Nursing is a rewarding and fulfilling career that allows you to make a real difference in people's lives. With a shortage of nurses across the United States and Canada, there has never been a better time to get your nursing license exam and pursue a career in nursing. If you're considering this, you'll need to choose among the best nursing schools that offer top-notch education and training.
With so many nursing schools to choose from in the United States and Canada, it can be overwhelming to determine which ones are the best. That's why we've compiled a list of the 35 best nursing schools in the U.S. and Canada for 2023. Whether you're looking for a traditional four-year program or an accelerated nursing program, we've got you covered.
In this blog, we'll explore the unique features of each school and what sets them apart from the rest. By the end, you'll know good colleges for nursing and will have a better understanding of which nursing school might be the perfect fit for you.
The qualities that make a nursing school great
There are several qualities that make a nursing school great. Here are some of the most important ones:
A nursing school can be considered great based on a variety of qualities. While some may prioritize a free nursing school, others may focus on its programs. However, the key attributes that define a good nursing school include:
1. Accreditation
A great nursing school should be accredited by a recognized accrediting body such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Accreditation ensures that the school's nursing programs meet certain standards of quality and prepare students for licensure exams.
2. Experienced and knowledgeable faculty
The nursing faculty at a great nursing school should be experienced and knowledgeable. They should have a passion for teaching and be dedicated to helping their students succeed. They should also have real-world nursing experience, which can be invaluable in helping students understand how to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting.
3. Rigorous curriculum
A great nursing school should have a rigorous curriculum that provides students with a solid foundation in nursing theory and practice. The curriculum should be designed to prepare students for licensure exams and for their future careers as nurses.
4. Clinical practice opportunities
Nursing is a hands-on profession, and a great nursing school should provide students with ample opportunities to gain real-world clinical experience. This can include clinical rotations at hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings.
5. Technological resources
In today's rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, it's essential for nursing students to have access to the latest technological resources. Best nursing schools should have state-of-the-art facilities and equipment and access to cutting-edge technology and software.
6. Supportive learning environment
Nursing school can be challenging, and a great nursing school should provide students with a supportive learning environment. This can include access to tutoring, academic support services, counseling, and mental health resources.
7. Career services
A great nursing school should have a strong network of alumni and industry connections and should provide students with career services to help them transition into the workforce. This can include resume-building workshops, job search assistance, and networking opportunities with potential employers.
8. Diversity and inclusion
A great nursing school should value diversity and inclusion and strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for students from all backgrounds. This can include diversity in the student body, faculty, and curriculum, as well as cultural sensitivity training for faculty and staff.
9. Research opportunities
Nursing is a constantly evolving field, and a great nursing school should provide students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research. This can include research assistantships, independent study projects, and access to research facilities and resources.
10. Community engagement
A great nursing school should be actively engaged with the local community and healthcare organizations. This can include community service projects, outreach programs, and partnerships with local hospitals and clinics.
Overall, a great nursing school should provide students with a comprehensive education that prepares them for a successful career in nursing. It should be committed to excellence in nursing education, research, and service and should provide students with the resources and support they need to achieve their goals.
20 best nursing schools in the U.S.
We have compiled a list of the top nursing schools in the United States for 2023. We ranked the 20 best nursing schools based on a variety of criteria, including graduation rates, NCLEX pass rates, student-to-faculty ratios, and program offerings.
Let’s see an overview of each school on our list, including program offerings, location, and notable features.
1. University of Pennsylvania
Located in Philadelphia, the University of Pennsylvania's nursing program offers a comprehensive curriculum. The program also offers a variety of specialties, including adult-gerontology primary care, neonatal nursing, and pediatric nursing. It’s a private, not-for-profit university. On average, nursing graduates from UPenn experience an increase in earnings of approximately $30,032 compared to the typical earnings of their peers who graduated from nursing programs.
2. Johns Hopkins University
Johns Hopkins University is located in Baltimore and has the best nursing programs. It offers a variety of degree options, including Bachelor, Master, and Doctoral degrees. This university has so many special programs, such as nurse anesthesia, pediatric nursing, and Radiology.
Shortly after graduating from the nursing degree program at Johns Hopkins University, degree recipients earn $35,940 more than the average college graduate in this field.
JHU’s tuition in 2021-2022 was $58,720, although it offers nursing school scholarships and tuition assistance to eligible students to get their undergraduate and graduate-level degrees.
