Beginning your career as a registered nurse in the state of Virginia couldn't come at a more opportune time. According to the Virginia Nurses Association, there is a nursing shortage in the state; needless to say, registered nurses are in high demand. With an average salary of roughly $76,680 (according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics), a career in registered nursing that is both rewarding and lucrative can be a reality in Virginia.

For RN bridge programs visit:

Cities in Virginia

Best RN Programs in Virginia

Selecting the best nursing school in Virginia can be difficult. To make the process easier first look for a school that supports students towards licensure and beyond. A great way to measure this is through NCLEX-RN "pass rates." We have ranked the top 20 nursing schools in Virginia by analyzing current and historical NCLEX-RN "pass rates", meaning the percentage of graduates who pass the exam, out of the 67 RN programs in the state. Programs reviewed include schools that offer an Associate in Nursing (ADN/ASN), BSN, or Direct-Entry MSN Degree.

For more information on our top nursing school rankings, see our Methodology Page (https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/).

1.

801 E Main St, Radford, VA 24142

Score: 98.53

Radford University is located in the beautiful namesake town of Radford, just west of Roanoke. The campus boasts a newly constructed building that houses an exceptional BSN program, offering state-of-the art technology, simulation labs, and seasoned faculty.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (540) 831-5000
2.

109 Campus Dr, Alberta, VA 23821

Score: 97.32

Students enrolled in Southside Virginia Community College - Alberta's ADN program are given five core values to focus on throughout the education process, including patient-centered care, professional identity, nursing judgment, collaboration, and safe and effective care. These values are what make SVCC nursing graduates an exceptional addition to the healthcare field.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (434) 949-1000
3.

201 High St, Farmville, VA 23909

Score: 97.28

Longwood University, located in Farmville, offers an excellent BSN program designed to create the next generation of nursing leaders. The curriculum blends classroom theory, laboratory work, and clinical experiences to give students a well-rounded educational base for career excellence.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (434) 395-2000
4.

800 S Main St, Harrisonburg, VA 22807

Score: 95.95

James Madison University in Harrisonburg has a respected BSN nursing program that sees graduates flourish in the nursing profession. Students get the benefits of classroom lectures, skills labs, a hands-on practicum, and faculty interaction. With cohorts of no more than 90 students, JMU is able to focus on personalized attention.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (540) 568-6211
5.

1971 University Blvd, Lynchburg, VA 24515

Score: 95.43

Liberty University in Lynchburg centers its nursing programs on the Patricia Benner framework, as well as high Christian standards. Theoretical and practical teachings are viewed as a 'ministry of caring' and are carried over to professional standards upon entering the nursing field.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (434) 582-2519
6.

253 Town Center Drive, Suite 1035, Virginia Beach, VA 23462

Score: 94.79

Hampton University - College of Virginia Beach offers state-of-the art facilities, immersion into real world situations, and experience in a wide variety of settings. Since the college's inception in 2003, it has become one of leading edge institutions, with graduates that become licensed and who are then readily accepted in the nursing profession.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (757) 637-2200
7.

225 Jeanette Lancaster Way, Charlottesville, VA 22903

Score: 94.64

The University of Virginia at Charlottesville's nursing programs, including its traditional BSN offering, are committed to teaching nurses to prioritize compassionate care and adapt to the changes of the healthcare system. Clinical practice, theory, and simulations are all designed to transition graduates to the nursing profession.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN, MSN
  • Phone: (434) 924-2743
8.

8550 Magellan Pkwy, Richmond, VA 23227

Score: 94.56

Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing in Richmond, Virginia offers an excellent BSN program pathway. Small class sizes, modern technology in simulation labs, and theoretical/practical elements that are all taught by dedicated experienced faculty are just a few highlights.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (804) 627-5300
9.

1460 University Drive, Winchester, VA 22601

Score: 94.54

Shenandoah University's Winchester campus is home to a popular traditional BSN program. This 4-year, direct admittance pathway teaches students through classroom learning, specialized nursing labs, and hands-on experiences with renowned clinical preceptors.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (540) 665-4581
10.

