2025 Best Online Nursing Programs in Virginia
Virginia colleges offer a variety of online nursing programs designed to meet the increasing demand for skilled nurses in the healthcare industry. These programs provide flexibility and accessibility for you to balance academic, personal, and professional obligations. We've selected several schools with good NCLEX pass rates so you can determine which online nursing program is right for you. For inclusion on our list, the colleges are based on the following criteria:
- The nursing school has a primary location in Virginia.
- 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 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.
Additionally, if tuition costs are influencing your college choice, consider also looking at the most affordable nursing degrees.
2025 Best Online Nursing Programs in Virginia
| School | NCLEX Pass Rate | Online Enrollment |
|---|---|---|
| Old Dominion University | 98.44% | 8,674 |
| Sentara College of Health Sciences | 97.59% | 26 |
| Liberty University | 96.91% | 81,026 |
| Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing | 96.03% | 41 |
| University of Virginia | 94.19% | 1,038 |
| James Madison University | 93.55% | 1,036 |
| Virginia Commonwealth University | 92.86% | 2,680 |
| ECPI University Online | 91.67% | 6,524 |
| Marymount University | 89.13% | 864 |
| Norfolk State University | 85.72% | 682 |
| Hampton University | 85.71% | 374 |
| George Mason University | 83.65% | 7,421 |
| Radford University | 80.0% | 1,436 |
Becoming a Nurse in Virginia
(VBN) operates as part of the . The board is responsible for licensing all types of nursing professionals in the state. This includes registered nurses (RNs), certified nurse aides (CNAs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs). The board also awards advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) licenses for roles such as nurse practitioners and clinical nurse specialists.
The board has approved 33 pre-licensure nursing programs in Virginia, along with even more associate (ADN), bachelor's (BSN), and master's (MSN) degree programs at Virginia nursing schools.
There are nursing professionals working in the state, and Virginia's healthcare system is supported by some of the best universities and hospitals in the country. In addition to working in clinical settings, such as hospitals and physicians' offices, nurses in Virginia can also enter the field of nursing research or work with government agencies.
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 Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Washington
- Washington D.C.
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
How To Get CNA Certification in Virginia
The VBN uses the (NNAAP) to qualify its CNAs. This test was by Pearson VUE and is offered by the (NCSBN).
Before applicants can register for the exam, they must first complete an approved CNA training program and submit an application to , the credentialing service that the VBN uses for CNAs. There is no application fee for an initial CNA license. Applicants must also submit a fingerprint card and .
Virginia CNA license candidates must sit for the NNAAP once they submit their official transcripts, application, and associated fees. Applicants must take the skills evaluation and either the written or oral examination. There are about two dozen testing locations in Virginia where students can sit for the NNAAP test.
CNAs can also qualify for certification through endorsement. This is appropriate for nurse aides who have already passed the exam and been certified in another state. For these candidates, the application process can be completed entirely online on the board's website. Candidates attempting to obtain an Advanced Nurse Aide certification by endorsement should also follow the same procedure.
CNA Certification Renewal
A Virginia CNA certification is valid for two years. Applicants can generally start the renewal process 45 days prior to a certification's expiration.
How To Get an LPN License in Virginia
Nursing candidates can earn a Virginia LPN license in one of two ways.
First, there is licensure by examination. Prospective LPNs must obtain a passing score on the for practical nursing (NCLEX-PN) administered by the NCSBN before they're eligible to apply. They must also demonstrate that they have graduated from a state-approved nursing education program. Candidates whose nursing education was not provided by a state-approved school should contact the board to verify eligibility before applying.
Aspiring nurses can read our article all about the NCLEX, including what to expect and how to prepare.
Applicants must submit an online, along with a fingerprint card and criminal background check.
The board can grant a Virginia nursing license to candidates who qualify for licensure by endorsement. To be eligible, an aspiring LPN must already hold an equivalent license from another state. Candidates who have obtained their licenses in another country or whose education was not through a Virginia-approved program should contact the board prior to applying.
LPN License Renewal
To keep the license active, LPNs must complete 400 hours of direct client care every two years. Candidates can submit applications directly on the state's website up to 45 days prior to their license expiring.
How To Get an RN License in Virginia
There are three ways to apply for a Virginia RN license. The first option is to determine whether an applicant is eligible for licensure by endorsement. This applies to nurses who have graduated from an approved nursing program and who have been previously licensed in another state. Licensure by endorsement may also apply to nurses who have earned their licenses in another country as long as they can demonstrate evidence of an appropriate credentials evaluation.
The second way to obtain a Virginia RN license is to apply for licensure by examination. Prospective nurses who have graduated from a state-approved nursing program must receive a passing score on the NCLEX-RN. Some additional documentation may be required from graduates of nursing programs that did not provide 500 hours of direct client care, or whose nursing programs are not specifically approved by the state. These candidates are advised to contact the board directly prior to applying.
