2026 Best Nursing Schools in Charlotte

Rankings help nursing students identify programs that best prepare graduates for licensure success. Registerednursing.org is creating the "Best Nursing Schools in Charlotte" rankings based solely on NCLEX pass rates. This objective metric reflects how effectively schools equip students to pass this critical exam. For details on our methodology, visit https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/.

Yearly Pass Rate Trends

Charlotte area nursing programs have shown consistent improvement in NCLEX pass rates over recent years.

  • 2021: 92.5% average pass rate
  • 2022: 94.25% average pass rate
  • 2023: 98.75% average pass rate
  • 2024: 97.2% average pass rate

Biggest Improvements

Several Charlotte nursing schools demonstrated notable pass rate increases from 2024 to 2024.

  • Gaston College improved from 93% to 100% (+7 percentage points)
  • Wingate University improved from 93% to 94% (+1 percentage point)
  • Cabarrus College of Health Sciences improved from 91% to 92% (+1 percentage point)

Consistently High Performing Schools

These Charlotte nursing programs have maintained strong pass rates across multiple years with sufficient data.

  • Wingate University: 96.75% average pass rate over 4 years
  • Gaston College: 95.5% average pass rate over 4 years
  • Cabarrus College of Health Sciences: 94.25% average pass rate over 4 years
#1

Belmont Abbey College

Belmont, NC - Private 4-year - belmontabbeycollege.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor's of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Belmont Abbey College's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program integrates a rigorous medical curriculum with liberal arts and Benedictine values, emphasizing Catholic health care ethics. This four-year campus-based program prepares graduates for diverse clinical settings through hands-on experience, including opportunities at an on-campus hospital. Admission requires a 2.8 GPA, completion of prerequisite courses, and CNA I certification; an ACT or SAT entrance exam is required. The program is CCNE-accredited and boasts a 100% NCLEX pass rate for 2024, demonstrating strong preparation for licensure. Annual costs include approximately $21,500 in tuition plus a $2,500 nursing fee.

  • Four-year BSN program
  • Campus-based learning
  • Holistic nursing education
  • Accredited by CCNE
  • Requires CNA I certification
  • 2.8 GPA for admission
  • Prerequisite courses needed
  • Annual tuition $21,500
  • $2,500 nursing fee annually
  • Clinical practicum capstone
#2

Central Piedmont Community College

Charlotte, NC - Public 2-Year - cpcc.edu

Associate - Nursing, Associate Degree

Campus Based - Visit Website

Central Piedmont Community College's Associate Degree in Nursing program provides comprehensive training for aspiring nurses, with a curriculum emphasizing safety, evidence-based practice, and holistic care. This campus-based program prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam, requiring high school transcripts and meeting GPA and test score requirements for admission. NCLEX pass rates have been consistently high, reaching 100% in 2024. Accredited by ACEN and approved by the NC Board of Nursing, the program includes 69 credit hours covering anatomy, physiology, and developmental psychology, plus hands-on clinical experience. Additional costs include uniforms, immunizations, and background checks.

  • Accredited by ACEN.
  • Approved by NC Board of Nursing.
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
  • Comprehensive nursing curriculum.
  • Hands-on clinical experience.
  • Requires high school transcripts.
  • GPA and test score prerequisites.
  • Additional costs for uniforms.
  • Immunizations required.
  • Background checks mandatory.
#3

Gaston College

Dallas, NC - Public 2-Year - gaston.edu

Associate - Associate Degree Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Gaston College's ACEN-accredited Associate Degree Nursing program in Dallas, NC prepares students for dynamic healthcare environments through a comprehensive curriculum blending theory with practical experience. This campus-based program requires meeting specific academic criteria for admission, though it does not mandate ACT or SAT entrance exams. The program demonstrates strong outcomes with NCLEX pass rates reaching 100% in 2023 and 2024, following 93% in 2021 and 89% in 2022, indicating effective preparation for nursing licensure. Financial aid and scholarship opportunities are available to eligible students, complemented by support services like counseling and career development to enhance success.

  • ACEN accredited program
  • Campus-based learning
  • Comprehensive nursing curriculum
  • Financial aid available
  • Scholarship opportunities
  • Admissions criteria apply
  • Support services offered
  • Located in Dallas, NC
#4

Wingate University

Wingate, NC - Private 4-year - wingate.edu

Bachelor's - BS in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Wingate University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, ranked #4 in North Carolina, provides a comprehensive education blending arts and sciences with extensive clinical experience across diverse healthcare settings. This campus-based program requires separate admission into the upper division after completing prerequisites in the first two years, and applicants must submit ACT or SAT scores for consideration. The program emphasizes small class sizes for personalized instruction, preparing graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam. Recent NCLEX pass rates demonstrate strong outcomes: 93% in 2021, 100% in both 2022 and 2023, and 94% in 2024, reflecting the program's effectiveness in equipping students for nursing licensure and practice.

