2025 Best Online Nursing Programs in Connecticut
Our 2024 compilation of top online nursing degrees in Connecticut allows you to examine universities providing online nursing courses across all academic stages, from an associate's degree to a master's in nursing. We've highlighted schools with available NCLEX data so that you can determine which schools have the best pass rates. For inclusion on our list, the colleges with the best online nursing degrees in Connecticut are based on the following criteria:
- The nursing school has a primary campus in Connecticut.
- The school offers an online nursing degree at the bachelor's level or an online RN to BSN.
- The nursing school has publicly available for 2023, which is sourced from Connecticut's government reports. 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.
2025 Best Online Nursing Programs in Connecticut
| School | NCLEX Pass Rate | Online Enrollment |
|---|---|---|
| Sacred Heart University | 97.0% | 1,221 |
| Western Connecticut State University | 91.0% | 397 |
| University of Bridgeport | 80.0% | 1,000 |
| Goodwin University | 70.0% | 1,614 |
Becoming a Nurse in Connecticut
In general, different career paths in nursing require different nursing degrees, such as a bachelor's in nursing. There are several nursing programs in Connecticut that offer tracks for students to enter the field as various types of nurses. With each individual program, students learn specific medical skills and techniques while gaining an understanding of various healthcare practices. Some nursing schools in Connecticut will have a licensed practical nurse track or a registered nurse track, while others may feature training for how to become a certified nursing assistant.
LPN programs in Connecticut cover a wide range of topics 鈥� from nursing fundamentals to microbiology and pharmacology. RN programs in Connecticut may include the same core coursework along with additional training in maternity care and pediatrics. These programs also help students prepare for their nursing certification and state nursing license.
The controls licensing in the state of Connecticut. Students hoping to receive their nursing licenses may attend nursing programs in Connecticut or outside of the state as long as they're accredited and meet the board's standards.
Below, you can learn about the licensing and certification requirements for certified nursing aides (CNAs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), registered nurses (RNs), and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) in Connecticut.
How Many Nursing Schools Are There in Connecticut?
There are currently 15 schools that offer nursing programs in the Nutmeg State. Prospective students can find online nursing programs in Connecticut at both the state college level as well as at private and public universities. There are LPN to RN programs in Connecticut that can be taken on campus, alongside LPN to RN programs online in Connecticut.
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
- Alabama
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Virginia
- Washington
- Washington D.C.
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
How To Get CNA Certification in Connecticut
In Connecticut, CNAs are certified by the . Individuals must apply for placement on the Connecticut CNA registry 鈥� an official list of nurses who are both qualified and certified to work in the state. Applicants must also complete a nursing training program approved by the Department of Health. Students must complete this program within 24 months of applying to become a nurse aide in Connecticut.
There is a printable application available on the board's website, and students must submit their completed application to Prometric, the testing administrator, along with the $118 exam fee. Students must have the training information section of the application filled out by the instructor who trained them during their nurse aide education program. The exam contains both a written and practical test, and students must pass both. After successful completion of these requirements, nurse aides will be placed on the state registry.
CNA Certification Renewal
Connecticut nurse aides must become re-certified every 24 months. To do so, they must show that they worked at least one eight-hour shift as a CNA and that they were given monetary compensation for this time. There is no required renewal fee for nurse aides in Connecticut.
How To Get an LPN License in Connecticut
Students hoping to obtain a Connecticut LPN license must complete nursing programs that meet the Connecticut Board of Nursing's requirements. These programs are at least 10 months long and contain 1,500 hours or more of coursework and practical application.
Applications for Connecticut LPN licenses require the successful completion of the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) for practical nurses, also called the NCLEX-PN. However, the individual must be registered for the exam online with Pearson Vue, the testing administrator, before submitting their application.
Students will need to submit their transcripts showing the diploma, degree, or other certificate received via their nursing program, as well as a $150 application fee. Individuals are approved to take the exam once they receive their Authorization to Test document.
LPN License Renewal
Those renewing their licenses must pay $70 to renew on a yearly basis. However, LPNs in Connecticut have no continuing education requirements to complete. Students interested in pursuing an RN track may benefit from an LPN to RN online Connecticut program.
How To Get an RN License in Connecticut
There are two main paths to obtaining an RN license in Connecticut:
- Individuals with a valid out-of-state RN license can receive a Connecticut nursing license by endorsement. With this process, the Connecticut Department of Health verifies the existing out-of-state license and approves the candidate as an RN in Connecticut.
- The second method is licensure by examination, through which a candidate must complete one of the many approved RN programs in Connecticut and successfully pass the NCLEX-RN exam to earn a license.
In addition, students must fill out an application online, pay a $180 application fee, and send in an official transcript that verifies their nursing degree. Once their applications are received and deemed eligible, students can pay the $200 examination fee and sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.
