Online Nursing Programs For Non-Nurses - RN, BSN, ADN

Are you looking to start your nursing career? Online nursing programs are a convenient way for non-nurses to enter the field quickly. Keep reading to learn more about these programs to become a registered nurse (RN).

Are There RN Programs for Non-Nurses?

Yes, there are many programs that prepare non-nurses for RN licensure. While you may have heard about RN to BSN programs online, these opportunities offer flexible options for people with no prior nursing experience to enter the field.

Types of online nursing programs for non-nurses:

• Online Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): A two-year program that teaches foundational nursing skills and prepares students to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
• Online Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (BSN): A four-year program that combines general education with comprehensive nursing coursework and clinical training.
• Online Accelerated Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (ABSN): An accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing is an intensive program for those who already hold a non-nursing bachelor's degree and want to transition into nursing quickly.
• Online direct-entry Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): A graduate-level program designed for non-nurses with a bachelor's degree in another field who wish to become registered nurses and future nurse leaders.

Online ADN Programs for Non-Nurses

An online ADN program is a flexible, entry-level pathway designed for individuals with no prior nursing experience who want to become registered nurses. These online RN programs for non-nurses typically take about two years to complete and cover basic patient care procedures.

1. Rasmussen University

Rasmussen's online ADN program blends virtual classes with hands-on clinical experiences at approved healthcare sites. Students can complete the program in as few as 21 months and are prepared to sit for the NCLEX-RN upon graduation.

• Estimated tuition cost: $453 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

2. Herzing University

Herzing University offers an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program that can be completed in 20 to 24 months. The curriculum is designed for students new to nursing and emphasizes both foundational knowledge and practical skills.

• Estimated tuition cost: $16,453 per year
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

3. Weber State University

Weber State University offers a hybrid ADN program with online coursework and in-person clinicals. At the end of their first year, students are eligible to become licensed practical nurses. And, after the remaining coursework is completed the following year, graduates are prepared to become RNs.

• Estimated tuition cost: $5,768 per year
• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

Online BSN Programs for Non-Nurses

Online BSN programs for non-nurses are designed for individuals with no prior nursing background who want to become registered nurses. These programs offer foundational science and nursing courses through online instruction, paired with hands-on clinical training under the supervision of experienced healthcare professionals.

1.Chamberlain University

Chamberlain University offers a BSN degree in nursing. Coursework can be completed 100% online, while clinical rotations are done in person. Full-time students can earn their degrees in only three years.

• Estimated tuition cost: $765 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

2. Western Governors University

Western Governors University's pre-licensure BSN is a competency-based, online bachelor's program tailored for those with no nursing background. Students complete pre-nursing theory and labs online in two terms, then proceed to complete clinical hours.

• Estimated tuition cost: $8,300 per year
• Accreditation: CCNE

3. National University

National University offers a BSN program that may be done on campus or online. It features year-round enrollment, so you can get started on your education journey at any time.

• Estimated tuition cost: $407 per credit hour
• Accreditation: CCNE

Online ABSN Programs for Non-Nurses

ABSN programs are designed for individuals who already hold a non-nursing bachelor's degree and want to become registered nurses quickly. These intensive programs can often be completed in as little as 12 to 18 months.

1. Utica University

This 16-month ABSN program offers online coursework paired with on-site labs and clinical rotations at locations in New York, Florida, or other partner sites. Designed for students with a prior non-nursing bachelor's degree, the program provides a fast and flexible path to RN licensure.

• Estimated tuition cost: $920 per credit hour
• Accreditation: CCNE

2. Elmhurst University

Elmhurst University offers a 16-month online ABSN program. Applicants must already hold a non-nursing bachelor's degree and meet prerequisite requirements to enroll in this accelerated nursing program.

• Estimated tuition cost: $50,000 total program cost
• Accreditation: CCNE

3. University of Central Oklahoma

At the University of Central Oklahoma, nursing students can earn their bachelor's degree online. The online ABSN program for those who already hold a non-nursing undergraduate degree can be finished in only 16 months.

• Estimated tuition cost: $411.45 per credit hour
• Accreditation: CCNE

Online Direct-Entry MSN Programs for Non-Nurses

Online MSN programs for non-nurses provide both foundational nursing education and advanced practice coursework. They prepare students for roles in leadership, education, or specialized clinical practice.

1. Simmons University

Simmons University offers an online Direct-Entry MSN program for non-nurses, combining rigorous online coursework with on-campus intensives and clinical placements near the student's location. Students earn their RN license partway through the program, then continue toward advanced practice preparation.

• Estimated tuition cost: $1,400 per credit hour
• Accreditation: CCNE

2. Marquette University

Marquette University offers an MSN program that features a hybrid format. The program prepares non-nurses for RN licensure and advanced generalist roles in less than two years.

• Estimated tuition cost: $67,000 total program cost
• Accreditation: CCNE

3. Caroll University

For those looking to earn a second degree in nursing, Caroll University offers an online master's degree program. Students can earn their degrees in only 20 months and enter the nursing profession. The campus features high-end simulation labs to enrich the educational experience by mimicking healthcare settings.

• Estimated tuition cost: $990 per credit hour
• Accreditation: CCNE

FAQs About Online Nursing Programs for Non-Nurses

If you're thinking about undergoing a career change to become a nurse, check out these commonly asked questions about online nursing programs for non-nurses.

Can You Become a Nurse Through an Online Program?

Yes, you can become a nurse through an online program, but clinical training is still required in person. Many schools offer hybrid formats, combining online coursework with supervised clinical experiences at approved local sites to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam and licensure.

What Is the Easiest Online Nursing Program To Get Into?

The easiest nursing program to enter is an ADN degree program. These generally require little to no prerequisite courses or admissions requirements, as it's the next step right after high school. You may even be able to become an LPN online at the end of your first year.

If you already have an ADN, check out the easiest RN to BSN online. These programs are two years or less and can lead to better job opportunities.

What Is the Average Cost of an Online Nursing Degree Program?

The cost of an online nursing degree varies widely by program and degree type. ADN degrees are typically the cheapest and may fall under $15,000. Bachelor's degrees and master's degrees are generally much more expensive, though the exact tuition rate varies by school.

While there are no inherently free online nursing programs, financial aid can significantly lower or cover your tuition costs. So, when choosing a program, you'll want to factor in available loans, grants, and scholarships.

Explore Online Nursing Degrees

Do you want to enter the field of professional nursing? Start browsing the programs on our website. When you find a school that interests you, reach out for more details.