Best Nursing Schools in Virginia

Longwood University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program designed to cultivate citizen leaders in the nursing field. Located in Farmville, VA, this campus-based program emphasizes a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical clinical experiences, with a strong focus on patient advocacy, healthcare navigation, and enhancing community health. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the program is tailored to adapt to the evolving healthcare landscape. Prospective students should note that while the program boasts competitive admission requirements, it does not explicitly require ACT or SAT scores for entry. The curriculum is enriched with service-learning and professional advocacy opportunities, preparing graduates to make significant contributions to healthcare. The program's NCLEX-RN pass rates are commendable, reflecting its effectiveness in equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge for successful nursing careers.

• Accredited by CCNE.
• Focus on citizen leadership.
• Combines theory and clinical work.
• Service-learning integrated.
• Prepares for healthcare advocacy.
• Meets changing healthcare needs.
• Competitive admission requirements.
• Hands-on clinical experiences.
• Community health focus.
• Professional advocacy opportunities.

Averett University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program stands out for its commitment to preparing students for the NCLEX-RN and beyond, with a focus on resilience and leadership in nursing. Located in Danville, VA, this Baptist-affiliated, military-friendly institution offers small class sizes for personalized attention, ensuring students are well-prepared for the challenges of modern healthcare. The program boasts a faculty of experienced educators and practitioners, providing hands-on clinical experiences at top healthcare facilities. While the NCLEX-RN pass rate is a testament to the program's effectiveness, prospective students should note that entrance exams like the ACT or SAT are required for admission. This program is ideal for those aiming for advanced practice degrees, emphasizing lifelong learning and excellence in nursing.

• Personalized attention in small classes.
• Hands-on clinical experiences arranged.
• Faculty of leading educators and practitioners.
• Prepares for advanced practice degrees.
• Emphasis on resilience and leadership.

Virginia Western Community College offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing, designed to equip students with the skills needed for a successful career as a registered nurse. This program emphasizes patient-centered care, ethical practices, and cultural sensitivity, preparing graduates for diverse healthcare environments. With a curriculum that blends classroom instruction, lab work, and clinical experiences, students gain comprehensive hands-on training. The program is accredited by ACEN and fully approved by the Virginia Board of Nursing, ensuring high-quality education. Notably, it boasts a strong NCLEX-RN pass rate, reflecting the program's effectiveness in preparing students for licensure. Admission does not require an ACT or SAT, making it accessible to a wide range of students. Graduates enjoy competitive wages in the Roanoke Valley, with opportunities in various healthcare settings.

• Pre-licensure RN program.
• Affordable community access.
• Hands-on clinical training.
• High NCLEX-RN pass rate.
• Strong employment outcomes.
• Patient-centered care focus.
• Ethical and cultural respect.
• Accredited by ACEN.
• Full Virginia Board approval.
• 65 credit hours.

Old Dominion University offers a competitive Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Prelicensure Program designed for those aspiring to enter the nursing profession. This five-semester program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills through hands-on clinical experiences in state-of-the-art simulation labs and community health settings. With a notable 100% employment rate for graduates, the program is tailored for high school graduates, career changers, and individuals with associate's degrees. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and completion of prerequisite courses, with tuition costs varying by residency. Virginia residents benefit from a rate of $408 per credit, while military personnel enjoy a reduced rate of $250 per credit. The program's small class sizes and active student nurses association enhance the learning experience, preparing students for success on the NCLEX-RN and beyond.

• Five-semester program.
• Small clinical sections.
• State-of-the-art simulation center.
• 100% employment rate.
• Community health clinical experiences.
• Active student nurses association.
• Study abroad opportunities.
• Clinical placements in area hospitals.
• Competitive admission process.
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required.

The University of Virginia-Main Campus offers a 3-Year BSN Transfer Program, ideal for students transferring from other institutions or within UVA. This accelerated program spans six semesters, totaling 120 credits, and includes early clinical experience starting in the second year. With a strong emphasis on interprofessional education, students collaborate with medical peers and have opportunities for international study in Australia or New Zealand. Prerequisites include courses in microbiology, chemistry, and human anatomy. The program boasts a high NCLEX pass rate, preparing graduates effectively for licensure. Tuition varies by residency, with additional fees for clinical services and labs.

• 3-year BSN program.
• 120-credit curriculum.
• Hands-on clinical experience.
• Study abroad options.
• Interprofessional education focus.
• Prerequisites required.
• Tuition varies by residency.
• Additional clinical fees.
• NCLEX exam preparation.
• World-class professors.

