Online Nursing Schools in ME: Searching for Top Programs
Did you know that Maine is currently experiencing a nursing shortage? If you want to break into this high-demand healthcare field, landing an entry-level nursing position can take as little as six months. This guide will help you find some of the state’s best online nursing schools with top programs, experienced faculty, and partnerships for hands-on learning. Later, we detail educational opportunities, state licensing requirements, and career paths. Keep reading for a high-level overview of how to become a nurse in Maine.
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Maine’s Online Nursing Programs Uncovered
If you are ready to become a nurse in Maine, there are plenty of nursing degrees to choose from. Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is the first step into nursing and focuses on basic care. Meanwhile, registered nursing (RN) programs — which include two and four-year degree options — are designed for more advanced care. For experienced nurses looking to enter leadership positions, a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), or a PhD in Nursing is generally required.
Most of these programs include the increasingly popular online learning format, often combined with in-person clinical requirements. But how do these programs work? Typically, theory classes and other coursework are online, while clinical rotations in healthcare settings are in-person.
When choosing a program, you should consider its accreditation status, delivery mode, clinical placement locations, state licensing requirements, and career goals. Researching programs carefully is the first step. To help point you in the right direction, we’ve outlined the best options in Maine below, along with licensing requirements and career pathways.
Maine’s Online Undergraduate Nursing Degrees
Undergraduate nursing programs offer a starting point for your nursing career, with options to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or a Registered Nurse (RN). These programs typically offer an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). If you already have a bachelor’s degree in another field, an Accelerated BSN program can fast-track your path to becoming an RN.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is a great starting point if you are interested in a healthcare career and want to get started as soon as possible. As a CNA, you’ll assist patients with daily needs and positively impact their hospital experience. Online CNA programs make it easy to get started, with some offering two-week and four-week programs, while more comprehensive programs may take up to a year to complete.
Example: MaineHealth Maine Medical Center
- Cost: Free
- Length: 7 weeks
- Mode: In-Person
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
Online and hybrid licensed practical nurse (LPN) programs combine online learning with hands-on training. Students start by completing general education courses online before attending in-person nursing classes and gaining practical clinical experience. This approach gives you flexibility while helping you develop the skills and knowledge needed to become an LPN.
Example: LNA Health Careers
- Cost: $25,000
- Length: 45 weeks
- Mode: Hybrid
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
Online ADN programs, commonly known as Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) programs, prepare graduates to take the NCLEX-RN exam and become licensed registered nurses. Most schools have a two-year timeline involving online classes and on-site clinical training. Graduating with your ADN allows you to become an RN in less time than a BSN program; however, you may qualify for fewer jobs and get paid slightly less than RNs with a four-year degree.
Example: Beal University
- Cost: $32,751–$45,417 a year
- Length: 18 months
- Mode: Hybrid
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs are designed for students transitioning from high school, transferring from another institution, or returning to academia as non-traditional students. These programs typically take four years to complete. You’ll gain the knowledge and skills needed to become a registered nurse and sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.
Example: University of Maine Fort Kent
- Cost: $9,420 a year
- Length: 120 credits
- Mode: In-person
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
Online and hybrid ABSN programs are for students with bachelor’s degrees in a non-nursing subject looking to become registered nurses. These programs are shorter than traditional BSN programs because you will not need to fulfill the general education requirements that transfer over from your bachelor’s degree. The curriculum focuses on core nursing principles and hands-on training and can be completed in one year or less for full-time students.
Example: Saint Joseph’s College of Maine
- Cost: $900 per credit hour
- Length: 15 months
- Mode: Hybrid
Graduate and Post-Graduate Nurse Programs
Graduate nursing programs take your nursing career to the next level! These programs, typically offering Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degrees, are designed for nurses who already hold a BSN and want to become specialized or pursue leadership roles.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
If you want to become a midwife, nurse practitioner, or nurse anesthetist, you must first graduate from a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program. You can also choose to specialize in a chosen field, opening doors to advanced practice roles, leadership positions, and diverse career opportunities. Traditional MSNs take around two years to complete, although this will vary based on program and course load.
Example: Saint Joseph’s College of Maine
- Cost: $28,686 and $33,792; however, these amounts do not include expenses for textbooks, clinical fees, or online fees.