  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
  • Hands-on clinical experience
  • Small class sizes
  • Arts and sciences curriculum
  • Separate upper division admission
  • Prerequisites in first two years
  • Personalized instruction
  • Opportunities for specialization
#5

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Charlotte, NC - Public 4-Year - charlotte.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of North Carolina at Charlotte's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program provides comprehensive campus-based education blending rigorous academics with clinical experiences and simulation training. This BSN program requires applicants to submit ACT or SAT scores and maintain B grades in prerequisite courses, while also considering volunteer healthcare experience. The program emphasizes holistic patient care across diverse settings, preparing graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam with strong pass rates reaching 99% in 2024. Nurse Aide I certification is required before admission, and the program offers fall and spring start dates with expanded capacity for aspiring nurses.

  • Campus-based program
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
  • Holistic admissions review
  • Requires B in prerequisites
  • Volunteer hours considered
  • Fall and Spring admissions
  • Nurse Aide I certification required
  • Comprehensive clinical training
  • Foundation for advanced studies
  • Diverse healthcare settings focus

Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

UNC Charlotte's Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program offers an intensive four-semester pathway for degree holders transitioning to nursing. This campus-based ABSN requires a previous bachelor's or associate degree and B grades in specific science prerequisites, with no entrance exam needed. Students engage in high-fidelity simulation training and clinical experiences in state-of-the-art facilities, preparing for immediate healthcare impact. The program focuses on NCLEX-RN exam readiness, supported by competitive scholarships and requiring CNA I certification. Graduates benefit from strong NCLEX pass rates, including 94% in 2023, positioning them for diverse nursing roles.

  • Four-semester accelerated program
  • Previous degree required
  • High-fidelity simulation training
  • B or higher in science courses
  • Fall semester admission only
  • NCLEX-RN exam preparation
  • Competitive scholarship opportunities
  • Must be CNA I certified
Show 1 More Programs ˅
*Data derived from the 2024 IPEDS survey conducted by NCES.

Entry Level ADN & BSN Programs in Charlotte, NC

If you don't already have an RN license, entry-level programs are a great way to enter the field. Options in the Charlotte area include the Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) and the traditional Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN). These programs typically require a high school diploma or GED and a minimum GPA for enrollment.

LPN to RN Programs

Licensed practical nurses are well-versed in providing high-quality patient care and improving patient comfort and well-being. Many LPNs decide to expand their skills by moving into careers as registered nurses, and LPN to RN bridge programs provide LPNs with a direct pathway to RN licensure. As one example, the LPN to RN program at Sampson Community College offers a hybrid online/on-campus LPN to RN program that allows students to complete some coursework online and return to campus for certain activities such as orientation and testing. Applicants to this program must have a valid LPN license and two years of work experience as a practical nurse.

ADN Programs

The quickest route to an RN license is through an ADN program. At just two years in length, students can begin working before those enrolled in 4-year degrees have even completed their education. For example, Gaston College offers a 71 program-hour ADN program, which includes courses like Family Health Concepts, Anatomy & Physiology, and more.

Direct-Entry Accelerated BSN Programs

With many employers preferring a 4-year nursing degree, the traditional BSN pathway is an excellent choice for aspiring RNs. Wingate University offers a BSN pathway that can be completed in 8 consecutive fall and spring semesters. Courses include Science-Based Nursing, Pharmacology for Nursing, Nursing Leadership, and more. Learn more about the selection of NC ABSN offerings.

RN to BSN/MSN Programs in Charlotte, NC

Bridge programs provide a unique opportunity for RNs who have already completed an ADN or diploma program to earn their BSN or Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree. These programs give the RN credit for many of the courses they have already completed, thereby shortening the length of the program considerably.

RN to BSN Programs

This pathway leads to the most popular undergrad nursing degree: the BSN. Cabarrus College of Health Sciences, for example, offers an online RN to BSN program that can be completed in four semesters and one summer of full-time study (part-time options are also available). Of the total 122 hours of baccalaureate coursework, up to 61 credit hours are awarded from the ADN or diploma program previously completed.

