2026 Best Nursing Schools in New Orleans

#1

Delgado Community College

New Orleans, LA - Public 2-Year - dcc.edu

Associate - Associate Degree Track (AD-RN)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Delgado Community College's Associate Degree Track in Registered Nursing prepares students for a high-demand career in healthcare. The program blends science with compassionate care, offering clinical experiences across New Orleans. Graduates emerge as confident, professional nurses ready for various healthcare settings. Admission requires a high school diploma, specific coursework, a 2.5 GPA, and passing the Kaplan pre-nursing exam. The curriculum spans five semesters, covering nursing, pharmacology, and special populations, alongside essential sciences and humanities.

  • Five-semester program
  • Campus-based learning
  • Clinical experience in New Orleans
  • 2.5 GPA requirement
  • Kaplan pre-nursing exam
  • Holistic healthcare focus
  • Leadership skills development
  • Ethical responsibility training
  • Effective communication skills
  • Information technology in clinical decisions
#2

Dillard University

New Orleans, LA - Private 4-year - dillard.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Dillard University in New Orleans, LA, offers a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing (BSN) through its College of Nursing. This program is designed for aspiring nurses, providing a comprehensive curriculum that blends general education with specialized nursing courses. Students can choose from various pathways, including traditional BSN, LPN to BSN, and RN to BSN, all tailored to meet the evolving demands of the healthcare industry. The program emphasizes critical thinking, leadership, and ethical practices in nursing. With state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to student success, Dillard University prepares graduates for rewarding careers in nursing. Financial aid and scholarships are available to eligible students.

  • Hybrid program options.
  • 120 credit hours for graduation.
  • State-of-the-art nursing labs.
  • Flexible pathways for LPN and RN.
  • Accredited by ACEN and LSBN.
  • Service learning opportunities.
  • Dedicated nursing advisors.
  • Community service projects.
  • Cutting-edge simulation labs.
  • Financial aid available.

Bachelor's - LPN to BSN

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Dillard University in New Orleans, LA, offers an LPN to BSN hybrid program designed for licensed practical nurses aiming to advance their careers with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This program blends online and on-campus learning, providing flexibility for working professionals. Students complete 120 credit hours, including general education, nursing core, and cognates, with opportunities to transfer credits. The curriculum emphasizes service learning and community engagement, preparing graduates for diverse nursing roles. Admission requires an unencumbered LPN license in Louisiana. Dillard's College of Nursing features state-of-the-art facilities, including simulation labs, enhancing hands-on learning experiences.

  • Hybrid LPN to BSN program.
  • 120 credit hours total.
  • Flexible online and on-campus.
  • Transfer credit opportunities.
  • State-of-the-art simulation labs.
  • Service learning integrated.
  • Unencumbered LPN license required.
  • Prepares for diverse nursing roles.
  • Located in New Orleans, LA.
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#3

Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center-New Orleans

New Orleans, LA - Public 4-Year - lsuhsc.edu

Bachelor's - Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center-New Orleans prepares students for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam and a professional nursing career. This three-year program, admitting students in both fall and spring, is highly competitive. Applicants can complete pre-nursing courses at any accredited college or university before applying. The program emphasizes a comprehensive curriculum to equip students with the necessary skills for a successful nursing career. For more details on admissions and curriculum, prospective students are encouraged to explore the program further.

  • Three-year program duration
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
  • Competitive admission process
  • Fall and spring admissions
  • Pre-nursing courses required
  • Comprehensive nursing curriculum
  • On-campus program
  • Limited class size
  • Professional nursing career focus
  • Pre-nursing courses transferable

Bachelor's - Career Alternative RN Education (CARE)

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Career Alternative RN Education (CARE) program at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center-New Orleans is a Bachelor of Science in Nursing designed for individuals with a bachelor's degree in any field. This two-year program prepares students for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam and a professional nursing career. Offered on the New Orleans campus and at an off-campus site in Shreveport, the program admits students in the fall for New Orleans and both fall and spring for Shreveport. Admission is competitive, focusing on transforming diverse academic backgrounds into nursing expertise.

