The Top Schools for Registered Nurses By State
Between the aging population and healthcare professionals still rebounding from COVID-19 exhaustion, the demand for nurses continues to rise. If you are considering a nursing career, choosing from so many nursing program options can be intimidating.
The following list highlights some of the best nursing programs across the country. Learn more about the top schools for registered nurses (RNs) by state, application requirements, and how these programs work.
We use a data-driven methodology to identify the best schools for RNs in many states, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.
Learn more about the key factors to consider when choosing a program, or go straight to our list of the top nursing programs across the country.
Learn More About the Best Registered Nursing Schools in the Country
Saint Anselm College
- Manchester, NH
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
A Catholic institution with a humanistic approach to patient care, Saint Anselm College prepares future nurses with a BSN.
Enrollees take courses, such as mental health nursing, adult medical surgical nursing, medical ethics, and theories of peace and justice.
Saint Anselm's students also have opportunities to participate in research and study abroad programs.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Manchester, NH
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Admission Requirements: Prospective students must submit ACT or SAT scores, high school transcripts, and all required recommendations
- Minimum Time Commitment: 48 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $68,860 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
9%
$45,360
88%
$45,360
- Acceptance Rate
- 78%
- Students Enrolled
- 2,111
- Institution Type
- Private
College of Saint Mary
- Omaha, NE
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
A Catholic university for women, the College of Saint Mary offers a three-year BSN, the only one of its kind in the region.
To graduate, students need to complete 128 credits, including 69 credits in the major. Courses include pediatric nursing, maternal newborn nursing, and transition to professional nursing practice.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Omaha, NE
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Admission Requirements: Complete prerequisites with a GPA of 3.0 or better
- Minimum Time Commitment: 36 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 82.1%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $63,690 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
61%
$23,340
68%
$23,340
- Acceptance Rate
- 44%
- Students Enrolled
- 733
- Institution Type
- Private
Calvin University
- Grand Rapids, MI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
A Christian institution in Michigan, Calvin University provides a traditional bachelor's degree in nursing. The justice-driven program centers on service, and students may participate in cross-linguistic volunteer work.
Calvin divides its curriculum into theory, strategy, and practicum courses. The 124-credit program concludes with a three-credit critical reflections experience.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Grand Rapids, MI
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Admission Requirements: Meet with an advisor and complete prerequisite courses
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
11%
$38,370
87%
$38,370
- Acceptance Rate
- 71%
- Students Enrolled
- 3,681
- Institution Type
- Private
Belmont University
- Nashville, TN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
A Christian institution of about 8,700 students, Belmont University offers a hybrid RN-to-BSN program for adult learners. New students can transfer up to 96 credits toward program completion.
Once enrolled, Belmont learners take 13 courses. These include nurse as scholar, nurse as team member, and nurse as leader. Students also complete a preceptorship.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Nashville, TN
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Admission Requirements: Associate or diploma in nursing, RN license
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 79%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $55,030 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
38%
$39,400
87%
$39,400
- Acceptance Rate
- 95%
- Students Enrolled
- 8,795
- Institution Type
- Private
Huntington University
- Huntington, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
A Christian school in Indiana, Huntington University offers an RN-to-BSN. Students meet on campus one night each week with a group of peers who remain together throughout the program.
The 128-credit degree requires at least 40 credits in the major curriculum. Courses include gerontology nursing, nursing research, and community practicum.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Huntington, IN
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Admission Requirements: Submit transcripts from all previous coursework.
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $48,430 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
16%
$29,030
77%
$29,030
- Acceptance Rate
- 71%
- Students Enrolled
- 1,504
- Institution Type
- Private
Catawba College
- Salisbury, NC
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Catawba College's RN-to-BSN program offers fully online courses in eight-week blocks.Students take two courses per term, and new learners can begin in the spring, summer, or fall semester.
The school requires courses, such as nursing informatics, community health nursing, and nursing the gerontological population. The program also includes a practicum.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Salisbury, NC
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Admission Requirements: ADN or diploma in nursing, RN license, pass criminal background check and CPR license
- Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 88%
25%
$33,400
73%
$33,400
- Acceptance Rate
- 75%
- Students Enrolled
- 1,377
- Institution Type
- Private
Northern New Mexico College
- Espanola, NM
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Northern New Mexico College offers a fully online RN-to-BSN program built on the theory of integral nursing. This program requires at least 34 upper-division courses.
