[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The definition of an associate degree in prenursing varies by school, which can make it challenging to understand each institution’s offerings. The easiest way to understand these degrees is to think of prenursing associate programs as degrees that meet the academic requirements for state licensure as a registered nurse (RN).[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You can become an RN with an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or with a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). Only a few schools offer online ADN programs, so we developed the list below to help you find them.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Learn what you can expect from an ADN degree and discover how this program can help launch your nursing career.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Best Online ADN Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How We Chose These Schools”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]At TheBestSchools, we use trusted data from the U.S. Department of Education to evaluate schools without bias. Our ranking methodology helps prospective students from various backgrounds find the best fit. We consider key factors like academic quality, online offerings, and affordability, so every type of student can find the best fit for them.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This list has been updated for 2025. Learn more about how our formula works on [hen-ui-link href=”https://thebestschools.org/rankings/ranking-methodology/”]our ranking methodology page[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Is an ADN?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An ADN is a two-year associate degree in nursing that provides foundational nursing knowledge and skills. It qualifies you to apply for state licensure and take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Once you pass the NCLEX and receive your state license, you can practice as a nurse.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This degree also includes prerequisite classes for students planning to pursue a BSN. Though most ADN programs maintain accessible admissions requirements, prelicensure BSN and master of science in nursing (MSN) programs often demand more extensive preparation. Your ADN can help meet these stipulations.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Choosing an Online ADN Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]When researching online nursing programs, consider tuition, [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/nursing/”]nursing degree options[/hen-ui-link], admission requirements, and accreditation. Other factors worth taking into account include in-state tuition options, residency requirements, and [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/synchronous-vs-asynchronous-programs-courses/”]synchronous or asynchronous[/hen-ui-link] delivery models. The links below can help learners pick the right online program.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/resources/how-to-pick-a-college/”]How to Pick a College[/hen-ui-link][hen-ui-icon icon=”arrow-right” color=”primary” aria-hidden=”true” /][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]What to Look for in an Online College[hen-ui-icon icon=”arrow-right” color=”primary” aria-hidden=”true” /][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Accreditation for Online ADN Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Accreditation is especially important for nursing education. The school where you earn your degree should hold institutional accreditation from an accrediting agency with U.S. Department of Education or [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.chea.org/regional-accrediting-organizations” target=”_blank”]Council on Higher Education Administration[/hen-ui-link] approval.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Your nursing department should also hold programmatic accreditation from the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.acenursing.org/” target=”_blank”]Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing[/hen-ui-link] or the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.aacnnursing.org/” target=”_blank”]Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Earning an ADN from an unaccredited institution may result in ineligibility for licensure or employers not recognizing your degree. Furthermore, if you plan [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-nursing/”]to pursue a BSN[/hen-ui-link], your credits are less likely to transfer if they do not come from an accredited school.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What to Expect From an ADN Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Online ADN programs teach essential skills for nursing practice. Most ADN programs take two years of full-time study. You usually complete at least 60 credits to earn the ADN, including extensive clinical hours — field experience in a hospital or other healthcare setting.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]ADN Curriculum[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Though each school offers its own coursework, many programs include classes such as:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Principles of Nutrition: This class covers the basics of nutrition, including macro- and micronutrients, dietary guidelines, digestion, metabolism, and the role of nutrition in promoting health and preventing disease.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]English Composition: English composition is a reading and writing intensive course that can improve your communication and critical thinking skills.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Anatomy and Physiology: This class explores the structures and functions of the human body, including organ systems, tissues, cells, and homeostasis.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Microbiology: Students in this course learn about microscopic organisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Learners study microbial structure, function, growth, genetics, and pathogenesis.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Statistics: This class teaches enrollees to analyze data sets. Topics include the normal curve, regression, probability, and data sources and sampling.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Biology: In this introductory course, students explore the basic building blocks of life, including cells’ physiology, structure, and reproduction.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Core Nursing Courses: Core nursing courses include fundamentals of nursing; patient assessment; pharmacology; and nursing in specific subfields, including maternal health and gerontology.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Admission Requirements for an Online ADN Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nurses are in high demand, and gaining admission to nursing school can be challenging. Many ADN programs require you to complete prerequisite coursework at your school before you can apply for admission to the nursing program. Competitive programs may have higher GPA requirements.