Top 30 Online Nursing Degree Programs in the USA

Top 30 Online Nursing Degree Programs in the USA

Are you looking to study an online nursing science program in the United States? You’re at the right place, as we take you through a comprehensive guide on how to enrol in the online nursing science degree program in the United States.

This guide also highlights each programme’s unique features, curriculum highlights, faculty expertise, and the overall experience they offer aspiring scholars.

1. Johns Hopkins University – Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Johns Hopkins University’s Online MSN program is renowned for its rigorous academic standards and comprehensive curriculum. The program offers specializations in various fields such as nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, and health systems management.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Advanced Nursing Practice: Courses on clinical decision-making and advanced health assessment.
  • Health Systems Management: Leadership and management in healthcare settings.
  • Evidence-Based Practice: Integrating research into clinical practice.

Faculty Expertise: Johns Hopkins boasts a faculty of leading researchers and practitioners in the nursing field. Their expertise ensures that students receive an education grounded in the latest clinical practices and research.

Career Prospects: Graduates are well-prepared for advanced clinical roles, leadership positions in healthcare, and academic careers. The program’s emphasis on evidence-based practice ensures that students are equipped to improve patient outcomes and drive healthcare innovation.

2. Duke University – Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Duke University’s Online MSN program offers a variety of specializations, including family nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner, and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Primary Care: Focus on family-centered healthcare and chronic disease management.
  • Acute Care: Advanced skills in managing acutely ill patients.
  • Mental Health: Comprehensive training in psychiatric nursing and mental health care.

Faculty Expertise: Duke’s nursing faculty includes experienced clinicians and researchers who bring their real-world experience into the virtual classroom. Students benefit from their deep knowledge and dedication to nursing education.

Career Prospects: The program prepares graduates for advanced practice roles, with a strong emphasis on clinical skills and patient care. Duke’s reputation and network provide graduates with excellent career opportunities in various healthcare settings.

3. Ohio State University – Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Ohio State University’s Online MSN program offers several specializations, including neonatal nurse practitioner, nurse educator, and clinical nurse leader.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Neonatal Care: Advanced care for newborns, including those with critical health issues.
  • Nurse Education: Pedagogical skills for training the next generation of nurses.
  • Clinical Leadership: Skills for leading healthcare teams and managing clinical operations.

Faculty Expertise: The faculty at Ohio State are leaders in nursing education and research, ensuring that students receive a top-notch education that integrates the latest scientific findings and clinical practices.

Career Prospects: Graduates are well-prepared for roles in neonatal care, nursing education, and clinical leadership. The program’s strong focus on practical skills ensures that students are ready to excel in their chosen fields.

4. University of Pennsylvania – Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The University of Pennsylvania’s Online MSN program is known for its high standards and diverse specializations, including nurse midwifery, pediatric primary care, and adult-gerontology primary care.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Midwifery: Comprehensive training in prenatal, labor, and postpartum care.
  • Pediatric Care: Advanced skills in managing the health of children from infancy through adolescence.
  • Adult-Gerontology: Focused care for adults and the elderly, addressing chronic conditions and aging-related health issues.

Faculty Expertise: Penn’s nursing faculty includes some of the most respected figures in the field, bringing their clinical expertise and research into the online learning environment.

Career Prospects: Graduates of the program are highly sought after for roles in midwifery, pediatric care, and gerontology. The program’s emphasis on holistic care and evidence-based practice ensures that graduates are well-equipped to provide high-quality patient care.

5. Georgetown University – Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Georgetown University’s Online MSN program offers specializations such as family nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner, and nurse-midwifery/women’s health nurse practitioner.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Family Practice: Training in comprehensive care for individuals and families.
  • Acute Care: Skills in managing complex and acute health conditions.
  • Women’s Health: Focus on reproductive health, pregnancy, and gynecological care.

Faculty Expertise: Georgetown’s faculty are experts in their respective fields, providing students with a rich learning experience that combines clinical practice with academic rigor.

Career Prospects: Graduates are well-prepared for advanced practice roles in family practice, acute care, and women’s health. The program’s strong reputation and alumni network enhance career opportunities for graduates.

