2026 Best Nursing Schools in Raleigh

Rankings help nursing students identify programs with proven success in preparing graduates for licensure. Registerednursing.org is creating the "Best Nursing Schools in Raleigh" rankings, focusing exclusively on NCLEX pass rates to objectively evaluate program quality. This data-driven approach assists prospective students in making informed decisions about their nursing education.

Yearly Pass Rate Trends

Analysis of Raleigh-area nursing programs shows improving NCLEX performance over recent years.

  • 2021 average pass rate: 89.57%
  • 2022 average pass rate: 88.57%
  • 2023 average pass rate: 95.14%
  • 2024 average pass rate: 93.14%

BSN vs ADN Pass Rate Comparison

Both program types demonstrate strong performance, with ADN programs showing particularly high pass rates.

  • BSN programs average pass rate: 90.8%
  • ADN programs average pass rate: 99%

Biggest Improvements

Several Raleigh nursing schools have shown significant year-over-year pass rate increases.

  • Johnston Community College: Improved from 80% to 100% (+20 points)
  • North Carolina Central University: Improved from 79% to 94% (+15 points)
  • Durham Technical Community College: Improved from 87% to 98% (+11 points)

Consistently High Performing Schools

Multiple Raleigh nursing programs maintain excellent pass rates across multiple years of data.

  • University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill: 95.25% average pass rate over 4 years
  • Watts College of Nursing: 95.25% average pass rate over 4 years
  • Johnston Community College: 94.25% average pass rate over 4 years
  • Durham Technical Community College: 92.5% average pass rate over 4 years
  • Duke University: 91.25% average pass rate over 4 years

For detailed information about how Registerednursing.org compiles these rankings, visit https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/.

#1

Johnston Community College

Smithfield, NC - Public 2-Year - johnstoncc.edu

Associate - Associate Degree Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Johnston Community College's Associate Degree Nursing program in Smithfield, NC, provides comprehensive training for entry-level nursing roles. The campus-based curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, patient safety, and quality care across diverse healthcare settings. Admission requires a 2.5 GPA, algebra, biology, and chemistry prerequisites, plus proficient TEAS scores—no ACT or SAT exam is needed. The program demonstrates exceptional outcomes with a 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate in 2024, building on strong performance in recent years. Fully approved by the North Carolina Board of Nursing and ACEN-accredited, it offers solid job placement for graduates entering the nursing field.

  • Campus-based program
  • 2.5 GPA requirement
  • Proficient TEAS scores needed
  • 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate
  • Strong job placement rates
  • Full NC Board of Nursing approval
  • ACEN accredited
  • Focus on evidence-based practice
  • Prepares for diverse healthcare settings
  • Includes safety and quality care training
#2

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC - Public 4-Year - unc.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program provides comprehensive campus-based education with rigorous coursework and extensive clinical experiences. This program emphasizes evidence-based practice and leadership development to prepare graduates for diverse nursing roles. For admission, applicants must meet specific academic criteria, including ACT or SAT entrance exam requirements. The program has demonstrated strong NCLEX performance, with pass rates reaching 99% in 2023 and maintaining 98% in 2024, indicating excellent preparation for nursing licensure.

  • Campus-based program
  • Rigorous academic coursework
  • Hands-on clinical experiences
  • Focus on evidence-based practice
  • Leadership skills development
  • Admission criteria apply
  • Cost varies by residency
  • Financial aid available
  • Comprehensive nursing education
  • Supportive learning environment

Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

UNC Chapel Hill's Accelerated BSN program offers a fast-track pathway for career changers with existing bachelor's degrees. This intensive campus program combines academic rigor with hands-on clinical training to prepare graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam and immediate entry into nursing practice. Admission requires prerequisite courses and a competitive GPA, with no additional entrance exam specified. The program's effectiveness is reflected in consistently high NCLEX pass rates, including 99% in 2023 and 98% in 2024, demonstrating thorough preparation for nursing licensure.

