Best Nursing Schools in Connecticut
While Connecticut’s nursing job market is projected to grow a little slower than the rest of the country, it still is expected to grow steadily (by about 4%) throughout the decade. Connecticut, like many other New England states, is also home to a large majority of the country’s nursing programs. Regardless of the level of nursing degree you desire, or your experience as a nurse, you are sure to find options that work perfectly with your specific circumstance.
2027 Best Nursing Schools in Connecticut
Rankings help prospective nursing students compare programs and choose the right fit. Our ranking of the Best Nursing Schools in Connecticut is based solely on NCLEX pass rates, reflecting program quality. Registerednursing.org created these rankings to guide your decision. See our methodology: https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/
Yearly Pass Rate Trends
Statewide average pass rates varied significantly across recent years, with a peak in 2024.
- 2023: 84.82%
- 2024: 94.67%
- 2025: 89.97%
BSN vs ADN Pass Rate Comparison
ADN and MSN programs slightly outperformed traditional BSN programs, while Accelerated BSN programs lagged.
- MSN: 93.00%
- BSN: 91.70%
- Accelerated BSN: 86.00%
- ADN: 92.17%
Biggest Improvements
Several Connecticut nursing schools demonstrated substantial pass rate gains, indicating strong programmatic enhancements.
- Naugatuck Valley Community College: +21% (from 76% to 97%)
- Connecticut State Community College Norwalk: +13% (from 80% to 93%)
- Connecticut State Community College: +12.5% (from 83.5% to 96%)
Consistently High Performing Schools
These five schools maintained average pass rates above 94% across multiple years, showcasing sustained excellence.
- Sacred Heart University: 97.50%
- University of Connecticut-Avery Point: 96.67%
- Three Rivers Community College: 96.33%
- Western Connecticut State University: 96.00%
- Yale University: 94.33%
Western Connecticut State University
Danbury, CT - Public 4-Year - wcsu.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at Western Connecticut State University is a campus-based program that starts in the sophomore year, offering three focused years of nursing coursework. The curriculum builds skills in critical thinking, the nursing process, communication, and leadership through theory and clinical experiences. Clinical partnerships with healthcare agencies in Danbury, Waterbury, and New Haven provide diverse hands-on learning. Graduates are prepared for NCLEX licensure and are highly sought after by employers, with one of the highest NCLEX pass rates in Connecticut. Small class sizes and accessible faculty ensure personalized attention. The program requires 120 credits and a 3.0 GPA for admission, along with prerequisite courses in sciences. Graduates pursue careers in hospitals, community health, and leadership roles.
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 120 total credit hours
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Highest NCLEX pass rates in Connecticut
- Smaller class sizes
- Faculty readily accessible
- Clinical partnerships with healthcare agencies
- Three years of nursing courses
University of Connecticut-Avery Point
Groton, CT - Public 4-Year - averypoint.uconn.edu
Bachelor's - CEIN/BS Accelerated Second Degree Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
UConn's Accelerated Second Degree CEIN/BS is a dynamic 12-month nursing program designed for bachelor's degree holders seeking a career transition. This full-time, affordable program at Connecticut's flagship university provides comprehensive nursing education, preparing students for the NCLEX exam and professional nursing practice through intensive, hands-on learning experiences.
- 12-month accelerated nursing program
- Designed for non-nursing bachelor's degree holders
- Available at 4 UConn campuses
- Prepares for NCLEX licensure exam
- Professional nursing skill development
University of Saint Joseph
West Hartford, CT - Private 4-year - usj.edu
Bachelor's - Nursing, B.S.
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) at the University of Saint Joseph prepares students for a rewarding career in nursing with a strong foundation in both the art and science of nursing. This program emphasizes holistic care, ethical practice, and professional leadership, ensuring graduates are ready to meet the healthcare needs of diverse populations. With a curriculum that integrates empirical and theoretical knowledge, students gain hands-on experience through clinical placements. Admission requires a GPA of 2.8 or higher and a grade of C or above in all science courses. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, offering a pathway to licensure as a Registered Nurse.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Prepares for RN licensure.
