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2025 Best Online Nursing Programs in Alabama

By Brian Hepp • Updated 9/24/2024

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Our 2024 list of the top online nursing programs in Alabama is designed to help prospective students identify programs that meet their needs for flexibility, convenience, and high educational standards. Our list is comprised of Alabama-based colleges that offer online nursing programs and have available NCLEX data, allowing you to choose from the programs with graduates nurses who have the best pass rates. For inclusion on our list, the colleges with the best online nursing degrees in Alabama are based on the following criteria:

  • The nursing school has a primary location in Alabama.
  • The school offers an online nursing degree at the bachelor's level.
  • The nursing school has publicly available for 2023, which is sourced from government data. Pass rates are listed for the baccalaureate degree level.
  • Either all or the vast majority of coursework is completed online. Many of the best online nursing programs still require some in-person clinical hours, internships, or practicums.

If tuition costs are important in your decision-making process, we've also identified the most affordable nursing degrees for you to explore.

Want an online degree that's:

  • Affordable
  • Popular
  • Highly Rated
  • Military-friendly

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2025 Best Online Nursing Programs in Alabama

Tuition numbers were manually collected and verified where noted
School NCLEX Pass Rate Online Enrollment
Auburn University 100.0% 3,101
Troy University 100.0% 7,151
University of Mobile 100.0% 84
University of North Alabama 100.0% 3,346
University of Alabama 99.57% 5,820
University of South Alabama 97.98% 3,953
Jacksonville State University 97.52% 2,087
Auburn University at Montgomery 91.25% 993

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Becoming a Nurse in Alabama

Nurses in the state of Alabama practice under the jurisdiction of the Alabama Board of Nursing. The board grants three licenses for three different types of nurses

Licensed practical nurse (LPN)

Registered nurse (RN)

Advanced practice nurse (APN) 

Students can also be certified as a certified nursing assistant (CNA). 

There are several ways to obtain a nursing license. Applicants begin by attending one of the many nursing schools in Alabama, where they will complete the proper program or degree necessary for their chosen license. 

After satisfying this educational requirement, nursing candidates can take a standardized exam and apply for licensure. Applicants licensed in another state may apply for licensure by endorsement. Additional routes to licensure are available for nurses who have been previously licensed but have allowed their license to lapse.

To learn about online nursing programs and requirements in other states, explore our list of accredited nursing degrees by state below:

Nursing Degrees by State

Can I Take a Nursing Course Online?

Students can attend online nursing programs in Alabama to complete a portion of their coursework online rather than in person. Online RN programs in Alabama and other nursing programs offer comprehensive curricula to introduce nursing students to key concepts and skills they’ll need in their nursing careers. For example, students may learn about nursing leadership, clinical techniques, nursing research, and human anatomy from the comfort of their homes.

Students can also choose between taking just a few nursing courses or completing most of a nursing program online. Opting for an online program could be a good idea for learners who work full time and need flexible education options to fit their schedules. In contrast, taking just a few courses online could offer a bit more scheduling flexibility while still allowing students who thrive with face-to-face learning to attend in-person classes most of the time.

Some accredited online nursing programs in Alabama also feature bridge programs to help current licensed RNs complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree. For instance, the University of South Alabama provides online RN to BSN and RN to MSN pathways with coursework, labs, and a professional component required for graduation. Upon completion, RNs earn a nursing degree, which could help them advance their careers or fulfill continuing education requirements. It may also increase their salary potential in Alabama.

Students should find a program with approval from the Alabama Board of Nursing to ensure that their credits can apply toward their nursing license. Future nurses must also remember that earning an online nursing degree alone will not necessarily let them practice nursing in Alabama. Graduates may also need to pass the appropriate version of the National Council Licensure Examination.

How To Get a Certified Nursing Assistant Certificate in Alabama

CNAs are known as "certified nurse aides" in this state. CNAs are authorized to assist other medical professionals in various settings, such as community mental health centers, home health agencies, hospices, and hospitals. Interested candidates should enroll in a nurse aide program to acquire the knowledge and training necessary to work in this field. However, an Alabama nursing license is not required to work as a CNA.

But this doesn’t mean that CNAs are free from regulation in the state. After completing an appropriate nursing assistant program, CNA candidates must sit for the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam. Alabama uses this test to ensure that CNAs are practicing at an adequate level of competency. When a CNA candidate has successfully passed this test, they can become certified through the .

To keep an Alabama CNA certificate active, a nurse aide must prove active or prior work in an accepted facility, such as a nursing home or hospital, in the 24-month period before renewal. A CNA will be required to complete a new nurse aide training program to become recertified if they don't work in the field for more than two years. The state of Alabama does not issue CNA certifications by reciprocity.

