Online Nursing Schools in AL: Your Guide to Top Programs
Whether you’re starting your nursing journey or looking to advance your career, Alabama offers a range of online and hybrid nursing programs to fit your goals. From RN and BSN programs to advanced degrees and certificates, EduMed will help you explore top nursing schools in Alabama, covering program options, costs, admission requirements, and career opportunities. Keep reading to find the right program for your needs and take the next step in your nursing career.
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Profiles of Top Online Nursing Schools
If you’re wondering how to become a registered nurse (RN), you’ll be glad to know there are many paths to a nursing career, regardless of your experience. Whether you choose to start as a certified nursing assistant (CNA) or go straight for your Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Alabama has many high-quality programs that can help you get there.
Many nursing schools offer flexible learning opportunities through hybrid or online programs. Although clinicals for online students generally require in-person attendance, most coursework for these types of programs is online.
When choosing the right program for you, consider your long-term goals and compare each option’s cost, length, and requirements. Below, we’ve described some of the different degrees to choose from and an example of some of the best nursing programs in Alabama.
Online Undergraduate Degree Programs
An undergraduate degree program might be the right choice if you are just beginning your nursing career. Depending on your chosen path, you can become a CNA, licensed practical nurse (LPN), or RN through an undergraduate program. Many programs only require a high school diploma or GED to get started.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
CNA programs prepare you to be a vital part of a healthcare team and take the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam required to be licensed as a CNA in Alabama. These programs are the first step to becoming a CNA, and many are offered at community colleges or vocational schools.
Example: Northwest Shoals Community College – Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Northwest Shoals Community College in Muscle Shoals offers a hybrid CNA program that takes only a semester to complete. All of the lectures for this program can be completed online, while the clinicals, assessments, and testing can be completed in person. Students don’t need a high school diploma or GED to apply for this course.
- Cost: $568
- Length: 4-8 weeks
- Mode: Hybrid
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
LPNs are nurses who are qualified to work in a variety of healthcare settings. To become an LPN in Alabama, you have to complete an accredited program, many of which are offered in online or hybrid formats. You’ll take some online courses in these programs while participating in labs and clinicals on-site.
Example: Herzing University – Practical Nursing Program
Herzing University offers a flexible and affordable LPN program for aspiring nurses in Alabama. During this program, students will take essential coursework that prepares them to tackle the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) and receive their state license. General education courses are available online, while core courses are on campus.
- Cost: $19,425
- Length: 12 months
- Mode: Hybrid
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
An ADN program provides the coursework and clinical training needed to qualify for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN.) Vocational schools and community colleges in Alabama typically offer ADN programs. Earning an ADN degree usually requires two years of full-time study.
Example: Northwest Shoals Community College – Associate Degree Nursing Program
Northwest Shoals CC offers a hybrid associate degree nursing program that blends online and in-person instruction to make it accessible for more students. In this program, students will complete most of their nursing theory coursework online while attending lab instruction and clinicals on campus. The NCLEX-RN pass rate for this program is 88.57%.
- Cost: $170/credit hour for Alabama residents, $299/credit hour for non-residents
- Length: 5 semesters
- Mode: Hybrid
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
A traditional BSN program prepares students with little or no college or nursing experience to become RNs. These programs typically require four years of full-time study and are offered by almost all college and university nursing schools. Nurses who earn a BSN instead of an ADN are generally offered higher salaries and more professional opportunities.
Example: Herzing University – Pre-licensure BSN Program
Herzing University offers a pre-licensure program for students who want to become an RN. In three years or less, you can complete your BSN and gain the experience necessary to start your healthcare career. All courses in this program are offered online, while students attend on-site clinicals and three intensives during the program.
- Cost: $755/credit hour
- Length: 36 months
- Mode: Hybrid
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
ABSN programs offer the fastest route to obtaining a BSN for students with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees by allowing them to transfer general education credits from their previous degree programs. These programs are essentially a quicker way for someone with a college degree to change to a nursing career. ABSN programs can take anywhere from 15 months to two years.
