10 AI Nursing Degrees & Certificates 2026

Artificial intelligence is changing how nurses document care, monitor patients, and make clinical decisions. From predictive analytics in electronic health records to AI-assisted charting tools, technology is increasingly woven into daily nursing practice.

If you’re exploring an AI nursing degree or certificate, you’re likely interested in leading this transformation rather than reacting to it. Online programs now allow working nurses to build AI and informatics expertise while continuing to practice in clinical or leadership roles. Keep reading to learn how many AI courses integrate healthcare principles for future or current nurses.

Are There Online AI Nursing Degrees and Certificates?

Yes, several universities now offer online degrees and graduate certificates focused on AI in nursing, nursing informatics, and healthcare analytics. These programs are designed to help registered nurses understand how artificial intelligence tools are developed, evaluated, and implemented in real care environments.

Many AI nursing programs are fully online or mostly online with limited campus visits. Depending on the credential, you may earn a graduate certificate, continuing education credits, or a master’s degree with an AI or informatics concentration.

Best AI Nursing Degrees & Certificates

The following programs stand out for their focus on nursing practice, healthcare technology, and responsible AI implementation. These options range from graduate certificates to master’s-level pathways.

1. Florida State University – MSN in AI Applications in Healthcare

Florida State University offers one of the first dedicated Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) concentrations focused on AI applications in healthcare. The program prepares nurses to lead digital transformation initiatives while maintaining patient-centered care principles.

You’ll explore how AI can improve diagnostics, streamline care coordination, and enhance decision-making. This option works well if you want a formal AI nursing degree that positions you for leadership roles.

2. University of Texas at Austin – AI in Nursing and Health Care Certificate

The University of Texas (UT) at Austin’s graduate certificate focuses on AI-powered clinical decision support and documentation tools. It addresses real challenges like nursing burnout by exploring automation and workflow optimization.

The program is designed for working nurses and emphasizes practical, applied learning. It’s a strong option if you want focused AI training without enrolling in a full master’s degree.

3. Johns Hopkins University – Empowered by AI (Nursing & Leadership)

This executive-style program is tailored for nurse managers and clinical leaders. It emphasizes creating action plans for implementing AI tools within specific hospital units.

Rather than focusing solely on technical theory, the curriculum centers on patient outcomes and bedside leadership. It’s ideal if you’re already in a supervisory role and want to guide AI adoption responsibly.

4. University of Alabama at Birmingham – Graduate Certificate in AI in Nursing

University of Alabama at Birmingham’s (UAB) fully online graduate certificate is housed within its School of Nursing. It prepares Registered Nurses (RNs) to evaluate and manage AI systems before they are introduced into clinical practice.

The program emphasizes ethical use, safety standards, and system oversight. This option is well suited for nurses who want to ensure AI tools are implemented responsibly on the floor.

5. Duke University – MSN in Health Informatics (AI Emphasis)

Duke University’s MSN pathway in health informatics includes strong AI and data analytics components. The curriculum focuses on designing and evaluating predictive systems used in electronic health records.

You’ll gain exposure to the backend systems that power modern clinical decision support tools. This program works well if you want to transition into informatics leadership or systems design roles.

6. Walden University – Advanced AI for Nursing Professionals

Walden’s professional development certificate focuses on practical AI tools for everyday nursing tasks. It includes training in generative AI applications for documentation and patient education materials.

The self-paced format and American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) contact hours make it accessible for working nurses. It’s a good option if you want immediate, applicable skills rather than a graduate credential.

7. Bryant University – Graduate Certificate in Health Informatics and AI

Bryant University’s graduate certificate bridges healthcare and applied artificial intelligence. It can be completed in under a year and may transfer into a full master’s degree.

The program is designed for professionals pivoting into health technology roles. It’s a flexible pathway if you’re considering long-term academic advancement.

8. University of North Carolina at Charlotte – Graduate Certificate in Applied Nursing Informatics

The University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNC Charlotte) certificate focuses on nursing data systems and analytics. It prepares RNs to use AI-driven tools for quality improvement and benchmarking.

You’ll examine how structured nursing data supports predictive modeling and clinical reporting. This option works well if you’re interested in performance improvement within healthcare systems.

9. Columbia University School of Nursing – AI Literacy and Research Modules

Columbia integrates AI literacy into its advanced nursing education programs. Its human-centered approach emphasizes reducing bias in patient records and improving equity in care.

