West Virginia may be small, but that doesn't mean nursing jobs in the state are scarce. With over 30 hospitals and nearly 6,000 staffed beds, registered nurses are in demand. In fact, West Virginia has one of the highest concentrations of registered nursing jobs in the nation, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. There are also an astonishing 107 Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs) in West Virginia. HPSAs are designated as having shortages of primary medical care, dental or mental health providers. Opportunities for skilled registered nurses in West Virginia are plentiful, with a competitive average salary of roughly $67,640 per year, with the potential to earn more for experienced nurses with advanced nursing degrees.

For RN bridge programs visit:

Cities in West Virginia

Best RN Programs in West Virginia

Selecting the best nursing school in West 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 10 nursing schools in West Virginia by analyzing current and historical NCLEX-RN "pass rates", meaning the percentage of graduates who pass the exam, out of the 26 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.

64 Medical Center Dr., Morgantown, WV 26506

Score: 98.54

West Virginia University's nursing program values are that of integrity, excellence, and inclusiveness. These values translate into a renowned BSN nursing program that is well respected in the nursing field. Graduates are groomed for successful employment as RNs through clinical experiences and state-of-the-art simulations.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (304) 293-4831
2.

223 W Main St, Salem, WV 26426

Score: 96.92

Those looking for an exceptional 2-year Associate's Degree in Nursing can look to Salem University's program. Small class sizes and a unique curriculum where students take one course monthly gives prospective RNs the framework for success. The program is taught by experienced professors, and students get the benefits of high-tech simulation labs for hands-on learning.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (304) 326-1109
3.

100 Campus Dr, Elkins, WV 26241

Score: 95.48

Davis & Elkins College is a private and accredited school. The nursing program at Davis & Elkins College is based in science and the arts, while emphasizing patient-centered care and compassion. Ethical standards, respect for individual dignity, and consideration of cultural context are implicit in the practice of patient-centered care. Students practice skills in two clinical laboratories – one on D&E’s campus and one on the campus of Davis Health System.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (304) 637-1900
4.

One John Marshall Drive, Huntington, WV 25755

Score: 94.97

Outstanding results on the NLCEX exams, as well as partnerships with other educational facilities and hospitals, all account for the high success rates of the nursing graduates from Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (800) 642-3463
5.

2001 Union Carbide Drive, South Charleston, WV 25303

Score: 92.60

South Charleston’s BridgeValley Community & Technical College offers a 2-year ADN program. Students take a mix of general courses and professional major courses to obtain the knowledge and skills required to find success as a registered nurse. Graduates are well prepared to utilize nursing judgment and provide patient-centered care.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing, LPN to RN
  • Phone: (304) 205-6600
6.

13650 Apple Harvest Drive, Martinsburg, WV 25403

Score: 91.83

Martinsburg, West Virginia is home to the Blue Ridge Community and Technical College, located in the Eastern Panhandle region. BRCTC offers an ASN program that will prepare graduates to confidently accept employment opportunities immediately after graduation.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (304) 260-4380
7.

2900 Dempsey Branch Road, Mount Gay, WV 25637

Score: 91.33

Assessing, promoting, maintaining, and restoring health care are but a few words that best describe the nursing program at Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College. Being part of the change is easy at SWVCTC. Graduates are geared to confidently and successfully enter the field of nursing.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (304) 792-7098
8.

148 Willey St, Morgantown, WV 26505

Score: 89.93

The Morgantown campus of West Virginia Junior College offers an ADN pathway for those who aspire to become RNs. This direct-admittance program boasts a curriculum that combines critical thinking skills with nursing values, and is delivered in a format that includes classroom, laboratory, and clinical learning. It is accredited by ABHES and board-certified.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing, LPN-ADN
  • Phone: (304) 296-8282
9.

2300 Maccorkle Ave SE, Charleston, WV 25304

Score: 89.29

Partnerships, interactive faculty, assignments with other students, and collaboration with outside clinicians all make the BSN program at University of Charleston stand out. Upon completion, graduates are geared for success with confidence, knowledge, and skills.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (304) 357-4835
10.

300 Campus Dr, Parkersburg, WV 26104

Score: 88.67

West Virginia University's Parkersburg campus is home to an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing degree program. Students graduate with a sense of ethics, accountability, and purpose. Upon completion of the program, graduates are motivated to positively impact the face of healthcare.

Program Details

  • Programs: ADN
  • Phone: (304) 424-8000

ADN Programs in West Virginia

If you are looking to get your Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), West Virginia has plenty of schooling options. An ADN is one of the quickest routes to becoming a registered nurse, as it is a 2-year program.

