If you’ve been researching your options, you’ve probably asked: Can you get a nursing degree online?
The answer is yes — and no.
While many schools offer a nursing degree online, most pre-licensure nursing programs (for students who are not yet licensed nurses) still require hands-on, in-person training, especially for clinical experience. (1) (2) Nursing is a skill-based profession where learning to care for patients safely requires real-world practice under the supervision of a licensed instructor.
Carrington College offers a fully online option for licensed registered nurses through its RN to BSN program, designed for those looking to advance their education.
So while online nursing degree programs do exist, they are often structured as a blend of online coursework and in-person labs or clinical rotations. Getting a nursing education online and in person, or more commonly, a hybrid format, blends online theory with in-person clinical rotations. (2)
Below, we’ll break down what that really means, what Carrington College offers, and how to decide if this path fits your goals.
What “Online Nursing School” Typically Means
When people talk about attending nursing school online, they’re usually referring to programs that combine:
- Online coursework (lectures, assignments, discussions)
- In-person labs (to practice technical skills)
- Clinical rotations (hands-on patient care in healthcare settings) (2)
This structure reflects what’s known as a hybrid nursing program.
What Is a Hybrid Nursing Program?
A hybrid program blends the flexibility of online learning with required in-person training. Because of state licensing requirements and patient safety, 100% online pre-licensure programs are not approved by State Boards of Nursing in most states. (1) (4)
Carrington College’s Online Nursing Options
Carrington College offers nursing pathways that reflect this hybrid model, along with a fully online option for students who are already licensed registered nurses.
RN to BSN Program
Carrington College’s RN to BSN program is designed for registered nurses who want to continue their education to receive a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree.
- Format: Fully online
- Who it’s for: Licensed RNs
- Focus: Leadership, patient care coordination, and professional development
Because students are already licensed and experienced, this program can be completed entirely online without clinical requirements.
Other Nursing Programs at Carrington
For students who are new to nursing, Carrington College offers several pre-licensure programs. These programs are not fully in-person and can include online coursework. (1)
- Designed for students advancing from one nursing credential to another
- Format: Combination of online coursework and in-person clinical/lab training
- Prepares students for entry-level nursing roles
- Format: Includes classroom instruction, labs, and clinical experiences in person
- Prepares students to pursue licensure as a registered nurse
- Format: Includes classroom instruction, labs, and clinical experiences in person mixed with online coursework
- Focuses on foundational nursing skills and patient care
- Format: In-person labs and clinical experiences, with some coursework possibly online depending on location
Across these programs, the structure reflects a balance of convenience and hands-on learning, an essential part of nursing education. (1) (2)
Benefits of Online Nursing Programs
Choosing a program that includes online learning can offer several advantages:
- Flexibility: Online coursework allows students to complete assignments and lectures around their schedule to fit their lives.
- Balance: Students may be able to manage school alongside work or personal responsibilities more easily.
- Access: Online learning can make it easier to attend classes without commuting daily.
- Hands-On Experience: Programs still include in-person training, helping students build practical skills in real healthcare environments. (2)
Challenges & Requirements of Nursing Programs
While online nursing degree programs can offer flexibility, they also come with important expectations.
- Clinical Practice Is In-Person: Even if some coursework is online, students should plan to attend:
- Time Management: Online learning requires organization and self-discipline to stay on track with assignments and deadlines.
- Technology Needs: Students will need reliable internet access and familiarity with online learning platforms.
Are There 100% Online Nursing Programs?
For students who are not yet licensed nurses, fully online programs are uncommon. Most programs require in-person clinical training to meet licensing requirements. (1) (2)
However, post-licensure programs (such as an RN to BSN) are often available fully online.
Are Online Nursing Schools Legit?
This is a common question when researching nursing programs.
The key is to choose a program that:
- Meets state and licensing requirements
- Includes required clinical training (if applicable)
- Aligns with accreditation standards for nursing education (3) (4)
Programs that combine online and campus-based learning with in-person clinical experience are a widely accepted pathway into nursing. (2) (5)
Find Out if a Nursing Degree at Carrington College Is Right for You
So, can you get a nursing degree online?
Yes, especially if you are already a licensed nurse pursuing a bachelor’s degree. But for those starting their nursing journey, most programs will include a mix of online and on campus coursework and in-person clinical training.
At Carrington College’s School of Nursing, options reflect how nursing is taught today, combining online and on ground coursework with hands-on experience to help students prepare for real-world healthcare settings. (1) (2)
If you’re exploring how to get a nursing degree online or looking into hybrid nursing programs, the next step is to learn more about what each program involves and how it fits your goals.
Start your path in nursing. Request more information today.
References
- National Council of State Boards of Nursing. “Clinical Instruction in Prelicensure Nursing Programs.” https://www.ncsbn.org/papers/clinical-instruction-in-prelicensure-nursing-programs a b c d e f g
- American Association of Colleges of Nursing. “Fact Sheets: Distance Education in Nursing.” American Association of Colleges of Nursing Fact Sheets Library. https://www.aacnnursing.org/news-data/fact-sheets a b c d e f g h i
- U.S. Department of Education. “Accreditation in the United States.” https://www.ed.gov/accreditation a
- National Council of State Boards of Nursing. “NCLEX & Licensure Overview.” https://www.ncsbn.org/exams.page a b
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Registered Nurses.” https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/registered-nurses.htm a
