The natural beauty of Virginia is undeniable from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the hundreds of miles of coastline, and whether you’ve grown up in The Old Dominion State or you’re considering moving here, the opportunities for new nurses are also undeniable. Within the next 10 years, Virginia is expecting a large increase in nursing positions — 8% to be exact. If you’re curious about the process for getting started and what types of nursing degree programs are available in the state, read on below.

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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

Virginia Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees

If you’re looking to pursue a career as a registered nurse, Virginia provides several pathways to help you get started in the nursing field. Many students choose to begin with an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Keep reading to explore each degree option and determine which one aligns best with your goals.

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

If you’re starting out in nursing with no experience, it can be challenging to figure out how to get started and what degrees you need. There are generally three main pathways for entry-level nurses; these are an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Each option has its own set of advantages. An ADN and nursing diploma are the quickest routes, getting you licensed and into the field in as little as 1 to 2 years. A BSN, however, requires a full-time study period of four years and offers more opportunities. For those already working as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), you can find faster tracks to both ADN and BSN degrees through an LPN to RN bridge program.

Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Virginia 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:

ProgramEstimated TuitionEstimated CreditsOnline Availability
ADN$6,000 – $15,00060-72 creditsLimited online courses, primarily on-campus
LPN to RN$4,000 – $10,00030-45 creditsOften hybrid; some online courses
RN Diploma$5,000 – $12,00040-60 creditsRarely 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 Virginia.

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

While ADN programs and nursing diplomas provide quicker paths to entering the workforce, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is often a worthwhile investment for many students. A BSN is preferred by many employers over an ADN or nursing diploma and can serve as a stepping stone to advanced degrees if you choose to pursue graduate education. For experienced nurses, you can earn your BSN in as little as two years if you already have RN licensure and an ADN. If you hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field, an accelerated BSN program can help you complete your BSN in just one year, provided you have the necessary credits.

Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Virginia 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:

ProgramLengthEstimated TuitionEntrance Level
Traditional BSN4 years (120-126 credits)$20,000 – $50,000First-time college students
RN to BSN1-2 years (30-35 credits)$10,000 – $20,000Licensed RNs with an ADN
ABSN12-18 months (50-60 credits)$25,000 – $40,000Non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders

RN to BSN

Virginia RN to BSN are some of the most popular bridge programs in the state. To qualify, you need to hold an RN license and an ADN. If you meet these criteria, you can typically earn your BSN in just 2 to 3 years

Accelerated BSN (ABSN)

If you already have a bachelor’s degree and want to transition to a BSN, one of the quickest ways to do so is by enrolling in a Virginia ABSN program. This option allows you to earn your BSN in as little as one year.

Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs

Students in Virginia who are looking to advance their nursing careers into more independent and higher-paying roles have several options available. Whether you’re aiming 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 to suit your goals. Remember, most of these programs require that you already have a BSN or MSN, hold an active and unencumbered RN license, and meet the specific entry requirements for 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 Virginia:

Getting an RN License in Virginia

If you plan to practice as a nurse in Virginia, obtaining licensure is a must. RN licensure in Virginia requires passing the NCLEX-RN exam after completing an accredited nursing program. Once you've passed the exam, the final step is submitting an application to the Virginia Board of Nursing and paying the associated fee.

Requirements for RN Licensure in Virginia

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

Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?

No matter which program you choose, it’s crucial to ensure that the program is accredited. RN program accreditatio signifies that the program meets the standards set by the state nursing board. As you apply to nursing programs in Virginia, be sure they are accredited by either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

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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