Online Nursing Schools in UT: Top Programs, Cost, and More

Nursing is one of the most in-demand and rewarding careers today, and Utah has an increasing need for nurses at all levels to care for its citizens as the fastest-growing state. Becoming a registered nurse (RN) might seem like an overwhelming process, but one of the state’s top online RN programs can make it a convenient process. Check out EduMed’s step-by-step guide that features state licensure requirements for nurses, inside looks at hybrid programs, and more.

Find Your Online Degree

  1. Take our quiz
  2. Match with schools
  3. Connect with favorites
I want my
In

Understanding Different Types of Online Nursing Programs in Utah

With so many nursing programs in Utah to choose from, becoming an RN can be challenging. To make the search more feasible, students like you should understand the ideal factors to consider when selecting a school, such as online learning formats.

While nursing programs are increasingly utilizing online platforms for content delivery, there will always be an in-person clinical component to nursing school. However, this means you can typically do your coursework on your own schedule and plan around clinicals as you wrap up your degree. Continue reading to see which nursing degree options you have, and some spotlight schools for prospective students like you.

Online Undergraduate Degree Programs

If you’ve never earned a college degree, start here. You can begin with training to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or invest longer in earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Consider costs, time, and mode of delivery when choosing a program, as well as what you’d like as the outcome of your studies.

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

If you want to get started working in nursing swiftly, becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program is an excellent avenue. CNAs complete a variety of tasks and responsibilities for patient care and often have some of the most frequent interaction with patients. Snow College’s CNA program offers hybrid instruction and preparation for licensure.

Example: Snow College Nursing Assistant Program

  • Cost: $255 (plus $25 student fees)
  • Length: 1 semester (3 credits)
  • Mode: Hybrid, on-campus, in-person clinicals

FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Get out into the field in a year flat with the Practical Nursing Program at Eagle Gate College. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam to become a licensed practical nurse. One of the benefits of being an LPN is that you can explore a bridge program later, which will make it easier to earn your BSN or beyond.

Example: Eagle Gate College Practical Nursing Program

  • Cost: $29,237.28 (total cost)
  • Length: 12 months, 48 credit hours
  • Mode: Blended (in-person & online)

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

Earning an Associate Degree in Nursing qualifies you to take the NCLEX-RN exam, where you can begin to work as a registered nurse. This degree pathway is more intensive than a CNA or LPN training, and you come away from it with a degree and qualifications that you can later use to springboard to a BSN down the road.

Example: Joyce University of Nursing & Health Sciences Associate’s Degree in Nursing

  • Cost: $970/credit hour
  • Length: 5 semesters, 20 months, 69 credit hours
  • Mode: Hybrid (online coursework, in-person clinicals)

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

If you are hoping to have a traditional four-year college experience, Utah Tech’s BSN program is a great fit. You will take courses methodically, with plenty of time to absorb content, participate in clinicals, and prepare for the NCLEX-RN. These courses are only offered on-campus, which is common for BSN programs without previous nursing experience.

Example: Utah Tech University BSN Program

  • Cost: $272/credit hour (resident)
  • Length: 120 credits (4 years)
  • Mode: On-campus

Accelerated BSN (ABSN)

An Accelerated BSN is ideal for students with prior college courses or bachelor’s degrees that transfer into the accelerated BSN program while preparing students for the NCLEX-RN. Students who have already earned a bachelor’s degree will often pursue this degree option to pivot a career change to nursing.

Example: Roseman University of Health Sciences Accelerated BSN

  • Cost: $61,800
  • Length: 18 months
  • Mode: Hybrid or on-campus, with in-person clinical rotations

Graduate and Post-Graduate Degree Programs

Graduate nursing degrees, including a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), or PhD in nursing is for advanced practice nurses who are looking to deepen their skillset. Whether you would like to practice as a Nurse Practitioner or other advanced practice provider or pursue nursing as an academic specialty, these programs are for you.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

If you are itching for a little professional advancement and love the opportunities you’ve had as a preceptor, an MSN program might be a great fit for you. Utah Valley’s program cultivates the skills you need to be a nurse educator. You’ll be among advancing leaders in the field, including the evolving area of nursing informatics.

