Online Nursing Schools in KY: Reviewing Top Programs
Kentucky residents interested in becoming registered nurses (RNs) can do so conveniently with a flexible online hybrid program. These programs allow students to fit their nursing education into their busy lives as they manage other commitments. This guide explores Kentucky’s top online and hybrid RN programs, addresses common questions, and provides details on licensing, career paths, and salary expectations.
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Identifying Different Types of Online Nursing Programs in Kentucky
Kentucky’s hybrid nursing degrees provide a balanced nursing education course through online study and live clinical practice. Hybrid programs can accommodate a variety of education objectives ranging from the ADN to the MSN level.
Online nursing courses offer the benefit of watching lectures and assignments at one’s own pace, but the nature of the profession does require in-person aspects. Clinical rotations in health care settings offer real-world exposure, and labs and simulations can be done in person. To put it another way, more theoretical content can generally take place online, while practical group and/or patient-centered activities will occur at physical medical facilities.
When selecting an online nursing program, students should consider program length, cost, location of clinical sites, and whether the hybrid delivery mode will meet their learning needs and availability when selecting a program. Take a closer look at the different types of nursing paths available below.
KY Undergraduate Programs
Traditional undergraduate nursing programs most commonly involve the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Both of these programs are aimed at students that are new to the field but wish to practice as registered nurses (RNs). The ADN trains new nurses, and the BSN provides more extended training.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Generally, CNA programs prepare students for success in a range of healthcare environments. This type of program is ideal for those who would like to make a career transition to the medical field relatively quickly. The program below prepares students to take the state certification exam to become certified nursing assistants.
Example: Ky Healthcare Training
- Cost: $675 total
- Length: 75 hours
- Mode: Hybrid
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
LPN programs prepare students to work under the supervision of RNs and doctors in performing direct patient care. These types of programs will require students to pass the NCLEX-PN in order to obtain licensure. On average, LPN courses will take around 10-12 months.
Example: Jefferson Community and Technical College
- Cost: $189/credit hour
- Length: 12 months
- Mode: Hybrid
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
Usually clocking in at around two years, ADN programs offer a faster route to becoming an RN. These programs are for students who want a quicker and more convenient access point into the field. In these programs, students will ultimately be prepared to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain licensure.
Example: Jefferson Community College
- Cost: $186/credit hour (resident), $250/credit hour (non-resident)
- Length: 4 semesters (full-time)
- Mode: Hybrid
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
BSN programs are one of the longer nursing degree options, usually taking students four years to complete. They provide core knowledge and skills that can help springboard students into optional graduate studies down the line. BSNs allow their graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.
Example: University of Louisville
- Cost: $724/credit hour (resident), $1,448/credit hour (non-resident)
- Length: 15 months
- Mode: Hybrid
Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
For those who hold a bachelor’s degree in unrelated field but want to pivot towards nursing or hopeful professionals eager to begin nursing, accelerated BSN (ABSN) programs will be the best option. These programs condense the required coursework into a relatively short amount of time, taking around 15-24 months.
Example: University of Kentucky
- Cost: $714/credit hour (resident), $1,906/credit hour (non-resident)
- Length: 15 months
- Mode: Hybrid
Graduate and Post-Grad Degree Programs in Kentucky
The graduate program in nursing provides registered nurses with a chance to develop their professional careers and specialize in diverse fields. It encompasses the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees. These are intended for nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) who desire to obtain leadership positions, practice at an advanced level, or utilize research programs.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
MSN programs build upon the foundational knowledge obtained during a BSN, advancing an RN’s skills with courses such as healthcare policy, advanced nursing theory, and evidence-based practice. These programs offer specialized training for higher roles such as managing patient cases or advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs).
Example: University of Louisville (MSN)
- Cost: $12,900 per year
- Length: 2 years for full-time students
- Mode: Hybrid
DNP and PhD Doctoral Programs
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is for nurses who want to have leadership positions, while the PhD in Nursing is for those who want to focus their work on research or academia. Nurses in either of these programs are prepared for advanced clinical practice, leadership, and health system improvement.
Example: Eastern Kentucky University
- Cost: $716 per credit hour
- Length: Full-time students can finish the program in three years.
- Mode: Hybrid
Post-Master’s Certificate Programs
Post-master’s certification programs allow current RNs who already hold MSNs to refine their work with a specialization. This path will combine streamlined coursework and clinical fieldwork to build upon their existing abilities and expertise.
Example: Western Kentucky University
- Cost: $12,140 full-time; $607 part-time per credit hour
- Duration: Full-time students can complete the program within two years.
- Modet: Hybrid (online studies with on-campus clinical components).
Bridge Degrees for KY Nurses
Bridge programs offer accelerated pathways for nurses to advance their education and careers. These programs cater to those who already hold a nursing degree and want to achieve a higher level of education, such as a Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). They often build upon previous learning and experience, allowing quicker completion than traditional programs.