How To Get a Licensed Practical Nurse License in Alabama

LPN candidates in the state of Alabama should begin pursuing this career by enrolling in a practical nursing program to prepare for entry-level positions as staff nurses in hospitals, clinics, doctors’ offices, and other medical facilities. Learners must complete this program at school that the nursing board approves. The licensure process can begin when a prospective LPN has acquired their practical nursing certificate.

Future LPNs can acquire an Alabama nursing license in three different ways. First, applicants can take the NCLEX-PN exam. If they receive a passing score, they will be eligible to apply for licensure by exam. 

Second, candidates can apply for licensure by endorsement if they have an LPN license in another state or country. Alabama does not grant immediate reciprocity, but the nursing board will evaluate applications and determine whether to grant an equivalent license. Finally, nurses who have formerly worked as LPNs in the state but who have allowed their licenses to lapse may apply for licensure by reinstatement.

Regardless of which application candidates submit, they will need to provide the board with certain additional documentation. This includes proof of citizenship or legal presence, proof of graduation, and the disclosure of any previous criminal charges. As with RN licensure, an Alabama LPN license is valid for two years. LPNs are required to by Dec. 31 of every odd-numbered year.

How To Get a Registered Nurse License in Alabama

An RN in Alabama begins by earning an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or BSN degree. A reputable nursing program provides aspiring RNs with the educational foundation and hands-on experience to help them achieve licensure.

Nursing candidates have several options when . The first step is to take and pass the NCLEX-RN. This is an industry-standard test with national recognition. Passing this exam can qualify candidates to apply for licensure by examination. Another option is licensure by endorsement for people who already have an RN license elsewhere. The Alabama Board of Nursing can grant an equivalent license at its discretion. Finally, nurses who have allowed their Alabama RN license to expire can apply for a license by reinstatement.

Each type of application must be accompanied by personal information, including proof of education, proof of citizenship or legal residency, and disclosure of any prior criminal history. Once granted, an RN license in the state is valid for two years. The renewal cutoff is December 31 of every even-numbered year.

How To Get an Advanced Practice Nurse License in Alabama

Candidates must first possess valid RN licensure to become . Second, a potential APN must earn an MSN or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. Finally, they must choose a field of specialization.

The Alabama Board of Nursing recognizes four such concentrations: 

  1. Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner (CRNP)
  2. Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)
  3. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
  4. Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)

To develop their specialization, candidates typically earn a graduate degree and a national nursing certification in that field. Graduates can then apply for an Alabama nursing license directly online. They must be prepared to submit official transcripts at the time of application.

Because an Alabama APN license is contingent upon having an RN license, licensure expires when a nurse’s RN license expires. APNs should apply to renew their licenses by December 31 of even-numbered years. In addition, APNs must complete 24 continuing education contact hours. Six of these hours must be in the field of pharmacology.

FAQs About Online Nursing Programs in Alabama

How Many Nursing Schools Are in Alabama?


The Alabama Board of Nursing lists 38 accredited schools and campuses with nursing programs in Alabama. Of these, 20 campuses offer LPN programs, 23 have associate programs, and 15 offer bachelor’s degrees in nursing. Although other schools in Alabama may have nursing programs, they will not lead to licensure. Only meet the requirements for licensure and, therefore, LPN and RN jobs in Alabama. 

How Long Does It Take To Become an RN in Alabama?


Becoming an RN in Alabama takes between two to four years, depending on the type of degree a candidate pursues. Associate degrees usually take two years to complete, while bachelor’s degrees typically take four years. Candidates then need to pass the NCLEX and apply for licensure, which might take another few months.

What Are the Requirements To Be an RN in Alabama?


Alabama RNs complete an associate or bachelor’s degree program approved by the Alabama Board of Nursing. These programs typically include clinical hours for students to get hands-on nursing skills in a healthcare setting. Upon graduating, learners sit for the NCLEX exam. A passing score leads to an Alabama nursing license. 

Student Reviews of Online Nursing Programs

Rosilee williams, Graduated 2022

Attended: Chamberlain University

Going back to school at 50 years old was a great decision. Chamberlain support system and the Preparation for an online environment made my experience stress free. The professors are accessible and grading system fair and well explained in all assignments. It’s simply the best option to choose Chamberlin University

Review Date: 4/8/2021

Attended: Chamberlain University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Rosilee williams, Graduated 2022

Rosa Torres, Graduated 2019

Attended: Chamberlain University

I am currently enrolled in the BSN online program. I was very nervous about starting classes but they really get you engaged in the content. The classes are small and the professors are inclusive. They answer your questions without hesitation, challenge you to think outside the box and give you feedback on all your assignments. The admissions department is knowledgeable and super friendly. There is no waiting on the phone or being transferred from department to department.

