Online Nursing Programs in Missouri: Finding the School for You
With nursing jobs in Missouri set to grow anywhere from 6% to 42%, nursing can give you stability and competitive pay while allowing you to make a difference in the lives of patients. Whether you’re just starting your journey into nursing or thinking about the next steps after working as an RN, this guide can help you find the Missouri nursing school that best meets your needs. Learn the various types of online nursing programs offered by top-ranked Missouri schools, how to earn a license in the state, and where to find academic support and professional resources along the way.
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Inside Online Nursing Programs in Missouri (by Level)
Choosing the right nursing school in Missouri is crucial for your long-term growth in the field. There are various educational paths available, including Associate Degrees in Nursing (ADN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), and advanced degrees like Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or doctorate in nursing, each offering unique opportunities. Many programs are available online or in hybrid formats, allowing students to complete coursework at their own pace while gaining hands-on clinical experience.
Missouri offers diverse nursing programs for those just entering the profession, as well as those looking to advance their careers. Pre-licensure programs prepare students for the NCLEX exam, while bridge programs are designed for established nurses seeking advanced roles.
You can find nursing schools in Missouri offering degrees at various academic levels, making it easy to find a program that meets you where you are professionally and academically. This section provides you with a good sense of the most common options currently available for those looking for quality nursing programs in Missouri.
Online Undergraduate Degree Programs
Missouri’s fully online and hybrid RN programs offer Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degrees. Designed for aspiring nurses and working professionals, these flexible programs suit students seeking career advancement while balancing personal commitments. They provide comprehensive clinical training and academic support statewide.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
An online Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program combines virtual coursework with in-person clinical training. Students learn essential skills like patient care, vital sign monitoring, and basic medical procedures. Flexible schedules suit busy individuals, preparing them for certification exams and hands-on healthcare roles in hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics.
Example: Missouri Health Care Association
- Cost: $700 – $1,300
- Length: 100 days
- Mode: Online
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
ADNs often serve as entry points for many students and are commonly offered by community colleges and vocational schools. With curriculums consisting of approximately 60 credits, ADN programs usually require two years of full-time study and allow graduates to seek licensure after meeting state requirements.
Example: St. Charles Community College
- Cost: $16,787.90
- Length: Two years
- Mode: In-person
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Traditional BSN programs provide the best pathway for first-time nursing students who know they want to earn bachelor’s degrees. These programs usually include 120 credits, which includes in-person clinical training components. Most traditional BSN programs take four years to complete. Graduates can seek licensure as RNs.
Example: University of Missouri – Mizzou Online
- Cost: $13,650 – $17,430 per year
- Length: Four years
- Mode: Online
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
Accelerated BSN programs consist of the same number of credits and set the same graduation requirements as traditional BSNs but allow students to graduate more quickly. The accelerated nature of these programs means you can earn your credentials in as few as three years. However, to qualify for an ABSN, you must
Example: Rockhurst University
- Cost: $46,980
- Length: 16 months
- Mode: Hybrid
Graduate and Post-Graduate Degree Programs
Graduate nursing programs offer Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degrees. Designed for registered nurses seeking advanced roles, they focus on leadership, specialized clinical practice, and research. Ideal for nurses pursuing careers as nurse practitioners, educators, administrators, or healthcare policy experts.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
The MSN is an advanced nursing education that takes one to three years, depending on your specialization. They prepare students for roles as nurse practitioners or in informatics and administration leadership. Those with bachelor’s degrees in other fields can take direct-entry MSN programs and finish in 18-32 months.
Example: University of Missouri – Mizzou Online
- Cost: $25,412 – $34,412 / year
- Length: 2.5 – 3.5 years
- Mode: Hybrid
DNP and PhD Doctoral Programs
The DNP takes about two years full time, includes a practicum, and prepares students for nursing leadership, clinical education, and individual practice. A Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Science is a scholarly research degree that takes up to 10 years and includes a doctoral dissertation.
Example: University of Missouri – Mizzou Online
- Cost: $9,000-$18,000 / year
- Length: 3-5 years
- Mode: Hybrid
Post-Master’s Certificate Programs
Designed for nurses with MSNs, post-graduate certificates take one or two years and concentrate in areas like psychiatric nursing, acute care, nurse practitioner, nursing education, informatics, pediatric or gerontology populations, and emergency nursing. Nursing management studies include leadership, finance, and human resources.
