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Online Nursing Schools in NC: Choosing Top Programs

Whether you want to become North Carolina’s newest registered nurse or build on your existing qualifications, an online nursing program can help you reach your goal. From entry-level degrees to doctorates, NC offers online and hybrid programs for every level of nursing. Read on to learn more about online nursing schools in North Carolina and see if one might be the right fit for you.

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Author: Ellery Weil, PhD
Editor: Edumed Editing Staff

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Exploring North Carolina’s Online Nursing Programs

Online nursing programs offer a convenient option for pursuing all educational levels. From certifications and associate degrees to a Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) and everything in between, each type of nursing degree has an online or hybrid program option — and North Carolina is no exception.

However, even nursing programs that describe themselves as fully online may require you to complete in-person clinical rotations at a site convenient to you, and some hybrid programs may require you to come to campus for labs. That’s why North Carolina residents choose local schools for online nursing programs. Apart from location, things like accreditation, tuition, and timelines all factor into your decision regarding which school to attend and which nursing degree to pursue.

While your path forward may not be apparent yet, our breakdown of North Carolina’s various online and hybrid nursing degrees and schools will help clarify your options and set you on the correct route to becoming a nurse.

Online Undergraduate Nursing Degree Programs

Online and hybrid undergraduate nursing programs are generally the first step in your nursing education. These programs are designed for students with no prior nursing experience or education and range from certificate programs — which can be completed in a few months — to full degrees, which can take several years to complete.

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

A certified nursing assistant, or CNA, assists physicians and nurses in hospitals and other clinical settings. Becoming a CNA results in a career helping patients with activities of daily life (ADLs), such as changing clothing and eating, administering medications, and checking and recording patient vitals.

Example: Carolinas College of Health Sciences

  • Cost: $1,200
  • Length: 2-3 Months
  • Mode: Hybrid

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Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Like CNAs, LPNs, or licensed practical nurses, assist nurses and physicians in various clinical settings. LPNs often specialize in helping with ADLs, moving patients, and handling supply issues, such as ensuring nurse stations have sufficient bandages and other equipment.

Example: Cape Fear Community College

  • Cost: $3,196
  • Length: 12 Months
  • Mode: Hybrid

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

Associate degrees in nursing support students who want to earn their RN license but aren’t ready to commit to a four-year bachelor’s degree. These programs, commonly offered by community colleges and vocational schools, usually take two years to complete and provide affordable tuition rates.

Example: Carolinas College of Health Sciences

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

A traditional bachelor of science in nursing also supports those looking to become RNs. These programs take four years to complete, typically leading to higher starting salaries than an ADN. Plenty of public and private colleges throughout the state offer these programs online and on campus.

Example: North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University

Accelerated BSN (ABSN)

Accelerated BSN programs can help you enter nursing if you already have a bachelor’s degree in another subject but want to change careers. Lasting approximately 18 months, accelerated BSNs build on existing general education knowledge and focus on targeted nursing coursework and clinical experiences.

Example: UNC Charlotte

Graduate and Post-Graduate Degree Programs

The most advanced nursing qualifications — graduate and postgraduate nursing degrees — include master’s, doctorate, and postgraduate certificates. The programs are designed for those with prior nursing degrees and potentially previous nursing experience in a professional setting and may take several years to complete.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

MSN programs exist for those who already have a BSN and individuals who earned a bachelor’s degree in an unrelated subject. Depending on previous credentials, these degrees take two to three years to complete. They can utilize both online and in-person learning.

Example: UNC Charlotte

DNP and PhD Doctoral Programs

DNP programs take three to five years to complete and support nurses who want to continue in professional practice at the top of the career ladder. PhD in nursing programs usually take four to six years and build the skills needed to transition into research and/or academic positions.

Example: UNC Charlotte

Post-Master’s Certificate Programs

Post-graduate certificates support graduates of MSN programs who want to gain specialized knowledge in a particular nursing area. These North Carolina nursing programs can be found online and on-campus, covering topics such as nurse administration and management, nurse education, forensic nursing, and various nurse practitioner specialty areas.

