2027 Best Nursing Schools in Raleigh

Choosing the right nursing school is a critical decision, and rankings help prospective students compare program quality. Registerednursing.org has created rankings for the Best Nursing Schools in Raleigh based solely on NCLEX pass rates as the key indicator of student success. Our methodology provides objective data to guide your choice. For more details, see our ranking methodology: https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/

Yearly Pass Rate Trends

Pass rates in the Raleigh area showed an upward trend from 2021 to 2023, with a slight dip in 2024, indicating overall improvement in program outcomes.

  • 2021: 89.57%
  • 2022: 88.57%
  • 2023: 95.14%
  • 2024: 93.14%

Biggest Improvements

Several Raleigh-area nursing schools demonstrated significant pass rate gains between the earliest and latest reporting years, with Johnston Community College leading the improvement.

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

Consistently High Performing Schools

Five Raleigh-area nursing schools maintained consistently high pass rates above 90% across multiple years, reflecting strong educational quality.

  • University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill: 95.25%
  • Watts College of Nursing: 95.25%
  • Johnston Community College: 94.25%
  • Durham Technical Community College: 92.50%
  • Duke University: 91.25%
#1

Johnston Community College

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

Associate - Associate Degree Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Johnston Community College in Smithfield, NC, offers an Associate Degree Nursing program designed to equip students with the skills for a dynamic healthcare environment. The curriculum focuses on safety, quality care, and evidence-based practice, preparing graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam. Admission requires a 2.5 GPA, algebra, biology, and chemistry coursework, and proficient TEAS scores. The program boasts a 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate in 2024 and strong job placement. With full approval from the North Carolina Board of Nursing and accreditation by ACEN, it's a solid choice for aspiring nurses.

  • 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 blends time-tested teaching methods with cutting-edge innovation. Led by dedicated, compassionate faculty, the curriculum emphasizes student research and interprofessional learning, preparing Carolina nurses to be team-oriented, patient-centered professionals. Graduates pursue careers as registered nurses, in hospital administration, nursing education, health care research, public health, and military or veterans affairs. The program offers multiple pathways including an Accelerated BSN for students with a prior degree and a Military Pathway. All options are delivered on-campus, providing a rich, collaborative learning environment. With a focus on advocacy and leadership, the program equips students to excel in diverse health care settings.

  • Starts fall
  • Financial aid available
  • Scholarships available
  • On-campus study
  • Registered nurse career
  • Hospital administration careers
  • Nursing education careers
  • Health care research careers
  • Public health and policy careers
  • Military and veterans affairs careers

Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) at UNC Chapel Hill is a fast-paced, 4-semester program for students who already hold a bachelor's degree. The curriculum integrates evidence-based practice, health assessment, pharmacology, and leadership skills through a blend of traditional and innovative teaching methods. Students engage in clinical experiences across diverse healthcare settings, preparing them for careers as registered nurses, hospital administrators, nurse educators, and public health professionals. The on-campus program emphasizes teamwork, patient-centered care, and advocacy, producing highly sought-after Carolina nurses. Additional pathways include a BSN Military Pathway and assured admissions. Financial aid and scholarships support students. Graduates are prepared for NCLEX licensure and excel in various healthcare environments.

  • 4-Semester program
  • For students with a bachelor's degree
  • Time-tested and innovative teaching
  • On-campus program

Bachelor's - Military Pathway Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Military Pathway Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at UNC Chapel Hill is an on-campus program that blends proven teaching methods with innovation. Students learn from dedicated faculty and engage in research and interprofessional learning. The curriculum prepares graduates for careers as registered nurses, in hospital administration, public health, policy, and military and veterans affairs. This pathway offers a supportive environment for those with military backgrounds. Applications for fall 2027 are accepted. Financial aid and scholarships are available. For information on prerequisites and eligibility, contact admissions.

  • Starts fall
  • Financial aid available
  • On-campus learning format
  • Military and veterans affairs careers
  • Scholarships available
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 Associate Degree Nursing program prepares students for a rewarding career in nursing. The curriculum emphasizes safety, quality care, and interdisciplinary teamwork. Students learn to integrate evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and informatics into patient care. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses. Career opportunities span acute care hospitals, chronic care facilities, extended care centers, industrial settings, and community health agencies. The program is offered on campus at the Perry Health Sciences Campus with a day-only schedule. With 72 credits and an estimated in-state tuition of $5,472, financial aid is available for eligible students. The program also offers fall and spring entry start dates to fit your schedule.