Learn more about North Carolina RN to BSN Programs.

RN to MSN Programs

Like the RN to BSN pathway, the RN to MSN bridge option allows licensed RNs to earn a master's degree in nursing in a fraction of the time. The University of North Carolina at Charlotte offers an online RN to MSN program for nurses with an associate's degree in nursing. Graduates end up earning both a BSN and MSN degree throughout the program.

Learn more about North Carolina RN to MSN Programs.

List of RN to BSN/MSN Programs

If you are a registered nurse looking to advance your career, RN to BSN and MSN programs can help you reach your goals. These programs build on your existing skills and open doors to new opportunities. The table below lists schools offering these programs, along with their locations, key features, and direct links to learn more. Explore your options and find a program that fits your needs and schedule.

Belmont, NC

Belmont Abbey College

  • RN to BSN - RN to BSN

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Online 8-week accelerated format
    • 30 prior learning credits
    • CCNE accredited program
    • No out-of-state tuition
    • Catholic healthcare ethics focus
    • Flexible payment options
    • Minimum 2.0 GPA required
    • Current RN license needed

Charlotte, NC

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

  • RN to BSN - RN to BSN Completion Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Program
    • 31 Total Nursing Credit Hours
    • No Campus Visits Required
    • Flexible for Working Nurses
    • 39 Prior Learning Credits
    • 3-Semester Completion Plan
    • Covers Professional Nursing Skills
*Information from: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2024 dataset.

APRN & Nurse Practitioner Programs in Charlotte, NC

RNs interested in more advanced practice, including various nurse practitioner specialties, have a few options. The traditional MSN degree, the post-master's certificate, or the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) pathways are all possibilities, depending on a nurse's ultimate goals.

MSN Programs

Traditional MSN programs require an active RN license and a BSN degree. They typically require two years of study, with part- and full-time options widely available, and students can usually specialize in a number of nurse practitioner specialties. Queens University of Charlotte offers online MSN pathways with the following specialties: Clinical Nurse Leader, Nurse Administrator, and Nurse Educator.

Learn more about North Carolina Nurse Practitioner Programs.

Post-Master's Certificate Programs

RNs who hold an MSN but who wish to change specialties can opt to take a post-master's certificate program instead of pursuing an additional degree. This tends to be a much more cost-effective option. The University of North Carolina at Charlotte offers numerous graduate certificate pathways, including Nurse Educator, Nurse Administrator, Adult-Gerontology NP, and APRN Family Nurse Practitioner.

Find out more about North Carolina Post-Master's Certificate Programs.

DNP Programs

Doctoral programs are the most prestigious nursing degrees an RN can hold. They poise nurses for clinical practice at the highest levels. The University of North Carolina at Charlotte offers a dual DNP pathway with Western Carolina University, allowing students to access faculty at both universities. It requires an MSN in an advanced nursing specialty and can be completed in as little as five semesters.

Find out more about North Carolina DNP Programs.

List of APRN (MSN, DNP, & NP) Programs in Charlotte

If you want to become an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) in Charlotte, you can explore various MSN, DNP, and NP programs in the area. The table below lists schools in Charlotte, North Carolina, with their program highlights and direct links to program pages. This helps you find the right fit for your nursing career goals and education needs.

Charlotte, NC

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

  • BSN to MSN - Adult Psychiatric Mental Health

    Campus Based - Website

    • MSN concentration available.
    • Adult Psychiatric Mental Health focus.
    • Campus-based program.
    • Accredited by CCNE.
    • Part of College of Health and Human Services.
    • Requires BSN and RN license.
    • Includes clinical practice components.
    • Designed for working nurses.
  • BSN to MSN - Community/Public Health Nursing, M.S.N.

    Online Learning - Website

    • 38 credit hours
    • 100% online delivery
    • Spring, summer, fall admission
    • NC resident: $309.59/credit
    • Non-resident: $1,186.59/credit
    • RN licensure required
    • Bachelor's degree required
    • 3.0 GPA preferred
  • BSN to MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner Across the Lifespan

    Concentration: Across the Lifespan - Campus Based - Website

    • Primary care across lifespan focus
    • Board certification preparation
    • Multiple practice settings available
    • Wellness and prevention emphasis
    • Comprehensive healthcare leadership
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Community/Public Health Nursing - Online Learning - Website

    • Online distance education program.
    • Community/Public Health Nursing concentration.
    • Prepares for leadership roles.
    • Hands-on clinical experiences included.
    • Flexible application deadlines each semester.
    • Part of UNC Charlotte School of Nursing.
    • Focus on assessing communities and populations.
    • Develops culturally sensitive nursing services.
  • BSN to MSN - Nurse Administration, MSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online delivery
    • 36 credit hours required
    • 27-month part-time completion
    • Admission in spring, summer, fall
    • Requires RN licensure
    • 3.0 GPA preferred
    • One year nursing practice recommended
    • 360 clinical hours required
  • BSN to MSN - Nurse Educator, M.S.N.