Applicants must submit official transcripts for their nursing program, itself, and any associated fees. They also need to submit a fingerprint card and criminal background check.
RN License Renewal
Once obtained, a Virginia RN license is valid for two years. To keep the license active, RNs must complete 500 hours of direct client care biannually. Applicants can complete licensure renewal beginning 45 days before a license's expiration date.
How To Get an APRN License in Virginia
To earn a Virginia APRN license, candidates must first have a valid Virginia RN license. Aspiring APRNs must decide which type of advanced nursing they wish to practice in the state. The VBN considers all APRNs to be NPs, including certified nurse midwives (CNMs) and certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs). The VBN offers additional certifications for prescriptive authority.
Candidates should submit applications for these specialized nursing licenses directly to the VBN. There are two ways to qualify for licensure: examination and endorsement.
Virginia recognizes NP examinations conducted by both the (ANCC) and the (AANPCB), as well as . The online application form also requires candidates to provide official college transcripts. Candidates for licensure by endorsement must submit verification of their current professional certification.
For applicants who apply by examination, a valid VA registered nursing license (or compact nursing license) is required, along with the online application and proof of certification that's consistent with the RN鈥檚 area of focus. This certification can only come from the .
There are three ways that NPs can prove their competency to the board:
- First, NPs can submit a transcript or letter from an education program that offers a graduate course in pharmacology or pharmacotherapeutics. This course must show graduation within the last five years.
- The second way is to provide an authorized statement asserting that the NP has completed 1,000 hours of active practice in the past two years. They must also show proof that they鈥檝e completed 15 hours of continuing education.
- The final way is to provide transcripts that show the NP has taken 30 hours of continuing education within the last five years, which includes training on applicable federal and state laws, prescription writing, drug selection, dosage, routees and interactions, information resources, and clinical application related to the area of practice.
APRN License Renewal
Advanced practice licenses are valid for two years in Virginia. Each APRN must submit a renewal request online.
FAQs About Online Nursing Programs in Virginia
Can I Become a Nurse With an Online Degree?
There are many accredited online nursing programs in Virginia that are suitable for earning a license. In fact, most nursing schools in Virginia offer online programs and courses that are just as legitimate as in-person degrees. These include online RN programs and online ADN programs.
How Long Does It Take To Be an RN in Virginia?
Nursing programs vary in length, but ADNs can take as little as two years and BSNs can take as little as four years to finish. After you graduate and pass the NCLEX-RN, it may take 30-45 business days for the VBN to evaluate and approve your RN application.
Is Virginia Good for Nurses?
Virginia鈥檚 cities are among the highest in terms of the metropolitan employment of RNs and LPNs. The median annual salary for an RN in Virginia was as of May, 2022, which is slightly higher than nationwide wages for these roles.
However, a statewide nurse shortage may cause working conditions to deteriorate in coming years as healthcare employers are forced to cover the same amount of patients with fewer workers. The problem is most severe in rural parts of the state.
Are There Online LPN to RN Programs in VA?
There are several LPN to RN online programs in VA. Some schools offer these in addition to ADNs, BSNs, and and graduate programs for NPs, such as MSNs or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degrees.
Student Reviews of Online Nursing Programs
Chamberlain University offers a flexible schedule through the online program. And the instructors are up and doing by providing relevant materials to the teaching. Also, the IT department is always available 24 hours a to help with technical issues.
Review Date: 3/30/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I enjoyed my experience at Aspen University. Every professor and every person I dealt with throughout the entire program were simply amazing! I am extremely satisfied with the knowledge I have gained from this program and highly recommend it to anyone considering their BSN program.
Review Date: 1/19/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Im currently about 75% of the way through my ADN to BSN program at GCU. The program is fine. I saw some others saying how it is so tough and I wonder how they got their ADN. This program is much easier than my ADN from a community college. Im not a great student or great paper writer, but I have got straight As in this program. That is a lot different than my Cs and some Bs in my ADN. It does take some time each week, but they give you a rubrics to follow. If you just answer the questions you will... Read More
Review Date: 8/21/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I enjoyed this program enough. The tuition was lower than some of the other options in state. I had issues with one instructor but luckily I didnt have to take any other courses with her. I like the 7-8 week class length. Most of the instructors were very nice and seemed supportive. The all online format was a god-send since I live on the AR-TX border and the Texas side universities cost more and require more prerequisites. Im proud to be a Razorback!
