Western Governors University holds a wide lead across online degrees and certificates, frequently recommended for flexible, competency-based programs in fields like elementary education. For online nursing programs, however, The Ohio State University is the usual answer.
Since July, Academic Partnershipsfalling dropped out of recommendations across nursing degrees and nursing schools.
Latest insights
Week of Sep 21–27 · Since Jul 5
Western Governors University Slipping: AI answers in Online Degree and Certificate Programs name Western Governors University less often: mention rate declined from 46.7% to 38%
Southern New Hampshire University Gap between platforms: ChatGPT Search now names Southern New Hampshire University 15.2 points more often than Google AI Mode in Online Degree and Certificate Programs, a narrowed gap
Penn State World Campus Gaining: Penn State World Campus ranked #7 in Online Degree and Certificate Programs last week and #5 this week
Arizona State University Slipping: Arizona State UniversityDuke University moved ahead of Arizona State University in Online Degree and Certificate Programs
Arizona State University Slipping: Arizona State University dropped 1 place to rank #5 of 100 in Online Degree and Certificate Programs
31% of citations point at the ranked brands’ own sites. research.com, usnews.com, onlineu.com are the most-cited sites outside the ranked brands’ own domains.
I found several online MBA programs that combine business leadership training with data science or data analytics coursework and have AACSB accreditation, a respected, specialized accreditation for business schools.
One important distinction: most MBA programs use the term Data Analytics or Business Analytics rather than Data Science. If you want technical skills such as Python, predictive modeling, machine learning, and data management alongside an MBA, I would prioritize programs that explicitly include those subjects.
Best online MBA programs to consider
1. Pittsburg State University — MBA in Data Science and Information Systems
(Best overall match)
100% online · 30 credits · As few as 12 months
$11,970 estimated total tuition
This is the closest match to your request because the program explicitly names data science. Coursework includes SQL, database management, data visualization, predictive analytics, and business strategy. The business school is AACSB-accredited.
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For a student balancing caregiving responsibilities, which programs are most flexible with pauses, extensions, or cohort transfers?
which online accounting bachelor's programs are good for me?
2. Santa Clara University — Online MBA in Data Science and Business Analytics
Online · As little as 2 years · AACSB-accredited
A strong option if you want a more comprehensive blend of technical analytics and executive decision-making. The program combines traditional MBA subjects with specialized data science and business analytics training. Note that it includes two on-campus residencies, so it is not entirely remote.
Program:
3. Eastern Washington University — Online MBA in Data Analytics
100% online · 44 credits · As few as 10 months
$18,700 estimated tuition
A good choice for working professionals seeking a shorter program. Topics include statistical forecasting, data visualization, machine learning applications, and management decision-making. Its School of Business is AACSB-accredited.
Program:
4. University of Texas at Tyler — Online MBA in Data Analytics
Online · 36 credits · As few as 12 months
$32,147 estimated tuition
This option emphasizes data and text analytics, Python, business intelligence, and data-driven management. It is AACSB-accredited and may suit you if you want a stronger focus on practical analytical tools.
Program:
How I would choose
If your priority is…
My recommendation
A degree explicitly focused on data science
Pittsburg State University
Technical analytics plus executive leadership
Santa Clara University
Faster completion and moderate cost
Eastern Washington University
Python and business intelligence
University of Texas at Tyler
One accreditation point to verify: AACSB accreditation applies to the business school, not necessarily the entire university. Before enrolling, confirm that the institution also holds recognized institutional accreditation and that the degree meets any employer, licensing, or international credential requirements you have. You can check business-school accreditation through the AACSB directory.
Let me narrow this down for you
What is your approximate total tuition budget? That will help me identify the strongest options for your circumstances and distinguish a true data science curriculum from a more general business analytics specialization.
Fully accredited online MBA programs with a data science, data analytics, or business intelligence specialization combine core executive business training with hands-on technical programming, database management, and predictive modeling. Because "data science" in an MBA context is typically designated as Data Analytics or Business Intelligence, look for programs holding elite global accreditation like the AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business).[](https://online.lsu.edu/online-degree-programs/graduate/mba-data-analytics/)
Top Accredited Online MBA Options with Data Specializations
Review Prerequisites: Some quantitative specializations require prerequisite credits in basic calculus or statistics, though many offer foundation catch-up modules before starting core classes.
If you share your maximum budget, preferred completion timeframe , or whether you need a GMAT/GRE waiver , I can narrow down the exact program that matches your profile.
