Best Nursing Programs for Working Adults

Flexible, accredited nursing programs designed for professionals who need to balance work, family, and education. Online and hybrid formats let you advance your career without putting your life on hold.

Why Working Adults Are Choosing Online Nursing Programs

The nursing profession is experiencing a workforce transformation. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), registered nursing positions are projected to grow 6 percent between 2022 and 2032, with approximately 193,100 openings annually. This demand, combined with widespread nursing shortages, has created unprecedented opportunities for working adults to enter or advance in the field.

Online and hybrid nursing programs have become a critical pathway for working professionals. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) reports that enrollment in online nursing programs has grown substantially, with the majority of RN-to-BSN students now completing their degrees through distance education. These programs deliver the same rigorous curriculum and accreditation as traditional on-campus programs while offering the scheduling flexibility that working adults require.

For healthcare workers already in clinical roles — CNAs, LPNs, and RNs — online programs provide a particularly efficient advancement pathway. Students can apply their existing clinical experience toward degree requirements, often earning credit for prior learning. Employers increasingly support these transitions through tuition reimbursement and flexible scheduling, recognizing that a better-educated nursing workforce improves patient outcomes and organizational performance.

Best Program Types for Working Adults

RN-to-BSN Programs (12–18 Months)

Ideal for registered nurses with an associate degree, RN-to-BSN programs are the most popular choice for working adults. Almost all are available fully online, and many offer 8-week course terms with multiple start dates per year. The RN-to-BSN pathway is designed around working nurses' schedules, with asynchronous coursework and locally arranged clinical requirements.

Accelerated BSN Programs (12–20 Months)

For career changers who hold a non-nursing bachelor's degree, accelerated BSN programs compress four years of nursing education into 12–20 months. While intensive, many offer hybrid formats with online didactic courses and locally arranged clinical rotations. These programs represent one of the fastest paths to becoming an RN for adults who already have a bachelor's degree.

Online MSN and DNP Programs (2–4 Years Part-Time)

Experienced nurses seeking leadership, education, or nurse practitioner roles can pursue graduate degrees online while continuing to work. Part-time MSN programs typically take 2–3 years, while DNP programs take 3–4 years. These programs often require short on-campus immersion sessions (2–5 days, once or twice per year) rather than weekly attendance, making them practical for working professionals.

LPN-to-RN Bridge Programs (12–18 Months)

Licensed Practical Nurses can bridge to RN licensure through programs that recognize their existing education and clinical experience. Many LPN-to-RN bridge programs offer evening and weekend classes alongside online coursework, allowing LPNs to continue working while earning their associate or bachelor's degree in nursing.

What to Look for in a Working-Adult-Friendly Program

Asynchronous Coursework: Lectures and assignments you complete on your own schedule, not at fixed times.
Multiple Start Dates:Programs with 5–6 start dates per year (every 8 weeks) let you begin when you're ready.
Part-Time Enrollment: The ability to take fewer credits per term extends your timeline but keeps work sustainable.
Local Clinical Placement: Schools that arrange clinical rotations near your home minimize commuting.
Credit for Prior Learning: Programs that accept transfer credits or give credit for clinical experience save time and tuition.
Employer Partnerships: Some schools partner with healthcare employers to offer discounted tuition or guaranteed clinical placements.

Find Nursing Programs Near You

Enter your zip code to get matched with accredited programs.