Example: Utah Valley University Master of Science in Nursing

  • Cost: $359/credit hour (resident), $1016/credit hour (non-resident)
  • Length: 4 semesters full-time, 6 semesters part-time, 34 total credits
  • Mode: Online

DNP and PhD Doctoral Programs

DNP and PhD programs are for individuals who want to take their nursing careers to the highest level possible. DNP degrees are ideal for those who want to continue working in clinical practice while a PhD is more appropriate for someone looking to teach at the college level or to engage in research.

Example: Westminster University Doctor of Nursing Practice

  • Cost: $1,345/credit hour
  • Length: 32 credits, 12 months (3 semesters)
  • Mode: Hybrid

Post-Master’s Certificate Programs

By charging per term instead of per credit, WGU’s Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner program allows you to transfer in comparable credits and take your coursework at your own pace. All learning is asynchronous, which is best for nurses with a busy life. With increasing needs for psychiatric nurse practitioners, you can expect a $30k annual increase in salary within four years of graduation.

Example: Western Governors University Post-Master’s Nursing Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

  • Cost: $7,155 per term
  • Length: 18 months (3 terms)
  • Mode: Online, plus in-person clinical (local to you)

Bridge Degree Programs

Career advancement for nurses should be simplified, especially for practicing nurses. Bridge programs allow LPNs and RNs pursue a BSN or higher by streamlining coursework and considering what you already know. Check out some pathways to advancing your credentials through a bridge program.

LPN to RN and LPN to BSN

These nursing bridge programs are perfect for individuals with prior nursing experience and training. They allow LPNs to become RNs or advance even further to earn their BSNs by recognizing the academic nursing credits and nurse licenses that they already have.

Example: Weber State University Practical Nurse to Registered Nurse Program

  • Cost: $630.62/credit hour
  • Length: Two semesters (8 months)
  • Mode: Hybrid

RN to BSN

Increasing standards of care in healthcare have moved towards strong preferences, if not requirements, for nurses to hold a BSN. Those who previously earned an RN are most of the way there. Consider an RN to BSN program like Utah Tech’s where you can affordably finish the coursework while also be able to showcase your acumen as a nurse in the field.

Example: Utah Tech University RN-BSN

  • Cost: $255/credit hour
  • Length: 2-3 semesters, 25 credits
  • Mode: Online

RN to MSN

Ready to make an even bigger jump than to a BSN? Check out your options for an RN-to-MSN program, like this one at WGU. You’ll begin with bachelor’s level coursework and then advance to master’s level content, finishing with the skills to assume a leadership role as a nurse.

Example: Western Governors University RN to MSN in Nursing Leadership and Management

  • Cost: $5,325 per term for undergraduate portion, $5,035 per term for graduate portion
  • Length: 37 months (on average)
  • Mode: Online

BSN to DNP

Explore the same Doctor of Nursing Practice degree options as peers who enter with a master’s degree with a BSN to DNP program. At the University of Utah, you can pursue Gerontology, Nurse Midwifery, Family Nurse Practitioner, Neonatal, Pediatrics, Psychiatric Mental Health or Women’s Health as a specialty are and jump from a bachelor’s to doctorate in just three short years. Not sure about your specialty area? Our nursing specialty quiz can help you decide.

Example: University of Utah BS-to-DNP

  • Cost: $440/credit hour, plus fees
  • Length: 3 years (8 semesters)
  • Mode: Hybrid

Direct-Entry MSN

For those who have assumed more responsibility in their job like becoming a charge nurse, an accelerated or direct-entry MSN is an excellent way to advance as a nurse educator or in executive nursing leadership. Online options make this type of program accessible and affordable for working nurses.

Example: Joyce University of Nursing & Health Sciences Accelerated MSN

  • Cost: $588/credit hour
  • Length: 32 credits plus 270 clinical hours, 3 semesters
  • Mode: Online

Licensing Information & Requirements for Utah’s Registered Nurses

As in other states, you must become licensed to practice as an RN in Utah. The Utah Department of Commerce Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL) is the regulatory body that oversees the nursing licensure. The overall process to become a registered nurse in Utah is like most other states, but it’s still important to understand how the process will be unique for you.