100 E Queen St, Hampton, VA 23668

Score: 94.42

Hampton University's School of Nursing offers a 4-year traditional BSN program. Students complete a total of 123 credits, including coursework in Foundations of Nursing, Adult Health Nursing, Leadership & Management in Nursing, and many others. Graduates are prepared for gainful employment in the medical field.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (757) 727-5251
11.

108 N Jefferson St, Roanoke, VA 24016

Score: 92.72

The BSN programs offered at Radford University's Roanoke Higher Education Center are delivered by experienced, supportive faculty that practice under four basic concepts. Healthcare revolves around client, environment, health, and nursing; graduates are able to confidently execute these values.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (540) 767-6190
12.

1441 Crossways Blvd, Chesapeake, VA 23320

Score: 92.08

Sentara College of Health Sciences in Chesapeake has over 100 years of experience bringing extraordinary nursing professionals into the community. The BSN program exposes students to a variety of challenges and practices and includes 900 hours of hands-on experiences to give grads the real-world skills they need to succeed.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (757) 388-2900
13.

2807 N Glebe Rd, Arlington, VA 22207

Score: 92.03

Arlington's Marymount University provides students with a traditional 4-year BSN program, as well as an accelerated 2nd-degree BSN option. These programs emphasize patient-centered care through laboratory and clinical experiences taught by knowledgeable faculty members.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (703) 284-1500
14.

2130 Germanna Highway, Locust Grove, VA 22508

Score: 91.29

Germanna Community College offers a 2-year associate's degree in nursing program that focuses on professional, patient-centered nursing care. Graduates go on to careers in hospitals, medical facilities, and more.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (540) 891-3000
15.

907 Floyd Ave, Richmond, VA 23284

Score: 91.23

Virginia Commonwealth University's nursing program's core values revolve around lifelong learning, ethical and critical decision-making, and a holistic approach to nursing. Located in Richmond, Virginia, graduates are well-prepared for gainful employment.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing, BSN
  • Phone: (804) 828-0100
16.

1008 South Main Street, Danville, VA 24541

Score: 91.03

Danville Community College's 66-credit ADN program aims to fill the demand for registered nurses in the area. DCC graduates are leaders in the field, providing quality patient-centered care with precision and skill.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (434) 797-8422
17.

8141 Hull Street Rd, North Chesterfield, VA 23235

Score: 91.02

Bryant & Stratton College's Richmond campus in North Chesterfield offers an ADN program that weaves together classroom, lab, and clinical to educate aspiring RNs. Graduates of the program are well-versed in clinical decision-making and personal accountability to become model employees in the medical field.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (804) 745-2444
18.

13101 Jefferson Davis Highway, Chester, VA 23831

Score: 90.46

Those looking for an accredited associate degree nursing pathway in the Richmond area can opt for John Tyler Community College's program. Students enrolled at JTCC can take either the traditional track or the hybrid distance education track, which offers the theory portion of the curriculum online.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (804) 706-5096
19.

2152 Health Sciences Bldg, Norfolk, VA 23529

Score: 89.70

Norfolk's Old Dominion University has a variety of options when looking for a nursing degree, all of which have been noted to have exceptional passing rates on the licensure exams. Norfolk's ODU prepares extraordinary nurses for professional roles.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (757) 683-4297
20.

Score: 89.10

The University of Virginia?s College at Wise is located on 369-acres of beautiful campus in the Virginian Appalachian Mountains. The BSN Program teaches all the skills needed for lifelong learning and a long professional career in nursing.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (276) 376-4690

ADN Programs in Virginia

A 2-year Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) is a great way to start your career as a registered nurse. The shorter length makes it particularly attractive to those who are looking to get started in the field as quickly as possible. Since ADN programs are often offered at community and technical colleges, it can also be a more cost-effective way to become an RN.

With astounding 40-plus schools in the state that offer an ADN program, students from both rural and urban areas have the ability to find schools that suit their needs.

What to Look For in an ADN Program in Virginia

There are many things to think about when trying to choose the right ADN program. Here are a few examples of what you'll want to look for as you check out different schools:

Accreditation

Choosing a school with proper accreditations is crucial. You'll want to be sure the schools you consider hold accreditation from national organizations such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and/or the American Association of Colleges of Nursing's Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). You'll also want to ensure that your school's program is accredited locally by the Virginia Board of Nursing.