6. University of Cincinnati – Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The University of Cincinnati offers an Online MSN program with specializations including family nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner, and nurse midwifery.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Primary Care: Advanced training in providing comprehensive primary care services.
  • Gerontology: Focused care for the aging population and managing chronic illnesses.
  • Midwifery: Comprehensive education in prenatal, labor, and postpartum care.

Faculty Expertise: The faculty at the University of Cincinnati includes experienced clinicians and researchers who provide students with up-to-date knowledge and practical skills.

Career Prospects: Graduates are well-prepared for roles in primary care, gerontology, and midwifery. The program’s emphasis on clinical practice and patient-centered care ensures that graduates are ready to meet the demands of the healthcare industry.

7. University of Texas at Arlington – Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The University of Texas at Arlington offers an Online MSN program with specializations in family nurse practitioner, pediatric nurse practitioner, and nursing administration.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Family Practice: Comprehensive care for individuals and families across the lifespan.
  • Pediatric Care: Advanced skills in managing the health of children from infancy through adolescence.
  • Nursing Administration: Leadership and management in healthcare settings.

Faculty Expertise: UTA’s faculty are leaders in nursing education and practice, ensuring that students receive a high-quality education that prepares them for advanced roles in nursing.

Career Prospects: Graduates are well-prepared for roles in family practice, pediatric care, and nursing administration. The program’s strong focus on practical skills and leadership ensures that students are ready to excel in their careers.

8. University of Alabama at Birmingham – Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The University of Alabama at Birmingham offers an Online MSN program with specializations including family nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner, and nurse midwifery.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Family Practice: Training in comprehensive care for individuals and families.
  • Acute Care: Skills in managing complex and acute health conditions.
  • Midwifery: Comprehensive education in prenatal, labor, and postpartum care.

Faculty Expertise: UAB’s faculty are experts in their respective fields, providing students with a rich learning experience that combines clinical practice with academic rigor.

Career Prospects: Graduates are well-prepared for advanced practice roles in family practice, acute care, and midwifery. The program’s strong reputation and alumni network enhance career opportunities for graduates.

9. Indiana University – Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Indiana University’s Online MSN program offers specializations such as family nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner, and nursing education.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Primary Care: Advanced training in providing comprehensive primary care services.
  • Gerontology: Focused care for the aging population and managing chronic illnesses.
  • Nursing Education: Pedagogical skills for training the next generation of nurses.

Faculty Expertise: Indiana University’s faculty includes experienced clinicians and educators who provide students with the knowledge and skills needed for advanced practice and educational roles.

Career Prospects: Graduates are well-prepared for roles in primary care, gerontology, and nursing education. The program’s emphasis on practical skills and patient-centered care ensures that graduates are ready to meet the demands of the healthcare industry.

10. University of Arizona – Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The University of Arizona offers an Online MSN program with specializations in clinical systems leadership, nurse practitioner, and nurse anesthetist.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Clinical Leadership: Skills for leading healthcare teams and managing clinical operations.
  • Advanced Practice: Comprehensive training for nurse practitioners in various fields.
  • Nurse Anesthesia: Intensive training in anesthesia care and pain management.

Faculty Expertise: The faculty at the University of Arizona includes experienced clinicians and researchers who provide students with up-to-date knowledge and practical skills.

Career Prospects: Graduates are well-prepared for roles in clinical leadership, advanced practice, and nurse anesthesia. The program’s strong focus on clinical practice and patient-centered care ensures that graduates are ready to excel in their careers.

11. University of South Carolina – Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The University of South Carolina offers an Online MSN program with specializations in family nurse practitioner, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, and nursing administration.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Family Practice: Comprehensive care for individuals and families across the lifespan.
  • Mental Health: Training in psychiatric nursing and mental health care.
  • Nursing Administration: Leadership and management in healthcare settings.

Faculty Expertise: The faculty at the University of South Carolina includes experienced clinicians and educators who provide students with the knowledge and skills needed for advanced practice and administrative roles.

Career Prospects: Graduates are well-prepared for roles in family practice, mental health, and nursing administration. The program’s strong focus on leadership and clinical skills ensures that graduates are equipped to handle the challenges of modern healthcare settings.

12. University of Florida – Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The University of Florida offers an Online MSN program with specializations in family nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner, and nursing education.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Family Practice: Comprehensive care for individuals and families, focusing on preventive and chronic care.
  • Acute Care: Training in managing acutely ill adult and elderly patients.
  • Nursing Education: Skills for educating and mentoring future nurses.

