Best Nursing Schools in Washington, DC
Washington, D.C., our nation’s capital, is a vibrant hub of culture, history, and opportunity. It also boasts a growing demand for healthcare professionals, including nurses, driven by the city’s diverse population and numerous healthcare facilities. According to recent projections, nursing job openings in D.C. are expected to rise to over 5% higher in the next decade, reflecting the increasing need for skilled caregivers. To explore how you can prepare for and access these opportunities, review the sections below.
2027 Best Nursing Schools in Washington, DC
Rankings help students choose programs by comparing measurable outcomes, simplifying the decision-making process. For our Best Nursing Schools in Washington, DC rankings, Registerednursing.org uses NCLEX pass rates as the sole ranking criteria. Our transparent methodology is outlined in the link below. https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/
George Washington University
Washington, DC - Private 4-year - gwu.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
The George Washington University Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program provides multiple entry points for students at different stages—whether you're changing careers with an Accelerated BSN, a veteran leveraging military training, or an RN seeking advancement through the online RN-BSN. Each pathway follows a focused four-semester plan, blending rigorous coursework with practical clinical experience. The curriculum is built to produce leaders who can deliver high-quality care immediately upon graduation. With a strong emphasis on evidence-based practice and professional development, the program prepares graduates for diverse roles in hospitals, community health, and beyond. GWU's commitment to nursing excellence ensures students are ready to meet the challenges of modern healthcare.
- 3 concentration options
- 4-Semester program
- Multiple pathways to BSN
- Accelerated option for degree holders
- Veterans BSN for military veterans
- Online RN-BSN for ADN nurses
- Prepares for leadership in nursing
- Focus on high standard of care
Saint Michael College of Allied Health
Washington, DC - Private 2-year - smcah.edu
Associate - Associate in Applied Science Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Saint Michael College of Allied Health offers a comprehensive Associate in Applied Science Degree in Nursing that prepares students for professional nursing careers. The rigorous 24-month program equips students with 70 total credits, including 43 nursing-specific credits, enabling graduates to take the NCLEX-RN licensure exam. Designed for aspiring nurses, the program covers biophysical and psychosocial sciences, with hands-on clinical experiences in diverse healthcare settings.
- 24-month day program option
- 70 total credit program
- 43 nursing-specific credits
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- Acute and chronic care focus
- Multiple campus locations
- Prerequisites include science courses
- GPA requirement 2.5
- Science courses must be recent
- Evening program available
Howard University
Washington, DC - Private 4-year - howard.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Howard University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program offers a comprehensive education that blends liberal arts, sciences, and hands-on clinical training. The curriculum covers foundational sciences, nursing theory, and clinical practice across medical-surgical, maternal-child, community health, and leadership areas. Students develop critical thinking, cultural competence, and communication skills through diverse clinical rotations in Washington, D.C.'s healthcare facilities. The program features three tracks: Basic for incoming freshmen and transfers, LPN to BSN for licensed practical nurses, and RN to BSN for registered nurses. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, TEAS exam, and Casper assessment. Graduates are prepared for professional nursing roles in hospitals, community health, and advanced practice after licensure. With a focus on evidence-based care and health equity, the BSN program integrates theory and practice to produce skilled, compassionate nurses ready to serve diverse populations.
- 3 concentration options
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- Apply by 2025-02-28
- Starts fall/spring
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Financial aid available
- Clinical rotations in diverse healthcare settings
- Culturally competent care focus
Bachelor's - LPN to BSN
Campus Based - Visit Website
Howard University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program offers multiple entry points to prepare students for professional nursing practice. Through a rigorous curriculum that integrates liberal arts, sciences, and hands-on clinical experience, graduates are equipped to provide safe, holistic care across diverse populations. The program includes a dedicated LPN to BSN track for licensed practical nurses seeking advanced education. Students complete prerequisite courses before entering upper-division nursing courses covering medical-surgical, maternal-child, community health, and leadership. Clinical rotations in varied healthcare settings develop critical thinking and evidence-based practice. With a focus on culturally competent care and interprofessional collaboration, graduates are prepared for roles in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA, TEAS exam, and personal statement. Howard's BSN program fosters skilled, compassionate nurses ready to meet evolving healthcare needs.
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Financial aid available
- LPN license required
- Casper Assessment required
- Personal statement required
Georgetown University
Washington, DC - Private 4-year - georgetown.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Georgetown University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a four-year direct-entry program grounded in Jesuit values and experiential learning. Students build a strong foundation in biological, physical, and social sciences while developing clinical judgment, evidence-based practice, and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The curriculum features 800+ clinical, lab, and simulation hours, including experiences at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital and the O’Neill Family Foundation Clinical Simulation Center. Early clinical exposure begins in the first year, and a senior practicum and scholarly project prepare graduates for NCLEX-RN licensure. Graduates pursue careers in clinical practice, research, or leadership, and many continue to prestigious graduate programs. Students benefit from study abroad options, special interest groups, and a supportive mentoring academy with practicing nurses. The program also offers a three-semester BSN Honors Program for advanced scholarly inquiry. With high NCLEX pass rates and recognition as a National League for Nursing Center of Excellence, Georgetown’s BSN produces confident, capable nurses ready to make an impact.