Licensing

It's important that your school of choice's program fully prepares you to take the National Council Licensure Examination for licensure as a Registered Nurse (NCLEX). The American Association of Colleges of Nursing reports that 87% of new nurse graduates in Virginia passed their NCLEX exam in 2015 and received licenses.

Program Outcomes

The main indicator of a program's success is statistics of its outcomes, which many schools are happy to report. The following are all good indications of the school's reputation:

  • Graduation rate
  • Licensure exam pass rate
  • Graduate satisfaction
  • Employment rate

Located in Lynchburg, Virginia, Centra College of Nursing is just one example of a school that offers an accredited ADN program in the state.

ADN Program Admission Requirements in Virginia

Each ADN program will have its own specific set of requirements for admission. Here are a few that you may find when looking at programs in the area:

  • Must supply official transcripts
  • Completed pre-requisite courses with a grade of C or higher
  • Cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher

Tuition and Costs of ADN Programs in Virginia

It's crucial to consider tuition costs as you compare ADN programs. You'll also need to remember that tuition is just one portion of what you'll be paying for in order to earn your degree. Textbooks, fees, and uniforms are all examples of costs you may incur, and these may or may not be included in the price of your school's tuition. As an example, the ADN program at Virginia Western University, located in Roanoke, Virginia, has a tuition cost of $170.09 per credit hour for in-state students and $370.19 per credit hour for out-of-state residents.

Advantages of ADN Programs

There are many advantages to going through an ADN program, but arguably the two biggest advantages are length and cost. At 2 years, it's one of the fastest ways of becoming a registered nurse. Because of the shorter length of the program, it also costs considerably less than other 4 year programs and can be found at affordable institutions such as community colleges.

LPN to RN Programs in Virginia

For those who have already completed a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program, there are accelerated pathways available to advance to registered nursing. These LPN to RN “bridge” programs build upon the LPN’s prior education, making the total program time much shorter than a traditional program.

LPN to ADN/BSN Programs

The first-degree option available to LPNs is the ADN degree via the LPN to ADN program. This is the shortest route to registered nursing, often taking less than a year to finish. Virginia Western Community College in Roanoke offers an LPN to ADN (AAS) pathway to prepare students for a career as an RN. For those interested in a bachelor’s degree, there are also LPN to BSN programs available, though these are slightly longer. Hampton University, for example, offers a 3-year LPN to BSN program.

LPN to RN programs in Virginia may require the following for admission:

  • Graduation from an accredited LPN program
  • Current, unencumbered Virginia LPN license
  • Completion of any prerequisite courses
  • Minimum GPA

BSN Programs in Virginia

If you are looking for a more advanced nursing career, a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN) is an excellent option. Earning your BSN opens you up to a larger pool of job opportunities, including public health nurse and nurse educator. These jobs often come with a substantially higher salary as well. The trade-off is that the program is a bit longer, at roughly 4 years to complete for a traditional BSN. With over 20 BSN programs offered at schools all over the state, Virginia is a great place to earn your BSN.

What To Look For in a BSN Program in Virginia

Just like you would for an ADN, you'll want to look for a few main things when considering a school to earn your BSN. Things like legitimate accreditation, program outcomes, and proper preparation for your licensure exam are all very important when it comes to comparing programs. You may also want to see if your school offers an RN to BSN program if you already hold a nursing license.

As an example, Norfolk State University in Norfolk, Virginia offers an accredited BSN program.

BSN Program Length in Virginia

A traditional BSN program will last 4 years. However, programs are considerably shorter if you are already an RN, as many schools also offer an RN to BSN program. If getting done quickly is of utmost importance, you can also look for a school that offers an Accelerated BSN program.