The state boasts over 10 different schools that offer an ADN program accredited by West Virginia's Board of Examiners for Registered Professional Nurses. Many of the schools are community/junior colleges or technical colleges, although some state universities offer the ADN program as well.

What to Look For in an ADN Program in West Virginia

Finding a good ADN program in the state involves considering many factors. You want to focus on a school that will prepare you for your licensure exams. Some other important items to consider include:

Accreditation

You will want to find a school that has legitimate accreditation to ensure that it's up to industry standards. Aside from accreditation from a national organization like the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), you will also want to look for schools that hold accreditation from local places like the West Virginia Council for Community and Technical College Education and the West Virginia Board of Examiners for Registered Professional Nurses.

Licensing

You will want to ensure that upon completing the ADN program at your preferred school that you will be eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for licensure as a Registered Nurse (NCLEX). In 2015, 86.7% of West Virginia new nurse graduates that took the NCLEX received a license.

Program Outcomes

It is wise to inquire about statistics regarding your school's ADN program. The following are all good indications of the school's reputation:

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

Fairmont State University, located in Fairmont, West Virginia, is a great example of a school that offers an accredited ADN program.

ADN Program Admission Requirements in West Virginia

While each specific school may have its own set of specific requirements, most ADN programs in the state have these basic requirements to be accepted into the ADN program:

  • Applicant must meet general admission requirements of the school
  • Must meet the minimum overall GPA (in many cases 2.0 or higher)
  • Must submit ACT, SAT or COMPASS scores
  • Must complete the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) admission test with a proficient or higher score
  • Must submit a completed health form and pass a criminal background check

Tuition and Costs of ADN Programs in West Virginia

Tuition can vary from school to school, but it's important to remember that there are other costs associated with ADN programs aside from just tuition. 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 estimated tuition for the ADN program at Eastern West Virginia Community and Technical College in Moorefield is roughly $3,840 per 2 full-time semesters for in-state students. This does not include student fees, books, or supplies.

Advantages of ADN Programs

Since there is a nursing shortage in West Virginia, the main advantage to getting your associate's degree in nursing is that it's a short 2-year program and you'll have the ability to enter the workforce faster. It's also more affordable than going through longer programs. Community and technical colleges also tend to have more flexible class schedules, meaning that an ADN is a great choice if you are looking to transition to a new career but are still working full-time.

LPN to RN Programs in West Virginia

For those who have already completed Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) education, there are accelerated pathways to an RN degree. LPN to RN programs help nurses transition to this higher-level profession, often much faster than a traditional program typically takes. This specialized pathway gives students credit for prior nursing courses completed in their LPN curriculum.

LPN to ADN/BSN Programs

Students choosing the LPN to RN pathway have a choice in which degree they want to end up with; they can choose to earn an ADN or a BSN degree through the program. The LPN to ADN choice is the shortest, usually taking just a few semesters of study to complete. Bluefield State College is one example of a college offering this LPN to ADN pathway in the state. For those who choose to earn a bachelor’s degree, the LPN to BSN program takes a little longer than its ADN counterpart. Phillipi’s Alderson Broaddus University offers a 36-month LPN to BSN program for students interested in a more intensive nursing education.

Admissions requirements for West Virginia LPN to RN programs may include:

  • Minimum high school/college GPA
  • Active LPN license
  • Completion of all prerequisite courses with a passing grade
  • Preference may be given to students with professional LPN experience

BSN Programs in West Virginia

With a little more schooling, you can earn your Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN). There are around 6 schools in the state with BSN programs that are accredited by West Virginia's Board of Examiners for Registered Professional Nurses. These 4-year programs allow for advanced earning potential and greater nursing career prospects than an ADN alone. Many of the big universities offer BSN programs.

What To Look For in a BSN Program in West Virginia

Like ADN programs, you'll want to find a reputable and accredited school for your BSN program. Many schools in the state also offer an RN to BSN program, so that if you already hold an ADN or LPN license, you can continue on and earn your BSN.

The University of Charleston, located in Charleston, West Virginia, is an excellent example of a school that has an accredited BSN program.

BSN Program Length in West Virginia

BSN programs are 4 years in length. However, if you are already an RN, you can earn your BSN in approximately 2 years.

BSN Program Admission Requirements in West Virginia

While admission requirements will vary from school to school, many of the BSN programs in the area will have these general requirements:

  • Cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher
  • Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) score of 62% or higher

Tuition and Costs of BSN Programs in West Virginia

Tuition costs will for the BSN program will fluctuate depending on which school you choose, and similar to the ADN programs, you will need to factor in additional costs. As an example, tuition for the BSN program at West Virginia Wesleyan College in Buckhannon, West Virginia is approximately $32,976. This does not include the additional expenses of uniforms, professional equipment, exams and fees, background checks, books, room/board, and travel.

