Search programs
x
Compare Nursing Programs

Most schools have rolling admissions and financial help so you can start your degree in a few weeks!

Compare Nursing Programs

Most schools have rolling admissions and financial help so you can start your degree in a few weeks!

For students seeking a flexible and accessible way to earn their nursing degree, researching the best accelerated online nursing degree programs is an excellent place to start. Graduates with a BSN can pursue careers as registered nurses, with a median salary of $86,070. Those completing an MSN have additional career opportunities, such as nurse practitioners with a median salary of $129,480 or nurse administrators with a median salary of $110,680.

By enrolling in an accelerated program, you’ll be on a fast track to these careers, with BSN programs often completed in just 12 to 18 months and MSN programs in 18 months to two years.

Why Trust Us

The Intelligent.com Higher Education Team is dedicated to providing students with independent, equitable school and program rankings and well-researched resources. Our expert-driven articles cover topics related to online colleges and programs, paying for school, and career outlooks. We use data from the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard, the National Center for Education Statistics, and other reputable educational and professional organizations. Our academic advisory team reviews content and verifies accuracy throughout the year for the most current information. Partnerships do not influence rankings or editorial decisions.

  • Analyzed over 2,000 national, accredited, and nonprofit colleges and universities
  • 800+ rankings pages are reviewed and updated yearly
  • Content is informed by reputable sources, surveys, and interviews with academic advisors and other experts
  • Over 100 data points are reviewed for accuracy and quality throughout the year, including sources

How we rank schools

Our list features the best Accelerated Online Nursing degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.

We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:

Academic Quality:

  • Admission rate versus enrollment rate
  • Retention rate of students who return after year one
  • Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
  • Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions

Graduation Rate

  • Overall graduation rate
  • Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
  • Student-to-faculty ratio

Cost and ROI

  • In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
  • Required credits to graduate
  • Earning potential after graduation
  • Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options

Student Resources

  • Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
  • On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries

Read more about our ranking methodology.

Best 23 Accredited Accelerated Online Nursing Programs

Filters
Filters:
23 Results
Clear Filters
Sort by: Intelligent Score
#1
Atlanta, GA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Emory University

Intelligent Score: 99.44
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $53,070

Out-of-state: $53,070

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $43,800

Out-of-state: $43,800

Test scores

SAT: 1380-1530

ACT: 31-34

Retention Rate
93%
Admission Rate
19%
On-campus students
13%
Graduation Rate
90%
Students enrolled
14,000
Student to faculty ratio
9:01
Average Salary
$66k
Average Student Debt
$17k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$1,706

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online, On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

48

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 404-727-7980

#2
Peoria, IL | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Methodist College

Intelligent Score: 98.9
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $46,274

Out-of-state: $46,274

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $49,826

Out-of-state: $49,826

Test scores

SAT: 980 or higher

ACT: 19 or higher

Retention Rate
100%
Admission Rate
33%
On-campus students
94%
Graduation Rate
44%
Students enrolled
514
Student to faculty ratio
6-to-1
Average Salary
60,435
Average Student Debt
13,222

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$677

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online

ACCREDITATION

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 309-672-5513

#3
Kent, OH | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Kent State University

Intelligent Score: 98.67
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $10,810

Out-of-state: $19,686

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $11,766

Out-of-state: $11,766

Test scores

SAT: 1020-1210

ACT: 20-26

Retention Rate
82%
Admission Rate
84%
On-campus students
41%
Graduation Rate
65%
Students enrolled
27,000
Student to faculty ratio
21:01
Average Salary
$34k
Average Student Debt
$25k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$500

DELIVERY FORMAT

Hybrid

ACCREDITATION

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120-122

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 330-672-7930

#4
Indianapolis, IN | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Marian University

Intelligent Score: 98.46
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $36,000

Out-of-state: $36,000

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $19,720

Out-of-state: $19,720

Test scores

SAT: N/A

ACT: N/A

Retention Rate
84%
Admission Rate
64%
On-campus students
13%
Graduation Rate
60%
Students enrolled
4,000
Student to faculty ratio
13:01
Average Salary
$41k
Average Student Debt
$26k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$925

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online, On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 317-955-6000

#5
Boston, MA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Northeastern University

Intelligent Score: 97.38
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $54,360

Out-of-state: $54,360

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $25,264

Out-of-state: $25,264

Test scores

SAT: 1410-1540

ACT: 33-35

Retention Rate
97%
Admission Rate
20%
On-campus students
52%
Graduation Rate
90%
Students enrolled
23,000
Student to faculty ratio
14:01
Average Salary
$58k
Average Student Debt
$25k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$1,263

