Investing in nursing school means investing in yourself — in your ambitions, your goals and your future. With that in mind, it’s important to know how much the investment will cost you and to learn about the many ways to fund it. Galen offers a range of nursing programs as well as various financial aid and assistance options. Figuring out the cost of your program so you can make educated decisions about what nursing degree you want to pursue is an essential step in your decision process. Galen College of Nursing is here to help you every step of the way, including breaking down financial aid terms you may be unfamiliar with.
Tuition Estimates by Program Type
The first thing to decide about your nursing education is which program you want to pursue. If you’re not sure which program is right for you, check out our full explainer on our program offerings. Not all Galen campuses offer the same programs, so be sure to check if the campus offers the program you are interested in. From there, determine the cost. At Galen, we are all about transparency when it comes to the cost of becoming a nurse. Below is a chart* of Galen’s tuition and fees by academic year and location:
Program Type
Annual Tuition, Fees and Associated Costs
PN Day Program (Kentucky)
$14,928
PN Day Progam (Florida)
$14,928
VN Day Program (Texas)
$15,600
VN Evening Program (Texas)
$15,600
Associate Degree Program 2 Year and Bridge (All Campuses) (1 Academic Year = 3 Quarters)
$16,164
Bachelor Degree Program Prelicensure (All Campuses) (1 Academic Year = 3 Quarters)
$16,848
RN to BSN Program (Online) (1 Academic Year = 2 Semesters)
$10,176
Master’s Degree Program (Online) (1 Academic Year = 2 Semesters)
$6,300
Doctorate of Nursing Practice Program (Online) (1 Academic Year = 2 Semesters)
$9,000
*This chart defines the annual cost and is subject to change. Please confirm costs with the Bursar’s office.
The next step in figuring out how much it costs to get your nursing degree is factoring in additional expenses outside of the tuition. As a student, you’ll need to buy textbooks, invest in supplies like scrubs and purchase occasional equipment. Below is a list of programs and the other expenses associated with them:
Program Type
Estimated Cost of Fees, Books and Supplies
PN Day Program (Kentucky)
$250*
PN Day Program (Florida)
$250*
VN Day Program (Texas)
$1,200
VN Evening Program (Texas)
$1,800
Associate Degree Program 2 Year and Bridge (All Campuses) (1 Academic Year = 3 Quarters)
$1,350
Bachelor’s Degree Program Prelicensure (All Campuses) (1 Academic Year = 3 Quarters)
$1,350
RN to BSN Program (Online) (1 Academic Year = 2 Semesters)
$1,200
Master’s Degree Program (Online) (1 Academic Year = 2 Semesters)
$1,200
Doctorate of Nursing Practice Program (Online) (1 Academic Year = 2 Semesters)
$1,200
*This estimate excludes the cost of books, as that expense is included in the tuition cost for this program.
How Galen Makes Nursing School Affordable and Accessible
Galen has your back every step of the way, from enrollment through graduation. This includes figuring out how much it will cost and how we can help make it both affordable and accessible. Whether you’re interested in pursuing financial aid, scholarships or private loans, our Enrollment Counselors will help you choose what’s best for you.
A scholarship, on the other hand, does not need to be repaid and can be awarded based on things such as academic performance, talent, specific areas of study or even financial need. While Galen College does not have a scholarship program, there are many other organizations that do provide these to our students. One of the most popular forms of financial aid comes in the form a student loan, which typically is given through the federal government but can also come from a private lender. Student loan officers can help guide you through loans, from how to take them out to how much you need and even what repayment plans look like.
If you’re already working in nursing or some other form of healthcare, your employer may offer to cover part or all of your nursing school tuition. Often this will come in exchange for a work commitment after you graduate. Make sure to check with your Human Resources representative. If an HCA Healthcare facility employs you, eligible employees can receive up to $5,250 in tax-free reimbursement each year for higher education expenses. Talk to your employer or a Galen Enrollment Counselor to learn more.
Financial Aid
When looking into financial aid, you’ll need to determine your eligibility for federal funding. Below is a helpful financial aid checklist you can use to assist in this.
Submit Your FAFSA: Start by going to studentaid.gov and log-in using your FSA ID. Galen’s school code is 015924. Be sure to have your SSN and tax information on hand!
Submit Required Documents: Go to your Galen Student Self-Service Portal to finish out the financial aid requirements. You’ll receive an email that has your login information within 24-48 hours of confirming your program and term start with your Galen Enrollment Counselor.
Complete Loan Documents: The last step is to submit your Entrance Counseling and Master Promissory Note! Return to studentaid.gov once more and log-in with your FSA ID. Go to Complete Loan Counseling and follow the instructions laid out for you. If you are a first-time loan borrower, you’ll complete Entrance Counseling. If you’re a returning loan borrower, you’ll complete either the Financial Awareness Counseling or Entrance Counseling. To finish up, you’ll go to Complete Loan Agreement (Master Promissory Note) and follow the instructions labeled Subsidized/Unsubsidized Loans.
