Nursing Program Ranking 

A nursing career provides valuable chances to learn, grow, and make a positive difference in patients’ lives. If you’re ready to enter or advance within the nursing field, exploring WGU nursing paths can help you find the right degree for you.  

In the following guide, nursing programs are ranked based on student starting points, goals, and potential career outcomes. As you weigh your options, consider program availability, time commitment, cost, licensure readiness, and clinical requirements.  

#1 BSN Prelicensure  

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Prelicensure) program is designed for nursing candidates without an associate degree or a registered nurse license. It's ideal for both first-time college students and career changers.  

Students complete online coursework, two in-person learning labs, and seven clinical rotations. Clinical hours provide essential hands-on training needed for licensure eligibility. This is a four-year program, though some students may be able to accelerate their progress with transfer credits.  

#2 RN to BSN  

Nearly 70% of employers strongly prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree. Earning a BSN can broaden career opportunities for registered nurses and provide a strong foundation for future MSN programs.  

WGU’s RN-to-BSN program is designed for registered nurses with an associate degree who are pursuing career advancement through a BSN. This accredited program is designed to be completed in one year. Clinical requirements include 35 hours of in-person work experience.  

#3 RN to MSN Pathway 

WGU’s RN-to-MSN programs provide an affordable pathway to earning a bachelor’s and master’s degree through a single program. The BSN award process marks the completion of undergraduate studies before students advance to graduate courses focused on advanced practice skills.  

Specialization options include nursing leadership and management, nursing informatics, and nursing education. These degrees are competency based, so the MSN timeline can vary. Some RN-to-MSN students can complete the program in as little as one year.   

#4 MSN Leadership and Management  

The M.S. in Nursing–Leadership and Management program prepares registered nurses for healthcare administration and nursing management roles. This nursing degree is intended for RNs with a BSN who are pursuing leadership roles through targeted skills development and professional growth.   

Students in this program strengthen their decision-making, communication, leadership, and management skills through online coursework and field experiences. Because students progress by demonstrating competency, the program length for this degree varies.  

#5 MSN Nursing Education (BSN to MSN) 

The M.S. in Nursing–Education program prepares nurses to transition from clinical practice to nurse educator roles. In addition to online coursework, this degree path involves field experiences that are completed in a healthcare facility.  

WGU’s competency-based education model enables students to advance by demonstrating mastery. This program flexibility helps working nurses develop skills in curriculum design and instruction, leading to rewarding career outcomes in academic and clinical settings. 

#6 MSN Nursing Informatics  

WGU’s M.S. in Nursing–Nursing Informatics program is designed for registered nurses interested in the intersection of data management and healthcare. This specialty places less emphasis on patient care and more on improving care quality through technological integration.  

This nursing program is built for working professionals. It offers both flexibility and personalized pacing, allowing nurses to develop new skills and broaden their career opportunities while still managing other responsibilities.  

#7 MSN Nurse Practitioner Programs  

WGU’s nurse practitioner programs prepare nurses for advanced nursing practice involving direct patient care. The family nurse practitioner pathway focuses on primary and preventative care. The psychiatric mental health NP pathway focuses on mental health assessment, therapy, and psychiatric medication management.  

Both nurse practitioner specialties include 650 clinical hours focused on diagnosing, treating, and prescribing medication to patients in real-world settings. This program allows students to progress through online coursework at a pace that fits their needs. Program length varies. 

Frequently Asked Questions  

Can I Become an RN Fully Online At WGU?  

WGU’s nursing degrees blend online coursework with in-person clinical hours. To become a registered nurse, you must complete on-site clinicals, but online coursework is available 24/7. 

Does WGU Secure Clinical Placements for Me?  

At WGU, field experience coordinators assist with setting up clinical placements. They offer guidance and collaborate with your placement location to ensure you have everything needed to complete the clinical hours required for licensure.  

Can I Work Full-Time During the Prelicensure BSN?  

While balancing work and studies can be challenging, it is possible. WGU’s flexibility makes it easier for students to complete online coursework when and where it's convenient, whether they’re studying during work breaks, evenings, or weekends.  

Will WGU’s Pass or Fail Model Affect Grad School?  

The pass/fail model at WGU typically does not hinder admission to graduate programs. Many schools appreciate WGU’s competency-based approach because it emphasizes skill mastery over time spent in a classroom. 

How Does WGU Prepare Me for the NCLEX Exam?  

WGU’s Prelicensure nursing degree program prepares students for the NCLEX exam by designing the curriculum to align with both the exam content and the skills required for real-world nursing practice.  

What Types of Nursing Roles Can I Get with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing?  

A BSN opens doors to many different types of nursing careers. Whether you want to become a critical care nurse or move into leadership roles such as nurse manager or clinical supervisor, a BSN can support your goals.