Best Nursing Schools 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 65 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/).



See Our list of the Best Nursing Programs in Virginia

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. In fact, by the year 2020, one in three Virginians may have to go without the healthcare needed due to the shortage. Needless to say, registered nurses are in high demand in the state. With an average salary of roughly $69,790 (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:
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 an estimated cost of $15,467.06, including textbooks and additional fees.
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 $46,320, 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 their estimated tuition for in-state residents at $18,128, not including supplemental fees.
For NP programs visit:
- Virginia DNP Programs
- Virginia FNP Programs
- Virginia Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Virginia Post-Graduate Certificate Nursing Programs
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.
Southside Virginia Community College - Alberta
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.
Longwood University
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.
Radford University
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.
Roanoke Higher Education Center
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.
Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing
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.
Sentara College of Health Sciences
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.
South University - Richmond
Established in 2009, South University's Richmond campus is home to a popular BSN program pathway. Upon graduating from the program, students will have the necessary critical thinking skills, self-awareness, and clinical expertise to provide safe, high-quality care to their patients.
Liberty University
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.
Danville Community College
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.
Southside Virginia Community College - Keysville
Southside Virginia Community College's John H. Daniel campus in Keysville offers students an exceptional Associate of Applied Science nursing program. The dedicated faculty guide students to deftly perform the duties of a registered nurse with confidence.
Averett University
Danville's Averett University prepares future generations of RNs through its BSN program. Enrolled students move through a comprehensive curriculum that includes coursework in Health Assessment, Evidence-Based Practice, Healthcare Economics, and much more.
James Madison University
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.
Southside College of Health Sciences
Southside College of Health Sciences is located in Colonial Heights and provides associate degree nursing students with experiences in and out of the classroom that will allow them to grow their skills. Supportive and knowledgeable faculty foster excellence in patient care and learning.
John Tyler Community College
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.
Bryant & Stratton College
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.
University of Lynchburg
The BSN program at the University of Lynchburg prepares students with a variety of academic and clinical opportunities. The curriculum contains a mixture of courses in the liberal arts and sciences to introduce students to the application of theory and research.
University of Virginia
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.
Germanna Community College
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.
Marymount University
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.
Hampton University - Hampton
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.
Continued List of All RN Programs in Virginia
Ranked | Program | Score | Website |
---|---|---|---|
#21 |
New River Community College
5251 College Drive, Dublin, VA 24084
(540) 674-3600 x4206 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 92.99 | nr.edu |
#22 |
Virginia Commonwealth University
907 Floyd Ave, Richmond, VA 23284
(804) 828-0100 Programs: Associate in Nursing, BSN | 92.79 | bulletin.vcu.edu |
#23 |
Riverside College of Health Careers
316 Main St, Newport News, VA 23601
(757) 240-2200 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 92.64 | riversideonline.com |
#24 |
Southside Virginia Community College - South Boston
820 Bruce St, South Boston, VA 24592
(434) 572-5451 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 92.55 | southside.edu |
#25 |
Rappahannock Community College
12745 College Dr, Saluda, VA 23149
(804) 758-6700 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 92.54 | rappahannock.edu |
#26 |
The University of Virginia’s College at Wise
1 College Ave, Wise, VA 24293
(276) 376-4690 Programs: BSN | 92.52 | uvawise.edu |
#27 |
Virginia Western Community College
3094 Colonial Ave, Roanoke, VA 24015
(540) 857-7306 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 91.97 | virginiawestern.edu |
#28 |
The George Washington University
45085 University Dr, Innovation Hall, Ste 201, Ashburn, VA 20147
(571) 553-4498 Programs: BSN | 91.21 | nursing.gwu.edu |
#29 |
Thomas Nelson Community College - Hampton
99 Thomas Nelson Dr, Hampton, VA 23666
(757) 825-2700 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 91.13 | tncc.edu |
#30 |
Radford University Carilion
101 Elm Ave SE, Roanoke, VA 24013
(888) 985-8483 Programs: Accelerated BSN, BSN | 91.01 | jchs.edu |
#31 |
Dabney Lancaster Community College
1000 Dabney Drive, Clifton Forge, VA 24422
