35 Best (1-Year) Nursing Online Programs

WHAT ARE THE BEST (1-YEAR) LPN/LVN-TO-RN ONLINE NURSING PROGRAMS IN THE NATION?

(Based on our Ranking Methodology, the following are the 8 best 1-year LPN/LVN-to-RN online nursing programs. These programs are for students with an LPN/LVN degree. You can complete these programs in 12 months or less.)

1. Texas State Technical College - Harlingen, TX

Program Length: 12 Months

Program Details: To advance your technical skills in nursing, Texas State Technical College offers one of the best 1-year nursing programs online. The program builds on your LVN experience and education and seamlessly prepares you for the transition as a registered nurse. The program is offered in a hybrid format with classes offered mostly during the day. Some of the classes you attend include health assessment, pharmacology, mental health nursing, professional nursing, and nursing leadership & management. The fast-paced program prepares you for the NCLEX-RN exam and a career as a registered nurse.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: Because Texas State Technical College’s LVN-to-RN program is offered in an accelerated format, you can complete the program within just 12 months. Alternatively, there is also a part-time schedule that takes 20 months to complete.

Why Choose Texas State Technical College Online Nursing Program

• Texas State Technical College’s 1-year online nursing program emphasizes hands-on training and provides students with ample clinical training in its simulation lab.
• Texas State Technical College maintains partnerships with industry leaders to offer students a wide variety of clinical experiences.

2. Howard College - Big Spring, TX

Program Length: 12 Months

Program Details: Howard College’s 1-year nursing online program is designed for LVNs who are ready to take the next step in their nursing careers. The program quickly takes you from an LVN to a skilled registered nurse. With a high pass rate on the NCLEX-RN exam, Howard’s ADN also reports a promising placement rate of its ADN graduates. The LVN-to-ADN path comprises a total of 60 credits, students may require fewer credits because of some of the prerequisite courses already completed by them.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: For licensed vocational nurses who are entering Howard’s LVN-to-RN program, you can graduate within just 12 months of full-time study.

Why Choose Howard College Online Nursing Program

• Howard College has more than fifty years of experience in training professional nurses who are committed to serving the state’s health needs.
• Howard College offers excellent clinical rotations. This is because the college has affiliate agreements with leading hospitals and clinics in the Big Srong and San Angelo areas.

3. Joliet Junior College - Joliet, IL

Program Length: 3 Semesters

Program Details: If you are seeking an RN program that supports you in advancing your career as a registered nurse, then Joliet Junior College offers a great option. Its one-year online nursing program is offered in small classes, allowing students to closely interact with faculty and peers. The program combines online didactic lectures, with lab and clinical training. The LVN-to-RN coursework fully prepares you to work in a variety of work settings, including hospitals, clinics, nursing care facilities, schools, etc.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: Joliet Junior College’s ADN bridge program prepares graduates for a registered nursing career within as little as three semesters.

Why Choose Joliet Junior College Online Nursing Program

• Joliet Junior College’s ADN program is not only counted among the best 1-year nursing online programs but is also considered one of the most affordable.
• Joliet Junior College’s LVN-to-RN program consistently reports excellent pass rates on the NCLEX-RN exam.
• Joliet Junior College’s LVN-to-RN program has agreements with several four-year nursing colleges to allow for a seamless transition into a BSN program.

4. Missouri State University-West Plains - West Plains, MO

Program Length: 1 Year

Program Details: Missouri State University prepares high-quality registered nurses by offering another one of the reputable 1-year nursing programs online. Designed for LPNs, the program comprises 65 credits and leads to the NCLEX-RN exam. Some of the topics covered in the program include nursing care across the lifespan, pharmacology, adult med-surgical nursing, and current trends in issues in registered nursing practice. The program offers a competitive admission process, taking in selective candidates who progress through it as part of a small cohort.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: Missouri State University’s LVN-to-ADN program’s accelerated pace allows you to become a registered nurse within just one year of full-time study.

Why Choose Missouri State University-West Plains Online Nursing Program

• Missouri State University offers students a personalized and close-knit environment where they feel supported from the start to up until they graduate.
• Missouri State University’s online learning format allows students to take didactic classes from anywhere and anytime. In addition, students complete clinicals at an approved healthcare facility that is close to where they live.

5. Arkansas State University - Jonesboro, AR

Program Length: 3 Semesters

Program Details: For LPNs who wish to obtain their associate degree in nursing, Arkansas State University offers one of the well-designed 1-year nursing online programs. The program offers excellent didactic training through the online format and provides students with hands-on clinical training in the lab and at a healthcare facility. The program covers several topics such as med-surgical nursing, mental health nursing, maternal child nursing, and trends and issues in professional nursing. Upon completion of the program, you’ll be fully prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: Arkansas State University’s LPN-to-RN program is offered in a fast-paced format and therefore hardly takes three semesters to complete.

