top Nursing Schools in VA: Your Complete Guide to Nursing Education & careers
Virginia is a strong hub for nursing education,offering a diverse range of programs-from conventional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) tracks to fast-track RN-to-BSN options,as well as advanced degrees like MSN and DNP. Weather you’re just starting your nursing journey or you’re an experienced RN aiming for advanced practice, virginia’s schools provide robust clinical partnerships, state-of-the-art simulation labs, and pathways to exciting healthcare careers. In this thorough guide, you’ll discover the top nursing schools in VA, how to choose the right program, admissions tips, scholarships, real-world experiences, and what to expect after graduation.
Why Virginia is a great place for nursing education
- Strong clinical networks: Virginia’s major hospital systems (VCU health, UVA Health, Sentara, Carilion, and more) partner with nursing programs to provide hands-on learning.
- A mix of public and private institutions: From large research universities to historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), VA offers a variety of program styles and settings.
- Affordability and in-state benefits: In-state tuition options and Virginia-based scholarships help make nursing education more accessible.
- Career opportunities: The state’s aging population and growing healthcare demand create plentiful RN, BSN, and advanced practice roles after graduation.
Top nursing schools in VA at a glance
Below is a snapshot of some of Virginia’s most respected nursing programs. Each school offers unique strengths, from robust clinical partnerships to flexible online options for working students. For each entry, you’ll find the city, typical programs, and a note on what makes the school stand out in Virginia’s nursing education landscape.
| School | City | Program Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) School of Nursing | Richmond | BSN,MSN,DNP; strong clinical partnerships with major health systems; active research opportunities; renowned NCLEX performance. |
| University of Virginia (UVA) School of Nursing | Charlottesville | BSN, MSN, DNP, PhD; emphasis on leadership, research, and evidence-based practice; immersive clinicals with UVA Health. |
| Old Dominion University (ODU) School of Nursing | Norfolk | BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, DNP; large, comprehensive program with extensive simulation labs and regional clinical sites. |
| George Mason University (GMU) College/School of Nursing | Fairfax | BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, DNP; online and hybrid options; strong emphasis on aging, informatics, and primary care. |
| James Madison University (JMU) College of Health and Behavioral Studies | Harrisonburg | BSN, RN-to-BSN; tight-knit campus community; robust clinical experiences in diverse settings. |
| Virginia Tech (VT) - School of Nursing | Blacksburg | BSN,MSN,DNP; growing research footprint; strong partnerships with regional health systems and Carilion Clinic. |
| Hampton University | Hampton | BSN programs (traditional and RN-to-BSN tracks); historically strong program with clinical focus and community health emphasis. |
| Norfolk State University (NSU) – College of Science,Engineering & Technology | Norfolk | BSN program; accessibility for students across eastern Virginia; emphasis on urban health and community nursing. |
How to choose the right nursing program in Virginia
Choosing a nursing program is a critical step toward your nursing career. Consider these factors to find the best fit:
Look for CCNE or ACEN accreditation for baccalaureate and graduate programs; consider the school’s overall nursing reputation and board pass rates when available. Decide between traditional BSN, accelerated BSN for second-degree seekers, RN-to-BSN bridge programs, MSN tracks, or DNP/PhD pathways for advanced practice and leadership roles. Check the strength and variety of clinical partnerships (hospitals, clinics, and community health sites) and the quality of simulation labs. In-state tuition, campus vs. online options, and evening/weekend schedules can matter greatly if you’re balancing work or family commitments. Compare tuition, fees, room/board, and the availability of scholarships, grants, and work-study programs specific to nursing. While not the only measure, high first-pass NCLEX pass rates can be a positive indicator of program quality. Look for mentorship programs,tutoring,career services,and success stories from recent graduates.
Admissions tips and prerequisites for virginia nursing programs
Admissions requirements vary by program and degree level. Here are common elements you’ll encounter across VA nursing schools:
Competitive GPA, especially for BSN programs; many direct-entry programs require a solid science and math background. Typically anatomy & physiology, microbiology, chemistry, introductory biology, statistics, psychology, and English composition. Some programs require TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or other placement assessments; others may waive tests for certain transfer students. Usually 2-3 letters from teachers or employers who can speak to your clinical, academic, or professional abilities. A chance to convey your motivation, resilience, and fit with the program’s mission. For RN-to-BSN or MSN programs, you’ll typically need an active RN license or eligibility; most schools require clear background checks as a condition of admission.