Review Date: 10/11/2018

Attended: Chamberlain University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Rosa Torres, Graduated 2019

Nursing student, Graduated 2019

Attended: Olivet Nazarene University

Please do not come to this school if you are latinno. You will be treated differently by the faculty and staff here. ABSN nursing program is very disorganized and they are professional about anything. You will be welcomed like a rockstar when they are trying to get you enrolled and the problems begin immediately after enrollment.

Review Date: 5/27/2018

Attended: Olivet Nazarene University

Overall Rating: 2/5

Experience Rating: 2/5

Instruction Rating: 2/5

Would Recommend: No

Helpful for Career: No

Nursing student, Graduated 2019

none, Graduated 2018

When reading the reviews of this school, the astute observer will note that students either love or hate their experience there. There is a minimal amount of ambivalence expressed and that is because for the pragmatist or the driven, the school is a Mecca. There is about as much opportunity for intellectual inquiry at WGU as can be found in your local Walmart. If you are willing to completely enmesh yourself in concrete, simplistic busy work and have a modicum amount of discipline, you can work your... Read More

Review Date: 2/14/2018

Overall Rating: 2/5

Experience Rating: 3/5

Instruction Rating: 2/5

Would Recommend: No

Helpful for Career: Yes

none, Graduated 2018

Edgar, Graduated 2017

Attended: Herzing University

This school was willing to work with me, even when I had credits from anther school, the staff was amazing and wonderful and they put me on the right path to finish my BSN. I have notice that they have work shops to help the individual with the APA format and this is truly a blessing.

Review Date: 7/10/2017

Attended: Herzing University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Edgar, Graduated 2017

Amy, Graduated 2017

Attended: Chamberlain University

The staff was excellent at helping guide me through the program. The on program was easy to navigate and the professors were always available if I had questions. The financial representatives were always available for my questions and very knowledgeable regarding how I should proceed with my class selections.

Review Date: 1/15/2019

Attended: Chamberlain University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Amy, Graduated 2017

Claire franz, Graduated 2014

Attended: Chamberlain University

I went here because everyone kept saying that there would no place for nurses with an ADN. I love school and learning so I thought I’d be enrolling in classes that would provide me with useful information in advancing my career and helping patients/families, boy was I wrong. About 1/3 of the classes I had already taken in my ADN or previous bachelor degree. For example, “Health assessment” this is nothing new, you have this class in your ADN program, it is a basic requirement to become a nurse. There... Read More

Review Date: 6/4/2021

Attended: Chamberlain University

Overall Rating: 1.5/5

Experience Rating: 2/5

Instruction Rating: 3/5

Would Recommend: No

Helpful for Career: No

Claire franz, Graduated 2014

Caitlin, Graduated 2024

Attended: AdventHealth University

I love AdventHealth! The financial aid, advisors, and Professors are all very kind and helpful. I haven’t had a bad experience and every time I call with a question I get an answer. Everyone knows what’s going on in their department. The Professors are all great and ready to help you succeed.

Review Date: 12/29/2021

Attended: AdventHealth University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Caitlin, Graduated 2024

Tonya, Graduated 2017

Attended: Herzing University

The nursing program at Herzing has been a great learning experience, all the professors are experts in what they teach! I loved coming to class and enjoyed the very educational clinical experiences! I recommend this school to those of you pursuing their BSN

Review Date: 9/22/2017

Attended: Herzing University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Tonya, Graduated 2017

M. Sayachack, Graduated 2020

Attended: Herzing University

Initially when I read the reviews for Herzing, the majority stated, "this school is all about money" and "they will fail you". I went ahead and joined in anyway because of the family feel the campus gave to me (Minneapolis, MN) and they were very willing to accept credits that I've taken >5 years. It was hard for me to accept taking part-time each semester because I had a lot of credits transferring over from my LPN program and Associates degree but I was actually able to manage my life with school.... Read More

Review Date: 9/5/2020

Attended: Herzing University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

M. Sayachack, Graduated 2020

Makenzie Ehrsam, Graduated 2020

Attended: Middle Tennessee State University

I am currently an undergraduate at Middle Tennessee State University. Overall I have thoroughly enjoyed the courses that I have taken and the professors. It is a beautiful campus with numerous opportunities available. The classroom sizes vary between 30 - 100+ students; my largest class that I have had so far was about 105+, which was for A&P I. The smaller class sizes allows for you to ask questions and to form a relationship with your professor, which will benefit you later on when needing recommendation... Read More

Review Date: 3/8/2017

Attended: Middle Tennessee State University

Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Experience Rating: 0/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Makenzie Ehrsam, Graduated 2020