3. Vanderbilt University
Vanderbilt University is a private research university located in Nashville, Tennessee. Its nursing school rankings are consistently among the best nursing schools in the United States, offering various nursing school programs.
Vanderbilt University is known for its innovative curriculum, cutting-edge research, and commitment to producing nursing leaders who can improve healthcare outcomes.
Additionally, nursing students who graduate from Vanderbilt University have a higher earning potential than the average nursing student, with an average salary of $42,512 more per year.
4. Duke University
Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke University's nursing program offers a rigorous curriculum with opportunities for perfect experience through internships. It’s a private, not-for-profit university with several program specialties.
Shortly after graduation, nursing program graduates from Duke University earn $27,298 more than the average college graduate with the same degree.
5. University of California, San Francisco
The University of California, San Francisco's nursing program is a public nursing school located in the heart of San Francisco and offers a variety of degree options, including a master's program with specialties in family health care, nurse-midwifery, and psychiatric-mental health nursing.
6. Emory University
Emory University's nursing program, located in Atlanta, Georgia, is among the best nursing schools in the US, offering various degree options. The program also offers a dual degree option for students who wish to earn both a nursing and public health degree.
Shortly after graduation, graduates from this private university can earn $26,794 more than the average college graduate in this field.
7. Mayo Clinic School of Medicine
The Mayo Clinic School of Medicine is a renowned medical school that is part of the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. The school offers various medical degree programs, including MD, PhD, and Master's degrees.
Mayo Clinic School of Medicine is known for its innovative curriculum, research opportunities, and clinical training. Graduates of the school are highly respected in the medical field and often go on to pursue successful careers as physicians and researchers.
Shortly after graduation, graduates from the nursing degree program at Mayo Clinic School of Medicine earn an average of $109,597 more than their peers who graduated from other colleges with a nursing degree.
8. University of Michigan
The University of Michigan's nursing program in Ann Arbor has a comprehensive curriculum with opportunities for hands-on experience through clinical rotations and internships. The program also offers a variety of specialties, including acute care nursing, pediatric nursing, and women's health.
On average, nursing graduates from the University of Michigan receive a salary increase of approximately $9,865 compared to the average earnings of their peers.
9. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
One of the best nursing programs in the US is for the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. This nursing program offers a variety of degree options, including a master's program with specialties in adult-gerontology primary care, family nursing, and nurse anesthesia. The program also offers opportunities for research and professional development.
The University of North Carolina is one of the top five public schools in the nation.
10. New York University
New York University's nursing program, located in New York City, offers a variety of degree options, including a master's program with specialties in acute care nursing.
New York University is the 3rd highest-ranked university out of 143 schools in the state of New York for overall quality. Graduates with a nursing degree from NYU earn an additional income of around $43,812 compared to the average earnings of nursing majors.
11. University of Washington
The University of Washington, also known as UW Seattle, is a public university located in the bustling city of Seattle, Washington. With a very large student population, UW Seattle is known for its exceptional academic programs and outstanding faculty.
Nursing degree recipients from UW Seattle receive an earnings boost of about $23,922 over the average income of nursing graduates, making it an excellent choice for those who are looking to have a high paying nurse job.
12. University of Maryland, Baltimore
The University of Maryland - Baltimore, also known as UMB, is a public university located in the large city of Baltimore. With a medium-sized student population, UMB is known for its outstanding nursing school programs.
Nursing degree recipients from UMB receive a significant earnings boost of approximately $20,882 above the typical income of nursing majors. This is a testament to the quality of education and training students receive at UMB, preparing them for success in their chosen healthcare careers.
13. Arizona State University
Arizona State University is in Phoenix and is part of ASU's downtown Phoenix campus. ASU's nursing program offers various nursing programs, including a traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), an accelerated BSN, and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).
14. Baylor University
Baylor University is a national Christian university located in Waco, Texas, USA. It’s one of the best nursing schools as it offers many degrees, such as a traditional BSN, an accelerated BSN, and an MSN.
Baylor is known for its strong commitment to academic excellence, Christian values, and community engagement.
15. Columbia University
Columbia University is a private Ivy League research university located in New York City, USA. Columbia's nursing school offers a variety of degree programs, including Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, and Doctor of Nursing Practice programs, and is known for its innovative research and commitment to addressing critical health care issues.
On average, nursing graduates from Columbia University earn $42,480 more than their counterparts who received their degrees from other institutions.