  • Accelerated program for quick entry
  • Campus-based learning
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
  • Requires prior bachelor's degree
  • Hands-on clinical experience
  • Competitive GPA required
  • Financial aid available

Bachelor's - Military Pathway Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Designed specifically for military personnel transitioning to civilian careers, UNC Chapel Hill's Military Pathway BSN program provides leadership-focused nursing education with extensive clinical experience. This campus-based program prepares graduates to address modern healthcare challenges while leveraging military background. No entrance exam requirement is explicitly stated for this specialized pathway. The program benefits from the university's strong NCLEX performance, with recent pass rates of 99% in 2023 and 98% in 2024, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for nursing licensure and practice.

  • Campus-based program.
  • Designed for military personnel.
  • Focus on leadership.
  • Hands-on clinical experience.
  • Prepares for healthcare challenges.
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#3

Wake Technical Community College

Raleigh, NC - Public 2-Year - waketech.edu

Associate - Associate Degree Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Wake Technical Community College's campus-based Associate Degree Nursing program prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam with a strong focus on safety, evidence-based practice, and quality patient care. The 72-credit curriculum covers diverse healthcare roles from acute to community settings, emphasizing teamwork and individualized care. With an estimated in-state tuition of $5,472 and financial aid eligibility, this program demonstrates consistent NCLEX pass rates, reaching 98% in 2024. No entrance exam is required for this associate-level program.

  • Campus-based program
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
  • 72 total credits
  • $5,472 estimated in-state tuition
  • Financial aid eligible
  • Focus on safety and quality care
  • Evidence-based practice emphasis
  • Teamwork in healthcare
  • Individualized patient care focus
  • Diverse healthcare roles preparation

Associate - Associate Degree Nursing – Advanced Placement

Campus Based - Visit Website

Designed specifically for Licensed Practical Nurses, Wake Technical Community College's Associate Degree Nursing Advanced Placement program accelerates career advancement through a three-semester campus curriculum beginning with an intensive 10-week summer course. This program enhances clinical skills and critical thinking while preparing graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam, with recent pass rates reaching 98% in 2024. Estimated in-state tuition is $5,472 with financial aid available. Prior LPN licensure is required, and no entrance exam is needed for this associate-level program.

  • For Licensed Practical Nurses
  • Campus-based program
  • Starts with 10-week summer course
  • Three semesters to complete
  • Estimated in-state tuition $5,472
  • Financial aid eligible
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
  • Enhances nursing skills
  • Expands critical thinking
  • Prior LPN licensure required
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#4

Durham Technical Community College

Durham, NC - Public 2-Year - durhamtech.edu

Associate - Associate Degree Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Durham Technical Community College's campus-based Associate Degree Nursing program provides comprehensive preparation for the NCLEX-RN exam, with a strong emphasis on safety, quality care, and holistic patient approaches. This ACEN-accredited program requires 70 credit hours at an estimated tuition of $6,484 and integrates classroom instruction with varied clinical experiences across multiple healthcare settings. Admission requires attendance at an information session, completion of prerequisites, CPR certification, and Nursing Assistant I certification. The program's NCLEX pass rates have shown consistent improvement, reaching 98% in 2024, demonstrating its effectiveness in preparing graduates for nursing licensure. No ACT or SAT is required for this associate-level program.

  • Campus-based program
  • 70 credit hours
  • Estimated tuition $6,484
  • Requires CPR certification
  • Nursing Assistant I certification needed
  • Eligible for NCLEX-RN exam
  • Focus on safety and quality care
  • Holistic patient care approach
  • Daytime classroom instruction
  • Varied clinical shift schedules

Associate - Associate Degree Nursing - LPN to ADN Track (LPN to ADN)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Designed specifically for licensed practical nurses, Durham Technical Community College's LPN to ADN Track offers an accelerated pathway to registered nursing. This campus-based program requires one year of LPN experience and CPR certification, with estimated tuition around $4,458 for 50 credit hours. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice and safety while preparing students for the NCLEX-RN exam through integrated clinical and classroom learning. Admission requires attendance at an information session and completion of prerequisites. The program's strong NCLEX performance, with pass rates improving to 98% in 2024, reflects its effectiveness in advancing LPNs to RN licensure. No entrance exam is required for this associate-level bridge program.

