Online Nursing Schools in VA: Exploring Top Programs
Are you interested in healthcare and want to play a role in helping people in need? By becoming a nurse in Virginia, you’ll join the ranks of some of the most important workers in the healthcare system. The best nursing schools in Virginia offer programs for all levels, including those who are already nurses and want to become managers, researchers, or educators. Whatever your career goals, this guide will help you navigate Virginia’s nursing school options to make the best choice and start your journey.
Why Trust EduMed? We partner with 150+ nursing & allied health professionals to bring you the most in-depth data & insights on higher education & careers in healthcare. Meet our team and review our editorial values.
Inside Different Types of Online Nursing Programs in Virginia
Whether you’re studying nursing for the first time or expanding your current nursing knowledge and skills, nursing programs in Virginia provide many options to help you meet your goals. Just because you’re working or raising a family doesn’t mean you can’t get your first nursing degree or build on the nursing education you’ve already completed.
Many online nursing programs in Virginia allow you to attend classes at your convenience, while also providing the hands-on training necessary to solidify the concepts you learn. You’ll be able to finish some or all of your classes online, but you’ll still need to complete nursing clinicals in a healthcare facility just like you would with a traditional nursing degree program. Some programs are hybrid, which means you complete a portion of your classes online and another portion on campus, while for other programs you go to campus only to participate in lab experiences.
Online Undergraduate Degree Programs
Whether you’re studying nursing for the first time or interested in expanding your current nursing knowledge and skillset, online nursing programs in Virginia provide many choices. Start here to learn more about career options for undergraduate students or those with a bachelor’s degree in another discipline.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
As a CNA, you’ll learn some of the fundamentals of nursing practice, from taking vital signs to patient care and will become an indispensable part of the healthcare team. A CNA program will have in-person components so you can practice clinical skills. Oftentimes these programs can be completed in a few weeks.
Example: Heart to Heart Career Training Center Hybrid Nurse Aide
- Cost: $1,235 (total)
- Length: Five weeks (140 hours)
- Mode: Hybrid
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
Further develop your nursing skills as an LPN, performing many of the same functions as a nurse. These programs take around a year, and after you pass the NCLEX-PN you can begin work as an LPN. To ensure you have experience working with patients, you’ll have in-person clinicals as a part of earning an LPN certificate.
Example: Eastern Virginia Career College Practical Nurse Education
- Cost: $488/credit
- Length: 45 weeks
- Mode: Hybrid
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
An ADN is for students who have no previous nursing experience and who want to become registered nurses (RNs). Students learn the basics of patient care, such as how to dress wounds, perform and interpret diagnostic tests, and review patient treatment plans. These programs typically take two years to complete.
Example: Northern Virginia Community College Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
- Cost: $218.86/credit hour in state, $436.18/credit hour out of state
- Length: 67 credits
- Mode: Hybrid
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Traditional BSN programs, like ADN degrees, are for those who don’t have previous nursing education. These are four-year undergraduate degrees, many of which are on campus and offer a traditional college experience. However, more schools are utilizing online material to augment their coursework, providing additional flexibility while completing requisite studies for nursing, general education, and clinical training. Students are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN after earning a BSN.
Example: Radford University Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Cost: $522/credit hour
- Length: Four years (120 credits)
- Mode: Hybrid
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
Students who want to become nurses and have a bachelor’s degree in a different discipline can enroll in an ABSN program. Since these students have already completed general education classwork, the ABSN focuses solely on nursing courses and takes one to two years to complete.
Example: The George Washington University School of Nursing Accelerated BSN
- Cost: $1,400/credit hour
- Length: Four semesters (60 credits)
- Mode: Hybrid
Graduate and Post-Graduate Degree Programs
Once you’ve earned an RN and a BSN and practiced for a little while, you may decide you want to level up and learn more to become an even more highly skilled nurse. In advanced degrees in nursing, there are ample opportunities to utilize online learning, as graduate-level nurses have all earned RNs and already fulfilled requisite clinical hours. However, programs that culminate in becoming a nurse practitioner include additional clinical hours.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
MSN programs are for nurses who want to pursue high-level nursing positions such as managerial roles in a healthcare facility. You may also decide to become a nurse practitioner or pursue nursing education or nurse leadership. These programs are designed for working nurses; many healthcare employers offer tuition assistance to support your career development.