16. Georgetown University
Georgetown University is a private, not-for-profit university located in Washington, DC, USA. It has a large student population and is widely recognized for its academic excellence and commitment to social justice.
The university is home to a highly regarded nursing school, the Georgetown University School of Nursing & Health Studies, which is consistently ranked among the best nursing schools in the US.
Graduates of the nursing program at Georgetown University earn an average of $27,973 more than the average college graduate in the field when they enter the workforce.
17. Ohio State University
Ohio State University is a public research university located in Columbus, Ohio. The university offers a wide range of academic programs, including one of the top nursing schools in the country - the Ohio State University College of Nursing.
It’s located on the university's main campus and offers a Bachelor's and Master’s of Science, a Doctor of Philosophy, and a Doctor of Nursing degree. As part of a large public university, students at Ohio State have access to a diverse range of academic and extracurricular opportunities.
18. Oregon Health & Science University
Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is a public research university located in the city of Portland, Oregon. OHSU has built a reputation as a leading research institution in the United States.
The university offers a range of nursing degree programs across its various campuses, including an accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) that can be completed in just three years.
19. Rush University
Rush University is a top nursing school located in the Illinois Medical District of Chicago. As a private institution focused solely on health sciences, Rush offers programs in medicine, nursing, allied health, and biomedical research.
The university is affiliated with the Rush University Medical Center, which has been ranked among the top five academic medical centers in the country. The Rush University College of Nursing offers advanced practice nursing school courses for graduate degrees.
20. Texas Christian University
Texas Christian University (TCU) is a private university located in Fort Worth, Texas. TCU's Harris College of Nursing & Health Sciences offers a variety of nursing programs, including undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees.
It’s among the best nursing schools that is consistently ranked among the best in the nation and is known for its emphasis on evidence-based practice, patient-centered care, and leadership development. TCU's nursing graduates are highly sought after by healthcare employers and have a strong track record of success in the field.
15 best nursing schools in Canada
Now, let’s check our list of the top 15 best nursing schools in Canada for 2023, as well as each one’s program offerings, location, and notable features.
1. University of Toronto
The University of Toronto is a highly renowned public research university located in Toronto, Canada. Its nursing school is one of the best in the country, offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
This nursing university is known for its exceptional faculty and facilities, which provide students with a comprehensive and practical education.
Graduates from the nursing program are highly sought after in the healthcare industry and have a reputation for being knowledgeable, skilled, and compassionate professionals.
2. McGill University
McGill University is a public research university located in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. It was founded in 1821 and is considered one of the best universities in Canada.
McGill University has one of the best nursing schools, which is known as the Ingram School of Nursing. It offers three different Bachelor's degree programs, including the Bachelor of Nursing (Integrated) Online program for those who have a CEGEP diploma in nursing.
All courses, except for clinical courses, are offered online. These Online nursing programs allow students to complete their studies from anywhere with an internet connection.
3. University of British Columbia
The University of British Columbia's (UBC) School of Nursing, located in Vancouver, is part of the Faculty of Applied Science and is located on the same campus as other healthcare faculties, including medicine, pharmacy, nutrition science, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and dentistry. This creates a unique and collaborative environment for healthcare education and research.
The School of Nursing offers undergraduate and graduate nursing programs that focus on advancing nursing practice and improving healthcare outcomes.
4. McMaster University
McMaster University is a public research university located in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Its School of Nursing is considered one of the best nursing schools in Canada, with a reputation for innovative teaching and research in the field of nursing.
The School offers undergraduate and graduate programs in nursing, including a unique problem-based learning curriculum for its Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) program.
The School's faculty are also recognized for their contributions to nursing research and scholarship, particularly in the areas of aging, health promotion, and chronic disease management.
5. University of Alberta
The University of Alberta is a top-ranked university in Canada and is widely recognized for its exceptional nursing programs. It is among the best nursing schools in the country, offering four undergraduate programs that lead to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN).
The university is located in Edmonton and offers a collaborative program with Red Deer College, Keyano College, and Grande Prairie Regional College, where students can complete all four years of their program at any of the three colleges.
6. Queen's University
Queen's University is a prestigious institution and one of the top nursing schools in Canada, located in Kingston, Ontario. It has been in operation for over 75 years and is known for its excellent nursing program.
Students have access to a wide range of placement opportunities and can get a placement in various areas of nursing, including pediatrics, maternity, medical-surgical, mental health, and community care. The employment rate of Queen's University nursing graduates is very high.
