2026 Best Nursing Schools in Cincinnati

#1

Cincinnati State Technical and Community College

Cincinnati, OH - Public 4-Year - cincinnatistate.edu

Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Cincinnati State Technical and Community College offers an Associate Degree in Nursing, preparing students for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program requires a 2.75 GPA, background checks, and specific science prerequisites. Graduates can work in various healthcare settings. The curriculum includes anatomy, microbiology, and nursing concepts, with clinical experience. Financial aid and transfer options are available. Accredited by ACEN, the program ensures quality education for aspiring nurses.

  • Accredited by ACEN.
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
  • Requires 2.75 GPA.
  • Background checks mandatory.
  • Science prerequisites needed.
  • Includes clinical experience.
  • Financial aid available.
  • Transfer options offered.
  • Anatomy and microbiology courses.
  • Nursing concepts covered.

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Cincinnati State Technical and Community College in Ohio offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, marking a significant milestone as one of the first community colleges in Ohio to do so. This program addresses the regional shortage of nurses by providing a unique in-person RN to BSN pathway, unlike any other local option. It stands out by offering a complete nursing career pathway from STNA to BSN, saving students time and money by eliminating the need to transfer colleges. The program is set to begin in Fall 2023, pending final approval, and is designed for both new nursing students and those looking to advance their careers.

  • In-person RN to BSN program
  • Complete nursing career pathway
  • Saves time and money
  • Pending Fall 2023 start
  • Addresses regional nurse shortage
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#2

Good Samaritan College of Nursing and Health Science

Cincinnati, OH - Private 4-year - gscollege.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing Completion Program

Online Learning - Visit Website

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing Completion Program at Good Samaritan College is designed for RNs aiming to advance their careers. This online program blends independent study with faculty support, focusing on leadership, technology, and interprofessional collaboration. It prepares graduates for advanced studies and diverse healthcare settings. The curriculum includes 27 nursing credits and 3 general education credits, with flexible seven-week sessions. Financial aid options are available, making it accessible for working professionals seeking to enhance their skills and opportunities in nursing.

  • Online program flexibility.
  • 27 nursing credits required.
  • Prepares for advanced studies.
  • Focus on leadership and technology.
  • Interprofessional collaboration emphasis.
  • Seven-week session format.
  • Financial aid available.
  • Designed for working professionals.
  • Enhances career opportunities.
#3

Mount St. Joseph University

Cincinnati, OH - Private 4-year - msj.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Mount St. Joseph University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) prepares students to become professional nurses who deliver patient-centered, evidence-based care. With a remarkable 100% 2024 NCLEX pass rate and nearly a century of nursing education experience, this program equips students with comprehensive clinical skills and critical thinking abilities. Students engage in diverse learning experiences including labs, clinical rotations, and simulation training. The program offers direct admission and prepares graduates for various nursing specialties like critical care, pediatrics, and management, with strong job prospects in a rapidly growing healthcare field.

  • Direct admission nursing program
  • 100% 2024 NCLEX Pass Rate
  • Nearly 100 years of experience
  • Hands-on clinical learning
  • Multiple nursing career paths
  • High-tech skills lab
  • Interdisciplinary team preparation
  • Culturally sensitive care focus
  • Evidence-based practice training
  • Multiple complementary minor options
#4

The Christ College of Nursing and Health Sciences

Cincinnati, OH - Private 4-year - thechristcollege.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at The Christ College of Nursing and Health Sciences in Cincinnati, OH, offers a personalized pathway to meet your healthcare career goals. With options for a 3 or 4-year completion, this CCNE-accredited program prepares graduates to improve global health care. Students benefit from small class sizes, skill labs with patient simulators, and guaranteed clinical placements. The curriculum includes hands-on learning and theoretical knowledge, covering areas like medical-surgical nursing, mental health, and pediatric care. Admission requires a 2.75 GPA for high school or college students, with provisional options available. The program fosters a supportive learning environment, ensuring student success in the nursing field.

  • 3 or 4-year pathways.
  • CCNE accredited program.
  • Small class sizes.
  • Hands-on skill labs.
  • Guaranteed clinical placement.
  • Personalized learning paths.
  • Comprehensive nursing curriculum.
  • Focus on student success.
  • Innovative teaching methods.
  • Prepares for global healthcare.
#5

University of Cincinnati

Cincinnati, OH - Public 4-Year - uc.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at the University of Cincinnati offers a direct-admission pathway, eliminating the need for a competitive application process post-admission. Located in the heart of Ohio's medical campus, students benefit from unparalleled clinical experiences at top-tier facilities, including a Level I Trauma Center and the nation's leading pediatric hospital. The program emphasizes hands-on learning and interprofessional collaboration, preparing graduates for diverse roles in healthcare. Admission is open to high school students directly, with transition and transfer students eligible for sophomore entry. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, patient advocacy, and professional excellence in nursing.

