Best Nursing Schools in New Hampshire

2025 Best Nursing Schools in New Hampshire

Finding the best nursing school in New Hampshire is a big step toward a successful nursing career. At registerednursing.org, we've ranked these schools based on their NCLEX-RN pass rates to help you make an informed choice. The NCLEX-RN exam is a crucial test all nurses must pass to get their license, so schools with higher pass rates often provide better preparation. Our rankings focus on these rates because they show how well a school prepares its students for real-world nursing. Choosing a school with a high NCLEX pass rate can give you a stronger start in your nursing career. Learn more about how we rank schools https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/.

#1

Plymouth State University

Plymouth, NH - Public 4-Year - plymouth.edu

Bachelor's - Nursing (BS)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Plymouth State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program designed to equip students with the skills necessary for a successful nursing career. The program, accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, emphasizes patient-centered care, evidence-based practice, and leadership. Students must achieve a B- or higher in all nursing courses and pass clinical components. The curriculum covers essential areas such as microbiology, pharmacology, and provides clinical experiences across various healthcare settings. Admission is competitive, requiring a 3.0 GPA and a strong background in science. Notably, graduates have achieved a 100% employment rate post-graduation and are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program does not require an ACT or SAT for admission, focusing instead on academic performance and a solid science foundation.

• Accredited by CCNE
• B- or higher required
• Includes clinical experiences
• Competitive admission
• 100% employment rate
• Focus on holistic care
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN
• Diverse career opportunities
• Strong science foundation
• Leadership and quality care focus

#2

Saint Anselm College

Manchester, NH - Private 4-year - anselm.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Saint Anselm College, located in Manchester, NH, offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program renowned for its high NCLEX-RN pass rate of 99% for the Class of 2024. This program integrates a robust liberal arts education with a rigorous nursing curriculum, emphasizing critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and communication skills. Students benefit from hands-on clinical experiences at leading regional hospitals and cutting-edge simulation technology training. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, the program is highly selective and prepares graduates for success in various healthcare settings. Notably, it does not require ACT or SAT scores for admission, focusing instead on holistic review criteria.

• 99% NCLEX pass rate
• Hands-on clinical experiences
• Simulation technology training
• Liberal arts foundation
• Ethical decision-making focus
• Effective communication skills
• Accredited by CCNE
• Prepares for diverse healthcare settings
• Located in Manchester, NH

#3

University of New Hampshire-Main Campus

Durham, NH - Public 4-Year - unh.edu

Bachelor's - Nursing Major (B.S.)

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of New Hampshire-Main Campus offers a Nursing Major (B.S.) that stands out for its comprehensive approach to nursing education, blending rigorous academic coursework with extensive clinical practice. Accredited by the CCNE, the program is designed to foster critical thinking and patient-centered care through 814 clinical hours in various healthcare settings. Students benefit from state-of-the-art simulation labs and a curriculum that spans biological sciences, social sciences, and humanities. The program prepares graduates for a wide range of nursing roles and advanced studies, with admission requiring a minimum GPA of 2.5 and prerequisite courses completed with a C or better. Notably, the NCLEX-RN pass rates for graduates are consistently high, reflecting the program's effectiveness in preparing students for the nursing profession.

• Accredited by CCNE.
• Emphasizes evidence-based practices.
• Includes 814 clinical hours.
• State-of-the-art simulation labs.
• Prepares for diverse nursing roles.
• Requires minimum GPA of 2.5.
• Prerequisite courses need C or better.
• Offers Honors-in-Major Program.
• Covers biological, social sciences, humanities.
• Direct clinical experiences included.

#4

Rivier University

Nashua, NH - Private 4-year - rivier.edu

Associate - A.S. in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Rivier University's A.S. in Nursing program stands out in Nashua, NH, for its comprehensive approach to nursing education, blending theoretical knowledge with hands-on clinical experience. Recognized as the top nursing program in New Hampshire, it uniquely offers evening classes and weekend clinical rotations, making it ideal for students balancing work and study. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and communication, preparing graduates not just to pass the NCLEX-RN but to excel in their nursing careers. With advanced simulation labs and strong healthcare partnerships, students gain valuable real-world skills. This program does not require an ACT or SAT for admission, focusing instead on preparing students for immediate success in the healthcare field.

