Best Nursing Schools in Vermont
Vermont may be one of the nation’s smallest and least populated states, but for what it lacks in size, it makes up for it in natural beauty and tight-knit communities. It’s also well-known for having a large number of nursing programs and a positive outlook for future nurses. Within the next ten years, Vermonters are expecting an increase of 10% in nursing jobs due to the ongoing nursing shortage and an aging population in the state. If you’re hoping to become a nurse in Vermont, below are a few degree programs that you can find in the state and the differences between them.
2027 Best Nursing Schools in Vermont
Vermont State University
Randolph, VT - Public 4-Year - vermontstate.edu
Associate - Nursing, A.S.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Vermont State University's Associate of Science in Nursing is a one-year, hybrid program designed for current LPNs seeking RN licensure. The curriculum blends theory with hands-on clinical practice, covering advanced nursing concepts, microbiology, and psychology. You'll train in state-of-the-art simulation labs and complete clinical hours at partner healthcare facilities across Vermont. Graduates are prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam and careers as registered nurses, with a median salary of $86,070. The program's flexible format lets you work while learning, and you can seamlessly transition into Vermont State's online BSN completion program. With a high NCLEX pass rate and multiple scholarship options including a Free Tuition Guarantee for Vermonters, this program offers an affordable, accelerated path to nursing advancement.
- NLN CNEA accredited
- 1-Year program
- Complete in in just one year
- 70 total credit hours
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 92% licensure pass rate
- $86,070 median earnings
- 315 clinical hours
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
Bachelor's - Nursing, B.S.N.
Campus Based - Visit Website
Vermont State University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a four-year, in-person plus program that prepares you for a rewarding career as a registered nurse. The curriculum covers anatomy, physiology, microbiology, nutrition, health assessment, pathophysiology, pharmacology, and nursing care across the lifespan. You'll gain hands-on experience through simulation centers and over 600 clinical hours at top regional medical centers like Dartmouth Hitchcock and UVM Medical Center. With small class sizes and experienced faculty, you'll build strong clinical judgment and leadership skills. The program also offers a 1+1+2 pathway for working students. Graduates are prepared for roles in acute care, community health, and leadership, and can pursue advanced degrees. Plus, over 80% of students receive financial aid, with scholarships like the Trailblazer Scholarship available.
- National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation accredited
- 4-Year program
- Locked tuition rate
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 100% licensure pass rate
- 600 clinical hours
- Capstone required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
University of Vermont
Burlington, VT - Public 4-Year - uvm.edu
Bachelor's - Nursing B.S.
Campus Based - Visit Website
UVM's BSN in Professional Nursing blends science and art for a rewarding career. The curriculum covers chemistry, psychology, anatomy, microbiology, and nursing theory. Clinicals start in sophomore year with 594 faculty-supervised hours, including acute care and a 126-hour senior practicum. Travel study options let you explore public health nursing globally. Simulation labs and partnerships with UVM Health Network provide hands-on experience. NCLEX pass rates exceed 96%, and the program is CCNE accredited. A wellness course builds mental resilience. Research, Sigma Theta Tau honor society, and small classes prepare you for hospital, community, and leadership roles. Develop skills in patient care, evidence-based practice, and leadership. Graduates work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, and public health.
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 123 total credit hours
- 594 clinical hours
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- 98.7% NCLEX pass rate
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- Clinical partnerships with UVM Health Network
- 126-hour senior practicum
Norwich University
Northfield, VT - Private 4-year - norwich.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Norwich University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing is a four-year, campus-based program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN and a career in nursing. The curriculum combines rigorous academics with hands-on learning in simulation labs and clinical rotations at renowned partners like Dartmouth-Hitchcock and UVM Medical Center. Students gain proficiency in electronic health records and other technologies, ensuring they are ready for modern healthcare environments. With a focus on leadership and global perspectives, the program cultivates compassionate, competent nurses. Graduates emerge ready to meet the critical demand for nurses in hospitals, community settings, and beyond. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, this program offers a supportive learning community with expert faculty.
