Fastest Nursing Programs in Rhode Island (2026)
The fastest accredited nursing program in Rhode Island takes 9 months. Compare accelerated BSN (12–18 months), ADN (18–24 months), and LPN/LVN (9–12 months) pathways below — then request free info from programs accepting applications now.
9 mo
Shortest Program
173
Accredited Programs
$100K
Avg RN Salary
167
Online / Hybrid
14
Entry-Level RN
—
LPN / LVN
Salary source: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024
Key takeaways
- Fastest accredited program in Rhode Island: 9 months.
- Prioritize NCLEX pass rates over raw speed — a longer program with 95% outcomes beats a fast program with 70%.
- Rhode Island offers 14 entry-level RN programs with sponsored LPN/LVN partner matches, and 47 bridge/transition programs.
- Total tuition across Rhode Island programs ranges from $8,100 to $209,000.
- Registered nurses in Rhode Island earn $99,770/year on average (BLS May 2024).
Choose your pathway
Compare Fastest Programs Accepting Applications in Rhode Island
Free info packetsNo obligationAccredited programs only
Advertiser DisclosureThese accredited programs are currently enrolling Rhode Island residents. Request free tuition and start-date information — no obligation, accredited programs only.
Fastest ABSN & ADN Programs
Accelerated BSN and ADN pathways — the fastest routes to full RN licensure.
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New England Institute of Technology
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). On Campus format.
University of Rhode Island
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). On Campus format.
Rhode Island College
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). On Campus format.
Rhode Island College
Accelerated BSN (Second Degree). On Campus format.
Excelsior University
The ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) program at Excelsior University is delivered 100% online, making it ideal for those seeking flexibility in their education. This 60-credit program can be complet…
Western Governors University
WGU's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Pre-Licensure) program prepares you for a successful nursing career. This 100% online program requires 124 credits and can be completed in about 36 months, provi…
Aspen University
Aspen University’s BSN — Pre-Licensure program offers a pathway for students to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This 120-credit program is fully online and can be completed in 36 months, makin…
National University
National University's BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program is a comprehensive pre-licensure pathway that prepares you for a successful nursing career. Offered entirely online, this 120-credit…
Joyce University of Nursing and Health Sciences
CCNE-accredited pre-licensure BSN delivered online with clinical placements coordinated nationwide. Designed for students completing prerequisites while working; Utah DOPL-reported NCLEX outcomes exc…
American Public University System
The BSN program offers a comprehensive curriculum for individuals pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Delivered entirely online, this 36-month program requires 120 credits, allowing you to bal…
Excelsior University
The BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) completion program at Excelsior University is available 100% online, allowing you to earn your degree on your schedule. This 120-credit program can be finishe…
Salve Regina University
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). On Campus format.
Southern New Hampshire University
SNHU's BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program is a comprehensive online degree designed for those starting their nursing journey. This 120-credit program takes approximately 48 months to comple…
Fastest LPN / LVN Programs
LPN and LVN programs are often the fastest path (9–12 months). Compare vocational schools accepting Rhode Island residents below. Showing matches near ZIP 43215.
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Rhode Island nursing programs by completion time
Among 173 Rhode Island nursing programs across all degree types with listed completion times, the shortest runs 9 months (Chamberlain University, RN-BSN) and listed durations extend to 60 months. Program data current as of 2026-07-20.
Degree
Delivery
Showing 173 of 173 programs. Default order: shortest duration.
Source: MyNursingSchools program directory as of 2026-07-20. Programs without a listed duration are omitted.
Get Matched with Fast Programs in Rhode Island
RNs in Rhode Island earn $99,770/year on average. Tell us your timeline and we'll match you with programs you can start this year — free, ~30 seconds.
Quick Picks by Situation
Our analysis of Rhode Island programs — matched to the most common student goals.
Fastest path to any nursing credential
LPN/LVN certificate program (9–12 months)
Private vocational schools often have the shortest timelines in Rhode Island.
Fastest path to RN licensure
ABSN — 16 months
Rhode Island College. Full RN license; eligible for hospital employment.
Lowest debt while becoming an RN
Community college ADN — from $14,560
Excelsior University. Longer waitlists are common; plan 1–2 years ahead.
Best for working adults
Online program — 9 months
Chamberlain University. Flexible didactic schedule; clinical hours remain on-site.
| Your situation | Best option | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Fastest path to any nursing credential | LPN/LVN certificate program (9–12 months) | Private vocational schools often have the shortest timelines in Rhode Island. |
| Fastest path to RN licensure | ABSN — 16 months | Rhode Island College. Full RN license; eligible for hospital employment. |
| Lowest debt while becoming an RN | Community college ADN — from $14,560 | Excelsior University. Longer waitlists are common; plan 1–2 years ahead. |
| Best for working adults | Online program — 9 months | Chamberlain University. Flexible didactic schedule; clinical hours remain on-site. |
What most students overlook
A 9-month program is not automatically better. Programs with weak clinical rotations, poor NCLEX prep, or high attrition rates can cost you more time in the long run. We recommend prioritizing: NCLEX outcomes → clinical quality → accreditation → then speed — not just duration.
