2023 Best Online Nursing Programs in Connecticut

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 — 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 Connecticut Board of Nursing 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.

Nursing Degrees by State

• Alabama
• Arizona
• Arkansas
• California
• Colorado
• Delaware
• 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
• West Virginia
• Wisconsin
• Wyoming

How To Get CNA Certification in Connecticut

In Connecticut, CNAs are certified by the Connecticut Department of Health. Individuals must apply for placement on the Connecticut CNA registry — 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: 

1. 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. 
2. 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. 

FAQs About Online Nursing Programs in Connecticut