Why Choose Arkansas State University Online Nursing Program

• Arkansas State University offers courses in a seven-week format, allowing students to focus on one course at a time. In addition, if desired, students can even opt for a brief break in between courses.
• Arkansas State University offers excellent clinical training at a variety of clinical sites that are within your geographical location.

6. Labouré College of Healthcare - Milton, MA

Program Length: 1 Year

Program Details: At Labouré College of Healthcare, you can transition into the role of a registered nurse within the blink of an eye. A well-rounded education, integrating the art and science of nursing, here, you’ll be fully prepared to explore career opportunities in diverse healthcare environments. The LVN-to-RN emphasizes core nursing competencies such as clinical judgment, healthcare informatics, interdisciplinary collaboration, and leadership & management.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: Labouré College of Healthcare’s accelerated LVN-to-RN program can be completed within just one year. There is also a part-time option that offers a less demanding pace, allowing students to graduate within two years.

Why Choose Labouré College of Healthcare Online Nursing Program

• Labouré College of Healthcare’s LPN-to-RN students are provided excellent clinical training at its state-of-the-art simulation lab. The lab replicates a real-world clinical setting and allows students to hone skills in critical thinking and clinical reasoning.
• Labouré College of Healthcare’s one-year nursing online program partners with healthcare facilities in the Greater Boston area to provide students with a wide range of clinical experiences.
• Labouré College of Healthcare has more than 125 years of nursing education.

7. Catawba Valley Community College - Hickory, NC

Program Length: 9 Months

Program Details: Catawba Valley Community College’s LPN-to-RN bridge program is one of the shortest routes to a career in registered nursing. The program offers hybrid courses that combine online courses with well-curated clinical experiences. The program offers a rigorous curriculum and accepts only highly motivated students. To transition to the role of a registered nurse, the program trains you in topics such as mental health nursing, med-surgical nursing, and professional nursing. Upon completion of the program, you’ll be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: The fast-paced LPN-to-ADN program at Catawba Valley Community College can be completed within just nine months. Students attend classes in the afternoons and evenings and complete the intensive coursework within the stipulated time frame.

Why Choose Catawba Valley Community College Online Nursing Program

• Catawba Valley Community College’s agreements with four-year colleges allow graduates to seamlessly transition into a BSN program.
• Catawba Valley Community College’s 9-month online nursing program encourages students to apply for financial aid and scholarship opportunities.

8. Cape Fear Community College - Wilmington, NC

Program Length: 2 Semesters

Program Details: Cape Fear Community College offers another one of the well-known 1-year nursing online programs. The program provides LPNs an opportunity to advance their nursing careers. By combining online didactic classes with excellent clinical training, the program fully prepares graduates to work in a range of healthcare settings, including, hospitals, long-term facilities, community health agencies, and specialty clinics, to name a few. The LPN-to-RN curriculum includes courses in pharmacology, pathophysiology, mental health nursing, med-surgical nursing, and nursing leadership & management.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: Cape Fear Community College’s LPN-to-RN program can be completed within just two semesters.

Why Choose Cape Fear Community College Online Nursing Program

• Cape Fear Community College’s 1-year online nursing program maintains small-sized classes to allow personalized attention and close interaction between students and faculty.
• Cape Fear Community College’s LPN-to-RN program offers employable training that can be immediately applied to the nursing workplace.

WHAT ARE THE BEST (1-YEAR) LPN/LVN-TO-BSN ONLINE NURSING PROGRAMS IN THE NATION?

(Based on our Ranking Methodology, the following are the 3 best 1-year LPN/LVN-to-BSN online nursing programs. These programs are for students with an LPN/LVN degree. You can complete these programs in 12 months or less.)

1. The University of Oklahoma - Oklahoma City, OK

Program Length: 9 Months

Program Details: If you are an LPN who is keen on obtaining a BSN degree without wasting much time, then the University of Oklahoma offers an excellent option. One of the fastest routes to earn your BSN, the university’s LPN-to-BSN allows for a seamless transition to the BSN coursework. As such the nursing program comprises 60 credits, but because you earn 30 transfer credits, you require completing only 30 credits. The program covers topics such as health assessment, community-focused nursing, nursing research, professional nursing concepts, and leadership in nursing practice. Upon graduation, you’ll earn a BSN and be prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: Among the very few LPN-to-BSN programs that can be completed so fast, the University of Oklahoma’s nursing program can be completed within just nine months of full-time study. Alternatively, if you prefer a slightly less intensive pace, there is a part-time option that takes two years to complete.