University of Virginia-Main Campus's RN to BSN Hybrid Program caters to working nurses aiming to elevate their careers through a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This part-time, hybrid format combines online coursework with monthly in-person sessions, allowing completion in two years. It focuses on leadership, research, and advanced nursing practices, with a competitive tuition rate for Virginia residents. Admission requires an unencumbered RN license and prerequisite completion. The program is renowned for its high NCLEX pass rates and is a stepping stone for those eyeing graduate studies or higher healthcare roles.

• Virginia's #1 nursing program
• Hybrid program format
• Part-time, two-year completion
• Monthly in-person classes
• Three Virginia locations
• Peer mentoring system
• World-class faculty
• Ample scholarships available
• 6 in 10 students paid $0 tuition
• $19,203 total program cost

The Accelerated BSN program at the University of Virginia-Main Campus is tailored for individuals with two years of college coursework but no bachelor's degree. This rigorous two-year program, including two summer sessions, covers 120 credits and emphasizes diverse patient care and interprofessional collaboration. Admission demands 52 general education credits and specific prerequisites, with applications due by October 1 for a May start. The program is known for its high NCLEX pass rates, preparing students for immediate entry into the nursing profession. Tuition varies by residency, with additional fees for clinical and lab courses.

• Two-year full-time program.
• 120 credits total.
• Includes two summer sessions.
• Starts in May.
• Requires 52 general education credits.
• Specific prerequisite courses needed.
• Application deadline October 1.
• Competitive admissions.
• Clinical experience included.
• Prepares for NCLEX exam.

Mary Baldwin University offers an RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program exclusively online, catering to registered nurses aiming to elevate their professional standing. This program stands out for its affordability at $333.33 per credit hour and the ability to complete it within a year, making it an excellent choice for working nurses. It emphasizes nursing leadership, community health, and evidence-based practice, preparing graduates for advanced roles and higher salaries. Admission requires an ADN, a current RN license, and relevant work experience, with no mention of ACT or SAT requirements, aligning with its target demographic of already licensed nurses. The program's accreditation by CCNE and its flexible online format ensure quality education tailored to busy professionals.

• Online format for flexibility
• Complete in 1 year
• Affordable $333.33 per credit
• ADN and RN license required
• Focus on nursing leadership
• Community health practicum
• Evidence-based practice focus
• Small class sizes
• Dedicated faculty support
• Prepares for higher salaries

The University of Virginia's College at Wise offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program that stands out for its exceptional NCLEX-RN pass rates, ranging from 85.8% to 100% over five years. This campus-based program is designed for students aiming for initial RN licensure through its Pre-Licensure track or for working nurses seeking advancement via the online RN to BSN track. With an average class size of 17, students benefit from personalized attention in a supportive community. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and boasts a 100% employment rate for its 2022 graduates, alongside the advantage of low to no student debt.

• 85.8-100% NCLEX pass rate
• 17 average class size
• 100% employment rate
• Low to no student debt
• Two study tracks available
• Accredited by CCNE
• Pre-Licensure Program
• Online RN to BSN Program
• Small, supportive community
• Liberal arts foundation

For registered nurses looking to further their education, the University of Virginia's College at Wise provides an RN to BSN Online Program. This flexible, fully online program is perfect for working nurses, offering the ability to complete studies in two to four semesters. With tuition set at $5,890 per semester for 12-18 hours and financial aid available, it's an affordable option for advancing in the nursing field. The curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for advanced practice nursing or graduate studies, making it an ideal choice for those aiming to enhance their career opportunities without sacrificing their current employment.

• Fully online program.
• Tuition $5,890 per semester.
• Financial aid available.
• Complete in 2-4 semesters.
• Prepares for graduate studies.

Mountain Gateway Community College in Clifton Forge, VA, provides an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) designed for students aiming to quickly enter the nursing field. This campus-based program spans four semesters of full-time study, emphasizing both practical skills and theoretical knowledge to ensure graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program is accredited by the Virginia Board of Nursing and is known for its strong NCLEX-RN pass rates, reflecting the quality of education provided. While the program does not require an ACT or SAT for admission, applicants must meet specific academic criteria. Financial aid and scholarships are available to eligible students, making this program accessible to a wide range of aspiring nurses. Additionally, articulation agreements with universities offer pathways for further education.