RN-to-BSN & Bridge Programs in Rhode Island
Free info packetsNo obligationAccredited programs only
Advertiser DisclosureAlready licensed as an RN? Compare accredited bridge programs completing your BSN or MSN in 12–18 months — many accept working nurses.
Sponsored · Disclosure
Chamberlain University
CCNE-accredited online RN-to-BSN at Chamberlain University for licensed RNs. 9-month completion option with 30 credits; no campus visits required; CCNE-accredited and open to RNs with active licensur…
University of Texas at Arlington
The RN to BSN program at UTA is designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their education with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Offered 100% online, this program requires 30 credits and can…
Grand Canyon University
The RN to BSN completion program at GCU is designed for registered nurses seeking to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Delivered entirely online, this program requires 30 credits and can be…
University of Alabama at Birmingham
The RN to BSN completion program at UAB is a 100% online option designed for registered nurses looking to advance their education. This 12-month program requires 30 credits and offers flexibility, al…
Ohio State University
The RN to BSN completion program is designed for registered nurses who want to advance their education. Delivered entirely online, this 12-month program requires 30 credits and provides a convenient…
University of Michigan — Flint
Our RN to BSN completion program is designed for registered nurses looking to elevate their qualifications. Delivered entirely online, you can complete this 30-credit program in just 12 months, allow…
Florida State University
The RN to BSN completion program at FSU is designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their education. Delivered 100% online, this program consists of 30 credits and can be completed in just 1…
Indiana State University
The RN to BSN completion program at Indiana State University is a 100% online degree designed for registered nurses looking to elevate their qualifications. This program requires 30 credits and can b…
University of Cincinnati
The RN to BSN completion program at the University of Cincinnati allows you to earn your Bachelor of Science in Nursing entirely online. Designed for registered nurses, this program requires 30 credi…
Michigan State University
The RN to BSN completion program at Michigan State University is designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their education. Offered 100% online, this program requires 30 credits and can be co…
University of South Florida
USF's RN to BSN completion program is fully online and designed for registered nurses looking to enhance their qualifications. Over 15 months, you will complete 30 credits, gaining vital skills and k…
University of Maryland — Baltimore
The RN to BSN completion program at UMB is a fully online option that allows registered nurses to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing in just 15 months. This 30-credit program is designed for w…
American Public University System
The RN to BSN completion program is designed for registered nurses seeking to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This 100% online program can be completed in just 15 months and requires 30 cr…
Southern New Hampshire University
The RN to BSN completion program at SNHU is designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their education. Delivered 100% online, this program requires 36 credits and can be completed in just 15…
Arizona State University
The RN to BSN program at Arizona State University is designed for registered nurses seeking to elevate their education with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Delivered entirely online, this 30-credit…
Aspen University
The RN to BSN completion program at Aspen University is designed for registered nurses seeking to elevate their education. Delivered 100% online, this program requires 30 credits and can be completed…
Western Governors University
The RN to BSN completion program at WGU is designed for registered nurses who want to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. Delivered 100% online, this program requires 36 credits and can…
Purdue University Global
The RN to BSN program at Purdue University Global allows registered nurses to complete their bachelor's degree entirely online. With a duration of 18 months and 36 credits required, this program is p…
Liberty University
The RN to BSN completion program is designed for registered nurses seeking to elevate their qualifications. Delivered entirely online, this program consists of 30 credits and can be completed in just…
Penn State World Campus
The RN to BSN completion program allows you to advance your nursing career by earning your Bachelor of Science in Nursing entirely online. Designed for registered nurses, this program consists of 30…
Regis College
The RN to BSN completion program is designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their education. Delivered entirely online, this 30-credit program can be completed in just 18 months, allowing y…
Excelsior University
Excelsior's RN to BSN completion program is offered entirely online, allowing registered nurses to advance their education conveniently. Comprising 30 credits, this program can be completed in 18 mon…
Drexel University
The RN to BSN completion program at Drexel University allows you to advance your nursing career with a 100% online format. Comprising 30 credits, this program can be completed in just 18 months, maki…
National University
The RN to BSN completion program at National University is designed for registered nurses seeking to elevate their credentials. Delivered 100% online, this program requires 36 credits and can be comp…