1 – Earn an Accredited Nursing Degree

The first step in licensure is to graduate from an accredited nursing school. Regardless of your tier of nursing, this is crucial. You should look for schools that are approved by the DOPL as well as other national accrediting bodies, like the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Accredited programs will feature their accreditation status prominently on their website and advertising materials. If you are looking hard for information about accreditation for a program, move on to another clearly accredited program.

2 – Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam

NCLEX questions cover four main categories: safe and effective care environment, health promotion and maintenance, psychosocial integrity, and physiological integrity. Questions are multiple-choice, and test-takers receive a pass/fail score.

Prepare for the exam and take advantage of the resources from your program, such as our beginner’s guide to the NCLEX and our essential study skills guide for healthcare students. Schools will want to boast high first-time pass rates, which means they want you to do well. Talk to your preceptors, faculty, and instructors for advice and study preparation. Consider studying together with like-minded peers from your program.

3 – Apply for State Licensure

The DOPL compiled a guide to request to test online, and necessary paperwork required before taking the NCLEX-RN includes completing the Request for Authorization to Test application and submitting your official nursing school transcripts. Make sure you’ve met all of Utah’s licensing requirements before your apply to test. If you require accommodations for test-taking, have those materials prepared to submit. After passing the NCLEX-RN, you’ll pay a $90 fee and submit fingerprints to conduct a criminal background check.

If you plan to practice in other states than Utah in the future, check out the Nurse Licensure Compact that will help you apply for licenses in participating states.

4 – Maintain and Renew Licensure

Nurses must remain current with their medical knowledge, and the DOPL requires 200 hours of licensed nursing practice annually coupled with 15 hours of approved continuing education. Utah licensing also requires an approved continuing education course on suicide prevention.

The DOPL will mail you a renewal notice for your license 60 days in advance, so make sure you take care of renewal promptly as well as prioritizing changing your address with the DOPL if you move. You may be able to renew your license if it expired less than two years ago, but if it was longer than that, you must start the process over again.

5 – Pursue Specialty Certifications (Optional)

Did one of your clinical rotations feel more interesting than the rest? Do you like getting pulled to a particular unit once you’re on the floors? Consider a nursing specialty certification, like critical care, pediatrics, anesthesia, cardiac, family care, or midwifery. Many of these may require earning a master’s degree or beyond and open an array of doors as an advanced practice provider. Consider exploring the Bureau of Labor Statistics in Utah for areas of nursing that are currently in highest need to see where it may overlap with your area of interest.

Utah’s Registered Nurses Job and Pay Outlook

Utah's job market for Registered Nurses (RNs) is projected to grow significantly, with an expected increase of 25.3%, translating to over 6,400 new RN positions by 2030. This growth rate is considerably higher than the national average of 5.6%, reflecting the state's expanding healthcare needs. The average annual openings in Utah are projected to be about 2,170, likely due to growth, retirement, and turnover, offering many opportunities for new nurses.

When it comes to earnings, RNs in Utah have a wide potential salary range. The median annual salary is $79,790, with those in the 10th percentile making approximately $64,950 and those at the 90th percentile earning $102,000. Salaries vary slightly by region, with Salt Lake City offering slightly higher wages (median of $80,060) compared to other cities like Provo-Orem or Ogden-Clearfield, where the median is around $77,640-$78,580. This information can help prospective nursing professionals in Utah assess potential job opportunities and salary expectations based on their experience and location preference.

Area 10th Percentile Median 90th Percentile
Utah $64,950 $79,790 $102,000
Logan, UT-ID $62,950 $79,920 $100,290
Ogden-Clearfield, UT $63,290 $77,640 $98,020
Provo-Orem, UT $63,180 $78,580 $102,160
St. George, UT $64,800 $80,240 $100,410
Salt Lake City, UT $66,610 $80,060 $104,830

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
Utah 25,300 31,710 6,410 25.30% 2,170

Source: Projections Central

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

Best Online Options for Nursing Training in Utah

To make the selection process easier for prospective students like you, we’ve compiled a list of the best nursing schools. This ranking system was determined by analyzing self-reported data from the schools themselves in the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). We’ve combined the most ideal elements such as online learning formats, accreditation, and student resources in order to provide you with your best options. Read on to discover which schools made their way onto our list.