Example: University of Missouri-Kansas City
- Cost: $9,000-$18,000 / year
- Length: 1-2 years
- Mode: Hybrid
Bridge Degree Programs in Missouri
Bridge nursing programs, such as LPN to RN and LPN to BSN, help nurses advance their education efficiently. They combine prior experience with new coursework, leading to associate or bachelor’s degrees. Designed for working nurses seeking career growth, they offer flexible, accelerated paths to higher credentials and expanded healthcare roles.
LPN to RN and LPN to BSN
After working as an LPN for a time, some nurses decide they want to update their credentials and qualify for higher-paying jobs by completing LPN to RN or LPN to BSN programs. An LPN to RN program usually takes 12-18 months to finish and results in an associate degree. An LPN to BSN can take longer, typically 24-36 months, and graduates will earn a bachelor’s degree.
Example: Missouri State University
- Cost: $15,779
- Length: 1 year
- Mode: Hybrid
RN to BSN
Because more employers now expect RNs to hold bachelor’s degrees, RN to BSN programs are becoming popular. Because students in these programs already have extensive clinical training and experience as nurses, these programs are often available completely online. These programs usually consist of roughly 30 credits and take 1-2 years to complete. Schools commonly offer both part-time and full-time learning options.
Example: University of Central Missouri
- Cost: $285/credit
- Length: 1 year
- Mode: Online
RN to MSN
RNs with associate degrees may decide to bypass bachelor’s credentials altogether and move directly into master’s degrees. RN to MSN programs take approximately three years from start to finish and can commonly be done completely online, depending on the specialization.
Example: Missouri Baptist University
- Cost: $350/credit (Undergraduate and graduate while in the BSN program) // $745 (Graduate after beginning the MSN program)
- Length: Three years
- Mode: Online
BSN to DNP
A BSN to DNP program enables registered nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing to earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice. The transition from a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a crucial step for those seeking to influence healthcare at the most impactful level. Combining advanced clinical training, leadership, and healthcare policy, it prepares nurses for top-tier roles as nurse practitioners, clinical leaders, or educators, with both online and in-person components.
Example: Missouri State University
- Cost: $45,321 (in-state) // $59,024 (out-of-state)
- Length: 3-4 years
- Mode: Online
Direct-Entry MSN
A Direct-Entry MSN program is designed for individuals with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees seeking a Master of Science in Nursing. Direct-entry MSN programs for non-nursing majors are designed for career changers and other individuals who have a bachelor’s degree but no prior nursing experience. These programs provide a straight path to becoming a professional nurse while awarding an advanced degree at the same time. It offers accelerated nursing coursework and clinical training, preparing graduates for RN licensure and advanced nursing roles. It’s important to understand, however, that all direct-entry MSN programs, whether they feature online study or not, require on-campus attendance for certain classes and labs.
Example: Herzing University
- Cost: $825/semester
- Length: Two years
- Mode: Online
RN License Requirements in Missouri
In Missouri, registered nurses must graduate from an accredited nursing program and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. They must apply for licensure through the Missouri State Board of Nursing, which includes meeting background check requirements. To maintain their license, RNs in Missouri must fulfill continuing education requirements, ensuring they stay up to date on best practices in clinical care and patient safety. Keep reading for a more in-depth breakdown of the steps to licensure.
1 – Accredited Degree in Nursing
When searching for the best nursing school in Missouri, it’s essential to ensure your chosen program and institution are properly accredited. Accreditation plays a crucial role in your nursing education, as attending a school without the correct accreditation can impact your ability to transfer credits, pursue advanced degrees, and secure employment.
Regional accreditation is granted to qualifying colleges and universities by organizations recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). In Missouri, schools should have regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), which oversees institutions in the central United States.
In addition to regional accreditation, nursing programs should also hold program-specific accreditation to ensure they meet industry standards. Aspiring nurses in Missouri should enroll in a program accredited by either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). These accreditations are necessary for pursuing a master’s degree in nursing, transferring credits to another institution, and meeting the qualifications for most nursing positions in the state.
2 – Passing Grade on the NCLEX-RN
Complete an accredited Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program in Missouri and take advantage of NCLEX mentoring or advising offered by your school. Use practice tests to reinforce key concepts and improve test readiness. During your final semester, apply for licensure through the Missouri State Board of Nursing, submit your official transcripts, and pay the required application fee.
