Nursing is an art: and if it is to be made an art, it requires an exclusive devotion as hard a preparation as any painter's or sculptor's work.
Florence Nightingale
Choosing the right nursing school is an important step when becoming a nurse. The United States has numerous esteemed universities offering competitive nursing programs. These programs combine advanced academics and clinical experience. This article highlights the top 12 nursing schools in the U.S., providing information on their rankings, where they are located, their tuition costs and distinctive features in order to assist future nursing students in choosing the right school. Let's get started!
Key Takeaways: Top 12 Nursing Schools in the US
- University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia, PA) 🏫
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 94.83%
- Tuition: $142,749 per year
- Highlights: Offers specialty paths in pediatric, gerontology, psychiatric nursing, strong clinical partnerships and international experience opportunities.
- Duke University (Durham, NC) 👩⚕️
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 98.39%
- Tuition: $30,324 for two semesters
- Highlights: Known for research, simulation labs and strong clinical connections with Duke University Health System.
- Johns Hopkins University (Baltimore, MD) 💉
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 92.31%
- Tuition: $70,794 for 40 credits
- Highlights: Focus on advanced research, healthcare issues and clinical rotations at Johns Hopkins Hospital.
- University of Michigan (Ann Arbor, MI) 🎓
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 98.95%
- Tuition: $63,600 for 40 credits
- Highlights: Emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, clinical placements across urban and rural settings for diverse care experiences.
- University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA, Los Angeles, CA) 🌟
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 97.73%
- Tuition: In-state $32,976, Out-of-state $45,221
- Highlights: Specialized paths in nurse anesthetist, family nurse practitioner programs and clinical training at UCLA Medical Center.
- Emory University (Atlanta, GA) 🌍
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 96.26%
- Tuition: $63,380
- Highlights: Extensive clinical practice opportunities, international placements and strong focus on global health awareness and research.
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (Chapel Hill, NC) 🏥
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 95.7%
- Tuition: $41,240 for 40 credits (in-state)
- Highlights: Strong community health focus, specialized paths in family nurse practitioner and psychiatric nursing.
- New York University (New York, NY) 🗽
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 89.8%
- Tuition: $43,200 per year
- Highlights: Offers accelerated programs and dual degrees; clinical experience in major NYC hospitals with a focus on global nursing.
- University of Pittsburgh (Pittsburgh, PA) 🏥
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 93.45%
- Tuition: $32,124 per year (in-state)
- Highlights: Focus on leadership and clinical practice; clinical rotations through University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC).
- University of Florida (Gainesville, FL) 🌴
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 94%
- Tuition: $14,000–$31,394
- Highlights: Emphasizes practical skills with diverse healthcare settings across Florida.
- University of Texas at Austin (Austin, TX) 🤘
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 96.25%
- Tuition: In-state $12,427, Out-of-state $22,713
- Highlights: Strong public nursing program with clinical training through local hospitals like Dell Seton Medical Center.
- Columbia University (New York, NY) 📚
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 94%
- Tuition: $108,134 annually
- Highlights: Renowned for global health, nurse practitioner education and clinical experience through partnerships with top medical institutions like the NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital.
1. University of Pennsylvania – Philadelphia, PA
One of the best nursing schools in the US is the University of Pennsylvania. Ranked consistently among the the United States' top nursing programs, UPenn focuses on research and clinical excellence. The NCLEX pass rate is 94.83%, with a acceptance rate of 9%. Tuition averages around $142,749 per year. UPenn provides numerous specialty paths, including pediatric nursing, gerontology and psychiatric nursing. Its extensive clinical partnerships with leading hospitals, such as the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, ensure students receive ample practical training. Here is a visual tour on YouTube in case you're considering this university!
2. Duke University – Durham, NC
Known for producing research driven professionals, Duke offers advanced simulation labs and has a NCLEX pass rate of 98.39%. The acceptance rate is 8% and tuition is approximately $30,324 for two semesters. Duke's nursing curriculum includes specialized programs such as neonatal nursing and family nurse practitioner paths. Its state-of-the-art facilities provide immersive simulations, fostering practical skills in a controlled environment. Duke also has solid connections with Duke University Health System, giving students direct clinical experience. The school also encourages student involvement in research, leadership and global health initiatives. What is your take on the best undergraduate nursing schools?