LPN to RN and LPN to BSN
LPN to RN and LPN to BSN programs both allow existing licensed practical nurses to advance their skillset by becoming registered nurses. For LPN to BSN programs, the aim is to fulfill the missing requirements needed for a BSN. Students will be eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.
Example: ATA College
- Cost: $300 per credit hour
- Length: 15-Month
- Mode: Hybrid
RN to BSN
RN to BSN programs are ideal for current RNs looking to take their careers to the next level, heighten their income potential, advance to roles with more responsibility, or pursue higher education. Classes will feature topics such as nursing theory, health assessment, and leadership and management.
Example: University of Louisville
- Cost: $375 per credit hour (with potential for significant reduction via portfolio)
- Length: 8-week terms
- Mode: Hybrid
RN to MSN
RN to MSN degree programs are best-suited for RNs who hold an ADN that want to elevate their career prospects without the hassle and extra time of obtaining a separate BSN. Depending on the program, students may earn a BSN along the way as they work towards the MSN.
Example: Midway University
- Cost: $485 per credit hour
- Length: 36 credit hours
- Mode: Hybrid
BSN to DNP
For RNs with BSNs that want to take on more responsibility with leadership positions and higher education, BSN to DNP programs may be the right fit. These programs focus on patient care, clinical decision-making, and healthcare leadership.
Example: Kentucky State University
- Cost: $350 per credit hour
- Length: 72 credit hours, typically taking 3 years
- Mode: 100% online
Direct-Entry MSN
If you’re new to nursing and have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, direct-entry MSN programs are strong options for those who want a career change at an accelerated pace. This type of program is also ideal for those who want to become a nurse practitioner, with curriculum structured to focus on foundational nursing, advanced practice training, and clinical rotations.
Example: Herzing University
- Cost: $825.00 (A fee will be charged each semester for students enrolled in more than two credits)
- Length: 20-24 months
- Mode: Hybrid
Licensing Information & Requirements for Kentucky RNs
To become a licensed nurse, you must graduate from an accredited nursing program and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Additionally, you’ll need to pass a jurisprudence exam, then undergo a criminal background check, and pay the required fees. Continuing education is required for license renewal. Take a look below at more detailed information on the steps you need to take.
1 – Earn an Accredited Nursing Degree
- Find your program: Choose an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at a Kentucky nursing school accredited by the ACEN or CCNE. Consider programs with high NCLEX pass rates, such as those at the University of Kentucky or Northern Kentucky University.
- Graduate: Complete all coursework and graduate from your chosen program.
- Background check: Undergo a criminal background check as required by the state.
- Jurisprudence exam: Pass the Kentucky nursing jurisprudence exam.
2 – Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
- Apply for the NCLEX: Apply to take the NCLEX-RN exam through the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).
- Take the NCLEX: Schedule and take the NCLEX-RN exam (be sure to prepare well using resources such as our beginner’s guide to the NCLEX to pass it on your first try).
- Retake if Needed: If you don’t pass the first time, review your Candidate Performance Report (CPR) and retake the exam after the required waiting period.
3 – Apply for Kentucky Licensure
- Apply Online: Go to the Kentucky.gov of Nursing website and complete the online application. This is generally the fastest and easiest option.
- Pay the Fee: You can pay the application fee online or with your mailed application. Paper applications may incur an extra processing fee.
- Wait for Review: Application processing can take 7-14 business days or up to three months if it requires further review.
- Complete Any Additional Steps: You may need to fulfill other requirements, such as passing an exam or submitting fingerprints. Keep in mind that RN licensure requirements vary by state.
4 – Maintain and Renew Licensure
- Complete CE Hours: Earn 14 hours of continuing education, including at least seven from a KBN-approved provider. Explore options like courses, research projects, precepting, or publishing.
- Fulfill One-Time Requirements: Ensure you’ve met the one-time requirements for topics like Alzheimer’s, domestic violence, and suicide prevention.
- Report CE Activities: Use CE Broker to track and report your completed continuing education.
- Submit Renewal: Apply for renewal through the Kentucky Online License System.
- Pay Renewal Fee: Submit the required renewal fee to finalize the process.
5 – Pursue Specialty Certifications (Optional)
- Choose a Specialty: Choose a nursing specialty that matches your interests and career goals, like acute care, women’s health, or education.
- Meet Eligibility Requirements: Check that you meet the education and work experience prerequisites for your certification.
- Prepare for the Exam: Study relevant materials and consider taking a prep course to increase your chances of success.
- Take the Certification Exam: Schedule the exam for your chosen specialty.
- Maintain Your Certification: Fulfill any continuing education or recertification requirements to keep your certification current.
KY Salary and Career Details for Registered Nurses
Kentucky's RN job market is promising and is projected to grow by 6.6% over the coming years, adding 3,100 new jobs, with approximately 2,940 openings annually. This is slightly above the national projected growth rate of 5.7%. This growth indicates a strong demand for nurses, making it a promising field to enter.