  • $5,472 total program tuition
  • 72 total credit hours
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Financial aid available
  • Day-only class schedule
  • Perry Health Sciences Campus location
  • Fall and Spring entry options
  • Interdisciplinary team nursing focus
  • Evidence-based practice curriculum
  • Quality improvement and informatics training

Associate - Associate Degree Nursing – Advanced Placement

Campus Based - Visit Website

Wake Technical Community College's Associate Degree Nursing Advanced Placement program is designed specifically for Licensed Practical Nurses ready to advance their careers. This accelerated track builds on your LPN foundation, expanding theoretical knowledge and sharpening critical thinking skills. The curriculum covers broader nursing concepts and enhanced clinical skills, preparing you for the increased responsibilities of registered nursing. The program features an intensive 10-week summer course followed by two semesters of coursework alongside traditional nursing students. Graduates meet academic requirements to sit for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam and pursue careers as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. With a focus on advancing from LPN to RN, this program offers a streamlined path for experienced practical nurses seeking professional growth. Offered on campus at the Perry Health Sciences Campus with a day-only schedule, the program requires dedicated commitment, especially during the accelerated summer term.

  • $5,472 total program tuition
  • 72 total credit hours
  • Starts summer
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Financial aid available
  • Designed for Licensed Practical Nurses
  • Accelerated 10-week summer course
  • Day only schedule
  • Perry Health Sciences Campus
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#4

Durham Technical Community College

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

Associate - Associate Degree Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Associate Degree Nursing program at Durham Technical Community College prepares students for a rewarding career as a registered nurse. The curriculum integrates healthcare knowledge, nursing practice, and holistic patient care, with coursework building from simple to complex concepts. Students gain hands-on clinical experience at various healthcare facilities, including hospitals and community clinics. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam and can pursue positions in acute, chronic, extended, industrial, and community health care settings. The program is accredited by ACEN and offers financial aid. With a fall start and a structured application process, students receive personalized support from faculty and advisors. Durham Tech's program emphasizes evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and informatics, preparing nurses for a dynamic healthcare environment.

  • ACEN accredited
  • Entrance exam required
  • Exams: TEAS
  • 70 total credit hours
  • Apply by 2026-02-01
  • Starts fall
  • $84,282 median earnings
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Financial aid available
  • Clinical experiences at various sites

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

Campus Based - Visit Website

The LPN to ADN track at Durham Technical Community College offers licensed practical nurses a pathway to earn an Associate Degree in Nursing. This day program builds on your existing LPN knowledge, covering advanced nursing concepts, anatomy, psychology, and writing. Clinical rotations at various healthcare facilities provide hands-on experience in acute, chronic, and community settings. You'll develop skills in patient care, evidence-based practice, and interdisciplinary teamwork. Graduates are eligible for the NCLEX-RN exam and can pursue careers as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, and extended care. The program is ACEN-accredited and financial aid eligible. With 50 credit hours and an estimated cost of $5,179, it's an affordable step to advance your nursing career.

  • ACEN accredited
  • Entrance exam required
  • Exams: TEAS
  • $5,179 total program tuition
  • 50 total credit hours
  • 1 start dates per year
  • Starts summer
  • Work experience required
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Financial aid available
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 (BSN) is a 120-credit, in-person program that prepares students to become compassionate, culturally competent nurses. The curriculum integrates liberal arts with biological and social sciences, emphasizing critical thinking and effective communication. Students gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations at top healthcare facilities like Duke Health and WakeMed, plus a unique preceptorship in their senior year. The Nursing Direct Pathway offers early acceptance for high-achieving freshmen, while the Wilson Medical Center Fellows Program provides tuition support and guaranteed employment. Graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX exam and careers in diverse settings, from pediatrics to psychiatric care. With CCNE accreditation, a dedicated Nursing Career Day, and study abroad options, Barton's BSN program stands out for its strong clinical partnerships and supportive learning community.

  • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
  • 120 total credit hours
  • Prepares for NCLEX
  • Financial aid available
  • Scholarships available
  • Nursing Direct Pathway for freshmen
  • Wilson Medical Center Fellows Program
  • Annual Nursing Career Day
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Clinical partnerships with Duke, WakeMed
*NCES, IPEDS 2025 survey, U.S. Department of Education. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

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

We've compiled a comprehensive list of RN to BSN and RN to MSN programs offered by accredited schools nationwide. In the table below, find each school's city and state location, key program highlights, and direct links to their official program pages. Whether seeking a bachelor's or master's degree, these options provide flexible pathways for working nurses. Take time to compare programs and discover the one that best fits career goals.
Jump to City:

Buies Creek, NC

Campbell University

  • RN to BSN - Nursing, B.S.N. RN to BSN AOE Online Only

    Online Learning - Website

    • Requires active NC nursing license
    • Offered by Adult and Online Education
    • BSN completion for associate degree RNs

Durham, NC

North Carolina Central University

  • RN to BSN - Nursing, RN-BSN Option

    Campus Based - Website

    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Online option available
    • Designed for RNs licensed in NC
    • 22 credits of nursing courses
    • Last 30 hours at NCCU
    • Develops critical thinking and leadership skills

Raleigh, NC

William Peace University

  • RN to BSN - RN to BSN Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • 12-Month program
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • Asynchronous online classes
    • Transfer up to 90 credits
    • Clinical partnerships with WakeMed, Duke, UNC
    • Discounted tuition for Wake Tech graduates
    • Employer discounts for select healthcare systems
    • One-on-one advising and coaching
*IPEDS 2025 statistics, sourced from NCES. 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

Raleigh is home to several solid APRN programs for nurses looking to advance their careers. We've put together a list of MSN, DNP, and NP offerings to make exploring easier. The table below provides important details for each school, including the city and state, program highlights, and direct links to the school's program page. Use this to compare options and find the right fit for your nursing goals.

Chapel Hill, NC

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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

    Online Learning - Website

    • Prepares for ANCC or AANP
    • Ranked #6 for MSN
    • Distance-based online program
    • Oncology focus available
    • Eligible for ANCC/AANP certification
    • Program Director: Dr. Tracy Vernon-Platt
    • Five clinical courses
    • Emphasizes diagnostic reasoning
  • 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

    • 4 concentration options
    • 3-Year program
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • Starts fall
    • 1000 clinical hours
    • Capstone required
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Online Learning - Website

    • Full-time and part-time options
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available
    • Ranked #16 overall DNP program by U.S. News
    • Top-9 Psych-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program
    • Emphasizes evidence-based practice and leadership
    • Interprofessional education with top-ranked schools
    • Three distinct degree pathways available
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

    • Full-time and part-time options
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available
    • Distance-based online format
    • U.S. News top 16 DNP program
    • Interprofessional education opportunities
    • Dedicated faculty mentorship
    • Curriculum in evidence-based practice and leadership

Durham, NC

Duke University

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

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Rolling admissions
    • Work experience required
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available
    • Ranked #1 by U.S. News
    • Global clinical network of 2,000 partners
    • Hybrid online and on-campus intensives
    • Advance health equity and social justice
  • BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner MSN

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 42 total credit hours
    • Rolling admissions
    • 560 clinical hours
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available
    • Ranked #1 by U.S. News
    • Flexible distance-based online classes
    • 2,000+ clinical partner sites worldwide
  • 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

    • Rolling admissions
    • Work experience required
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available
    • #1 Best Acute Care NP Programs
    • Distance-based online learning
    • Worldwide clinical alumni network
    • Clinical experiences in diverse settings
  • BSN to MSN - Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner MSN

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Rolling admissions
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available
    • #1 ranked pediatric NP program
    • Dual behavioral and mental health certification
    • Distance-based with campus intensives
    • Clinical placements via global network
    • Focus on health equity and advocacy
  • BSN to MSN - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner MSN

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Rolling admissions
    • Synchronous and asynchronous options
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available
    • Ranked #1 psychiatric-mental health NP program
    • Hybrid model with synchronous and asynchronous learning
    • On-campus intensives for hands-on training
    • Nationwide clinical network with 2,000+ partnerships
  • BSN to MSN - Women's Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Rolling admissions
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available
    • Hybrid learning format
    • Personalized mentorship
    • Centering Group Facilitation Certification
    • Ranked #5 nursing master's program
    • 2,000+ global clinical partners
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Nurse Anesthesia - Campus Based - Website

    • 3 concentration options
    • Cohort-based structure
    • Capstone required
    • Prepares for CRNA
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available
    • #2 ranked DNP program nationally
    • Fully on-campus program
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 2-Year program
    • Complete in In just two years
    • Rolling admissions
    • Capstone required
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available
    • Ranked #2 DNP program
    • Online coursework with on-campus intensives
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Executive Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 2 concentration options
    • Capstone required
    • First DNP program in North Carolina
    • Online courses with on-campus intensives
    • Two entry points: Post-BSN and Post-MSN
    • 9-credit Executive Leadership Specialty
    • Focus on health equity and social justice
    • Curriculum includes leadership and policy
  • MSN to DNP - Executive Leadership DNP

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 21-Month program
    • Rolling admissions
    • Work experience required
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available
    • #1 DNP Leadership program
    • Online courses with on-campus intensives
    • Complete DNP project at workplace
*Data retrieved from: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2025.