DELIVERY FORMAT

Hybrid

ACCREDITATION

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

67-71

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 617-373-2200

#6
Trenton, NJ | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Thomas Edison State University

Intelligent Score: 97.1
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $14,742

Out-of-state: $16,926

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $22,623

Out-of-state: $22,623

Test scores

SAT: Not Required

ACT: Not Required

Retention Rate
22%
Admission Rate
100%
On-campus students
1%
Graduation Rate
39%
Students enrolled
8,615
Student to faculty ratio
15-to-1
Average Salary
69,331
Average Student Debt
12,500

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$311

DELIVERY FORMAT

Hybrid

ACCREDITATION

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

60

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 609-777-5680

#7
Henderson, NV | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Roseman University of Health Sciences

Intelligent Score: 96.16
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $92,705

Out-of-state: NA

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $35,300

Out-of-state: $35,300

Test scores

SAT: NA

ACT: NA

Retention Rate
N/A
Admission Rate
N/A
On-campus students
100%
Graduation Rate
90%
Students enrolled
1,500
Student to faculty ratio
6-to-1
Average Salary
35,594
Average Student Debt
$25k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$1,261

DELIVERY FORMAT

Hybrid, On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

49

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 702-990-4433

#8
Austin, TX | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

The University of Texas at Arlington

Intelligent Score: 94.79
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $11,448

Out-of-state: $40,032

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $12,028

Out-of-state: $12,028

Test scores

SAT: 1210-1470

ACT: 26-33

Retention Rate
97%
Admission Rate
32%
On-campus students
8%
Graduation Rate
88%
Students enrolled
50,000
Student to faculty ratio
17:01
Average Salary
$52k
Average Student Debt
$20k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$425

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online

ACCREDITATION

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

51

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 817-272-6287

#9
Elmhurst, IL | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Elmhurst University

Intelligent Score: 94.08
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $38,354

Out-of-state: $38,354

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $32,000

Out-of-state: $32,000

Test scores

SAT: 980-1170

ACT: 20-26

Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
66%
On-campus students
14%
Graduation Rate
68%
Students enrolled
3,000
Student to faculty ratio
13:01
Average Salary
$43k
Average Student Debt
$21k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$833

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online

ACCREDITATION

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

60

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 630-617-3500

#10
Laramie, WY | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

University of Wyoming

Intelligent Score: 93.80
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $3,480

Out-of-state: $14,472

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $5,076

Out-of-state: $5,076

Test scores

SAT: 1040-1240

ACT: 21-28

Retention Rate
80%
Admission Rate
94%
On-campus students
7%
Graduation Rate
59%
Students enrolled
12,000
Student to faculty ratio
14:01
Average Salary
$44k
Average Student Debt
$18k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $199

Non-Resident: $359

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online, Hybrid

ACCREDITATION

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

55-58

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 307-766-4312

#11
Waco, TX | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Baylor University

Intelligent Score: 93.45
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $44,544

Out-of-state: $44,544

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $33,408

Out-of-state: $33,408

Test scores

SAT: N/A

ACT: N/A

Retention Rate
91%
Admission Rate
68%
On-campus students
8%
Graduation Rate
79%
Students enrolled
19,000
Student to faculty ratio
15:01
Average Salary
$47k
Average Student Debt
$24k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$1,098

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online, On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

62

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 888-227-5901

#12
Indianapolis, IN | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

University of Indianapolis

Intelligent Score: 92.95
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $30,888

Out-of-state: $30,888

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $38,452

Out-of-state: $38,452

Test scores

SAT: 960-1170

ACT: 18-25

Retention Rate
75%
Admission Rate
84%
On-campus students
6%
Graduation Rate
61%
Students enrolled
6,000
Student to faculty ratio
13:01
Average Salary
$38k
Average Student Debt
$26k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$980

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online, On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

56

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 317-788-3216

#13
Amherst, MA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

UMass Boston

Intelligent Score: 92.54
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $15,791

Out-of-state: $35,779

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $14,014

Out-of-state: $14,014

Test scores

SAT: 1200-1390

ACT: 27-32

Retention Rate
89%
Admission Rate
65%
On-campus students
4%
Graduation Rate
83%
Students enrolled
32,000
Student to faculty ratio
17:01
Average Salary
$44k
Average Student Debt
$23k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$600

DELIVERY FORMAT

Hybrid

ACCREDITATION

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

52

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 617-287-6100

#14
Cincinnati, OH | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Xavier University

Intelligent Score: 89.47
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $42,230