1

University of Utah

Salt Lake City, Utah

The University of Utah College of Nursing offers a range of programs, including BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD degrees, with options for traditional, accelerated, and online learning. The programs cover various specializations such as Nurse Practitioner, Nursing Informatics, Nursing Leadership, and Nurse-Midwifery. The college emphasizes flexibility and accessibility through distance learning opportunities.

Why We Selected University of Utah:

  • The University of Utah College of Nursing offers a state-of-the-art simulation learning center for enhanced clinical training.
  • The program provides opportunities for community-engaged learning and interprofessional education experiences.
  • The College of Nursing boasts a high NCLEX pass rate on the first attempt, consistently above the national average.

Program Details

  • AccreditationNWCCU
  • Average In-State Tuition$7,749
  • Average Institutional Aid$7,795
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course75%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award68%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio18/1
Utah State University’s RN to BSN program is fully online, allowing students to complete their BSN in two to four semesters. It builds on an associate degree, focusing on professional nursing practice, population health, leadership, and more. The program offers flexibility for working nurses and emphasizes critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and experience in community and public health settings. Graduates work in various healthcare environments, including hospitals, critical care, community health, and specialty areas.

Why We Selected Utah State University:

  • The program offers flexible online scheduling, allowing students to balance work and education.
  • The RN to BSN program ensures high job placement rates, with 100% of graduates employed shortly after completion.
  • The program is designed to meet licensure requirements in multiple states, enhancing career mobility for graduates.

Program Details

  • AccreditationNWCCU
  • Average In-State Tuition$8,042
  • Average Institutional Aid$8,656
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course70%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award53%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio21/1
Utah Valley University’s BSN program offers a comprehensive education for ASN-prepared nurses to advance their careers. The program is entirely online, allowing for full-time or part-time study. It includes core nursing courses and electives, focusing on leadership, genomics, global health, and research. Accredited by ACEN, the program is designed to meet the demands of modern healthcare, preparing graduates for roles such as nurse practitioner, nurse anesthetist, and nurse educator.

Why We Selected Utah Valley University:

  • The UVU Nursing Program offers a seamless transition from ASN to BSN, enhancing career advancement opportunities.
  • The program provides a faculty-student mentorship, fostering personalized guidance and support throughout the curriculum.
  • Students benefit from hands-on learning through simulation and patient care, preparing them for real-world healthcare environments.

Program Details

  • AccreditationNWCCU
  • Average In-State Tuition$5,368
  • Average Institutional Aid$3,224
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course56%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award36%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio25/1
The RN to BSN program at Weber State University is designed for registered nurses seeking career advancement. It typically lasts two to three semesters, depending on the student’s pace. The program requires 25 upper-division nursing credits, with additional credits needed to meet the university’s core and breadth requirements. Admission requires an associate degree in nursing from a regionally accredited institution, a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, and a current Utah RN license. The curriculum focuses on population health, care coordination, evidence-based practice, and leadership. Graduates are prepared for roles in leadership, education, public health, and research. Tuition and fees are detailed on the university’s website. The program offers flexibility and opportunities for career growth, making it an attractive option for RNs looking to enhance their professional capabilities.

Why We Selected Weber State University:

  • The program offers an accelerated completion option, allowing students to finish in 2 to 3 semesters.
  • The online format provides flexibility for working professionals, allowing them to balance work and study.
  • Experienced RNs with over 5 years of experience may receive course credits through challenge examinations.

Program Details

  • AccreditationNWCCU
  • Average In-State Tuition$5,329
  • Average Institutional Aid$3,207
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course47%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award39%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio21/1
5
The nursing programs at Southern Utah University offer a range of options tailored to different career goals. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) prelicensure program prepares students for generalist nursing roles, requiring 120 credits. Admission is competitive, with selection based on GPA, test scores, and other factors. The Health Professional to BSN and RN to BSN programs cater to licensed professionals seeking a bachelor’s degree. Graduate programs include the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in Leadership and Administration, as well as dual degree options like the MSN-MBA. These programs focus on developing leadership skills and preparing students for advanced roles in healthcare. Career outcomes include positions in leadership, administration, and specialized nursing fields. Financial aid and scholarships are available to support students throughout their studies.

Why We Selected Southern Utah University:

  • The program offers a holistic approach with hands-on clinical experiences in diverse settings.
  • The RN to BSN program provides flexibility and affordability with a set per-credit-hour rate.
  • Graduates are well-prepared for advanced roles with a strong foundation in critical thinking and leadership.