3. Johns Hopkins University – Baltimore, MD
One of the best schools for nursing is Johns Hopkins. This university sets high standards for research-based nursing education, preparing students for advanced nursing roles. The NCLEX pass rate is 92.31%, with an acceptance rate of 7.5%. Graduate tuition averages $70,794 for 40 credits. The school’s internationally renowned faculty leads research projects in public health, aging and global healthcare issues. Johns Hopkins offers many advanced nursing programs, such as acute care nurse practitioner and clinical nurse specialist paths. Students benefit significantly from clinical rotations at prestigious institutions like Johns Hopkins Hospital, known globally for healthcare excellence!
Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing admits approximately 300 students annually into its Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): Entry into Nursing program.
4. University of Michigan – Ann Arbor, MI
Are you thinking of studying nursing in Michigan? Offering extensive clinical experiences, Michigan has a NCLEX pass rate of 98.95% and an acceptance rate of 26%. Tuition for undergraduates averages $63,600 for 40 credits. The university focuses on interdisciplinary learning and collaboration with other healthcare disciplines. Its innovative programs cover nursing informatics, leadership and advanced clinical practice. Clinical placements vary! They include urban hospitals and rural healthcare centers in order to prepare students to deliver culturally competent care. Additionally, students participate in active research projects alongside experienced faculty! The University of Michigan is definitely one of the best nursing schools in the us.
Rhetaugh Graves Dumas was the first Black woman to serve as dean at the University of Michigan School of Nursing. She was also the first nurse, woman and African-American to serve as deputy director of the National Institute of Mental Health.
5. UCLA – Los Angeles, CA
UCLA’s School of Nursing is recognized for academic excellence and partnerships with great hospitals. It has a NCLEX pass rate of 97.73%, with in-state tuition averaging $32,976 and out-of-state at $45,221. UCLA offers specialized nursing paths like nurse anesthetist and family nurse practitioner programs. Students receive clinical training at UCLA Medical Center and other top healthcare facilities in the Los Angeles area. Additionally, UCLA focuses on public health and offers opportunities to participate in community outreach as well as health promotion projects.
Would you like to study nursing in Los Angeles? Here's a YouTube video from UCLA's department of nursing!
6. Emory University – Atlanta, GA
Are you still looking for the best nursing school in US? Just like any other great nursing program, Emory combines academic discipline with clinical expertise. The program's NCLEX pass rate is 96.26%, acceptance rate is 19% and tuition averages $63,380. Emory’s nursing programs include extensive opportunities for clinical practice in renowned institutions such as Emory University's very own hospital. The school also offers international clinical placements, therefore encouraging global health awareness. Finally, Emory fosters research participation in areas like infectious diseases and chronic illness management, preparing students for leadership in healthcare innovation.
7. UNC Chapel Hill – Chapel Hill, NC
Known for a condense curricula and community health focus, UNC has a 95.7% NCLEX pass rate. Acceptance is at 23%, with in-state tuition averaging $41,240 for 40 credits. UNC offers specialized paths, including community health, family nurse practitioner and psychiatric nursing. The program is committed to serving underserved populations, providing students extensive community engagement opportunities. Additionally, UNC supports research involvement and interdisciplinary learning with other healthcare professionals!
8. New York University – New York, NY
NYU’s nursing college focuses on diverse clinical experiences. The NCLEX pass rate is 89.8%, the acceptance rate is at 13% and the tuition is around $43,200 per year.
NYU offers accelerated programs, dual degrees and specialized paths such as pediatric and mental health nursing. Clinical experiences are done in different major hospitals in New York City, offering exposure to various patient populations!
NYU also emphasizes global nursing experiences, providing international placements and exchange programs to enhance cultural awareness. Are you looking for a nursing program in New York?
9. University of Pittsburgh – Pittsburgh, PA
One of the best nursing schools in the US is the University of Pittsburgh. Focused on clinical practice and leadership, Pitt’s program has an NCLEX pass rate of 93.45%. Acceptance is at 24%, with in-state tuition at $32,124 per year. Pitt offers innovative curriculum options like nursing informatics and acute care. Students benefit from clinical rotations in the acclaimed University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) health system. The school strongly promotes research involvement, interprofessional education and leadership development through various student organizations.
