2026 Best Nursing Schools in Memphis

Choosing the right nursing program is crucial for future success, and rankings can help students identify top-performing schools. Registerednursing.org is creating the "Best Nursing Schools in Memphis" rankings based solely on NCLEX pass rates, providing an objective measure of program effectiveness. For more details on how these rankings are compiled, visit https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/.

Yearly Pass Rate Trends

No statistically significant data is available for yearly pass rate trends in Memphis. This analysis requires multiple years of pass rate and student count data to identify meaningful patterns.

Top Performing Schools

No statistically significant data is available for top performing schools in Memphis. This analysis requires schools with at least 20 total students in the dataset to calculate reliable average pass rates.

Consistently High Performing Schools

No statistically significant data is available for consistently high performing schools in Memphis. This analysis requires schools with two or more years of data and average pass rates above 90% to identify consistent excellence.

#1

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center

Memphis, TN - Public 4-Year - uthsc.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program offers two distinct pathways: a 12-month Accelerated BSN for students with existing bachelor's degrees and a Traditional BSN spanning four semesters. This concept-based curriculum prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam, with a 98.8% first-time pass rate in 2024. The program emphasizes clinical reasoning, evidence-based care, and interprofessional practice. As a bachelor's level program, it requires ACT or SAT entrance exams. Accredited by CCNE, it provides comprehensive training in advocacy, population health strategies, and leadership principles within a dynamic health science center setting.

  • 12-month Accelerated BSN option.
  • Traditional BSN spans four semesters.
  • 98.8% NCLEX first-time pass rate.
  • Concept-based curriculum.
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN.
  • Two distinct pathways available.
  • High employment growth expected.
  • Accredited by CCNE.
  • Dynamic health science center setting.
  • Early admission benefits.
#2

Baptist Health Sciences University

Memphis, TN - Private 4-year - baptistu.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Baptist Health Sciences University offers a campus-based Bachelor of Science in Nursing program that integrates classroom instruction with clinical simulations. This four-year BSN program provides direct admission to nursing upon university acceptance and does not require ACT or SAT entrance exams. With NCLEX pass rates improving from 82% in 2022 to 97% in 2024, graduates demonstrate strong exam readiness. The curriculum emphasizes diverse healthcare settings through personal faculty instruction and connection to the Baptist Memorial Health Care system, resulting in excellent job placement outcomes for nursing leadership roles.

  • Four-year BSN program.
  • High NCLEX-RN pass rates.
  • Strong job placement for graduates.
  • Personal instruction from faculty.
  • Combines classroom and clinical learning.
  • Admission to university equals nursing program acceptance.
  • Focus on diverse healthcare settings.
  • Campus-based learning environment.
  • Prepares for leadership in nursing.
  • Integration with Baptist Memorial Health Care system.
#3

University of Memphis

Memphis, TN - Public 4-Year - memphis.edu

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

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Memphis offers a campus-based Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam and professional nursing careers. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA in prerequisite courses with a strong science foundation, and applicants must submit ACT or SAT scores. The program emphasizes hands-on clinical experience across diverse healthcare settings, covering essential topics like pathophysiology and pharmacology. NCLEX pass rates have shown improvement, reaching 88% in 2024 from 73% in 2022, indicating effective exam preparation. This pre-licensure program admits students in both Fall and Spring semesters, focusing on comprehensive nursing education and professional development.

  • Pre-licensure BSN program
  • Campus-based learning
  • 3.0 GPA requirement
  • NCLEX-RN exam preparation
  • Comprehensive nursing curriculum
  • Hands-on clinical experience
  • Focus on professional development
  • Diverse healthcare settings
  • Strong science foundation needed
  • Admission in Fall and Spring
#4

Southwest Tennessee Community College

Memphis, TN - Public 2-Year - southwest.tn.edu

Associate - Nursing, A.A.S.