Example: UNC Charlotte

Bridge Degree Programs

If you’ve already earned some nursing qualifications but want to go to the next level, you might consider a bridge program. Nursing bridge programs are designed to build on your prior qualifications to help you complete your advanced degree quicker while saving time and money.

LPN to RN and LPN to BSN

If you’ve worked as a licensed practical nurse and feel ready to take the next professional step, these bridge programs can help. The LPN to RN leads to an associate degree and takes 18-24 months to complete. The LPN to BSN leads to a bachelor’s degree and takes three to four years to finish.

LPN to RN Example: Cape Fear Community College

  • Cost: $76/credit
  • Length: 3 Semesters
  • Mode: Hybrid

RN to BSN

An accelerated RN to BSN program could be the right option if you already have your ADN and RN license but want to upgrade your credentials. Building on knowledge already gained in your associate degree, these North Carolina bridge programs usually take about two years to complete.

Example: UNC Charlotte

  • Cost: $189.48/credit​
  • Length: 1 Year
  • Mode: Online

RN to MSN

Designed for ADN-educated RNs, these bridge programs allow you to skip the BSN and earn a master’s degree in less time than doing both separately. You can usually find these NC nursing programs online or in person, lasting 30-36 months.

Example: UNC Pembroke

BSN to DNP

For BSN graduates looking to earn a professional doctorate as quickly as possible, a BSN to DNP program allows them to bypass a master’s degree and earn a doctoral degree more quickly. These programs can be highly competitive and take several years to complete.

Example: The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Direct-Entry MSN

If you already hold a bachelor’s in a non-nursing field and want a career change into nursing, you might be the right candidate for a direct-entry MSN. These advanced, competitive programs are designed to provide master ‘s-level nursing education to students who haven’t previously studied nursing.

Example: UNC Greensboro

Licensing Information & Requirements for Registered Nurses in North Carolina

There’s more to becoming a nurse in North Carolina than simply graduating from nursing school. Given the high level of responsibility involved in nursing, licensure is a complex process. Read on for a step-by-step guide to becoming a nurse in North Carolina and keeping your license valid throughout your career.

1 – Earn an Accredited Nursing Degree

In North Carolina, all registered nurses must hold an ADN or BSN to meet minimum education requirements. Your nursing degree must come from an accredited school with institutional and programmatic nursing accreditation. Whether your degree is online, in-person, or hybrid, accreditation makes it legitimate and ensures that the state board of nursing will recognize your qualifications.

2 – Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam

One of the most important steps towards earning your North Carolina nursing license is passing the NCLEX-RN. Your nursing program will have explained the details of the NCLEX and what makes it essential, and depending on the program, it may have provided you with study sessions and/or access to prep materials. Either way, developing an independent study routine in the lead-up to your test day can be a good idea.

3 – Apply for State Licensure

After you’ve passed the NCLEX, it’s time to apply for your North Carolina nursing license. Each state has different nursing license requirements and procedures, and in North Carolina, the relevant authority is the North Carolina Board of Nursing or NCBN. They have multiple paths to licensure, and which is the best fit for you will depend on your education and experiences, so check their website for further details.

4 – Maintain and Renew Licensure

Even after earning your license, you’ll need to maintain it in good standing and renew it before it expires. In North Carolina, all nursing licenses come with an expiry date, and you must renew your nursing license within 90 days of the expiration date to maintain it. Remember, if you let your license lapse, you must repeat the entire initial licensure process, which can be expensive and lengthy.

5 – Pursue Specialty Certifications (Optional)

Even once you’ve been established as a nurse in North Carolina, your nursing education and qualifications may still have room to grow. You may pursue specializations, such as nurse midwifery, nurse leadership, and more. How you go about this will vary from specialization to specialization but may involve more education, whether a certification or another full degree, such as an MSN or DNP.