  • Direct-admission pathway available.
  • Located in Ohio's medical campus.
  • Clinical experiences at top facilities.
  • Hands-on learning emphasized.
  • Interprofessional collaboration focus.
  • Prepares for diverse healthcare roles.
  • High school students eligible.
  • Transfer students welcome.
  • Fosters critical thinking skills.
  • Promotes patient advocacy.
*From: U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS 2024. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Entry Level ADN, BSN, & MSN Programs in Cincinnati, OH

Entry-level nursing programs are designed for those who have no prior registered nursing experience. High school graduates or those looking to make a career change can opt for programs such as the Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), or even an accelerated Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN).

LPN to RN Programs

Licensed practical nurses have already gained knowledge in providing basic patient care as part of their LPN coursework and work experience. For LPNs who want to become RNs to earn higher salaries and take on a larger role in patient care, an LPN to RN bridge program provides an accelerated pathway to RN licensure. The LPN to RN program at Cincinnati State lets students enter the nursing course sequence at the third level, taking the bridge and transition courses that verify basic nursing skills and also cover pediatric nursing skills and related clinical experiences. After completing their first semester of coursework, students in the LPN to RN program can apply for advanced standing in the program that further accelerates the timeframe to completion of the Associate’s Degree in Nursing.

ADN Programs

The ADN degree pathway is considered the most basic of RN degrees. After just two years of study, students are ready to work with patients in various healthcare settings. Cincinnati State, for example, offers an associate's degree where students take courses such as Anatomy & Physiology, Nursing Concepts, and Microbiology. ADN programs are commonly found at community colleges and technical schools.

Direct-Entry Accelerated BSN (ABSN) Programs

With an increasing number of hospitals and other employers requiring or favoring a 4-year nursing degree, the traditional BSN is a go-to choice for aspiring RNs. Miami University offers a pre-licensure BSN program aimed at preparing students to care for patients from diverse populations. Courses taken include Therapeutic Communication in Nursing, Nursing Research, and more.

Find out more about Ohio Accelerated BSN Programs.

Direct-Entry MSN Programs

These unique graduate nursing programs allow those without RN licenses a direct pathway to an advanced nursing degree. This is an ideal opportunity for those who know they want to practice at high levels. Mount St. Joseph University, for example, offers what they call an MSN-MAGELIN (Master's Graduate Entry Level into Nursing). This program is designed for those who hold a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field.

Find out more about Ohio Accelerated MSN Programs.

RN to BSN/MSN Programs in Cincinnati, OH

For RNs who hold an ADN or diploma, an RN to BSN or RN to MSN bridge program can advance their career opportunities in an accelerated format. These programs give enrolled students credit for the courses they have already completed, making them shorter and more cost-effective.

RN to BSN Programs

The RN to BSN pathway allows registered nurses to earn a bachelor's degree in nursing in just about 2 years. In the Cincinnati area, Good Samaritan College of Nursing and Health Science offers an RN to BSN with a total of 48 credit hours for completion. The curriculum includes courses in healthy aging, statistics, and continuity of care.

Learn more about Ohio RN to BSN Programs.

RN to MSN Programs

Like its RN to BSN counterpart, the RN to MSN program allows RNs to earn a master's degree in nursing, increasing a nurse's earning potential exponentially. Xavier University, for example, offers an RN to MSN to students who do not hold a bachelor's degree. It requires 36 credit hours and is delivered in an 8-week course structure.

Learn more about Ohio RN to MSN Programs.

Cincinnati, OH

Cincinnati State Technical and Community College

  • RN to BSN - Nursing RN-to-BSN Completion Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • First community college BSN program
    • In-person RN-to-BSN format
    • Complete nursing career pathway
    • Addresses local nursing shortage
    • No transfer requirements necessary

The Christ College of Nursing and Health Sciences

  • RN to BSN - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online program.
    • Flexible full and part-time options.
    • No mandatory login times.
    • Affordable tuition rates.
    • Reputation for nursing excellence.
    • Designed for working nurses.
    • Enhance nursing credentials.
    • Prepares for leadership roles.