Example: University of North Alabama – Accelerated BSN Program
The ABSN program at the University of North Alabama offers flexible online courses and weekend clinicals. This accelerated program is perfect for people completing their second degree alongside other responsibilities. Students who graduate from the program will earn their BSN and be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN.
- Cost: $340/hour
- Length: 15 months
- Mode: Hybrid
Graduate and Post-Graduate Degree Programs
While there are plenty of opportunities for RNs in healthcare, many nurses decide to further their career and education at some point. Graduate and post-graduate degree programs are designed for nurses who want to advance their careers or specialize in a particular area. Some programs lead to a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and a PhD in Nursing.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Nursing master’s degree seekers with RN licenses and bachelor’s degrees can opt for a traditional MSN program. The standard MSN pathway is open to students with a nursing BSN, while the direct-entry MSN pathway is for those with bachelor’s degrees in non-nursing majors. Degree completion times are 18 months to four years.
Example: University of South Alabama – Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
For nurses who want to obtain a master’s degree, the University of South Alabama offers an MSN program where all of the coursework is offered online. University of South Alabama’s program is an excellent option for nurses who want to eventually earn a doctorate since four of the required courses are doctoral-level.
- Cost: $594/credit hour
- Length: 16-24 months
- Mode: Hybrid
DNP and PhD Doctoral Programs
A DNP is designed for students interested in transitioning to a leadership position or career in healthcare administration. The PhD in Nursing is for students seeking careers in academics or research. Most DNP students complete their degrees in three to four years, while nursing PhD students typically take four to five or sometimes up to seven years.
Example: The University of Alabama in Huntsville – Doctor of Nursing Practice
The University of Alabama in Huntsville offers a post-master and post-bachelor DNP pathway within its advanced nursing program. When completing doctoral-level courses, the program of study is customized to each student to build on their knowledge and prepare them for more advanced or specialty roles.
- Cost: $432/credit hour
- Length: Two years
- Mode: Online
Post-Master’s Certificate Programs
Post-graduate certificates in nursing provide MSN (and sometimes DNP or nursing PhD) degree-holders with an efficient and affordable way to add a specialization and expand their professional nursing practices. Post-graduate nursing certificates come in various specializations, including family nurse practitioner (FNP), nurse anesthesia, and nurse educator.
Example: University of South Alabama – Online Post-Graduate Certificate
If you’ve already earned your MSN and want to specialize in a different area, the online post-graduate certificate program at the University of South Alabama is for you. This program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and offers numerous specializations for students.
- Cost: $423-$846/credit hour (residency dependent)
- Length: Two years
- Mode: Online
Bridge Degree Programs
Many nurses who choose to advance their education or career in the healthcare field accomplish this through a bridge program. These degree programs are not only for practical nurses who want to become RNs but also for nurses who want to gain a BSN, MSN, or DNP.
LPN to RN and LPN to BSN
LPN to RN programs are designed to provide a path for current LPNs to advance their careers without starting over. LPNs can transfer their experience and education to either an LPN to ADN or LPN to BSN program. Many online bridge programs allow LPNs to qualify for their RN license.
Example: University of South Alabama – LPN to BSN Pathway
For students with a current LPN license in Alabama, this pathway program is a flexible option for becoming a BSN. The entire program offers a hybrid format so students can continue to work while they complete their coursework. This school has also partnered with the USA College of Nursing to provide a program for students living in Alabama.
- Cost: $423/credit hour for in-state students, $846/credit hour for out-of-state students
- Length: Four semesters
- Mode: Hybrid
RN to BSN
RN to BSN programs allow students with a current RN license to apply their credit hours toward earning a BSN. These programs usually require one year of full-time or two years of part-time study, and many nursing schools in Alabama offer online RN to BSN programs for working students.