- Holistic care focus.
- Clinical hands-on experience.
- 2.8 GPA requirement.
- C in science courses.
- Ethical practice emphasis.
- Professional leadership training.
- Diverse population care.
- Integrates theory and practice.
Bachelor's - Accelerated Second Degree (ASD), Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Saint Joseph’s Accelerated Second Degree (ASD) in Nursing is a 15-month, 53-credit BSN program designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field. The curriculum blends foundational nursing courses with intensive clinical experiences, covering health assessment, pathophysiology, pharmacology, nursing research, community health, and public health nursing. Students progress through a continuous cycle of summer, fall, spring, and summer terms, building skills in acute care, long-term care, and community settings. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam and pursue careers as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, and community health agencies. The program is accredited by CCNE and approved by the Connecticut Board of Examiners for Nursing. Admission is competitive and requires a minimum 3.0 GPA, prerequisite science courses completed within eight years, and a letter of recommendation. Students must also meet health requirements, undergo a criminal background check, and provide CPR certification. The ASD program offers a fast-track pathway for motivated second-degree students seeking a career in nursing.
- CCNE accredited
- 15-Month program
- 53 total credit hours
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- 1 letters of recommendation (minimum)
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Designed for second-degree students
- Eligible for NCLEX-RN licensure
- Clinical experiences required
Connecticut State Community College
New Britain, CT - Public 2-Year - ctstate.edu
Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Associate Degree in Nursing at Connecticut State Community College prepares students for a rewarding career as a registered nurse. Offered at six campuses across the state, the program blends on-ground and hybrid learning with hands-on experience in state-of-the-art simulation labs and clinical settings. The curriculum covers 35 nursing credits alongside general education courses, and can be completed in four semesters of full-time study. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN and often secure employment in Connecticut within a year, earning competitive starting salaries. The program is ACEN accredited and offers opportunities for current LPNs to advance. With strong partnerships with healthcare systems like Hartford HealthCare and Yale New Haven Health, students gain real-world exposure. Transfer options to bachelor's programs are also available.
- ACEN accredited
- 4-Semester program
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Clinical partnerships with major healthcare systems
- Average starting salary of $73,352
- Advancement opportunities for LPNs
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- Six campuses across Connecticut
- More than 90% job placement in CT within a year
Fairfield University
Fairfield, CT - Private 4-year - fairfield.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Fairfield University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the Marion Peckham Egan School blends liberal arts with hands-on clinical training. Students complete 504 clinical hours and 112 lab hours through guaranteed placements at top hospitals like Yale New Haven and Bridgeport Hospital. The curriculum balances theory and practice, preparing graduates for the NCLEX-RN and registered nurse licensure. Small classes, faculty advisors, and state-of-the-art simulation facilities provide personalized support. Study abroad options in Australia and Italy offer a global perspective. Graduates achieve a 100% employment rate within six months, working in hospitals, community health centers, and more. The program is CCNE-accredited and ranked among the nation's best by Niche, U.S. News, and College Factual.
- CCNE accredited
- 85 total credit hours
- 100% job placement rate
- 504 clinical hours
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Best College for Nursing in the Nation
- Top 15% Best Undergraduate Nursing Programs
- Top 5% Nursing Program in the Nation
- 100% clinical placement guaranteed
- Study abroad in Australia and Italy
Connecticut Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
At the entry-level, Connecticut offers a variety of exceptional nursing programs such as an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. Take a look at the sections below to find out which one makes the most sense for you.
Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs
An ADN is the quickest degree pathway for nurses who want to practice at the entry level. These degree options take just 2 years to complete. Students may also try the RN diploma option, typically offered through specialty nursing schools and hospitals. If going with a nurse diploma, it takes around 1-2 years to complete. The difference between an ADN and an RN diploma is that the ADN includes other core college courses, while the diploma is focused strictly on basic nursing education. A good option for current Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) is the LPN to RN bridge program, which can result in either an ADN or a BSN.
Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Connecticut include:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA, typically 2.5 or higher
- Some programs require scores from the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI Admission Assessment
For further admissions requirements and more information, check out our page on ADN degree programs.