Yes. I found several AACSB-accredited online MBAs with a concentration/emphasis in data science, data analytics, or closely related business analytics. I’d separate the exact “data science” options from the broader analytics options.
Closest matches to a Data Science MBA
University
Online MBA concentration
Format
Length / credits
Published tuition*
Pittsburg State University
Data Science & Information Systems
100% online
~12 months / 30 credits
$11,970
University of Dallas
Data Science & AI
Online option
2–3 years / 39 credits
$50,700
Santa Clara University
Data Science & Business Analytics
Online, with 2 on-campus residencies
~2 years
Contact school
Eastern Washington University
Data Analytics
100% online
~10 months / 44 credits
$18,700
UT Tyler
Data Analytics
100% online
~12 months / 36 credits
$32,147
*Tuition figures are the schools' currently published figures and can change.
1.
This is probably the closest match to what you're asking for. The MBA explicitly incorporates data science and information systems, with coursework involving RStudio, SQL, Tableau, databases, predictive analytics and data visualization. It's AACSB-accredited, 30 credits, can be completed in about 12 months, and the university currently lists $399/credit or $11,970 total tuition.
2.
Another very direct match. The concentration covers machine learning, data modeling and AI-driven business solutions. The MBA is AACSB-accredited and the Data Science & AI concentration requires 39 credits. The university lists online delivery as an option and estimates 2–3 years depending on course load.
3.
SCU has an especially strong data-science-specific curriculum, including statistics, econometrics, optimization, R, Python, SQL/databases and Tableau. Its Leavey School of Business is AACSB accredited. The catch is that the online MBA includes two on-campus residencies, so I wouldn't classify it as completely remote.
Strong alternatives if “Data Analytics” works for you
Eastern Washington University — Online MBA, Data Analytics.
100% online, AACSB-accredited, 44 credits, as few as 10 months. The concentration includes statistical forecasting, data visualization, AI applications and machine-learning algorithms. Current published tuition is $18,700.
University of Texas at Tyler — Online MBA, Data Analytics.
100% online, AACSB-accredited, 36 credits, as few as 12 months. Coursework includes business intelligence, data/text analytics and Python. Published total tuition is currently $32,147.04.
Boise State University — Online MBA, Business Analytics emphasis.
100% online, AACSB-accredited, 49 credits. The 12-credit analytics emphasis includes Financial Analytics & Modeling, Data-Driven Decision Making, and Digital Marketing Management. Published 2026–27 tuition is about $36,840, or about $33,165 with its listed scholarship.
One important distinction
If your goal is to become a data scientist/technical analytics professional, I'd pay close attention to whether the curriculum actually includes things such as Python/R, SQL, statistics, machine learning, databases and predictive modeling rather than choosing an MBA merely because it says "Business Analytics."
On that basis, Pittsburg State, Santa Clara, and University of Dallas stand out as the most directly aligned with the phrase data science, while EWU and UT Tyler are strong alternatives if you're comfortable with a data analytics concentration.
If you tell me your budget (e.g. under $20k), desired completion time, and whether you need 100% no-residency online, I can narrow this to a short list and compare tuition, GMAT/GRE requirements, curriculum, admission requirements, and career focus.
Indiana University (Kelley) - MBA@Indiana : Features a highly ranked Online MBA Program offering a major in , blending rigorous management frameworks with machine learning and data-driven strategy.[](]()]()
To figure out which online nursing school is the best fit for you, it helps to narrow down your current education level, career goals, and scheduling needs . Online options vary widely depending on whether you are looking for an RN-to-BSN, an MSN (for education, leadership, or nurse practitioner tracks), or a direct-entry program.[](https://www.usnews.com/education/online-education/nursing)
Absolutely! I can help you find good online nursing schools that fit your goals, budget, location, and current education level.
Since nursing programs vary a lot, the biggest thing is choosing a school that leads to the nursing license you want—not just one that advertises online classes. Some programs can be completed mostly online, while others require in-person clinical rotations or skills labs.
I'll focus on schools that are practical options to investigate in North Carolina, including accredited programs and flexible options for working students.
Online nursing schools worth considering
1. East Carolina University (ECU)
(Best to investigate for flexibility)
Offers an online RN-to-BSN pathway for people who are already registered nurses. Some practice experiences still require real-world participation.
Website:
2. Fayetteville State University
A good option to investigate if affordability matters and you already hold an RN license. Its RN-to-BSN program is offered online.