Example: Eastern Mennonite University Master of Science in Nursing
- Cost: $639/credit hour
- Length: 24 months (two courses per semester), 48 months (one course per semester)
- Mode: Online
DNP and PhD Doctoral Programs
Although doctor of nursing practice (DNP) and doctor of philosophy (PhD) programs are both doctoral degrees, they’re designed for different nursing goals. A DNP program focuses on advanced practical care and leadership; those who earn these degrees use this education to pursue managerial jobs in the nursing field or provide advanced care to patients. PhD programs focus on nursing research; those who earn these degrees usually become nursing educators or researchers.
Example: Radford University Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Cost: $574/credit hour in state, $980/credit hour out of state
- Length: 33-87 hours, depending on track (e.g., nurse leadership vs. psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner)
- Mode: Online or hybrid
Post-Master’s Certificate Programs
If nurses are interested in focusing on geriatric, pediatric, or psychiatric patients, a post-graduate certificate provides expertise in the specialty they want to pursue. These certificates are designed for those who already have a master’s degree or doctorate, so they go into the program with advanced knowledge.
Example: University of Virginia School of Nursing Post-Master’s Certificate Programs
- Cost: $888/credit hour
- Length: About two years (full time)
- Mode: Hybrid
Bridge Degree Programs
For those who have taken a few steps down the pathway of becoming a nurse and want to go further, bridge degree programs are a great way to build on your existing knowledge. Most programs give you credit for your existing credentials or license and support you as you fill in the curriculum gaps for your desired endpoint, whether that’s an RN, BSN, MSN, or DNP.
LPN to RN and LPN to BSN
These bridge programs are for LPNs who want to further their education to get a promotion, higher pay, and more autonomy in their jobs. LPN-to-RN and LPN-to-BSN programs take two to four years, respectively. Students take more advanced coursework that builds on their previous knowledge and complete clinical rotations.
Example: Brightpoint Community College, Associate of Applied Science in Nursing, LPN to RN Bridge
- Cost: $169.40/credit hour in state, $407.50/credit hour out of state
- Length: Two years (67 credits)
- Mode: Hybrid
RN to BSN
As more employers favor nurses with bachelor’s degrees, an RN-to-BSN bridge can increase your job prospects and promotion options at your current job. These programs last about a year and build on existing knowledge by introducing more advanced concepts such as nursing informatics, community health, and nursing leadership.
Example: Virginia Commonwealth University RN to BS in Nursing
- Cost: $455/credit hour
- Length: Six semesters (part time, 121 credits)
- Mode: Online
RN to MSN
These bridge programs consolidate application cycles and admissions decisions into one. By offering a pathway from an RN through the BSN curriculum to an MSN, students accelerate their studies and continue their momentum. For most programs, admission to the RN to BSN program also allows you to continue in the RN to MSN option.
Example: Old Dominion University RN to MSN Option
- Cost: $408/credit hour (BSN portion, in state), $620/credit hour (MSN portion, in state); $1,109/credit hour (BSN portion, out of state), $1,486/credit hour (MSN portion, out of state)
- Length: Two to four years, depending on existing degrees
- Mode: Hybrid
BSN to DNP
Save time, application anxiety, and expense by availing yourself of a BSN to DNP pathway. As a bachelor’s level nurse, you can earn your DNP while working as a nurse and enjoy the personal, professional, and financial benefits of a doctoral degree once you complete your coursework. Many students are able to complete practicum hours at their jobs as RNs, making this option working-nurse friendly.
Example: University of Virginia BSN to DNP Pathway
- Cost: $551-$888/credit hour in state, depending on duration of term (summer/winter terms vs. spring/fall terms); $1,117-$1,450/credit hour out of state
- Length: Three years
- Mode: Hybrid
Direct-Entry MSN
If you have a bachelor’s degree in another discipline and know that you want to become a master’s level nurse, you can pursue a direct-entry MSN program that will launch you into nursing with competitive credentials. These programs consolidate your studies and have you ready to hit the nursing floor in as little as two years.
