For working adults in the United States, pursuing a nursing career while managing personal and professional responsibilities can be challenging. Fortunately, accredited online nursing programs offer the flexibility, quality education, and career preparation necessary for adult learners. These programs allow you to advance in nursing, earn higher salaries, and open doors to leadership and specialized roles—all without leaving your current job.
This comprehensive guide explores the top 7 accredited online nursing programs for working adults in the U.S., covering program features, costs, career outcomes, and application steps. By the end, you will have the information you need to make an informed choice for your nursing education.
Why Choose an Accredited Online Nursing Program for Adults?
Choosing an accredited online nursing program ensures that your education meets national quality standards and that your degree or certification is recognized by employers, hospitals, and licensing boards.
Key Benefits:
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Flexible Learning: Study on your schedule, balancing work and family commitments.
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Accredited Education: Ensures your credentials are valid for licensing and employment.
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Career Advancement: Prepares for higher-paying positions, leadership roles, or specialty areas.
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Affordable Options: Many online programs cost less than traditional on-campus degrees.
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Support Services: Access to virtual tutoring, academic advisors, and career counseling.
For working adults, these programs provide the perfect blend of quality education and practical flexibility.
How Online Nursing Programs Work for Adults
Program Types:
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RN to BSN Programs: For registered nurses who want a bachelor’s degree.
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BSN Programs: For new students seeking a bachelor’s degree in nursing.
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Master’s and MSN Programs: For RNs seeking leadership or specialized roles.
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Associate Degree Programs (ADN): Two-year degrees providing entry-level qualifications.
Typical Program Structure:
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Online Coursework: General education, nursing theory, and healthcare management.
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Clinical Rotations: Hands-on experience arranged locally for adult learners.
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Flexible Scheduling: Self-paced or term-based classes.
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Support Services: Academic advisors, online libraries, and tutoring resources.
These programs are designed to accommodate working professionals, allowing you to study while maintaining employment.
Top 7 Accredited Online Nursing Programs for Working Adults
1. Western Governors University (WGU) – Online Nursing Programs
Why it’s great:
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Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
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Competency-based learning allows adult learners to progress at their own pace.
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Offers RN to BSN and MSN programs.
Program Features:
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Flat-rate tuition per term.
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Flexible online format suitable for full-time workers.
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Career-focused coursework including leadership and nursing informatics.
Estimated Tuition: $6,500 per term
2. University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) Online Nursing
Why it’s great:
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Accredited by CCNE.
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Offers RN to BSN and online BSN programs for working adults.
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Focus on evidence-based practice and clinical leadership.
Program Features:
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100% online coursework with occasional local clinical requirements.
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Support for adult learners including advisors and virtual libraries.
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Flexible start dates throughout the year.
Estimated Tuition: $5,500–$7,500 per year
3. Johns Hopkins University – Online Nursing Programs
Why it’s great:
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CCNE-accredited.
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Prestigious institution with specialized MSN programs online.
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Designed for working RNs seeking advanced practice or leadership roles.
Program Features:
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Online courses with interactive learning modules.
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Clinical experiences arranged in your local healthcare setting.
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Leadership, informatics, and healthcare policy specialization.
Estimated Tuition: $28,000–$32,000 total program cost
4. Purdue University Global – Online Nursing Programs
Why it’s great:
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CCNE-accredited programs.
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Offers RN to BSN and MSN pathways online.
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Tailored for adult learners and working professionals.
Program Features:
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Self-paced online courses.
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Practical clinical assignments in local healthcare facilities.
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Career-focused specializations like nursing leadership or education.
Estimated Tuition: $6,500–$8,500 per year
5. University of Southern California (USC) Online Nursing Programs
Why it’s great:
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CCNE-accredited BSN and MSN programs.
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Flexible options for working adults including part-time study.
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Strong alumni network for career advancement.
Program Features:
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Online coursework combined with clinical placements locally.
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Leadership and advanced practice nursing tracks.
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Access to virtual resources, advisors, and career services.
