Best Nursing Schools in Virginia

Galen College's LPN/LVN to ADN Bridge Program provides licensed practical/vocational nurses a streamlined pathway to becoming registered nurses in just 18 months. This comprehensive program equips experienced nurses with advanced clinical knowledge, leadership skills, and eligibility to take the NCLEX-RN exam. Designed for working professionals, the on-campus curriculum builds on existing nursing experience through targeted coursework in pharmacology, pathophysiology, and complex care strategies.

• 18-month full-time program
• On-campus learning format
• Four start dates yearly
• Advanced nursing knowledge
• NCLEX-RN exam preparation
• Career advancement opportunity
• Builds on LPN/LVN experience

Galen College of Nursing's 3-Year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program offers an accelerated pathway for aspiring nurses to launch their healthcare careers. Designed for individuals new to nursing, this comprehensive program prepares students to become registered nurses through an intensive, full-time curriculum. Students gain comprehensive clinical knowledge and hands-on experience, positioning themselves to confidently take the NCLEX-RN® exam. The program provides flexibility with four start times annually and offers on-campus learning across multiple locations. Tuition and financial aid options are available, making this an accessible route for those committed to nursing as a profession.

• 3-Year Full-Time Program
• On-Campus Learning
• 4 Annual Start Times
• NCLEX-RN® Preparation
• Multiple Campus Locations
• No Transfer Credits for Nursing
• Personalized Academic Support
• Clinical Learning Labs
• Modern Nursing Curriculum

Longwood University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is a four-year, direct-admission program that prepares students to become citizen leaders in healthcare. The curriculum blends classroom theory with hands-on simulated and clinical experiences, emphasizing service-learning and community engagement. Students develop skills in patient advocacy, care coordination, and navigating complex health systems. Graduates are equipped for diverse nursing roles in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the Virginia Board of Nursing. Unique features include direct entry for freshmen and a focus on developing compassionate, skilled nurses ready to transform healthcare.

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
• 4-Year program
• Scholarships available
• Citizen leadership focus
• Direct admission for freshmen
• Service-learning in curriculum
• Theory and clinical experiences
• Approved by Virginia Board of Nursing
• Patient advocacy experiences

Wytheville Community College offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) with a forward-thinking Concept Based Curriculum. This innovative approach moves beyond traditional content-heavy coursework, emphasizing deep learning of core nursing concepts through active learning strategies. Over five semesters, students build a solid foundation in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and nursing theory before advancing to health care concepts, complex care, and a capstone experience. The curriculum integrates prerequisite courses in English, math, psychology, and ethics, ensuring a well-rounded education. Graduates are prepared to sit for the NCLEX-RN and pursue careers as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings. With small class sizes and a focus on knowledge transfer, this program equips students with critical thinking skills essential for modern nursing practice. Selective admission requires a 2.5 GPA and TEAS exam scores, with an annual deadline of February 15.

• Entrance exam required
• Exams: TEAS
• 5-Semester program
• 67 total credit hours
• 2.5 GPA minimum
• Prerequisite courses required
• Concept Based Curriculum
• Selective admission process
• Admission deadline February 15
• NSG courses must be taken in sequence

Tidewater Community College's Beazley School of Nursing offers an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing degree that prepares students for a rewarding career as a registered nurse (RN). The program combines rigorous coursework in science and math with hands-on training in state-of-the-art simulation labs and clinical settings. Students learn patient care, health assessment, and professional nursing concepts while benefiting from small class sizes and dedicated faculty. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and pursue diverse opportunities in hospitals, clinics, and community health. The curriculum includes LPN to RN transition options and emphasizes critical thinking, communication, and patient advocacy. With ACEN accreditation and multiple start dates, this campus-based program provides a solid foundation for further advancement in nursing. Admission is competitive and requires a separate application, so prospective students should plan accordingly.

• Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredited
• 4-Semester program
• 64 total credit hours
• 2 start dates per year
• Starts spring/fall
• State-of-the-art simulation labs
• Small class sizes
• Dedicated faculty
• LPN to RN placement available
• Mandatory information session required

This Associate of Applied Science in Nursing program at Southside Virginia Community College prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam and entry-level practice as a Registered Nurse. The curriculum covers care, counseling, and education of healthcare consumers across diverse clinical settings. Students can choose from four campus locations in Southside Virginia, and a weekend option offers flexibility. The program emphasizes competence in patient care and is designed to meet regional workforce needs. With 67 credit hours, it includes clinical experiences and strong tracking of program outcomes like NCLEX pass rates and graduate employment. A mandatory virtual information session helps applicants prepare. Graduates are equipped to work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities, contributing to the health of the community.

• 67 total credit hours
• Starts fall/spring
• 80% job placement rate
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN
• Financial aid available
• Multiple campus locations in Southside VA
• Weekend option available
• Mandatory virtual nursing information session
• Prepares for entry-level RN practice

Rappahannock Community College offers a part-time Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (ADN) program designed to prepare students as beginning practitioners in the art and science of nursing. The curriculum covers nursing concepts, health promotion, complex care, and professional nursing skills through a sequence of 67 credits over 13 semesters. Students gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and other healthcare settings. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses. The program is ACEN accredited and approved by the Virginia Board of Nursing. Admission requires completion of prerequisite courses, a minimum GPA, and the Kaplan Nursing Entrance Test. Financial aid options include G3 Tuition Assistance. An LPN to ADN transition path is also available, offering advanced placement for licensed practical nurses.

• Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), Virginia Board of Nursing accredited
• Entrance exam required
• $11,722 total program tuition
• $170 per credit
• 13-Semester program
• 67 total credit hours
• Part-time available
• 2.0 GPA minimum
• Prerequisite courses required
• Capstone required

The University of Virginia's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a four-year, full-time program that prepares students for a rewarding career as a registered nurse. The curriculum blends rigorous coursework in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and leadership with hands-on clinical experience. Starting in the second year, students rotate through five specialty areas—medical-surgical, community health, pediatrics, labor and delivery, and psychiatric-mental health nursing—guided by experienced preceptors. In the final year, a semester-long practicum intensive solidifies clinical skills. The program also offers unique study abroad opportunities, including exchanges in Australia and clinical experiences in Honduras. With a 120-credit curriculum and access to UVA's state-of-the-art Clinical Simulation Learning Center, graduates are well-prepared to sit for the NCLEX exam and pursue diverse nursing careers in hospitals, community health, or leadership roles. UVA's BSN program is known for its academic rigor and commitment to producing compassionate, skilled nurses.

• 4-Year program
• 120 total credit hours
• Prepares for NCLEX
• Financial aid available
• Clinical rotations in five specialties
• Study abroad opportunities
• Clinical Simulation Learning Center
• 100% demonstrated need met
• Apply by November 1 (Early Action)
• Apply by January 1 (Regular Decision)

The University of Virginia's 3-Year BSN Transfer Program offers a streamlined path to a nursing career. Over six semesters of full-time study, you'll complete a 120-credit curriculum blending theory with hands-on clinical practice from your second year. Interprofessional learning with medical students and a study abroad option in Australia or New Zealand set this program apart. The Compassionate Care Initiative supports your well-being with retreats. Graduates are prepared for the NCLEX exam and careers as registered nurses. With clinical placements at UVA Medical Center and numerous sites, you'll gain diverse experience under expert preceptors. This program provides a strong foundation for a rewarding nursing career.

• 3-Year program
• Complete in in three years
• 120 total credit hours
• Starts fall
• Prerequisite courses required
• Prepares for NCLEX
• Financial aid available
• Clinical experience from second year
• Study abroad in Australia or New Zealand
• International exchange component

The Accelerated BSN (ABSN) at UVA is a fast-paced, two-year program designed for transfer students who have completed two years of college coursework. Over 120 credits and two summer sessions, you'll gain extensive clinical experience and rigorous preparation for the NCLEX. The curriculum emphasizes patient management across diverse health systems, with a focus on agency, advocacy, and self-care. You'll learn in a close-knit cohort with access to world-class faculty mentors and UVA's unique interprofessional approach. Clinical rotations at UVA Medical Center and over 50 other sites across central Virginia provide real-world practice. Graduates are prepared for meaningful nursing careers in hospitals, community health, and specialty care. This program is ideal for motivated students seeking an efficient path to a BSN and a strong foundation for lifelong nursing practice.