Example: Sentara College of Health Sciences Master’s Entry to Nursing Practice (MSN)
- Cost: $584/credit hour
- Length: Two full years (including summers)
- Mode: Hybrid
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
Licensing Information & Requirements for Registered Nurses in Virginia
After you finish your degree program, it’s time to get a Virginia nursing license. The following outlines the steps you need to take to obtain your credentials and get a job as an RN. You can also learn more about nursing licensure requirements in Virginia by visiting the Virginia Department of Health Professions Board of Nursing website.
1 – Earn an Accredited Nursing Degree
The first step toward getting a license is to graduate from a nursing program approved by the Virginia Board of Nursing. Verify that your prospective program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and approved by the state of Virginia. Program accreditation should be prominently and proudly displayed on the website and marketing materials.
2 – Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
Prospective nurses in Virginia are required to fill out the application for licensure by examination and pay the $190 fee. However, lean on your resources to prepare for the NCLEX-RN. Ask your RN or BSN program for resources on test preparation. To build your confidence, start early, study with other student colleagues, and prepare thoughtfully. High-stakes testing is incredibly stressful, so make sure to tend to your mental health along the way.
3 – Apply for State Licensure
After passing the NCLEX-RN (good job!), you will now complete the remaining requirements for nursing licensure in Virginia. This includes completing a criminal background check and fingerprinting, submitting your nursing program transcripts, and ensuring all your other paperwork is in order. Licenses are typically processed within 30 business days.
4 – Maintain and Renew Licensure
Nursing licenses need to be renewed every two years. Renewal requirements include completing continuing education requirements and paying a $140 fee. Continuing education requirements vary, from attending an approved refresher course in nursing to publishing an evidence-based research paper to participating in 30 hours of workshops, seminars, conferences, or courses.
5 – Pursue Specialty Certifications (Optional)
Even for students with a thirst for knowledge, most find an area of particular interest in which they want to invest time and resources into learning more. As you come to know yourself better as a nurse, consider a specialty certification such as critical care, pediatrics, or ambulatory care to stand out against other applicants for roles in your desired area. Not sure what you might like? Take our quiz to see which specialty area might be right for you.
Career & Salary Outlook for Registered Nurses in Virginia
In Virginia, Registered Nurses (RNs) are projected to experience moderate job growth of 4.3%, with approximately 3,050 new jobs added by 2030. The state will have around 4,160 annual job openings due to both growth and retirements, reflecting a steady and secure demand for healthcare professionals.
Salaries for RNs in Virginia vary by region, with the median annual wage statewide being $84,100. The 10th percentile earns around $63,710, while the 90th percentile can make up to $115,120. In specific cities, such as Richmond, RNs earn a median salary of $85,440, while in areas like Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford, the median is lower at $77,350. For top earners, wages in areas like Harrisonburg can reach up to $122,730. These salary ranges highlight potential earnings for RNs in Virginia, depending on experience and location, offering useful insights for anyone considering a nursing career in the state.
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | $63,710 | $84,100 | $115,120 |
| Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford, VA | $55,280 | $77,350 | $95,370 |
| Charlottesville, VA | $67,270 | $81,510 | $102,110 |
| Harrisonburg, VA | $61,270 | $78,610 | $122,730 |
| Lynchburg, VA | $61,920 | $77,900 | $95,390 |
| Richmond, VA | $67,080 | $85,440 | $112,700 |
| Roanoke, VA | $62,040 | $78,380 | $98,330 |
| Staunton-Waynesboro, VA | $61,550 | $82,630 | $99,520 |
| Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News, VA-NC | $65,030 | $82,540 | $108,500 |
| Winchester, VA-WV | $66,150 | $90,030 | $122,380 |
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 |
| Virginia | 70,190 | 73,240 | 3,050 | 4.30% | 4,160 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Ranking the Best Online Nursing Programs in Virginia
So how do you know which online nursing programs in Virginia to focus on? That’s where our rankings come in. Our data factors in accreditation, number of online components, availability of academic counseling and career placement services, percentage of students participating in distance education, tuition, completion rates, financial aid, and student/faculty ratio. All these factors come together to produce the following rankings — and to save you time in your quest to find the best online nursing program in Virginia for you.
Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing
Richmond, Virginia
Why We Selected Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing:
- The program offers academic concentrations for specialized nursing education.
- Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing provides strong accreditation and high NCLEX-RN pass rates.
- Students benefit from clinical placements in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals and clinics.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$12,600
- Average Institutional AidN/A
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course100%
- % of Students Receiving an Award80%
- Student/Faculty Ratio10/1
George Mason University
Fairfax, Virginia
Why We Selected George Mason University:
- The program offers a unique co-enrollment option, allowing students to earn both an AAS and BSN concurrently.
- The accelerated second-degree BSN provides a fast-track option for students with prior bachelor's degrees.
- Clinical placements are available in a variety of settings throughout the National Capitol area.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$9,510
- Average Institutional Aid$7,796
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course86%
- % of Students Receiving an Award70%
- Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, Virginia
Why We Selected Virginia Commonwealth University:
- The program offers flexible start dates with three options per year.
- Ranked among the top 6% of nursing programs nationwide, ensuring high-quality education.
- The online format allows students to continue working while earning their degree.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$12,094
- Average Institutional Aid$7,266
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course88%
- % of Students Receiving an Award67%
- Student/Faculty Ratio18/1
Old Dominion University
Norfolk, Virginia
Why We Selected Old Dominion University:
- The program offers a 95% certification pass rate for advanced practice nursing graduates.
- ODU's nursing program features a partnership with the Sentara Center for Simulation and Immersive Learning.
- Graduates enjoy a 99% employment rate within one year of graduation.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$7,029
- Average Institutional Aid$4,386
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course76%
- % of Students Receiving an Award52%
- Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
Norfolk State University
Norfolk, Virginia
Why We Selected Norfolk State University:
- The program offers a highly affordable tuition under $10,000.
- Faculty members have extensive experience in nursing topics, providing expert guidance.
- The program includes both indirect and direct practice experiences to enhance clinical skills.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$5,752
- Average Institutional Aid$4,993
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course98%
- % of Students Receiving an Award41%
- Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
Radford University
Radford, Virginia
Why We Selected Radford University:
- Radford University's nursing programs offer state-of-the-art Clinical Simulation Centers for practical training.
- The program emphasizes community service and global health initiatives, enhancing graduates' impact.
- Radford University provides extensive real-world experience through clinical placements and interprofessional collaborations.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$7,922
- Average Institutional Aid$4,819
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course67%
- % of Students Receiving an Award55%
- Student/Faculty Ratio13/1
Liberty University
Lynchburg, Virginia
Why We Selected Liberty University:
- Liberty University's online nursing programs offer flexible scheduling with eight start dates annually.
- The programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, ensuring a respected degree.
- Hands-on practicum experiences can be completed within the student's own community, enhancing convenience.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$15,409
- Average Institutional Aid$10,834
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course87%
- % of Students Receiving an Award41%
- Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
Regent University
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Why We Selected Regent University:
- Regent University's nursing program offers a faith-based approach, integrating ethics and morality into practice.
- Regent University provides hands-on advising and holistic support, focusing on mind, body, and spirit.
- Regent University offers flexible online courses and practice immersion for real-life application.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$17,220
- Average Institutional Aid$9,367
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course91%
- % of Students Receiving an Award57%
- Student/Faculty Ratio21/1
Marymount University
Arlington, Virginia
Why We Selected Marymount University:
- Marymount's BSN program offers rich clinical experiences in diverse healthcare settings.
- The program boasts a high NCLEX pass rate, exceeding 90% over the past five years.
- Marymount provides internship opportunities at prestigious healthcare institutions like Virginia Hospital Center.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$34,400
- Average Institutional Aid$19,440
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course55%
- % of Students Receiving an Award57%
- Student/Faculty Ratio14/1
Riverside College of Health Careers
Newport News, Virginia
Why We Selected Riverside College of Health Careers:
- Flexible online RN-to-BSN program with a competitive tuition of $11,100.
- Advanced Placement Option for qualifying LPNs in the ADN program.
- Association with Riverside Health Career Planning services for job placement support.
Program Details
- AccreditationACCSC
- Average In-State Tuition$12,820
- Average Institutional Aid$2,000
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course41%
- % of Students Receiving an Award75%
- Student/Faculty Ratio10/1
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