Out-of-state: $42,230

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $12,060

Out-of-state: $12,060

Test scores

SAT: 1060-1250

ACT: 22-28

Retention Rate
85%
Admission Rate
81%
On-campus students
68%
Graduation Rate
69%
Students enrolled
7,000
Student to faculty ratio
11:01
Average Salary
$45k
Average Student Debt
$25k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$900

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online

ACCREDITATION

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

63

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 513-745-3301

#15
Arlington, VA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Marymount University

Intelligent Score: 87.81
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $33,200

Out-of-state: $33,200

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $19,620

Out-of-state: $19,620

Test scores

SAT: 970-1170

ACT: 20-28

Retention Rate
71%
Admission Rate
85%
On-campus students
31%
Graduation Rate
54%
Students enrolled
3,000
Student to faculty ratio
14:01
Average Salary
$45k
Average Student Debt
$25k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$1,636

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online, On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

91-92

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 703-284-1500

#16
Kansas City, MO | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Rockhurst University

Intelligent Score: 85.3
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $38,800

Out-of-state: $38,800

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $16,200

Out-of-state: $16,200

Test scores

SAT: 1035-1225

ACT: 20-27

Retention Rate
88%
Admission Rate
73%
On-campus students
24%
Graduation Rate
73%
Students enrolled
4,000
Student to faculty ratio
14:01
Average Salary
$44k
Average Student Debt
$22k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$783

DELIVERY FORMAT

Hybrid

ACCREDITATION

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

60

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 816-501-4100

#17
Bourbonnais, IL | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Olivet Nazarene University

Intelligent Score: 84.58
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $35,960

Out-of-state: $35,960

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $13,393

Out-of-state: $13,393

Test scores

SAT: 970-1190

ACT: 19-26

Retention Rate
75%
Admission Rate
67%
On-campus students
40%
Graduation Rate
65%
Students enrolled
4,000
Student to faculty ratio
14:01
Average Salary
$39k
Average Student Debt
$25k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$785

DELIVERY FORMAT

Hybrid

ACCREDITATION

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

59

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 800-648-1463

#18
Saint Paul, MN | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

University of St. Thomas Houston

Intelligent Score: 83.52
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $46,348

Out-of-state: $46,348

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $24,589

Out-of-state: $24,589

Test scores

SAT: 1130-1340

ACT: 23-29

Retention Rate
87%
Admission Rate
87%
On-campus students
10%
Graduation Rate
80%
Students enrolled
10,000
Student to faculty ratio
14:01
Average Salary
$49k
Average Student Debt
$24k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$1,100

DELIVERY FORMAT

Hybrid

ACCREDITATION

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

58

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 855-830-2713

Load More

How to Choose an Accelerated Online Nursing Program

Choose your area of study

Since nursing is a relatively broad field, choosing an area of study can help you tailor your education more closely to your interests and career goals. For BSN students, options like pediatrics, geriatrics, and oncology cater to those enthusiastic about specific populations. MSN students can specialize in areas such as family nurse practitioner, nurse educator, or nurse administrator. These are ideal for those seeking high-level clinical roles or leadership in healthcare settings.

It’s often helpful to reflect on your strengths, alongside job market demands, to select a specialization that aligns best with your objectives and offers ample growth opportunities.

Research schools and programs

Once you have an intended specialization in mind, you can focus on researching schools and programs that’ll help you meet your career goals. Consider using the following questions to help guide your research:

  • Is the program accredited?
  • What is the program’s NCLEX pass rate or certification exam success rate?
  • Are there any prerequisites or specific admission requirements?
  • What is the format and duration of the program?
  • Are there opportunities for hands-on clinical experience?

This information can be found on school websites, by speaking with an admissions counselor, or at a virtual open house.

Prepare for tests and applications

With your shortlist of programs in hand, you can begin test and application prep. Although the admissions process may vary depending on the program, most programs follow the standard criteria:

  • Transcripts from previously attended institutions
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Personal statement or essay
  • Resume or CV
  • Relevant test scores (SAT/ACT for undergrad, GRE for grad)

Undergraduates should consider enrolling in SAT or ACT prep programs to improve their scores, while graduates should enroll in a GRE prep course if scores are required. These programs are specifically structured to produce performance-boosting results and can help give your application a competitive edge.

Select your program

When acceptance letters arrive, you may have a big decision to make. Take some time to revisit your initial research criteria and prioritize what’s most important to you, such as curriculum relevance, clinical opportunities, and faculty you’re excited to learn from. This is also an ideal time to reassess the total cost of attendance and compare it to financial aid offers – ensuring that your choice ultimately aligns best academically and financially.