There will be a surge in RN jobs due to the shortages the profession has been experiencing. As a result, 7,930 new jobs will be added to the field annually in the coming years, representing a 16.40% increase in the state. This is good news for North Carolina and for you if you enroll in a nursing degree program. Nationwide, 193,100 new jobs will be created annually, reflecting a 5.60% increase. More good news is that registered nurses earn a good living. The salary range is $62,980 to $104,190 per year, with an average income of $79,580. However, salaries vary across the state. In the Durham-Chapel Hill area, nurses earn an average of $78,990, with a range from $68,800 to $112,990. Similarly, nurses in Asheville earn between $59,270 and $110,840, with an average of $79,580. Check out the tables below for more information.

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Area ↕ 10th Percentile ↕ Median ↕ 90th Percentile ↕
North Carolina $62,980 $79,580 $104,190
Asheville, NC $59,270 $79,580 $110,840
Burlington, NC $63,140 $83,790 $98,830
Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC $64,240 $81,190 $103,130
Durham-Chapel Hill, NC $68,800 $78,990 $112,990
Fayetteville, NC $58,300 $87,190 $110,260
Goldsboro, NC $60,980 $76,820 $97,070
Greensboro-High Point, NC $62,930 $80,950 $101,310
Greenville, NC $66,320 $80,100 $107,180
Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton, NC $56,350 $71,180 $93,280
Jacksonville, NC $60,300 $76,240 $95,210
New Bern, NC $57,500 $68,430 $86,410
Raleigh, NC $64,850 $81,910 $103,640
Rocky Mount, NC $59,490 $75,150 $96,990
Wilmington, NC $63,370 $76,440 $98,680
Winston-Salem, NC $66,470 $83,020 $106,970

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
North Carolina 106,190 123,650 17,460 16.40% 7,930

Source: Projections Central

Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.

North Carolina’s Leading Online Nursing Programs

The “best” online nursing program in North Carolina will vary from student to student. That being said, we’ve considered programs from multiple perspectives using data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Our rankings consider the availability and ease of online learning, financial aid availability and tuition costs, student resources for online students, and graduation rates and time to completion. See the methodology tab for more, or read on for the rankings.

4-year Schools
1

East Carolina University

Greenville, North Carolina

East Carolina University’s RN to BSN program is a fully online, part-time option designed for working nurses. The program can be completed in 16 months over four semesters and features competitive tuition rates. It is CCNE accredited and recognized as a National League for Nursing Center of Excellence. The curriculum focuses on practical application and leadership, with strong support from experienced faculty and a cohesive online community. High completion rates and positive student feedback highlight the program’s quality.

Why We Selected East Carolina University:

  • The RN to BSN program offers flexible online courses tailored for working nurses.
  • East Carolina University's nursing programs boast a high 98% NCLEX-RN pass rate.
  • The program is supported by expert faculty and offers specialized career tracks in nursing leadership.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$4,452
  • Average Institutional Aid$3,766
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course74%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award66%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio18/1
2

Gardner-Webb University

Boiling Springs, North Carolina

Gardner-Webb University offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with concentrations in Nursing Education and Nursing Administration. The program is fully online, featuring 8-week courses, and can be completed in as little as one year if two courses are taken per term. The curriculum includes core courses in theory, research, and professional role development, along with concentration-specific courses and a practicum. Graduates are prepared for advanced roles in healthcare and education settings.

Why We Selected Gardner-Webb University:

  • The program offers flexible online courses with 8-week terms, allowing students to manage their pace effectively.
  • Expert faculty provide personalized guidance in a close-knit virtual classroom environment.
  • Practicum experiences are available in local healthcare and education settings, enhancing practical skills.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$31,220
  • Average Institutional Aid$19,586
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course56%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award59%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio11/1
3

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Charlotte, North Carolina

UNC Charlotte’s online RN to BSN program is tailored for working nurses with an associate degree or diploma. The 31-credit curriculum can be completed in 12 months full-time. The program is 100% online with no campus visits required, providing flexibility for professionals. Students must meet general education requirements and possess an unencumbered RN license. Admission requires a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0. The program prepares nurses for advanced roles in healthcare with a focus on leadership and practical skills.

