2027 Best Nursing Schools in Cleveland

Rankings help prospective nursing students compare program quality and make informed decisions. Registerednursing.org created these Best Nursing Schools in Cleveland rankings to highlight programs with exceptional outcomes. Using NCLEX pass rates as the sole ranking criteria, this analysis offers an objective look at regional nursing education. For methodology, visit https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/.

Yearly Pass Rate Trends

Pass rates in the Cleveland region remained stable and high, reflecting consistent program quality across the two-year period. The number of students taking the exam also remained steady.

  • 2023: Average pass rate of 91.51% across 542 students
  • 2024: Average pass rate of 92.39% across 539 students

Top Performing Schools

Several programs achieved outstanding average pass rates over the measured period, with the top three all exceeding 93%.

  • Hiram College: 100% average pass rate (22 students)
  • Baldwin Wallace University: 100% average pass rate (36 students)
  • Lorain County Community College: 93.95% average pass rate (248 students)

Pass Rate by Program Size

Programs were categorized by average annual student cohort size. Small programs (fewer than 50 students) showed perfect pass rates, while large programs (more than 100 students) also performed strongly.

  • Small programs: 100% average pass rate (23 students)
  • Large programs: 92.05% average pass rate (516 students)

Consistently High Performing Schools

Schools with two or more years of data and average pass rates above 90% demonstrate sustained excellence. The following institutions met this benchmark.

  • Hiram College: 100% average pass rate (22 students, 2 years)
  • Baldwin Wallace University: 100% average pass rate (36 students, 2 years)
  • Lorain County Community College: 93.95% average pass rate (248 students, 2 years)
  • Kent State University: 90.71% average pass rate (775 students, 2 years)
#1

Baldwin Wallace University

Berea, OH - Private 4-year - bw.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Baldwin Wallace University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree through both traditional and accelerated tracks. The program is taught by experienced faculty, including doctors of nursing practice and clinical specialists. Students benefit from dedicated coordinators for each track and a Director of Clinical Education who oversees clinical placements. The program prepares graduates for nursing careers and licensure.

  • Traditional BSN track offered
  • Accelerated BSN track offered
  • Director of Clinical Education
  • DNP-prepared faculty
  • MSN-prepared faculty

Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Baldwin Wallace's Accelerated BSN is a 15-month, full-time program for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree. The curriculum uses concept-based learning to develop critical thinking and clinical skills. You'll complete 63 credits including over 700 hours of clinical rotations at top hospitals like Cleveland Clinic. Graduates are prepared for the NCLEX-RN and consistently achieve a 100% first-time pass rate. The program features small clinical groups, experienced faculty who are practicing nurses, and no entrance exam requirement. Scholarships like the Choose Ohio First award are available for Ohio residents. Upon completion, you'll be ready for nursing roles in diverse healthcare settings.

  • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
  • No entrance exam required
  • $44,348 total program tuition
  • 15-Month program
  • 63 total credit hours
  • Apply by 2026-05-30
  • Rolling admissions
  • Full-time enrollment
  • 1 start dates per year
  • Starts fall
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#2

Hiram College

Hiram, OH - Private 4-year - hiram.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Hiram College's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program prepares compassionate, clinically competent nurses ready for diverse healthcare settings. The program combines liberal arts with hands-on clinical experience, starting in sophomore year at premier facilities across Northeast Ohio. Curriculum covers anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, and nursing foundations. Graduates are prepared for roles in acute care, outpatient settings, and community health. With a 100% NCLEX pass rate for three consecutive years and CCNE accreditation, the program ensures high standards. Students benefit from a tuition guarantee, small class sizes, and opportunities through the Hiram Student Nurses' Association. Direct entry for qualified high school students and transfer pathways are available. Optional minor in biomedical humanities adds depth. The program requires 128 credit hours and offers a supportive learning environment focused on ethical, holistic care.

  • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
  • 4-Year program
  • Locked tuition rate
  • 128 total credit hours
  • 100% licensure pass rate
  • Prepares for NCLEX
  • Clinical sites across Northeast Ohio
  • Tuition guarantee for four years
  • Direct entry for high school GPA 3.5
  • Optional minor in biomedical humanities
#3

Lorain County Community College

Elyria, OH - Public 4-Year - lorainccc.edu

Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) at Lorain County Community College prepares you to become a registered nurse. You'll learn to provide direct patient care, assess symptoms, and assist in treatment and rehabilitation. The curriculum emphasizes patient advocacy, health education, and disease prevention. You'll work alongside physicians and other healthcare professionals in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and schools. After completing the program, you earn an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing and must pass the NCLEX for RN licensure. This traditional campus-based program focuses on developing compassion, responsibility, and teamwork. You'll gain skills in delegation, supervision, and patient communication. Prepare for a rewarding career caring for patients and promoting wellness in your community.

  • Prepares for NCLEX
  • Careers in hospitals and clinics
  • Associate of Applied Science degree
  • Patient advocacy and health education
  • Work under physicians and specialists

Associate - Licensed Practical Nurse to Registered Nurse (LPN to RN)

Campus Based - Visit Website

This LPN to RN advanced placement program at Lorain County Community College allows licensed practical nurses to earn an Associate of Applied Science degree and become registered nurses. The curriculum covers nursing concepts, pharmacology, anatomy and physiology, microbiology, and behavioral health nursing. Students develop skills in patient-centered care, evidence-based practice, and interprofessional teamwork. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam and work in hospitals, nursing homes, and other health care settings. The program offers credit for prior nursing coursework, articulation agreements with four-year universities, and Credit for Prior Learning options. Admission requires completion of prerequisites, a 2.5 GPA, and a proficient score on the ATI TEAS exam. The program features a capstone course and multiple start dates each year.

  • Entrance exam required
  • Exams: TEAS
  • 56 total credit hours
  • Starts fall/spring
  • 2.5 GPA minimum
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Capstone required
  • Prepares for NCLEX
  • Credit for prior nursing coursework
  • Articulation agreements with colleges and universities
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#4

Case Western Reserve University

Cleveland, OH - Private 4-year - case.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at Case Western Reserve University’s Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing offers a rich academic experience that blends theory with hands-on practice. From day one, nursing courses and clinical placements immerse students in real-world healthcare settings, with over 1,000 clinical hours. The curriculum emphasizes interprofessional teamwork alongside medical, dental, and social work students, preparing graduates for collaborative patient care. Research opportunities and state-of-the-art simulation labs enhance learning. Unique features include direct admission—no second application or pre-nursing requirements—allowing immediate focus on nursing. This on-campus program in Cleveland develops leaders ready for careers in hospitals, community health, and beyond.

  • Direct Admission to undergraduate program
  • No second application required
  • No pre-nursing requirements
  • Nursing courses start first semester
  • Clinical placements begin first semester
  • Over 1000 clinical hours
  • Interprofessional teamwork with healthcare students
  • State-of-the-art simulation center
#5

Cuyahoga Community College District

Cleveland, OH - Public 4-Year - tri-c.edu

Associate - Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Cuyahoga Community College's Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (ADN) program offers a seamless pathway from nurse aide to registered nurse. Over two years, you'll build essential clinical skills through hands-on experience at Northeast Ohio healthcare agencies, caring for patients across medical, surgical, pediatric, obstetric, and geriatric settings. The curriculum blends nursing concepts with real-world practice, preparing you for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam. Choose from day, evening, or weekend classes at four campus locations. The program features two entry tracks based on your prior education and admits new students each fall and spring on a first-come, first-served basis. After your first year, you'll earn a practical nursing certificate and qualify for the NCLEX-PN. With support from clinical partnerships and dedicated faculty, you'll develop the adaptability and expertise needed to excel in this fast-growing field.

