9 Best Online Nursing Programs in Ohio

You can become part of the healthcare world in numerous ways, but one of the largest-growing professions is certified registered nursing.

The more nursing positions there are, the more ways to learn how to become a nurse are popping up � advanced programs, specialized degrees, and online nursing programs are all becoming commonplace.

If you want to learn how to become a nurse or forge ahead in your career, you should consider the nursing degree programs offered online in Ohio below.

Best Online Nursing Programs in Ohio

From RN programs and degrees for active nurses to master's programs for specialization, here are nine of the best Ohio online nursing degrees for students interested in making a career in medicine, including fully online RN to BSN programs. There are also some self-paced RN to BSN programs available to help working professionals learn while working.

1. Kent State University

Kent State University (KSU) is a public research university in Kent, Ohio, which offers bachelor's and graduate degrees through more than seven regional and international campuses in addition to offering programs online.

KSU offers an online Master of Science in Nursing with full- and part-time curriculums for working individuals.

Fully online concentrations for the program include:

• Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Women's Health Nurse Practitioner
• Nursing Administration & Health Systems Leadership and MSN/MBA Dual Degree
• Nurse Educator

2. Ohio University

Ohio University is the oldest public research university in Ohio and the first university chartered by an Act of Congress. It is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Registered nurses can work and earn their degree at the same time with Ohio University's online RN (Registered Nurse) to BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program.

There are eight different start dates for the program, classes are five weeks long, and the program can be completed in as little as one year. While the program is 120 credit hours total, only 31 credit hours are devoted to nursing courses.

3. The University of Toledo

The University of Toledo (UT) is a public research university in the University System of Ohio offering popular programs in the business, education, engineering, and healthcare industries online.

UT's online RN to BSN program is considered a self-paced Competency-Based Education program (CBE), which means it offers individualized and flexible study based on the abilities and knowledge of each student. It can be completed in as little as two semesters.

To attend this program, you have to have an active, unrestricted RN license and an associate degree from an accredited nursing or RN diploma program.

4. Ohio State University

Ohio State University (OSU) is a public research university that's part of the University System of Ohio in addition to being a member of the Association of American Universities.

At OSU, active nurses can complete a BSN on their own time through asynchronous online courses. The program requires 25 credit hours and can be completed in either 12 months as a full-time student or 15 when attending part time.

Courses include:

• Foundations and Contemporary Issues for RNs
• Evolving Concepts in Leadership and Management
• Evidence-Based Practice: Transforming Healthcare

5. The University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati (UC) is the oldest institution of higher education in Cincinnati, Ohio, and is comprised of 14 colleges � including a college of medicine that offers online programs and a teaching hospital.

UC's accelerated BSN online program takes into account the previous experience and education of active nurses to help shorten the time it takes to complete their bachelor's. Most classes in the program are only seven weeks long, and the program can be completed with 27 credits.

A minor in public health is also available for interested students.

6. Mount Carmel College of Nursing

With a history dating back to 1903, the Mount Carmel College of Nursing (MCCN) is a private college in Columbus, Ohio, dedicated to providing nursing education from bachelor's programs to doctorates on campus and online.

At MCCN, nurses with an accredited bachelor's degree in nursing and at least one year of clinical experience can pursue a Master of Science, Family Nurse Practitioner program.

Applying to this program requires submitting an application, a resume, a goal statement, a current unrestricted RN license, two recommendation letters, and official transcripts from all previous colleges.

Once accepted, the program is available fully online and takes 18 months to complete.

7. The University of Akron

The University of Akron (UA) is a STEM-focused public research university located in Akron, Ohio, and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Pursuing an RN to BSN degree online at UA is the same as it would be in person, but students have more flexibility and course customization.

The program can be completed in one year as a full-time student and has a pathway that allows you to continue seamlessly into an MSN program by taking three graduate courses during your bachelor's program.

8. Cleveland State University

Cleveland State University (CSU) is a public research university offering more than 200 academic programs through eight colleges and online.

CSU offers a Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Clinical Nurse Leadership online for students and nurses who would like to be at the forefront of health administration and management.

This program can be completed part-time entirely online in one year and seven months and fully prepares students to take the Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) certification exam.

9. Youngstown State University

Youngstown State University (YSU) is a public university consisting of six undergraduate colleges and a graduate college offering more than 200 degree programs physically and virtually.

At YSU, you can complete an RN to BSN program online in as little as 10 months while spending under $10,000. This program is ideal for working nurses who want to transform the healthcare field from the inside.

Roles for graduates of this program include:

• Nurse Manager
• Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Nurse Educator
• Public Health Nurse
• Care Coordinator
• Case Manager

Types of Nursing Programs Offered Online in Ohio

As seen from the programs above, Ohio online nursing degree programs include regular bachelor's programs, bachelor's programs for established registered nurses, master's programs � with specializations in nursing education, forensic nursing, nursing leadership, and more � and doctorate programs.

No matter where you are in your nursing education journey, you can find a program that meets your needs online in Ohio.

Read More: 6-Month RN to BSN Programs

What Are the Educational Requirements for a Nursing Degree?

There are several common educational requirements for nurses, even if there are some differences based on various factors. Students pursuing a bachelor's in nursing need a high school diploma or equivalent and must meet GPA requirements for the specific college and program they plan to enter. Pre-requisite nursing classes in science and math are sometimes required as well.

For registered nurses who want to get their Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing as part of a completion program, the above requirements must be met with the addition of a current registered nursing licensure. Some programs also require or recommend that you have an associate degree in nursing or complete a bachelor's degree in another subject.

Nurses who want to enter a graduate program need active licensure and a completed BSN with a satisfactory GPA. Different schools and programs will have different requirements for admission, so it's best to contact the college you plan to attend directly for more information.

Licensing Requirements for Nurses in Ohio

In Ohio, you need to apply for your RN license and complete the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX) pre-registration to become a nurse in the state.

The RN application includes a fingerprint background check and a 'Nursing Licensure by Examination' application � both must be completed roughly six months before you graduate from your nursing program.

Once you pass the NCLEX and your application is approved, you'll be able to get your nursing license and begin practicing in the state of Ohio.

Start Your Nursing Degree Online

Now that you've learned about the degree and licensure requirements for nurses in Ohio, as well as found out about some of the best Ohio online nursing degree programs available to you, it's time to start your nursing education journey today.

Read our articles and school profiles to learn more about these Ohio programs and some of the easiest RN to BSN programs online available nationwide.