BSN Program Admission Requirements in Virginia

While each program will have its own requirements, here is a sampling of some typical BSN admission requirements:

  • Official transcripts from previously attended colleges or high school
  • Completion of one biology course and one algebra course, with a grade of C or better
  • Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher

Tuition and Costs of BSN Programs in Virginia

Tuition and other costs and fees for your BSN can be hard to decipher and can vary from school to school. Sometimes a school's tuition includes additional costs, like books and uniforms, and sometimes these fees are separate. For example, Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing, located in Richmond, Virginia, has an estimated total BSN program cost of $37,740, including tuition, fees, books, and other costs.

Advantages of BSN Programs

The great thing about earning a BSN is the number of options it gives you. Increased job opportunities and a higher salary are just two of the reasons that going for a BSN can be advantageous. Even those who are already registered nurses choose to go on and complete their BSN to advance their careers.

MSN Programs in Virginia

If you're looking to go beyond a BSN, a Masters of Science in Nursing degree (MSN) (link to ) is the logical next step. This advanced degree can lead to nursing jobs including Clinical Nurse Specialist, Certified Nurse Midwife, and Nurse Practitioner, among other specialties. You must already hold a BSN if you want to move on and earn an MSN.

MSN Program Length in Washington

Most MSN programs last roughly 3 years. Many schools structure the MSN programs so that they are flexible since most students in the program are busy working nurses. It's a good idea to see what kinds of schedules your desired MSN program offers; part-time, night classes, and even online classes are sometimes available, depending on the school.

MSN Admission Requirements in Virginia

MSN admission requirements can vary, so always check your school of choice for details. Here are a few standard MSN admission requirements to give you a general idea:

  • A BSN degree from a regionally accredited institution
  • Active Virginia RN license
  • Current CPR card
  • Work experience as an RN

Tuition and Costs of MSN Programs in Virginia

As with other nursing degrees, tuition and costs for MSN programs can vary widely. As an example, the University of Virginia School of Nursing lists its estimated tuition for in-state residents at $23,356.

For NP programs visit:

Getting a Virginia Nursing License

Virginia State Board of Nursing mandates that candidates looking to procure a license meet certain criteria, as well as completing an application, candidates must submit supporting documentation.

If applying for licensure through examination candidates must complete the appropriate application and also submit:

  • Official transcripts - sent directly to the Board via the school
  • Criminal Background Check - with fingerprint
  • Register for NCLEX - successful outcome upon completion

If applying for licensure through endorsement candidates must submit the above criteria, as well as this additional information:

  • Verification of licensure from originating state - either by request form or through NURSYS

Learn more about VT RN license requirements at the Virginia Department of Health Professions - Board of Nursing.

Accelerated Nursing Programs in Virginia

How long is too long to fast track your career? If you complete an accelerated program in 12 to 18 months, would you consider taking the full-time commitment that it requires? Accelerated programs are rigorous in nature and require participants to attend as full-time studies, working during these programs is not recommended. Gaining entrance into the programs will be dependent upon any required credits that need to be completed prior to the beginning of the program. Fees for these programs are based on the rate charged per credit hour, which means if there any additional credits required, fees may increase.

Continued List of All RN Programs in Virginia

Here is a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs.