(540) 863-2800 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 91.00 | dslcc.edu |
#32 |
Saint Michael College of Allied Health
8305 Richmond Hwy, Alexandria, VA 22309
(703) 746-8708 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 90.56 | stmichaelcollegeva.edu |
#33 |
Reynolds Community College
700 East Jackson Street, Richmond, VA 23219
(804) 523-5476 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 90.29 | reynolds.edu |
#34 |
Norfolk State University
700 Park Ave, Norfolk, VA 23504
(757) 823-2205 Programs: BSN | 90.25 | nsu.edu |
#35 |
George Mason University
4400 University Dr, Fairfax, VA 22030
(703) 993-1901 Programs: BSN | 89.79 | nursing.gmu.edu |
#36 |
Virginia Appalachian Tricollege
3441 Mountain Empire Road, Big Stone Gap, VA 24219
(276) 739-2439 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 89.53 | vhcc2.vhcc.edu |
#37 |
Shenandoah University - Winchester
1460 University Drive, Winchester, VA 22601
(540) 665-4581 Programs: BSN | 89.51 | su.edu |
#38 |
Centra College of Nursing
905 Lakeside Drive Suite A, Lynchburg, VA 24501
(434) 200-3070 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 88.42 | centrahealth.com |
#39 |
Old Dominion University
2152 Health Sciences Bldg, Norfolk, VA 23529
(757) 683-4297 Programs: BSN | 88.34 | odu.edu |
#40 |
Piedmont Virginia Community College
501 College Dr, Charlottesville, VA 22902
(434) 977-3900 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 88.06 | pvcc.edu |
#41 |
Northern Virginia Community College
6699 Springfield Center Dr, Springfield, VA 22150
(703) 323-3000 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 87.77 | nvcc.edu |
#42 |
ECPI University - Newport News
1001 Omni Boulevard #305, Newport News, VA 23606
(757) 941-5857 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 87.71 | ecpi.edu |
#43 |
Eastern Mennonite University
1200 Park Rd, Harrisonburg, VA 22802
(540) 432-4000 Programs: BSN | 87.59 | emu.edu |
#44 |
Hampton University - College of Virginia Beach
253 Town Center Drive, Suite 1035, Virginia Beach, VA 23462
(757) 637-2200 Programs: BSN | 87.41 | nursing.hamptonu.edu |
#45 |
ECPI University - Northern VA
10021 Balls Ford Rd. #100, Manassas, VA 20109
(703) 348-4062 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 87.00 | ecpi.edu |
#46 |
Thomas Nelson Community College - Historic Triangle
4601 Opportunity Way, Williamsburg, VA 23188
(757) 253-4300 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 86.51 | tncc.edu |
#47 |
Stratford University - Woodbridge
14349 Gideon Dr, Woodbridge, VA 22192
(703) 897-1982 Programs: BSN | 86.20 | stratford.edu |
#48 |
Chamberlain University - Arlington
2450 Crystal Drive, Suite 319, Arlington, VA 22202
(703) 416-7300 Programs: BSN | 85.63 | chamberlain.edu |
#49 |
Camp Community College
100 N College Dr., Franklin, VA 23851
(757) 569-6700 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 85.53 | pdc.edu |
#50 |
Standard Healthcare Services, Inc. - College of Nursing
7704 Leesburg Pike #1000, Falls Church, VA 22043
(703) 891-1787 Programs: LPN to RN | 85.31 | standardcollege.edu |
#51 |
Fortis College - Richmond
2000 Westmoreland Street, Suite A, Richmond, VA 23230
(804) 323-1020 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 84.73 | fortis.edu |
#52 |
Lord Fairfax Community College
173 Skirmisher Lane, Middletown, VA 22645
(800) 906-5322 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 84.51 | lfcc.edu |
#53 |
Wytheville Community College
1000 E Main St, Wytheville, VA 24382
(276) 223-4700 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 84.15 | wcc.vccs.edu |
#54 |
South University - Virginia Beach
301 Bendix Rd Suite 100, Virginia Beach, VA 23452
(877) 206-1845 Programs: BSN | 81.44 | southuniversity.edu |
#55 |
Patrick Henry Community College
645 Patriots Avenue, Martinsville, VA 24112
(276) 638-8777 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 80.47 | patrickhenry.edu |
#56 |
Blue Ridge Community College
Box 80, One College Lane, Weyers Cave, VA 24486
(540) 234-9261 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 80.44 | brcc.edu |
#57 |
Eastern Virginia Career College
10304 Spotsylvania Ave. Suite 400, Fredericksburg, VA 22408
(540) 373-2200 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 79.93 | evcc.edu |
#58 |
ECPI University - Virginia Beach
5501 Greenwich Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23462
(757) 645-9258 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 79.69 | ecpi.edu |
#59 |
Fortis College - Norfolk
6300 Center Drive, Suite 100, Norfolk, VA 23502
(757) 499-5447 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 76.88 | fortis.edu |
#60 |
Stratford University - Falls Church
7777 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22043
(703) 821-8570 Programs: BSN | 76.13 | stratford.edu |
#61 |
ECPI University - Richmond
2809 Emerywood Pkwy Suite 400, Richmond, VA 23294
(804) 417-4742 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 74.75 | ecpi.edu |
#62 |
ECPI University - Roanoke
5234 Airport Rd NW Suite 200, Roanoke, VA 24012
(540) 563-8000 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 72.97 | ecpi.edu |
#63 |
Bryant & Stratton College
301 Centre Pointe Drive , Virginia Beach, VA 23462
(757) 499-7900 Programs: Associate in Nursing | - | bryantstratton.edu |
#64 |
Bryant & Stratton College - Hampton
4410 E. Claiborne Square Suite 233 , Hampton, VA 23666
(757) 896-6001 Programs: Associate in Nursing | - | bryantstratton.edu |
#65 |
Tidewater Community College
120 Campus Drive, Portsmouth, VA 23701
(757) 822-2124 Programs: Associate in Nursing | - | tcc.edu |
Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.
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