Register with the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), pay the $200 exam fee, and review their free test strategies. Once approved, you will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) with instructions to schedule your NCLEX-RN exam within 90 days.
3 – Apply for Licensure in Missouri
To apply for RN licensure in Missouri, you must complete a nursing diploma program sponsored by a healthcare institution or approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing. Additionally, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam and complete a criminal background check, including fingerprint submission. Missouri is part of the Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing nurses to hold a multi-state license.
Unlike many states, Missouri does not charge an application fee for initial RN licensure by exam, though you must pay a $41.75 fee for your criminal background check. All Missouri RN licenses expire on April 30 of each odd-numbered year. While Missouri does not require continuing education for RN license renewal, you must submit a renewal application and pay the $85 renewal fee to maintain your license.
4 – Renew Your Licensure on Schedule
RN licenses in Missouri must be renewed every two years. Missouri registered nurses can apply for license renewal in odd-numbered years, with all licenses expiring on April 30. Unlike some states, Missouri does not require continuing education credits for RN license renewal. However, nurses must submit their renewal application and pay the $85 renewal fee to maintain an active license.
5 – Pursue Specialty Certifications (Optional)
In Missouri, after becoming a licensed RN, you can advance your career by obtaining specialty certifications in fields such as pediatrics, critical care, or oncology. These certifications typically require additional coursework, clinical experience, and passing an exam through national certifying bodies like the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Earning a specialty certification can enhance job opportunities, increase salary potential, and open doors for career growth. Many healthcare employers in Missouri offer support for certification programs, including tuition assistance or reimbursement.
Salary Trends and Job Forecast for Nurses in Missouri
Missouri is a great state for Registered Nurses (RNs) looking for competitive salaries and reliable job opportunities. The median RN salary here is $77,190, with the top 10% earning up to $99,330. Cities like Kansas City and St. Louis stand out, offering median pay around $80,000 and top salaries exceeding $100,000. In smaller areas like Columbia and St. Joseph, median earnings are close to $78,000, while Springfield provides more budget-friendly options with a median salary of $64,000, balancing cost of living with career potential.
On the employment front, Missouri’s RN workforce is growing steadily. By 2030, the state expects to add 7,620 new nursing jobs, a 9.9% increase, bringing the total to 84,580. With around 5,110 openings each year, there are plenty of opportunities for both new graduates and experienced professionals. Whether you prefer the energy of a big city or the pace of a smaller town, Missouri’s healthcare sector offers a stable and rewarding path forward. Explore the data below to learn more.
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Missouri | $56,690 | $77,190 | $99,330 |
| Cape Girardeau, MO-IL | $58,010 | $75,580 | $90,870 |
| Columbia, MO | $60,800 | $78,330 | $98,270 |
| Jefferson City, MO | $49,240 | $68,060 | $89,020 |
| Joplin, MO | $57,370 | $74,460 | $95,210 |
| Kansas City, MO-KS | $64,010 | $79,920 | $100,050 |
| St. Joseph, MO-KS | $59,930 | $79,460 | $93,010 |
| St. Louis, MO-IL | $61,660 | $80,760 | $100,700 |
| Springfield, MO | $54,000 | $64,000 | $86,000 |
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 |
| Missouri | 76,960 | 84,580 | 7,620 | 9.90% | 5,110 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Ranking Missouri’s Leading Online Nursing Programs
With the number of nursing programs in Missouri, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. While we can’t make the decision for you, we’ve researched and ranked schools based on data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). We specifically consider factors important to students, such as student-to-faculty ratio, tuition cost, accreditation, and more. For further details on our ranking process, check out the methodology pop-up below.
Maryville University of Saint Louis
Saint Louis, Missouri
Why We Selected Maryville University of Saint Louis:
- The program offers a student-centered approach with intimate faculty-student relationships, even in online settings.
- Maryville's faculty consists of experienced nurse practitioners who translate current practice into classroom teaching.
- The program provides flexible scheduling options, allowing students to complete coursework at their own pace.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$24,766
- Average Institutional Aid$16,199
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course79%
- % of Students Receiving an Award71%
- Student/Faculty Ratio13/1
University of Missouri-Columbia
Columbia, Missouri
Why We Selected University of Missouri-Columbia:
- The Sinclair School of Nursing offers a state-of-the-art simulation center for immersive learning experiences.