Once this is all done, be sure to check your email often. If there is any other information Galen needs to finish up the financial aid package, we will be in contact with you! Once the financial aid award letter is completed, you will receive an email notification that it’s ready for your review. You’ll then find it in the Student Self-Service Portal.
Scholarship Opportunities
To learn more about possible scholarships and what might be right for you, speak with your Galen Enrollment Counselor. They can help you navigate all the available options. While Galen does not have a scholarship program through the college, there is a range of such scholarships available nationwide, many specifically for nurses. You can find a comprehensive list of scholarships near you and for you on studentaid.gov. In short, there is a range of scholarships available for you to apply to: General Nursing Scholarships, Location-Based Nursing Scholarships and Other Nursing Scholarships.
Academic scholarships can be life-changing for students. When Ulanda Campbell, a single mother of two, learned she earned the Next Generation Healer’s Scholarship, her reaction was unforgettable. “Oh my gosh. I was so excited. I was in class and screamed… It was life-changing.” Learn more about her story and the Next Generation Healer’s Scholarship.
Private Loan Options
Private educational loans, also known as gap funding, do precisely that. They help fill the gaps in tuition and other expenses to help you reach your goals. It’s recommended that you make sure to look at federal grants, loan options and scholarship opportunities before considering a private loan. Terms, conditions and interest rates are set by your provider, who may require loan payments while you’re still in school. They can be more expensive than federal loans, and you’ll need credit approval and potentially a cosigner. Talk with a student loan officer or Galen Enrollment Counselor to see if this is the right path for you.
There are free and public resources available to help you compare loans and find the best one for you. One option that many Galen students have had success with is FastChoice, a company that provides comparisons for you — you’ll then need to review each lender and their information. When reviewing, please take into consideration their interest rates, repayment terms, loan fees and other important information before making a decision.
Choosing Galen College of Nursing means more than just earning a degree — it’s an investment in a comprehensive, career-focused education built exclusively around nursing. Every program, resource and support system is designed with one goal in mind: preparing you to succeed as a nurse. From experienced faculty who bring their personal healthcare experience to simulation labs and clinical partnerships, Galen provides the tools and hands-on practice that give students the confidence and skills needed to thrive in the real world of healthcare.
Beyond academics, a Galen education offers access to a community of peers, mentors and networks that help students grow personally and professionally. With small class sizes, individualized support and guidance through every step of your journey — including financial aid, career placement and licensure preparation — Galen ensures that your investment in nursing school translates into tangible results: readiness for the NCLEX®, meaningful clinical experience and a fulfilling career in nursing. It’s an education that pays dividends in both your professional growth and your ability to make a real difference in patients’ lives.
How Galen Supports You Every Step of the Way
Nursing needs you, and we want to help turn your dreams into a career. Whether you’re just thinking about getting into nursing or you’re already an RN looking to gain new skills and responsibilities, Galen can help make that happen. We can discuss options for completing a degree quickly or a more flexible timeline for students with outside commitments. Whatever you need, we’re here to support you.
The future of nursing is bright. Find your place here.
If you’re considering enrolling in nursing school, you’re probably wondering, how long is it going to take before I can graduate and start working? Great question. The duration of nursing school depends on the program you choose. And knowing how long a program will take will be a big factor in your decision on which program is right for you. At Galen, we have pathways for folks new to nursing, all with different timelines. Program offerings vary by campus location. Check with an enrollment counselor to see which options are available near you. The practical vocational nursing program takes as little as 12 months to complete. Then you’re ready to sit for the NCLEX PN exam to become a licensed PN or VN. With this pathway, you can be in a position to start working sooner. And after obtaining your LPN -LVN, if you decide to advance your career and become a registered nurse, you can pursue an ADN through our bridge program, which takes an additional 18 months. The next pathway is our associate degree in nursing, or ADN program. This program takes as little as 24 months and is the fastest pathway to working and earning as an RN. The most extensive pathway to nursing is Galen’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing, or BSN program. This program takes three years to complete, and for a good reason. With a BSN, you can have an educational background and skill set to pursue specialty and leadership nursing roles. If you have qualified transfer credits from another institution, there is a chance the duration of the program will be shorter. A Galen Enrollment Counselor will be happy to start a credit transfer review during the enrollment process. Take the next step. Visit galencollege .edu and click Get Started in the top right corner. Or speak directly to someone at Galen at 877-223-7040. We’re here for you every step of the way. At Galen, nursing is all we teach, and your success is all that matters.