7. Western University
Western University, located in London, Ontario, Canada, offers a highly regarded nursing program through its Arthur Labatt Family School of Nursing.
The nursing program at Western University is known for its strong emphasis on clinical practice and its commitment to educating nurses who can adapt to the rapidly changing healthcare environment.
Graduates from the nursing program at Western University are well-prepared to pursue careers in a variety of healthcare settings and are highly sought after by employers.
8. University of Calgary
The University of Calgary is a public research university located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. It is consistently ranked among the top universities in Canada for its research output and overall reputation. Its nursing program is highly regarded and is ranked among the best in Canada.
The University of Calgary's nursing program offers undergraduate and graduate programs and continuing education for practicing nurses. The program emphasizes hands-on clinical experience and research-based teaching, preparing students for careers in a variety of nursing specialties.
9. Dalhousie University
Dalhousie University is located in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. The university offers a variety of nursing programs. Dalhousie's School of Nursing offers different programs in nursing, including Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degrees.
The nursing program offers a wide range of clinical placements in various healthcare settings and opportunities for research and community engagement.
10. University of Ottawa
The University of Ottawa is a perfect Canadian university known for its excellent nursing program. The Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Ottawa offers a range of nursing programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as continuing education for nurses.
The nursing faculty is committed to excellence in education, research, and practice and has a reputation for producing highly skilled and knowledgeable nurses who are leaders in their field. With state-of-the-art facilities and a strong focus on hands-on learning and clinical experience, the University of Ottawa is a top choice for students pursuing a career in nursing.
11. Nipissing University
Nipissing University is among the best school for registered nurses. It’s located in the beautiful city of North Bay, Ontario, Canada. With a strong focus on student-centered learning, Nipissing University is renowned for providing an exceptional educational experience to students across various academic fields.
One of the most popular programs at Nipissing University is the Nursing School. The Nursing program offers students an opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of the nursing profession, preparing them for a successful career in healthcare.
The Nursing program at Nipissing University offers a unique approach to learning, combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience. Its curriculum is comprehensive and covers a wide range of topics, including anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, patient care, nursing ethics, and legal issues in healthcare. Students also have the opportunity to specialize in specific areas of nursing, such as pediatric nursing, geriatric nursing, or psychiatric nursing.
12. York University
York University's nursing school is located in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The school offers different programs in nursing, including a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) program, a Master of Science in Nursing (MScN) program, and a Ph.D. in Nursing program.
In addition to traditional classroom and clinical learning experiences, York University's nursing program offers a variety of unique learning opportunities, such as simulation labs, community-based placements, and international learning experiences.
13. Toronto Metropolitan University
Toronto Metropolitan University, also known as Ryerson University, is a public university located in downtown Toronto, Canada.
The Daphne Cockwell School of Nursing at Ryerson University is known for its innovative and student-centered approach to nursing education, as well as its commitment to social justice and equity.
The Daphne Cockwell School of Nursing faculty are highly respected experts in the field and are dedicated to preparing students for successful careers as nurses.
14. Memorial University
Memorial University is one of the other public universities in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. The university offers a Bachelor of Nursing program through the School of Nursing. The program prepares students to become registered nurses with a strong emphasis on experiential learning and community engagement. It’s among the best nursing schools, committed to providing high-quality education and preparing nurses who can deliver safe and competent care to individuals, families, and communities.
15. University of Victoria
The University of Victoria offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program through the School of Nursing. The program focuses on providing students with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to become competent and compassionate registered nurses.
The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, leadership, and innovation and includes both classroom and clinical components. This university is committed to promoting health equity and social justice and preparing graduates who can positively impact the health of individuals and communities.
The importance of choosing the right nursing school
Choosing the right nursing school is a critical decision that will impact your education and career. With so many options to choose from, it can be challenging to find the best fit for you.
The best nursing schools will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to excel in your career, as well as hands-on experience through clinical rotations and internships. By choosing the right nursing school, you can set yourself up for success in your future career.
Selecting the appropriate nursing school is crucial for several reasons, as outlined below:
1. Quality of education
The quality of education that you receive can have a significant impact on your career as a nurse. It is essential to choose a nursing school that offers high-quality education, experienced faculty, and modern facilities that will equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in your career.
2. Career opportunities
The reputation of your nursing school can affect your career opportunities. Employers often prefer to hire nurses who have graduated from reputable schools with a good track record of producing successful graduates.
