How To Attend Free Nursing School Online? Your Best Options

With a growing population, the demand for healthcare positions rises. For nurses in particular, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the field will grow much faster than average at 6% between 2023-2033. It’s possible to become a nurse without having to go into debt while earning your education if you choose to attend free nursing school. 

The appeal of free online nursing schools is becoming increasingly evident as they offer a practical and financially viable pathway for many aspiring nurses. These programs not only alleviate the financial burden associated with traditional nursing education but also provide flexible learning options that can fit around other life commitments, making them an attractive choice for those looking to enter the nursing profession. 

Here, we will share what you can expect from online nursing courses, as well as provide a look at some free nursing programs. 

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How to Become a Nurse

Before we get to the different programs available, it’s important to understand the typical steps required to become a nurse. Becoming a nurse involves several key stages, each building the skills and knowledge needed to handle the demanding yet rewarding nursing responsibilities. Each step plays a critical role in shaping a competent nursing professional from choosing a specific nursing path to achieving the necessary licensure. Let’s break it down:

Choose nursing path

There are various types of nurses, each with different roles and responsibilities. Here are a few options:

• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA): Assists patients with daily activities and basic care under the supervision of a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse.
• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) / Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN): Provides basic medical care, such as checking blood pressure and inserting catheters.
• Registered Nurse (RN): Provides and coordinates patient care, educates patients about health conditions, and offers emotional support to patients and their families.
• Nurse Practitioner (NP): Advanced practice registered nurses who can prescribe medication, diagnose

Earn a degree

Depending on the type of nurse you want to become, you will obtain the required education to do so. There is also the option to earn both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing online. Registered nurses can work with an associate’s degree as opposed to a bachelor’s degree, but it is possible for employers to prefer to hire nurses with bachelor’s degrees.

Obtain licensure

In order to practice as a nurse, you’ll have to pass an exam for licensure. Again, the type of exam required will depend on what type of nursing position you wish to obtain. Here’s an overview of what you can expect:

• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA): state competency exam, earn a state license
• Registered Nurse (RN): earn a nursing diploma, bachelor’s or associate’s degree, take the NCLEX-RN exam, earn a state license
• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): pass a state-approved certificate program, take the NCLEX-PN exam, earn a state license
• Nurse Practitioner (NP): earn a master’s degree, pass the NCLEX-RN and a national certification exam, earn a state license
• Nurse midwife (CNM): earn a master’s degree, pass the NCLEX-RN and national certification exam (if required), earn a state license
• Nurse Anesthetist (CNA): earn a master’s degree (DNP required if graduating after 1/1/2022), pass the NCLEX-RN and certification exam, earn a state license

The Average Cost of Nursing Education

There is a wide range of costs to attend nursing school. It depends on where you go to school, the type of program you enroll in, the length of your degree, etc. However, the costs of nursing school can quickly add up, especially when there is a tuition fee.

In America, the estimated cost for a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing (BSN) typically ranges between $6,000 and upwards of $60,000 per year (for private or large universities).

Compare that number to the cost of attending a nursing program in Norway, which is free at most public universities. Or, let’s consider the average cost of studying nursing in Australia, which tends to be between $20,000-$30,000 in tuition fees.

As you can see from just three examples, where you earn your degree can greatly affect the costs you will have to pay.

Free Nursing School Options

Despite the wide range of costly nursing school options, there are also affordable choices and even free nursing school options. Here are some examples of free nursing schools:

University of Agder

Located in Norway, the University of Agder offers a first-class nursing school program without costs. The only fees associated with attending are semester fees. Additionally, the country subsidizes public transportation. However, most courses within this program are taught in Norwegian.

Hochschule Bremen City University of Applied Sciences

Germany’s Hochschule Bremen City University of Applied Sciences (HSB) also is free, but requires a semester fee. Most courses are taught in German, although some may be in English. The nursing program is an International Degree Program in Nursing which requires students to spend a semester abroad with one of its over 300 partner institutions globally.

Hamburg University of Applied Sciences

Also located in Germany, the Hamburg University of Applied Sciences charges students less than 350 euros per semester which is paid towards the student government and student services. Otherwise, there is no tuition fee associated with the nursing programs, of which there are five to choose from (3 bachelor’s and 2 master’s degree programs).

The Arctic University of Norway

Neither domestic nor international students pay tuition to attend The Arctic University of Norway. There is only a semester fee of NOK 626 to cover administrative costs, such as: ID cards, counseling services, exams, and registration.

Source: Pexels

Free Online Nursing Programs

Here are some reputable free online nursing programs and courses:

Open University – OpenLearn Course

• Care Relationships: This course focuses on the dynamics of care relationships, teaching essential communication skills and strategies for building effective care relationships. 

Centers for Disease Control (CDC)

• Nursing Home Infection Preventionist Training Course: This program provides specialized training in infection prevention and control in nursing homes. 

Alison

• Nursing Studies – Diet Therapy: This course covers the basics of diet therapy, an essential component of patient care.

Coursera

• Planetary Health for Nurses (Yale University): This course explores the relationship between human health and the planet’s health, emphasizing sustainable healthcare practices. 
• Career 911: Your Future Job in Medicine and Healthcare (Northwestern University): Provides guidance on pursuing careers in healthcare, including nursing, and covers skills such as critical thinking and decision making. 

Nurse.com

• Free Continuing Education Units (CEUs): Offers a wide variety of free CEU courses on topics ranging from pediatric care to pain management. 

Related Degrees: Health Science

If you’re interested in healthcare but prefer a path outside of nursing, a tuition-free degree in Health Science from the University of the People could be the perfect choice. This degree can lead to various lucrative and rewarding career paths in the healthcare field. 

Final Thoughts

Nurses play a crucial role in healthcare, and the increasing availability of free online nursing programs makes it possible to pursue this rewarding career without the financial burden of traditional education. Aspiring nurses can gain the necessary skills and qualifications to enter the field by exploring various free or low-cost nursing schools and online programs. 

This approach alleviates financial stress and offers the flexibility to balance education with other life commitments, making nursing education more accessible to everyone. Take advantage of these opportunities to achieve your career goals in nursing without sacrificing your financial stability.

FAQs

Can I earn a legitimate nursing degree from free programs?

Absolutely. Provided the program is accredited, a degree from a free online nursing program is legitimate and can prepare you for a career in nursing just as well as paid programs. 

Can I transfer credits to free online nursing programs? 

Many free online nursing programs do accept transfer credits. However, the specifics can vary by school, so it’s important to consult the admissions office about their credit transfer policies. 

Do free online nursing programs offer specialization options? 

While options may be more limited compared to paid programs, some free online nursing courses do offer specializations. These could include geriatric care, pediatric nursing, or public health nursing. 

Are there opportunities for networking with peers in free programs? 

Yes, many free online programs facilitate networking through online forums, group projects, and sometimes live virtual events, helping students build professional connections. 

Are there prerequisites for enrolling in free nursing programs? 

Most nursing programs require at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Additional prerequisites may include specific coursework, healthcare experience, or entrance exams, depending on the program level and focus.