Faculty Expertise: UF’s faculty are recognized experts in their fields, bringing a wealth of clinical and academic experience to the program. Students benefit from their cutting-edge knowledge and commitment to nursing education.

Career Prospects: Graduates are well-prepared for advanced clinical roles, educational positions, and leadership in healthcare. The program’s reputation and comprehensive curriculum provide graduates with a competitive edge in the job market.

13. University of Pittsburgh – Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The University of Pittsburgh offers an Online MSN program with a variety of specializations, including clinical nurse leader, nursing informatics, and nurse anesthesia.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Clinical Leadership: Training in leadership roles within clinical settings.
  • Nursing Informatics: Focus on the integration of nursing and information sciences.
  • Nurse Anesthesia: Intensive education in anesthesia and perioperative care.

Faculty Expertise: Pitt’s faculty includes leaders in nursing research and practice, ensuring that students receive a high-quality education grounded in the latest clinical and technological advancements.

Career Prospects: Graduates are prepared for roles in clinical leadership, informatics, and anesthesia. The program’s strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning and practical skills prepares students for diverse career opportunities in healthcare.

14. University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus – Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus offers an Online MSN program with specializations in family nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner, and nurse-midwifery.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Primary Care: Comprehensive training for providing primary care across the lifespan.
  • Gerontology: Focused care for aging populations, addressing chronic conditions and elder care.
  • Midwifery: In-depth education in prenatal, labor, delivery, and postpartum care.

Faculty Expertise: CU Anschutz’s faculty are experienced clinicians and researchers dedicated to advancing nursing practice and education. Students benefit from their extensive knowledge and commitment to clinical excellence.

Career Prospects: Graduates are well-prepared for roles in primary care, gerontology, and midwifery. The program’s strong focus on evidence-based practice and patient-centered care ensures graduates are ready to excel in their careers.

15. University of Miami – Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The University of Miami offers an Online MSN program with specializations in family nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner, and nursing education.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Family Practice: Training in comprehensive care for individuals and families.
  • Gerontology: Focused care for the elderly, managing chronic illnesses and aging-related conditions.
  • Nursing Education: Skills for teaching and mentoring future nurses.

Faculty Expertise: UM’s faculty includes leading researchers and practitioners in nursing, providing students with access to the latest advancements and best practices in the field.

Career Prospects: Graduates are well-prepared for roles in family practice, gerontology, and nursing education. The program’s strong emphasis on practical skills and clinical excellence ensures that students are ready to meet the challenges of modern healthcare.

16. University of Nebraska Medical Center – Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The University of Nebraska Medical Center offers an Online MSN program with specializations in nurse educator, family nurse practitioner, and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Nurse Education: Comprehensive training for future nursing educators.
  • Family Practice: Skills for providing primary care across the lifespan.
  • Mental Health: In-depth education in psychiatric nursing and mental health care.

Faculty Expertise: UNMC’s faculty are dedicated educators and practitioners, bringing their clinical expertise and academic knowledge to the online classroom.

Career Prospects: Graduates are well-prepared for roles in nursing education, family practice, and mental health care. The program’s strong focus on evidence-based practice ensures that graduates can provide high-quality patient care and effective nursing education.

17. Arizona State University – Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Arizona State University offers an Online MSN program with specializations in nursing education, family nurse practitioner, and nursing leadership.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Nursing Education: Pedagogical skills for training the next generation of nurses.
  • Family Practice: Training in comprehensive care for individuals and families.
  • Nursing Leadership: Leadership and management skills for healthcare settings.

Faculty Expertise: ASU’s faculty are leaders in nursing education and practice, providing students with a high-quality education that integrates the latest research and clinical practices.

Career Prospects: Graduates are well-prepared for roles in nursing education, family practice, and leadership. The program’s emphasis on practical skills and leadership development ensures that students are ready to excel in their careers.

18. University of Central Florida – Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The University of Central Florida offers an Online MSN program with specializations in family nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner, and nursing education.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Primary Care: Comprehensive training for providing primary care across the lifespan.
  • Gerontology: Focused care for aging populations, managing chronic conditions.
  • Nursing Education: Skills for teaching and mentoring future nurses.