- Length: The full-time program lasts 2 years and 3 months, while the part-time program takes between 3.5 and 4 years, depending on the track.
- Mode: Online
DNP and PhD Doctoral Programs
If you want to shape the future of nursing, online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and PhD in Nursing programs are the pinnacle of nursing education. DNP programs focus on the practical application of nursing principles via education, consultancy, leadership, and patient care. Meanwhile, nursing PhD programs focus on the practical application of research to improve quality of care, patient outcomes, and more.
Example: University of Southern Maine
- Cost: $601 per credit hour
- Length: 30-33 credit hours
- Mode: Online
Post-Master’s Certificate Programs
Earning a post-master’s nursing certificate can strengthen your expertise and credentials, often in less time than a DNP or PhD. Many graduates become certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), specializing in gerontology, oncology, mental health, acute care, and more. Program length and cost will vary based on your previous education and chosen certificate specialization (if any).
Example: Husson University
- Cost: $2,046 per 3-credit course
- Length: 121–122 credits
- Mode: Online
Maine’s Bridge Degree Programs
Bridge programs offer a streamlined path for nurses to advance their careers. These programs, such as LPN-to-RN or RN-to-BSN, are designed for working nurses who want to level up their credentials and unlock new opportunities while continuing their professional practice.
LPN to RN and LPN to BSN
Practicing LPNs can choose from two types of bridge programs — LPN to ADN/RN and LPN to BSN. While LPN to ADN programs generally take two years or less, the LPN to BSN track typically takes two full years. Both programs will prepare you to become an RN; however, BSN programs have a more comprehensive curriculum and qualify you for more roles and higher pay.
Example: The University of Maine at Augusta
- Cost: $458-$605 per credit hour (residency dependent)
- Length: Four years
- Mode: Hybrid
RN to BSN
RN-to-BSN programs require you to hold an ADN/ASN and a current, unencumbered RN license. These programs are generally taken by RNs who want to increase their pay and career opportunities by building upon their associate degree education. These programs can be completed in one year but may take longer, depending on the school and course load.
Example: Maine College of Health Professions
- Cost: $22,475
- Length: Less than 18 months
- Mode: Online
RN to MSN
Online RN to MSN bridge programs allow you to earn your Master of Science in Nursing without needing a BSN. Many working RNs choose these bridge programs over RN to BSN bridge programs, as the increase in pay and opportunities will be far more significant. Graduating with an MSN qualifies graduates for leadership roles in anesthesia, midwifery, and more.
Example: University of Maine at Fort Kent
- Cost: $500 per credit hour
- Length: 15 months
- Mode: Online
Direct-Entry MSN
Are you looking to change careers and become a nurse? Online Direct-Entry MSN programs allow students holding bachelors in non-nursing subjects to switch majors. As bachelor’s grads have already earned general education credits when pursuing their undergraduate degree, these programs aim to build a strong foundation of nursing knowledge. They often have more intensive clinical requirements to compensate for students’ lack of previous nursing experience.
Example: University of Southern Maine
- Cost: $459-$1,390 per credit hour (residency dependent)
- Length: 7 weeks to 12 months
- Mode: Online
Maine Nursing Licensure: A Step-by-Step Guide
To become a registered nurse in Maine, you must complete an approved nursing program and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. You must also submit an online application with the required fee and documentation, including a background check and fingerprints. Maine is a Nurse Licensure Compact state, so if you’re licensed in another compact state and not making Maine your primary residence, you don’t need a separate Maine license. Remember to renew your license every two years on your birthday.
1 – Earn an Accredited Nursing Degree
- Complete the admission requirements for the program you choose
- Complete the required courses
- Complete clinical experiences
- Pass the NCLEX exam
- Complete a criminal background check
- Apply for a nursing license in Maine
2 – Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
- Graduate: Complete an approved nursing program.
- Apply: Submit your application to the Maine State Board of Nursing, including transcripts, fingerprints, and a recent photo.
- Prepare: Thoroughly study for the NCLEX-RN exam using study guides, practice questions, and review courses.
- Pass the NCLEX-RN: Maine has a high first-time pass rate, so focus on your preparation! If you don’t pass on your first attempt, you can reapply after a waiting period.
3 – Apply for State Nursing Licensure
- Complete the application: Understand all requirements. Find the application on the Maine Board of Licensure website and complete it.