More information on RN diplomas, LPN to RN, and ADN programs:
| Program | Estimated Tuition | Estimated Credits | Online Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADN | $6,000 – $15,000 | 60-72 credits | Limited online courses, primarily on-campus |
| LPN to RN | $4,000 – $10,000 | 30-45 credits | Often hybrid; some online courses |
| RN Diploma | $5,000 – $12,000 | 40-60 credits | Rarely online; primarily on-campus |
ADN, LPN to RN, and nursing diploma programs require hands-on clinical training hours under supervision in order to be eligible for RN licensure. These will need to be completed in person, even if you opt for an online or hybrid program. Not sure if you’re ready for an RN career? Consider an LPN or CNA program in Connecticut.
Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN to BSN vs. Accelerated BSN Programs
For some nurses, a traditional 4-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is the perfect choice. Typically, students who go with this option have little to no nursing experience and no previous nursing education. However, if you do have nursing experience, a nursing license, and an ADN, you can enroll in an RN to BSN which get you to graduation in a much shorter amount of time. The same goes for an Accelerated BSN program — if you have a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing, your timeline to graduation will be much shorter.
Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Connecticut typically include:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0
- Completion of prerequisite courses
For more information on BSN admissions requirements and more, see our BSN degrees page.
Several alternative pathways are also available to qualified students who want to pursue a BSN. Compare your options below:
| Program Type | Length/Credits | Estimated Cost (In-State) | Who It’s For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional BSN | 4 years (120-126 credits) | $20,000 – $50,000 | First-time college students/career starters |
| RN to BSN | 1-2 years (30-35 credits) | $10,000 – $20,000 | Licensed RNs with an ADN |
| ABSN | 12-18 months (50-60 credits) | $25,000 – $40,000 | Bachelor's degree holders in another field |
RN to BSN
For RN bridge programs visit:
If you already have an ADN or nursing diploma and want to advance to a bachelor's degree you may be interested in a Connecticut RN to BSN bridge pathway. These programs can be taken full-time or part-time, allowing nurses to continue working if they wish, and are available both on-campus and online. Clinical hours, however, must be completed in person.
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
Connecticut ABSN programs may be able to be completed in an even faster timeline than RN to BSN programs. These programs are more geared toward students who have a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing. For the right candidate, this can spell out a graduation timeline in as little as a year!
Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
Students in Connecticut who want to pursue more advanced nursing opportunities will need to go with a nursing graduate degree — either a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program, a bridge program to enter advanced practice, or a doctorate degree such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Typically speaking, you’ll need at least a BSN to pursue these options, but once enrolled, you’ll find that they are well worth the wait.
Earning a graduate-level degree in nursing opens the door to numerous Advanced Practice Registered Nursing (APRN) roles, leadership roles, and even careers in academia or research. Read more about APRN pathways in Connecticut:
Read more about advanced practice nursing programs in Connecticut here:
See Related Articles
Getting an RN License in Connecticut
Upon graduation, nurses who intend to practice in the state will need to get licensed. The process for RN licensure in Connecticut requires a formal application to the Connecticut State Department of Health following the passing of the NCLEX-RN.
Requirements for RN Licensure in Connecticut
- Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
- Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
- Application to the Connecticut Board of Nursing
- Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance
Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?