Courses include community and global health, integral health assessment, and complementary and integrative theories in nursing. Non-residents pay the same tuition as New Mexico residents.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Española, NM
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Admission Requirements: ADN or diploma in nursing, license
- Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
64%
$ 5,064
61%
$14,328
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 1,310
- Institution Type
- Public
Arizona State University-Downtown Phoenix
- Phoenix, AZ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Arizona State University offers five pathways to a bachelor's degree in nursing — traditional, accelerated, RN-to-BSN, concurrent enrollment, and Eastern Arizona University partnership.
ASU provides an optional global experience for prospective nurses to study abroad. Students can take courses online and enroll at one of several start dates throughout the year.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Phoenix, AZ
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Admission Requirements: Accelerated BSN requires a bachelor's degree in another discipline; RN-to-BSN requires an RN license; traditional first-year students must meet academic requirements through GPA or testing
- Minimum Time Commitment: 14-24 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95.7%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $65,660 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
57%
$10,710
85%
$28,800
- Acceptance Rate
- 82%
- Students Enrolled
- 11,420
- Institution Type
- Public
Florida State University
- Tallahassee, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Florida State University offers a bachelor of science in nursing through both a traditional pathway and a fast-track program.
Prior to enrolling, students need to complete an associate degree or 60 credits of general education courses.
Students can complete the fast-track degree in 15 months, and FSU accepts 72 new students each year.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Tallahassee, FL
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Admission Requirements: GPA of 3.4 and science GPA of 3.0 or better
- Minimum Time Commitment: 15 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 94.7%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $58,920 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
61%
$ 4,640
96%
$19,806
- Acceptance Rate
- 24%
- Students Enrolled
- 43,871
- Institution Type
- Public
Stockton University
- Galloway, NJ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Stockton University offers a traditional BSN, an online RN-to-BSN, and an accelerated BSN for students who hold a bachelor's degree in another discipline.
RN-to-BSN learners must complete a total of 128 credits. Courses include life science, health assessment, and issues in nursing. The program also requires a community practicum and a senior project.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Galloway, NJ
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Admission Requirements: ADN or diploma in nursing, RN license
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93.6%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $71,950 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
51%
$14,016
79%
$22,520
- Acceptance Rate
- 89%
- Students Enrolled
- 8,631
- Institution Type
- Public
Elmhurst College
- Elmhurst, IL
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Elmhurst College offers an RN-to-BSN program through a flexible format. Students take classes in accelerated eight-week sessions over four semesters. To graduate, enrollees need 128 semester credits.
Courses may include ethical and legal dimensions of nursing practice and community and public health nursing. Students may complete clinical hours at one of Elmhurst's partner locations.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Elmhurst, IL
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Admission Requirements: RN license, minimum 48 credits with a GPA of 2.75 or better
- Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $63,830 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
49%
$41,258
80%
$41,258
- Acceptance Rate
- 74%
- Students Enrolled
- 3,954
- Institution Type
- Private
Weber State University
- Ogden, UT
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Weber State University (WSU) offers an RN-to-BSN program that prepares nurses for entry into graduate-level degrees. The curriculum encompasses the holistic practice of nursing.
Courses cover topics, such as population health, patient-centered care, and using research to guide patient care. WSU nursing students may also study abroad in China.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Ogden, UT
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Admission Requirements: Associate or diploma required. Seek pre-admission advisement before applying.
- Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 88.4%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $54,380 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
43%
$ 5,768
59%
$16,756
- Acceptance Rate
- 100%
- Students Enrolled
- 32,701
- Institution Type
- Public
Baker University
- Baldwin City, KS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Baker College offers a BSN on the campus of Stormont Vail Health. Students learn in Baker's state-of-the-art simulation lab and may undertake a service learning experience in Kenya.
Nursing courses include foundations of nursing, nursing of childbearing families, and nursing across the lifespan. LPNs can take advantage of a bridge program.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Baldwin City, KS
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Admission Requirements: Cumulative, math, and science GPAs of 2.7 or above
- Minimum Time Commitment: 48 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97.4%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $57,170 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
36%
$33,200
66%
$33,200
- Acceptance Rate
- 94%
- Students Enrolled
- 1,945
- Institution Type
- Private
Bellarmine University
- Louisville, KY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Bellarmine University's 33-credit online BSN takes 15 months to complete. Students can begin the program in fall, spring, or summer.