Why Choose The University of Oklahoma Online Nursing Program

• Designed for adult learners, the University of Oklahoma’s 9-month nursing online program offers asynchronous online classes that easily accommodate the busy schedules of working nurses.
• University of Oklahoma nursing school ranks among the best in the nation as per the U.S. News & World Report.

2. Missouri Western State University - St. Joseph, MO

Program Length: 3 Semesters

Program Details: Missouri Western State University offers another one of the few online nursing programs that seamlessly allows LPNs to earn a BSN within a brief amount of time. The program is a facts-based coursework that equips you with excellent skills in critical thinking, evidenced-based knowledge, and communication. The program requires students to complete at least 30 credits in upper-division nursing courses. The coursework is comprehensive and covers several topics such as clinical nursing, holistic assessment, nutrition, pharmacology, adult health, mental health nursing, pediatric nursing, and maternal/newborn nursing.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: Missouri Western State University’s LPN-to-BSN program takes as little as three semesters to complete.

Why Choose Missouri Western State University Online Nursing Program

• Missouri Western State University’s 1-year online nursing program provides students with exceptional clinical training, first in the simulation lab and then at leading healthcare settings in St. Joseph and greater Kansas City.
• Missouri Western State University’s nursing program not only boasts of an impressive first-time pass rate on the NCLEX-RN exam but also takes pride in the promising job placement rate of its graduates.

3. Southwestern Oklahoma State University - Weatherford, OK

Program Length: 12 Months

Program Details: Southwestern Oklahoma State University offers another one of the very few 1-year online nursing programs that are designed for LPNs who want to seamlessly obtain a BSN degree. The program comprises 33 credits in core nursing courses teaching you topics such as advanced physical assessment, acute & chronic care across the lifespan, community health promotion, issues & concepts for professional practice, evidence-based practice, and nursing informatics. In addition to online didactic courses, the program also includes lab simulations and clinical rotations at a healthcare site near you.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: Southwestern Oklahoma State University’s LPN-to-BSN program offers two start dates in fall and spring. The program’s accelerated format allows you to complete it within just 12 months.

Why Choose Southwestern Oklahoma State University Online Nursing Program

• Southwestern Oklahoma State University focuses on practical training and therefore students enjoy several meaningful opportunities to practice clinical skills.
• Southwestern Oklahoma State University’s 12-month nursing online program provides individualized attention in its small-sized classes.

WHAT ARE THE BEST (1-YEAR) RN-TO-BSN ONLINE NURSING PROGRAMS IN THE NATION?

(Based on our Ranking Methodology, the following are the 5 best 1-year RN-to-BSN online nursing programs. These programs are for students with an ADN degree. You can complete these programs in 12 months or less.)

1. The Ohio State University - Columbus, OH

Program Length: 12 Months

Program Details: As a registered nurse if you are looking to enhance your nursing skills and knowledge, then applying to Ohio State University’s RN-to-BSN is an excellent idea. The RN-to-BSN program allows you to elevate your nursing career without putting it on hold. The program requires the completion of at least 30 credits in nursing core courses and an elective. The RN-to-BSN coursework mainly covers cultural competence, healthcare informatics, interprofessional collaboration, evidence-based practice, and concepts in community health nursing.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: The Ohio State University’s RN-to-BSN program can be completed within just 12 months if enrolled full-time. Alternatively, on a part-time basis, you can complete this program within 15 months.

Why Choose The Ohio State University Online Nursing Program

• Ohio State University’s baccalaureate in nursing program is ranked among the best in the nation as per the U.S News & World Report.
• Ohio State University’s 1-year online nursing program is counted as one of the more affordable options in the region. Further, the program allows students to use open resources, thereby cutting the need to buy textbooks, so you end up saving some more dollars.

2. Drexel University - Philadelphia, PA

Program Length: 12 Months

Program Details: Whether you desire to increase your earning potential or want to expand your role as a registered nurse, at Drexel University, you should be able to achieve both these goals. Drexel’s online RN-to-BSN is a fast-paced program that builds on your RN education. The program includes courses in nursing research, health assessment, transformational leadership, critical issues in nursing, population health, and issues in aging & longevity. A minimum of 30 credits must be completed to obtain your BSN degree.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: Drexel’s RN-to-BSN program can be completed within just 12 months.

Why Choose Drexel University Online Nursing Program

• Drexel University’s 1-year online nursing program is 100% online with no on-campus requirements.
• Drexel University’s RN-to-BSN program graduates are highly regarded for their excellent skills in critical thinking, leadership, decision-making, and communication.
• Drexel University’s RN-to-BSN program offers excellent support. Students will be able to access a resourceful online library, writing center, and other online learning tools.

