2025 Best Online Nursing Programs in North Carolina
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Becoming a Nurse RNs APRNs FAQsExplore the best online nursing programs in North Carolina for 2024. While the demand for educational programs offering flexibility and convenience continues to grow, online nursing degrees have stood out as some of the most popular program options. For inclusion on our list, the colleges with the best online nursing degrees in North Carolina are based on the following criteria:
- The nursing school has a primary location in North Carolina.
- 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. Pass rates are listed for the baccalaureate degree level and sourced from government reports.
- 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 North Carolina
| School | NCLEX Pass Rate | Online Enrollment |
|---|---|---|
| Appalachian State University | 100.0% | 1,647 |
| Western Carolina University | 100.0% | 2,858 |
| Winston-Salem State University | 100.0% | 857 |
| Pfeiffer University | 100.0% | 242 |
| East Carolina University | 97.88% | 7,807 |
| University of North Carolina at Pembroke | 96.55% | 3,721 |
| University of North Carolina at Wilmington | 96.55% | 4,619 |
| University of North Carolina at Greensboro | 96.4% | 4,196 |
| Campbell University | 96.0% | 730 |
| Gardner Webb University | 95.92% | 897 |
| Cabarrus College of Health Sciences | 94.59% | 99 |
| North Carolina Central University | 93.94% | 1,593 |
| University of North Carolina at Charlotte | 93.64% | 3,111 |
| North Carolina A&T State University | 91.18% | 1,604 |
Becoming a Nurse in North Carolina
In recent years, the national shortage of trained and licensed nurses has made headline news. A study published by the points to high turnover, an aging nurse workforce, and a shortage of nurse educators as causes behind the need for more nurses. This shortage creates employment opportunities for people interested in pursuing nursing careers.
The North Carolina Board of Nursing is the state's regulating body for most nursing professionals in the state. The nursing board reports that there are currently more than North Carolina residents employed as registered nurses (RNs) and licensed professional nurses (LPNs). Nursing professionals work in a wide range of , including approximately 61,000 nurses in hospitals, 14,800 in ambulatory care, 10,000 in nursing homes and extended care facilities, and about 4,500 in medical practices.
Prospective nurses in North Carolina can pursue several different career pathways, each with its own set of educational and contact hour requirements for licensure and certification. Learn more about specific licensing requirements for certified nursing assistants (CNAs), LPNs, RNs, and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) in North Carolina below.
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
- Connecticut
- 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 Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Virginia
- Washington
- Washington D.C.
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
Can I Take a Nursing Course Online?
Yes, despite a nationwide shortage of nurse educators, at least 35 nursing schools in North Carolina offer various types of online nursing degrees. Nursing students can select from a wide range of options for online associate, RN-to-BSN, master's, and doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degrees, as well as nursing diplomas and graduate certificates. Some programs are fully online, while others are hybrid programs involving some on-campus instruction.
Before enrolling in any North Carolina school of nursing — online or traditional — prospective students may want to check a school's (available from the NCBON).
If you're interested in earning any type of nursing degree online, you may be interested in programs in nearby states, including South Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, and Virginia.
How To Get a Certified Nursing Assistant Certification in North Carolina
Certified nursing assistants can apply for through the North Carolina Board of Nursing. First, nurse aide applicants need to complete a state-approved training program and competency testing. These nursing programs are at least 75 hours in length, and they are offered at community colleges, healthcare facilities, and private companies. Then, applicants can submit their applications with a nonrefundable fee of $24. Applicants must also be listed as a Nurse Aide I on the North Carolina Division of Health Service Regulation-Nurse Aide I Registry.
Registration on the Nurse Aide Registry lasts for two years. To renew registration and licensing, CNAs must have completed at least eight hours of work within that two-year period in either a nursing home or another qualifying healthcare setting. Applicants looking to renew their North Carolina CNA license are responsible for reporting their employment history with the signature of a supervising RN.
How To Get a Licensed Practical Nurse License in North Carolina
Applicants for a in North Carolina must complete an accredited nursing school program recognized by the North Carolina Board of Nursing. This program is usually about a year in length, and transcripts must be sent to the board within 30 days of completion.
After completing the program, prospective LPNs must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) and obtain a CPR card. Applicants can register and pay the $200 nonrefundable fee for the NCLEX-PN at prior to sitting for the exam.
The cost of renewing a North Carolina LPN license is $100. North Carolina nursing licenses are valid for a period of two years. Licensed LPNs must submit a renewal application by the last day of their birth month in the year of expiration to renew their North Carolina nursing license.
Failure to renew the LPN license on time results in the license automatically being placed on the expired list, which means the LPN can no longer legally practice as a nurse until the license is reinstated.
How To Get a Registered Nurse License in North Carolina
Those who plan to hold RN jobs in North Carolina must obtain a state after completing a bachelor of science in nursing degree offered by an accredited nursing school program recognized by the North Carolina Board of Nursing. Transcripts from that education program must be sent to the board within 30 days of completion of the program.