Nurses' salaries vary across the state, with the median salary for RNs in Kentucky at $77,830. For those in entry-level positions (10th percentile), the salary is around $61,520, while experienced nurses (90th percentile) can earn up to $101,770. Salaries are higher in urban areas like Lexington-Fayette, where the median is $80,490, compared to Bowling Green, where it is lower at $70,160. These figures can help aspiring nurses evaluate potential earnings based on location and experience, providing guidance on where to focus their career efforts.
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $61,520 | $77,830 | $101,770 |
| Bowling Green, KY | $54,170 | $70,160 | $83,090 |
| Elizabethtown-Fort Knox, KY | $59,030 | $74,130 | $103,600 |
| Lexington-Fayette, KY | $64,070 | $80,490 | $101,860 |
| Louisville/Jefferson County, KY-IN | $62,140 | $79,260 | $103,490 |
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 |
| Kentucky | 47,300 | 50,400 | 3,100 | 6.60% | 2,940 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Ranking Kentucky’s Best Online Nursing Programs
Northern Kentucky University
Highland Heights, Kentucky
Why We Selected Northern Kentucky University:
- The program offers fully online courses, providing flexibility for working nurses.
- Northern Kentucky University's nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
- The RN to BSN program features pay-by-the-course tuition, offering budget-friendly options for students.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$10,008
- Average Institutional Aid$7,312
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course69%
- % of Students Receiving an Award45%
- Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
University of Louisville
Louisville, Kentucky
Why We Selected University of Louisville:
- The University of Louisville's BSN program offers tuition reimbursement and educational assistance programs.
- The program features state-of-the-art simulation laboratories with certified simulation faculty for enhanced learning.
- It provides opportunities for collaboration with faculty having diverse research interests, enhancing academic and professional growth.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$12,174
- Average Institutional Aid$9,083
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course60%
- % of Students Receiving an Award58%
- Student/Faculty Ratio13/1
Eastern Kentucky University
Richmond, Kentucky
Why We Selected Eastern Kentucky University:
- Eastern Kentucky University offers flexible online learning formats tailored to working nurses' schedules.
- EKU provides specialized career tracks like Rural Health Family Nurse Practitioner for advanced practice nursing.
- The program benefits from nationally accredited status and expert faculty guidance for professional development.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$9,452
- Average Institutional Aid$6,669
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course71%
- % of Students Receiving an Award44%
- Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
Morehead State University
Morehead, Kentucky
Why We Selected Morehead State University:
- The program offers a seamless RN-MSN track, allowing students to take graduate courses while completing their BSN.
- The MSN-FNP program provides hands-on clinical practicum placements, enhancing practical skills in real-world settings.
- Morehead State University's nursing programs are accredited by prestigious bodies like CCNE and ACEN, ensuring quality education.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$9,082
- Average Institutional Aid$5,751
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course54%
- % of Students Receiving an Award46%
- Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
University of Kentucky
Lexington, Kentucky
Why We Selected University of Kentucky:
- The program offers flexible scheduling with 7-week blocks, allowing students to work full-time while studying.
- Clinical hours can be completed locally, providing convenience for students in various locations.
- Students are eligible for financial aid and scholarships, enhancing affordability and accessibility.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$11,247
- Average Institutional Aid$10,050
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course37%
- % of Students Receiving an Award66%
- Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
Western Kentucky University
Bowling Green, Kentucky
Why We Selected Western Kentucky University:
- The WKU BSN program offers supervised clinical experiences in diverse settings like hospitals and nursing homes.
- The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring high educational standards.
- Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam, facilitating licensure as registered nurses nationwide.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$10,992
- Average Institutional Aid$5,928
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course55%
- % of Students Receiving an Award48%
- Student/Faculty Ratio18/1
Thomas More University
Crestview Hills, Kentucky
Why We Selected Thomas More University:
- The RN to BSN program at Thomas More University offers an accelerated completion option in as few as 18 months.
- The program boasts a 100% NCLEX pass rate for graduating nursing students, ensuring high clinical competence.
- Thomas More University's nursing program features faculty with extensive clinical experience, providing practical insights and mentorship.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$33,060
- Average Institutional Aid$18,404
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course52%
- % of Students Receiving an Award53%
- Student/Faculty Ratio13/1
University of Pikeville
Pikeville, Kentucky
Why We Selected University of Pikeville:
- The University of Pikeville's Elliott School of Nursing offers a state-of-the-art simulation laboratory for realistic training.
- The program provides an LPN-to-RN bridge option, allowing licensed practical nurses to advance their careers quickly.
- The RN-BSN program is fully online, enabling working nurses to pursue higher education flexibly.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$22,500
- Average Institutional Aid$11,731
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course53%
- % of Students Receiving an Award27%
- Student/Faculty Ratio13/1
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