3. The University Of Texas Health Science Center At Houston - Houston, TX

Program Length: Two Semesters

Program Details: At The University Of Texas Health Science Center in Houston, you can seamlessly earn your BSN sooner than you think. By completing just 31 credits, you’ll be better equipped to enhance patient outcomes in a variety of healthcare settings. The coursework covers key areas of professional nursing such as health assessment, health informatics, nursing research, management & leadership, and community health. Students also complete a clinical practicum at a healthcare site within their geographical location.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: The University Of Texas Health Science Center’s RN-to-BSN offers three study plans. The accelerated plan allows you to graduate within just two semesters. Whereas, for students who prefer a slower pace of study, there is a three-semester and five-semester plan to choose from.

Why Choose The University Of Texas Health Science Center At Houston Online Nursing Program

• University Of Texas Health Science Center’s BSN program ranks #1 in Texas and among the best in the nation as per the U.S. News & World Report.
• University Of Texas Health Science Center offers one of the most affordable one-year nursing online programs designed for RNs seeking a BSN degree. Further, the school offers generous funding in terms of financial and scholarship opportunities.

4. University of Central Florida - Orlando, FL

Program Length: Three Semesters

Program Details: As a registered nurse, if you want to impact healthcare delivery, then obtaining enhanced nursing skills and knowledge from the University of Central Florida is an excellent idea. The university offers a fast-paced RN-to-BSN that quickly takes you from an ADN-prepared registered nurse to a BSN-equipped registered nurse. The program comprises 30 credits and prepares you for opportunities such as nurse manager, neonatal nurse, family nurse, emergency room nurse, to name a few. The RN-to-BSN coursework mainly teaches you about nursing leadership, management, nursing research, healthcare issues, policy, and economics.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: The University of Central Florida’s RN-to-BSN program can be completed within as little as three semesters. Alternatively, for students who prefer the slower pace, there is a part-time option that takes ten semesters to complete.

Why Choose University of Central Florida Online Nursing Program

• University of Central Florida’s 1-year online nursing program is among the top BSN programs in the nation according to the U.S. News & World Report.
• University of Central Florida’s RN-to-BSN program allows students to substitute up to nine credits with graduate-level courses. Therefore, should you choose to advance to a graduate degree in nursing, you’ll be able to save time and some tuition dollars.

5. Georgia Southern University - Statesboro, GA

Program Length: Less Than 12 Months

Program Details: By enrolling in Georgia Southern University’s RN-to-BSN, you can gain enhanced skills in critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and evidence-based practice. The 29-credit curriculum covers core nursing topics such as professional nursing practice, nursing research, health assessment, complex nursing concepts, community health nursing, leadership & management, and critical analysis of nursing concepts. Graduates of this program not only expand their career avenues but also increase their earning potential.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: Georgia Southern University’s RN-to-BSN can be completed within just 12 months. Alternatively, you can choose the part-time coursework and take up to five years to complete the program.

Why Choose Georgia Southern University Online Nursing Program

• Another one of the best 1-year online nursing programs, Georgia Southern University’s RN-to-BSN is also one of the most affordable with the tuition costs being almost half of what other online programs offer.
• Georgia Southern University’s 12-month online nursing program is designed to suit the needs of working nurses. The coursework allows 24/7 access and can be taken from anywhere.

WHAT ARE THE BEST (1-YEAR) ACCELERATED BSN ONLINE NURSING PROGRAMS IN THE NATION?

(Based on our Ranking Methodology, the following are the 7 best 1-year Accelerated BSN online nursing programs. These programs are for students with a degree in a non-nursing field. You can complete these programs in 12 months or less.)

1. Emory University - Atlanta, GA

Program Length: 1 Year

Program Details: If you are seeking a new career in nursing, then Emory University offers an excellent 1-year online nursing program that fully prepares you to play the role of a registered nurse. The program builds on your non-nursing baccalaureate degree and builds your knowledge in core nursing topics. The 100% online coursework comprises 48 credits and covers topics such as health assessment, pathophysiology, pharmacology, maternity & reproductive nursing, mental health nursing, pediatric nursing, and population health. The coursework also teaches you about complex care situations and nursing leadership & partnership.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: Emory University’s nursing program allows you to graduate with a nursing degree within just one year of full-time study.

Why Choose Emory University Online Nursing Program

• Emory University’s 1-year online nursing program focuses on clinical training and requires students to complete simulated training and clinical rotations in a hospital.
• Emory University offers generous financial aid, with more than 92 percent of students receiving some sort of financial assistance.