Herzing University
The RN to BSN completion program at Herzing University is designed for registered nurses seeking to elevate their qualifications. Delivered 100% online, this program requires 30 credits and can be co…
Maryville University
The RN to BSN completion program at Maryville University allows you to advance your nursing career with a 100% online format. Completing 30 credits in just 18 months, this program is ideal for regist…
George Washington University
The RN to BSN completion program at George Washington University is designed for registered nurses seeking to elevate their qualifications. Delivered 100% online, this 30-credit program can be comple…
Villanova University
The RN to BSN completion program is designed for registered nurses seeking to enhance their education. Offered 100% online, this program requires 30 credits and can be completed in just 18 months, pr…
Gonzaga University
The RN to BSN completion program at Gonzaga University is designed for registered nurses seeking to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Delivered 100% online, this program requires 30 credits…
Sacred Heart University
The RN to BSN completion program is a 100% online option designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their education. This 18-month program requires 30 credits and offers a flexible, affordable…
Seton Hall University
Designed for registered nurses seeking to enhance their qualifications, the RN to BSN completion program is 100% online and takes just 18 months to complete. With 30 credits required, you can advance…
West Coast University
CCNE-accredited online RN-to-BSN completion program for licensed RNs. Flexible 18-month format with 36 upper-division credits; open to RNs nationwide through West Coast University's distance-educatio…
Joyce University of Nursing and Health Sciences
CCNE-accredited online RN-to-BSN for licensed RNs at Joyce University. 18-month completion pathway with 30 upper-division credits and clinical capstone; CCNE-accredited and open to RNs in all 50 stat…
Capella University
The RN to BSN (FlexPath) program is designed for working nurses who want to complete their degree quickly and flexibly. Delivered 100% online, this 44-credit program can be completed in as little as…
Walden University
The RN to BSN completion program at Walden University is designed for registered nurses seeking to enhance their education and career prospects. This 34-credit program can be completed in 24 months a…
University of Phoenix
CCNE-accredited online RN-to-BSN completion for licensed registered nurses. Competency-based format with 30 upper-division credits; University of Phoenix accepts RNs nationwide with active unencumber…
Capella University
The RN to BSN (GuidedPath) program offers a structured approach for registered nurses looking to earn their BSN. With a 100% online format, this 44-credit program takes approximately 24 months to com…
American Public University System
APUS's CCNE-accredited online RN-to-MSN in Community and Public Health provides a streamlined pathway for diploma/ADN nurses to earn both a BSN and MSN. Students substitute three BSN courses for MSN…
American Public University System
APUS's CCNE-accredited online RN-to-MSN in Nurse Educator prepares diploma/ADN nurses to earn both a BSN and MSN while developing advanced skills in curriculum design, assessment, and clinical educat…
American Public University System
APUS's CCNE-accredited online RN-to-MSN in Nurse Leader prepares diploma/ADN nurses to earn both a BSN and MSN with a focus on healthcare leadership, management, and organizational change. Includes a…
Capella University
The RN to MSN program serves as a bridge for RNs seeking to advance directly to a Master of Science in Nursing. This 60-credit, 100% online program can be completed in 36 months, allowing you to elev…
How to choose a fast nursing program in Rhode Island
Rhode Island is one of the larger nursing education markets we track (173 programs listed) — compare NCLEX pass rates and clinical partnerships, not just tuition. Registered nurses in Rhode Island earn $99,770/year on average (BLS), close to the national benchmark. Students comparing the fastest nursing programs in Rhode Island are usually choosing between LPN/LVN certificates (9–12 months), ADN programs (18–24 months), and accelerated BSN pathways (12–18 months for degree holders). The shortest accredited program we list in Rhode Island completes in 9 months — but speed should never come before NCLEX pass rates and clinical placement quality. We track 173 accredited nursing programs in Rhode Island — including 14 entry-level RN, 47 bridge/RN-to-BSN pathways. Rhode Island is not a Nurse Licensure Compact state — plan to license in Rhode Island directly for in-state practice. Neighboring Connecticut and Massachusetts also require direct licensure or endorsement.
Rhode Island student checklist
- Screen Rhode Island programs by recent NCLEX first-attempt pass rate before tuition — licensing failure costs more time than a longer program.
- Verify ACEN or CCNE accreditation (or state board approval) before any deposit; unaccredited programs may block NCLEX eligibility in Rhode Island.
- License in Rhode Island directly — endorsement from another state is available, but Rhode Island does not issue multistate compact privileges.
- LPN/LVN certificates (9–12 months) are often the fastest nursing credential in Rhode Island even when our directory has no LPN rows — compare sponsored vocational matches on this page.
- Rhode Island lists 14 entry-level RN programs (ADN/ABSN). Accelerated BSN suits career changers with a prior bachelor's; ADN is the lower-tuition route when you can tolerate waitlists at public colleges.