Applicants must also pass the National Council Licensure Examination for RNs (NCLEX-RN), which measures core competencies needed for practicing nurses. Registering for the NCLEX-RN can be completed via , and there is a $200 nonrefundable fee to sit for the exam.
Beyond proof of graduation and a passing score on the NCLEX, applicants must submit themselves to a criminal background check and fingerprinting, and they will also need to furnish proof of legal name change, if applicable. Prospective RNs may want to consult the NCBON website for complete details on how to become a registered nurse in North Carolina.
North Carolina nursing licenses are valid for two years. For , applicants must submit a renewal application by the last day of their birth month in the year of expiration. Prior to submitting the application, RNs in North Carolina must meet , which can be one or more of the following: contact hours, active practice hours, and/or semester hours of continuing education.
Failure to apply for renewal before the license expiration date means the license is automatically placed on the expired list, and the RN may not legally practice as a nurse until the license is renewed.
How To Get an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse License in North Carolina
The North Carolina is the umbrella license awarded to registered nurses that have an advanced scope of practice, including the following:
- Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists
- Certified Nurse Midwives
- Clinical Nurse Specialists
- Nurse Practitioners
These nurses tend to have greater autonomy than other types of nurses, often having the authority to work without the supervision of a doctor. As such, an advanced formal education program (master's degree in nursing or higher) is required to obtain a North Carolina APRN license.
Applicants must first hold an RN license before applying to the North Carolina nursing board to practice as an APRN in the state. They must also be certified by the national certifying body for their specialty. Applicants for a North Carolina APRN license wishing to have the authority to prescribe controlled substances will need to fill out a separate application for the state's .
The North Carolina nursing license must be renewed every two years. — meaning fulfilling contact hours, active practice hours, and/or semester hours of continuing education — must be fulfilled prior to applying for North Carolina nursing license renewal.
FAQs About Online Nursing Programs in North Carolina
Are Nurses in Demand in North Carolina?
Yes, nurses are in demand in North Carolina. from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show above-average growth for all types of nursing jobs in North Carolina through 2030. For example, demand for LPNs is expected to increase by 9.2%, for nursing assistants by 10.8%, and for RNs by 11.5%.
Is North Carolina a Good Place To Be a Nurse?
Yes, North Carolina is a good place to be a nurse. Some of the top healthcare employers in the state include Atrium Health, Cone Health, Duke University Health System, and Mission Health System, and there are many other well-regarded employers. Registered nurses in the state make less than the national mean salary, but the state's low cost of living makes salaries comparable.
How Much Do Nurses Make in North Carolina?
BLS data shows that nurse salaries in North Carolina are lower than national figures. However, the state's , which is significantly lower than the national average of 100. More affordable living expenses may help offset the lower salaries.
| Occupation | Annual Mean Salary in North Carolina | Annual Mean Salary Across the U.S. |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurses | $71,200 | $82,750 |
| Licensed Practical and Vocational Nurses | $49,210 | $51,850 |
| Nursing Assistants | $29,410 | $33,250 |
| Nurse Midwives | $102,960 | $114,210 |
| Medical Assistants | $35,650 | $38,190 |
Student Reviews of Online Nursing Programs
The instructors at Troy are awesome and knowledgeable. This university also caters to the working parent as in myself as makes it makes convenience actually possible
Review Date: 10/12/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Review from a current student and RN manager: I am so beyond disappointed in Utica University . NOT a university for working parents or people with a busy lives ... seems like you need to know how to run a the bureaucratic side of a university in order to attend ... They have student success couches(ssc) who, as afar as I can tell, are only helpful if you want someone to pick out and register you for all your courses although they are at least nice people in that department. None of the departments... Read More
Review Date: 3/9/2022
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I have completed the RN to BSN program over the last 18 months. I have been very satisfied with each of the courses in regard to the case load required as I work full time. The instructors have been very available and responsive to any questions that I have had. The program has been very challenging and rewarding. I would recommend this program to those seeking an RN to BSN program.
Review Date: 12/29/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Aspen has been a great experience for me. I gained knowledge about nursing concepts and theories that I have been able to apply in my current practice. The instructors were there when I needed them and my counselor was always a phone call away. The tuition was affordable and I didn’t feel rushed to complete assignments since the guidelines for due dates were clear. I enrolled in one class a semester and was still able to complete my program in in under two years.
Review Date: 7/6/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Aspen’s BSN program was rigorous, but achievable as a working mom. Professors are helpful and supportive. I also appreciated the monthly payment program which made my degree affordable. I was intent on earning my BSN for career progression, and was recently promoted. I have recommended this program to several colleagues.