Example: Troy University – Online RN to BSN Degree Program
Troy University’s online RN to BSN program is for RNs who want to continue working while pursuing a BSN. Students attend classes online and can earn their BSN in 18 weeks if they attend full-time. This program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and recognized by the Alabama Board of Nursing.
- Cost: $424/credit hour
- Length: Two to four semesters
- Mode: Online
RN to MSN
An MSN is for students interested in launching or advancing their nursing careers into advanced nursing practice, teaching, or other leadership roles. One of the most popular pathways is an RN to MSN program designed for current RNs without a BSN. Admission often requires current RN licensure and an ADN.
Example: The University of Alabama – RN to BSN/MSN Nurse Executive
The RN to MSN program at the University of Alabama is an accelerated option for experienced RNs who want to work towards a master’s degree. Completing this program prepares RNs to lead a team of nurses and pursue more leadership roles.
- Cost: $440/credit hour
- Length: 50-56 credit hours
- Mode: Online
BSN to DNP
One of the many ways nurses can advance their careers is by earning a doctorate. BSN to DNP programs allow students to bypass the MSN degree and earn their advanced degree in nursing to prepare for numerous leadership roles within the nursing field.
Example: University of Mobile – BSN to DNP
At the University of Mobile, the BSN to DNP program is offered as a hybrid with online courses and three on-campus intensives. This private university has state-of-the-art simulation labs and experienced faculty members who focus on mentoring students and preparing them for the next stage in their careers.
- Cost: $735/credit hour
- Length: Four to five years
- Mode: Hybrid
Direct-Entry MSN
For non-nursing students who want to switch to a nursing career, direct-entry online MSN programs offer a pathway to obtain a master’s degree. This type of program prepares students who have already earned a bachelor’s degree in another field to work in healthcare as an RN or Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN).
Example: Herzing University – Online MSN Direct Entry
The online MSN Direct Entry program at Herzing University’s Alabama locations is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Higher Learning Commission. Students participate in clinicals in-person at approved sites in their community, while 100% of the classes in this program are online.
- Cost: $775/credit hour
- Length: 20 months
- Mode: Hybrid
Alabama’s Nursing Licensure Steps & Requirements
Working as a registered nurse in the U.S. requires obtaining an RN license through your state’s or jurisdiction’s board of nursing. Aspiring RNs must apply for licensure through the Alabama Board of Nursing (ABN). Below are the steps to follow to become an RN in Alabama.
1 – Earn an Accredited Nursing Degree
The first step to becoming an RN in Alabama is receiving your degree from an accredited nursing school. There are numerous nursing degree programs from which to choose, including nursing associate (ADN, AASN, ASN), LPN-to-RN, traditional BSN, and accelerated BSN programs.
After determining whether an in-person or online program is right for you, research accredited RN programs in Alabama, paying attention to cost, length, and prerequisites.
2 – Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
After completing your accredited nursing program in Alabama, you qualify to take the NCLEX-RN exam. This exam tests your knowledge within eight categories to ensure you’re ready to enter the healthcare field as an RN.
Nursing programs are designed to prepare you for the exam, but it’s still important to find study strategies that work for you so that you’re fully prepared to pass the NCLEX-RN.
3 – Apply for State Licensure
Once you’ve passed the NCLEX-RN, it’s time to complete the electronic ABN electronic license application. Before you apply, be sure you meet all the licensure requirements for Alabama.
The application process includes providing your social security number, proof of citizenship or non-citizen legal status, and a fingerprint card. Most programs in Alabama also require you to submit your Test of Essential Academic Scores (TEAS) exam scores.
4 – Maintain and Renew Licensure
After you’ve obtained your RN license, it’s up to you to maintain it. Alabama RN licenses must be renewed online every two years between Sept. 1 and Dec. 31 of each even-numbered year, regardless of when the license was first issued.
License renewal requirements include completing 24 continuing education hours every two years and paying the renewal fee. Renewal fees and required CE hours are prorated for first-time renewals.