  • Day program
  • Requires CPR certification
  • One year LPN experience needed
  • Estimated tuition $4,458
  • Accredited by ACEN
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
  • Clinical and classroom learning
  • Associate in Applied Science degree
  • Main Campus location
  • 50 minimum credit hours
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#5

Barton College

Wilson, NC - Private 4-year - barton.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Barton College's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program combines liberal arts education with comprehensive nursing sciences to develop critical thinking and leadership skills. Accredited by CCNE, the program features small class sizes, faculty mentorship, and diverse clinical experiences across North Carolina. For admission, applicants typically need ACT or SAT scores. The program demonstrates strong NCLEX performance, with recent pass rates including 100% in 2023 and 94% in 2024, indicating effective preparation for nursing licensure. Students benefit from financial aid options like North Carolina Nurse Scholars awards and opportunities for professional development through organizations such as Sigma Theta Tau International.

  • Accredited by CCNE.
  • Liberal arts integration.
  • Small learning groups.
  • Diverse clinical experiences.
  • Innovative teaching methodologies.
  • Faculty mentorship.
  • North Carolina Nurse Scholars.
  • Professional organizations access.
  • Sigma Theta Tau membership.
  • Comprehensive curriculum.
*Credit: NCES, Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System, 2024.

Entry-Level ADN & BSN Programs in Raleigh, NC

If you are a recent high school graduate or are interested in changing careers and pursuing nursing, the place to begin is an entry-level training program. In the Raleigh area, these programs include LPN to RN programs, Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs, and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs.

LPN to RN Programs

A licensed practical nurse (LPN) who would like more patient care responsibilities and a higher wage will likely need to earn her RN license and become a registered nurse. LPN to RN programs are designed to help LPNs pass the NCLEX licensing exam and become RNs. The Associate’s Degree in Nursing – Advanced Placement program at Wake Technical Community College is designed for LPNs and builds on the practical nursing foundation and provides more in-depth theoretical knowledge and enhanced technical nursing skills in an accelerated time frame.

ADN Programs

A traditional ADN program usually takes two years to complete and is typically offered at community colleges, technical schools, and some medical centers. Upon completion of an ADN program, students will be prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam and for their first jobs as nurses. The ADN program at Johnston Community College is one example of a school in the area offering this type of entry-level RN program.

Direct-Entry Accelerated BSN Programs

As more healthcare employers seek nurses with a bachelor’s degree or higher, North Carolina ABSN programs are gaining popularity as the entry-level degree for a career in nursing. BSN programs generally take four years to complete and include general education courses in addition to in-depth nursing theory and practice classes. North Carolina Central University offers a traditional four-year BSN program, as well as an accelerated BSN program that enables students with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree to earn a BSN in 14-15 months of study.

Learn more about North Carolina Accelerated BSN Programs

RN to BSN/MSN Programs in Raleigh, NC

In order to meet the demand for bachelor’s and master’s-educated nurses, many RNs are deciding to go back to school to earn a higher degree. So-called “bridge” programs because they provide a bridge from the ADN to a BSN or MSN, RN to BSN/MSN programs are specially designed with these nurses in mind.

RN to BSN Programs

RN to BSN programs are relatively quick to complete, sometimes in as quickly as one year of full-time study, and many are offered as online programs, providing even more convenience for busy working nurses. In addition to online programs offered by schools outside of North Carolina, North Carolina Central University offers a fully online RN to BSN program that can be completed in two semesters of study.

Learn more about North Carolina RN to BSN Programs

RN to MSN Programs

Aspiring nurse practitioners or other advanced practice nurses may be interested in RN to MSN programs, like the one offered at University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill. The RN to MSN program at UNC – Chapel Hill allows RNs with their ADN to enroll in the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program upon completion of 9 credits of undergraduate nursing courses.

Learn more about North Carolina 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 and MSN programs offer flexible paths to higher education. These programs build on your experience and often provide online or hybrid options to fit your schedule. The table below lists schools with their locations, key program features, and direct links to learn more. Explore these opportunities to find the right fit for your goals and move forward in nursing.
Jump to City:

Buies Creek, NC

Campbell University

  • RN to BSN - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Degree
    • 8-Week Accelerated Terms
    • Smaller Class Sizes (20 or Less)
    • Rolling Admissions
    • Asynchronous Classes
    • Doctoral-Prepared Nursing Faculty
    • 129 Total Credit Hours
    • GPA Requirement: 2.0

