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.
Jump to:
- Virginia RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
- Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Getting an RN License in Virginia
For RN bridge programs visit:
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/).
Radford University
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
Southside Virginia Community College - Alberta
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
Longwood University
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
James Madison University
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
Liberty University
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
Hampton University - College of Virginia Beach
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
University of Virginia
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
Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing
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
Shenandoah University - Winchester
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
Hampton University - Hampton
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
Roanoke Higher Education Center
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
Sentara College of Health Sciences
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
Marymount University
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
Germanna Community College
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
Virginia Commonwealth University
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
Danville Community College
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
Bryant & Stratton College
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
John Tyler Community College
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
Old Dominion University
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
The University of Virginia’s College at Wise
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:
Program | Estimated Tuition | Estimated Credits | Online Availability |
---|---|---|---|
ADN | $6,000 – $15,000 | 60-72 credits | Limited online courses, primarily on-campus |
LPN to RN | $4,000 – $10,000 | 30-45 credits | Often hybrid; some online courses |
RN Diploma | $5,000 – $12,000 | 40-60 credits | Rarely 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:
Program | Length | Estimated Tuition | Entrance Level |
---|---|---|---|
Traditional BSN | 4 years (120-126 credits) | $20,000 – $50,000 | First-time college students |
RN to BSN | 1-2 years (30-35 credits) | $10,000 – $20,000 | Licensed RNs with an ADN |
ABSN | 12-18 months (50-60 credits) | $25,000 – $40,000 | Non-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:
- Virginia Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Virginia MSN Program
- Virginia Accelerated MSN Program
- Virginia RN to MSN Programs
- Virginia Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
- Virginia DNP Programs
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?
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.
Ranked | School | Program | Score | Website |
---|---|---|---|---|
21. | ECPI University - Northern VA Manassas, VA 20109 | Phone: (703) 348-4062 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 88.93 | ecpi.edu |
22. | The George Washington University Ashburn, VA 20147 | Phone: (571) 553-4498 | Programs: BSN | 88.76 | nursing.gwu.edu |
23. | Piedmont Virginia Community College Charlottesville, VA 22902 | Phone: (434) 977-3900 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 88.71 | pvcc.edu |
24. | Southside College of Health Sciences Colonial Heights, VA 23834 | Phone: (804) 765-5800 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 88.69 | bonsecours.com |
25. | George Mason University Fairfax, VA 22030 | Phone: (703) 993-1901 | Programs: BSN | 88.37 | nursing.gmu.edu |
26. | University of Lynchburg Lynchburg, VA 24501 | Phone: (434) 544-8461 | Programs: BSN | 88.06 | lynchburg.edu |
27. | ECPI University - Newport News Newport News, VA 23606 | Phone: (757) 941-5857 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 87.88 | ecpi.edu |
28. | Norfolk State University Norfolk, VA 23504 | Phone: (757) 823-2205 | Programs: BSN | 87.81 | nsu.edu |
29. | Southside Virginia Community College - South Boston South Boston, VA 24592 | Phone: (434) 572-5451 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 87.78 | southside.edu |
30. | Saint Michael College of Allied Health Alexandria, VA 22309 | Phone: (703) 746-8708 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 87.12 | stmichaelcollegeva.edu |
31. | Southside Virginia Community College - Keysville Keysville, VA 23947 | Phone: (434) 736-2214 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 86.85 | southside.edu |
32. | Riverside College of Health Careers Newport News, VA 23601 | Phone: (757) 240-2200 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 86.76 | riversideonline.com |
33. | Thomas Nelson Community College - Hampton Hampton, VA 23666 | Phone: (757) 825-2700 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 86.26 | tncc.edu |
