10 Best Nursing Schools in 2023

When it comes to pursuing a career in nursing, choosing the right school is paramount. The best nursing schools offer a gateway to a fulfilling and impactful profession in healthcare. In this competitive field, it’s crucial to receive top-notch education and training that equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel. 

This introduction will guide you through the key factors that make a nursing school the best choice for your future. Discover why these institutions stand out and how they can shape your path to a successful nursing career.

How Long is Nursing School?

The duration required to obtain a nursing degree can vary significantly due to the diverse educational pathways available in the field. To become a registered nurse (RN) in most states, individuals typically pursue either a two-year associate degree in Nursing (ADN) or a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). 

After completing one of these programs, candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN examination to obtain their RN license.

While the ADN is the minimum requirement, the demand for BSN-educated nurses is on the rise. Many employers now require a BSN, and some states even mandate nurses to earn a bachelor’s degree within ten years of initial licensure. 

Over 82 percent of employers prefer BSN-educated nurses, with 41 percent of healthcare facilities making it a requirement.

Additionally, a BSN can open doors to higher salaries and leadership positions. Experienced ADN-educated RNs can opt for an RN-to-BSN program, which can vary in length based on transferred credits. 

These flexible programs, available online or in-person, allow nurses to further their education and career opportunities. 

For instance, the University of Bridgeport offers an online RN-to-BSN program that can be completed in one academic year, plus one summer semester. The duration of your nursing education depends on your chosen path and career goals.

How Much Do Nurses Make?

Nurses’ earnings in the United States can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and specialization. According to Indeed.com, on average, nurses earn approximately $43.33 per hour, resulting in an annual income of around $92,485. However, it’s important to note that there is a range in nurse salaries.

The lower end of the salary spectrum sees nurses earning about $59,441 per year, while those on the higher end can make as much as $143,897 annually. Additionally, nurses may have the opportunity to earn extra income through overtime, with an average annual overtime income of $12,000, as reported by Indeed.com.

These figures highlight the potential for a rewarding career in nursing, with opportunities for both financial stability and growth, depending on individual circumstances and career choices.

Requirements to Become a Nurse

Becoming a nurse involves meeting certain educational and licensing requirements. Typically, aspiring nurses must follow these steps:

• Education: Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Then, enroll in an accredited nursing program, such as a two-year associate degree in Nursing (ADN) or a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program.

• Coursework: Complete nursing coursework, including clinical rotations, to gain knowledge and hands-on experience in patient care.

• Licensure: After completing your nursing program, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a licensed registered nurse (RN).

• State Requirements: Meet any additional state-specific requirements for nursing licensure, which may include background checks or fingerprinting.

• Specialization (Optional): Pursue advanced practice or specialty certifications if desired, which may require further education and exams.

• Continuing Education: Stay current by fulfilling continuing education requirements to maintain licensure and enhance nursing skills throughout your career.

Best Nursing Schools

Here are the best nursing schools in 2023:

Duke University

• Annual Tuition: $50,516

• NCLEX Pass Rate: 99%

• Programs: Traditional, Accelerated

Duke University is renowned for its research programs. The School of Nursing offers an accelerated BSN program for those who have already completed a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. This program takes 16 months to complete, provides 800 hours of clinical experience, and boasts excellent outcomes. Duke also excels in graduate programs, particularly in nurse anesthesia.

Georgetown University

• Annual Tuition: $61,872

• NCLEX Pass Rate: 96.88%

• Programs: Traditional, Online (graduate)

Georgetown’s BSN program uses a direct entry method, providing over 850 hours of clinical experience in the Washington, D.C. area. Graduate options include a nurse-midwifery/women’s health nurse practitioner MSN and a BSN-DNP program for those aiming for doctoral education.

Johns Hopkins University

• Annual Tuition: $66,168

• NCLEX Pass Rate: 93%

• Programs: Online (graduate)

Johns Hopkins is a research powerhouse. It offers an MSN program for non-nursing majors, leading to strong NCLEX outcomes. Post-MSN, nurses can choose from 13 DNP specialties for specific career goals.

New York University

• Annual Tuition: $58,168

• NCLEX Pass Rate: 88.3%

• Programs: Traditional, Accelerated

NYU provides various undergraduate options, including a traditional BSN and an accelerated 15-month BSN. The university’s Rory Meyers College of Nursing offers a range of graduate programs with opportunities for specialization.

University of Pennsylvania

• Annual Tuition: $56,212

• NCLEX Pass Rate: 94.6%

• Programs: Traditional, Online, Accelerated

As an Ivy League university, Penn Nursing focuses on research across all programs. BSN students gain hands-on experience through mentorship programs and study abroad opportunities. Graduate options include nurse-midwifery, nurse anesthesia, and various DNP tracks.

University of Michigan

• Annual Tuition: $16,404 (in-state) | $55,002 (out-of-state)

• NCLEX Pass Rate: 98.06%

• Programs: Traditional, Online

UM offers a well-established BSN program with over 100 years of nursing education experience. Graduate students can choose from eight MSN specialties, all leading to APRN roles, with high pass rates on certification exams.

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

• Annual Tuition: $23,856

• NCLEX Pass Rate: 84%

• Programs: Traditional, Hybrid DNP

UCLA’s BSN program provides a strong foundation for nursing careers and graduate studies. MSN options at UCLA are highly regarded, with specializations that prepare nurses for leadership roles. The DNP program is available in a hybrid format.

University of Washington

• Annual Tuition: $16,324 (in-state) | $54,320 (out-of-state)

• NCLEX Pass Rate: 78.72%

• Programs: Traditional, Accelerated

UW nursing students benefit from clinical experiences at top hospitals. The school offers unique programs, such as an accelerated BSN with early DNP admission. There are 10 DNP tracks for APRN roles, with a focus on clinical excellence.

Emory University

• Annual Tuition: $57,120

• NCLEX Pass Rate: 98%

• Programs: Traditional, Accelerated

Emory ranks as one of the top undergraduate nursing schools. It offers three options for undergraduate students and a range of graduate programs, including MSN and DNP options with diverse specializations.

University of Maryland

• Annual Tuition: $9,635 (in-state) | $39,597 (out-of-state)

• NCLEX Pass Rate: 90.33%

• Programs: Traditional, Online

The University of Maryland stands out for its innovative research. The BSN program emphasizes nursing leadership and offers diverse graduate-level nursing degrees, including DNP programs and administrative roles.

Conclusion

These best nursing schools represent excellence in nursing education, research, and clinical practice. These institutions provide diverse pathways for aspiring nurses and offer the foundation for successful, impactful careers in healthcare.