Online Nursing Courses: ADN Programs & Requirements

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) Online

* Prerequisites: High school diploma or equivalent, some colleges may require additional prerequisites such as anatomy and physiology, chemistry, and microbiology.

* Time to Complete: Typically two years of full-time study.

* Curriculum: Includes courses in nursing foundations, medical-surgical nursing, maternal-child nursing, mental health nursing, nutrition, and pharmacology.

* Clinical Experience: Requires a minimum of 300 hours of clinical experience in a supervised healthcare setting.

* RN Licensure: Graduates are eligible to apply for licensure as a registered nurse (RN) in the state where they live.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Online

* Prerequisites: Associate degree in nursing (ADN) or equivalent, some colleges may require additional prerequisites such as statistics, research, and English composition.

* Time to Complete: Typically two years of full-time study.

* Curriculum: Includes courses in nursing leadership, community health nursing, research, and evidence-based practice.

* Clinical Experience: Requires a minimum of 500 hours of clinical experience in a supervised healthcare setting.

* RN Licensure: Graduates are eligible to apply for licensure as a registered nurse (RN) in the state where they live.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Online

* Prerequisites: Bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) or equivalent, some colleges may require additional prerequisites such as statistics, research, and English composition.

* Time to Complete: Typically two to three years of part-time study.

* Curriculum: Includes courses in advanced nursing practice, nursing research, leadership, and healthcare policy.

* Clinical Experience: May include some clinical experience, depending on the specific MSN program.

* RN Licensure: Graduates are eligible to apply for licensure as a registered nurse (RN) in the state where they live.

In addition to these degree programs, many colleges and universities offer online certificates and individual courses in nursing. These can be a great way to earn continuing education credits or update your nursing skills.