5 – Pursue Specialty Certifications (Optional)
One of the best parts about being an RN is there’s always room for growth. Earning specialty certifications is one of the many ways to grow in your nursing career. These certifications allow you to specialize in a specific area, such as diabetes management or forensic nursing.
Each certification has its requirements, typically involving taking a course or exam. You can view a list of certifications and determine what experience is needed to qualify.
Registered Nurse Salaries in Alabama
Now that you know a little more about what to expect when pursuing an RN career in Alabama, what can you expect once that career actually gets started? As far as job outlook, Alabama does sit below the national rate in terms of RN jobs growth, with openings growing at a rate of 4.4% compared to the national rate of 5.6%. However, you can better your chances of snagging one of these available roles via pursuing a specialty or achieving a higher level of education than the minimum necessary. Once you do find an RN role, you can expect a salary somewhere near the statewide median of $65,900 (Alabama RNs in the 10th percentile make around $50,000 or less, while RNs in the 90th percentile can make over $92,000 per year). For the highest salary possible, follow the money to Montgomery or Birmingham, where median salaries are highest, at over $70,000. In contrast, the lowest median salaries are found around Gadsden and Florence, at about $60,000. Find more salary and job outlook details below.
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $50,310 | $65,900 | $92,870 |
| Anniston-Oxford-Jacksonville, AL | $44,190 | $66,100 | $84,660 |
| Auburn-Opelika, AL | $51,850 | $63,580 | $99,510 |
| Birmingham-Hoover, AL | $57,070 | $71,520 | $98,660 |
| Daphne-Fairhope-Foley, AL | $48,570 | $69,040 | $83,760 |
| Decatur, AL | $47,800 | $64,420 | $83,250 |
| Dothan, AL | $48,280 | $62,640 | $82,860 |
| Florence-Muscle Shoals, AL | $45,800 | $62,480 | $79,250 |
| Gadsden, AL | $46,240 | $61,360 | $82,800 |
| Huntsville, AL | $50,810 | $63,480 | $86,160 |
| Mobile, AL | $51,200 | $65,190 | $82,050 |
| Montgomery, AL | $48,420 | $74,430 | $115,980 |
| Tuscaloosa, AL | $51,330 | $66,180 | $97,590 |
Source: Registered Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area ↕ | Curr. Jobs ↕ | Proj. Jobs ↕ | New Jobs ↕ | Growth % ↕ | Avg. Ann. Openings ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 3,172,500 | 3,349,900 | 177,400 | 5.60% | 193,100 |
| Alabama | 51,980 | 54,290 | 2,310 | 4.40% | 3,090 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Ranking Alabama’s Best Online Nursing Programs
Distance learning is no longer a novelty in Alabama’s nursing degrees and certificate programs. When determining what programs are of the highest quality, we look at various criteria, including accreditation, availability of resources, and opportunities for online learning. To help you find an online program that works for you, we’ve created a list of Alabama’s best online nursing programs for this school year.
University of North Alabama
Florence, Alabama
Why We Selected University of North Alabama:
- The University of North Alabama's nursing program offers faculty with real-world experience.
- The program provides flexible course schedules and competitive pricing for students.
- UNA offers both traditional and accelerated BSN options to cater to different student needs.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$9,600
- Average Institutional Aid$7,366
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course70%
- % of Students Receiving an Award47%
- Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
Spring Hill College
Mobile, Alabama
Why We Selected Spring Hill College:
- Stanford Health Care's nursing program integrates Jean Watson's Caring Science for holistic patient care.
- The program offers comprehensive professional development opportunities through transition-to-practice initiatives and fellowships.
- Stanford Health Care fosters a collaborative environment with strong academic partnerships and community outreach.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$21,100
- Average Institutional Aid$31,002
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course62%
- % of Students Receiving an Award56%
- Student/Faculty Ratio11/1
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, Alabama
Why We Selected University of Alabama at Birmingham:
- UAB offers innovative technology like Lightboard for engaging online learning experiences.