  • 2-Year program
  • Complete in two-year nursing program
  • Rolling admissions
  • 2 start dates per year
  • Starts fall/spring
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Pathway from STNA to LPN to RN
  • Clinical experiences at Northeast Ohio agencies
  • Day, evening, and weekend classes

Associate - Nursing LPN to ADN Access Track (LPN to RN)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Cuyahoga Community College's LPN to ADN Access Track offers licensed practical nurses a pathway to earn an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing and become a registered nurse. Designed for working professionals, this hybrid program features evening lectures and labs at the Metropolitan Campus, with clinical rotations at various acute care facilities across Northeast Ohio. The curriculum builds on your LPN foundation, covering advanced nursing concepts, patient care, and critical thinking. Graduates are prepared for the NCLEX-RN and roles in hospitals and healthcare settings. The program starts each spring and can be completed in four semesters, providing a flexible schedule for those balancing work and studies. A current, unrestricted LPN license is required for admission.

  • 4-Semester program
  • Starts spring
  • Evening lectures and labs
  • Clinicals at acute care settings
  • Modified Evening/Weekend program
  • Spring semester start
  • Current LPN license required

Bachelor's - RN to BSN Nursing Continuum

Online Learning - Visit Website

The RN to BSN Nursing Continuum provides registered nurses a flexible pathway to advance their careers through an online bachelor's degree program. Designed for working professionals, this program enables seamless transition from associate's to bachelor's degree, meeting growing industry standards. Students complete 27 nursing credits in three semesters, with competitive in-state tuition and potential scholarship opportunities.

  • Online BSN program
  • 27 total nursing credits
  • Three consecutive semesters
  • Lower CSU tuition rate
  • Scholarship opportunities available
  • Supports career advancement
  • Meets industry BSN requirements
Show 2 More Programs ˅
*Citation: IPEDS 2025, National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. DOE.

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

An entry-level nursing program is designed to introduce students to the nursing profession, and features traditional didactic coursework along with clinical practice hours. In the Cleveland area, there are a number of options for entering the nursing field, including Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs, Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs (BSN), LPN to RN programs for practical nurses who want to transition to a career as a registered nurse, and direct-entry Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs.

LPN to RN Programs

LPN to RN programs are designed to help licensed practical nurses become registered nurses by building on existing coursework and experience. Cuyahoga Community College offers an LPN to RN program that is completed in three semesters of evening lectures and labs for LPNs with at least one year of nursing experience.

ADN Programs

ADN programs are entry-level programs designed for students new to nursing, and can generally be completed in around two years of study. They prepare students to take the NCLEX-RN licensing exam and secure their first job as an RN. Lorain County Community College is one of several community colleges and vocational schools in the Cleveland area that offer ADN programs for aspiring nurses.

Direct-Entry Accelerated BSN (ABSN) Programs

Like ADN programs, BSN programs prepare students for their first jobs as nurses and to sit for the licensing exam. However, BSN programs take longer to complete and provide additional coursework in liberal arts, nursing research, evidence-based care principles, and nursing leadership. Cleveland State University offers a BSN program that features evening classes and clinical practicums on the weekends to provide flexibility for working students.

Find out more about Ohio Accelerated BSN Programs

Direct-Entry MSN Programs

Some students decide to pursue a career in nursing after they have already gotten their bachelor’s degree in another subject. For these students, some schools offer direct-entry master’s in nursing programs, in which students complete bachelor’s-level coursework in nursing followed immediately by master’s-level study of nursing and graduate with the master’s degree. These programs are usually on an accelerated pace and are academically rigorous. Case Western Reserve University offers a direct-entry MSN program that prepares students for careers as advanced generalist registered nurses.

Find out more about Ohio Accelerated MSN Programs

RN to BSN Programs in Cleveland, OH

ADN-educated nurses with a valid RN license may choose to pursue an RN to BSN “bridge” program in order to earn a higher degree within nursing. These programs often offer partial course credit for ADN coursework in order to help nurses earn a bachelor’s degree at a faster pace. In some cases, these bridge programs are offered in an online format that allows nurses to continue working while they study.

RN to BSN Programs

RN to BSN bridge programs allow nurses with their ADN to earn their bachelor’s degree in nursing. In many cases, nurses with bachelor’s degrees earn higher salaries and have more career opportunities than nurses with their associate’s degree. Designed for nurses with their associate’s degree or diploma, the RN to BSN program at Kent State University is available to take on full-time or part-time basis fully online and can be completed in as little as 12 months.