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 4-Year program
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Clinical affiliations with Dartmouth-Hitchcock
- Clinical affiliations with UVM Medical Center
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- Electronic health records training
- Experiential learning environments
- Globally minded nurse leaders
Vermont Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
If you’re beginning your journey in nursing, you’ll need to choose an entry-level degree. In Vermont, there are three common paths for aspiring nurses: an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Here’s a breakdown of what each option offers:
Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs
If you’re looking to quickly enter the nursing field, nursing diploma or ADN programs are excellent options. These programs typically take one to two years to complete and provide the essential training needed to begin your nursing career. For those already working as an LPN, an LPN to RN bridge program might be a great fit. These programs leverage your existing experience, allowing you to earn either an ADN or BSN in a shorter timeframe than traditional routes while preparing you to become a licensed RN.
Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Vermont 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 Vermont.
Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs
If you’re seeking more comprehensive training than an ADN or nursing diploma can provide, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is an excellent option. A BSN can be pursued through several pathways. For those with no prior education or nursing experience, the traditional four-year BSN route is the way to go. However, if you already have an ADN and nursing experience, an RN to BSN program can allow you to complete your degree in less than three years. Additionally, if you hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field, an Accelerated BSN (ABSN) program offers a fast-track option to earn your BSN in a shorter time.
Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Vermont 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 | Length | Estimated Tuition | Entrance Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional BSN | 4 years (120-126 credits) | $20,000 – $50,000 | First-time college students |
| 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 | Non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders |
RN to BSN
For RN bridge programs visit:
A Vermont RN to BSN is a great option for nurses who are already licensed and have some experience in the field. This bridge program allows you to earn your BSN in a shorter time compared to a traditional BSN program. To qualify, you’ll need an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) and an active RN license.
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
Even if you have no prior nursing experience, you can still take a faster route to earning your BSN. If you already hold a bachelor's degree in a field other than nursing, you can complete a Vermont ABSN programs in as little as one year!
Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
Whether you’re an experienced nurse looking to advance your career or a student aiming for a higher level of nursing, Vermont offers several graduate-level nursing programs, including the Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program, a bridge program to enter advanced practice, or even a doctorate degree such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), for those aiming for the highest level of education in nursing. To get started, you’ll need a BSN or MSN, along with an active, unencumbered RN license.
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 Vermont:
- Vermont Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Vermont MSN Program
- Vermont Accelerated MSN Program
- Vermont RN to MSN Programs
- Vermont Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
- Vermont DNP Programs
See Related Articles
Getting an RN License in Vermont
After graduating, the next step to becoming a licensed nurse in Vermont is to pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Once you've passed, you'll need to submit an application to the Vermont Board of Nursing, along with the required fee. To maintain your license, you will also need to complete any continuing education requirements set by the state.
Requirements for RN Licensure in Vermont
- Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
- Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
- Application to the Vermont Board of Nursing
- Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance
Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?
The answer is straightforward: without attending an accredited nursing program, you won't be eligible for licensure. RN program accreditation ensures that the program meets the standards set by the state board, which is responsible for licensure. As you research nursing schools, make sure that the programs you're considering are accredited by recognized organizations, such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)). This is a crucial step in your path to becoming a licensed nurse.
Cities With Nursing Programs in Vermont
List of Nursing Schools in Vermont
Burlington, VT
University of Vermont
- Bachelor's - Nursing B.S.
Campus Based - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 123 total credit hours
- 594 clinical hours
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- 98.7% NCLEX pass rate
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
Northfield, VT
Norwich University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 4-Year program
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Clinical affiliations with Dartmouth-Hitchcock
- Clinical affiliations with UVM Medical Center
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- Electronic health records training
- Experiential learning environments
Randolph, VT
Vermont State University
- Associate - Nursing, A.S.
Online & Campus Based - Website
- NLN CNEA accredited
- 1-Year program
- Complete in in just one year
- 70 total credit hours
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 92% licensure pass rate
- $86,070 median earnings
- Bachelor's - Nursing, B.S.N.
Campus Based - Website
- National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation accredited
- 4-Year program
- Locked tuition rate
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 100% licensure pass rate
- 600 clinical hours
- Capstone required
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