Estimated Tuition: $30,000–$35,000 total program cost
6. Excelsior College – Online Nursing Programs
Why it’s great:
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Accredited by CCNE and recognized for adult learning.
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Offers RN to BSN and bridge programs for working professionals.
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Affordable tuition and self-paced courses.
Program Features:
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100% online theoretical coursework.
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Local clinical experiences arranged for flexibility.
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Career-focused modules for leadership and specialty nursing.
Estimated Tuition: $4,500–$7,000 per year
7. University of Cincinnati Online – Nursing Programs
Why it’s great:
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CCNE-accredited.
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Offers RN to BSN, BSN, and MSN programs online.
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Designed for working adults with flexible course schedules.
Program Features:
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Online theoretical coursework with local clinical placements.
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Focus on healthcare leadership, patient safety, and evidence-based practice.
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Adult learner support including advisors, tutoring, and virtual libraries.
Estimated Tuition: $6,000–$8,000 per year
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an Online Nursing Program
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Accreditation: Ensure CCNE or ACEN accreditation to meet licensing requirements.
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Program Type: RN to BSN, BSN, or MSN depending on career goals.
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Cost and Financial Aid: Compare tuition, fees, scholarships, and employer tuition reimbursement.
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Clinical Requirements: Verify how hands-on experience is arranged locally.
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Flexibility: Self-paced or term-based scheduling for working adults.
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Support Services: Academic advisors, tutoring, and career counseling availability.
Summary Table: Top 7 Accredited Online Nursing Programs
| College/University | Program Type | Accreditation | Estimated Tuition | Flexibility | Adult Learner Support |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| WGU | RN to BSN, MSN | CCNE | $6,500 per term | High | Yes |
| UTA | RN to BSN, BSN | CCNE | $5,500–$7,500 per year | High | Yes |
| Johns Hopkins | MSN | CCNE | $28,000–$32,000 total | High | Yes |
| Purdue Global | RN to BSN, MSN | CCNE | $6,500–$8,500 per year | High | Yes |
| USC | BSN, MSN | CCNE | $30,000–$35,000 total | High | Yes |
| Excelsior College | RN to BSN | CCNE | $4,500–$7,000 per year | High | Yes |
| University of Cincinnati | RN to BSN, MSN | CCNE | $6,000–$8,000 per year | High | Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are online nursing programs accredited?
Yes, all top programs listed are CCNE-accredited, meeting licensing and employer standards.
2. Can I work full-time while studying nursing online?
Yes, programs are designed for working adults with flexible schedules.
3. How long does it take to complete an online nursing program?
RN to BSN: 12–24 months; MSN: 18–36 months, depending on program and course load.
4. Are clinical rotations included in online programs?
Yes, clinical experiences are arranged locally for adult learners.
5. How much does an online nursing degree cost?
Costs vary from $4,500 to $35,000 depending on program type, duration, and institution.
6. Can I advance my career with an online nursing degree?
Absolutely. Online degrees prepare adults for leadership, specialty, and advanced practice roles.
7. Are scholarships available for online nursing programs?
Yes. Most institutions offer scholarships, grants, and employer tuition reimbursement.
8. Is an MSN program better than a BSN for working adults?
MSN programs provide advanced career opportunities, higher salaries, and specialized roles.
9. Do online programs require exams or practical assessments?
Yes. Exams are online or proctored, and practical assessments occur during local clinical rotations.
10. Can I transfer credits from previous nursing programs?
Yes, most programs accept transfer credits from accredited institutions.
11. Are online nursing degrees respected by employers?
Yes. Accredited online programs are widely recognized in hospitals, clinics, and healthcare organizations.
Final Thoughts: Advancing Your Nursing Career as a Working Adult
Online nursing programs provide working adults in the U.S. with the flexibility, accreditation, and support needed to advance in a competitive field. Whether pursuing an RN to BSN pathway or an advanced MSN program, these accredited options allow you to maintain employment, gain hands-on experience, and achieve long-term career growth.
Start by reviewing the programs listed in this guide, compare costs and program structure, and take the first step toward enhancing your nursing career today.