- Gather documents: Ensure you have documentation of passing the required exam, official transcripts, proof of any graduate medical education, and specialty certifications.
- Pay fees: Fees vary by license type (e.g., a medical license application may cost $600, with additional fees for the uniform application and jurisprudence exam).
- Need help? Contact the Maine Board of Licensure at (207) 287-3602 or by fax at (207) 287-6590
4 – Maintain and Renew Licensure
- Go online: Visit the website of the relevant professional licensing board.
- Complete the application: Log in to your account and complete the renewal application, including CE details.
- Pay the fee: Submit the renewal fee electronically.
- Important:
- Renew online before your license expires.
- Keep your contact information updated.
- Meet all CE requirements for your profession.
5 – Pursue Specialty Certifications (Optional)
- Choose your APRN specialty: Decide on an area like Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Anesthetist, Nurse Midwife, or Clinical Nurse Specialist.
- Complete an APRN program: Find a program accredited by the Maine State Board of Nursing.
- Pass the national certification exam: Take and pass the exam specific to your chosen specialty.
- Apply for specialty designation: Apply to the Maine State Board of Nursing to add your new specialty to your RN license.
Maine’s Registered Nurse Salary Trends
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | $63,720 | $86,070 | $132,680 |
| Maine | $64,600 | $81,610 | $107,240 |
| Bangor, ME | $63,800 | $80,520 | $96,010 |
| Lewiston-Auburn, ME | $67,830 | $79,770 | $97,950 |
| Portland-South Portland, ME | $68,310 | $83,540 | $108,870 |
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 |
| Maine | 14,840 | 15,040 | 200 | 1.30% | 820 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Maine’s Leading Online Nursing Schools Ranked
EduMed’s rankings help you find the top online nursing programs in Maine. Top contenders include the University of Maine, offering online bachelor’s and master’s degrees (Augusta has a 100% NCLEX pass rate!); the University of Southern Maine, with an online BS in Nursing with Healthcare Administration and online Master’s; and the University of New England, with online bachelor’s and master’s degrees, highly ranked by Research.com. Husson University and Saint Joseph’s College also offer great online options. Find your perfect fit in Maine!
University of Southern Maine
Portland, Maine
Why We Selected University of Southern Maine:
- The University of Southern Maine's nursing program offers a high 95% pass rate on the NCLEX-RN exam.
- The program provides modern labs and equipment, including a Simulation Center for hands-on training.
- USM prepares more RNs than any other nursing school in Maine, offering established excellence in care.
Program Details
- AccreditationNECHE
- Average In-State Tuition$8,064
- Average Institutional Aid$5,553
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course66%
- % of Students Receiving an Award40%
- Student/Faculty Ratio13/1
Husson University
Bangor, Maine
Why We Selected Husson University:
- Husson's MSN program offers a supportive online community with experienced faculty.
- The program boasts a 95% passage rate for certification exams, ensuring career confidence.
- Clinical intensives are scheduled in advance, providing flexibility for working professionals.
Program Details
- AccreditationNECHE
- Average In-State Tuition$18,890
- Average Institutional Aid$8,801
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course68%
- % of Students Receiving an Award57%
- Student/Faculty Ratio14/1
University of Maine
Orono, Maine
Why We Selected University of Maine:
- The University of Maine School of Nursing offers specialized career tracks in family nurse practice and healthcare leadership.
- The program provides access to significant graduate scholarships, including a $550,000 grant from the Helene Fuld Health Trust.
- Graduates benefit from faculty expertise in advanced nursing roles, enhancing career opportunities in leadership and education.
Program Details
- AccreditationNECHE
- Average In-State Tuition$11,640
- Average Institutional Aid$8,861
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course67%
- % of Students Receiving an Award55%
- Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
Saint Joseph’s College of Maine
Standish, Maine
Why We Selected Saint Joseph’s College of Maine:
- Saint Joseph's College of Maine offers high NCLEX-RN passing rates over 90%.
- The program provides integrated placement services for clinical rotations with no added cost.
- Faculty members are active clinicians, bringing real-world experience into the classroom.
Program Details
- AccreditationNECHE
- Average In-State Tuition$39,986
- Average Institutional Aid$22,755
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course31%
- % of Students Receiving an Award65%
- Student/Faculty Ratio8/1
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