University of Cincinnati

  • RN to BSN - RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online program
    • No clinical requirements
    • Only 9 nursing courses
    • Six annual start dates
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Flexible completion time
    • Easy credit transfer
    • Public Health Nursing option
  • RN to BSN - RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Nurse Educator - Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online program
    • No clinical requirements
    • Nine nursing courses total
    • Six annual start dates
    • Nurse Educator track available
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Flexible completion timelines
    • Part-time and full-time options
  • RN to BSN - RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Public Health Nursing - Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online program
    • No clinical requirements
    • 9 nursing courses total
    • Six annual start dates
    • Public Health Nursing option
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Flexible completion timeline
    • Tuition $564 per credit hour
  • RN to MSN - MSN and MHI Programs Online

    Concentration: Health Informatics - Online Learning - Website

    • No IT background required
    • GRE/GMAT not required
    • 100% online format
    • Designed for working professionals
    • Focus on healthcare technology

Xavier University

  • RN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Forensics Track

    Concentration: Forensic Nursing - Online Learning - Website

    • 37 credit hours
    • Online program
    • $722 per credit hour
    • CCNE accredited
    • Forensic Nursing concentration
    • 2-3 year completion
    • No GRE required
    • Flexible for working professionals
*U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2024.

APRN & Nurse Practitioner Programs in Cincinnati, OH

For those committed to obtaining the highest nurse practitioner positions, an advanced degree is required. In and around Cincinnati, the Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) pathways are all possibilities.

MSN Programs

The traditional MSN degree can be completed in roughly 2 years once a BSN has been obtained. A number of advanced specialties are available as part of the MSN curriculum. For example, Xavier University offers an MSN degree with specialization tracks including Administration, Clinical Nurse Leader, Informatics, Family Nurse Practitioner, and more.

Learn more about Ohio Nurse Practitioner Programs.

DNP Programs

Doctoral nursing program are the highest degrees that RNs can earn. Focusing on clinical practice, these programs can propel nurses to advanced positions in a variety of areas. The University of Cincinnati offers a BSN to DNP program in a variety of specialties, including Nurse Anesthesia, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and many more.

Learn more about Ohio DNP Programs.

Cincinnati, OH

Mount St. Joseph University

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Clinical Nurse Leader - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Six-semester part-time program
    • Hybrid learning format
    • Three specialized tracks available
    • Small class sizes
    • Practicum and integrative project
    • Credits applicable to DNP
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Ohio Board of Nursing approved
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Nursing Education - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Nursing Education track available
    • Six-semester program completion
    • Part-time blended learning format
    • Interactive online courses
    • Small class sizes
    • Practicum and integrative project
    • Cohort model support
    • Four courses apply to DNP
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Nursing Administration - Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format.
    • Nursing Administration concentration.
    • Six-semester part-time schedule.
    • Summers off included.
    • Small class sizes.
    • Cohort model for support.
    • Relevant practicum required.
    • Evidence-based integrative project.
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Health Systems Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Fully online part-time program
    • Six semester completion time
    • Cohort learning model
    • Advanced nursing leadership focus
    • Practicum experience included
    • CCNE and HLC accredited
    • Smaller class sizes
    • Summers off

University of Cincinnati

  • BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • 2-year online MSN program
    • Care for patients 13+
    • Comprehensive healthcare training
    • Multiple practice settings
    • Preventative and chronic care focus
  • BSN to MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • 2-year full-time online program
    • 100% online, no site visits
    • BSN required for admission
    • One year RN experience needed
    • 95% FNP certification pass rate
    • Flexible semester offerings
    • Asynchronous coursework
    • Federal financial aid available
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Neonatal Nurse Practitioner

    Concentration: Neonatal - Online Learning - Website

    • Online neonatal nursing program
    • Advanced practice specialty focus
    • Prepares nurses for complex care
    • Part of MSN program offerings
    • Experienced nursing professionals
  • BSN to MSN - Nurse Midwifery

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online MSN program.
    • Nurse Midwifery specialization.
    • Prepares for AMCB certification.
    • Primary care provider focus.
    • Sexual and reproductive health.
    • Labor and newborn care.
    • University of Cincinnati accredited.
    • Admission requirements apply.
  • BSN to MSN - Nursing Administration MSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online asynchronous classes.
    • Focus on evidence-based practice.
    • Prepares for national certification.
    • Requires BSN and RN experience.
    • Flexible for working professionals.
    • Curriculum includes health care management.
    • Leads to leadership roles in healthcare.
    • Emphasizes quality improvement.
  • BSN to MSN - Nursing Education