  • Two-year program
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • For degree holders
  • Competitive admission
  • New Orleans and Shreveport sites
  • Fall admission in New Orleans
  • Fall and spring in Shreveport
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing
  • Professional nursing career prep
  • Limited class size
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#4

Southern University at New Orleans

New Orleans, LA - Public 4-Year - suno.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at Southern University at New Orleans is designed to prepare underrepresented minority nurses for providing safe, competent, and culturally appropriate care. It aims to empower students through education, offering opportunities to overcome poverty and increase social mobility. The program requires a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7, completion of 31 credit hours of pre-nursing courses with a 'C' or better, and no more than two repeats in any general education course. Applicants must pass a criminal background check and attend an interview. The program is campus-based and not a bridge for LPNs or Associate Degree RNs.

  • Campus-based program
  • Minimum 2.7 GPA required
  • 31 credit hours pre-nursing
  • No more than two repeats
  • Criminal background check
  • Interview required
  • Not a bridge program
  • Focus on minority nurses
  • Empowers through education
  • Increases social mobility
#5

Tulane University of Louisiana

New Orleans, LA - Private 4-year - tulane.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Tulane University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is designed for those passionate about making a difference in healthcare. This hybrid program combines online coursework with in-person clinical experiences, offering flexibility for students at any career stage. With a focus on critical thinking and clinical judgment, the program prepares students to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and excel in various nursing specialties. The accelerated format allows completion in just 16 months after prerequisites, making it an efficient path to becoming a Registered Nurse. Admission requires meeting specific criteria, ensuring a cohort of dedicated and capable students. Tulane's BSN opens doors to diverse nursing careers and advanced education opportunities.

  • Hybrid learning format
  • Accelerated 16-month program
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
  • 60-credit curriculum
  • Combines online and in-person learning
  • Focus on critical thinking skills
  • Clinical judgment training
  • Diverse nursing career paths
  • Advanced education opportunities
  • Meets needs of various learners

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

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Tulane University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) with a concentration in Pediatric Nursing offers a hybrid learning experience, combining online coursework with in-person clinical rotations. This 60-credit program is designed for completion in just 16 months, catering to both aspiring nurses and professionals seeking a career shift. The curriculum prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam, focusing on critical thinking and clinical judgment. Admission requires meeting specific prerequisites, with the program emphasizing flexibility and excellence. Pediatric Nursing students gain specialized skills to care for young patients, opening doors to diverse healthcare settings. Tulane's program stands out for its accelerated format, comprehensive training, and focus on immediate employability.

  • 60-credit program
  • 16 months completion
  • Hybrid learning format
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Pediatric Nursing concentration
  • Combines online and in-person
  • Focus on critical thinking
  • Clinical judgment training
  • Meets diverse learner needs
  • Accelerated format

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Maternal Newborn Nursing)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Tulane University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program offers a specialized concentration in Maternal Newborn Nursing, blending online coursework with in-person clinical experiences. This hybrid program is designed for aspiring nurses seeking a comprehensive education in maternal and newborn care. Over 16 months, students engage in a 60-credit curriculum that prepares them for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program emphasizes critical thinking and clinical judgment, essential for high-quality patient care. Admission requires completion of prerequisites, targeting individuals passionate about nursing and maternal health. This program stands out for its accelerated format, combining flexibility with rigorous training for immediate impact in healthcare settings.

  • 16-month accelerated program.
  • 60-credit hybrid curriculum.
  • Specializes in Maternal Newborn Nursing.
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN licensure.
  • Combines online and in-person learning.
  • Focus on critical thinking skills.
  • Clinical judgment development.
  • Requires completion of prerequisites.
  • Targets aspiring maternal health nurses.
  • Rigorous training for immediate impact.
Show 2 More Programs ˅
*Based on data from: IPEDS 2024, provided by the National Center for Education Statistics.

Entry-Level ADN & BSN Programs in New Orleans, LA

Whether you like to jump in to the deep end of the pool or touch the shallow end with your toe, students interested in becoming working nurses will find a variety of entry-level nursing programs available to them to fit their comfort zones. From two-year Associate Degree in Nursing options to bachelor’s degree in nursing offerings, nurses in the New Orleans, Louisiana area can start their programs at their own pace.

LPN to RN Programs

Licensed Practical Nurses are often the ones who interact with patients the most. They talk to them about the health problems they’re having and relay this information to senior nurse. LPNs, however, can do more and earn more when they get their Registered Nurse (RN) credential. With many learning centers across New Orleans, Louisiana, Delgado Community College offers an LPN to RN option. The transition program offers four different avenues for LPNs to advance their careers, including a traditional and a credit examination option.