Review Date: 3/27/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
My name is A. L., and I am writing a review today on the Western Governors University Online Program, for Nurses wishing to receive a bachelors degree. When I graduated nursing school with my associates degree, I knew that I wanted to go back to school and receive my bachelors degree in nursing. After going through nursing school, I was extremely nervous about starting another program. Several of my coworkers suggested that I apply to Western Governors University. After doing my research, I decided... Read More
Review Date: 2/22/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I am very pleased with the education that I received at UCM; all around, it was a very good online experience. However, I did have a very bad experience with one of the instructors who is also over the Family Nurse Practitioner Program. I do NOT recommend taking her as an instructor, I would rate her at 1 out of 5. She grades hard and does not explain the assignments so you end up getting a low score. Stand clear from her. The other instructors were amazing and made you feel like they genuinely wanted... Read More
Review Date: 2/8/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Thoroughly enjoyed obtaining my BSN through Independence University Online Program. Teachers are very motivational and pleasant. Independence University strives to help you succeed. Would further attend the MSN program if my personal funding allowed.
Review Date: 6/3/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
This is quite possibly the most unorganized institution that I have ever encountered. I explored different options prior to enrolling in the BSN program and I absolutely feel as if I made a horrible decision. I am working on transferring out of this program due to the poor treatment from every member of administration that I have encountered. Now, don't get me wrong, the teaching staff is absolutely amazing. They are clearly dedicated and compassionate members of the healthcare field. However, the... Read More
Review Date: 9/27/2019
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Good school. I think the teachers here really care a lot about students and the nursing profession. I was worried because they were not accredited when I started but they are accredited through CCNE as of yesterday. I was going to review earlier but wanted to wait for the decisions of the accreditation.
Review Date: 10/18/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The departments do not communicate well. I don’t know if they’re still adjusting but it feels disorganized and a little chaotic. It feels really stressful when you have to keep up with their adjustments and late announcements/notices alongside your studies. Do not feel comfortable and safe with all professors, but you can get this anywhere. There are a lot of other little disappointments that just accumulate and make it feel worse.
Review Date: 4/11/2023
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
This college enabled me to graduate despite various challenges. I passed my McKee and was able to get a job. I am grateful that I was accepted here. The faculty and staff were very knowledgeable and helpful. Making a decision to come here is a no brainer.
Review Date: 7/4/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
For students wanting to earn a bachelor of science in nursing, I would not recommend this program. The cost of the program without financial assistance is too great for the value of education. The professors are nice, but the building and equipment are outdated. In addition, a lot of faculty was leaving during my time and new staff was unsure about the policies and procedures of the school. I believe that there are other universities that can provide equal or superior education at a lower cost. I... Read More
Review Date: 6/7/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I graduated from ECPI with a degree in nursing through their accelerated program in Orlando. Although I was well prepared for the nursing world and NCLEX, it was mostly up to me to do so because the instructors are not very good, and some are downright clueless. They also pass certain students (who failed) just to keep their grant status....many of the students I graduated with will not make good nurses. They love your money though! PS- they also lie quite a bit. Some classmates wanted to start the... Read More
Review Date: 2/12/2019
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
When I first started at Herzing Kenosha there were a lot of organizational issues. We had professors quoting half way through the semester and there really wasn't any structure. I've noticed that there have been a lot of improvements in this past year. I'm sure that within the next few semesters things will be more structured and students won't have to suffer for the lack or organization within the staff. There are some great professors at this school who really love to teach and you can tell it's... Read More
Review Date: 8/3/2017
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: Yes
Regarding the pre-requisites for Nursing school: the Chemistry/Biochemistry Department is fantastic. The professors for the Chemistry requirements are outstanding teachers and highly knowledgeable. There is also a science center located near the Chemistry department that offers walk-in tutoring and is very helpful. The biology department is not so great. The primary professor for Anatomy and Physiology is a terrible lecturer, has some ridiculous and impersonal policies, and also isn't very accommodating... Read More
Review Date: 12/29/2014
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
At the University of Massachusetts, the paths to success are endless. I had the opportunity to study in the school of nursing, and I can honestly say they preparation I received put me miles ahead of my peers when starting my career. Small class sizes, professors invested in our futures, and all the resources we need to be successful within the walls of this beautiful campus.
Review Date: 6/13/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
PBA is a small campus. I really liked it in my prerequisite time, but as in many small schools there are big cliques that you don't notice as much when you go to a big school. I enjoyed my experience with the friends I met, but unless you are part of a club called ILT or involved in a sports team you are nobody on that campus. Being a Christian university I thought things would be different, but the teachers still had their favorites they would do anything for and if you didn't kiss butt they didn't... Read More
Review Date: 10/5/2015
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: Yes
My time at Iowa Wesleyan University (College at the time I attended) was a time of great growth for me. I had to opportunity to attend classes with students from several different countries, and from varied cultures in the United States. To have this experience in a small town in Iowa was amazing. I not only learned the required skills and knowledge to be a successful RN, I also learned about myself and what I value. I learned how to interact with many varied people groups, and gained an appreciation... Read More
Review Date: 8/23/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I am attending Brookline College -Phoenix for the BSN program. I was happy that when I applied that two weeks later I was able to start. My scholastic records were received and reviewed quickly. Financial aid was supportive and helped me with all benefits possible. Financial aid also gave me other options to look into. The three teachers I have had so far are interested in your learning the material being covered. Tutoring is available. There is a school psychologist to talk with if needed. Appointments... Read More
Review Date: 8/9/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
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