Determine how you’ll pay for your degree

To finance your degree, first file the FAFSA to determine your eligibility for federal aid. Next, apply for institutional and external scholarships, as this aid doesn’t need to be repaid and can significantly offset costs. If you’re seeking part-time work, consider exploring work-study or assistantship opportunities. When loans are necessary, be sure to opt for federal loans over private loans due to their lower interest rates and flexible repayment options – as this can help you bridge any financial gaps more affordably.

What Can You Expect From an Accelerated Online Nursing Program?

By enrolling in an accelerated online nursing program, you can expect an intensive and fast-paced curriculum designed to quickly transition students into nursing roles – regardless of degree level. For those seeking a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), curricula cover foundational topics like anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, and patient care. These programs require hands-on clinical practice and can typically be completed in two to three years.

For a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), students delve into advanced practice areas like leadership, research, and specialized nursing fields like family nurse practitioner, midwifery, or anesthetics. These curricula often include courses on healthcare policy, high-level clinical skills, and evidence-based practice. Completion times for this degree usually range from 18 months to two years.

Potential courses you’ll take in an accelerated online nursing program

  • Anatomy and Physiology: This fundamental course covers the structure and function of the human body, providing essential knowledge of the body’s systems. Students will learn about the interplay between different organs and how they work together to maintain health.
  • Pharmacology: In this course, students study the principles of drug action, the therapeutic uses of different medications, and the potential side effects. Understanding pharmacology is crucial for safe medication administration and patient education.
  • Health Assessment: This upper-level course focuses on developing advanced clinical assessment skills. Participants learn to conduct comprehensive physical exams, interpret diagnostic tests, and create effective care plans for complex patient cases.
  • Nursing Leadership and Management: This course, typically offered in MSN programs, prepares students for leadership roles in healthcare settings by covering topics like organizational behavior, strategic planning, and effective communication. Students learn to manage healthcare teams, improve patient outcomes, and navigate the complexities of healthcare systems.

What Can I Do With a Nursing Degree?

With a nursing degree, you can pursue various in-demand roles that offer lucrative salaries and job security. You can work as an RN at the BSN level in hospitals and clinics. With an MSN, you can advance to roles such as nurse practitioner or nurse administrator, providing opportunities for leadership and specialized practice.

Career outlook

  • Registered Nurse — RNs provide direct patient care, administer medications, monitor patient health, and collaborate with healthcare teams to develop and implement care plans. This high-demand field offers entry-level roles for those with a BSN, providing a solid foundation for career growth.
    • Median annual salary: $86,070
    • Projected employment growth (through 2032): 6%
    • New jobs projected: 193,100
  • Nurse Practitioner — Nurse practitioners offer advanced clinical care, including diagnosing and treating illnesses, prescribing medications, and managing patient treatment plans. These opportunities become available with an MSN and often allow NPs to specialize in areas like family practice, pediatrics, or acute care.
    • Median annual salary: $129,480
    • Projected employment growth (through 2032): 38%
    • New jobs projected: 29,200
  • Nurse Administrator — Nurse administrators oversee nursing staff, manage healthcare operations, and ensure compliance with policies and regulations. These roles can be versatile and differ in scope, ranging from managing a single department to overseeing multiple facilities.
    • Median annual salary: $110,680
    • Projected employment growth (through 2032): 28%
    • New jobs projected: 54,700

Accelerated Online Nursing Degree Frequently Asked Questions

How do accelerated degree programs work?

Accelerated degree programs condense the traditional curriculum into a shorter time frame through intensive, fast-paced coursework. Both accelerated BSN and MSN programs maintain rigorous academic standards, requiring students to manage a heavier workload and often study year-round. Check out our page, which delves into this further, to learn more about the pros and cons of accelerated programs and decide if a fast-track option is best for you.

How long does it take to earn an accelerated online nursing degree?

Obtaining an accelerated online nursing degree takes 12 to 18 months for a BSN, with some programs offering options that can be completed in less than a year. Similarly, an accelerated MSN takes 18 months to two years, with some programs that can be completed in less time.

For MSN programs, completion timelines can vary significantly due to differing credit requirements — so it’s imperative to evaluate these requirements before enrolling, as this will impact your program length.

How much does an accelerated online nursing degree cost?

The average annual cost of tuition is $14,688 for undergraduate degrees and $20,513 for graduate degrees. However, it’s important to note that tuition is only one part of the cost. You’ll also want to budget for additional expenses, such as technology fees, textbooks, course materials, and potential travel costs for in-person clinicals.

Read More about Online Nursing Degrees

Compare School Options