Explore resources on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website that can connect you with CareerOneStop for an estimation of earnings as a registered nurse in your area.
Galen’s Resource Fee covers college equipment, library and learning resources, and academic and technical support services.
HCA Educational Assistance - Galen Grant
The above provides general information about available programs. Tuition and fees subject to change. Please see Galen’s Cost of Attendance for complete information. Certain colleagues are not eligible to participate in these programs. This includes colleagues covered by a collective bargaining agreement (CBA), unless their CBA permits participation. These colleagues should go to HCAhrAnswers.com to view the program that applies.
HCA Educational Assistance - Online MSN
Please see the Online Campus Student Catalog for complete information. The above provides general information about available programs. Tuition and fees subject to change. Please see Galen’s Cost of Attendance for complete information. Certain colleagues are not eligible to participate in these programs. This includes colleagues covered by a collective bargaining agreement (CBA), unless their CBA permits participation. These colleagues should go to HCAhrAnswers.com to view the program that applies.
HCA Educational Assistance - Online RN to BSN
Please see the Online Campus Student Catalog for complete information. The above provides general information about available programs. Tuition and fees subject to change. Please see Galen’s Cost of Attendance for complete information. Certain colleagues are not eligible to participate in these programs. This includes colleagues covered by a collective bargaining agreement (CBA), unless their CBA permits participation. These colleagues should go to HCAhrAnswers.com to view the program that applies.
Explore resources on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website that can connect you with CareerOneStop for an estimation of earnings as a registered nurse in your area.
Applications will be accepted through July 15th for the September 2nd start.
Please note, some courses may be offered online, and offerings may vary on a quarterly basis. Contact your Enrollment Counselor to learn more.
Galen’s Online RN to BSN and Online MSN programs also include virtual simulation and specialty-focused electives. Learn more!
The DNP program is offered in January, May and September. Ready? Apply today!
Here are the transcripts needed for each online program:
Online RN to BSN: Associate Degree/Diploma in Nursing Transcript
Online MSN: Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing Transcript
Online DNP: MSN Degree Transcript and statistics course showing B or better
An external treatment professional is defined as a healthcare professional qualified in the diagnosis and treatment of learning, emotional, health, or physical disabilities.
Galen’s part-time PN/VN program is only offered at Louisville & San Antonio Campuses.
Galen offers three online programs for those who already have their RN license: RN to BSN, MSN & DNP (next term start is August 31, 2026) . These programs are offered in all states except for Washington. Tip: These are also known as “Post-licensure” programs, signifying nursing education after achieving a license as an RN.
Galen offers four On Campus programs for those who are new to nursing: BSN, ADN, LPN/LVN to ADN Bridge, and PN/VN. Programs vary by campus. Tip: These are also known as “Pre-licensure” programs, signifying nursing education before achieving a license as an RN.
Who is a readmission student? Any former Galen student who attended a program and experienced a break in enrollment from their program, either withdrawn or dismissed. This includes former students who are requesting to change programs or campus locations. This does not include graduates who are applying to a new nursing program. NOTE: If you have never been enrolled at Galen or graduated from a Galen program and would like to enroll in a new one, learn more about your next steps at How to Apply.
Who is a readmission student? Any former Galen student who attended a program and experienced a break in enrollment from their program, either withdrawn or dismissed. This includes former students who are requesting to change programs or campus locations. This does not include graduates who are applying to a new nursing program.
Learn more about career advancement opportunities in nursing with a graduate degree through this resource on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.
You may have the ability to take some classes online — if an online course is available at your campus/program and if you choose to take a course online. Courses in an online format vary by campus and program, and are not guaranteed. Ask your Enrollment Counselor for more information about online courses.
Please note, Galen does not accept transfer credits for undergraduate nursing courses.
The required general education hours for this program may be less than you think if you have qualifying transfer credit from another college. If you are interested in transferring to Galen, ask your enrollment counselor for a free transfer credit review to learn more about how many credits you need to complete your desired program. In the meantime, learn more about transferring to Galen.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program
LPN/LVN to ADN Bridge program
If you are interested in the Online RN to BSN, Online MSN, and Online DNP programs, these are your next steps.
If you are interested in the Practical/Vocational, 2-Year ADN, LPN/LVN to ADN Bridge, 3-Year BSN at your campus — these are your next steps.
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Tour the campus, chat with admissions or financial aid staff, and get your questions answered. No RSVP or appointment necessary.
Explore resources on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website that can connect you with CareerOneStop for an estimation of earnings as a licensed practical/vocational nurse in your area.
Explore resources on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website that can connect you with CareerOneStop for an estimation of earnings as a licensed practical/vocational nurse in your area.
Explore resources on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website that can connect you with CareerOneStop for an estimation of earnings as a licensed practical/vocational nurse in your area.