Find out more about Ohio RN to BSN Programs

List of RN to BSN/MSN Programs

Explore the table below to discover RN to BSN and RN to MSN programs across the country. Each listing includes the school's location, program highlights, and a direct link to learn more. Whether aiming for a bachelor's or master's degree, these pathways help registered nurses advance their education and careers. Review the options to find a program that fits professional goals and needs.
Jump to City:

Burton, OH

Kent State University at Geauga

  • RN to BSN - Nursing for Registered Nurses (RN to BSN)

    Online Learning - Website

    • CCNE accredited
    • Online RN to BSN
    • BSN coordinator available

Cleveland, OH

Cleveland State University

  • RN to BSN - RN to BSN Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • $240 per credit
    • 3-Semester program
    • Complete in complete the CSU Online RN to BSN program in only three semesters
    • 27 total credit hours
    • 11 total courses
    • 95% on-time graduation rate
    • Prepares for graduate nursing programs
    • Career advancement assistance

Kent, OH

Kent State University

  • RN to BSN - Nursing for Registered Nurses

    Online Learning - Website

    • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
    • $12,000 total program tuition
    • $400 per credit
    • 12-Month program
    • 30 total credit hours
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • 2.0 GPA minimum
    • $93,600 median earnings
*Based on: IPEDS 2025, U.S. Department of Education. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

APRN & Nurse Practitioner Programs in Cleveland, OH

For nurses who already hold the BSN degree and would like to advance their careers to become nurse practitioners, clinical nurse leaders, nurse educators, administrators or other leadership positions within their organizations, an advanced practice nursing degree program is a good choice. In the Cleveland area, RNs can choose from Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs, graduate certificate programs, and doctoral programs in nursing.

MSN Programs

MSN programs are ideal for nurses with their BSN who would like to become certified in an advanced practice specialty such as various nurse practitioner roles, educators or clinical nurse leaders. Most programs allow you to concentrate your studies along a particular career goal, and some are available in a flexible online format. Case Western Reserve University offers an MSN program with a variety of majors, including nursing anesthesia, family nurse practitioner, pediatric nurse practitioner, education with a population focus among many others.

Find out more about Ohio Nurse Practitioner Programs

Post-Master's Certificate Programs

Post-master's certificate programs are designed to help nurses with their master’s degree learn a new specialty area of nursing and become certified without having to repeat their previous master’s-level coursework. Kent State University, for example, offers a number of post-graduate certificate programs including ones in nurse education, nursing and healthcare management, and various nurse practitioner roles.

Find out more about Ohio Post-Master's Certificate Programs

DNP & PhD Programs

In the Cleveland area, a few schools also offer programs that allow students to earn their doctorate in nursing. Schools like the University of Akron offer Doctor of Nursing Practice program (DNP), which train nurses for leadership positions designing, implementing and evaluating healthcare delivery practices. Kent State University also offers a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in nursing that prepares nurse scientists to conduct research and develop methods for improving healthcare.

Find out more about Ohio DNP Programs

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

We have gathered a list of APRN programs in Cleveland, Ohio, for nurses ready to advance. These MSN, DNP, and NP options offer strong clinical training and flexible schedules. Below, find a table showing each school's location, program highlights, and direct links to their program pages. Whether aiming for a nurse practitioner role or a leadership position, this guide helps compare top choices in the area.
Jump to City:

Burton, OH

Kent State University at Geauga

  • BSN to MSN - M.S.N./M.B.A. Dual Degree

    Campus Based - Website

    • MSN/MBA dual degree.
    • 58 credit hours required.
    • Flexible online and campus options.
    • Minimum 3.000 GPA for admission.
    • Active RN license required.
    • Bachelor's degree in nursing needed.
    • Competitive admission process.
    • Courses in finance and leadership.
  • BSN to MSN - Nursing Administration and Health Systems Leadership

    Campus Based - Website

    • 100% online delivery.
    • Full-time completion in two years.
    • Part-time options available.
    • No campus visits required.
    • Integrates management and nursing knowledge.
    • Prepares for mid- to upper-level management.
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required.
    • Active RN license needed.