Durham, NC

North Carolina Central University

  • RN to BSN - Nursing, RN-BSN Option

    Campus Based - Website

    • Online and campus options
    • 22 nursing course credits
    • Last 30 hours at NCCU
    • Professional nursing competencies
    • Designed for licensed RNs

Raleigh, NC

William Peace University

  • RN to BSN - RN to BSN Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online program
    • Complete in 12 months
    • Multiple start dates
    • Workplace clinical experiences
    • Transfer up to 90 credits
    • Partnerships with top healthcare providers
    • Tuition discounts available
    • Flexible part-time options

Wilson, NC

Barton College

  • RN to BSN - RN-BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Completely online program
    • 1-year completion design
    • Multiple annual entry points
    • $328 per semester hour
    • 35 transfer credits for ADN
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Minimum 2.0 GPA required
    • 32 semester hours total
*NCES IPEDS database, 2024 release. Available at: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

APRN & Nurse Practitioner Programs in Raleigh, NC

In the Raleigh area, nurses who wish to pursue careers in advanced practice nursing and become nurse leaders, administrators, nurse practitioners, and educators will need to enroll in an advanced practice nursing degree program. In Raleigh, options include traditional MSN programs, post-master’s certificate programs, and doctoral study programs (Doctor of Nursing Practice and Doctor of Philosophy).

MSN Programs

A traditional MSN program prepares nurses for advanced practice careers, including as nurse practitioners, nurse educators, nurse leaders and more. Many MSN programs are available in online or hybrid formats and let students specialize their studies to prepare for their chosen career. The Duke University School of Nursing offers a MSN program with eight advanced practice nursing majors and three non-clinical majors to choose from.

Learn more about North Carolina Nurse Practitioner Programs

Post-Master's Certificate Programs

Another option for advanced practice nursing study is a post-graduate certificate program. These programs are offered to nurses who have earned their MSN and would like to learn a new specialty. For example, Duke University School of Nursing offers a post-graduate certificate program for Nurse Informatics, which is primarily a distance learning program that requires just two days on campus.

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

DNP & Ph.D. Programs

Doctoral study of nursing is the terminal level of study available to nurses. In the Raleigh area, nurses have the choice of advanced practice-based DNP programs and research-focused Ph.D. programs. The University of North Carolina offers both degrees in traditional on-campus formats.

Learn more about North Carolina DNP Programs

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

If you're looking for advanced nursing programs in Raleigh, you'll find several options for MSN, DNP, and NP degrees. These programs help nurses gain specialized skills and advance their careers. The table below lists schools in Raleigh, North Carolina, with program highlights and links to their program pages. You can explore each school's offerings to find the right fit for your goals. Check the links for more details on admissions and curriculum.
Jump to City:

Chapel Hill, NC

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online Master's in Nursing
    • Advanced Practice Specialization
    • Adult-Gerontology Focus
    • Comprehensive Clinical Preparation
    • Expert Patient Care Training
  • BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Concentration: Oncology - Online Learning - Website

    • Distance-based online format.
    • Top-ranked MSN program.
    • Oncology focus available.
    • Cares for ages 13+.
    • Includes five clinical courses.
    • Eligible for certification exams.
    • Affordable with financial aid.
    • BSN required for admission.
  • BSN to MSN - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online distance-based format
    • MSN degree option available
    • Prepares for board certification
    • Lifespan psychiatric care focus
    • Cultural sensitivity emphasis
    • Clinicals in local communities
    • Psychopharmacology curriculum
    • Individual and group therapy training
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

    • Hybrid program delivery format
    • Adult-Gerontology Primary Care focus
    • Advanced nursing practice preparation
    • Evidence-based clinical education
    • Specialized geriatric healthcare training
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Online Learning - Website

    • Doctoral nursing practice program
    • Advanced clinical leadership training
    • Evidence-based healthcare approach
    • Systems leadership development
    • Comprehensive professional preparation
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Health Care Leadership and Administration - Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format
    • Focus on Health Care Leadership
    • Requires master's degree
    • Competitive tuition costs
    • Flexible for working professionals
    • Prepares for leadership roles
    • Emphasizes evidence-based practice
    • Financial aid available

Durham, NC

Duke University

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

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Nationally ranked #1 AGACNP program
    • Hybrid distance-based learning
    • Global clinical placement network
    • Focus on health equity
    • Extensive clinical simulation experiences
  • BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner MSN