Faculty Expertise: UCF’s faculty includes experienced clinicians and educators who provide students with the knowledge and skills needed for advanced practice and educational roles.

Career Prospects: Graduates are well-prepared for roles in primary care, gerontology, and nursing education. The program’s emphasis on practical skills and patient-centered care ensures that graduates are ready to meet the demands of the healthcare industry.

19. University of Kansas – Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The University of Kansas offers an Online MSN program with specializations in family nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner, and nursing education.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Family Practice: Training in comprehensive care for individuals and families.
  • Acute Care: Skills in managing complex and acute health conditions.
  • Nursing Education: Pedagogical skills for training the next generation of nurses.

Faculty Expertise: The faculty at the University of Kansas includes experienced clinicians and educators who provide students with the knowledge and skills needed for advanced practice and educational roles.

Career Prospects: Graduates are well-prepared for roles in family practice, acute care, and nursing education. The program’s emphasis on practical skills and patient-centered care ensures that graduates are ready to meet the demands of the healthcare industry.

20. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill – Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers an Online MSN program with specializations in family nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner, and nursing education.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Primary Care: Advanced training in providing comprehensive primary care services.
  • Gerontology: Focused care for the aging population and managing chronic illnesses.
  • Nursing Education: Pedagogical skills for training and mentoring future nurses.

Faculty Expertise: UNC Chapel Hill’s faculty includes experienced clinicians and researchers who provide students with the latest knowledge and skills needed for advanced practice and educational roles.

Career Prospects: Graduates are well-prepared for roles in primary care, gerontology, and nursing education. The program’s emphasis on practical skills and patient-centered care ensures that graduates are ready to meet the demands of the healthcare industry.

21. University of Illinois at Chicago – Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The University of Illinois at Chicago offers an Online MSN program with specializations in family nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner, and nursing education.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Family Practice: Comprehensive care for individuals and families across the lifespan.
  • Gerontology: Focused care for aging populations, managing chronic conditions.
  • Nursing Education: Skills for teaching and mentoring future nurses.

Faculty Expertise: UIC’s faculty includes experienced clinicians and educators who provide students with the knowledge and skills needed for advanced practice and educational roles.

Career Prospects: Graduates are well-prepared for roles in family practice, gerontology, and nursing education. The program’s emphasis on practical skills and patient-centered care ensures that graduates are ready to meet the demands of the healthcare industry.

22. University of Texas Medical Branch – Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The University of Texas Medical Branch offers an Online MSN program with specializations in family nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner, and nursing administration.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Family Practice: Training in comprehensive care for individuals and families.
  • Gerontology: Focused care for the elderly, managing chronic illnesses.
  • Nursing Administration: Leadership and management skills for healthcare settings.

Faculty Expertise: UTMB’s faculty are dedicated educators and practitioners, bringing their clinical expertise and academic knowledge to the online classroom.

Career Prospects: Graduates are well-prepared for roles in family practice, gerontology, and nursing administration. The program’s strong focus on evidence-based practice ensures that graduates can provide high-quality patient care and effective nursing education.

23. University of Tennessee – Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The University of Tennessee offers an Online MSN program with specializations in family nurse practitioner, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, and nursing administration.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Family Practice: Comprehensive care for individuals and families, with a focus on preventive and chronic care.
  • Mental Health: Advanced training in psychiatric nursing and mental health care.
  • Nursing Administration: Leadership skills for managing healthcare teams and operations.

Faculty Expertise: UT’s faculty includes experienced clinicians and researchers who bring their knowledge and real-world experience to the online classroom, providing students with a robust education in advanced nursing practice.

Career Prospects: Graduates are prepared for roles in family practice, mental health care, and nursing administration. The program’s strong emphasis on clinical skills and leadership prepares students for successful careers in various healthcare settings.

24. University of Virginia – Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The University of Virginia offers an Online MSN program with specializations in family nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner, and nursing education.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Family Practice: Training in comprehensive care for individuals and families.
  • Acute Care: Advanced skills in managing acutely ill adult and elderly patients.
  • Nursing Education: Pedagogical training for educating future nurses.

Faculty Expertise: UVA’s faculty are leaders in nursing education and practice, providing students with access to the latest research and clinical techniques.