Cleveland, OH

Case Western Reserve University

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

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format.
    • 40 credit hours required.
    • 600 clinical hours minimum.
    • 18-24 month completion time.
    • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care focus.
    • Flight nursing specialty option.
    • Nursing background required.
    • Financial aid available.
  • BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 18-Month program
    • 41 total credit hours
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • 600 clinical hours
    • Distance-friendly with 8 campus visits
    • Dual degree options in Bioethics, Anthropology, Public Health
    • Post-graduate APRN certificates available
    • Emphasizes health promotion and gerontological assessment
  • BSN to MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 4-Semester program
    • 40 total credit hours
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • Synchronous and asynchronous options
    • 600 clinical hours
    • Distance-friendly format minimizes trips
    • Prepares for FNP-BC certification
    • Clinical courses based on enrollment
  • BSN to MSN - Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 46 credit hours required.
    • 720 clinical hours needed.
    • Four semesters completion time.
    • Hybrid program format.
    • Full-time or part-time options.
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required.
    • BSN and RN license prerequisites.
    • Advanced pathophysiology course.
  • BSN to MSN - Family Systems Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Master of Science in Nursing degree
    • Family Systems Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration
    • Hybrid delivery format
    • Distance-friendly core coursework
    • Web-based major-specific courses
    • Four consecutive semesters full-time
    • Three years part-time option
    • 46-49 total credit hours
  • BSN to MSN - Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, MSN

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 40 credit hours total
    • 700 clinical hours required
    • 18-month full-time program
    • Two years NICU experience prerequisite
    • Focus on neonatal intensive care
  • BSN to MSN - Nurse Midwifery

    Campus Based - Website

    • 49 credit hours required.
    • Over 600 clinical hours.
    • Full-time or part-time options.
    • Campus-based program.
    • Eligible for dual certification.
    • Prepares for CNM certification.
    • Includes advanced pharmacology course.
    • Includes advanced pathophysiology course.
  • BSN to MSN - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in Acute Care

    Concentration: Acute Care - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Acute Care concentration.
    • Hybrid program type.
    • 45 credit hours required.
    • Over 600 clinical hours.
    • One year pediatric experience needed.
    • Eligible for certification exam.
    • Includes advanced pathophysiology.
    • Includes advanced pharmacology.
  • BSN to MSN - Women's Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 38 credit hours required.
    • About 600 clinical hours.
    • Full-time completion in 12 months.
    • Hybrid online and on-campus format.
    • Core courses offered intensively.
    • Focus on women's health care.
    • Includes gynecologic and reproductive health.
    • Advanced physical assessment course.
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 3 concentration options
    • Cohort-based structure
    • First practice doctorate in nursing
    • Highest level of clinical nursing preparation
    • Careers: administration, teaching, health policy
    • Network with national colleagues
    • Flexible for distance education students
    • Hospital and academic partnerships

Cleveland State University

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing - Forensic Nursing

    Online Learning - Website

    • CCNE accredited
    • $24,195 total program tuition
    • $637 per credit
    • 2-Year program
    • Complete in two years part-time
    • 38 total credit hours
    • Part-time available
    • Starts fall
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing – Clinical Nurse Leader

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online program.
    • No campus visits required.
    • Part-time completion in 1 year 7 months.
    • 32 credit hours total.
    • 500 practicum hours included.
    • Clinical placement services provided.
    • Fall intake available.
    • In-state tuition $636.70 per credit.
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 47 credit hours
    • 780 clinical hours
    • Two year full-time program
    • 100% online coursework
    • One campus residency
    • Clinical placement support
    • Three intakes per year
    • $636.70 per credit in-state
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing – Nursing Education

