Best Nursing Schools in North Carolina

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program, tailored for individuals holding a bachelor's degree in another field who aspire to transition into nursing. This intensive, campus-based program is renowned for its rigorous curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with extensive clinical practice, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam. Admission is competitive, requiring prerequisite courses and a strong GPA, but no ACT or SAT scores are needed for this second-degree program. With a focus on producing highly skilled nurses, the program boasts an impressive NCLEX-RN pass rate, reflecting its commitment to excellence in nursing education. Financial aid options are available, making this accelerated path to nursing accessible to a diverse group of students.

• 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

Central Piedmont Community College in Charlotte, NC, provides an Associate Degree in Nursing that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam with a strong emphasis on safety, quality care, and evidence-based practice. The program's curriculum is comprehensive, covering essential healthcare domains and offering hands-on clinical experience. Admission requirements include high school and any applicable college transcripts, along with meeting GPA and test score criteria. Students should also budget for additional expenses like uniforms, immunizations, and background checks. Accredited by ACEN and approved by the NC Board of Nursing, this program stands out for its focus on holistic care and dynamic healthcare training, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the nursing profession.

• Accredited by ACEN.
• Approved by NC Board of Nursing.
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
• Comprehensive nursing curriculum.
• Hands-on clinical experience.
• Requires high school transcripts.
• GPA and test score prerequisites.
• Additional costs for uniforms.
• Immunizations required.
• Background checks mandatory.

The University of North Carolina at Greensboro's RN to BSN program stands out for its fully online format, designed for registered nurses seeking career advancement without sacrificing their current roles. Emphasizing flexibility, the program requires no campus visits, making it ideal for working professionals. Students can complete the program in as little as 12 months, benefiting from affordable tuition, financial aid options, and dedicated academic advisor support. The curriculum focuses on enhancing clinical skills and preparing nurses for leadership positions, with a strong emphasis on further academic opportunities. While the program does not require an ACT or SAT for admission, its innovative approach to nursing education is reflected in its commendable NCLEX-RN pass rates, showcasing the program's effectiveness in preparing graduates for the challenges of modern healthcare.

• 100% online program.
• Flexible for working nurses.
• No campus visits required.
• Affordable tuition rates.
• Financial aid available.
• Complete in 12 months.
• Academic advisor support.
• Enhances clinical skills.
• Prepares for leadership roles.
• Supports further academic pursuits.

Edgecombe Community College provides an Associate Degree in Nursing program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam, a critical step towards becoming a registered nurse. This program stands out for its comprehensive curriculum that blends evidence-based practice with a focus on holistic patient care. Students gain hands-on experience in utilizing technology and informatics in nursing, preparing them for the evolving healthcare landscape. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary teamwork and quality improvement, equipping graduates with the skills needed for diverse healthcare settings. Prospective students should note the admissions checklist requirement, ensuring a smooth application process. With a strong emphasis on professional development, graduates are well-prepared to meet the challenges of modern nursing.

• Campus-based program.
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN.
• Focus on holistic care.
• Emphasizes evidence-based practice.
• Interdisciplinary teamwork focus.
• Includes technology and informatics.
• Diverse healthcare career opportunities.
• Professional growth emphasis.
• Admissions checklist required.

Wayne Community College in Goldsboro, NC, provides an Associate Degree Nursing program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam through a combination of rigorous coursework and practical clinical experiences. The program emphasizes critical thinking and patient-centered care, ensuring graduates are ready to meet the demands of various healthcare environments. Admission is competitive, with prerequisites including a minimum grade of C in curriculum courses, recent high school or college Chemistry, and completion of health screenings. Accredited by ACEN, this program is known for its high NCLEX pass rates and the strong demand for its graduates in the healthcare sector.

• Campus-based program.
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
• Competitive admission process.
• Requires Chemistry within 10 years.
• Health screenings mandatory.
• Focus on critical thinking.
• Hands-on clinical practice.
• Diverse healthcare settings.
• High demand for graduates.
• Accredited by ACEN.

The University of North Carolina Wilmington's online RN-BSN program is tailored for licensed RNs aiming to elevate their careers. This program stands out for its flexibility, offering six start dates a year and the possibility to graduate in just 12 months. It's designed to prepare nurses for the evolving demands of healthcare, with a special focus on caring for the aging population. The curriculum is delivered by seasoned faculty, ensuring students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Notably, the program does not require an entrance exam, making it accessible for busy professionals. Graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN, with the program boasting a strong pass rate indicative of its quality education.