Career Prospects: Graduates are well-prepared for roles in family practice, acute care, and nursing education. The program’s strong reputation and comprehensive curriculum provide graduates with excellent career opportunities.

25. Rutgers University – Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Rutgers University offers an Online MSN program with specializations in family nurse practitioner, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, and nursing leadership.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Family Practice: Comprehensive care for individuals and families.
  • Mental Health: Training in psychiatric nursing and mental health care.
  • Nursing Leadership: Skills for leading and managing healthcare organizations.

Faculty Expertise: Rutgers’ faculty includes experienced clinicians and educators who bring their expertise to the online classroom, ensuring students receive a high-quality education.

Career Prospects: Graduates are well-prepared for roles in family practice, mental health care, and nursing leadership. The program’s focus on practical skills and leadership development ensures students are ready to excel in their careers.

26. University of Wisconsin-Madison – Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The University of Wisconsin-Madison offers an Online MSN program with specializations in family nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner, and nursing education.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Primary Care: Comprehensive training in providing primary care across the lifespan.
  • Gerontology: Focused care for aging populations and managing chronic conditions.
  • Nursing Education: Skills for teaching and mentoring future nurses.

Faculty Expertise: UW-Madison’s faculty are experienced clinicians and researchers who provide students with the latest knowledge and skills needed for advanced practice and educational roles.

Career Prospects: Graduates are well-prepared for roles in primary care, gerontology, and nursing education. The program’s emphasis on practical skills and patient-centered care ensures that graduates are ready to meet the demands of the healthcare industry.

27. George Washington University – Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

George Washington University offers an Online MSN program with specializations in family nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner, and nursing leadership and management.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Family Practice: Comprehensive care for individuals and families, focusing on preventive and chronic care.
  • Gerontology: Focused care for aging populations and managing chronic conditions.
  • Leadership and Management: Skills for leading and managing healthcare teams and operations.

Faculty Expertise: GWU’s faculty includes leading clinicians and educators who bring their real-world experience and academic knowledge to the online classroom.

Career Prospects: Graduates are well-prepared for roles in family practice, gerontology, and healthcare leadership. The program’s strong reputation and comprehensive curriculum provide graduates with excellent career opportunities.

28. Texas A&M University – Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Texas A&M University offers an Online MSN program with specializations in family nurse practitioner, nursing education, and nursing administration.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Family Practice: Comprehensive care for individuals and families across the lifespan.
  • Nursing Education: Pedagogical skills for training and mentoring future nurses.
  • Nursing Administration: Leadership and management skills for healthcare organizations.

Faculty Expertise: Texas A&M’s faculty includes experienced clinicians and researchers who provide students with the latest knowledge and skills needed for advanced practice and educational roles.

Career Prospects: Graduates are well-prepared for roles in family practice, nursing education, and healthcare administration. The program’s emphasis on practical skills and leadership development ensures that students are ready to excel in their careers.

29. University of Massachusetts Amherst – Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The University of Massachusetts Amherst offers an Online MSN program with specializations in family nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner, and nursing education.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Primary Care: Comprehensive training in providing primary care across the lifespan.
  • Gerontology: Focused care for aging populations and managing chronic conditions.
  • Nursing Education: Skills for teaching and mentoring future nurses.

Faculty Expertise: UMass Amherst’s faculty are experienced clinicians and researchers who provide students with the knowledge and skills needed for advanced practice and educational roles.

Career Prospects: Graduates are well-prepared for roles in primary care, gerontology, and nursing education. The program’s emphasis on practical skills and patient-centered care ensures that graduates are ready to meet the demands of the healthcare industry.

30. University of San Francisco – Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The University of San Francisco offers an Online MSN program with specializations in family nurse practitioner, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, and nursing leadership.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Family Practice: Comprehensive care for individuals and families, focusing on preventive and chronic care.
  • Mental Health: Advanced training in psychiatric nursing and mental health care.
  • Nursing Leadership: Skills for leading and managing healthcare organizations.

Faculty Expertise: USF’s faculty includes leading clinicians and educators who bring their real-world experience and academic knowledge to the online classroom.

Career Prospects: Graduates are well-prepared for roles in family practice, mental health care, and nursing leadership. The program’s strong reputation and comprehensive curriculum provide graduates with excellent career opportunities.