Why We Selected University of North Carolina at Charlotte:

  • The UNC Charlotte RN to BSN program offers flexible online learning, allowing working professionals to complete their degree without campus visits.
  • The program provides opportunities for leadership development, enhancing career prospects through courses like Leadership in Nursing Practice.
  • Graduates benefit from strong employer connections, with alumni working in prominent healthcare organizations such as Novant Health and Duke University.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$3,812
  • Average Institutional Aid$4,377
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course70%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award64%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio20/1
4

University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Greensboro, North Carolina

The RN to BSN program at UNC Greensboro is designed for working registered nurses seeking to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The program prepares graduates to deliver evidence-based care within the healthcare system. Key highlights include accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and recognition as a Center for Excellence in Nursing Education. The program is taught by experienced faculty, with support from the Academic Enhancement Center. While specific details on program length and credits are not provided, the program is recognized for its educational excellence and affordability, offering competitive tuition rates and scholarships. Graduates are well-prepared for various nursing roles, contributing to high-quality patient care as part of inter-professional teams. The program’s reputation is further enhanced by its ranking among the top nursing schools nationally.

Why We Selected University of North Carolina at Greensboro:

  • UNCG offers competitive tuition rates and various scholarships to make nursing education affordable.
  • The program features state-of-the-art simulation labs for immersive learning experiences.
  • UNCG provides clinical placements at top healthcare organizations, enhancing job readiness.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$4,422
  • Average Institutional Aid$3,140
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course88%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award59%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
5

University of North Carolina Wilmington

Wilmington, North Carolina

The RN to BSN program at the University of North Carolina Wilmington is designed for registered nurses seeking to enhance their education and career opportunities. The program requires a minimum of 31 credit hours, consisting of 9 core courses and 1 elective. Admission requirements include an associate’s degree in nursing, a cumulative GPA of 2.4, and a current, unencumbered RN license. The program typically takes two years to complete, though accelerated options may reduce this to 12 months. Career pathways include roles such as case management nurse, travel nurse, and perinatal educator. Employers often prefer or require BSN degrees for advancement, making this program valuable for career progression. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, ensuring a high-quality education. Financial aid and tuition details are available upon inquiry.

Why We Selected University of North Carolina Wilmington:

  • The program offers an accelerated completion option, allowing students to finish in as few as 12 months.
  • The online format provides flexibility for working nurses to balance education with their careers without relocation.
  • Faculty with real-world nursing experience teach the courses, enhancing practical knowledge and application.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$4,443
  • Average Institutional Aid$3,634
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course73%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award72%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
6

Fayetteville State University

Fayetteville, North Carolina

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program at Fayetteville State University focuses on patient safety and quality, equipping graduates to lead initiatives in healthcare settings. The program requires 36 credit hours and is designed for students with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. It prepares students to apply principles of patient safety, evaluate healthcare errors, and implement safety cultures using methodologies like LEAN and Six Sigma. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Prospective students must have a BSN degree. Career outcomes include leadership roles in patient safety and quality care. Financial details and specific admission requirements are available upon inquiry. The program’s emphasis on systems perspective enhances graduates’ ability to improve healthcare safety and quality.

Why We Selected Fayetteville State University:

  • The program offers flexible online learning options for full- and part-time students.
  • The MSN program provides specialized career tracks in Health Care Leadership and Administration and Nurse Practitioner roles.
  • Students benefit from a research-intensive environment with top-ranked schools and interprofessional education opportunities.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$2,982
  • Average Institutional Aid$2,719
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course91%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award34%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
7

Western Carolina University

Cullowhee, North Carolina

Western Carolina University’s RN to BSN program is designed for registered nurses seeking to enhance their skills and knowledge. The program requires a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 and a current, unrestricted RN license. It involves completing 60 hours of transferable non-nursing courses and meeting specific program prerequisites. The program can be completed in four semesters. Career outcomes include leadership roles, health policy, and evidence-based care. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Financial aid options are available, but specific costs are not detailed on the provided page. The program prepares students for advanced nursing degrees and roles in healthcare leadership.