2. Baylor University - Waco, TX

Program Length: 1 Year

Program Details: If you are looking for 1-year online nursing programs that are designed for non-nurses, then Baylor University offers an excellent option. Baylor’s ABSN is an online program, that requires only two on-campus visits. The program comprises 62 credits and also includes 720 hours of clinical practice. The coursework focuses on core nursing courses, teaching you concepts in professional development, and the healthcare management of individuals and families across the lifespan. The program also teaches you nursing leadership & management.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: Baylor’s ABSN hardly takes one year to complete.

Why Choose Baylor University Online Nursing Program

• Baylor University’s ABSN is rooted in Christian values. Graduates are prepared to serve the health needs of diverse patient populations, emphasizing the underserved and vulnerable communities. Students also complete clinical experience in underserved areas.
• Baylor University’s ABSN is taught by a world-class faculty who have won several accolades for their valuable contributions to nursing practice and research.
• Baylor University’s baccalaureate in nursing education ranks among the best in the nation as per the U.S. News & World Report.

3. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center - Lubbock TX

Program Length: 12 Months

Program Details: Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center’s 1-year nursing online program is a great opportunity for non-nurses aspiring to join the registered nursing workforce. The program offers an accelerated pathway to a fulfilling and rewarding second career as a registered nurse. The program is intensive and covers a wide range of topics such as anatomy & physiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, pediatric nursing, gynecological nursing, mental health nursing, community health nursing, and nursing research. Students also complete clinical rotations in various healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term facilities.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center’s fast-paced program can be completed within as little as 12 months. Further, students who prefer a less challenging study can opt for the part-time schedule. The duration of the part-time schedule depends on the number of courses you take each semester.

Why Choose Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Online Nursing Program

• Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center offers another one of the affordable one-year online nursing programs in Texas with competitive tuition costs.
• Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center’s ABSN students have impressive pass rates on the NCLEX-RN exam.

4. Mercer University - Atlanta, GA

Program Length: 12 Months

Program Details: For non-nursing professionals who are passionate about patient care, Mercer University offers one of the two 12-month nursing online programs in GA that is typically designed for career changers. The program offers flexible online coursework that can be completed from anywhere. Mercer’s second-degree ABSN is a 56-credit curriculum that prepares you to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program covers topics such as health assessment, mental health nursing, population health, adult nursing, pharmacology, and evidence-based nursing.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: Mercer University’s ABSN can be completed within just 12 months. Also, with three start dates in summer, spring, and fall, you can start the program as soon as you are ready.

Why Choose Mercer University Online Nursing Program

• Mercer University’s ABSN program offers excellent clinical training at its state-of-the-art simulation labs in Atlanta.
• Mercer University’s ABSN graduates are sought-after by employees across the state as well as in the nation.

5. University of Wisconsin Oshkosh - Oshkosh, WI

Program Length: 12 Months

Program Details: Whether you want to make a difference in the lives of people or you simply desire a career shift to nursing, the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh offers one of the best one-year nursing programs online to help you achieve your goals. The nursing program is offered in an accelerated format and leads to the BSN degree and the NCLEX-RN exam. The accelerated BSN comprises 52 credits and requires completing online didactic courses, two weeks of an on-campus residency, and six clinical rotations. The nursing theory courses cover topics such as health assessment, pathophysiology, evidence-based practice, legal & ethical, and leadership & management.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh’s online nursing program takes just 12 months to complete.

Why Choose University of Wisconsin Oshkosh Online Nursing Program

• University of Wisconsin Oshkosh’s ABSN is one of the first accelerated nursing programs in the nation.
• University of Wisconsin Oshkosh’s ABSN program boasts excellent pass rates on the NCLEX-RN exam.

6. University of Massachusetts-Boston - Boston, MA

Program Length: 1 Year

Program Details: Another one of the well-known 1-year nursing programs online, the University of Massachusetts Boston's ABSN utilizes your non-nursing bachelor's degree to fully prepare you to join the registered nursing workforce. Within hardly any time, the accelerated BSN coursework teaches you about topics such as pathophysiology, pharmacology, health promotion, evidence-based nursing practice, concepts of health & illnesses, professional nursing concepts, and active & engaged nursing concepts. The program comprises at least 30 credits in online didactic courses, clinical simulation, and clinical experiences.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: Being a fast-paced program, the University of Massachusetts-Boston’s ABSN can be completed within just 12 months.

