10 Best 2-Year Nursing Programs (ASN & ADN Online) for 2025
Are you looking for the best two-year nursing programs? Learn how to become a registered nurse with flexible, accredited options designed for fast career entry.
If you're wondering how to become a registered nurse (RN) quickly, 2-year nursing programs offer an efficient pathway. These programs combine essential nursing theory with clinical practice, preparing you for licensure. Below, we'll dive deeper into some of the top nursing programs that offer quality education, hybrid learning formats, and excellent student support services.
What Is a 2-Year Nursing Program?
A two-year nursing program provides the foundational education and clinical training needed to become an RN. These programs are designed to prepare students to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) and enter the workforce in various healthcare settings. Typically, they blend classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience to develop essential nursing skills and knowledge.
Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN)
An ASN is a common type of two-year nursing degree focused on preparing students for direct patient care. It covers core nursing courses like anatomy, microbiology, pharmacology, and clinical practice, with an emphasis on science and evidence-based care. ASN programs often provide a strong foundation for further education, such as transitioning into a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
The ADN degree is another widely recognized two-year nursing credential. These programs are similar to ASN ones and prepare nursing students to take the licensure exam.
Are There Online 2-Year Nursing Degrees?
Yes, many schools offer hybrid or online options for two-year nursing degrees. Typically, theoretical coursework such as lectures and exams can be completed online, providing flexibility for students who need to balance other commitments.
However, clinical and lab components require in-person attendance at affiliated healthcare facilities or campuses to gain essential hands-on experience. Fully online nursing degrees without any in-person clinicals are not available due to licensure requirements.
Best 2-Year ASN and ADN Programs
Keep reading to learn about some of the best online nursing programs.
1. Florida Southwestern State College
The online ASN program from Florida Southwestern State College is a direct path to becoming an RN. Students can complete the program and achieve licensure quickly.
Admission is competitive, and applicants must complete prerequisites and pass the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) as part of the selection process. Once admitted, students will benefit from the hybrid online learning format, which features in-person coursework and hands-on simulations.
- Estimated tuition cost: $81.21 per credit hour
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
2. Weber State University
At Weber State University, students can pursue a two-year online ADN program. The hybrid curriculum blends classroom instruction with immersive lab simulations and clinical practice, helping students build confidence in a real-world care setting. The program is year-round and features multiple start dates throughout the year, so you can progress toward your nursing career goals quickly.
- Estimated tuition cost: $5,768 per year for in-state students
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
3. Herzing University
Herzing's ASN program prepares you to become an RN in about two years. The program can be completed at multiple locations, including online. With the latter option, lectures are delivered virtually, while clinical rotations and simulation intensives occur in-person at designated sites near you.
Students without prior healthcare experience follow the standard pre-licensure track, while LPNs, paramedics, military medics, and other professionals may qualify for accelerated bridge pathways. In addition, the school offers a rolling admissions cycle, so you can get started on your degree right away.
- Estimated tuition cost: $925 per credit hour
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
4. Western Kentucky University
Western Kentucky's ASN program is a 61-credit program designed for those who have transfer credits from a licensed practical nurse (LPN) program. All lecture-based coursework is delivered fully online, offering flexibility, while simulation labs and clinical experiences take place in person.
- Estimated tuition cost: $551 per credit hour
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
5. University of Arkansas Community College - Batesville
At the University of Arkansas Community College - Batesville, students can earn their nursing degree in two years. This 67-credit program provides students with foundational knowledge and clinical skills needed for entry-level registered nursing roles.
- Estimated tuition cost: $87 per credit hour
- Accreditation: ACEN
6. Northwest Technical College
Northwest Technical College in Bemidji, MN, offers an associate in nursing degree. Graduates of the ASN program are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN and, once licensed, can seamlessly transition into an RN-to-BSN program at Bemidji State University through an established credit-transfer agreement.
- Estimated tuition cost: $5,896 per year
- Accreditation: HLC
7. Midway University
Midway's ADN program is a streamlined, accelerated route to becoming an RN. Classroom lectures are complemented by weekly clinical rotations, immersing students in real-world healthcare settings. Completion of the ADN allows for seamless transition into Midway's RN-to-BSN program, with credits transferring directly toward a bachelor's degree.
- Estimated tuition cost: $395 per credit hour
- Accreditation: ACEN
8. Minnesota West Community and Technical College
Minnesota West Community & Technical College offers a ladder program, where students can earn their LPN license after year one and then achieve RN licensure after completing their second year. Classes are delivered through a hybrid model, with online lectures paired with on-campus labs and clinical rotations at campus locations like Worthington, Pipestone, or Granite Falls.
- Estimated tuition cost: $3,972 per semester
- Accreditation: ACEN
9. Rasmussen University
Rasmussen University offers a hybrid nursing associate degree. The program can be completed in as few as 21 months for full-time students.
Admission requirements are simple � and no prerequisite courses are required before enrollment. Thanks to the multiple start dates throughout the year, prospective students can get started on their program quickly.
- Estimated tuition cost: $453 per credit hour
- Accreditation: ACEN
10. Northwestern Michigan College
Northwestern Michigan College offers a flexible nursing degree that leads to RN licensure. The program is fully approved by the Michigan Board of Nursing, ensuring both academic quality and professional credibility.
The program is available in a hybrid format, allowing students to complete all general education and nursing theory courses online. Clinical and lab experiences, however, are held in person at sites around Traverse City, typically two to three days per week.
- Estimated tuition cost: $131 per credit hour
- Accreditation: ACEN
How We Rank Schools
We evaluate nursing programs based on key factors that reflect quality. The criteria below help ensure our recommendations are both credible and practical for future nurses.
- Accreditation: We selected schools accredited by recognized agencies to ensure educational quality and eligibility for licensure.
- Program length: All programs on this list can be completed in two years or less so that graduates can enter the workforce quickly.
- Program reputation: The programs have a reputation for excellence and feature high NCLEX-RN pass rates, student support services, and experienced instructors.
FAQs About 2-Year Nursing Programs
If you're considering a fast-track route to becoming a registered nurse, a two-year nursing program may be the perfect option. Below, we answer common questions about this educational journey.
Is a 2-Year Nursing Degree Worth It?
Yes, a two-year nursing degree offers a quick and affordable path to becoming a registered nurse. Graduates can enter the workforce faster than those pursuing a BSN, gaining hands-on experience and earning a competitive salary while keeping educational costs relatively low.
What Are the Easiest Nursing Schools To Get Into?
Community colleges and some online nursing schools often have higher acceptance rates and fewer admissions barriers. Nursing schools with the highest acceptance rates offer quality programs that lead to licensure. For instance, schools with rolling admissions, minimal prerequisites, and no entrance exams may be more accessible, but still prepare students to sit for the NCLEX-RN licensing exam.
What Prerequisites Are Needed for a 2-Year Nursing Program?
Some schools may have educational requirements for nurses to ensure they are prepared for the rigors of the program. Most programs require a high school diploma or GED, along with basic competencies in biology, anatomy, and basic math. Some schools also ask for a minimum GPA, background check, and completion of a standardized entrance test like the TEAS.
What Does an RN Make With an ASN or ADN?
If you're looking for 2-year medical degrees that pay well, consider nursing programs. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for RNs is $93,600.
RNs with a two-year degree typically earn more than LPNs and less than RNs with a bachelor's degree. Salary is dependent on location, as high cost-of-living areas will offer more money than rural areas.
Discover ASN Programs Near You
If you want to become a nurse, explore the ADN degrees on our website. Once you find a nursing program, contact the school directly for more information.