Website:
3. UNC Greensboro
Worth considering if you're already an RN and want a flexible online bachelor's completion program. The program has asynchronous coursework options.
Website:
These are preliminary options, not a final ranking for you. If you're starting from scratch, we'll need to look at entry-level nursing programs instead.
Let me narrow it down for you
1. What is your current nursing or education status?
I'm new to nursing and haven't attended nursing school.
I've taken some college classes or nursing prerequisites.
I'm an LPN/LVN and want to become an RN.
I'm already an RN and want my bachelor's degree (BSN).
I already have a bachelor's degree in another field.
2. What is your goal?
Registered nurse (RN)
Licensed practical nurse (LPN)
Bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN)
Nurse practitioner or advanced nursing degree
3. What tuition range works best?
As affordable as possible; community college or financial aid
Moderate cost if the school is good
Flexible budget for the right program
4. What schedule do you need?
I need to work while attending school.
I can attend school full-time.
I need as much online learning as possible.
[Find my best-fit schools]
One important note: If you need to qualify for your first nursing license, don't assume a school advertised as “100% online” will work. Nursing requires hands-on clinical training, and North Carolina has specific requirements for program approval and clinical placements. Check the North Carolina Board of Nursing's approved programs before enrolling.
When looking for reputable online nursing programs, the ideal choice depends on your current education level and license status (e.g., RN-to-BSN, RN-to-MSN, or specialized Master's/DNP tracks). Fully online options typically deliver coursework digitally while arranging local clinical placements for hands-on requirements.[](https://nursejournal.org/degrees/best-online-nursing-programs/)
A list of reputable, accredited universities offering online nursing pathways includes:
If you want to earn a nursing degree online, there are several reputable universities to consider. The best choice depends on whether you're starting nursing school from scratch, already a registered nurse (RN), or looking to advance your career.
One important distinction: nursing degrees can often be completed largely online, but programs that prepare you for initial RN licensure generally require in-person clinical rotations and sometimes on-campus labs. RN-to-BSN programs are much more likely to be fully online.
Reputable online nursing degree programs
Here are some established options worth researching, including universities with online nursing pathways.
1. Western Governors University (WGU)
(Flexible pacing)
Best for: Working nurses who want flexibility.
Program: RN-to-BSN.
Format: Online coursework with a limited practical component.
Competency-based learning, transfer-credit opportunities, and the possibility of finishing in about a year.
Absolutely — I can research online nursing programs and help you narrow them down to ones that fit your goals, budget, schedule, and current education.
Since you're in the Phoenix, Arizona area, I'll focus on programs available to Arizona residents, including online options from accredited universities and schools that offer clinical placements in Arizona.
One important thing: Nursing programs differ a lot. Some let you complete coursework online but require in-person clinical rotations, while others are designed for people who are already licensed nurses. The best options for you depend on where you're starting.
My initial shortlist
1. Arizona State University (ASU Online)
(Best starting point)
Best if you want a recognized public university and a flexible online degree. ASU's RN-to-BSN can take around 14–24 months, but it's intended for people who already have an RN license and an associate degree in nursing.
If you'd like to narrow this down, let me know your target budget , whether you prefer asynchronous vs. live classes , and if you need a GMAT/GRE waiver.
Absolutely. There are reputable nursing programs with online coursework, but the best choice depends on whether you're starting nursing school from scratch, already an RN, or looking to advance your nursing degree.
One important distinction: nursing programs advertised as “online” often still require in-person clinical rotations, skills labs, or supervised practice. Fully online options are much more common for nurses who already hold a license and want to earn a higher degree.
For a reputable program, I would prioritize institutional accreditation, nursing-specific accreditation, state Board of Nursing approval, NCLEX eligibility where applicable, and transparent tuition costs.
Recommended online nursing programs
These are the schools I would put on your initial shortlist, based on their published accreditation, online format, and program details.
1. University of Illinois Chicago (UIC)
(Strong public-university option)
Best for: Licensed RNs pursuing a BSN
UIC offers a fully online, 30-credit RN-to-BSN program that can be completed in as little as 12 months. Its published tuition is $9,990, and the program is CCNE-accredited.
Best for: Academic reputation and career advancement
Its online RN-to-BSN program offers 30 credits of asynchronous coursework for licensed RNs with an associate degree in nursing. The program is CCNE-accredited.