    Online Learning - Website

    • CCNE accredited
    • No entrance exam required
    • $637 per credit
    • 2-Year program
    • Complete in part-time in two years
    • 38 total credit hours
    • Apply by 2026-09-01
    • Part-time enrollment
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online coursework.
    • Two-year full-time program.
    • 780 clinical hours required.
    • Clinical placement support provided.
    • 48 credit hours total.
    • Three intakes per year.
    • In-state tuition $636.70 per credit.
    • Out-of-state tuition $637.70 per credit.
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available
    • Emphasis on clinical practice and leadership
    • Post-masters entry pathway
    • Mandatory $150 program fee
    • Graduate assistantship positions available
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

    • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
    • Financial aid available
    • Emphasis on clinical practice and leadership
    • Post-masters entry pathway
    • Health Systems Leadership track available
  • MSN to DNP - Post Baccalaureate to DNP: Psychiatric/Mental Health

    Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 11-Semester program
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • 3.3 GPA minimum
    • 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
    • Work experience required
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Blended online and in-person formats
    • Doctorally prepared faculty
  • MSN to DNP - Post Masters to DNP: Health Systems Nursing Leadership

    Concentration: Health Systems Leadership - Online Learning - Website

    • 6-Semester program
    • Apply by 2026-04-15
    • Rolling admissions
    • Part-time available
    • Starts fall
    • 3.3 GPA minimum
    • 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
    • Work experience required

Kent, OH

Kent State University

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

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CCNE accredited
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • Starts fall/spring
    • Faculty mentorship from nationally certified APRNs
    • Clinical experiences in diverse settings
    • Three-time NLN Center of Excellence
    • Many online courses available
  • BSN to MSN - MSN/MBA Dual Degree

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online program.
    • Cost: $536 per credit hour.
    • Requires GMAT or GRE.
    • 300 practicum hours included.
    • Start in fall or spring.
    • Full or part-time options.
    • For experienced nurses.
    • Prepares for leadership roles.
  • BSN to MSN - Nursing Administration & Health Systems Leadership

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online program.
    • Prepares for management roles.
    • CCNE accredited.
    • Fall and spring starts.
    • Full- and part-time options.
    • Practicum with healthcare leaders.
    • Focus on healthcare policy.
    • Mentoring from faculty.
  • BSN to MSN - Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CCNE accredited
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • 2 start dates per year
    • Starts fall/spring
    • Faculty mentorship and advising
    • Many online courses
    • Intellectual rigor and quality
  • BSN to MSN - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • MSN concentration program.
    • 100% online delivery.
    • No campus visits required.
    • Fall and spring starts.
    • Full-time and part-time options.
    • Faculty mentorship available.
    • Nationally certified instructors.
    • CCNE accredited program.
  • BSN to MSN - Women's Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • MSN concentration program
    • 100% online coursework
    • CCNE accredited
    • Expert faculty mentorship
    • Clinical practicum required
    • APRN certification eligible
    • Ohio licensure qualification
    • Flexible learning path
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Executive Nurse - Online Learning - Website

    • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
    • 3 concentration options
    • 5-Semester program
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • 3 start dates per year
    • Starts spring/summer/fall
    • 3.0 GPA minimum
    • 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
*Based on: IPEDS 2025, U.S. Department of Education. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Comprehensive List of Nursing Schools Near Cleveland, OH

Exploring nursing schools near Cleveland, OH? This comprehensive list highlights top options in the area. The table below details each school's city and state, program highlights, and links to their official program pages. Use these resources to compare curricula, specializations, and other key factors. Find the nursing program that best aligns with your goals and begin your educational journey. Whether starting out or advancing your career, these schools offer a range of pathways to success.
Jump to City:

Berea, OH

Baldwin Wallace University

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
    • No entrance exam required
    • $44,348 total program tuition
    • 15-Month program
    • 63 total credit hours
    • Apply by 2026-05-30
    • Rolling admissions
    • Full-time enrollment
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Traditional BSN track offered
    • Accelerated BSN track offered
    • Director of Clinical Education
    • DNP-prepared faculty
    • MSN-prepared faculty