Why Choose University of Massachusetts-Boston Online Nursing Program

• At the University of Massachusetts, the 1-year nursing online program is taught by the same faculty that teaches on-campus.
• The University of Massachusetts offers one of the lowest tuition rates in the state.
• The University of Massachusetts accelerated BSN program reports a 100% placement rate.

7. Wilkes University - Wilkes-Barre, PA

Program Length: 12 Months

Program Details: For aspiring nurses who have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, Wilkes University provides you with the support and clinical training to help you become a registered nurse. With one of the fastest options for career changers, its 1-year nursing online program builds on your previous undergraduate degree and equips you with the skills and knowledge in core nursing subjects. The program helps you develop excellent skills in critical thinking, evidence-based practice, and leadership. Graduates are prepared to offer holistic nursing care for urban, rural, and underserved patient populations.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: Wilkes University’s nursing program for non-nurses takes just 12 months to complete. While the 12-month coursework is offered full-time, there is also a part-time option that can be completed within 24 months.

Why Choose Wilkes University Online Nursing Program

• Wilkes University has more than 40 years of experience in training competent nursing professionals who are working at some of the leading healthcare facilities.
• Wilkes University offers financial aid and scholarship opportunities for qualifying ABSN students.
• Wilkes University consistently ranks among the best universities in the nation as per the U.S. News & World Report.

WHAT ARE THE BEST (1-YEAR) BSN-TO-MSN ONLINE NURSING PROGRAMS FOR NURSES IN THE NATION?

(Based on our Ranking Methodology, the following are the 8 best 1-year BSN-to-MSN online nursing programs. These programs are for students with a BSN degree. You can complete these programs in 12 months or less.)

1. University of South Carolina - Columbia, SC

Specialties Offered: Healthcare Leadership

Program Length: 12 Months

Program Details: For registered nurses with a BSN who want to take the next step in their nursing careers, the University of South Carolina’s 1-year nursing online program is a great option. The university prepares graduates for leadership roles in healthcare environments. The program confers an MSN and prepares graduates for the nursing leadership national certification exam. By completing a 30-credit curriculum, students gain a strong foundation in leadership & management principles.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: The University of South Carolina’s BSN-to-MSN offers part-time and full-time options. While the full-time option can be completed within just 12 months, the part-time program allows a slower pace, taking 18 months to complete.

Why Choose University of South Carolina Online Nursing Program

• University of South Carolina’s online graduate nursing programs are ranked among the best in the nation as per the U.S. News & World Report.
• The University of South Carolina is one of the top recipients of funding from the NIH.

2. University of North Carolina-Wilmington - Wilmington, NC

Specialties Offered: Nurse Educator

Program Length: 12 Months

Program Details: If you are interested in teaching, then at the University of North Carolina-Wilmington you can obtain the training to become a nurse educator within hardly any time. By offering one of the best one-year nursing online programs, the university produces highly skilled graduate nurses who are prepared to influence the future nursing workforce. The MSN in nursing education is a 36-credit coursework that focuses on foundations & evidence-based practices for nursing education. In addition to didactic courses, the program also includes a 168-hour clinical practicum.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: At the University of North Carolina-Wilmington, you can complete your BSN-to-MSN within as little as 12 months.

Why Choose University of North Carolina-Wilmington Online Nursing Program

• University of North Carolina-Wilmington is designed for working professionals and therefore offers 100% online coursework with no campus visits whatsoever.
• University of North Carolina Wilmington's graduate nursing programs are ranked among the best in the nation as per the U.S. News & World Report.

3. University of Nevada, Las Vegas - Las Vegas, NV

Specialties Offered: Nursing Education

Program Length: 12 Months

Program Details: University of Nevada, Las Vegas’s 1-year nursing online program is meant for registered nurses who want to play non-clinical roles in nursing. The program builds on your BSN education and experience and equips you with skills in nurse education. The program offers a 33-credit coursework that hardly takes any time to complete. The MSN in nursing education focuses on topics such as teaching & learning in nursing education, course-level evaluation strategies, and developing & developing curriculum.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: You should be able to complete the University of Nevada’s BSN-to-MSN program within as little as 12 months.

Why Choose University of Nevada, Las Vegas Online Nursing Program

• University of Nevada, Las Vegas’s 1-year nursing online program offers students with excellent placements within a student’s home community.
• University of Nevada’s BSN-to-MSN program graduates find desirable placements soon after graduation.