34. | Northern Virginia Community College Springfield, VA 22150 | Phone: (703) 323-3000 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 86.18 | nvcc.edu |
35. | Averett University Danville, VA 24541 | Phone: (434) 791-5600 | Programs: BSN | 86.13 | averett.edu |
36. | Eastern Mennonite University Harrisonburg, VA 22802 | Phone: (540) 432-4000 | Programs: BSN | 85.61 | emu.edu |
37. | ECPI University - Richmond Richmond, VA 23294 | Phone: (804) 417-4742 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 85.61 | ecpi.edu |
38. | Thomas Nelson Community College - Historic Triangle Williamsburg, VA 23188 | Phone: (757) 253-4300 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 85.23 | tncc.edu |
39. | Chamberlain University - Arlington Arlington, VA 22202 | Phone: (703) 416-7300 | Programs: BSN | 85.23 | chamberlain.edu |
40. | Mountain Gateway Community College Clifton Forge, VA 24422 | Phone: (540) 863-2820 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 84.49 | mgcc.edu |
41. | ECPI University - Roanoke Roanoke, VA 24012 | Phone: (540) 563-8000 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 83.77 | ecpi.edu |
42. | Camp Community College Franklin, VA 23851 | Phone: (757) 569-6700 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 83.39 | pdc.edu |
43. | Bryant & Stratton College - Hampton Hampton, VA 23666 | Phone: (757) 896-6001 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 83.22 | bryantstratton.edu |
44. | Blue Ridge Community College Weyers Cave, VA 24486 | Phone: (540) 234-9261 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 82.99 | brcc.edu |
45. | Virginia Western Community College Roanoke, VA 24015 | Phone: (540) 857-7306 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 82.89 | virginiawestern.edu |
46. | Rappahannock Community College Saluda, VA 23149 | Phone: (804) 758-6700 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 82.86 | rappahannock.edu |
47. | Wytheville Community College Wytheville, VA 24382 | Phone: (276) 223-4700 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 82.33 | wcc.vccs.edu |
48. | Eastern Virginia Career College Fredericksburg, VA 22408 | Phone: (540) 373-2200 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 82.16 | evcc.edu |
49. | Standard Healthcare Services, Inc. - College of Nursing Falls Church, VA 22043 | Phone: (703) 891-1787 | Programs: LPN to RN | 82.03 | standardcollege.edu |
50. | ECPI University - Virginia Beach Virginia Beach, VA 23462 | Phone: (757) 645-9258 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 81.69 | ecpi.edu |
51. | Lord Fairfax Community College Middletown, VA 22645 | Phone: (800) 906-5322 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 80.61 | lfcc.edu |
52. | Centra College of Nursing Lynchburg, VA 24501 | Phone: (434) 200-3070 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 78.73 | centrahealth.com |
53. | Reynolds Community College Richmond, VA 23219 | Phone: (804) 523-5476 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 77.98 | reynolds.edu |
54. | New River Community College Dublin, VA 24084 | Phone: (540) 674-3600 x4206 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 73.49 | nr.edu |
55. | Patrick Henry Community College Martinsville, VA 24112 | Phone: (276) 638-8777 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 73.19 | patrickhenry.edu |
56. | Stratford University - Woodbridge Woodbridge, VA 22192 | Phone: (703) 897-1982 | Programs: BSN | 71.70 | stratford.edu |
57. | Bryant & Stratton College Virginia Beach, VA 23462 | Phone: (757) 499-7900 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 71.23 | bryantstratton.edu |
58. | Stratford University - Alexandria , VA | Phone: | Programs: BSN | 69.21 | |
59. | Fortis College - Norfolk Norfolk, VA 23502 | Phone: (757) 499-5447 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 64.32 | fortis.edu |
60. | Fortis College - Richmond Richmond, VA 23230 | Phone: (804) 323-1020 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 60.70 | fortis.edu |
61. | Stratford University - Falls Church Falls Church, VA 22043 | Phone: (703) 821-8570 | Programs: BSN | 59.11 | stratford.edu |
62. | Virginia Appalachian Tricollege Big Stone Gap, VA 24219 | Phone: (276) 739-2439 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 51.64 | vhcc2.vhcc.edu |
63. | Virginia Highlands Community College Abingdon, VA 24210 | Phone: (877) 207-6115 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | - | vhcc.edu |
64. | Mountain Empire Community College Big Stone Gap, VA 24219 | Phone: (276) 523-2400 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | - | mecc.edu |
65. | Southwest Virginia Community College Cedar Bluff, VA 24609 | Phone: (276) 964-2555 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | - | sw.edu |
66. | Tidewater Community College Portsmouth, VA 23701 | Phone: (757) 822-2124 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | - | tcc.edu |
67. | Radford University Carilion Roanoke, VA 24013 | Phone: (888) 985-8483 | Programs: Accelerated BSN, BSN | - | www1.radford.edu |
Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.