Compare Programs for Working Adults

Program	School	Degree	Format	Tuition	Duration	NCLEX Rate	Grad Rate	Clinical Hrs	Action
ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing)	Excelsior University	ADN	Online	$14,560	24 mo	—	58%	650	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Excelsior University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Pre-Licensure)	Western Governors University	BSN	Online	$35,700	36 mo	91.79%	55%	750	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Western Governors University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
BSN — Pre-Licensure	Aspen University	BSN	Online	$28,800	36 mo	—	60%	750	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Aspen University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
BSN — Pre-Licensure	National University	BSN	Online	$45,000	36 mo	—	62%	750	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to National University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
BSN (Pre-Licensure Online)	Joyce University of Nursing and Health Sciences	BSN	Online	$52,000	36 mo	91.2%	82%	750	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Joyce University of Nursing and Health Sciences based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
BSN Completion	Southern New Hampshire University	BSN	Online	$50,400	48 mo	—	70%	750	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Southern New Hampshire University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
BSN Completion	American Public University System	BSN	Online	$27,000	36 mo	—	58%	750	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to American Public University System based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
BSN Completion	Excelsior University	BSN	Online	$30,000	36 mo	—	58%	750	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Excelsior University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	University of Michigan — Flint	DNP	Online	$31,104	36 mo	—	78%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to University of Michigan — Flint based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	Johns Hopkins University	DNP	Online	$88,000	36 mo	—	92%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Johns Hopkins University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	University of Phoenix	DNP	Online	$51,840	36 mo	—	55%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to University of Phoenix based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	University of Pennsylvania	DNP	Online	$108,000	36 mo	—	93%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to University of Pennsylvania based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	Capella University	DNP	Online	$46,800	42 mo	—	58%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Capella University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	George Washington University	DNP	Online	$78,000	36 mo	—	82%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to George Washington University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	Drexel University	DNP	Online	$45,000	36 mo	—	75%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Drexel University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	Walden University	DNP	Online	$51,000	48 mo	—	65%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Walden University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	Gonzaga University	DNP	Online	$38,880	36 mo	—	82%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Gonzaga University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	Grand Canyon University	DNP	Online	$30,000	36 mo	—	68%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Grand Canyon University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	Simmons University	DNP	Online	$75,000	36 mo	—	83%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Simmons University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	Sacred Heart University	DNP	Online	$65,000	36 mo	—	78%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Sacred Heart University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	Maryville University	DNP	Online	$36,000	36 mo	—	74%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Maryville University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	University of Texas at Arlington	DNP	Online	$36,120	36 mo	—	76%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to University of Texas at Arlington based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	Michigan State University	DNP	Online	$39,600	36 mo	—	79%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Michigan State University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	Regis College	DNP	Online	$60,000	36 mo	—	82%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Regis College based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	Penn State World Campus	DNP	Online	$36,960	36 mo	—	72%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Penn State World Campus based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	Liberty University	DNP	Online	$28,620	36 mo	—	72%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Liberty University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	Chamberlain University	DNP	Online	$45,000	36 mo	—	62%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Chamberlain University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP — Executive Leadership	Purdue University Global	DNP	Online	$36,000	36 mo	—	65%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Purdue University Global based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
MSN	Liberty University	MSN	Online	$19,980	24 mo	—	72%	135	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Liberty University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
MSN — Administration	University of Texas at Arlington	MSN	Online	$24,120	24 mo	—	76%	135	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to University of Texas at Arlington based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
Accelerated BSN	Grand Canyon University	BSN	Hybrid	$49,000	18 mo	95.57%	68%	750	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Grand Canyon University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
BSN	Rasmussen University	BSN	Hybrid	$58,000	36 mo	82.1%	63%	750	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Rasmussen University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
BSN (Hybrid)	Indiana State University	BSN	Hybrid	$35,000	36 mo	89.04%	73%	750	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Indiana State University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
BSN (Pre-Licensure Hybrid)	Chamberlain University	BSN	Hybrid	$69,000	36 mo	79.75%	62%	750	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Chamberlain University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	Marquette University	DNP	Hybrid	$64,000	36 mo	—	84%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Marquette University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	Jacksonville University	DNP	Hybrid	$60,000	36 mo	—	74%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Jacksonville University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	Villanova University	DNP	Hybrid	$63,000	36 mo	—	88%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Villanova University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	University of Pittsburgh	DNP	Hybrid	$55,000	36 mo	—	87%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to University of Pittsburgh based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	Yale University	DNP	Hybrid	$108,000	36 mo	—	94%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Yale University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	Florida State University	DNP	Hybrid	$36,000	36 mo	—	83%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Florida State University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	University of Washington	DNP	Hybrid	$54,000	36 mo	—	88%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to University of Washington based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	Oregon Health & Science University	DNP	Hybrid	$52,000	36 mo	—	88%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Oregon Health & Science University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	University of Tennessee at Knoxville	DNP	Hybrid	$36,000	36 mo	—	79%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to University of Tennessee at Knoxville based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	University of South Florida	DNP	Hybrid	$31,680	36 mo	—	80%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to University of South Florida based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	University of Maryland — Baltimore	DNP	Hybrid	$46,800	36 mo	—	80%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to University of Maryland — Baltimore based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	Ohio State University	DNP	Hybrid	$45,000	36 mo	—	82%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Ohio State University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	Loyola University Chicago	DNP	Hybrid	$72,000	36 mo	—	83%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Loyola University Chicago based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	University of Colorado — Anschutz Medical Campus	DNP	Hybrid	$43,200	36 mo	—	85%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to University of Colorado — Anschutz Medical Campus based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	Seton Hall University	DNP	Hybrid	$72,000	36 mo	—	80%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Seton Hall University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.
DNP	Rush University	DNP	Hybrid	$72,000	36 mo	—	89%	1,000	Find Nursing Programs Get matched with programs similar to Rush University based on your location and goals. First Name Zip Code * Program Type Background Education When do you want to start? Email * — get your matches emailed to you Phone (optional — for program advisors) Free. No obligation. No spam.