The university's online RN-to-BSN program is CCNE-accredited. Its published program information lists tuition of $257 per credit hour for 35 nursing credits, before any additional fees or prerequisites.
WGU offers a CCNE-accredited online RN-to-BSN program, with tuition charged by six-month term. Its published rate is $5,325 per term. It also offers a prelicensure BSN pathway, but that option requires in-person labs and clinical rotations.
Best for: Exploring nursing from the beginning in NYC
If you are in New York and do not yet have a nursing license, Pacific College offers a prelicensure BSN with online didactic coursework and in-person skills labs and clinical experiences in New York City. The school reports ACEN accreditation and New York State registration. This is a hybrid program, not a fully online degree.
Tuition and completion times are published figures and may change. Your actual cost depends on transfer credits, prerequisites, fees, and residency eligibility.
How to choose a reputable program
Before applying, I recommend checking these four things:
Best for: RNs looking for a public-university option.
Program: Online RN-to-BSN.
Format: 100% online.
Why consider it: The university lists a 30-credit program, approximately 12 months to complete, and tuition of $9,990 at the published rate. Confirm current tuition and fees before applying.
Best for: Students who want to investigate additional online nursing pathways.
Programs: Nursing options vary by previous education and licensure.
Why consider it: An established online-focused university with nursing programs. Check the exact degree's admission requirements, delivery format, and current accreditation status before enrolling.
If your goal is to become an RN and you don't have a nursing license yet, the options above may not fit. You should look for an entry-level BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) or an ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) program that qualifies you for initial RN licensure.
These programs generally require hands-on clinical training, even when some academic classes are online. Check your state board of nursing's approval requirements before enrolling.
How to verify that a program is reputable
Before paying an application fee, check these three things:
When looking for a reputable online nursing degree program, the single most important factor is accreditation (ensuring the program is accredited by either the CCNE —Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education—or the ACEN —Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing).
Keep in mind that while didactic (classroom) coursework can be completed online, programs that lead to licensure or advanced practice require localized, in-person clinical hours.
Reputable institutions offering online nursing pathways span several well-regarded options:
University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB - Galveston) : Nationally recognized for online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) tracks like Clinical Nurse Leader and Executive Nurse Leader, requiring minimal on-campus visits.
Herzing University : A non-profit private institution offering flexible 100% online RN-to-MSN and post-grad tracks with structured help for clinical placement.
Duke University & The Ohio State University : Consistently lead rankings for advanced online and hybrid graduate tracks (such as DNP and various Nurse Practitioner specialties).[](https://www.usnews.com/education/online-education/nursing)
To help narrow down the best choice for you, please let me know:
What current nursing degree or license do you hold (e.g., LPN, RN with ADN, or brand new to nursing)?
What specific degree level are you targeting (RN-to-BSN, MSN, or DNP)?
Are you looking for 100% online coursework (with local clinicals) or a hybrid model?
Worth comparing if you are already an RN and want an online bachelor's degree with transfer-credit options. Confirm current tuition, admission requirements, and any local clinical or project requirements.
Worth investigating if you are starting from scratch and want to become a registered nurse. These programs include in-person clinical and lab experiences, so they are not fully online.
Before enrolling in any program intended to qualify you for nursing licensure, check its approval status with the Arizona State Board of Nursing.
Let's find the right program for you
I just need one key detail to make the recommendations personal: What is your current education or nursing status?
1. Where are you in your nursing journey?
I'm new to nursing and want to become an RN.
I'm a CNA, medical assistant, or LPN/LVN.
I'm already an RN and want my BSN.
I have a BSN and want an MSN or nurse practitioner degree.
2. What education have you completed?
High school diploma or GED
Some college credits
Associate degree
Bachelor's degree or higher
3. What's your approximate total tuition budget?
Under $10,000
$10,000–$25,000
$25,000+
I need financial aid or payment plans.
4. What kind of schedule works for you?
As fast as possible
Flexible, while working or raising a family
Part-time, with a lighter workload
5. How much in-person attendance can you manage?
Online classes only, if possible
Online classes plus local labs and clinicals
Either online or in person
[Find my best-fit programs]
Once you answer, I'll narrow this to a practical shortlist with estimated costs, program length, admissions requirements, and links to the official school websites.
To narrow down the best fit, it helps to look at the primary program types:
RN to BSN: Designed for registered nurses with an associate degree or diploma looking to earn a bachelor's degree. These are often fully online, highly flexible, and asynchronous (e.g., Ohio University).