Comprehensive List of Nursing Schools Near Raleigh, NC

We've put together a handy table of nursing schools near Raleigh, NC. It shows where each school is located, what makes their programs stand out, and includes direct links to their program pages. Whether starting out or advancing a nursing career, this list helps find the right fit. Check the table to compare options and take the next step toward a nursing education.
Jump to City:

Buies Creek, NC

Campbell University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Interprofessional education opportunities
    • Rural health care focus
    • Christian learning environment
    • 72,000 sq ft facility
    • Skills and health assessment labs
    • OSCE exam rooms
    • Prepares for RN licensure
    • Interprofessional health team skills

Chapel Hill, NC

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 4-Semester program
    • For students with a bachelor's degree
    • Time-tested and innovative teaching
    • On-campus program
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Starts fall
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available
    • On-campus study
    • Registered nurse career
    • Hospital administration careers
    • Nursing education careers
    • Health care research careers
  • Bachelor's - Military Pathway Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Starts fall
    • Financial aid available
    • On-campus learning format
    • Military and veterans affairs careers
    • Scholarships available

Durham, NC

Duke University

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 16-Month program
    • 58 total credit hours
    • Designed for non-nursing degree holders
    • Full-time campus-based program
    • Electives with graduate credit option
    • Trinity College Bridge program
    • Clinical practice integration

Durham Technical Community College

  • Associate - Associate Degree Nursing - LPN to ADN Track

    Concentration: LPN to ADN - Campus Based - Website

    • ACEN accredited
    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: TEAS
    • $5,179 total program tuition
    • 50 total credit hours
    • 1 start dates per year
    • Starts summer
    • Work experience required
  • Associate - Associate Degree Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • ACEN accredited
    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: TEAS
    • 70 total credit hours
    • Apply by 2026-02-01
    • Starts fall
    • $84,282 median earnings
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN

North Carolina Central University

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

    Campus Based - Website

    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: TEAS
    • Complete in 14–15 months
    • Starts fall
    • Cohort-based structure
    • 3.2 GPA minimum
    • 0 letters of recommendation (minimum)
    • Prerequisite courses required
  • Bachelor's - Nursing, Traditional, B.S.N.

    Campus Based - Website

    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: TEAS
    • Rolling admissions
    • Full-time enrollment
    • Starts summer
    • 3.2 GPA minimum
    • 0 letters of recommendation (minimum)
    • Prerequisite courses required

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

    • 4-Year program
    • Cohort-based structure
    • 640 clinical hours
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Capstone required
    • Competency-based curriculum
    • Active, problem-based learning
    • Simulation to develop clinical judgment

Wake Technical Community College

  • Associate - Associate Degree Nursing – Advanced Placement

    Campus Based - Website

    • $5,472 total program tuition
    • 72 total credit hours
    • Starts summer
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • Financial aid available
    • Designed for Licensed Practical Nurses
    • Accelerated 10-week summer course
  • Associate - Associate Degree Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • $5,472 total program tuition
    • 72 total credit hours
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • Financial aid available
    • Day-only class schedule
    • Perry Health Sciences Campus location
    • Fall and Spring entry options
    • Interdisciplinary team nursing focus

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

    • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
    • 120 total credit hours
    • Prepares for NCLEX
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available
    • Nursing Direct Pathway for freshmen
    • Wilson Medical Center Fellows Program
    • Annual Nursing Career Day

Wilson Community College

  • Associate - Associate Degree Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • NLN CNEA accredited
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • Scholarships available
    • Eligible for NCLEX-RN exam
    • ECU partnership for RN-to-BSN
    • CCP pathway for high school students
    • NC salary range $64,180 - $107,110
    • Emphasis on evidence-based practice
*Source: Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), 2025. National Center for Education Statistics. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/