares registered nurses to advance to nurse leaders in just one year. The school provides a supportive, flexible environment.
With your classmates, you'll take core courses like population-based healthcare, transformation to the professional nurse role, and pathophysiology and physical assessment for the professional nurse.
You'll also take complete practicum experiences that give you skills to advance into nurse leadership. The online format lets you continue working while you earn your bachelor's degree.
Highlights
- One-year program
- Approved by the Alabama board of nursing
Know Before You Apply
- $368 per credit for in-state students
- 30 credit hours required
- Includes In-person practicums
$7,812
$17,550
66%
5,190
Public
Yes
$8,568
$19,224
Montgomery, AL4 yearCampus + Online
$8,568
$19,224
93%
61%
$7,812
$17,550
66%
5,190
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The RN-to-BSN program at Auburn University at Montgomery prepares registered nurses to advance to nurse leaders in just one year. The school provides a supportive, flexible environment.
With your classmates, you'll take core courses like population-based healthcare, transformation to the professional nurse role, and pathophysiology and physical assessment for the professional nurse.
You'll also take complete practicum experiences that give you skills to advance into nurse leadership. The online format lets you continue working while you earn your bachelor's degree.
Highlights
- One-year program
- Approved by the Alabama board of nursing
Know Before You Apply
- $368 per credit for in-state students
- 30 credit hours required
- Includes In-person practicums
Why You Should Get a BSN
You’re interested in taking care of others, getting to know patients, and working alongside doctors and other healthcare providers.- Since there’s a nationwide shortage of nurses, you’ll likely have an easier time finding a job than in other careers.
- You can collaborate well with others and have empathy for ailing patients.
Benefits of Getting a Bachelor’s Degree Online
- Typically, you pay less in tuition for an online degree than an on-campus one while still qualifying for financial aid.
- You’ll have the flexibility to continue working while you take classes online and take accelerated or part-time courses.
- You can study from home and have the opportunity to complete clinical skills training and rotations at a local or partnering healthcare facility affiliated with your program.
How to Choose the Best Online Bachelor’s in Nursing Program for You
The most important factors are cost, program length, salary potential, and job outlook. Many of these programs can be RN-to-BSN programs, allowing registered nurses to pursue their bachelor’s in nursing. These programs are valued by healthcare systems and open the door to further education.
How Much Does an Online BSN Cost?
Avg. Tuition & Fees
$9,561
Avg. Net Price
$6,305
Source: NCES PowerStats for Online Bachelor’s in Healthcare, 2019-2020
The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) found that the average yearly tuition and fees is over $9,500. However, this isn’t what most students pay; the average net price students paid after financial aid was closer to $6,300.
Financial aid through the FAFSA or a state financial aid website can significantly reduce how much you pay for education. If you meet a certain income threshold, you may qualify for grants and scholarships you do not have to pay back.
You can also take out loans based on how much aid you’ll receive. Once you complete the FAFSA, submit it to your college to have them give you a financial aid package to let you know how much you would pay out of pocket for your program.
Find Financial Aid for Your BSN
How Long Does It Take to Get a BSN?
Typical # of Credits
120 Credits
Typical Program Length
4 Years
On average, it will take four years to complete a bachelor of science in nursing degree. However, many degrees on this list are RN-to-BSN which take 1-3 years and focus on registered nurses who are seeking a BSN.
If you’re working while earning your bachelor’s, see if you can take it part-time, which relaxes the workload and schedule while lengthening the time you spend completing your degree.
BSN Salary and Career Outlook
Nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and registered nurses are all projected by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) to grow from 2023 to 2033.
Nurse practitioners take the most significant lead with a 46% projected growth, making it one of the fastest-growing careers in the nation. Registered nurses also made a median of $93,600 in 2024.
To get into a nursing position, you must qualify for and pass the NCLEX to get your registered nurse license. During your BSN program, you’ll gain real-world experience through clinical hours at a healthcare facility.
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Is a Bachelor’s in Nursing Worth It?
Your goals and career aspirations will determine if a BSN is the right choice for you. If you enjoy the healthcare field and want to be the bridge between patients and doctors, then this career may be for you.
A bachelor of science in nursing program will equip you with the skills and experience to begin your nursing career with confidence. For those advancing from an associate degree in nursing (ADN), a BSN can open more opportunities for career advancement and earning potential.
You may have to balance your work schedule with classes as an adult learner. Once you enter clinical training, you may have to take a partial or complete step back from work while you fulfill that requirement.
Education Beyond a BSN
Typically, master’s and doctoral degrees are valued higher by employers and can lead to higher salaries. A master’s degree continues the BSN education by providing more depth and allowing you to choose a specialization, such as midwife, anesthetist, or nurse educator.
A doctoral degree in nursing (DNP) opens your career to academia. It allows you to research in a university setting and teach cohorts of nursing students online or in person.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Bachelor’s in Nursing
Coursework, lectures, and readings can be completed online. However, nursing school requires you to complete clinical hours at a healthcare facility and may require you to take some labs in person.
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