4. Texas A&M International University - Laredo, TX

Specialties Offered: Nursing Administration

Program Length: 10 Months

Program Details: Among the well-known 12-month online nursing programs, Texas A&M International University’s BSN-to-MSN program prepares highly skilled nurse administrators who play impactful leadership roles in various areas of healthcare. The accelerated format of the program offers a quick pathway that empowers registered nurses with skills in critical thinking, communication, and leadership. The program comprises 31 credits and teaches concepts in healthcare policy & social justice, research methods & statistical analysis, transformational leadership, healthcare informatics, population health, and healthcare informatics. The program also includes a 180-hour clinical practicum in nursing leadership.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: Texas A&M International University’s MSN in nursing administration takes just 10 months. The program offers one of the fastest routes to a graduate degree in nursing.

Why Choose Texas A&M International University Online Nursing Program

• Texas A&M International University’s 10-month online nursing program is one of the more affordable options in the region.
• Texas A&M International University’s BSN-to-MSN program offers 100% asynchronous online classes to allow working professionals to continue working while pursuing their graduate nursing education.

5. Weber State University - Ogden, UT

Specialties Offered: Nurse Educator and Nursing Leadership & Management

Program Length: Nurse Educator (12 Months) and Nursing Leadership & Management (12 Months)

Program Details: Whether you want to advance to faculty positions or aspire to become a healthcare leader, at Weber State University, you’ll find a graduate nursing program track that is right for you. Weber State offers two accelerated MSN tracks in nursing education and nursing leadership & management. Regardless of whether you choose nursing education or nursing leadership as your MSN specialty, you’ll be prepared to play influential roles in the nursing field. Upon completing the program, you’ll obtain your master's in nursing degree and be prepared to take the certification exam within your chosen focus area.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: Weber State University’s BSN-to-MSN offers a quick path to advanced roles in nursing. No matter the MSN specialty you choose, you’ll complete the program within as few as 12 months.

Why Choose Weber State University Online Nursing Program

• Weber State University’s 12-month online nursing program is not only 100% online but the program also provides clinical rations within a student’s home community.
• Weber State University’s MSN tracks are taught by expert faculty members who play prominent leadership roles in healthcare.

6. National University - San Diego, CA

Specialties Offered: Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner – Lifespan

Program Length: Family Nurse Practitioner (12 Months) and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner – Lifespan (12 Months)

Program Details: National University is a non-profit that prepares graduates for two in-demand roles, a family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. By offering an excellent BSN-to-MSN program the university prepares you for leadership in your chosen NP specialization. While the FNP track comprises 47 credits, the PMHNP specialty requires the completion of 45 credits. The program covers several topics in advanced practice nursing, including, advanced pharmacology, advanced physical assessment, advanced pathophysiology, issues in advanced practice nursing, and the healthcare management of individuals within your chosen population focus.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: One of the quickest ways of becoming a nurse practitioner, National’s BSN-to-MSN program, regardless of the specialty takes just 12 months to complete.

Why Choose National University Online Nursing Program

• National University’s BSN-to-MSN is one of the few 1-year nursing programs online that offer year-round enrollment.
• National University’s BSN-to-MSN graduates become part of a large alumni community with more than 230K graduates working worldwide.

7. William Paterson University - Wayne, NJ

Specialties Offered: Nursing Administration and Nursing Education

Program Length: Nursing Administration (10 Months) and Nursing Education (12 Months)

Program Details: William Paterson University’s BSN-to-MSN expedites your nursing career in two highly lucrative fields, nursing administration and nursing education. The program is designed for working professionals and therefore offers 100% online coursework and allows students to complete clinical experiences close to home. The MSN in nursing administration comprises 31 credits, whereas the nursing education tracks require the completion of 35 credits. Both the BSN-to-MSN tracks are built on common core courses such as population health, advanced pathophysiology, advanced pharmacology, nursing research, and theoretical foundations for nursing.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: To complete the BSN-to-MSN in nursing education all it takes is 10 months, whereas the nursing education specialty can be completed within 12 months.

Why Choose William Paterson University Online Nursing Program

• William Paterson University’s one-year online nursing program is one of the more affordable options in the region.
• William Paterson University is one of the top public schools in the nation as per the U.S. News & World Report.

8. West Coast University - Irvine, CA

Specialties Offered: Nurse Educator and Nurse Leader

Program Length: Nurse Educator (12 Months) and Nurse Leader (12 Months)

Program Details: If you want to accelerate your nursing career, then at West Coast University, you have two options, either you can choose to become a nurse educator or a nurse leader. By offering another one of the best 12-month nursing programs online, the university trains you for healthcare leadership, without really interrupting your life. Both the BSN-to-MSN tracks comprise 30 credits. In addition to online didactic courses, the program also includes a practice integration experience where you apply your newly acquired advanced nursing skills to practice.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: West Coast University’s BSN-to-MSN program’s accelerated coursework takes just 12 months to complete.