10. University of Florida – Gainesville, FL
UF provides practical skills training and academic discipline, with a 94% financial aid rate. The acceptance rate is 30%, with tuition costs ranging from $14,000 to $31,394. UF's nursing program focuses mainly on practical clinical skills, therefore offering experiences in diverse healthcare settings across Florida. Specialized paths include public health nursing and acute care. UF actively supports student research and provides opportunities for leadership and community engagement through numerous student-led initiatives. Will you be studying nursing in Florida? Discover this best schools for nursing!
11. University of Texas at Austin – Austin, TX
The University of Texas at Austin’s School of Nursing consistently ranks among the top public nursing programs in the nation, known for its commitment to excellence in education, research and community service. With a NCLEX pass rate of 96.25% and a competitive acceptance rate of 20%, UT Austin offers both undergraduate and graduate nursing programs tailored to multiple career paths. Are you interested in studying nursing in Texas?
In-state tuition averages around $12,427, while out-of-state is approximately $22,713 per year. The school provides clinical training through strong partnerships with local hospitals and healthcare systems, including Dell Seton Medical Center. Students benefit from research opportunities in areas like aging, health disparities and mental health. The school’s holistic and culturally aware approach prepares graduates for leadership in a rapidly evolving healthcare environments!
12. Columbia University – New York, NY
Columbia University School of Nursing stands out as one of the nation’s most prestigious nursing programs, combining academic excellence with innovative clinical training in the heart and heat of New York City. With a strong NCLEX pass rate of around 94% and a competitive acceptance rate near 35%, the school offers MSN and doctoral programs designed to shape future leaders in nursing!
Tuition for graduate nursing students averages around $108,134 annually. Students gain hands-on experience through Columbia’s partnerships with top medical institutions like the NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital. Known for its pioneering work in nurse practitioner education and global health, Columbia places a strong emphasis on health equity, advanced practice and interdisciplinary collaboration. This focus prepares graduates to make a meaningful impact in both local communities and global healthcare systems. Here's a short video on Columbia's nursing program on YouTube!
How Superprof Can Help You Succeed
Have you chosen your best nursing school in US?
Superprof is an excellent resource for students looking to push their nursing studies even further. Whether you need extra support preparing for nursing exams, mastering challenging coursework or gaining confidence in clinical skills, Superprof connects you with experienced tutors specialized in nursing. With lessons available both online and in-person, you can find guidance tailored precisely to your learning style, goals and schedule! Superprof makes achieving academic success in nursing easier and more accessible than ever before. Look up your tutor on Superprof today! The first class is often free. ;)
Enroll in a Reputable Nursing School Today
Choosing the right nursing school is an important decision that will shape your future in healthcare. The institutions highlighted in this article represent the best in nursing education, offering a combination of academic excellence, great clinical training and opportunities for leadership and research. Each school offers their own strengths to support your professional goals. That being said, what are your professional goals?
As the demand for nurses continues to grow, enrolling in a reputable nursing program not only equips you with the knowledge and experience needed for success, but also opens the doors to a meaningful impact in communities across the United States! Take the time to explore your options, reflect on your aspirations and choose the program that best aligns with your vision for a fulfilling nursing career. Good luck finding the best undergraduate nursing schools for you!
References
- U.S. News & World Report. (2024). Best Nursing Schools. https://www.usnews.com
- National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). (2024). NCLEX Program Reports. https://www.ncsbn.org
- University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing. (2024). https://www.nursing.upenn.edu
- Duke University School of Nursing. (2024). https://nursing.duke.edu
- Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing. (2024). https://nursing.jhu.edu
- University of Michigan School of Nursing. (2024). https://nursing.umich.edu
- University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Nursing. (2024). https://www.nursing.ucla.edu
- Emory University Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing. (2024). https://nursing.emory.edu
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Nursing. (2024). https://nursing.unc.edu
- New York University Rory Meyers College of Nursing. (2024). https://nursing.nyu.edu
- University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing. (2024). https://www.nursing.pitt.edu
- University of Florida College of Nursing. (2024). https://nursing.ufl.edu
- University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing. (2024). https://nursing.utexas.edu
- Columbia University School of Nursing. (2024). https://www.nursing.columbia.edu
- Silvestri, L. A. (2022). Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-RN® Examination (9th ed.). Elsevier.
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