- A program that starts two months sooner but posts a sub-80% NCLEX pass rate can cost more in retakes and delayed employment than a slightly longer Rhode Island program with stronger outcomes.
Editorial note: A Rhode Island program with an 18-month waitlist can forfeit roughly $74,828 in RN wages versus starting a 9-month pathway sooner — run that math before choosing on tuition alone.
What Students in Rhode Island Should Know
Speed vs. NCLEX outcomes — a real trade-off
Accelerated programs compress the same curriculum into a shorter timeframe — often 40+ hours per week. Before committing, always ask the program for its three-year first-time NCLEX pass rate. A program with a 72% pass rate and 12-month timeline may leave you spending months and hundreds of dollars on retakes, offsetting any time gained.
Public vs. private programs: the cost spectrum
In Rhode Island, program tuition ranges from $8,100 to $209,000 total. Community college ADN programs are the most affordable option — sometimes under $15,000 total — but often have waitlists of 1–2 years. Private accelerated programs have more immediate availability but can exceed $60,000. Factor your total cost of attendance (including living expenses during the program) against your expected starting RN salary when comparing.
Online and hybrid options in Rhode Island
167 programs in Rhode Island offer online or hybrid scheduling. Online programs handle didactic coursework remotely but still require on-site clinical hours. For working adults who cannot commit to full-time on-campus attendance, these can extend the program by a few months while keeping it compatible with part-time employment.
Choosing an Accelerated Nursing Program in Rhode Island
Before choosing the fastest option, weigh these factors in order:
- NCLEX pass rate — look for first-time rates above 85%.
- Clinical placement quality — schools with hospital partnerships provide more reliable rotations.
- Accreditation — CCNE or ACEN required. Unaccredited programs may not qualify for NCLEX or financial aid.
- Total cost — include tuition, fees, and cost of living during the program.
- Timeline to start — fast programs with 18-month waitlists are not actually faster.
Typical duration by pathway
| Pathway | Typical duration | License / credential |
|---|---|---|
| LPN / LVN Certificate | 9–12 months | LPN/LVN — practice under RN supervision |
| ADN (Associate Degree) | 18–24 months | RN license (NCLEX-RN) |
| Accelerated BSN (ABSN) | 12–18 months | RN license (NCLEX-RN) |
| RN-to-BSN | 12–18 months | BSN completion for licensed RNs |
Related Rhode Island Nursing Guides
Fastest Nursing Programs in Rhode Island — FAQ
How fast can I complete a nursing program in Rhode Island?
The fastest accredited nursing programs in Rhode Island can be completed in as little as 9 months. Accelerated BSN programs typically run 12–18 months for students who already hold a non-nursing bachelor's degree.
What is the fastest nursing degree I can get in Rhode Island?
LPN certificate programs are typically the fastest pathway (9–12 months), followed by ADN programs (18–24 months). Accelerated BSN (ABSN) programs can be completed in 12–18 months for career changers with prior college credits.
What is the fastest LPN or LVN program in Rhode Island?
LPN and LVN certificate programs in Rhode Island typically take 9–12 months. Use the sponsored LPN matches on this page to compare vocational schools currently accepting Rhode Island residents.
Which accelerated nursing programs in Rhode Island are accepting students now?
The sponsored program matches at the top of this page show accredited ABSN, ADN, and LPN/LVN programs currently accepting applications from Rhode Island residents. Request free information to compare start dates, tuition, and clinical placement options — no obligation.
How much do registered nurses earn in Rhode Island?
Registered nurses in Rhode Island earn an average of $99,770 per year ($48/hour) according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data. RN employment in Rhode Island is projected to grow 4.3% through 2032.
Are fast nursing programs in Rhode Island accredited?
Yes — every program in our listing is accredited by ACEN or CCNE, or holds state board approval. Accreditation is required to sit for the NCLEX licensing exam and to qualify for federal financial aid.
Do fast nursing programs have lower NCLEX pass rates?
Not necessarily. Many accelerated programs maintain NCLEX pass rates above 90%, particularly those that use rigorous selection criteria and integrated simulation labs. Always ask a program for its three-year NCLEX pass rate before enrolling.
Should I prioritize speed or NCLEX outcomes when choosing a program?
Prioritize NCLEX outcomes first. A program that finishes two months sooner but has a 70% first-time pass rate will likely cost you more time overall than a program with a 95% rate. Speed matters, but not more than your licensing success.
Can I use a Rhode Island nursing license in other states?
Rhode Island is not currently a Nurse Licensure Compact state. You will need to obtain separate licensure for each state where you wish to practice, though endorsement procedures are available if you already hold a license elsewhere.
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