• 2-Year program
• 120 total credit hours
• 1 start dates per year
• Starts summer
• Cohort-based structure
• Prerequisite courses required
• Prepares for NCLEX
• Financial aid available
• Focus on agency, advocacy, and self-care
• Interprofessional learning approach

The Accelerated BSN (ABSN) at UVA is a two-year, full-time program designed for students who have completed two years of college coursework. The curriculum emphasizes patient-centered care across diverse populations and healthcare settings, with a strong focus on advocacy, agency, and self-care. Students gain extensive clinical experience at top facilities like UVA Medical Center, earn 120 credits including two summer sessions, and prepare for the NCLEX exam. The program features a close-knit cohort model, world-class faculty mentors, and an interprofessional learning environment, preparing graduates for meaningful nursing careers in hospitals, community clinics, and beyond.

• 2-Year program
• 120 total credit hours
• 1 start dates per year
• Starts summer
• Cohort-based structure
• Prerequisite courses required
• Prepares for NCLEX
• Financial aid available
• Intimate cohort experience
• World-class faculty mentors

Old Dominion University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Pre-licensure) is a five-semester campus-based program designed to launch your nursing career quickly. The curriculum blends classroom theory with hands-on clinical experiences, including courses in pharmacology, health continuum recovery, and community interactions. You'll train in a state-of-the-art simulation center and Telehealth Center, learning to deliver care using the latest technology. Unique community health partnerships with organizations like the Food Bank of Southeastern Virginia and Operation Smile provide real-world experience. Graduates are prepared for roles as registered nurses in acute care, critical care, and community health settings, with a 100% employment rate for those seeking jobs. Small clinical sections and supportive faculty ensure personalized attention, while study abroad opportunities and an active Student Nurses' Association enrich the learning experience.

• $281 per credit
• 5-Semester program
• Starts fall/spring/summer
• 100% job placement rate
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• Prerequisite courses required
• Military benefits accepted
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Small clinical sections

Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing offers a traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree designed to prepare students for careers as registered nurses. This pre-licensure program combines online coursework with on-site classes, offering flexibility for diverse learners. The curriculum emphasizes foundational nursing knowledge through core nursing courses and hands-on clinical experiences, with the college securing all practicum placements at affiliated healthcare facilities. Students gain skills in patient care, critical thinking, and evidence-based practice. Graduates are prepared to sit for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam and pursue careers in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings. Unique features include guaranteed admission for graduates of select Virginia universities with a 3.0 GPA, and 100% tuition coverage for Bon Secours employees who commit to working as RNs after graduation. With two start dates per year and a supportive learning environment, this program provides a clear path to a rewarding nursing career.

• 5-Semester program
• 2 start dates per year
• Starts spring/fall
• 2.5 GPA minimum
• Prerequisite courses required
• $75 application fee
• Employer reimbursement supported
• Financial aid available
• Hybrid online and on-site classes
• 46 prerequisite general education credits

The Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) at Bryant & Stratton College-Virginia Beach is an on-campus program designed to launch your nursing career. In just 20 months and 72 credits, you'll gain essential skills through a blend of classroom theory, lab practice, and clinical experiences. The curriculum covers nursing fundamentals, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, and more, preparing you to think critically and deliver safe patient care. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam to become a registered nurse. The program features a small classroom environment for personalized attention and offers clinical internship opportunities with healthcare partners. With ACEN accreditation and a focus on career readiness, this ADN degree provides a solid foundation for entry-level nursing roles in hospitals, clinics, and other settings. Plus, credits transfer smoothly into an RN-to-BSN program for further advancement.

• ACEN accredited
• Entrance exam required
• Exams: TEAS
• 20-Month program
• 72 total credit hours
• $0 application fee
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN
• Small classroom environment
• Clinical internship opportunities
• Hands-on clinical experience