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Nursing Degree Online Programs

Whether you’re starting out as an LPN or advancing an existing RN license, nursing degree online programs offer a clear path to build your credentials over time. DegreeFlex can match you with accredited registered nursing degree online programs at every level.

What Do Nursing Degree Programs Cover?

Nursing programs combine classroom instruction with supervised clinical hours, building the skills needed to provide patient care across a range of settings. Nursing schools online near you typically pair online coursework with in person clinical placements, since hands-on patient care experience cannot be completed remotely.

Nursing Degree Pay and Job Outlook

Nursing degree programs most commonly lead to registered nurse roles. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses earned a median annual wage of $97,550 as of May 2025, with about 3.5 million people employed in the role, one of the largest healthcare occupations in the country. Employment is projected to grow 6% from 2025 to 2035, faster than the average for all occupations, with about 180,800 openings projected each year.

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Kaplan has offered specialized, flexible degree programs to students around the globe. Our mission is to empower a diverse student body for academic, personal, and professional success.

Pros and Cons of a Nursing Career

1

Multiple entry points and clear paths to advance credentials

Requires passing the NCLEX licensing exam at each level

2

Strong, steady demand across nearly every healthcare setting

Shift work often includes nights, weekends, and holidays

 

3

Well above average pay, especially with a BSN or higher

Shift work often includes nights, weekends, and holidays

 

4

Bridge programs make it possible to advance while working

Clinical hours must be completed in person, not fully online

 

Choose Your Degree Level

LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse)

The fastest entry point into nursing, often under a year to complete

 

LPN to RN Programs

Working LPNs who want to advance to a registered nurse license

 

RN Associate Degree

A common path to becoming a registered nurse in about two years

 

Nursing Masters Degree Online (MSN)

Advanced practice, specialized, or nursing leadership and education roles

Common Questions About Nursing Degree Programs

What's the difference between LPN, RN, and BSN?

An LPN is the fastest entry point into nursing, typically under a year. An RN generally requires an associate degree at minimum, while a BSN is a four year bachelor’s degree, often preferred or required for hospital and leadership roles.

LPN to RN programs, often called bridge programs, allow licensed practical nurses to build on their existing training and credits to become a registered nurse, typically faster than starting an RN program from scratch.

Not always, but many hospitals now prefer or require a BSN for RN roles, which is why RN to BSN degree programs have become a common next step for working registered nurses.

Yes. Many lpn to rn bridge programs online combine online coursework with required in person clinical hours, allowing working LPNs to advance their credential.

A master’s degree (MSN) can open doors to advanced practice roles, specialized nursing fields, or nursing education and leadership, though a BSN is enough to begin working as a registered nurse.

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Ready to Advance Your Nursing Career?

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