ADN Programs

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) education paths generally require two years of study and are offered at junior or community colleges. With a focus on fundamentals, ADN programs teach students what they need to know to enter the ever-changing field of nursing. Delgado Community College in New Orleans, LA offers the complete package for students entering their ADN program. Whether students are current LPNs or just starting out, the college provides them with both career and educational paths to complete their goals. Graduates of the accredited program are prepared to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for RNs.

Direct-Entry BSN Programs

Established Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs can ensure that students gain a strong foundation of nursing fundamentals in theory and practice. University of Holy Cross, a Catholic institute, offers a well-respected BSN program at its New Orleans, LA campus. In addition to teaching students nursing essentials, the program gives students a solid liberal arts background. It incorporates technology learnings so students are prepared to enter the modern healthcare workplace.

Find out more about Louisiana Accelerated BSN Programs

RN to BSN/MSN Programs in New Orleans, LA

Created to skip the hassles of going back to college to earn your degree, bridge programs allow registered nurses to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing or Master of Science in Nursing at an accelerated rate. Focusing on coursework essentials, clinical experiences, and making the most of previously earned credit hours, these transitional education programs make it inviting for working nurses to go back to school and complete their degrees.

RN to BSN Programs

Working registered nurses can raise their career capabilities a peg when they complete their Bachelor of Science in Nursing education. In addition to taking on higher level job duties and providing more services to patients, nurses with a BSN can negotiate a higher wage and have greater job security. Upper Iowa University, which has a Learning Center in New Orleans, Louisiana, offers expediency focused RN to BSN program in an online and on-ground mixed format. It teaches students theoretical understanding, evidence-based clinical practice, as well as current healthcare technologies so students can apply their education to their jobs right away.

Find out more about Louisiana RN to BSN Programs

RN to MSN Programs

ADN-educated nurses looking to enter more advanced practice roles, such as the nurse practitioner role, may be interested in an RN to MSN bridge program. These programs may culminate in both a BSN and MSN degree, or an MSN degree only. Loyola University New Orleans offers an RN to MSN pathway designed for those with an ADN or nursing diploma and a non-nursing bachelor's degree.

Find out more about Louisiana RN to MSN Programs

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New Orleans, LA

Dillard University

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

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 120 total credit hours
    • Hybrid learning format
    • Transfer up to 57 credits
    • Service learning opportunities
    • State-of-the-art nursing facilities
    • Oldest LA nursing program
    • Fully accredited program
    • Multiple nursing pathways

Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center-New Orleans

  • RN to BSN - RN to BSN

    Campus Based - Website

    • One-year completion time
    • Designed for RNs with associate degree
    • Unencumbered nursing license required
    • Admits fall and spring semesters
    • Builds on existing nursing competencies
*Based on: NCES IPEDS 2024 data collection. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

APRN & Nurse Practitioner Programs in New Orleans, LA

In hospitals and medical facilities, Registered Nurses are stepping up and performing higher level roles in patient care. For instance, Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) are now developing long term treatment plans for patients with chronic conditions. Universities across the New Orleans, LA area are adding more APRN programs to train nurses quickly and improve patient care at the city and state level.

MSN Programs

Master's of Science in Nursing curriculums educate nurses on fundamentals, advanced theory, specializations and more. Typically offered in online, on-campus and hybrid formats, MSN programs can be a full or part-time undertaking. Most are designed to be completed during flexible timeframes so nurses can continue working while elevating their careers. LSU Health New Orleans, offers a deliberate, speed-focused program where the theoretical and clinical learnings are taught at the same time. This allows rapid absorption of learning for time-strapped students.

Find out more about Louisiana Nurse Practitioner Programs

Post-Master's Certificate Programs

For many experienced nurses, entering an area of specialization can enable them to achieve the peak of their profession. Advanced nursing professionals in the New Orleans, LA area can earn their post-graduate certification in a blend of online and clinical settings. For working nurses, this means they don’t have to take time off from their everyday jobs to earn a cert.

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

DNP & Ph.D. Programs

Earning a terminal degree in nursing is a considerable undertaking for nurses who wish to attain the pinnacle of their profession. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs teach students to become leaders in the larger healthcare field. Loyola University New Orleans, offers DNP options, including Family Nurse Practitioner and Executive Leadership tracks in an online format. These offerings allow nurses to become leaders at the current hospital or place of work in less time.