Courses may include nursing processes with adults and general principles of drug classification. Bellarmine also maintains a partnership with Humana and a deferred tuition plan that may help students manage costs.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Louisville, KY
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Admission Requirements: RN license, associate degree
- Minimum Time Commitment: 15 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $60,090 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
25%
$45,190
75%
$45,190
- Acceptance Rate
- 86%
- Students Enrolled
- 2,885
- Institution Type
- Private
Berry College
- Mount Berry, GA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Berry College comprises the world's largest college campus, with 27,000 acres. Berry's nursing program prepares students for compassionate care in a professional setting.
The degree requires courses, such as cross-cultural immersion and evidence-based practice. Students also complete clinical rotations at a site minutes away from Berry's campus.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Mt. Berry, GA
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Admission Requirements: Prospective nursing students must complete all of Berry's prerequisite courses prior to applying to the program.
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96.3%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $51,480 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
7%
$40,140
84%
$40,140
- Acceptance Rate
- 64%
- Students Enrolled
- 2,484
- Institution Type
- Private
Colorado State University-Pueblo
- Pueblo, CO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Colorado State University-Pueblo offers five pathways to a bachelor's degree in nursing. Students in the accelerated and RN-to-BSN programs can take courses online.
Simulations and labs take place on campus, and students complete clinical hours through CSU-Pueblo's partner organizations.
New enrollees begin in January except in the accelerated program, which starts in May.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Pueblo, CO
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Admission Requirements: Varies by pathway; for the RN-to-BSN program, applicants need an RN license and an associate degree in nursing
- Minimum Time Commitment: 14 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 91.9%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $60,970 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
57%
$ 8,850
64%
$19,140
- Acceptance Rate
- 98%
- Students Enrolled
- 6,851
- Institution Type
- Public
Lewis-Clark State College
- Lewiston, ID
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Lewis-Clark State College is north Idaho's only registered nursing college for four-year degrees. The school offers an LPN-to-BSN, an RN-to-BSN, a traditional BSN, and two nursing certificates. The BSN program lasts four semesters.
Courses may include nursing genetics, transcultural healthcare, and geriatric nursing. Students could also take a practicum and a guided preceptorship.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Lewiston, ID
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Admission Requirements: Requirements vary by program. For the RN-to-BSN, students must hold a current RN license and hold a GPA of 2.5 or better in all prerequisite courses.
- Minimum Time Commitment: Varies by program
- On-Campus Requirements: Varies by program
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95.7%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $65,130 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
50%
$ 6,612
61%
$21,534
- Acceptance Rate
- 94%
- Students Enrolled
- 3,801
- Institution Type
- Public
Towson University
- Towson, MD
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Towson University offers an RN-to-BSN program for licensed nurses in Maryland and compact states. Students can complete 90% of the program online, but the practicum requires face-to-face participation.
Towson's courses may include public health nursing, diversity and social justice in healthcare, and nursing research for evidence-based practice.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Towson, MD
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Admission Requirements: RN license, minimum 2.5 GPA, complete prerequisite courses
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 88.8%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $66,980 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
40%
$ 7,756
83%
$26,902
- Acceptance Rate
- 82%
- Students Enrolled
- 19,401
- Institution Type
- Public
Rhode Island College
- Providence, RI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Rhode Island College (RIC) offers both an RN-to-BSN program and a second-degree pathway to the BSN. Practicing nurses must complete at least 45 credits at RIC.
Students take maternal newborn nursing and public and community health nursing, among other courses. RIC provides assistance with clinical placement. The school offers courses during the day and in the evenings.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Providence, RI
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Admission Requirements: RN license, complete all prerequisites with a 2.5 GPA or better
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 98.4%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $65,610 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
22%
$10,107
73%
$26,666
- Acceptance Rate
- 92%
- Students Enrolled
- 6,158
- Institution Type
- Public
Winona State University
- Winona, MN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Winona State University offers currently registered nurses an opportunity to earn a bachelor's degree in one year. This 120-credit program requires online-only courses plus 60 community-based clinical hours.