• Four-semester full-time program.
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
• Accredited by Virginia Board of Nursing.
• Strong NCLEX-RN pass rates.
• Financial aid options available.
• Campus-based learning.
• Articulation agreements with universities.
• Practical and theoretical focus.
• Admissions criteria apply.
• Ideal for career changers.

Tidewater Community College offers an Associate Degree in Nursing designed to equip students with the skills needed for a successful RN career. The program spans four semesters, requiring 64 credits, and features state-of-the-art simulation labs and small class sizes for personalized learning. Admission is competitive, with spring and fall application cycles, and includes options for LPN to RN transitions. Accredited by the ACEN, the program emphasizes hands-on patient care training with dedicated faculty support, preparing graduates for the NCLEX-RN and beyond. Notably, the program does not require an ACT or SAT for admission, focusing instead on a comprehensive nursing education.

• Four semesters program length
• 64 credits required
• State-of-the-art simulation labs
• Small class sizes
• Competitive admission process
• LPN to RN transition available
• ACEN accredited
• Hands-on patient care training
• Flexible admission cycles
• Dedicated faculty support

Randolph-Macon College in Ashland, VA, provides a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that stands out for its direct entry option for freshmen, allowing students to dive into nursing courses from their first year. This CCNE-accredited program boasts a curriculum that integrates early clinical rotations beginning in the sophomore year, hands-on experiences in advanced facilities, and a strong focus on clinical decision-making to ensure readiness for the NCLEX-RN exam. With small cohort sizes, students benefit from personalized attention and a modern simulation center for realistic skills labs. The program reports a 100% employment rate post-graduation, highlighting its effectiveness in preparing students for successful nursing careers. Notably, the program does not require an ACT or SAT for admission, making it accessible to a broader range of students. The NCLEX pass rate is a testament to the program's quality, though specific rates should be verified for the most current data.

• Direct entry for freshmen.
• CCNE-accredited program.
• 500 direct care hours.
• Clinical rotations start sophomore year.
• Small cohort sizes.
• State-of-the-art facilities.
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
• Combines classroom and clinical learning.
• Personalized academic experience.
• Focus on clinical decision-making.

Norfolk State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that stands out for its comprehensive curriculum and dedication to student success. Accredited by the ACEN, this program is designed for those aiming to excel in the nursing field, featuring both traditional and RN to BSN tracks. With a requirement of 121 credit hours, students engage in hands-on clinical experiences and benefit from state-of-the-art simulation labs under the guidance of doctoral-level faculty. The program boasts a 100% job placement rate and prepares students thoroughly for the NCLEX-RN exam, ensuring they are ready to meet the demands of diverse healthcare environments. Entrance exams such as the ACT or SAT are required for admission, aligning with the program's commitment to academic excellence.

• Accredited by ACEN
• 121 total credit hours
• Hands-on clinical labs
• Doctoral-level faculty
• NCLEX-RN preparation
• 100% job placement rate
• Traditional and RN to BSN tracks
• State-of-the-art simulation labs
• Small class sizes
• Diverse clinical settings

George Mason University's RN to BSN Program stands out for its fully online format, catering to registered nurses aiming to elevate their qualifications with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Tailored for efficiency, the program can be completed in as little as two full-time semesters, offering unparalleled flexibility for working professionals. It focuses on equipping students with the practical skills and knowledge necessary for leadership positions in the healthcare sector. Admission is streamlined for US-based RNs holding a valid license, with no mention of ACT or SAT requirements. The online nature of the program not only facilitates a balance between studies and personal commitments but also potentially reduces costs associated with traditional campus-based education. For those interested, verifying the latest tuition details on the university's website is recommended.

• Fully online format
• Complete in two semesters
• For US-based RNs
• Flexible for working professionals
• Prepares for leadership roles

Piedmont Virginia Community College provides an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing, designed to equip students with the necessary skills for RN licensure via the NCLEX-RN Examination. This program, part of the G3 initiative, could offer students free tuition, fees, and books, making nursing education more accessible. With a curriculum centered around direct patient care, students must meet clinical compliance standards, including background checks and immunizations. The program is accredited by the Virginia Board of Nursing and ACEN, reflecting its commitment to quality education. It is known for its high NCLEX pass rates and impressive job placement success. Admission is competitive, with specific criteria for eligibility and ranking.

• G3 program eligibility.
• NCLEX-RN Exam preparation.
• Accredited by ACEN.
• High job placement rates.
• Competitive admissions process.
• Clinical compliance required.
• 67 credit hours.
• Campus-based program.
• Strong NCLEX pass rates.
• Direct patient care focus.