Chi Diem Bui, Graduated 2015

Attended: Linfield University-Nursing & Health Sciences

I am currently in the last semester at Linfield Nursing College and I am happy to tell about my experience at Linfield. As a nursing student, I think I may not have as much training in skills due to clinical time limitation , but to me Linfiled BSN program is considered a good one compared to any of the other BSN programs around Portland. Linfield's not perfect, but every nursing program has its strengths and disadvantages. I still remember my feeling when I first started the program. It was so overwhelmed... Read More

Review Date: 8/5/2014

Attended: Linfield University-Nursing & Health Sciences

Overall Rating: 4/5

Experience Rating: 4/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Chi Diem Bui, Graduated 2015

Matthew J. Neal, Graduated 2014

Attended: Madonna University

The thing I love about Madonna university is it's seamless and shameless infusion of Christian humanist philosophy and principals. The campus and class sizes are small enough so you will never feel overwhelmed by being just another cog in the wheel. All of the faculty and staff share the same heart for education and students. I was my experience one semester that one janitor whom I happened to pass on a certain day of the week would always asks about the class I was going to and what I was learning.... Read More

Review Date: 8/9/2016

Attended: Madonna University

Overall Rating: 4/5

Experience Rating: 0/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Matthew J. Neal, Graduated 2014

Anonymous, Graduated 2014

Attended: Liberty University Campus

LU is a wonderful school and was a perfect fit for what I needed at that stage in my life. The nursing program is very difficult and takes a lot of work but it is well worth it in the end. The professors are amazing; they are so helpful and willing to work with you to make sure you understand the material and do their best to help you succeed. LU is also great about providing many opportunities for activities at all hours that is conducive to all schedules. There is also a wonderful team of student... Read More

Review Date: 11/30/2015

Attended: Liberty University Campus

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Anonymous, Graduated 2014

ANG, Graduated 2014

Attended: Avila University

Avila University provided me with the tools I needed to succeed within my new and upcoming nursing career. I successfully graduated, passed my board exam and found a job all within 2 months of graduating. Now, I will give myself some credit as I worked very hard for what I have accomplished, but I will say that the nursing staff at Avila guided and coached me to this milestone. As I attended KU for the first two years of my collage career, it was very apparent to me the differences in teaching and... Read More

Review Date: 8/7/2014

Attended: Avila University

Overall Rating: 4/5

Experience Rating: 4/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

ANG, Graduated 2014

Ruby Nguyen, Graduated 2013

Attended: Linfield University-Nursing & Health Sciences

Linfield Good Samaritan School of Nursing is one of the accredited colleges that I am grateful to be one of its students. After 2 years attending the nursing program at Linfield College, my knowledge has been fulfilled by professional instructors who also are compassionate and dedicated nurses. All the instructors always want to help students succeed in their choice of career. Before students come to the class, the instructors will assign them specific objects to be completed in order to help students... Read More

Review Date: 8/7/2014

Attended: Linfield University-Nursing & Health Sciences

Overall Rating: 4/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Ruby Nguyen, Graduated 2013

JayJ, Graduated 2011

Attended: University of Massachusetts - Boston

The nursing program at Umass Boston is tough however, the professors are very helpful and they want you to succeed. I learn a lot and I felt well prepared for the NCLEX. The simulation lab was also very helpful to prepare me for the real world of nursing.

Review Date: 7/20/2016

Attended: University of Massachusetts - Boston

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 0/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

JayJ, Graduated 2011

Kimberly Hubbard, Graduated 2006

Attended: Creighton University

I now currently in graduate school 10 years later pursing a MHA/MSN degree. Creighton teaching methods were consistent and rigorous even for a BSN program. I considered them the best BSN program in the Midwest. Quality instruction earned me a 4.0, valedictorian. I was able to tutor the other students. I wished we have more clinical hours. The first 2 years of a BSN program are spend in the 'general studies' portion and being a Jesuit college it required taking classes with 9 hours with a religious... Read More

Review Date: 11/6/2016

Attended: Creighton University

Overall Rating: 4/5

Experience Rating: 0/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Kimberly Hubbard, Graduated 2006

Catherine C, Graduated 1983

Attended: University of Maryland - Baltimore

At the time I studied nursing, University of Maryland School of Nursing (UMSON) was one of the top baccalaureate programs in the country according to the National League of Nurses. I moved from Pennsylvania to Maryland and relocated to attend school. I even waited a year, as I was accepted, but the class was full until the following year. University of Maryland School of Nursing prepared me well. I ventured into critical care with ease. At that time, I was employed by Johns Hopkins Hospital. They... Read More

Review Date: 12/28/2018

Attended: University of Maryland - Baltimore

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Catherine C, Graduated 1983

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