Additionally, some nursing schools have partnerships with hospitals and other healthcare organizations that can provide students with valuable nursing job opportunities after graduation.
3. Accreditation
Accreditation is important because it ensures that the nursing school meets specific educational standards set by national organizations. Graduating from an accredited nursing school can make you eligible to take licensure exams, and it can also impact your eligibility for financial aid programs.
4. Networking opportunities
Best nursing schools can provide you with networking opportunities that can be invaluable in your future career.
You may have the chance to meet and connect with influential healthcare professionals, alumni, and other students who can offer you guidance, support, advice, and even different types of nursing job offers.
5. Personal fit
Finally, choosing the right nursing school is also about finding a nursing program that fits your personal needs and goals. Consider factors like location, cost, class size, clinical opportunities, and specialties offered to find a program that aligns with your interests and career aspirations.
Overall, choosing the right nursing school can significantly impact your career as a nurse. It is essential to do your research, evaluate your options, and select a school that offers high-quality education, accreditation, career opportunities, networking, and a personal fit.
Do not forget that the better your nursing school is, the more chance you’ll have of passing your nursing license exam. You can also get help from some resources, like Smart’n. Smart'n is a platform designed to help nursing students pass their NCLEX exam by providing them with a wide range of practice questions, NGN-NCLEX case studies, rationales, and assessments.
How to get into the best nursing schools?
Getting into the best nursing schools can be a competitive process, but there are several steps you can take to increase your chances of being accepted. Here are some tips to help you:
1. Research the schools
Start by researching the best nursing schools in your area or in the country. Look for schools that have a strong reputation for nursing education and high NCLEX pass rates.
2. Get prepared for the interview
Preparing for the nursing school interview is critical to your success. You should research commonly asked nursing school interview questions and practice answering them beforehand.
Some common interview questions include why you want to become a nurse, how you handle stress, and how you would handle a difficult patient or family member.
3. Meet the admission requirements
The nursing school requirements vary depending on the school, but generally, you will need to have a high school diploma or GED, a minimum GPA, and completion of specific prerequisite courses such as anatomy, physiology, and microbiology.
It is essential to research the specific requirements of the nursing schools you are interested in and ensure that you meet or exceed them.
4. Gain healthcare experience
Nursing schools often look for applicants with healthcare experience, so consider working as a nursing assistant or volunteering at a hospital or clinic. This can also give you an opportunity to shadow nurses and gain a better understanding of the profession.
5. Get involved in extracurricular activities
Nursing schools want well-rounded students, so consider getting involved in extracurricular activities related to healthcare or nursing. Join a nursing club or volunteer organization, participate in health-related events, or attend nursing conferences.
6. Write a strong personal statement
Your personal statement can set you apart from other applicants, so make sure it showcases your passion for nursing and why you want to attend that particular nursing school. Be sure to proofread it carefully and have someone else review it as well.
7. Have a recommendation letter
A strong letter of recommendation for nursing school can also increase your chances of acceptance. Choose someone who knows you well and can attest to your academic abilities, work ethic, and personal qualities. This could be a former teacher, mentor, or supervisor.
8. Apply early
Nursing schools often have rolling admissions, which means that the earlier you apply, the better your chances of being accepted. Make sure you submit your application as soon as possible.
Remember that getting into the best nursing schools takes time and effort, but with determination and hard work, you can achieve your goal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many excellent nursing schools in both the United States and Canada. Choosing the right and best nursing schools is an important decision that should be based on a variety of factors. We hope that this article has provided you with a helpful overview of some of the top nursing schools in the U.S. and Canada in 2023.
Remember to carefully research each school and consider your own personal goals and preferences before making a final decision. With hard work and dedication, you can earn a degree from one of these top-ranked nursing schools and make a positive impact on the world of healthcare. Good luck with your nursing school search!
FAQs
1. What are the top nursing schools in the United States for 2023?
Some of the top nursing schools in the United States for 2023 include Johns Hopkins University, Duke University, and the University of Pennsylvania.
2. What are the top nursing schools in Canada for 2023?
Some of the top nursing schools in Canada for 2023 include the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia.
3. What is the #1 nursing college in the US?
It is difficult to definitively say which nursing college is the "#1" in the US, as there are many excellent programs with different strengths and specialties. However, some believe that Duke University School of Medicine is the best nursing college in the U.S.