Review Date: 10/25/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
This program is literally one of the worst programs I've ever attended and they could care less that this is anyone's opinion. The school is majority online, the admissions reps will tell you there's a lab class where you get to interact more with your teachers and peers, but they set up lab to simply fulfil the lab requirements of this degree not because they have professors who are actually passionate about teaching or helping you through your journey of becoming a nurse. For the most part, you're... Read More
Review Date: 8/15/2018
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
This university was a blessing to me. I had not taken a college course in over ten years prior to enrolling at Aspen University. Aspen University did not require I repeat previous classes taken over ten years ago. The payment plan, online format, and no exams was a winning combination. The classes and reading assessments were challenging and I learned a lot. I am glad I finally completed my BA degree in nursing. I highly recommend this university to others. My goal is to enroll in the DNP program... Read More
Review Date: 3/27/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I absolutely loved my time at WGU. The mentors were helpful, easy to get in contact with and support was there time and time again. I did the degree for my employer requiring it for Magnet status. I have since been able to move to a management role. I would recommend this school to anyone looking to complete there BSN. I cannot speak in regards to the other programs.
Review Date: 6/26/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I started 2014, and I thought it will be a waste of my time because I would not graduate now 2016. I graduated with a BSN I am happy and my kids are proud to have a mother to finished. Love my instructors, love my school love to be a Capellan . You won't be wasting your time... Start now.
Review Date: 9/19/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
It's a lot of work but a good program. Tuition discounts are available if you work for a participating employer which includes just about everywhere a nurse could work. I haven't had much luck with career guidance and my advisor is not very good either. The instructors have been fair for the most part and many of them are quick to respond to any questions via email. Administrators, course chairs, and directors seem to give a genuine interest in the quality of the program and seek to make changes.... Read More
Review Date: 1/14/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I attended the online Penn State World Campus to obtain my Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing (BSN). Although I was a registered nurse, the program prepared and reiterated that I was not just a registered nurse but a professional healthcare worker. Every paper written and all communication had to exemplify diction of a professional. While taking classes and working full time, I was able to use what I've been learning to become a more professional nurse. I became a better advocate for my patients.... Read More
Review Date: 9/27/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Amazing nursing program. Professors and instructors are so caring and truly go above and beyond to help you succeed! No other nursing program compares. If you鈥檙e looking into a BSN program, I highly suggest Chamberlain as an option. Thank me later :)
Review Date: 11/25/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I hate to read all of the negative comments about the nursing program because I have had a great experience. It is difficult and accelerated, mostly if doing the A-BSN. It's doable but students need to take responsibility for the work. The 78% test average is also doable if you keep up with homework, lecture and readings. Every school is going to have their issues but I have had a great experience and all of my teachers were very supportive!
Review Date: 11/6/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Halfway through the FLEX 2nd degree nursing program. Overall, Villanova is a good institution. They have a lot of extracurricular experiences and networking possibilities. However, the instructors are not worth the money. My recommendation for a student returning to school for nursing would be to pursue an online program. The education they provide is primarily lecture based, and in my opinion you may as well study NCLEX prep materials for the RN licensure exam and get your degree online. If you... Read More
Review Date: 5/7/2024
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Been a nursing student for more than 5 years. I锔� have learned the lack of help this school truly gives to its students. They do not change policies that are harmful to the student body and prioritize their clean record on the NCLEX. Removing students who have the skills and give no options to pursue the field with the skills. Truly does a disservice to local hospitals like Hartford Healthcare. Truly at a loss for words for the lack of care these healthcare professionals have for their students. They... Read More
Review Date: 7/18/2023
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Chamberlain is the best nursing institute in the United States. I would recommend it to anyone wanting to go to a nursing school. The professors are well-informed and know the subjects they are teaching. Chamberlain put learning tools for anyone to succeed exceptionally if you are willing to succeed. Chamberlain faculties keep students informed and are available when you need them the most. There is so much Chamberlain offers to students. Come and be a Chamberlain breed. I am proud to be a Chamberlain... Read More
Review Date: 5/5/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
My college and degree program well prepared me for my career. My instructors were tough on me when they needed to be, this well prepared me for the pressure I will feel when I am a Registered Nurse. This field of study was very difficult but my instructors helped make it easier
Review Date: 9/22/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Do not go to this University. I am a student at the Main Campus. Professors are not clear with expectations. The administrators do not care about student success. Seems staff are openly prejudiced here. They do not like minority students here. The Dean of the program is openly prejudiced.
Review Date: 3/29/2019
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Pros: Highly honored program. Lots of support put in place to help the students to succeed. In a city with lots of hospitals. Cons: Expensive for out-state-students. Surround neighborhood is dangerous.
Review Date: 2/10/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Excellent university with excellent professors. I would highly recommend this college to students that wish to major in Nursing.
Review Date: 8/4/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The college of nursing adequately prepared me to pass my NCLEX/boards. It is close to so many hopsitals for clinicals including a pediatric hospital. The program has advanced technology to aide in learning i.e. sim man for simulations.
Review Date: 5/29/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
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