Why Choose West Coast University Online Nursing Program

• West Coast University’s one-year online nursing program allows you to start anytime throughout the year. This is because the program offers courses in the 8-week format. Further, students access the coursework and other learning resources 24/7. Students also have access to no-cost tutoring and other online learning tools.
• West Coast University maintains partnerships with several healthcare organizations to provide students with meaningful clinical placements within their home community.

WHAT ARE THE BEST (1-YEAR) BSN-TO-DNP ONLINE NURSING PROGRAMS FOR NURSES IN THE NATION?

(Based on our Ranking Methodology, the following are the best 1-year BSN-to-DNP online nursing programs. These programs are for students with a BSN degree. You can complete these programs in 12 months or less.)

1. Abilene Christian University - Abilene, TX

Specialties Offered: Executive Nursing Leadership

Program Length: 12 Months

Program Details: If you are searching for 1-year nursing online programs that can seamlessly take you from a BSN-prepared registered nurse to a doctoral-level nurse leader, then Abilene Christian University’s BSN-to-DNP is an excellent choice. Here, within hardly any time you can obtain a terminal degree in nursing and expand your skills in nursing leadership. The BSN-to-DNP in executive nursing leadership comprises 57 credits in topics such as spirituality & nursing care, population health, informatics, epidemiology, organizational & system leadership, and healthcare finance. The program also teaches quality improvement and health program planning & improvement.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: Abilene Christian University’s BSN-to-DNP in executive nursing leadership can be completed within 12 months.

Why Choose Abilene Christian University Online Nursing Program

• Abilene Christian University’s one-year online nursing program offers Christ-centered education.
• Abilene Christian University allows BSN-to-DNP students to lock in the tuition rate. Therefore, students pay the same tuition rate from the start until they graduate.

WHAT ARE THE BEST (1-YEAR) MSN-TO-DNP ONLINE NURSING PROGRAMS FOR NURSES IN THE NATION?

(Based on our Ranking Methodology, the following are the 3 best 1-year MSN-to-DNP online nursing programs. These programs are for students with an MSN degree. You can complete these programs in 12 months or less.)

1. University of Minnesota - Minneapolis, MN

Program Length: One Year

Program Details: University of Minnesota’s MSN-to-DNP builds on your advanced nursing knowledge to prepare you with doctoral-level knowledge. The one-year online nursing program is open to nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, nurse midwives, and CRNAs. The program is mostly online and covers topics such as nursing informatics, nursing research, health policy, healthcare economics, epidemiology, and quality improvement & project implementation.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: At the University of Minnesota, you can earn your doctorate within as little as one year.

Why Choose University of Minnesota Online Nursing Program

• University of Minnesota’s Doctor of Nursing Practice program is ranked among the best in the nation as per the U.S. News & World Report.
• University of Minnesota’s 12-month nursing online program is 100% online, requiring no on-campus visits.

2. Francis Marion University - Florence, SC

Program Length: One Year

Program Details: Francis Marion University’s one-year nursing online program is a fast-paced route to a doctorate in nursing. The program allows advanced practice nurses to obtain the highest level of clinical expertise. The MSN-to-DNP coursework consists of 30 credits and covers doctoral-level topics such as knowledge development, research & epidemiology, health policy, finance & leadership, and project development. Besides, students also complete a capstone and MSN-to-DNP residency.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: Francis Marion University’s MSN-to-DNP can be completed within as little as one year.

Why Choose Francis Marion University Online Nursing Program

• Francis Marion University’s one-year nursing online program is offered in small-sized classes where students receive personalized attention.
• Francis Marion University’s online nursing program is grounded in faith-based values of community service and health equity.

3. Holy Family University - Philadelphia, PA

Specialties Offered: Leadership for the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)

Program Length: 3 Semesters

Program Details: The MSN-to-DNP program at Holy Family University is meant for masters-level APRNs who want to obtain the highest level of clinical practice. This 12-month online nursing program consists of 26 credits and includes 500 hours of clinical practice. The track is a quick pathway, comprising online didactic courses that teach you doctoral-level concepts. The program does not lead to any certification exam. Graduates are fully prepared to transform healthcare by playing impactful leadership roles in diverse types of healthcare environments.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: Holy Family University’s MSN-to-DNP program’s accelerated pace allows you to complete it within as little as three semesters.

Why Choose Holy Family University Online Nursing Program

• Because Holy Family University offers the lowest net cost in PA, MSN-to-DNP students complete their doctoral education without burning the bank.
• Holy Family University maintains small-sized classes where MSN-to-DNP students receive personalized attention. The perk of studying in a close-knit environment is that everyone knows everyone’s name, leading to close interactions with faculty and peers.