- UAB's online programs are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- UAB provides financial aid options, including scholarships and grants, to support students' educational pursuits.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$8,568
- Average Institutional Aid$9,520
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course70%
- % of Students Receiving an Award63%
- Student/Faculty Ratio19/1
University of Alabama in Huntsville
Huntsville, Alabama
Why We Selected University of Alabama in Huntsville:
- The University of Alabama in Huntsville's nursing program offers a Joint PhD program with The University of Alabama, enhancing research opportunities.
- The program utilizes advanced simulation tools like telehealth robots, enhancing practical learning experiences.
- The College of Nursing provides comprehensive career services and mentorship, supporting students' professional development.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$9,730
- Average Institutional Aid$9,643
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course65%
- % of Students Receiving an Award57%
- Student/Faculty Ratio19/1
Troy University
Troy, Alabama
Why We Selected Troy University:
- Troy University's nursing program emphasizes hands-on clinical training through a mandatory preceptorship.
- The program focuses on developing strong leadership and patient advocacy skills among students.
- Troy University offers various nursing degrees, including ASN, BSN, MSN, and DNP options for career advancement.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$9,312
- Average Institutional Aid$8,336
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course60%
- % of Students Receiving an Award45%
- Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
Auburn University
Auburn, Alabama
Why We Selected Auburn University:
- The program offers accelerated completion options, allowing students to earn their BSN in just one year.
- Faculty expertise and support provide students with a comprehensive learning environment.
- The program includes specialized career tracks, such as nurse leadership and administration roles.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$10,080
- Average Institutional Aid$9,799
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course46%
- % of Students Receiving an Award79%
- Student/Faculty Ratio20/1
Jacksonville State University
Jacksonville, Alabama
Why We Selected Jacksonville State University:
- JSU offers a 100% online RN-BSN program for accelerated career advancement.
- The program includes specialized tracks like Family Nurse Practitioner and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care.
- JSU's nursing program utilizes a state-of-the-art high fidelity simulation lab for enhanced learning.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$9,720
- Average Institutional Aid$4,765
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course65%
- % of Students Receiving an Award41%
- Student/Faculty Ratio19/1
Samford University
Birmingham, Alabama
Why We Selected Samford University:
- Samford University offers a high NCLEX-RN pass rate, exceeding national averages.
- The program provides excellent clinical opportunities in major health care facilities.
- Samford's nursing school is a designated Center of Excellence by the National League for Nursing.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$34,410
- Average Institutional Aid$18,614
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course24%
- % of Students Receiving an Award76%
- Student/Faculty Ratio12/1
Auburn University at Montgomery
Montgomery, Alabama
Why We Selected Auburn University at Montgomery:
- The program offers a 100% passing rate on the NCLEX exam for BSN graduates.
- The online RN to BSN program provides flexible scheduling to accommodate working nurses.
- AUM's nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$7,992
- Average Institutional Aid$3,594
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course55%
- % of Students Receiving an Award32%
- Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
University of South Alabama
Mobile, Alabama
Why We Selected University of South Alabama:
- The University of South Alabama's nursing program offers flexible online courses for working students.
- The program provides innovative quality nursing education with a focus on practice excellence and leadership.
- The College of Nursing offers diverse clinical opportunities through partnerships with local hospitals and clinics.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$8,256
- Average Institutional Aid$5,183
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course53%
- % of Students Receiving an Award44%
- Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘24-’25 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves.
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic counseling on campus and/or online.
- The existence of career placement services on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area. Because exact numbers change often and can be difficult to verify, we use a range-based scoring system to represent this category with laptop icons.
- % in Online Ed. – Percent of total students taking at least one distance education class.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time, as self-reported by the school.
- % Receiving Award – Percent of full-time, first-time students receiving an award in 6 years.
- Avg. Inst. Aid – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2024