• Accelerated online format
• Degree in 12 months
• Six annual start dates
• For licensed RNs
• Prepares for graduate education
• Experienced faculty
• Focus on aging population care
• Continuous admission process
• Real-world nursing experience
• High demand healthcare roles

For those with a bachelor's degree looking to transition into nursing, the University of North Carolina Wilmington offers an Accelerated BSN program. This campus-based program is intensive, completed in four semesters, and combines rigorous academics with extensive clinical practice. It's designed to ready students for the NCLEX-RN exam and a variety of nursing careers, emphasizing patient-centered care and continuous improvement. Admission prerequisites include a previous bachelor's degree and specific courses, but no entrance exam is required. The program's focus on real-world experience and its comprehensive curriculum contribute to its high NCLEX-RN pass rates, preparing graduates for success in the nursing field.

• Four semesters to completion
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
• For bachelor's degree holders
• Emphasizes client-centered care
• Includes hands-on clinical experiences
• Rigorous coursework
• Focus on quality improvement
• Lifelong learning approach
• Diverse nursing roles preparation
• Specific prerequisite courses required

Piedmont Community College's Associate Degree Nursing program stands out for its comprehensive approach to nursing education, focusing on preparing students for the NCLEX-RN exam through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical clinical experience. Located in Roxboro, NC, the program emphasizes nursing care, management, and the importance of interdisciplinary teamwork. It requires applicants to have a high school diploma, demonstrate proficiency in math and English, and complete a Certified Nurse Aide I program. The program offers flexibility with full-time and evening/weekend cohort options, catering to students with varying schedules. Financial aid and scholarships are available for those who qualify, making nursing education more accessible.

• Associate Degree Nursing program
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
• Hands-on training included
• Clinical experience provided
• Full-time and evening options
• High school diploma required
• Math and English proficiency needed
• CNA I program completion
• Covers nursing care and management
• Interdisciplinary teamwork focus

North Carolina Central University offers an Accelerated B.S.N. program tailored for individuals holding a prior bachelor's degree, aiming to transition into nursing swiftly. This rigorous 14-15 month program is campus-based, requiring a minimum 3.2 GPA and completion of prerequisite courses for admission. It stands out for its full-time cohort model, hands-on clinical experience across diverse healthcare settings, and a competitive admissions process that includes the TEAS exam. Notably, the program does not offer online options or part-time study, emphasizing a fast-paced, immersive learning environment. Graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN, with the program's structure designed to foster critical thinking and leadership in high-tech healthcare environments. Additional requirements include CPR certification, background checks, and drug screening, ensuring students meet professional standards upon entry.

• 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.
• Competitive admissions process.
• Mandatory orientation session.

Pfeiffer University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program specializes in Critical Care Nursing, offering a comprehensive four-year curriculum that integrates general education with specialized nursing courses. This campus-based program is designed for students aiming to excel in critical care settings, featuring hands-on clinical experiences and small class sizes for personalized mentorship. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, it prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam and leadership roles in nursing. Admission requires prerequisite courses, an application through NursingCAS, and an ATI TEAS test, with a February 1 deadline for sophomore applicants. The program boasts a strong NCLEX pass rate, reflecting its rigorous preparation.

• Four-year program duration.
• Critical Care Nursing concentration.
• Campus-based learning.
• Hands-on clinical experiences.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN licensure.
• Small class sizes.
• Mentorship from faculty.
• Generalist patient-centered care focus.
• Diverse clinical placement sites.

At Pfeiffer University, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) with a Pediatric Nursing concentration equips students for specialized care in pediatric settings. This four-year program combines theoretical knowledge with practical clinical experiences, focusing on patient-centered care across diverse populations. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, it ensures graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam. Applicants must complete general education and prerequisite courses, with a February 1 deadline for upper-division nursing program applications. The program's emphasis on small class sizes and a blend of theory and practical skills fosters a supportive learning environment for aspiring pediatric nurses.

• Four-year program duration.
• Campus-based learning.
• Pediatric Nursing concentration.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• Requires NCLEX-RN for licensure.
• Clinical experiences included.
• Application deadline February 1.
• Prepares for diverse nursing careers.
• Small class sizes for personalized attention.
• Combines theory and practical skills.

North Carolina A&T State University's online RN to BSN program is tailored for registered nurses aiming to elevate their professional trajectory. With a curriculum that emphasizes leadership and advanced nursing competencies, this program stands out for its flexibility, allowing students to transfer up to 56 semester hours and awarding 34 proficiency credits for those with an Associate degree and an active RN license. Admission prerequisites include an Associate in Arts or Science in Nursing, a valid RN license in North Carolina or a compact state, and adherence to the university's GPA standards. Notably, the program accommodates working nurses by permitting the completion of up to three general education courses after enrollment. While specific NCLEX-RN pass rates are not mentioned, the program's focus on enhancing nursing knowledge and skills suggests a strong foundation for exam success.