Campus Based - Visit Website

Southwest Tennessee Community College's Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (A.A.S.) program is a four-semester, campus-based curriculum that prepares students for immediate entry into nursing practice. This 67-credit program covers fundamentals, medical-surgical nursing, mental health, pediatrics, and women's health, emphasizing hands-on clinical experience. Admission requires completion of general education prerequisites, but no ACT or SAT exam is needed for this associate-level program. The program has demonstrated strong NCLEX-RN preparation, with pass rates improving from 67% in 2022 to 86% in 2024 among 65-89 test-takers annually. Graduates are equipped to deliver safe, quality care to diverse populations and pursue RN licensure.

  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
  • Four-semester program
  • Covers diverse nursing fields
  • Includes hands-on experience
  • Requires general education courses
  • Focus on professional practice
  • Designed for immediate employment
  • Campus-based learning
  • Total of 67 credits
  • Terminal degree for career field
#5

Concorde Career College-Memphis

Memphis, TN - Private 2-year - concorde.edu

Bachelor's - RN to BSN

Online Learning - Visit Website

Concorde Career College-Memphis offers a fully online RN to BSN program designed for working registered nurses seeking career advancement. This bachelor's-level program requires no entrance exams like ACT or SAT and can be completed in 17-41 months with flexible course loads. It leverages existing RN experience with no additional clinical requirements, focusing on developing leadership skills for advanced roles. The program's ADN track shows varied NCLEX pass rates: 94% in 2023 (16 students) and 63% in 2024 (40 students), indicating recent performance fluctuations.

  • Fully online RN to BSN
  • 17-41 months completion time
  • Flexible course load options
  • Block transfer credits available
  • No additional clinical requirements
  • Designed for working RNs
  • Prepares for advanced nursing roles
*U.S. Department of Education, NCES, IPEDS 2024 data files.

Entry Level ADN & BSN Programs in Memphis, TN

Memphis and its surrounding areas are home to a multitude of entry-level nursing programs. Whether your goal is to earn an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN), there are programs available that do not require a prior nursing degree or license.

LPN to RN Programs

Licensed practical nurses in Memphis who want to build upon their patient care skills and earn higher salaries as registered nurses can pursue LPN to RN bridge programs that will prepare them for the NCLEX-RN exam and award them with associate’s degrees in nursing. The LPN Mobility Track at Southwest Tennessee Community College awards experienced LPNs with seven-course credits for previous practical nursing coursework, allowing LPN students to finish in less time than those without prior nursing experience.

ADN Programs

The Associate's Degree in Nursing pathway is the quickest route to becoming an RN. These 2-year programs offer a basic RN education and are widely available and technical schools and community colleges. Southwest Tennessee Community College, for instance, offers a 65-credit associate's degree program where students take courses such as Dosages & Solutions, Nursing of Children, and Mental Health Nursing.

Direct-Entry BSN Programs

The classic bachelor's degree in nursing has been steadily increasing in popularity in recent years. This is due in part to many hospitals and medical care facilities starting to require this 4-year degree for nursing roles. The Baptist College of Health Sciences offers a pre-licensure BSN program that consists of 122 credit hours and includes classes in Pharmacology, Senior Nursing, and more.

Find out more about Tennessee Accelerated BSN Programs.

RN to BSN/MSN Programs in Memphis, TN

Bridge programs, such as the RN to BSN and RN to MSN pathways, help current RNs continue their education. These programs are popular because they allow nurses to build upon the knowledge they've already acquired, making them much shorter in length.

RN to BSN Programs

The RN to BSN pathway allows ADN or diploma-educated RNs to earn a bachelor's degree in under 2 years of study. Online classes are often available, along with part-time attendance options, making it easy for RNs to continue working while furthering their education. The University of Tennessee Health Science Center offers an RN to BSN program that can be completed in 12 months of full-time study or 17 months of part-time study.

Find out more about Tennessee RN to BSN Programs.

RN to MSN Programs

Nurses who want to advance even more can opt for the RN to MSN bridge pathway. Depending on the program, students may be awarded both a BSN and MSN degree, or just an MSN degree. Most programs allow students to specialize in a nursing area such as Family Nurse Practitioner or Nurse Educator. The University of Memphis offers an RN to MSN program for RNs who hold a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing topic. This program culminates in only the MSN degree.

Find out more about Tennessee RN to MSN Programs.