Courses include concepts in nursing, holistic assessment, and research and evidence-based practice. New students may begin in the fall or spring semester.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Winona, MN
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Admission Requirements: RN license, 2.75 GPA or better
- Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $65,100 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
52%
$ 8,388
78%
$15,120
- Acceptance Rate
- 69%
- Students Enrolled
- 6,058
- Institution Type
- Public
Gonzaga University
- Spokane, WA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
A Jesuit institution, Gonzaga University provides a pre-licensure BSN program centered on reflection, community, servant leadership, and social justice.
The curriculum builds around a concept called Complex Adaptive Systems in which students build on their skills and experience one step at a time. Nursing courses include healthcare ethics and assessing and promoting wellness.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Spokane, WA
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Admission Requirements: High school seniors and graduates need to receive admission to Gonzaga before applying to the nursing program.
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97.4%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $71,930 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
18%
$52,540
93%
$52,540
- Acceptance Rate
- 82%
- Students Enrolled
- 7,470
- Institution Type
- Private
Fairfield University
- Fairfield, CT
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
A Jesuit university in New England, Fairfield University provides an RN-to-BSN program through a mix of online, in-person, and hybrid courses. This program requires students to take 19-22 nursing credits at Fairfield.
Nursing courses include professional nursing, health assessment, and public health nursing. Students also take at least nine credits of general education courses at Fairfield.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Fairfield, CT
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Minimum Time Commitment: 30 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $76,750 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
28%
$55,510
91%
$55,510
- Acceptance Rate
- 33%
- Students Enrolled
- 6,864
- Institution Type
- Private
Auburn University
- Auburn, AL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Alabama's Auburn University offers several paths to a bachelor's degree in nursing.
Registered nurses can pursue a three-semester RN-to-BSN program. First-year students must take prerequisite courses. Transfer students may go directly into upper-level nursing coursework.
Like other registered nursing colleges, Auburn requires clinical hours, which students usually complete in the Auburn-Opelika area.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Auburn, AL
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Admission Requirements: First-year students need a college preparatory high school experience with above a GPA above Auburn's middle 50%; applicants with a 3.6 or higher can take advantage of test-flexible admission; admission to the nursing program requires completing prerequisite courses
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 98.9%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation:$57,080 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
45%
$11,352
95%
$34,056
- Acceptance Rate
- 46%
- Students Enrolled
- 34,145
- Institution Type
- Public
Wittenberg University
- Springfield, OH
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
A Lutheran institution between Dayton and Columbus, Wittenberg University offers an RN-to-BSN program for nurses with an associate degree.
Students must take at least 24 nursing credits at Wittenberg. Courses include cultural competence in healthcare and evolving concepts in leadership and management. Students also complete a two-credit practicum.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Springfield, OH
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Admission Requirements: RN license by second semester, associate degree
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
7%
$43,656
74%
$43,656
- Acceptance Rate
- 91%
- Students Enrolled
- 1,343
- Institution Type
- Private
Carroll University
- Waukesha, WI
- 4 year
- Campus
- Accredited
A school of almost 3,500 students, Carroll University maintains a nursing major at the associate, bachelor's, and master's degree levels.
BSN students begin training with simulation labs before doing hands-on learning in a long-term care facility. Enrollees also complete 160 clinical hours in a nearby healthcare setting. Carrollton students may volunteer abroad during their program.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Waukesha, WI
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Admission Requirements: Carroll University evaluates high school transcripts and experience.
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 99%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $61,320 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
25%
$36,400
79%
$36,400
- Acceptance Rate
- 67%
- Students Enrolled
- 3,138
- Institution Type
- Private
University of Providence
- Great Falls, MT
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
At the University of Providence, registered nurses can pursue an RN-to-BSN program in a hybrid format. Full-time students take classes online for 12 months, and part-time learners participate in a cohort model education.
The three-semester program begins with a face-to-face orientation. Subsequent courses include global health nursing and ethics and spirituality in nursing care.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Great Falls, MT
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Admission Requirements: ADN or diploma in nursing, RN license, complete prerequisite classes with a grade of "C" or better
- Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $100,130 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
95%
$28,618
71%
$28,618
- Acceptance Rate
- 50%
- Students Enrolled
- 765
- Institution Type
- Private
Dillard University
- New Orleans, LA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
A United Methodist and United Church of Christ institution, Dillard University offers three pathways to a bachelor's degree in nursing — tradition, LPN-to-BSN, and RN-to-BSN. The degree requires 126 credits for completion.