• Online program flexibility
• 120 semester hours for graduation
• 56 transferable semester hours
• 34 proficiency credits awarded
• Current RN license required
• Associate degree prerequisite
• GPA meets university requirements
• Up to 3 general education courses post-enrollment
• Criminal background check required
• 12 Panel Drug-Screen

Gardner-Webb University offers an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program designed to equip students with the skills needed for a successful nursing career. This two-year, on-campus program emphasizes clinical proficiency intertwined with Christian principles, providing hands-on experience through partnerships with local healthcare providers. Students engage in 72 credit hours of coursework, 42 of which are dedicated to nursing, learning evidence-based practices and compassionate patient care. The program prepares graduates to excel in the NCLEX-RN, with a curriculum that fosters collaboration and critical thinking. Financial aid is available, and the program supports seamless transitions to BSN programs, along with an Advanced Placement option for LPNs.

• 2-year program
• On-campus learning
• 72 credit hours
• 42 nursing credits
• Christian values integration
• Real-world clinical hours
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN
• Financial aid available
• Focus on compassionate care
• Evidence-based practices

Queens University of Charlotte offers an Accelerated Bachelor's in Nursing (ABSN) program tailored for those holding a bachelor's degree or seniors close to graduation with at least 90 credit hours. This rigorous one-year program, divided into three semesters, emphasizes hands-on clinical training and is supported by expert faculty to ensure students are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam and their future nursing careers. The program stands out for its real-world healthcare experience, aiming to quickly transition students into impactful nursing roles. Admissions are competitive, requiring a minimum 3.0 GPA, completion of prerequisite courses, and a TEAS exam. Financial aid options and a high job placement rate add to the program's appeal, making it a strong choice for aspiring nurses in North Carolina.

• 61 credit hours
• One-year completion
• Campus-based program
• Financial aid available
• Strong job placement
• Hands-on clinical training
• Expert faculty support
• NCLEX preparation
• For bachelor's degree holders
• 90 credit hours minimum

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College's Associate Degree Nursing program is a campus-based course that equips students with the skills for a nursing career, emphasizing safety, quality care, and evidence-based practice. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam, with the program boasting national accreditation and approval by the North Carolina Board of Nursing. The curriculum includes comprehensive healthcare and nursing domains, with prerequisites like Anatomy and Physiology I and II. Admission is selective, requiring general college criteria and specific high school units, offering graduates diverse healthcare opportunities.

• Nationally accredited program.
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
• Focus on safety and quality care.
• Emphasizes evidence-based practice.
• Covers healthcare and nursing domains.
• Requires Anatomy and Physiology I and II.
• Selective admission process.
• Approved by NC Board of Nursing.
• Diverse healthcare career opportunities.
• Curriculum includes holistic care.

The LPN to ADN Advanced Placement program at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College is tailored for licensed practical nurses aiming to advance to an Associate Degree in Nursing. This program prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam, focusing on evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and informatics, alongside practical clinical experiences. Admission requires a current LPN license, completion of prerequisite courses, and meeting health and certification standards, paving the way for diverse healthcare employment opportunities.

• Campus-based program
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
• Focus on evidence-based practice
• Hands-on clinical experiences
• Requires current LPN license
• Prerequisite courses needed
• Health and certification requirements
• Diverse employment opportunities
• Quality improvement focus
• Informatics in nursing care

Mars Hill University offers a Traditional, Pre-Licensure BSN Program that stands out for its integration of liberal arts with nursing education, fostering critical thinking and professional growth. With a requirement of a 3.0 GPA for admission, the program is rigorous, preparing students for the NCLEX-RN through a curriculum that emphasizes health promotion, cultural sensitivity, and hands-on clinical experience. Although the NCLEX-RN pass rate is not specified, the program's focus on interdisciplinary communication and clinical judgment equips graduates for successful nursing careers in North Carolina. Admission does not explicitly require an ACT or SAT, but health and background checks are mandatory.

• 3.0 GPA required.
• Focus on liberal arts.
• Emphasizes critical thinking.
• Hands-on clinical experience.
• Requires health checks.
• Background check needed.
• Prepares for nursing careers.
• Located in North Carolina.
• Interdisciplinary communication focus.
• Cultural sensitivity training.