Financing Your Nursing Education While Working

Working adults have several financial advantages when pursuing nursing degrees. Employer tuition reimbursement is one of the most common benefits in healthcare — many hospitals and health systems cover $3,000–$10,000 per year in tuition costs. Some organizations offer full tuition coverage in exchange for a service commitment of 2–3 years after graduation.

Federal financial aid (Pell Grants, Direct Loans) is available to eligible part-time students. The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)offers loan repayment programs that cover up to $50,000 in student loans for nurses who work in underserved areas. Nursing-specific scholarships from organizations like the National Student Nurses' Association and the American Nurses Foundation provide additional funding opportunities.

Explore our Nursing ROI Calculator to estimate the return on investment for your specific situation.

Explore More

All Online Nursing Programs Fastest Nursing Programs RN to BSN Programs Cheapest Online BSN Programs Accelerated BSN Online Nursing ROI Calculator

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work full-time while earning a nursing degree?

Yes. Many nursing programs are designed specifically for working adults. Online and hybrid programs offer asynchronous coursework, evening and weekend clinical rotations, and part-time enrollment options. RN-to-BSN programs are particularly flexible — most can be completed in 12–18 months while working full-time. MSN and DNP programs also offer part-time tracks, though clinical hours require scheduled availability. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), the majority of RN-to-BSN students work full-time while enrolled.

What nursing degrees are best for working adults?

The best nursing degrees for working adults depend on your current credentials. For practicing RNs, RN-to-BSN programs offer the fastest path to a bachelor's with maximum flexibility. For career changers with a non-nursing bachelor's degree, accelerated BSN (ABSN) programs offer a 12–20 month intensive pathway. For experienced nurses seeking advancement, online MSN or DNP programs with part-time options provide career growth without leaving the workforce. LPN-to-RN bridge programs are ideal for Licensed Practical Nurses looking to advance.

How much do flexible nursing programs cost?

Tuition varies widely by program type and institution. Online RN-to-BSN programs at public universities range from $10,000–$25,000 total. ABSN programs typically cost $20,000–$60,000. MSN programs range from $20,000–$60,000, and DNP programs can cost $30,000–$100,000 or more. Many employers offer tuition reimbursement for nursing employees — the Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that healthcare organizations increasingly fund education as a retention strategy. Federal financial aid, nursing-specific scholarships, and HRSA loan repayment programs can further reduce costs.

Do online nursing programs require in-person attendance?

Most online nursing programs require some in-person clinical hours to meet state licensing board requirements. However, schools typically partner with healthcare facilities near the student's location to arrange local clinical placements, minimizing travel. The didactic (classroom) portion is fully online in most programs. Some programs offer intensive immersion weekends or short residency sessions instead of weekly campus attendance, which is more practical for working adults.

How long does it take to complete a nursing program part-time?

Part-time timelines extend standard program durations by 50–100%. An RN-to-BSN program typically takes 18–24 months part-time (vs. 12–18 months full-time). ADN programs take 3–4 years part-time (vs. 2 years). MSN programs take 3–4 years part-time (vs. 2–3 years). DNP programs may take 4–6 years part-time. Many programs offer rolling or frequent start dates — often every 8 weeks — so students don't have to wait for a traditional fall semester to begin.

Are there employer tuition reimbursement programs for nursing?

Yes. Many healthcare employers offer tuition reimbursement as a recruitment and retention benefit. Hospitals, long-term care facilities, and health systems commonly cover $3,000–$10,000 per year in tuition costs for employees pursuing nursing degrees. Some organizations offer full tuition coverage in exchange for a service commitment (typically 2–3 years). The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) also offers loan repayment programs for nurses who work in underserved areas, covering up to $50,000 in student loans.

Free Program Matching

Get Matched with Accredited Nursing Programs

Tell us your zip code and program preference, and we’ll connect you with top nursing schools that match your goals — tuition budget, schedule, and location.

Takes 30 seconds — completely freeCompare tuition, accreditation, and program lengthNo spam — only programs that fit your criteria

Find Programs Near You

Enter your details to see matching programs.