These modules are particularly strong in research and ethical considerations. They are a good fit if you’re interested in doctoral study or academic nursing leadership.

10. Ohio University – Online Clinical Informatics Certificate

Ohio University’s certificate focuses on how clinicians store, retrieve, and analyze health data using intelligent systems. The program can also serve as a stepping stone into a master’s degree.

You’ll learn how informatics tools help prevent medical errors and improve patient safety. This certificate is a practical option for nurses moving into technology-supported care roles.

How We Rank Courses

We rank AI nursing degrees and certificates based on relevance to nursing practice, accessibility, and academic quality. Our goal is to highlight programs that prepare nurses to responsibly integrate AI into patient care.

• Affordability: Programs are evaluated based on tuition, flexibility, and overall return on investment.
• Online availability: We prioritize fully online or mostly online programs designed for working nurses.
• Course provider reputation: Institutions are assessed based on nursing accreditation, healthcare partnerships, and academic credibility.

What You’ll Learn in an Online AI Nursing Program

AI nursing programs focus on applying artificial intelligence within clinical workflows and patient care environments. You’ll explore both the technical foundations of AI tools and their real-world impact on nursing practice.

Common topics and skills include:

• clinical decision support systems
• predictive analytics in electronic health records
• AI-assisted documentation
• ethical and responsible AI implementation
• nursing informatics and data governance

How Much Do AI Nursing Degrees and Certificates Cost?

Costs vary depending on the credential. Professional development certificates may cost a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, while graduate certificates typically range from $3,000 to $12,000.

Full master’s degrees, including AI-focused MSN pathways, may cost significantly more depending on credit hours and residency requirements. Many nurses begin with a certificate before committing to a longer academic program.

Who Should Consider AI Nursing Degrees and Certificates?

These programs are ideal for registered nurses interested in informatics, leadership, or healthcare innovation. They are especially useful for nurses involved in EHR systems, quality improvement, or administrative roles.

If you want to shape how AI tools are implemented in your hospital rather than simply use them, an AI nursing credential can help position you for that responsibility. These programs also support career transitions into nursing informatics and healthcare technology.

Career Outlook With an AI Nursing Degree or Certificate

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses earn a median annual salary of $93,600, with employment projected to grow 5%, which is faster than average. Demand for nurses remains strong as healthcare systems expand and patient care becomes more complex.

Nurses with training in informatics and artificial intelligence may be especially well positioned for leadership and specialized roles. AI nursing degrees and certificates can help nurses move into positions focused on clinical systems, quality improvement, and technology-driven care delivery.

How to Choose the Right AI Nursing Degree or Certificate Online

Start by identifying whether your goal is bedside application, informatics leadership, or academic advancement. A graduate certificate may be sufficient for skill development, while a master’s degree may be necessary for senior roles.

You should also evaluate program flexibility, accreditation, and alignment with your current license and credentials. Choosing a program grounded in nursing practice ensures your AI training remains patient-centered.

FAQs About AI Nursing Degrees and Certificate Programs

The following FAQs address common considerations when comparing AI nursing education options. These answers focus on preparation, professional impact, and program structure.

Is an AI Nursing Degree Worth It?

An AI nursing degree can be worthwhile if you want to lead technology integration in healthcare settings. These programs prepare you to evaluate and manage AI tools responsibly. They are especially valuable for nurses pursuing informatics or administrative roles.

Can an AI Nursing Certificate Help With Career Advancement?

AI nursing certificates can support advancement into informatics, leadership, or systems roles. They demonstrate specialized expertise in a rapidly evolving area. Many employers value nurses who understand both patient care and healthcare technology.

Do I Need Coding Experience for AI Nursing Programs?

Most AI nursing programs do not require advanced coding skills. Many focus on evaluating and implementing AI tools rather than building algorithms from scratch. Reviewing prerequisites can help clarify expectations.

How Long Do AI Nursing Programs Take to Complete?

Certificates may take a few months to a year depending on credit requirements. Master’s degrees typically take one to two years for full-time students. Part-time options are common for working nurses.

Are AI Nursing Credentials Recognized by Employers?

Credentials from accredited nursing schools and reputable universities are widely respected. While relatively new, AI-focused nursing programs are gaining recognition as healthcare digitization expands. Employer demand for informatics-trained nurses continues to grow.

Discover AI Nursing Degrees and Certificate Programs

Learn.org helps you explore AI nursing degree and certificate programs from trusted schools and providers. You can compare options, request information, and connect with programs aligned with your clinical and leadership goals.