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • #1 Ranked NP Program Nationwide
    • 42-credit hour flexible curriculum
    • 560+ clinical training hours
    • Online and hybrid learning options
    • Expansive clinical partnership network
    • Focus on health equity
    • Comprehensive patient care approach
  • BSN to MSN - MSN in Health Informatics

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program with online courses.
    • Two campus visits required.
    • 224-hour clinical practicum included.
    • Curriculum meets national standards.
    • Covers database design and analytics.
    • Prepares for nursing informatics roles.
    • Ranked among top online programs.
    • Holistic admissions strategy used.
  • BSN to MSN - Neonatal Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Distance-based hybrid learning
    • Extensive global clinical network
    • #5 Master's Nursing Program
    • 100% board exam pass rate
    • Requires 2 years NICU experience
    • Advanced neonatal care curriculum
    • Expert faculty mentorship
    • High employment potential
  • BSN to MSN - Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner MSN

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Pediatric Acute Care MSN
    • Hybrid program
    • Distance-based learning
    • Worldwide clinical network
    • Clinical practice experience
    • Diverse clinical settings
    • Focus on family-centered care
    • Culturally sensitive care
  • BSN to MSN - Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner MSN

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Distance-based hybrid learning
    • Dual certification opportunity
    • Global clinical placement network
    • Extensive clinical simulation
    • Comprehensive pediatric curriculum
    • Holistic admissions approach
    • Faculty with real-world experience
  • BSN to MSN - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner MSN

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • #1 Mental Health Nursing Program
    • Hybrid Learning Model
    • Nationwide Clinical Partnerships
    • Distance-Based Education Options
    • Comprehensive Mental Health Training
    • Expert Faculty with Clinical Experience
    • Diverse Career Opportunities
    • 38% Job Growth Projection
  • BSN to MSN - Women's Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid learning format
    • Ranked #3 Nursing School
    • Distance-based curriculum
    • Clinical placement support
    • Personalized mentorship
    • Lowest credit requirements
    • Advanced clinical training
    • Nationwide career opportunities
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Nurse Anesthesia - Campus Based - Website

    • On-campus Nurse Anesthesia program
    • #3 DNP Nursing Program
    • Comprehensive clinical rotations
    • Advanced simulation training
    • Research-focused curriculum
    • Expert faculty with clinical experience
    • Leadership development focus
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Two-year distance-based program
    • Hybrid online and campus learning
    • Advanced practice nurse preparation
    • Opportunity to publish DNP project
    • Flexible for working professionals
    • Leadership and innovation focus
    • Nationally ranked nursing program
    • Merit-based scholarship options
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Executive Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format
    • Executive Leadership concentration
    • Advanced nursing practice
    • Professional development focus
    • Healthcare leadership emphasis
  • MSN to DNP - Executive Leadership DNP

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 21-month hybrid program
    • Online and campus intensives
    • Designed for working professionals
    • Leadership focused curriculum
    • Top 3 Nursing School Ranking
    • Experienced nurse executive focus
    • Interprofessional collaboration training
    • Evidence-based practice emphasis

Wilson, NC

Barton College

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Education - Campus Based - Website

    • MSN Education Concentration available
    • 39 total credit hours
    • Two-year part-time program
    • Advanced clinical and teaching courses
    • Includes advanced practicum
    • Covers health assessment skills
    • Includes advanced pathophysiology
    • Advanced pharmacology training
*Source: U.S. DOE, IPEDS 2024 collection, National Center for Education Statistics.

Comprehensive List of Nursing Schools Near Raleigh, NC

If you want to become a nurse near Raleigh, NC, you have many good options. This area offers nursing schools with different programs to fit your needs. You can find schools in cities like Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. Each school has its own strengths, such as fast-track programs or hands-on training. Below, you'll see a table with details on each school's location, program highlights, and links to learn more. Check out the links to explore each program's page and find the right fit for your nursing career.
Jump to City:

Buies Creek, NC

Campbell University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program
    • Christian learning environment
    • State-of-the-art facilities
    • Interprofessional education focus
    • Prepares for RN licensure
    • Addresses nursing shortage needs
    • Hands-on clinical experience
    • Baccalaureate degree emphasis

