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.
2027 Best Nursing Schools in Delaware
Yearly Pass Rate Trends
Statewide average pass rates improved from 81.24% in 2022 to 93.51% in 2024, indicating strong program effectiveness.
- 2022: 81.24% average pass rate (581 students)
- 2023: 92.19% average pass rate (589 students)
- 2024: 93.51% average pass rate (524 students)
Top Performing Schools
These three schools consistently achieved the highest average pass rates across all years, with at least 20 students tested.
- Margaret H Rollins School of Nursing at Beebe Medical Center: 98.69% average pass rate (76 students)
- Delaware Technical Community College-Terry: 94.24% average pass rate (243 students)
- University of Delaware: 89.92% average pass rate (516 students)
Pass Rate by Program Size
Larger programs (over 100 students per year) posted the strongest average pass rates, while medium-sized programs had slightly lower performance.
- Small (<50 students/year): 100% pass rate (22 students)
- Medium (50-100): 91.4% pass rate (221 students)
- Large (>100): 96.13% pass rate (155 students)
Biggest Improvements
Several Delaware schools showed substantial gains in pass rates over the study period, with the University of Delaware leading.
- University of Delaware: +16.61 percentage points (79.52% to 96.13%)
- Delaware Technical Community College-Central Office: +12.90 (78.97% to 91.87%)
- Delaware State University: +8.36 (76.12% to 84.48%)
Consistently High Performing Schools
Schools with at least two years of data and average pass rates above 90% demonstrate sustained excellence.
- Margaret H Rollins School of Nursing at Beebe Medical Center: 98.69% average (3 years)
- Delaware Technical Community College-Terry: 94.24% average (3 years)
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 Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a four-year, campus-based program designed for students who want to become Registered Nurses. Ranked in the top 6% of undergraduate nursing programs nationwide, it offers direct entry for freshmen, so you start nursing courses from day one. The curriculum combines rigorous coursework with hands-on clinical experiences, mentored by practicing nurses. Students benefit from the state-of-the-art Center for Simulation Innovation, which builds critical decision-making skills. Service-learning, study abroad, and undergraduate research are embedded in the program, along with community engagement through the student-founded organization Lori's Hands. For those seeking deeper study, the Nursing Honors program is available. Graduates with a 3.0 GPA receive guaranteed admission to the Master of Science in Nursing, with waived application fees. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring a high-quality education that prepares you for leadership in healthcare.
- CCNE accredited
- 4-Year program
- Complete in four-year program
- Top 6% nursing program nationwide
- Direct entry for freshmen
- Service-learning and study abroad
- State-of-the-art simulation center
- Community engagement through Lori's Hands
- Nursing Honors program available
- Guaranteed admission to MSN for qualified graduates
Delaware State University
Dover, DE - Public 4-Year - desu.edu
Bachelor's - Nursing, BS
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Delaware State University prepares students for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam and a career as a registered nurse. The curriculum blends classroom learning with extensive hands-on training in simulation labs and real-world clinical settings at public clinics, schools, and assisted-living facilities. Students benefit from small class sizes and close mentorship from experienced faculty who combine professional expertise with academic insight. The program is accredited by the ACEN and approved by the Delaware Board of Nursing, ensuring high educational standards. Graduates are ready for entry-level nursing positions in diverse healthcare environments. Beyond academics, students can join the Student Nurses Association and qualify for Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society. This program offers a supportive, community-focused path to a rewarding nursing career.
- ACEN accredited
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Real-world clinical experience
- Hands-on simulation labs
- Faculty mentorship
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- ACEN accreditation
- Approved by Delaware Board of Nursing
- Sigma Theta Tau membership
- Student Nurses Association
Wilmington University
New Castle, DE - Private 4-year - wilmu.edu
Bachelor's - Nursing (RN To BSN)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Wilmington University’s RN to BSN program helps registered nurses build on their clinical experience and prepare for greater responsibility in today’s complex healthcare environment. The curriculum emphasizes communication, leadership, critical thinking, and problem-solving, with community learning experiences that let students give back while growing professionally. Students can choose online, traditional classroom, or hybrid formats, and many complete the 15-course program in about 18 months while working. The degree also provides a foundation for graduate study, and a dual-credit advantage allows electives to count toward a future MSN. Graduates are ready for roles such as clinical nurse manager and other positions across diverse healthcare settings, supported by a program accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 18-Month program
- 15 total courses
- Classes start every 8 weeks
- Online and classroom options available
- Accelerated BSN to MSN pathway
- Community learning experiences included
- Pay only for courses needed
- BSN enables nurse manager roles
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
See Related Articles
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
- ACEN accredited
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Real-world clinical experience
- Hands-on simulation labs
- Faculty mentorship
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- ACEN accreditation
- Approved by Delaware Board of Nursing
New Castle, DE
Wilmington University
- Bachelor's - Nursing (RN To BSN)
Online Learning - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 18-Month program
- 15 total courses
- Classes start every 8 weeks
- Online and classroom options available
- Accelerated BSN to MSN pathway
- Community learning experiences included
- Pay only for courses needed
Newark, DE
University of Delaware
- Bachelor's - Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- 4-Year program
- Complete in four-year program
- Top 6% nursing program nationwide
- Direct entry for freshmen
- Service-learning and study abroad
- State-of-the-art simulation center
- Community engagement through Lori's Hands
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