RankedSchoolProgramScoreWebsite
21.
Manassas, VA 20109 | Phone: (703) 348-4062
Programs: Associate in Nursing
88.93
22.
Ashburn, VA 20147 | Phone: (571) 553-4498
Programs: BSN
88.76
23.
Charlottesville, VA 22902 | Phone: (434) 977-3900
Programs: Associate in Nursing
88.71
24.
Colonial Heights, VA 23834 | Phone: (804) 765-5800
Programs: Associate in Nursing
88.69
25.
Fairfax, VA 22030 | Phone: (703) 993-1901
Programs: BSN
88.37
26.
Lynchburg, VA 24501 | Phone: (434) 544-8461
Programs: BSN
88.06
27.
Newport News, VA 23606 | Phone: (757) 941-5857
Programs: Associate in Nursing
87.88
28.
Norfolk, VA 23504 | Phone: (757) 823-2205
Programs: BSN
87.81
29.
South Boston, VA 24592 | Phone: (434) 572-5451
Programs: Associate in Nursing
87.78
30.
Alexandria, VA 22309 | Phone: (703) 746-8708
Programs: Associate in Nursing
87.12
31.
Keysville, VA 23947 | Phone: (434) 736-2214
Programs: Associate in Nursing
86.85
32.
Newport News, VA 23601 | Phone: (757) 240-2200
Programs: Associate in Nursing
86.76
33.
Hampton, VA 23666 | Phone: (757) 825-2700
Programs: Associate in Nursing
86.26
34.
Springfield, VA 22150 | Phone: (703) 323-3000
Programs: Associate in Nursing
86.18
35.
Danville, VA 24541 | Phone: (434) 791-5600
Programs: BSN
86.13
36.
Harrisonburg, VA 22802 | Phone: (540) 432-4000
Programs: BSN
85.61
37.
Richmond, VA 23294 | Phone: (804) 417-4742
Programs: Associate in Nursing
85.61
38.
Williamsburg, VA 23188 | Phone: (757) 253-4300
Programs: Associate in Nursing
85.23
39.
Arlington, VA 22202 | Phone: (703) 416-7300
Programs: BSN
85.23
40.
Clifton Forge, VA 24422 | Phone: (540) 863-2820
Programs: Associate in Nursing
84.49
41.
Roanoke, VA 24012 | Phone: (540) 563-8000
Programs: Associate in Nursing
83.77
42.
Franklin, VA 23851 | Phone: (757) 569-6700
Programs: Associate in Nursing
83.39
43.
Hampton, VA 23666 | Phone: (757) 896-6001
Programs: Associate in Nursing
83.22
44.
Weyers Cave, VA 24486 | Phone: (540) 234-9261
Programs: Associate in Nursing
82.99
45.
Roanoke, VA 24015 | Phone: (540) 857-7306
Programs: Associate in Nursing
82.89
46.
Saluda, VA 23149 | Phone: (804) 758-6700
Programs: Associate in Nursing
82.86
47.
Wytheville, VA 24382 | Phone: (276) 223-4700
Programs: Associate in Nursing
82.33
48.
Fredericksburg, VA 22408 | Phone: (540) 373-2200
Programs: Associate in Nursing
82.16
49.
Falls Church, VA 22043 | Phone: (703) 891-1787
Programs: LPN to RN
82.03
50.
Virginia Beach, VA 23462 | Phone: (757) 645-9258
Programs: Associate in Nursing
81.69
51.
Middletown, VA 22645 | Phone: (800) 906-5322
Programs: Associate in Nursing
80.61
52.
Lynchburg, VA 24501 | Phone: (434) 200-3070
Programs: Associate in Nursing
78.73
53.
Richmond, VA 23219 | Phone: (804) 523-5476
Programs: Associate in Nursing
77.98
54.
Dublin, VA 24084 | Phone: (540) 674-3600 x4206
Programs: Associate in Nursing
73.49
55.
Martinsville, VA 24112 | Phone: (276) 638-8777
Programs: Associate in Nursing
73.19
56.
Woodbridge, VA 22192 | Phone: (703) 897-1982
Programs: BSN
71.70
57.
Virginia Beach, VA 23462 | Phone: (757) 499-7900
Programs: Associate in Nursing
71.23
58.
, VA | Phone:
Programs: BSN
69.21
59.
Norfolk, VA 23502 | Phone: (757) 499-5447
Programs: Associate in Nursing
64.32
60.
Richmond, VA 23230 | Phone: (804) 323-1020
Programs: Associate in Nursing
60.70
61.
Falls Church, VA 22043 | Phone: (703) 821-8570
Programs: BSN
59.11
62.
Big Stone Gap, VA 24219 | Phone: (276) 739-2439
Programs: Associate in Nursing
51.64
63.
Abingdon, VA 24210 | Phone: (877) 207-6115
Programs: Associate in Nursing
-
64.
Big Stone Gap, VA 24219 | Phone: (276) 523-2400
Programs: Associate in Nursing
-
65.
Cedar Bluff, VA 24609 | Phone: (276) 964-2555
Programs: Associate in Nursing
-
66.
Portsmouth, VA 23701 | Phone: (757) 822-2124
Programs: Associate in Nursing
-
67.
Roanoke, VA 24013 | Phone: (888) 985-8483
Programs: Accelerated BSN, BSN
-

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