List of RN to BSN/MSN Programs

If you're a registered nurse looking to advance your career, RN to BSN or MSN programs offer flexible pathways to earn your bachelor's or master's degree. These programs build on your existing experience, often with online or part-time options to fit your schedule. Below, you'll find a table of schools with their locations, program highlights, and links to learn more. This can help you compare options and find the right fit for your goals.

Memphis, TN

Christian Brothers University

  • RN to BSN - RN to BSN

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format.
    • Complete in three semesters.
    • Focus on leadership roles.
    • Includes global health opportunities.
    • Accredited by CCNE.
    • 122 credit hours required.
    • Online coursework available.
    • Community engaged learning.
*IPEDS 2024 statistics, sourced from NCES. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

APRN & Nurse Practitioner Programs in Memphis, TN

Advanced nursing programs allow RNs to enter into the most prestigious nurse practitioner roles. Options for advanced degrees include the traditional MSN degree, the post-graduate certificate program, and even doctoral degrees such as the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Nursing.

MSN Programs

The traditional master's degree in nursing is designed to be completed following a BSN degree and takes around 2 years to finish. Students are generally able to choose between many nurse practitioner specialties as well as other advanced roles, such as Nurse Educator and Nurse Administrator. The University of Memphis offers an MSN program that varies in length depending on specialty. It also boasts a 75% graduation rate and a 100% employment rate as of 2016.

Find out more about Tennessee Nurse Practitioner Programs and Tennessee DEMSN Programs.

Post-Graduate Certificate Programs

Some RNs who have already earned an MSN degree choose to complete a post-graduate nursing certificate program in order to change to a specific area of nursing. For instance, a nurse with an MSN as a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner may wish to become a Family Nurse Practitioner. Instead of completing a lengthy and expensive additional degree, the nurse is able to complete a certificate program. The University of Tennessee Health Science Center offers an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner post master's certificate program that consists of just 23 credits and can be completed in one year.

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

DNP & Ph.D. Programs

The most advanced nursing programs available are doctoral programs. Students can select the DNP degree, which is geared toward high-level clinical practice, or a Ph.D. degree, intended for those going into academia or research. The University of Tennessee Health Science Center offers both options, including DNP programs in multiple concentrations, a traditional Ph.D. in Nursing program, and even a dual DNP/Ph.D. program.

Find out more about Dual DNP/PhD Programs and Tennessee DNP Programs.

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

Memphis offers several APRN programs for nurses seeking advanced practice roles. These include Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and Nurse Practitioner (NP) options. The table below lists schools in Memphis, Tennessee, with program highlights and links to their program pages. We provide details on each school's location and key features to help you find the right fit for your career goals.

Memphis, TN

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center

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

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Comprehensive 59-credit DNP program
    • Minimum 500 clinical hours
    • Hybrid learning format
    • Advanced clinical assessment skills
    • Nationally accredited program
    • Multiple entry pathways
    • Specialized acute care focus
    • Full-time and part-time options
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice Nurse-Midwifery

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 66 total program credits
    • 1,200 clinical training hours
    • Hybrid learning format
    • Hospital and birth center experiences
    • National certification preparation
    • Family-centered care focus
    • Pre-accredited by ACME
    • Post-BSN and Post-MSN options
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Nationally ranked DNP program
    • Multiple specialty concentrations
    • Hybrid learning format
    • Flexible full/part-time options
    • Comprehensive clinical placements
    • Accredited by CCNE
    • Largest producer of doctoral nurses in Tennessee
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Nurse Midwifery - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 1200 total clinical hours
    • Hybrid learning format
    • Certification exam preparation
    • Family-centered care focus
    • Advanced practice curriculum
    • 66 total program credits
    • Pre-accredited by ACME
    • Multiple entry pathways
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

    • Hybrid DNP program format
    • 1080 total clinical hours
    • Certification exam preparation
    • Lifespan mental health focus
    • Advanced psychotherapy training
    • Multiple clinical placement options
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • Minimum 500 supervised hours
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Nurse Executive - Online Learning - Website

    • Online DNP Nurse Executive program
    • 63 total credit hours
    • 1020 total practicum hours
    • Multiple entry pathways
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Prepares for executive healthcare roles
    • Full and part-time options
    • No campus attendance required
  • MSN to DNP - Dual Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care/Family Nurse Practitioner

    Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Dual NP Certification Possible
    • Hybrid Learning Format
    • 73 Total Credit Hours
    • CCNE Accredited Program
    • DNP Project Required
    • Advanced Clinical Practicums
    • Comprehensive Core Coursework
    • Multiple Clinical Assessment Courses
  • MSN to DNP - Dual Concentration: Psychiatric-Mental Health/Family Nurse Practitioner

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Dual certification preparation
    • 73 total program credits
    • Hybrid program format
    • Advanced clinical practicums
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Comprehensive mental health training
    • Doctoral-level healthcare policy courses
  • MSN to DNP - Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • DNP with FNP concentration
    • 1,140 total clinical hours
    • Hybrid program format
    • Post-BSN and Post-MSN tracks
    • On-campus intensives 3x yearly
    • Advanced clinical skills training
    • National certification preparation
    • Multiple practice setting options
  • MSN to DNP - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program delivery
    • 1080 total clinical hours
    • Across lifespan patient care
    • National certification eligible
    • Minimum 500 clinical hours
    • 61 total post-BSN credits
    • Advanced psychotherapy training
    • Comprehensive mental health focus

University of Memphis

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Adult Gerontology-Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 44-credit hour program
    • Hybrid online/campus format
    • Adult Gerontology Acute Care concentration
    • Requires 2 years ICU/ER experience
    • 3.0 minimum GPA required
    • RN license in Tennessee needed
    • Up to three on-campus intensives
    • Core MSN courses: 12 credits
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Nursing Education - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 31-credit hour nursing education program
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • Advanced teaching methodology focus
    • Curriculum design courses included
    • Nurse Educator Immersion experiences
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
    • Licensure in Tennessee required
    • Undergraduate statistics prerequisite
*IPEDS 2024 survey data, provided by NCES, U.S. Department of Education.

Comprehensive List of Nursing Schools Near Memphis, TN

If you want to become a nurse near Memphis, Tennessee, you have many good options. This list shows nursing schools in the area. It includes their city and state, program highlights, and links to learn more. You can find details about each school's offerings to help you choose the right path for your nursing career. Explore the table below to start your search.

Memphis, TN

Baptist Health Sciences University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Four-year BSN program.
    • High NCLEX-RN pass rates.
    • Strong job placement for graduates.
    • Personal instruction from faculty.
    • Combines classroom and clinical learning.
    • Admission to university equals nursing program acceptance.
    • Focus on diverse healthcare settings.
    • Campus-based learning environment.

Christian Brothers University

  • Bachelor's - Traditional BSN Nursing Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • 120 Credit Hours
    • 67 Nursing Hours
    • 792 Clinical Hours
    • Accredited by CCNE
    • Service-learning focus
    • Clinicals in Memphis
    • Study abroad options
    • Pre-Nursing Plan

Concorde Career College-Memphis

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online RN to BSN
    • 17-41 months completion time
    • Flexible course load options
    • Block transfer credits available
    • No additional clinical requirements
    • Designed for working RNs
    • Prepares for advanced nursing roles

Southwest Tennessee Community College

  • Associate - Nursing, A.A.S.

    Campus Based - Website

    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
    • Four-semester program
    • Covers diverse nursing fields
    • Includes hands-on experience
    • Requires general education courses
    • Focus on professional practice
    • Designed for immediate employment
    • Campus-based learning

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 12-month Accelerated BSN option.
    • Traditional BSN spans four semesters.
    • 98.8% NCLEX first-time pass rate.
    • Concept-based curriculum.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN.
    • Two distinct pathways available.
    • High employment growth expected.
    • Accredited by CCNE.

University of Memphis

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

    Campus Based - Website

    • Pre-licensure BSN program
    • Campus-based learning
    • 3.0 GPA requirement
    • NCLEX-RN exam preparation
    • Comprehensive nursing curriculum
    • Hands-on clinical experience
    • Focus on professional development
    • Diverse healthcare settings
*Source documentation: IPEDS 2024 Technical Review Panel report, NCES.