Financial aid, scholarships, and funding in Virginia
Funding nursing education is crucial. Virginia offers a mix of institutional scholarships, state programs, and private awards. Consider these options:
- Virginia state scholarships for nursing students and healthcare workers.
- School-specific scholarships at VCU, UVA, ODU, GMU, JMU, VT, and others; check the financial aid office for application deadlines.
- professional associations and alumni networks frequently enough offer nursing scholarships (e.g.,Virginia Nurses Association,foundation programs).
- Employer tuition reimbursement programs for working RNs pursuing BSN,MSN,or DNP tracks.
Benefits and practical tips for nursing students in VA
Virginia programs emphasize clinical rotations across acute care, pediatrics, obstetrics, psychiatric-mental health, and community health. Public universities often provide on-campus and online options to accommodate working students and married students. Many programs pair students with faculty mentors and alumni networks to support career progress.
first-hand experiences and case studies
Real student stories can illuminate what to expect. Here are two illustrative examples based on common pathways through Virginia nursing programs:
Case Study 1: Jasmine’s RN-to-BSN journey at ODU
Jasmine started as a working RN with an associate degree. She chose ODU’s RN-to-BSN program because of its strong clinical partnerships and evening/weekend course options. Balancing shifts with classes, she leveraged the university’s online resources and simulation labs to reinforce her clinical skills. After completing the BSN, Jasmine landed a specialty nurse role in a regional hospital and plans to pursue an MSN focused on nurse leadership.
Case Study 2: Miguel’s traditional BSN at UVA
miguel entered UVA’s prelicensure BSN program straight from high school. He benefited from small cohort sizes, faculty mentorship, and access to UVA Health’s diverse clinical sites. He also participated in a research-focused nursing practicum, discovering an interest in pediatric oncology. After graduation, Miguel sat for the NCLEX with confidence and pursued a nurse navigator role as a stepping stone to leadership.
Career paths after Virginia nursing programs
Graduates from VA nursing programs pursue a wide range of paths, including:
- Registered nurse (RN) in medical-surgical units, intensive care, pediatrics, obstetrics, emergency departments, and community health.
- Specialized nursing roles through MSN programs (e.g., nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, nurse-midwife, nurse anesthetist).
- Advanced practice roles via DNP or PhD tracks dedicated to leadership, education, informatics, or policy.
- Academia and research positions within university settings or healthcare systems.
Salary and demand vary by location, specialization, and experience. In Virginia, RNs typically earn competitive wages that reflect the state’s healthcare needs, with higher pay in metropolitan areas and specialized units. Advanced practice roles generally offer higher earning potential and greater autonomy, along with opportunities to influence patient care at the system level.
Conclusion: Your complete guide to nursing education & careers in Virginia
Choosing the right nursing school in Virginia is a meaningful step toward a rewarding career in health care.Virginia’s top nursing programs-ranging from VCU and UVA to ODU, GMU, JMU, VT, hampton, and NSU-provide robust clinical experiences, modern facilities, and pathways for every learner, whether you’re pursuing a traditional BSN, an RN-to-BSN bridge, or advanced degrees like MSN and DNP. By considering accreditation, pathways, clinical partnerships, flexibility, and financial aid options, you can select a program that aligns with your career goals and learning style.
If you’re begining your nursing journey in Virginia, start by listing your priorities-location, format (on-campus vs. online),cost,and desired degree-and then compare programs against those criteria. Engage with admissions counselors, tour campuses or participate in virtual details sessions, and request updated NCLEX pass rates and graduate outcomes. With dedication and the right program, you’ll be well on your way to a meaningful nursing career that makes a real difference in Virginia and beyond.
Whether you’re drawn to the city of Richmond’s vibrant healthcare landscape, Charlottesville’s academic culture, or the coastal opportunities around Norfolk, Virginia’s nursing schools are ready to support your ambitions. Your nursing education in VA is the foundation for a career that combines science, compassion, and lifelong learning.