Find out more about New Orleans DNP Programs

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New Orleans, LA

Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center-New Orleans

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Clinical Nurse Leader - Campus Based - Website

    • Full-time completion in five semesters.
    • Focus on quality improvement and care coordination.
    • Emphasizes evidence-based practice.
    • Prepares for master's level generalist practice.
    • Curriculum builds on BSN theory and skills.
    • Contact Office of Student Services for info.
    • Located in New Orleans, LA.
    • Campus-based program.
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Nurse Educator - Campus Based - Website

    • One-year Master's program
    • Two campus locations
    • Fall and summer admissions
    • Adult learning theory focus
    • Traditional and online strategies
    • Nursing education concentration
    • Academic and practice preparation
  • MSN to DNP - Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist

    Concentration: Adult Gerontology - Campus Based - Website

    • 83 credit hour DNP program
    • Adult-Gerontology focused curriculum
    • Patient-centered clinical training
    • Advanced nursing practice preparation
    • Evidence-based care approach
  • MSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Campus Based - Website

    • 50 total credit hours
    • Advanced clinical practice focus
    • Comprehensive patient care training
    • National certification preparation
    • Diverse healthcare settings
    • 3.0 GPA admission requirement
    • Clinical nursing experience needed
    • Unencumbered nursing license required
  • MSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Campus Based - Website

    • 45 total graduate credits
    • Comprehensive adult healthcare focus
    • National certification preparation
    • Advanced clinical assessment skills
    • Evidence-based practice emphasis
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
    • Advanced pharmacology training
    • Clinical practicum experiences
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Campus Based - Website

    • Two program pathways: BSN/Post-Masters
    • Multiple clinical concentrations
    • Practice-focused doctoral degree
    • Research and evidence-based practice
    • Advanced nursing leadership training
    • Interdisciplinary team skills
    • Advanced clinical practice roles
    • Improve patient care outcomes
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

    • BSN and Post-Masters pathways
    • Multiple clinical concentrations
    • Practice-focused doctoral degree
    • Research and leadership emphasis
    • Advanced clinical practice preparation
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website

    • Practice-focused doctoral nursing degree
    • BSN to DNP and Post-Masters pathways
    • Evidence-based practice emphasis
    • Multiple advanced practice roles
    • Research application in clinical settings
  • MSN to DNP - Nurse-Midwife post-baccalaureate Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Campus Based - Website

    • 86 semester credit hours
    • Multiple admission pathways
    • Comprehensive clinical training
    • ACNM competency based
    • Leadership focused curriculum
  • MSN to DNP - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Acute Care

    Concentration: Acute Care - Campus Based - Website

    • 90 credit hour DNP program
    • Pediatric care birth to adulthood
    • Complex clinical management focus
    • Seminar and practicum experiences
    • Advanced nursing competency development
  • MSN to DNP - Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner

    Campus Based - Website

    • 52 total credit program
    • Lifespan patient care focus
    • Advanced practice nursing skills
    • National certification preparation
    • Community-based clinical training
    • Advanced pharmacology courses
    • Comprehensive health assessment
  • MSN to DNP - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Campus Based - Website

    • 94 total credit hours
    • BSN to DNP pathway
    • Culturally diverse population focus
    • Practicum with direct supervision
    • Multiple clinical practice settings

Loyola University New Orleans

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing, Nurse-Midwifery

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 50 credit hour program
    • 910 hours supervised practicum
    • Online synchronous curriculum
    • Pre-accredited by ACME
    • Comprehensive healthcare focus
    • Patient-centered care approach
    • Eligible for national certification
  • Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Certificate in Nurse-Midwifery

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Synchronous online coursework
    • 910 supervised clinical hours
    • Individualized study plan
    • Pre-accredited program
    • Advanced practice focus
  • MSN to DNP - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format
    • Advanced nursing specialization
    • Focuses on acute care
    • Doctoral level preparation
    • Prepares specialized practitioners
  • MSN to DNP - BSN-DNP - Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • 63 total program credits
    • Fully online format
    • 36-month completion time
    • Advanced clinical specialization
    • Prepares for national certification
    • Comprehensive DNP core courses
    • Multiple clinical practicums
*Higher education data sourced from: IPEDS 2024, National Center for Education Statistics.