Best Nursing Schools in Delaware
Delaware (like many states on the East Coast) leads much of the nation in nursing education. You also couldn’t pick a better state to practice in upon graduation of one; Delaware is one the fastest growing states in terms of nursing job positions offering a projected 15% increase within the next ten years. For information on where to find the best, fastest, and most affordable options for nursing education in the state, take a look at the following sections.
2026 Best Nursing Schools in Delaware
Yearly Pass Rate Trends
Delaware's nursing education landscape demonstrates consistent improvement in NCLEX pass rates from 2022 to 2024. The statewide pass rates have shown a progressive upward trajectory, indicating enhanced educational strategies and student preparedness.
- 2022: 81.24% pass rate with 581 total students
- 2023: 92.19% pass rate with 589 total students
- 2024: 93.51% pass rate with 524 total students
BSN vs ADN Pass Rate Comparison
Program type variations reveal interesting insights into nursing education outcomes across different degree paths in Delaware.
- Diploma Programs: 100% pass rate (22 students)
- ADN Programs: 93.86% pass rate (163 students)
- BSN Programs: 92.96% pass rate (213 students)
Top Performing Schools
Several nursing programs consistently demonstrate exceptional student success rates across multiple years.
- Margaret H Rollins School of Nursing at Beebe Medical Center: 98.69% average pass rate
- Delaware Technical Community College-Terry: 94.24% average pass rate
- University of Delaware: 89.92% average pass rate
Biggest Improvements
Some Delaware nursing programs have shown remarkable progress in student performance and exam preparation.
- University of Delaware: 16.61% improvement, rising from 79.52% to 96.13%
- Delaware Technical Community College-Central Office: 12.9% improvement
- Delaware State University: 8.36% improvement
University of Delaware
Newark, DE - Public 4-Year - udel.edu
Bachelor's - Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Delaware's BSN program boasts an impressive NCLEX pass rate, rising from 79.52% in 2022 to 96.13% in 2024, demonstrating consistent student success. This comprehensive four-year program prepares freshmen for nursing careers through innovative clinical training at the Center for Simulation Innovation. Students benefit from direct MSN admission pathways for those maintaining a 3.0 GPA, unique service-learning experiences, and opportunities for international study. The program requires standard undergraduate entrance exams like SAT or ACT. With hands-on training, rigorous academics, and a commitment to developing future healthcare leaders, this top 11% nationally ranked program offers aspiring nurses a robust educational foundation in professional nursing practice.
- Top 11% nationwide ranking.
- Four-year campus program.
- Direct MSN admission for 3.0 GPA.
- Hands-on clinical experiences.
- Service-learning opportunities.
- Study abroad options.
- CSIIDEE enhances clinical skills.
- Rigorous academic curriculum.
- For aspiring freshmen nurses.
- Prepares healthcare leaders.
Delaware State University
Dover, DE - Public 4-Year - desu.edu
Bachelor's - Nursing, BS
Campus Based - Visit Website
Delaware State University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program offers a comprehensive pathway to becoming a registered nurse with consistently improving NCLEX pass rates. From 2022 to 2024, their pass rates rose from 76.12% to 84.48%, demonstrating strong academic preparation. As a historically Black university, the program provides unique opportunities for diverse students seeking nursing careers. Students benefit from advanced simulation labs and extensive field work experiences across various healthcare settings. Entrance requirements include standard college admission tests. The program is fully accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and approved by the Delaware Board of Nursing. Graduates receive thorough professional preparation, emphasizing hands-on skills and community involvement essential for successful nursing practice.
- Hands-on experience in simulation labs.
- Accredited by ACEN.
- Prepares for NCLEX licensure.
- Field work in healthcare settings.
- Focus on professional preparation.
Delaware Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
Because of the various types of nursing degree programs available, for many students, it can be hard to find the right entry-level degree program for their specific needs. There are three primary entry-level nursing programs to choose from — an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Here’s a breakdown of each:
Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs
Now that we know of the common types of nursing programs entry-level students go after, what are the primary differences? When going for the fastest options, many students are attracted to ADN and nursing diploma programs as they usually only require a year or two of full-time study. However, it’s important to note that an ADN will result in a degree whereas a nursing diploma program is more focused on training. If you’re already working as an LPN, LPN to RN bridge programs exist to help students get either an ADN or a BSN in a shorter amount of time.
Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Delaware include:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA, typically 2.5 or higher
- Some programs require scores from the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI Admission Assessment
For further admissions requirements and more information, check out our page on ADN degree programs.
More information on RN diplomas, LPN to RN, and ADN programs:
| Program | Estimated Tuition | Estimated Credits | Online Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADN | $6,000 – $15,000 | 60-72 credits | Limited online courses, primarily on-campus |
| LPN to RN | $4,000 – $10,000 | 30-45 credits | Often hybrid; some online courses |
| RN Diploma | $5,000 – $12,000 | 40-60 credits | Rarely online; primarily on-campus |
ADN, LPN to RN, and nursing diploma programs require hands-on clinical training hours under supervision in order to be eligible for RN licensure. These will need to be completed in person, even if you opt for an online or hybrid program. Not sure if you’re ready for an RN career? Consider an LPN or CNA program in Delaware.
Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs
It’s well-known that a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a good option for nurses who want to invest in more time into their education and they’re often popular amongst students who have plans to eventually get a graduate degree. However, it’s important to note that a traditional BSN will take about 4 years to complete the program. That being said if you already have an RN license (and an ADN), you can get your BSN in as little as 2 years with an RN to BSN program. If you have a bachelor’s degree in a subject other than nursing, you can also take advantage of Accelerated BSN programs which allow you to get your BSN in just a year or two.
Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Delaware typically include:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0
- Completion of prerequisite courses
For more information on BSN admissions requirements and more, see our BSN degrees page.
Several alternative pathways are also available to qualified students who want to pursue a BSN. Compare your options below:
| Program | Length | Estimated Tuition | Entrance Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional BSN | 4 years (120-126 credits) | $20,000 – $50,000 | First-time college students |
| RN to BSN | 1-2 years (30-35 credits) | $10,000 – $20,000 | Licensed RNs with an ADN |
| ABSN | 12-18 months (50-60 credits) | $25,000 – $40,000 | Non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders |
RN to BSN
For RN bridge programs visit:
Four years can be a lot of time to invest in a degree, especially if you’re already working as a nurse. Fortunately, a Delaware RN to BSN serves as a great option for students who have an RN license and an associate’s degree in nursing, allowing working nurses to get their BSN in half the time.
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
In many cases, some students decide to become nurses later in life long after they have already received a bachelor’s degree in another field. Through a Delaware ABSN program these students will be even better positioned to receive their BSN in a faster amount of time, in some cases, only a year.
Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
Nurses in Delaware hoping to advance their careers will find many options to do so in the graduate realm. Whether you are looking for a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program, a bridge program to enter advanced practice, or even a doctorate degree such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), there's a program sure to meet your specific expectations.
Earning a graduate-level degree in nursing opens the door to numerous Advanced Practice Registered Nursing (APRN) roles, leadership roles, and even careers in academia or research. Read more about APRN pathways in Delaware:
- Delaware Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Delaware MSN Program
- Delaware RN to MSN Programs
- Delaware Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
- Delaware DNP Programs
Getting an RN License in Delaware
The licensure process for future nurses in Delaware is not unlike other states; the process begins by passing the NCLEX-RN and submitting an application to the Delaware Board of Nursing with the requested fee. Once licensed, you’ll need to maintain your license through continuing education courses every renewal period.
Requirements for RN Licensure in Delaware
- Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
- Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
- Application to the Delaware Board of Nursing
- Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance
Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?
Arguably the most important thing to keep in mind as you begin your search for the perfect nursing program is RN program accreditation. RN program accreditation ensures that the program meets the state board’s approval. Graduating from a non-accredited nursing program may result in you becoming intelligible for licensure. Accreditation for nursing programs in Delaware and across the country are the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Cities With Nursing Programs in Delaware
Getting a Delaware Nursing License
Delaware state regulations for nursing licensure or by endorsement are as follows:
Application completed with appropriate fees paid, also include the following documentation:
- Completed 'Authorization for release of information' for background check
- Copy of driver's license or ID from the DMV- if no driver's license, submit voter's registration card, federal tax return, military form 2058, or W-2 form
- Transcript sent from the institution directly to the board
- 'Nursing Reference Form' completed by yourself and the institution- sent directly from the school to the board
- Registration for NCLEX-RN examination
Apply for endorsement of licensure can be done by providing the above information, as well as:
- Photocopy of current license
- Verification of successful completion of NCLEX-RN
Accelerated Nursing Programs in Delaware
You may already be on the career path of becoming a nurse, but have you looked beyond graduation? There are options to accelerate your degree or bridge your existing degree with that of a higher degree. The accelerated program is offered as a full-time, on campus, 17-month degree program, and does not recommend working while taking the program, as it is quite intensive and has clinical hours running concurrently. Admission eligibility and tuition are all dependent on meeting the requirements for entrance, as some of the requirements are additional courses that will also affect tuition costs. Tuition is dependent on a variety of factors which can also include housing costs.
List of Nursing Schools in Delaware
Dover, DE
Delaware State University
- Bachelor's - Nursing, BS
Campus Based - Website
- Hands-on experience in simulation labs.
- Accredited by ACEN.
- Prepares for NCLEX licensure.
- Field work in healthcare settings.
- Focus on professional preparation.
New Castle, DE
Wilmington University
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online option available
- Accredited by CCNE
- $1,257 per course
- Flexible formats and locations
- Community learning experiences
- Prepares for graduate studies
- Enhances leadership skills
- Affordable tuition
Newark, DE
University of Delaware
- Bachelor's - Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Top 11% nationwide ranking.
- Four-year campus program.
- Direct MSN admission for 3.0 GPA.
- Hands-on clinical experiences.
- Service-learning opportunities.
- Study abroad options.
- CSIIDEE enhances clinical skills.
- Rigorous academic curriculum.
Latest Articles & Guides
One of the keys to success as a registered nurse is embracing lifelong learning. Our articles and guides address hot topics and current events in nursing, from education to career mobility and beyond. No matter where you are on your nursing journey, there’s an article to help you build your knowledge base.
Browse our latest articles, curated specifically for modern nurses.