Chapel Hill, NC

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Accelerated program for quick entry
    • Campus-based learning
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
    • Requires prior bachelor's degree
    • Hands-on clinical experience
    • Competitive GPA required
    • Financial aid available
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program
    • Rigorous academic coursework
    • Hands-on clinical experiences
    • Focus on evidence-based practice
    • Leadership skills development
    • Admission criteria apply
    • Cost varies by residency
    • Financial aid available
  • Bachelor's - Military Pathway Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program.
    • Designed for military personnel.
    • Focus on leadership.
    • Hands-on clinical experience.
    • Prepares for healthcare challenges.

Durham, NC

Duke University

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Accelerated nursing program.
    • Campus-based in Durham, NC.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
    • Intensive curriculum for career changers.
    • Requires prior college experience.

Durham Technical Community College

  • Associate - Associate Degree Nursing - LPN to ADN Track

    Concentration: LPN to ADN - Campus Based - Website

    • Day program
    • Requires CPR certification
    • One year LPN experience needed
    • Estimated tuition $4,458
    • Accredited by ACEN
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
    • Clinical and classroom learning
    • Associate in Applied Science degree
  • Associate - Associate Degree Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program
    • 70 credit hours
    • Estimated tuition $6,484
    • Requires CPR certification
    • Nursing Assistant I certification needed
    • Eligible for NCLEX-RN exam
    • Focus on safety and quality care
    • Holistic patient care approach

North Carolina Central University

  • Bachelor's - Nursing, Accelerated Option, B.S.N.

    Campus Based - Website

    • 14-15 month duration.
    • Minimum 3.2 GPA required.
    • Campus-based program.
    • Hands-on clinical experience.
    • TEAS exam required.
    • Full-time cohort model.
    • No online options available.
    • Prior bachelor's degree needed.
  • Bachelor's - Nursing, Traditional, B.S.N.

    Campus Based - Website

    • Full-time campus program
    • Minimum 3.2 GPA required
    • Competitive admission process
    • Clinical rotations at top facilities
    • Hands-on nursing experience
    • Rigorous academic curriculum
    • Options for first and second-degree seekers
    • Focus on critical thinking and leadership

Watts College of Nursing

  • Bachelor's - BSN Nursing Program

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Two-year BSN program
    • Duke University Health System partnerships
    • Transfer 60 credit hours
    • Four 15-week semesters
    • Small class sizes
    • Concept-based curriculum
    • Advanced technology integration
    • Diverse clinical rotations

Raleigh, NC

Meredith College

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Competency-based curriculum
    • 640 clinical hours
    • Simulation training
    • Personalized attention
    • Study abroad opportunities
    • Licensure preparation
    • Strong faculty connections
    • Active learning strategies

Wake Technical Community College

  • Associate - Associate Degree Nursing – Advanced Placement

    Campus Based - Website

    • For Licensed Practical Nurses
    • Campus-based program
    • Starts with 10-week summer course
    • Three semesters to complete
    • Estimated in-state tuition $5,472
    • Financial aid eligible
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
    • Enhances nursing skills
  • Associate - Associate Degree Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
    • 72 total credits
    • $5,472 estimated in-state tuition
    • Financial aid eligible
    • Focus on safety and quality care
    • Evidence-based practice emphasis
    • Teamwork in healthcare

Smithfield, NC

Johnston Community College

  • Associate - Associate Degree Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program
    • 2.5 GPA requirement
    • Proficient TEAS scores needed
    • 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate
    • Strong job placement rates
    • Full NC Board of Nursing approval
    • ACEN accredited
    • Focus on evidence-based practice

Wilson, NC

Barton College

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Accredited by CCNE.
    • Liberal arts integration.
    • Small learning groups.
    • Diverse clinical experiences.
    • Innovative teaching methodologies.
    • Faculty mentorship.
    • North Carolina Nurse Scholars.
    • Professional organizations access.

Wilson Community College

  • Associate - Associate Degree Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
    • Campus-based learning.
    • Comprehensive clinical experiences.
    • Focus on evidence-based practice.
    • Competitive program costs.
    • Strong job demand in NC.
    • Rewarding salary prospects.
    • Hands-on learning approach.
*Citation: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2024. Available at: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/