RN License Renewal
RNs are required to renew their licenses on a yearly basis. However, RNs are not required to complete continuing education for renewal in Connecticut. License renewals must be obtained online through the Connecticut State Department of Public Health. The fee for a renewal application is $110.
How To Get an APRN License in Connecticut
Connecticut nursing licenses for APRNs require the individual to hold a current RN license in Connecticut, along with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. Applicants also need a certification as a nurse practitioner, certified registered nurse anesthetist, or clinical nurse specialist from one of the following nationally recognized organizations:
- American Nurses Credentialing Center
- National Certification Corporation for the Obstetric
- Gynecologic and Neonatal Nursing Specialties
- Pediatric Nursing Certification Board
- American Association of Nurse Anesthetists
- American Academy of Nurse Practitioners
- Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation
- American Association of Critical-Care Nurses
Individuals must submit applications online through the Connecticut Board of Nursing's website. Candidates also submit verification of their certification and degree transcripts along with a $200 application fee.
APRN License Renewal
Those who hope to renew their licenses must pay a renewal fee of $130 and renew every other year.
Some professionals might be interested career changes for nurses that allow them to stay in the medical and healthcare fields.
FAQs About Online Nursing Programs in Connecticut
Are There Online Nursing Schools in Connecticut?
Nursing programs in Connecticut online are available to both in-state and out-of-state students. Tuitions range from under $10,000 at the University of Phoenix, a national online school, to well over $50,000 at private institutions such as Yale University.
How Long Does It Take To Become an RN in Connecticut?
RN programs generally take two to four years for students to complete. The length of time is based on whether the student enrolls in an ADN or BSN program. After graduating, an RN candidate must take a few months to register for the NCLEX-RN, pass the exam, receive test results, and receive a license.
Are There LPN to RN Programs Online in Connecticut?
LPN to RN programs are widely available online in Connecticut. They teach a deeper set of medical skills past what an LPN is allowed to pursue.
Beyond an LPN to RN program, some nurses may want to pursue an MSN in order to work in upper level roles along with higher salaries. Furthermore, there are healthcare administration degrees and nurse practitioner degrees that may be of interest to those who are looking for similar opportunities in the field.
Student Reviews of Online Nursing Programs
The RN to BSN online program basically has you teaching yourself as there is no class, just papers and PowerPoint assignments every week. The course is set up to make it easy to find your weekly module discussions and assignments. They have a library to use online to find journal articles for your assignments. This is a lot of work but i followed their "take 1 module at a time" advice. I work full time and have kids, but I made it work. The instructors are fair. I feel i learned a lot about the culture... Read More
Review Date: 3/30/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I started the WGU RN to BSN program on November 1, 2019. After starting the program, I had a lot of unexpected obstacles that I encountered along the way that would cause me to lose motivation at times. WGU may not work for everyone, but in my opinion, it really is a great school. It鈥檚 competency based, so there is no room for failure. There were assessments that I had to retake along with papers that I had to revise, but all in all it was a good experience. The program requires goal setting, dedication,... Read More
Review Date: 7/13/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The Bachelors Degfree in Nursing was most informative & enllighting: Equipped with supportive & great instructors , excellent tech support 24/7 and a wealth of resources at a student's fingertips. This Degree program of study was very both challenging and rewarding. I encourage every student enrolling at UOP to place emphasis on time mamagement, place prioritties, set goals , Press forward with determination , and be assured , your goals will be the driver of your success! Good Luck
Review Date: 8/7/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
With a pass rate of 74% for the year 2017, I highly encourage people to look elsewhere if you are searching for a college to obtain your BSN from. UWM is currently in the middle of changing their curriculum at the students' expense and overall experience. The college needs to update their simulation lab, change how skills are taught and tested, and increase their state pass rates. If I could do it over again, I'd go to a technical college and get my ADN. Seriously do yourself a favor and stay away.... Read More
Review Date: 8/2/2018
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I currently had three associate's degrees from other colleges and decided to get my BSN through the University of Phoenix. The school makes it simple because they do all the leg work for you. They set up your classes and provide assistance if you need it. I graduated with my BSN last month and had an outstanding experience. I completed it in 16 months. This program requires the student to be independent and a self-motivator to complete it. I graduated with a 3.79 GPA and I am starting my masters... Read More
Review Date: 8/23/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I love ISU. The teachers are great. They really treat me like an individual. The quality of the education is very high. I can't say anything bad about the school EXCEPT that they want me to do 210 clinical hours to complete the RN to BSN program. Many programs like this require little to NO clinical time. I feel this is excessive.