Explore resources on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website that can connect you with CareerOneStop for an estimation of earnings as a licensed practical/vocational nurse in your area.
Explore resources on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website that can connect you with CareerOneStop for an estimation of earnings as a licensed practical/vocational nurse in your area.
Explore resources on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website that can connect you with CareerOneStop for an estimation of earnings as a licensed practical/vocational nurse in your area.
Explore resources on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website that can connect you with CareerOneStop for an estimation of earnings as a licensed practical/vocational nurse in your area.
Explore resources on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website that can connect you with CareerOneStop for an estimation of earnings as a licensed practical/vocational nurse in your area.
Explore resources on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website that can connect you with CareerOneStop for an estimation of earnings as a registered nurse in your area.
Explore resources on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website that can connect you with CareerOneStop for an estimation of earnings as a registered nurse in your area.
Explore resources on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website that can connect you with CareerOneStop for an estimation of earnings as a registered nurse in your area.
Explore resources on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website that can connect you with CareerOneStop for an estimation of earnings as a registered nurse in your area.
Explore resources on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website that can connect you with CareerOneStop for an estimation of earnings as a registered nurse in your area.
Explore resources on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website that can connect you with CareerOneStop for an estimation of earnings as a registered nurse in your area.
Explore resources on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website that can connect you with CareerOneStop for an estimation of earnings as a registered nurse in your area.
Explore resources on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website that can connect you with CareerOneStop for an estimation of earnings as a registered nurse in your area.
Explore resources on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website that can connect you with CareerOneStop for an estimation of earnings as a registered nurse in your area.
Explore resources on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website that can connect you with CareerOneStop for an estimation of earnings as a registered nurse in your area.
Explore resources on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website that can connect you with CareerOneStop for an estimation of earnings as a registered nurse in your area.
Explore resources on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website that can connect you with CareerOneStop for an estimation of earnings as a registered nurse in your area.
Explore resources on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website that can connect you with CareerOneStop for an estimation of earnings as a registered nurse in your area.
Explore resources on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website that can connect you with CareerOneStop for an estimation of earnings as a registered nurse in your area.
Explore resources on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website that can connect you with CareerOneStop for an estimation of earnings as a registered nurse in your area.
Explore resources on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website that can connect you with CareerOneStop for an estimation of earnings as a registered nurse in your area.
Explore resources on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website that can connect you with CareerOneStop for an estimation of earnings as a registered nurse in your area.
Explore resources on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website that can connect you with CareerOneStop for an estimation of earnings as a registered nurse in your area.
Explore resources on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website that can connect you with CareerOneStop for an estimation of earnings as a registered nurse in your area.
Explore resources on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website that can connect you with CareerOneStop for an estimation of earnings as a registered nurse in your area.
Explore resources on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website that can connect you with CareerOneStop for an estimation of earnings as a registered nurse in your area.
Learn more about the types of patient groups you can work with as an RN through this resources on the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
“Post-licensure” is a term for nursing education programs you could choose after you’ve earned your RN license. Galen’s post-licensure programs include the Online RN to BSN, Online MSN, and Online DNP.
“Pre-licensure” is a term for nursing programs you would follow before you’ve earned your license as an RN. Pre-licensure nursing programs at Galen can include the BSN, ADN, LPN/LVN to ADN Bridge, and PN/VN. Programs vary by campus.
The start date for the MSN & DNP programs is January, 2025. Get started now!
The start date for the Online RN to BSN program is October 28, 2024. Get started now!
Some term starts may vary by campus or program. Find your campus to learn more.
Applicants may be granted conditional acceptance into the MSN program at the Program Director’s discretion. Students admitted must complete six (6) semester credits at the master’s level with an earned grade of “B” or greater in each course taken to gain full acceptance to Galen’s MSN program.
Applicants may be granted conditional acceptance into the Online RN to BSN program at Galen’s discretion. Students admitted with a conditional status must maintain satisfactory standing (a grade of ‘C’ or above and a cumulative GPA of 2.0) or may be subject to dismissal. Students will gain full acceptance upon obtaining RN licensure.
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Students accepted into Galen’s LPN/LVN to ADN Bridge Option within six months of graduating from Galen’s PN/VN program will be required to provide proof of current, active, unencumbered PN/VN license as a course registration requirement for NUR 202 LPN/LVN to RN Role Transition.
Galen PN/VN grads qualify with a 2.0 if the LPN/LVN Bridge program is begun within 2 quarters of earning your PN/VN diploma.
If you are transferring to Galen, ask your enrollment counselor for a free transfer credit review to learn more about how many credits you need to complete your desired program.
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Galen College
As one of America’s largest colleges of nursing, we focus solely on providing quality nursing education. Preparing confident, caring professionals for successful careers in nursing is why we’re here.
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