Identify Your Needs and Goals 

A nursing career offers strong job security, competitive pay, and the opportunity to positively impact patients’ lives. To advance in this rewarding field, you’ll need the right education. 

• Understand your goals: Consider what you hope to achieve with your nursing degree. Are you switching careers or seeking advancement within the field? Do you want higher pay, more responsibility, or greater flexibility?
• Consider your responsibilities: If you’re balancing work, family, and other commitments, an online nursing degree can help you pursue nursing education while managing your other responsibilities. Look for accredited programs offering accelerated or competency-based formats that allow you to progress at a pace that meets your needs. 
• Plan for the future: If you don’t yet have a nursing license, then start with a prelicensure BSN program. If you’re already a registered nurse, then an RN-to-BSN program can broaden your opportunities considerably. For those seeking advanced practice roles, consider pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). 

Research Program Options

Choosing an online nursing program starts with understanding the types of degrees available, the learning formats, and program requirements."

• Types of programs available: An associate degree in nursing (ADN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) each support different levels of professional development.
• Program delivery formats: Many online programs provide 24/7 access to course materials, assignments, and testing services. Accelerated and competency-based learning options build on this flexibility, giving students even greater control over how and when they complete coursework.  
• Clinical experiences: In-person clinical rotations allow students to practice patient care skills under the supervision of licensed nurses. Clinical requirements vary by program and state, so it’s crucial to choose a nursing program that provides options compatible with your schedule.

Evaluate Program Costs and Financial Aid 

Cost is a common barrier to starting nursing school, but the long-term personal and professional rewards often outweigh the initial investment. As you consider the financial implications of nursing school, keep the following tips in mind:  

• Compare total expenses: Paying for nursing school involves more than just tuition. Evaluate the total program costs, including expenses related to technology, equipment, and liability insurance during clinicals. 
• Explore financial aid options: Many nursing students qualify for federal and state financial aid, scholarships, and grants. Some employers also provide tuition reimbursement to help nurses advance their education while continuing to work full-time.  
• Consider return on investment: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, RNs earn a median annual wage of $93,600, while APRNs earn a median salary of $132,050 a year. Investing in your nursing education can lead to long-term financial stability and rewarding career opportunities.

Review Accreditation and Licensure Outcomes 

Whether you're beginning pre-nursing coursework or pursuing an advanced degree like an MSN or DNP, it's essential to choose a respected, accredited, and industry-aligned program.

• Verify accreditation status: Accreditation shows that a healthcare program meets rigorous academic and professional standards, including qualified faculty and a curriculum aligned with professional benchmarks. Check the accreditation status online to ensure your chosen program provides a trusted, high-quality education. 
• Check state alignment: A strong nursing degree program meets state requirements and prepares students to pass the NCLEX exam. Look for schools with high pass rates and strong licensure outcomes.    
• Research graduate outcomes: High post-graduation employment rates indicate that a nursing program effectively prepares graduates for certification, licensure, and long-term success in professional nursing practice. 

Balance Work, Life, and Study Commitments 

Juggling multiple priorities at once is one of the biggest challenges for nursing students who work full-time. Consider the following tips for building a solid work-life balance. 

• Develop good time management: Block out study time in your calendar, set weekly goals, and break tasks into manageable chunks. 
• Build your support network: Rely on Program Mentors, Course Instructors, academic coaches, tutors, study groups, and peers. Connect with individuals who understand the demands of nursing school and will support you throughout your educational journey. 
• Use study resources: Take full advantage of online modules, virtual simulation labs, instructional videos, and practice quizzes. Consider using online study tools such as Quizlet, Picmonic, and UWorld to reinforce nursing concepts and track your learning progress.

Apply and Prepare for Enrollment 

Beginning the application process can feel overwhelming, but understanding the steps in advance can help you stay organized and confident. 

• Submit the application: Fill out the online application and review the admission requirements early. Even institutions like WGU, which have rolling admissions, recommend applying early to secure your preferred start date.
• Finalize enrollment steps: Complete the financial aid forms, submit your transcripts, and set up any tuition payment plans. 
• Complete orientation: Before classes start, you’ll complete an orientation program that introduces you to academic expectations, online learning resources, and support services. Use this time to ask any questions and make sure you understand the expectations and requirements of the program. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Nursing Programs

How do I balance a full-time job while studying nursing online?  

Balancing work and education simultaneously is challenging, but possible with a proactive approach. Plan ahead by establishing a consistent study schedule and setting realistic weekly goals.

Create a dedicated, distraction-free space to complete coursework efficiently. Lean on support systems such as family, peers, or academic mentors who can help you stay motivated and on track.

What types of financial aid are available for online nursing programs?  

Nursing students should explore all possible financial aid options to keep education costs as low as possible. Look into nursing scholarships, grants, and student loan programs. Check if your employer offers a tuition reimbursement or assistance program for employees who are advancing their careers. 

Are online nursing degrees respected in the healthcare industry?  

Online and hybrid degrees are now widely accepted by employers. In fact, over 87% of employers surveyed by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) reported hiring graduates with an online degree. 

Most healthcare employers look for candidates with a degree from an accredited institution—regardless of whether coursework was completed on a campus or online. They prioritize technical proficiency, interpersonal skills, and clinical judgment over where or how a degree was earned.

What are the clinical requirements for an online nursing program?  

Clinical requirements differ by state and program. Online BSN programs usually include 600 to 1,000 clinical hours. RN-to-BSN programs generally involve far fewer clinical hours. Clinical requirements for MSN programs mainly depend on the specialty and can range from fewer than 200 to over 700 clinical hours. 

How can I ensure the program meets licensure requirements?  

Check the program’s accreditation and confirm that the curriculum meets state licensure requirements. Ask about the school’s NCLEX pass rate to see how effectively the program prepares students to achieve licensure. You can also find valuable information about a school’s credibility through the U.S. Department of Education and the State Board of Nursing.