Review Date: 5/21/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
As a single first time mom I knew it was time to find a direction for my life, and I had always planned to continue my nursing education through our local community college. Unfortunately that institution only accepts 20 students a year and I did not want to risk wasting time waiting for an acceptance. I then heard about Chamberlain and decided to do an interview and absolutely fell in love with their program. The admissions process was a breeze, and the supportive staff was more than helpful for... Read More
Review Date: 11/24/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Have absolutely loved my experience with Chamberlain University College of Nursing. I was recommended to Chamberlain back in 2017. I was intrigued because they offer all of the prerequisite classes. Although I had some of them completed the fact that I was able to finish them at Chamberlain was really amazing. Once I started I learned that all of the professors truly care about their students and their success. They are available for help whenever needed. Lastly, through my clinical experiences,... Read More
Review Date: 11/30/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Do an extensive research before you rush into enrolling for their AOBSN for"15 months" . this is the length just of their nursing program before that you will need another 70 credit hours. The advisers will NOT tell you all the truth about being accepted in the program. Many people with great GPA stay on a wait list for years, because preference for acceptance is given to people who are employed by the hospitals they work with. This means you might have higher scores and be wait-listed , and somebody... Read More
Review Date: 3/6/2019
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here. My instructors have been knowledgeable, courteous, and kind. My classmates have been extremely supportive and helpful. I loved the fact that out class sizes were so small as it allowed the faculty to be fully engaged with us.
Review Date: 8/7/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I am enrolled in the accelerated BSN program. This is not a program for everyone! Nursing school is difficult. Realize the work and sacrifice needed BEFORE you enter school. Rasmussen provides an excellent opportunity to get a degree that will be recognized by employers. They will prepare you to PASS the NCLEX, most schools prepare you to take the NCLEX. I have had a great experience so far. To succeed you must be a dedicated student, you must do all readings and assignments ON TIME. You are learning... Read More
Review Date: 11/12/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I completed my ABSN program here at their Oak Brook location. This place is completely disorganized and worst of the worse schools I have been to in my life. I would never recommend anyone to come here. Save your money and go somewhere else. I would recommend Chamberlain or Resurrection than this place.
Review Date: 4/2/2017
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
No questions about it- my degree was extremely cost effective and the education it provided allowed me to be competitive in the job market immediately. My degree paid for itself in just 4 months of working.
Review Date: 6/30/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Chamberlain University has been an amazing experience. The on-campus professors at the Jacksonville, Florida campus are compassionate, nurturing, and willing to help you become the nurse you want to be. The workshops before and after class, the open lab, the peer tutors, the mentors, and the online workshops make paying the price of Chamberlain University worth it. Any issues I have had at Chamberlain University were quickly resolved. The average reply time of a professor is normally less than 24... Read More
Review Date: 3/30/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
This is an amazing university that offers top of the line products to use within the simulation lab. GCU is the only university in AZ that leads an immersive simulation program, which aids in the progression of the nursing practice. They teach off of evidence-based practice and make sure to keep information up-to-date. Very affordable! Staff and faculty are beyond supportive.
Review Date: 3/12/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I've been to three schools and this one has been the worst. The program director has to be the most useless woman on the planet. There are about 3 good instructors the rest are garbage. I might not even finish here because you aren't taught. You have to teach yourself. The biggest thing is that it always feels as if the teachers aren't actually there to help you, espically the director. It's always your fault when the whole class fails a test because you didn't study right. DO NOT GO HERE. IT'S NOT... Read More
Review Date: 9/20/2017
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
It's a great nursing program. The faculty and staff are really passionate about the field and the program. The only thing that I would complain about is the cost. The program is really expensive but well worth it.
Review Date: 7/7/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I knew Alvernia University was the college for me the moment I set foot on campus. It was a smaller college that was placed in the middle of a town with tons to do but in an area that felt like the middle of no where. The class sizes were small, for the most part, which made it more of a discussion atmosphere rather than a lecture. The professors were so laid back that you really felt like they had your best interest at heart and it wasn't just a pay check for them. I never met a single person -... Read More
Review Date: 12/11/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I graduated from Utica college in 2015. The nursing program is just like any other program HARD. I missed out on a lot of things in college because I was studying. A lot of reviews are saying there was no support. I was always able to meet with my professors after class or office hours to help for clarification of anything. Cynthia test were extremely hard but looking back she helped me learn to critical think before I even became a nurse . I didn鈥檛 love Utica college but I will forever be thankful... Read More
Review Date: 8/29/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Attending Winona State University (WSU) was a great decision for me! First, the city of Winona is small, but beautiful. It is nestled in between the beautiful bluffs on the boarder of Minnesota and Wisconsin. The gorgeous, picturesque bluffs are absolutely stunning when the fall color peaks in autumn. It would be worth your drive to visit during this time and drive up to the Garvin Heights overlook to take in the beauty of this area! Campus is in a great part of town, near downtown and near a lake... Read More
Review Date: 12/28/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
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