Courses may include pathopharmacology, nursing informatics, and adult health nursing. Students also complete a community service project. Dillard offers all RN-to-BSN courses in a hybrid format.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: New Orleans, LA
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Admission Requirements: Admission to Dillard along with a 2.7 cumulative GPA and a 2.7 science GPA; admission for LPN-to-BSN and RN-to-BSN programs may require additional prerequisites
- Minimum Time Commitment: 18 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $59,250 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
63%
$19,194
70%
$19,194
- Acceptance Rate
- 41%
- Students Enrolled
- 1,122
- Institution Type
- Private
University of Central Arkansas
- Conway, AR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Located in a suburb of Little Rock, the University of Central Arkansas offers an online RN-to-BSN program. This program requires 30 credits, and students can study full or part time.
Courses include nursing informatics, pathophysiology clinical applications for RNs, and research and evidence-based practice. Graduates may qualify for admission to UCA's MSN program.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Conway, AR
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Admission Requirements: RN license, diploma or associate degree in nursing from a nationally accredited program, 2.5 minimum GPA, 1,000 hours of experience if the degree or diploma is more than 12 months old, completion of prerequisites
- Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93.7%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $58,840 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
48%
$ 7,806
73%
$15,612
- Acceptance Rate
- 89%
- Students Enrolled
- 10,112
- Institution Type
- Public
Delaware State University
- Dover, DE
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Located in Dover, Delaware State University (DSU) houses one of the state's primary registered nursing colleges. DSU students work in smart classrooms and simulation labs.
They can also take advantage of unusually high face-to-face interaction with professors. DSU's nursing curriculum includes courses, such as mental health nursing, child and family nursing, and transition to professional nursing.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Dover, DE
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Admission Requirements: GPA of 3.0, complete all prerequisites, proficient TEAS scores
- Minimum Time Commitment: 48 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 92.9%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $72,020 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
80%
$ 8,544
72%
$18,480
- Acceptance Rate
- 62%
- Students Enrolled
- 5,828
- Institution Type
- Public
Siena College
- Loudonville, NY
- 2 year
- Campus
- Accredited
Located in New York's Capital Region, Siena College provides an RN-to-BSN program for working nurses. Students pursue their degrees in a cohort model.
Siena's distinctive caring science curriculum helps prepare nurses to care for others and themselves. Upon graduation, students can qualify for a master's or doctoral program in the discipline.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Londonville, NY
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Admission Requirements: ADN complete or in progress, minimum 2.5 GPA and a "C" in all prerequisite and nursing courses, RN license
- Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
33%
$42,580
83%
$42,580
- Acceptance Rate
- 78%
- Students Enrolled
- 3,722
- Institution Type
- Private
Shepherd University
- Shepherdstown, WV
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Located on the Potomac River across from Maryland, Shepherd University offers an RN-to-BSN program for licensed nurses. Shepherd's school of nursing maintains a 37,000 gross square foot, two-story building filled with simulation labs, nursing classrooms, and a 120-seat lecture hall.
After graduation, students can apply to Shepherd's doctor of nursing practice.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Shepherdstown, WV
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Admission Requirements: Associate degree, RN license
- Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $61,020 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
61%
$ 6,288
72%
$15,774
- Acceptance Rate
- 96%
- Students Enrolled
- 3,318
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Mary Washington
- Fredericksburg, VA
- 2 year
- Campus
- Accredited
Located south of Washington, D.C., the University of Mary Washington (UMW) provides an online RN-to-BSN program. Students can transfer up to 90 credits and take 30 credits at UMW.
Nursing courses include medical ethics, writing for arts and healing, and informatics and healthcare technologies. Students also complete a practicum.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Fredericksburg, VA
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Admission Requirements: ADN or diploma in nursing, RN license
- On-Campus Requirements: No
32%
$ 9,390
84%
$22,965
- Acceptance Rate
- 80%
- Students Enrolled
- 3,826
- Institution Type
- Public
South Dakota State University
- Brookings, SD
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Nurses across the U.S. can pursue South Dakota State University's (SDSU) online RN-to-BSN program. The curriculum emphasizes rural and underserved populations.