- The program provides advanced interactive classrooms and clinical skills labs for hands-on training.
- The school features a dedicated research and innovation suite for advancing nursing education and practice.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$10,017
- Average Institutional Aid$8,976
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course66%
- % of Students Receiving an Award71%
- Student/Faculty Ratio18/1
Missouri State University-Springfield
Springfield, Missouri
Why We Selected Missouri State University-Springfield:
- Missouri State University's nursing program offers innovative educational technology for enhanced learning.
- The program emphasizes faculty and student scholarship through direct and indirect involvement opportunities.
- Missouri State University provides a shared governance structure, allowing students to participate in university committees.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$7,196
- Average Institutional Aid$5,619
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course51%
- % of Students Receiving an Award55%
- Student/Faculty Ratio19/1
Rockhurst University
Kansas City, Missouri
Why We Selected Rockhurst University:
- Accelerated completion options allow students to earn medical degrees in just seven years.
- Automatic acceptance into dual-degree programs like DO/MBA enhances career prospects.
- Partnerships with prestigious institutions like Kansas City University offer high-quality educational experiences.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$39,500
- Average Institutional Aid$29,254
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course45%
- % of Students Receiving an Award76%
- Student/Faculty Ratio13/1
University of Central Missouri
Warrensburg, Missouri
Why We Selected University of Central Missouri:
- The program offers a 100% AANP and ANCC pass rate for graduates.
- The University of Central Missouri provides state-of-the-art simulation and skills labs for hands-on training.
- Faculty includes experienced nurse practitioners and educators offering real-world insights and guidance.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$7,758
- Average Institutional Aid$3,695
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course54%
- % of Students Receiving an Award50%
- Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
Webster University
Saint Louis, Missouri
Why We Selected Webster University:
- The program offers faculty expertise in various nursing specialties, including community health and psychiatric nursing.
- The curriculum emphasizes holistic health promotion and personal development, preparing students for a broad nursing role.
- The program is designed with flexibility for working professionals, offering online and part-time study options.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$28,500
- Average Institutional Aid$17,267
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course57%
- % of Students Receiving an Award57%
- Student/Faculty Ratio11/1
Southeast Missouri State University
Cape Girardeau, Missouri
Why We Selected Southeast Missouri State University:
- Experienced faculty provide personalized instruction in small class settings.
- The program offers a structured curriculum with critical courses for success.
- Transfer students receive tailored advising to ensure seamless credit integration.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$7,461
- Average Institutional Aid$5,800
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course58%
- % of Students Receiving an Award48%
- Student/Faculty Ratio20/1
Saint Louis University
Saint Louis, Missouri
Why We Selected Saint Louis University:
- Saint Louis University offers nearly 1,000 hours of clinical experience in major St. Louis hospitals.
- The program provides state-of-the-art classroom and simulation laboratory facilities for hands-on learning.
- Faculty are nationally recognized for teaching, research, leadership, and student mentorship.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$48,100
- Average Institutional Aid$32,209
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course26%
- % of Students Receiving an Award79%
- Student/Faculty Ratio9/1
University of Missouri-St Louis
Saint Louis, Missouri
Why We Selected University of Missouri-St Louis:
- The UMSL College of Nursing offers a state-of-the-art Nursing Learning Resource and Simulation Center for hands-on training.
- UMSL provides robust clinical experiences through partnerships with over 100 healthcare providers, enhancing practical skills.
- The college's faculty includes award-winning experts in optimizing health outcomes, enhancing student skills in nursing.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$12,015
- Average Institutional Aid$10,184
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course46%
- % of Students Receiving an Award52%
- Student/Faculty Ratio14/1
University of Missouri-Kansas City
Kansas City, Missouri
Why We Selected University of Missouri-Kansas City:
- The UMKC RN-BSN program offers a 100% online format for flexibility.
- The program integrates rural, urban, and suburban nurses to explore healthcare issues collaboratively.
- It provides opportunities for students to engage virtually with faculty and peers through technological support systems.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$9,579
- Average Institutional Aid$5,726
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course45%
- % of Students Receiving an Award48%
- Student/Faculty Ratio14/1
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