Program Details

  • AccreditationNWCCU
  • Average In-State Tuition$6,006
  • Average Institutional Aid$7,126
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course52%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award52%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio23/1
6

Dixie State University

Saint George, Utah

Utah Tech University offers a comprehensive nursing program with multiple pathways. The Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AASN) includes options for Paramedic to RN and LPN to RN bridge programs, preparing students for the NCLEX-RN exam. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a pre-licensure program emphasizing clinical practice, health promotion, and leadership roles. Admission requires specific pre-requisite courses with a minimum GPA of 3.0 for BSN and completion of prerequisites for AASN. Career outcomes include roles as registered nurses in various healthcare settings. Utah Tech also offers an RN-BSN program for working nurses, requiring a cumulative GPA of 2.7 in nursing courses. Financial aid and scholarships are available to support students. The programs are accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), ensuring high educational standards.

Why We Selected Dixie State University:

  • The program offers specialized bridge options for LPNs and paramedics to become RNs.
  • The nursing program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) since 2004.
  • Students can continue their education in Utah Tech's online RN-BSN program after graduation.

Program Details

  • AccreditationNWCCU
  • Average In-State Tuition$5,064
  • Average Institutional Aid$3,055
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course39%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award42%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio22/1
7

Westminster College

Salt Lake City, Utah

The Doctor of Nursing Practice – Nurse Anesthesia program at Westminster University is a 9-semester, three-year graduate degree designed to equip students with the intellectual and technical skills necessary for safe anesthesia administration. The program emphasizes hands-on experience, small class sizes, and a supportive learning environment. Students must earn a grade of B or higher in all courses to graduate. The program includes extensive clinical rotations across multiple locations, culminating in approximately 900 cases. Upon completion, graduates are prepared to sit for the NBCRNA certification exam and fill community needs for anesthesia providers. Faculty mentorship is a key component, with each faculty member responsible for a small group of students. The program meets state requirements in all 50 U.S. states, and graduates have a strong track record of career success.

Why We Selected Westminster College:

  • The program offers extensive hands-on experience in anesthesia administration.
  • The curriculum includes mentorship from experienced faculty and local CRNA preceptors.
  • Graduates achieve a 100% rate of meeting COA and NBCRNA requirements.

Program Details

  • AccreditationMSCHE
  • Average In-State Tuition$38,160
  • Average Institutional Aid$24,493
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course18%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award56%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio8/1
Back to top
Rebecca Newman

Rebecca Newman, BA, MSW, LCSW AUTHOR

Rebecca Newman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 14 years of experience in social work and clinical practice, currently working as the lead clinician in an academic medical practice. With a wide range of experience including case management, psychotherapy, clinical supervision, and practice operations, Rebecca incorporated writing into her repertoire in 2019. She has authored more than 45 articles on mental health, social work, healthcare education, and higher education and has provided expert advice in over 30 articles in publications such as Prevention, Bustle, Cosmopolitan, and Shape, offering accessible and relevant content to an array of readers. Rebecca also provides Anti-Bias Review for media outlets to support inclusive content for readers of all lived experiences. Rebecca earned her Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing from Oberlin College in 2010 and Master of Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania in 2012 and has been practicing in social work since then. With experience as a psychotherapist and working in higher education, Rebecca is particularly poised to offer guidance on mental health for students, strategies for supporting others, and thoughtfully considering options for selecting an institution for higher learning.

Read More
Logo of EDUMED, featuring a stylized graduation cap forming the letter 'M' in a monochromatic orange, with the rest of the letters in purple on a green background.
Privacy Settings

When you visit the EduMed website, we store cookies on your browser to collect information. This information may pertain to you, your preferences, or your device and is primarily used to ensure the site functions as expected and to deliver a more personalized experience. You can choose to disable certain types of cookies; however, this may affect your experience on the site and limit the services we can provide. Click on the different category headings to learn more and customize your settings. Please note that you cannot opt out of our First Party Strictly Necessary Cookies, as these are essential for the proper functioning of the website (e.g., displaying the cookie banner, remembering your preferences, logging into your account, redirecting upon logout, etc.).