Knowing the cost of the degree program you seek to pursue is a very important part of the groundwork you need to do before you make any final choices. There is a drove of credible tertiary institutions that offer online nursing degrees. Part of your due diligence is identifying accredited institutions that will afford you a legitimate and authoritative online nursing degree at affordable rates.
So, How Much Does an Online Nursing Degree Cost?
Costs of an online nursing degree vary a great deal. The reason for this is that different varieties have different costing frameworks. Another factor is that online nursing degrees come in various specialities — and some specialities are more expensive than others.
Most universities that offer nursing degrees online charge on a credit basis. As of 2025, the credit cost for many schools ranges between $100 and $500, depending on accreditation, degree level, and location.
The other critical factor in the costing of an online degree in nursing is based on the prerequisites for enrolling in certain degree programs as well as the requirements for completing the degree. Usually, the higher the credit requirement, the higher the cost of completing the degree overall.
Most schools require between 90 to 120 credit hours for online nursing degree completion. The object of eLearning is to cut overheads that come with classroom education. eLearners also have no travel costs to worry about. This is why an online nursing degree typically costs less than a conventional campus-based nursing degree.
Online Nursing Degree Cost Range
Program Level | Cost Range (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) | $8,000–$20,000 | Entry-level qualification, often through community colleges |
BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) | $12,000–$35,000 | Most common online RN pathway |
RN to BSN Bridge | $7,000–$20,000 | For already-licensed RNs |
MSN (Master of Science in Nursing) | $18,000–$60,000 | Advanced roles like Nurse Practitioner |
DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) | $30,000–$80,000 | Top-tier online degree for leadership roles |
Leading institutions like Capella University, Walden University, SNHU, and University of Phoenix offer flexible, accredited online nursing programs at various levels — with options for monthly tuition caps, self-paced learning, and employer reimbursement support.
If you are preparing to enrol in an online nursing degree, you also have to plan for additional fees — including textbook fees, enrolment, and registration fees. Some degrees may also attract costs related to applications, background checks, or clinical placement coordination, depending solely on the school and state regulations.
Funding Your Degree: Scholarships and Financial Aid
The good news for those that need financial assistance is that many companies and organisations offer scholarships for online nursing degree programs. Many universities, including University of the People, edX partners, and Coursera Plus institutions, furnish applicants with information on financial aid and scholarship opportunities.
If you’re interested in financial aid, you can fill out forms for requesting grants, loans, or need-based aid that you may be eligible for. As of 2025, FAFSA and many state aid portals allow you to apply online, with real-time eligibility tracking for nursing-specific funding.
Federal Loan Forgiveness & Job Prospects for Nurses
The high demand for degreed nursing professionals in the growing healthcare sector presents various opportunities for students pursuing online nursing degrees. There are also federal and state-level loan forgiveness programs for nursing graduates who work in public health, underserved areas, or qualifying hospitals.
While loan debt may still be a factor, the career return on investment is strong. According to the 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary of a Registered Nurse (RN) is $81,220, with the top 25% earning over $100,000. Entry-level RNs still earn upwards of $60,000 depending on location and certification.
Cost Isn’t Everything: Match the Degree to Your Career Goals
Cost is not the only factor you should consider when choosing an online nursing degree. You also need to check for regional or national accreditation, program outcomes, and course specialisation options. Tertiary institutions have a way of channeling nursing degrees to certain specialities — such as pediatrics, oncology, public health, or gerontology.
Please ensure that you settle for a degree speciality that fits in well with your long-term career goals. Platforms like NursingCAS, U.S. News Online Education Rankings, and university admissions pages are great places to compare curriculum options.