SDSU students complete at least 30 credits by taking seven-week courses online. Coursework may include vulnerable populations: nursing perspectives and rural healthcare matters. Students also complete a nursing capstone.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Brookings, SD
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Admission Requirements: Associate degree in nursing, 2.5 GPA or better, RN license
- Minimum Time Commitment: 10 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 92.4%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $57,860 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
51%
$ 7,998
84%
$11,610
- Acceptance Rate
- 98%
- Students Enrolled
- 12,065
- Institution Type
- Public
North Dakota State University-Main Campus
- Fargo, ND
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Registered nurses can pursue North Dakota State University's BSN through a fully online program. Students take courses in eight-week blocks and can complete the program in five semesters.
Courses include chronicity throughout the lifespan and transcultural nursing care. Each semester, learners participate in a day-and-a-half virtual immersion.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Fargo, ND
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Admission Requirements: ADN, minimum 2.75 GPA, RN license, pass CPR and background check
- Minimum Time Commitment: 30 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96.6%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $62,400 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
58%
$ 9,868
78%
$14,802
- Acceptance Rate
- 95%
- Students Enrolled
- 11,952
- Institution Type
- Public
Endicott College
- Beverly, MA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
RN-to-BSN students at Endicott College can complete their bachelor's degrees in 15-16 months. The school accepts up to 85 transfer credits and provides a cohort-model to support peer interaction.
This program requires 126 credits. Courses may include pathophysiology, acute care nursing, and care of childbearing families. Students also complete a senior thesis.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Beverly, MA
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Admission Requirements: RN license, ADN from an ACEN-accredited program, minimum 2.5 GPA
- Minimum Time Commitment: 16 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 91%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $69,080 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
39%
$38,312
88%
$38,312
- Acceptance Rate
- 72%
- Students Enrolled
- 4,254
- Institution Type
- Private
University of Hawaii at Hilo
- Hilo, HI
- 4 year
- Campus
- Accredited
The University of Hawaii at Hilo offers an RN-to-BSN program for a diverse student population. Learners take all theory classes online and participate in a clinical component in three other classes.
Courses include health assessment, nursing research, and transcultural care and health promotion. Students living on Oʻahu can complete the program through Kapiʻolani Community College.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Hilo, HI
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Admission Requirements: RN license, complete all prerequisite courses and general education requirements, live on Maui, Oʻahu, Kauaʻi or Hawaiʻi Islands
- Minimum Time Commitment: 18 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 73.5%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $72,360 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
74%
$ 7,448
73%
$20,448
- Acceptance Rate
- 60%
- Students Enrolled
- 2,668
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Alaska Anchorage
- Anchorage, AK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The University of Alaska Anchorage offers an RN-to-BSN program. Licensed nurses who hold an associate degree from one of the registered nursing colleges may transfer up to 31 credits into UAA.
Courses include nursing research, management in nursing, and an integrative capstone. Students may do most clinical hours in their home communities but should expect at least three trips to Anchorage.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Anchorage, AK
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Admission Requirements: AAS, RN licensure, complete all 27 prerequisite credits with a 3.0 or better, take Kira Assessment and TEAS exam
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 91%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $72,100 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
72%
$ 6,960
71%
$25,950
- Acceptance Rate
- 60%
- Students Enrolled
- 10,574
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Houston
- Houston, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The University of Houston offers an RN-to-BSN program through both face-to-face/web-enhanced classes and hybrid/online classes. In addition to 30 credits in nursing courses, students complete three practicums. The school assigns practicum locations.
Courses include community health management and concept integration in patient care management. This program maintains an 83.9% graduation rate.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Houston, TX
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Admission Requirements: ADN or diploma in nursing, minimum 2.5 GPA, RN license
- Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 98.7%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $68,860 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
68%
$10,856
87%
$26,894
- Acceptance Rate
- 74%
- Students Enrolled
- 47,980
- Institution Type
- Public
University of New England
- Biddeford, ME
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The University of New England (UNE), Maine's largest private university, offers several nursing degrees, including an RN-to-BSN. Current nurses can expand their roles through UNE's classroom-based instruction and hands-on clinical hours.