Burton, OH

Kent State University at Geauga

  • Associate - Nursing ADN Program

    Concentration: LPN to ADN, Paramedic to ADN - Campus Based - Website

    • Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), Ohio Board of Nursing accredited
    • 3 concentration options
    • Starts fall/spring
    • Prepares for National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN)
    • LPN to ADN and Paramedic to ADN pathways
    • Campus-based program at Kent State Geauga
    • Teaches patient-centered care and communication
    • Leadership and technology skills emphasized
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • CCNE accredited
    • 4-Year program
    • Prepares for National Certification and Licensure Exam
    • Multiple campus locations: Geauga, Trumbull, Kent, Salem, Stark
    • Evidence-based, culturally sensitive care focus
    • Prepares for graduate nursing study
    • RN to BSN online pathway available

Cleveland, OH

Case Western Reserve University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

    Campus Based - Website

    • Direct Admission to undergraduate program
    • No second application required
    • No pre-nursing requirements
    • Nursing courses start first semester
    • Clinical placements begin first semester
    • Over 1000 clinical hours
    • Interprofessional teamwork with healthcare students
    • State-of-the-art simulation center

Cleveland State University

  • Bachelor's - Traditional BSN Programs

    Campus Based - Website

    • 2 concentration options
    • 3-Year program
    • 2 start dates per year
    • Starts fall/spring
    • Cohort-based structure
    • 2.5 GPA minimum
    • 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
    • Prerequisite courses required

Cuyahoga Community College District

  • Associate - Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 2-Year program
    • Complete in two-year nursing program
    • Rolling admissions
    • 2 start dates per year
    • Starts fall/spring
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • Pathway from STNA to LPN to RN
  • Associate - Nursing LPN to ADN Access Track

    Concentration: LPN to RN - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 4-Semester program
    • Starts spring
    • Evening lectures and labs
    • Clinicals at acute care settings
    • Modified Evening/Weekend program
    • Spring semester start
    • Current LPN license required
  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN Nursing Continuum

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online BSN program
    • 27 total nursing credits
    • Three consecutive semesters
    • Lower CSU tuition rate
    • Scholarship opportunities available
    • Supports career advancement
    • Meets industry BSN requirements

Cuyahoga Falls, OH

Fortis College-Cuyahoga Falls

  • Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • Financial aid available
    • Hybrid program with on campus and online courses
    • Entry path for licensed practical nurses
    • Career services for graduates
    • Institutionally accredited by ABHES, ACCSC, ACICS
    • Partnership with Denver College of Nursing for RN to BSN
    • LPNs may receive academic credit

Elyria, OH

Lorain County Community College

  • Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Prepares for NCLEX
    • Careers in hospitals and clinics
    • Associate of Applied Science degree
    • Patient advocacy and health education
    • Work under physicians and specialists
  • Associate - Licensed Practical Nurse to Registered Nurse (LPN to RN)

    Campus Based - Website

    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: TEAS
    • 56 total credit hours
    • Starts fall/spring
    • 2.5 GPA minimum
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Capstone required
    • Prepares for NCLEX

Hiram, OH

Hiram College

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
    • 4-Year program
    • Locked tuition rate
    • 128 total credit hours
    • 100% licensure pass rate
    • Prepares for NCLEX
    • Clinical sites across Northeast Ohio
    • Tuition guarantee for four years

Kent, OH

Kent State University

  • Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing

    Concentration: LPN to ADN - Campus Based - Website

    • ACEN, Ohio Board of Nursing accredited
    • 3 concentration options
    • Apply by 2026-09-30
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • Completer program for licensed practical nurses
    • Eligible for NCLEX-RN licensure exam
    • Campus-based at East Liverpool
    • Prepare for registered nurse profession
  • Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Paramedic to ADN - Campus Based - Website

    • ACEN, Ohio Board of Nursing accredited
    • 3 concentration options
    • Apply by 2026-09-30
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • NCLEX-RN exam preparation
    • Traditional, LPN, and Paramedic tracks
    • Completer program for certified paramedics
    • Clinical experiences in hospitals and communities
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
    • 4 concentration options
    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: SAT, ACT
    • 4-Year program
    • 120 total credit hours
    • Starts fall/spring
    • 92% licensure pass rate
*IPEDS 2025 survey data, provided by NCES, U.S. Department of Education.