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online program
    • 39 total credit hours
    • Admits spring/summer/fall
    • Resident tuition $288.82/credit
    • Requires 1 year nursing practice
    • NLN certification eligible
    • Clinical practicum included
    • 3.0 GPA preferred
  • Nursing, M.S.N. - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Nurse Anesthesia Across the Lifespan - Campus Based - Website

    • Terminal practice degree in Nursing
    • Nurse Anesthesia Concentration
    • Partnership with Atrium Health
    • On-campus clinical experiences
    • Prepares for national certification
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program with synchronous immersion
    • 42 credit hours total
    • Post-master's degree pathway
    • 1000 total clinical practice hours
    • Resident tuition $288.82 per credit
    • Post-master's advanced nursing preparation
    • Flexible coursework for professionals
    • Leadership and innovation focus
*U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS 2024, National Center for Education Statistics.

Comprehensive List of Nursing Schools Near Charlotte, NC

If you're looking for nursing schools near Charlotte, NC, you'll find many options. This list helps you explore programs in the area. It includes each school's location, key program details, and direct links to their program pages. You can easily compare different schools and find the right fit for your nursing education goals. Check the table below to start your search.
Jump to City:

Belmont, NC

Belmont Abbey College

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor's of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Four-year BSN program
    • Campus-based learning
    • Holistic nursing education
    • Accredited by CCNE
    • Requires CNA I certification
    • 2.8 GPA for admission
    • Prerequisite courses needed
    • Annual tuition $21,500

Charlotte, NC

Central Piedmont Community College

  • Associate - Nursing, Associate Degree

    Campus Based - Website

    • Accredited by ACEN.
    • Approved by NC Board of Nursing.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
    • Comprehensive nursing curriculum.
    • Hands-on clinical experience.
    • Requires high school transcripts.
    • GPA and test score prerequisites.
    • Additional costs for uniforms.

Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Second Degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 16-month full-time accelerated program
    • Scholarships up to $12,000 available
    • Requires existing bachelor's degree
    • Cohort-based learning model
    • Advanced simulation training facilities
    • Interprofessional healthcare education
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
    • Clinical rotations across specialties

Queens University of Charlotte

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor's in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 61 credit hours
    • One-year completion
    • Campus-based program
    • Financial aid available
    • Strong job placement
    • Hands-on clinical training
    • Expert faculty support
    • NCLEX preparation

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Four-semester accelerated program
    • Previous degree required
    • High-fidelity simulation training
    • B or higher in science courses
    • Fall semester admission only
    • NCLEX-RN exam preparation
    • Competitive scholarship opportunities
    • Must be CNA I certified
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
    • Holistic admissions review
    • Requires B in prerequisites
    • Volunteer hours considered
    • Fall and Spring admissions
    • Nurse Aide I certification required
    • Comprehensive clinical training

Concord, NC

Cabarrus College of Health Sciences

  • Associate - Associate of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Finish in two years.
    • 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio.
    • Clinical experience starts first month.
    • 95% NCLEX-RN pass rate.
    • Affordable with financial aid.
    • Part-time options available.
    • 95% employment rate post-graduation.
    • Affiliated with Atrium Health.
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Four-year nursing degree
    • Direct admission into program
    • Small class sizes
    • Early clinical experience
    • High-tech simulation labs
    • Affordable tuition
    • Financial aid available
    • Pipeline to Atrium Health jobs

Dallas, NC

Gaston College

  • Associate - Associate Degree Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • ACEN accredited program
    • Campus-based learning
    • Comprehensive nursing curriculum
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarship opportunities
    • Admissions criteria apply
    • Support services offered
    • Located in Dallas, NC

Wingate, NC

Wingate University

  • Bachelor's - BS in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Ranked #4 in NC
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
    • Hands-on clinical experience
    • Small class sizes
    • Arts and sciences curriculum
    • Separate upper division admission
    • Prerequisites in first two years
    • Personalized instruction
*Federal data source: IPEDS 2024, administered by NCES.