Advantages of BSN Programs

BSN programs are beneficial due to the increased earning power a nurse with a BSN holds. More career advancement opportunities also tend to be present when you hold a BSN. Don’t forget that there are also many RN to BSN programs for nurses who want to advance with a BSN.

MSN Programs in West Virginia

A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is an advanced nursing degree for those who want to become advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). This advanced degree can lead to nursing jobs including Clinical Nurse Specialist, Certified Nurse Midwife, and Nurse Practitioner, among other nursing specialties.

There are more than 3 schools in the state that offer MSN degrees accredited by West Virginia's Board of Examiners for Registered Professional Nurses.

MSN Program Length in West Virginia

An RN to MSN program can last roughly 3 years, depending on the school and the previous coursework the student has taken.

MSN Admission Requirements in West Virginia

While admission requirements for an MSN vary from program to program, here are some typical requirements you can expect from nursing schools in the state:

  • Graduate of an accredited BSN program
  • Possess an RN license
  • Minimum 3.0 on all previous college work
  • Submission of official transcripts and letters of recommendation

Tuition and Costs of MSN Programs in West Virginia

Costs for MSN programs vary. As an example, Wheeling Jesuit University, located in Wheeling, West Virginia, charges $550 per credit for their MSN program, as well as a $130 per semester technology fee, a $212 per course audit fee, and a $265 graduation fee, among other fees.

For NP programs visit:

Getting a West Virginia Nursing License

West Virginia regulations for nursing licensure requires candidates to file their application online for either examination process or by endorsement. Both processes also require submitting further information.

Applying for licensure by examination you must also include this supporting documentation:

  • Verification of education
  • Register for NCLEX – passing score upon completion
  • Criminal Background Check – with fingerprints
  • Passport type photo 2”x 2” – signed and dated
  • Affidavit notarized
  • Certification 1 & 2 – to be signed by the appropriate designate

Applying for licensure by endorsement you must also include these documents with your completed/notarized application:

  • Passport type photo 2” x 2” – signed and dated
  • Verification of licensure – either by request form or through NURSYS

Learn more about WV RN license requirements at the West Virginia RN Board.

Accelerated Nursing Programs in West Virginia

If you could see yourself in 12 to 18 months graduating from a degree program, would you take the opportunity? The short timeframe needed to complete the accelerated BSN program at one of the few state programs is exactly 12 to 18 months for completion. Programs are intensive and rigorous due to the course load and clinical hours required, and additional courses will have to be taken prior to entry into the program if you do not meet all of the entrance criteria. Additional costs in tuition fees are possible due to these courses and a number of other factors. Look at each college program to decide which program best fits your needs.

Continued List of All RN Programs in West 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
11.
Huntington, WV 25702 | Phone: (304) 526-1415
Programs: Associate in Nursing
88.19
12.
Shepherdstown, WV 25443 | Phone: (304) 876-5212
Programs: BSN
87.99
13.
West Liberty, WV 26074 | Phone: (304) 336-5000
Programs: BSN
87.89
14.
Beckley, WV 25801 | Phone: (877) 393-5014
Programs: Associate in Nursing
86.51
15.
Weirton, WV 26062 | Phone: (304) 723-2210
Programs: Associate in Nursing
85.20
16.
Buckhannon, WV 26201 | Phone: (304) 473-8000
Programs: BSN
85.15
17.
Fairmont, WV 26554 | Phone: (304) 367-4767
Programs: Associate in Nursing, LPN-ADN
84.87
18.
Beckley, WV 25801 | Phone: (304) 929-8324
Programs: BSN
84.75
19.
Beaver, WV 25813 | Phone: (304) 255-5812
Programs: Associate in Nursing, LPN-ADN
83.79
20.
Wheeling, WV 26003 | Phone: (304) 233-5900
Programs: ADN
82.96
21.
Moorefield, WV 26836 | Phone: (304) 434-8000
Programs: Associate in Nursing
80.96
22.
Bluefield, WV 24701 | Phone: (304) 327-4000
Programs: Associate in Nursing, LPN-ADN
74.94
23.
Wheeling, WV 26003 | Phone: (304) 243-2000
Programs: BA-BS to BSN, BSN
74.68
24.
Cross Lanes, WV 25313 | Phone: (304) 769-0011
Programs: Associate in Nursing
-
25.
Keyser, WV 26726 | Phone: (304) 788-6820
Programs: BSN
-
26.
New Martinsville, WV 26155 | Phone: (304) 455-4684
Programs: Associate in Nursing
-

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.

Share This:
LinkedIn
Reddit