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online Nursing Education program
    • Prepares nurses for teaching roles
    • Flexible online coursework
    • Spring/Fall/Summer start dates
    • Multiple application deadlines
    • Academic and clinical teaching focus
  • BSN to MSN - Women's Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online program
    • Three start dates yearly
    • Flexible scheduling options
    • Certified faculty instructors
    • Experienced clinical practitioners
    • Primary care provider focus
    • Puberty through lifespan care
    • Wellness promotion emphasis
  • MSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid DNP program format
    • Minimum 3-year completion time
    • Advanced clinical skills training
    • Hands-on campus sessions
    • Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana residents
    • One year acute care experience required
    • Certification exam preparation
    • Faculty with current practice experience
  • MSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online DNP program
    • Care for patients 13+
    • No GRE required
    • BSN to DNP pathway
    • National certification prep
    • 3.25 GPA recommended
    • DNP project included
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice in Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • DNP-level Family Nurse Practitioner
    • Comprehensive patient care training
    • Prepares for national certification
    • Works across all patient ages
    • Requires BSN and RN experience
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online flexible coursework
    • Multiple DNP specialty tracks
    • Faculty with doctorate preparation
    • Evidence-based practice focus
    • Advanced leadership training
    • Practice-focused doctoral degree
    • Supports work-life balance
    • Comprehensive DNP project
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Adult-Gero Acute Care NP - Online Learning - Website

    • Online program with flexible scheduling
    • Prepares nurses for acute care
    • Specializes in patients 13+
    • Mostly online coursework
    • DNP project requirement
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Occupational Health Nursing - Online Learning - Website

    • Eight-semester comprehensive program
    • Full and part-time options
    • Flexible course scheduling
    • Two specialized practicum experiences
    • Evidence-based leadership focus
    • Scholarships and stipends available
    • Interprofessional field experiences
    • Advanced public health skills
  • MSN to DNP - Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner DNP

    Concentration: Acute Care - Online Learning - Website

    • Ranked #3 Online Pediatric NP Program
    • Requires 1+ year pediatric RN experience
    • Online DNP program format
    • Prepares for national certification
    • Advanced pediatric acute care focus
  • MSN to DNP - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online asynchronous program
    • Advanced practice nursing preparation
    • Nationally recognized certification eligibility
    • Versatile clinical practice settings
    • Faculty with active clinical experience

Xavier University

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) - Education Track

    Online Learning - Website

    • 37 total credit hours
    • Fully online program
    • $722 per credit hour
    • No GRE required
    • 2 practicum experiences
    • CCNE accredited program
    • 2-3 year completion time
    • No on-campus requirements
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Forensics Track

    Concentration: Forensic Nursing - Online Learning - Website

    • 37 total credit hours
    • Online program format
    • CCNE accredited
    • No GRE required
    • $722 per credit hour
    • 2-3 year completion time
    • Minimum 1 year nursing experience
    • 3.0 GPA recommended
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • 47 total credit hours
    • 2-3 year program length
    • $722 per credit hour
    • CCNE accredited program
    • No GRE required for admission
    • 4 clinical practicum courses
    • 600 total clinical hours
    • Online asynchronous format
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice in Population Health Leadership

    Concentration: Population Health Leadership - Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online DNP program
    • 40 credit hour curriculum
    • 2.5-3 year completion time
    • $767 per credit hour
    • HLC & CCNE accredited
    • 1000 clinical immersion hours
    • Jesuit Catholic tradition
    • Leadership-focused curriculum

Hamilton, OH

Miami University-Hamilton

  • BSN to MSN - MSN-MBA Dual Degree

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • Online program delivery.
    • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration.
    • Three-year program length.
    • Includes clinical practicum hours.
    • Combines MSN and MBA degrees.
    • Focus on primary care skills.
    • Covers healthcare delivery systems.
    • Includes business management courses.
  • BSN to MSN - MSN-MBA Dual Degree

    Concentration: Nurse Executive Leadership - Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format.
    • Nurse Executive Leadership concentration.
    • 33 credit hours total.
    • Includes practicum experiences.
    • Combines MSN and MBA degrees.
    • Healthcare budgeting courses.
    • Data analytics in healthcare.
    • Human resource management focus.
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 100% Online Coursework
    • 21-Month Full-Time Program
    • August 1 Application Deadline
    • Fall Semester Start Date
    • 630 Clinical Training Hours
    • Guaranteed Clinical Placement
    • Comprehensive Skills Workshop
    • CCNE Accredited Program
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Nurse Executive Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • MSN with Nurse Executive Leadership concentration
    • Hybrid program format
    • Accredited by CCNE
    • Seamless MSN to DNP progression
    • Prepares for healthcare leadership roles
    • Focus on evidence-based practice
    • Quality improvement emphasis
    • Online coursework available
*Citation: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2024. Available at: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/