Courses include families in crisis, managing the challenge of disability, and health education in the community. To graduate, students must complete 123 credits.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Biddeford, ME
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Admission Requirements: RN license, ADN or diploma with a GPA of 2.5 or better
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 91.8%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $63,810 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
45%
$41,050
79%
$41,050
- Acceptance Rate
- 92%
- Students Enrolled
- 6,573
- Institution Type
- Private
University of Nevada-Reno
- Reno, NV
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The University of Nevada-Reno (UNR) offers a bachelor's program for current registered nurses or enrollees in associate in nursing programs. UNR's degree requires 120 credits.
Courses may include gerontology, dimensions of health and wellness, and legal and ethical issues in nursing. New students may enroll in the spring, summer, or fall semester.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Reno, NV
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $256 per credit (resident); $16,542 per year (non-resident)
- Admission Requirements: Current RNs need 24 transferable credits with a 2.0 GPA or better and must complete all prerequisites; current ADN/AAS students must meet additional requirements
- Minimum Time Commitment: 18 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 92.5%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $69,160 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
31%
$ 8,655
80%
$22,959
- Acceptance Rate
- 74%
- Students Enrolled
- 22,802
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Wyoming
- Laramie, WY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The University of Wyoming offers an RN-to-BSN program for registered nurses across the United States. Participants take courses, such as health equity, community as client, innovation in nursing practice, and application of evidence in nursing practice.
Students must maintain a 75% in all courses to graduate. They also complete professional practice hours in three courses.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Laramie, WY
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Admission Requirements: RN license, ADN or diploma in nursing
- Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96.1%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $66,370 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
64%
$ 5,400
79%
$22,020
- Acceptance Rate
- 97%
- Students Enrolled
- 10,813
- Institution Type
- Public
Claflin University
- Orangeburg, SC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The only historically Black college in South Carolina to offer a nursing degree, Claflin University provides an RN-to-BSN online degree. The school also maintains a master's in nursing online.
BSN courses include community health nursing and nursing practice in a multicultural society. Students need to perform clinical rotations in two courses.
- Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
- Campus: Orangeburg, SC
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Admission Requirements: ADN, Grade of "C" or better in all transfer courses, RN license
- Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
12%
$16,476
79%
$16,476
- Acceptance Rate
- 73%
- Students Enrolled
- 1,835
- Institution Type
- Private
How We Rank Schools
We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best nursing programs, making it easy to find a program that meets your needs. Informed by data from the most reputable sources, including the U.S. Department of Education, our methodology is based on metrics that matter most to nursing students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.
How Do Registered Nursing Programs Work?
Bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) programs prepare students to become successful RNs. The four-year program comprises general education coursework, nursing classes, and clinical experiences. Most general education requirements are completed in the first year, with years 2-4 focusing primarily on nursing.
On average, BSN programs require students to complete 120-130 credits and 700-800 clinical hours. During clinical experiences, students take the information they learn in their nursing courses and apply it through hands-on experiences in patient-care settings and labs alongside licensed nurses.
After finishing their coursework and clinical requirements, learners can sit for the NCLEX-RN. Students must pass this exam to apply for their RN license and officially start working in the nursing field.
Applying to a Registered Nursing Program
Before applying to a BSN program, review the admission criteria to ensure you meet the conditions for acceptance.
While specific requirements may vary by school, most programs look for applicants to provide certain materials and satisfy similar academic prerequisites.
- Admission Materials: High school courses in biology, chemistry, anatomy, and physiology (preferred); SAT and/or ACT scores; resume; personal essay; letters of recommendation; volunteer experience
- GPA Requirement: Minimum 2.75 GPA
Why Is Registered Nursing Program Accreditation Important?
Attending an accredited RN program provides benefits not only to you as a nurse but also to your future patients and employer. Graduates of accredited programs are more attractive to employers because of the program’s quality and the assurance that graduates can provide the best care to their patients.
Provided only by nationally recognized organizations, such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, accreditation demonstrates that the school successfully prepares nurses for safe practice.
Attending a non-accredited program may cause students to be ineligible for federal financial aid, unable to transfer their credits to an accredited school, or incapable of pursuing graduate education.
Frequently Asked Questions About RN Programs
Associate degrees in nursing (ADN) and BSNs both prepare nurses to become licensed RNs. However, because they receive two additional years of education, RNs with a bachelor’s degree can access more job opportunities and a higher earning potential.
According to Payscale data from 2023, RNs with an ADN earn an average salary of $74,000, while those with a BSN earn $91,000 annually.
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