• Evening and weekend options
• Extensive clinical experience
• State-of-the-art simulation labs
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN
• Partnerships with healthcare orgs
• Focus on critical thinking
• Effective communication skills
• Accommodates working students
• Experiential learning approach

#5

Keene State College

Keene, NH - Public 4-Year - keene.edu

Bachelor's - Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Keene State College stands out for its BS in Nursing program, designed to equip students with a solid foundation in clinical care, ethical practices, and global health perspectives. With a remarkable 100% employment rate for graduates as RNs post-NCLEX, the program emphasizes hands-on learning through its state-of-the-art simulation lab and benefits from small class sizes for personalized education. Admission criteria include a high school GPA of 3.25 and 'B' grades in math and science, with progression requiring a 3.4 GPA and 'B' in key sciences. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, it prepares students for a wide range of healthcare careers without the need for an ACT or SAT entrance exam.

• BS in Nursing degree.
• 100% RN employment post-NCLEX.
• State-of-the-art simulation lab.
• Small class sizes.
• Hands-on learning experiences.
• Close faculty mentorship.
• 3.25 high school GPA required.
• 'B' grades in math/science.
• 3.4 progression GPA.
• Accredited by CCNE.

*Data retrieved from: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023.

New Hampshire Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees

Obtaining a degree is a necessary step before you can obtain your RN license. You can choose from several entry-level educational paths, including an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Each option offers distinct benefits and requirements. Below, we'll explore the differences between them to help you determine the best fit for your career goals.

Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs

An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is one of the quickest ways to become a registered nurse, typically requiring about two years of study. Another option is an RN diploma, which is often offered by certain nursing schools or hospitals and can be completed in 1 to 2 years. While ADN programs include a broader range of general education courses, RN diploma programs focus more on core nursing skills. For Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) looking to advance, an LPN to RN bridge program is available, allowing you to earn either an ADN or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). These pathways provide affordable and efficient routes into nursing, as long as you choose an accredited program to ensure your credentials are recognized.

Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in New Hampshire 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:

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 New Hampshire.

Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is considered the most sought-after degree for aspiring nurses. Offered in online, on-campus, and hybrid formats, BSN programs are available through colleges and universities throughout the state. Many healthcare employers in New Hampshire prioritize hiring nurses with a BSN for entry-level RN roles. These programs typically provide both full-time and part-time study options, combining general education courses with specialized nursing curriculum. Regardless of whether you pursue the program online or in a hybrid format, in-person clinical training hours are a mandatory component of the BSN program to ensure hands-on experience.

Admissions requirements for BSN programs in New Hampshire 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:

RN to BSN

If you’re already a licensed RN with an ADN and some experience, you may be able to earn your BSN more quickly. A New Hampshire RN to BSN typically takes around two years to complete, allowing you to build on your existing nursing knowledge and credentials while advancing your education. This accelerated pathway is a great option for working nurses who want to enhance their qualifications and career prospects.

Accelerated BSN (ABSN)

Some nurses choose to pursue their BSN later in their careers, especially if they are transitioning into nursing from another field. If you already hold a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing discipline, you can earn your BSN in as little as a year through a New HampshireABSN program. This fast-track option allows individuals to leverage their previous education while gaining the necessary nursing qualifications to advance in the healthcare field.

Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs

For students in New Hampshire aiming to take their nursing education to the next level, there are numerous advanced degree options available. Whether you’re interested in pursuing 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), you will find a variety of pathways to suit your goals. Keep in mind that most of these programs require applicants to already have a BSN or MSN, possess an active and unencumbered RN license, and meet specific entry criteria set by each program.

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 New Hampshire:

• New Hampshire Nurse Practitioner Programs
• New Hampshire MSN Program
• New Hampshire Accelerated MSN Program
• New Hampshire RN to MSN Programs
• New Hampshire Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
• New Hampshire DNP Programs

Getting an RN License in New Hampshire

After graduating from an accredited nursing program, the next step to becoming a registered nurse in New Hampshire is to obtain your RN license. The process is simple: you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam and submit an application to the New Hampshire Board of Nursing. Once you’re licensed, you'll be required to complete continuing education courses for each license renewal to maintain your credentials and stay current with nursing practices.

Requirements for RN Licensure in New Hampshire

• Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
• Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
• Application to the New Hampshire Board of Nursing
• Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance

Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?

RN program accreditation is a formal process that verifies a nursing school or program meets the necessary standards for licensure as set by the state nursing board. In the United States, the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) are the primary accrediting bodies. In New Hampshire, nursing programs typically seek accreditation from one or both of these organizations to ensure they meet national educational standards. It’s essential for students to choose an accredited RN program, as this guarantees eligibility for licensure, future educational opportunities, and employment in the nursing field.