Why We Selected Western Carolina University:

  • Western Carolina University offers nursing scholarships to both undergraduate and graduate students.
  • The NC Promise Tuition Plan significantly reduces tuition costs for in-state students to $500 per semester.
  • Prospective nursing students can explore employer partnerships for additional scholarship opportunities.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$1,000
  • Average Institutional Aid$2,310
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course53%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award62%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
8

Appalachian State University

Boone, North Carolina

Appalachian State University offers several nursing programs, each with distinct features. The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program focuses on nursing education, requiring 39 credit hours over 24 months. It includes core courses, nursing education courses, and practicums. Graduates are eligible for the Certified Nurse Educator exam. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) pre-licensure program is a two-year, 63-credit program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam. It emphasizes hands-on experience and evidence-based practice. The RN to BSN program is designed for working nurses, offering flexibility with completion options in one to three years. It requires 30 credits at App State, with additional credits awarded for prior practice. Each program has specific admission requirements and offers pathways for career advancement in nursing.

Why We Selected Appalachian State University:

  • Appalachian State University's nursing program offers a concept-based curriculum with early clinical experiences.
  • The program boasts high NCLEX-RN pass rates, indicating well-prepared graduates for the nursing profession.
  • App State provides study abroad opportunities and access to state-of-the-art nursing simulation labs.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$4,242
  • Average Institutional Aid$3,299
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course58%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award72%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
9

Carolinas College of Health Sciences

Charlotte, North Carolina

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at Carolinas College of Health Sciences is designed to prepare students for careers in nursing. The program typically requires completion of a set number of credits, though specific details are not provided in the available information. Admissions requirements generally include proof of high school graduation or equivalent. Career outcomes include roles in various healthcare settings, with potential for advancement in leadership or specialized nursing fields. Financial aid options may be available through Atrium Health’s Educational Assistance program for eligible students. The program emphasizes hands-on clinical experiences, which are crucial for developing practical skills in nursing. Prospective students should contact the college for specific details on program length, credits, and costs.

Why We Selected Carolinas College of Health Sciences:

  • Atrium Health teammates can receive financial aid and loan forgiveness options for the RN-BSN program.
  • The program offers flexible online learning, allowing students to work full-time while pursuing their degree.
  • Graduates benefit from strong job placement opportunities due to the college's affiliation with Atrium Health.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$13,584
  • Average Institutional AidN/A
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course43%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award100%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio6/1
10

Cabarrus College of Health Sciences

Concord, North Carolina

The RN-to-BSN program at Cabarrus College of Health Sciences is designed for working registered nurses seeking career advancement. It offers a flexible format with full-time and part-time options, allowing students to complete the program in a timeframe that suits their needs. The program focuses on developing leadership skills, utilizing science for patient-centered care, and promoting health for diverse populations. Admission requires an associate degree or diploma in nursing, a minimum GPA of 2.5, and a current RN license. Financial aid and generous loans are available. The program prepares graduates for varied employment opportunities and professional certifications, with a focus on population health, leadership, and service. It also offers credits for prior work and life experience, enhancing career progression and professional development.

Why We Selected Cabarrus College of Health Sciences:

  • Cabarrus College offers extensive clinical experience through Atrium Health partnerships.
  • The program provides generous scholarships and financial aid to support students.
  • Cabarrus College boasts a high job placement rate for nursing graduates.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$13,850
  • Average Institutional Aid$1,388
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course72%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award48%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio7/1
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Ellery Weil, PhD AUTHOR

Dr. Ellery Weil holds a bachelor's degree in Political Science from the University of Michigan -- Ann Arbor, and a master's degree and PhD in History from University College London, and has been writing professionally in the higher education sector and for nutrition and wellness spaces for over six years. In addition to her work below, her writing has been published by Pearson, Arizona State University, BestColleges, A-List Education, and more.

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