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Common prerequisites for ADN programs include:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”check”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]High school diploma or equivalent[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Minimum 2.5-3.0 GPA[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Qualifying ACT, SAT, or placement test scores[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Program-specific requirements like a nursing entrance exam[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Letters of recommendation[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Personal statement or essay[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Clean criminal background[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Obtaining Your Nursing Licensure to Become an RN[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]ADN graduates must complete several steps before they can practice as an RN. You can obtain an RN license after graduating with an ADN, BSN, or direct-entry MSN degree and meeting the following requirements:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Graduate from an accredited nursing program.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Pass the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.nclex.com/” target=”_blank”]National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses[/hen-ui-link] (NCLEX-RN).[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Apply for licensure with the state board of nursing where you intend to practice.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Submit required documentation, including transcripts, background checks, and application fees.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Maintain licensure by meeting continuing education requirements and renewing your license according to state regulations.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Top-Paying Careers for Registered Nurses[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-grid columns-lg=”2″ gap=”md”] [/hen-ui-grid] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]After earning your ADN, passing the NCLEX-RN, and getting licensed, you can work as an RN in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, community settings, home care, physician’s offices, schools, correctional facilities, and outpatient clinics.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]According to [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Degree=Associate_Degree_Nursing_(ADN)/Hourly_Rate/Page-6″ target=”_blank”]Payscale data[/hen-ui-link] from October 2024, the average annual wage for ADN graduates is $78,000. Salaries vary based on factors like location, experience, and industry.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-table-caption]RN Pay by Healthcare Setting and Industry, 2024[/hen-ui-table-caption] [hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]RN Settings[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Median Annual Wage[/hen-ui-table-head] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-body] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”RN Settings”]Government[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Wage”]$106,480[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”RN Settings”]Hospitals (state, local, and private)[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Wage”]$97,260[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”RN Settings”]Ambulatory healthcare services[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Wage”]$83,780[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”RN Settings”]Nursing and residential care facilities[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Wage”]$81,820[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”RN Settings”]Educational services (state, local, and private)[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Wage”]$74,360[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-body] [/hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]ADN vs. BSN: Which One Is Right for You?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The path to begin your nursing career depends on your circumstances and preferences. If you obtain an ADN first, your initial education will be less expensive and shorter. Consequently, you can start working quicker. You can even advance your education as you gain experience by enrolling in an [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-rn-bsn/”]RN-to-BSN program[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]However, an [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.aacnnursing.org/Portals/0/PDFs/Data/Research-Brief-10-23.pdf” target=”_blank”]American Association of Colleges of Nursing[/hen-ui-link] (AACN) survey from 2023 reports that 25% of healthcare employers who responded to the survey required BSN-prepared nurses, while 69.8% preferred hiring BSN nurses. BSN-prepared nurses can also pursue various leadership roles and have a higher earning potential than ADN graduates.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-grid columns-lg=”2″ gap=”md”] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Benefits of Starting with an ADN[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Lower cost and less time to complete than a BSN[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Can start working quickly[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]May have easier admission requirements for the nursing program[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Credits can be transferred toward BSN programs[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Benefits of Starting with a BSN[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Higher employment rate[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Better salary potential and career opportunities[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Preparation for an advanced practice degree[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Additional training in leadership and management[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [/hen-ui-grid] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Frequently Asked Questions About Online ADN Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Can I get an ADN degree online?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Yes, some schools offer ADN programs online. However, even if you take classes online, you still must typically perform your clinical hours in person. Usually, you can complete these requirements at the school where you’re enrolled or at a nearby facility. Online ADN programs are most common at community colleges, but some four-year colleges and universities offer these degrees as an entry point to their BSN.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Do hospitals prefer ADN or BSN?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.aacnnursing.org/Portals/0/PDFs/Data/Research-Brief-10-23.pdf” target=”_blank”]AACN reports[/hen-ui-link] that 25% of hospitals prefer hiring BSN-prepared nurses, and almost 70% prefer nurses with at least a BSN. This preference reflects BSN-prepared nurses’ ability to achieve better patient outcomes.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Can you finish your prerequisites while in a nursing program​?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Depending on the school, you may be able to complete your prerequisite coursework as you take nursing courses. At some institutions, however, you may need to finish all prerequisite classes before applying for admission to the nursing program.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What is a prelicensure nursing program?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A prelicensure nursing program is a degree that prepares you to take the NCLEX-RN and receive state licensure as a registered nurse. Prelicensure programs include associate degrees in nursing, some bachelor of science in nursing programs, and a few direct-entry master of science in nursing degrees.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-section-header title=”Discover More College Resources” /] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”2-col” ids=”346,172,201″][/hen-ui-article-row]