RN program accreditation is also an important consideration. If an RN program is not accredited, it means that the state board has not approved the school’s curriculum, and thus, graduates from the program will not be allowed to get licensed. Accreditation in the US is conducted by both the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Cities With Nursing Programs in Connecticut
List of Nursing Schools in Connecticut
Bridgeport, CT
University of Bridgeport
- Bachelor's - Accelerated BSN
Campus Based - Website
- State-of-the-art simulation center
- Clinical partnerships throughout Connecticut
- Prepares for entry-level nursing practice
- Foundation for graduate education
- Bachelor's - BSN Nursing Program
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- Rolling admissions
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
- 10 patient beds in simulation center
- Pyxis machine in simulation lab
- Theater-style lecture hall
- Community health simulation room
Danbury, CT
Western Connecticut State University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 120 total credit hours
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Highest NCLEX pass rates in Connecticut
- Smaller class sizes
- Faculty readily accessible
East Hartford, CT
Goodwin University
- Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
- 20-Month program
- Part-time available
- 89% licensure pass rate
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
- Selective admission program
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN)
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- 16-Month program
- Locked tuition rate
- 60 total credit hours
- Apply by 2026-05-31
- Starts fall
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
Fairfield, CT
Fairfield University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- 85 total credit hours
- 100% job placement rate
- 504 clinical hours
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Best College for Nursing in the Nation
- Top 15% Best Undergraduate Nursing Programs
- Top 5% Nursing Program in the Nation
Groton, CT
University of Connecticut-Avery Point
- Bachelor's - CEIN/BS Accelerated Second Degree Program
Campus Based - Website
- 12-month accelerated nursing program
- Designed for non-nursing bachelor's degree holders
- Available at 4 UConn campuses
- Prepares for NCLEX licensure exam
- Professional nursing skill development
New Britain, CT
Central Connecticut State University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Multiple pathways to admission
- ATI TEAS exam required
- Highly competitive admission
- Pre-nursing prerequisites
Charter Oak State College
- Bachelor's - Nursing: RN/ADN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 120 total credit hours
- Capstone required
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Two practicum courses required
- Background check and drug screening
- Transfer up to 2 nursing courses
Connecticut State Community College
- Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- 4-Semester program
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Clinical partnerships with major healthcare systems
- Average starting salary of $73,352
- Advancement opportunities for LPNs
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
New Haven, CT
Albertus Magnus College
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredited
- Starts spring
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Hands-on simulation labs
- Clinical partnerships with major hospitals
Southern Connecticut State University
- Bachelor's - BS in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- Test optional
- Full-time and part-time options
- Starts fall
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Early College for Nursing initiative
New London, CT
Mitchell College
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredited
- No entrance exam required
- Test optional
- 120 total credit hours
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Capstone required
- $0 application fee
Stamford, CT
University of Connecticut-Stamford
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Second-Degree CEIN/BS Program
Campus Based - Website
- 12-month accelerated program
- Designed for non-nursing bachelor's
- Four campus location options
- NCLEX-RN exam eligibility
- Research-intensive university
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Traditional Track
Campus Based - Website
- Four-year full-time program
- NCLEX exam preparation
- 70+ healthcare agency affiliations
- Clinical Simulation Learning Center
- Competitive admission process
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- Fall semester entry only
- Prerequisites include biology, chemistry
Storrs, CT
University of Connecticut
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science
Campus Based - Website
- 4-Year program
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- 0 letters of recommendation (minimum)
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Ranked #40 nationally by U.S. News
Waterbury, CT
University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Traditional Track)
Campus Based - Website
- Four-year comprehensive nursing program
- 70+ healthcare agency partnerships
- NCLEX exam preparation
- 3.0 GPA transfer requirement
- Clinical simulation learning center
- First nursing courses first year
- Person-centered care focus
- Interprofessional leadership training
West Hartford, CT
University of Hartford
- Bachelor's - Nursing, B.S.N.
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- No entrance exam required
- Test optional
- 4-Year program
- 121 total credit hours
- 100% job placement rate
- 2.7 GPA minimum
- $93,600 median earnings
University of Saint Joseph
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Second Degree (ASD), Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- 15-Month program
- 53 total credit hours
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- 1 letters of recommendation (minimum)
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Designed for second-degree students
- Bachelor's - Nursing, B.S.
Campus Based - Website
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Prepares for RN licensure.
- Holistic care focus.
- Clinical hands-on experience.
- 2.8 GPA requirement.
- C in science courses.
- Ethical practice emphasis.
- Professional leadership training.
Willimantic, CT
Eastern Connecticut State University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 4-Year program
- 120 total credit hours
- Cohort-based structure
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- 1 letters of recommendation (minimum)
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Partnership with Hartford Healthcare
- Clinical simulation lab at Windham Hospital
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