- 4-Year program
- Apply by 2026-01-10
- 96% licensure pass rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Direct-entry nursing program
- 800+ clinical and simulation hours
- NCLEX-RN pass rate 96-100%
- State-of-the-art simulation center
Trinity Washington University
Washington, DC - Private 4-year - www2.trinitydc.edu
Bachelor's - Nursing, B.S.N (Pre-Health Professions/Pre-Licensure)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Trinity Washington University's BSN program prepares you for a rewarding career as a registered nurse. The curriculum begins with liberal arts courses, then dives into nursing theory and clinical practice. You'll learn to provide ethical, holistic care to diverse populations, with a strong emphasis on social justice. Clinical rotations at top hospitals like MedStar Washington Hospital Center and Children's National give you real-world experience. The program fully prepares you for the NCLEX licensure exam. Graduates pursue careers as community health nurses, pediatric nurses, emergency department nurses, and more. Accredited by CCNE, the program is offered on the main campus in Washington, DC. You can study full-time or part-time, and financial aid including the Conway Scholarship is available. With 68 credits to complete, you'll gain the skills to meet the healthcare needs of vulnerable communities.
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- Exams: SAT, ACT
- Test optional
- 68 total credit hours
- 2.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- $0 application fee
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
Washington DC Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
Nursing careers offer multiple entry points for those starting out. If you’re new to the field, you can pursue an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Each pathway has its own benefits, so it's essential to understand the differences to choose the one that best aligns with your goals.
Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs
The primary difference between an ADN and an RN diploma is that an ADN is a degree program, while an RN diploma is a training program. ADN programs are usually offered at universities, whereas nursing diplomas are often available through hospitals and other medical facilities. While nursing diplomas may have a slightly shorter timeline, both pathways generally take about two years to complete. If you're already working as an LPN, you might qualify for an LPN to RN bridge program, which can lead to either an ADN or a BSN, depending on the program.
Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Washington DC 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 Washington DC.
Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs
If you’re ready to invest more time in your nursing education, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a great option. A traditional BSN program typically takes 4 years to complete. However, if you already have nursing experience and an ADN, you may qualify for an RN to BSN program, allowing you to finish in as little as 2 years. If you already hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field, you can pursue an Accelerated BSN (ABSN) program, which can help you earn a BSN in as little as one year, leveraging your existing education.
Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Washington DC 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
For RN bridge programs visit:
A Washington DC RN to BSN lets you graduate in only 2 years as opposed to a traditional BSN program which requires at least 4 years of full-time study. To enroll in an RN to BSN, you’ll need to have an RN license and an ADN degree.
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
Thinking about becoming a nurse later in your career? If you have a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing but want to get your BSN without investing another 4 years, you can enroll in a Washington DC ABSN program. These bridge programs allow you to graduate with a BSN in only a year!
Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
Students in Washington, D.C., aiming to become nurse practitioners or advanced practice nurses have access to a variety of advanced nursing education programs. Whether you're pursuing 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 an option to fit your goals. Most of these programs require you to already hold a BSN or MSN, maintain an active and unencumbered RN license, and meet the specific entry requirements of the 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 Washington DC:
- Washington DC Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Washington DC MSN Program
- Washington DC RN to MSN Programs
- Washington DC Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
- Washington DC DNP Programs
See Related Articles
Getting an RN License in Washington DC
Beyond the educational steps required to become a registered nurse, licensure is also a key part of the process. In Washington, D.C., you'll need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and submit a formal application to the District of Columbia Board of Nursing along with the required fee. After obtaining your RN license, you'll need to stay compliant by completing continuing education courses to maintain your licensure.
Requirements for RN Licensure in Washington DC
- Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
- Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
- Application to the Washington DC Board of Nursing
- Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance
Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?
Attending an accredited nursing program is essential for obtaining licensure as a nurse. Simply put, graduates from non-accredited schools cannot become licensed, a mandatory requirement for all nurses in the district. When researching nursing programs, be sure to select one accredited by either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). RN program accreditation ensures your program meets the standards set by the District of Columbia Board of Nursing for RN licensure eligibility.
List of Nursing Schools in Washington, DC
Washington, DC
George Washington University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 3 concentration options
- 4-Semester program
- Multiple pathways to BSN
- Accelerated option for degree holders
- Veterans BSN for military veterans
- Online RN-BSN for ADN nurses
- Prepares for leadership in nursing
- Focus on high standard of care
Georgetown University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 4-Year program
- Apply by 2026-01-10
- 96% licensure pass rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Direct-entry nursing program
- 800+ clinical and simulation hours
Howard University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 3 concentration options
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- Apply by 2025-02-28
- Starts fall/spring
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Financial aid available
- Bachelor's - LPN to BSN
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Financial aid available
- LPN license required
Saint Michael College of Allied Health
- Associate - Associate in Applied Science Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 24-month day program option
- 70 total credit program
- 43 nursing-specific credits
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- Acute and chronic care focus
- Multiple campus locations
- Prerequisites include science courses
- GPA requirement 2.5
The Catholic University of America
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 4-Year program
- 95% licensure pass rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Scholarships available
- 96.4% NCLEX pass rate
- #28 ranking by U.S. News
- 20+ partner hospitals and clinics
- Study abroad in five countries
Trinity Washington University
- Bachelor's - Nursing, B.S.N (Pre-Health Professions/Pre-Licensure)
Campus Based - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- Exams: SAT, ACT
- Test optional
- 68 total credit hours
- 2.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- $0 application fee
- Prepares for NCLEX
University of the District of Columbia
- Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 4-Semester program
- Apply by 2026-02-27
- Starts fall
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
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