How to Find Colleges With Good Nursing Programs: 4 Steps

If you’re planning a career in nursing, the first step is to generate a list of colleges with good nursing programs. But how can you evaluate schools, and where can you find solid information to help you make the right decision? Not all nursing schools are made alike. Here’s how to find prelicensure programs so you can start your career off right.

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is considered the gold-standard nursing degree by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). This four-year degree will prepare you for clinical practice as a registered nurse. The need for RNs is already high and is expected to grow by 6% in the next several years. A BSN could be your ticket to a stable, diverse career.

In this guide, we’ll be focusing on evaluating and applying for BSN programs, which are found in colleges and universities. If you plan on pursuing an Associate Degree in Nursing, check out our guide to ADN programs.

5 Criteria for Colleges With Good Nursing Programs

Choosing the best undergraduate nursing schools goes beyond picking a big-name school or the closest campus. To make a smart decision, you’ll want to look at specific indicators that show a program’s quality and how well it prepares students for licensure and practice. Here are some key factors to consider:

1. Accreditation

Look for programs accredited by agencies like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Accreditation shows that the program meets national standards and qualifies graduates for licensure.

2. NCLEX pass rates

To become an RN, you’ll need to pass the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) after you graduate. This might sound like a long way off if you’re just beginning to look at schools, but first-time NCLEX pass rates are a major indicator of how well a program prepares students. Colleges with a good nursing program should have consistently high pass rates, which you can find on the National Council for State Board of Nursing (NCSBN) website.

3. Clinical opportunities

Hands-on experience is a huge part of nursing education. Good colleges with nursing programs typically have partnerships with local hospitals, clinics, and healthcare systems for clinical rotations, alongside labs and simulation rooms. If you are considering an online nursing school, keep in mind that you may need to arrange clinical hours yourself.

4. Faculty credentials and ratios

Strong nursing programs are led by experienced and credentialed faculty members who have time to give attention to students. Look for programs where professors have real-world clinical experience and advanced degrees.

5. Reputation

Do some digging on message boards to see what people think about each program. Is the faculty supportive? Is the school properly investing in its students? A program’s reputation is important in deciding whether to apply.

Finding Colleges With Good Nursing Programs For You: 4 Steps

There are lots of great nursing schools out there, but even the ones with the best reputations might not be right for you. We’ve broken down the process for finding, evaluating, and applying to colleges with strong nursing programs.

Step 1: Understand Your Options

Before you start digging into colleges, take time to evaluate your personal needs, preferences, and qualifications. Nursing programs vary widely in size, competitiveness, and cost. Having a clear picture of what you’re looking for will help narrow your search.

Answer these questions to help guide your thinking:

• Are you willing to move for school? Deciding whether to attend a local school or relocate can significantly impact your choices. Staying in state may offer lower tuition, while moving could open doors to more competitive programs.
• What’s your current GPA? Nursing programs are generally very competitive. Be honest about your academic standing, and consider whether you have a good chance of being admitted to a school’s nursing program once you’re a student at the main college.
• Have you taken the SAT or ACT? Some colleges have test-optional policies, while others require or recommend standardized test scores. Strong SAT/ACT scores could boost your application, especially if your GPA is on the lower end.
• What type of school environment do you prefer? Do you want a large university with a bustling campus, or a smaller college with more personalized attention? Think about class sizes, campus culture, and what kind of learning environment helps you thrive.
• Are you applying as a traditional college student or as a transfer/adult learner? Some colleges with nursing programs have different admission paths for high school students, current college students, or second-degree seekers. Look for programs that align with your situation.
• What can you afford, and what financial aid is available? Consider tuition, housing costs, and available scholarships. Don’t rule out a school based on sticker price alone. Many programs offer grants, tuition assistance, or state-specific aid for nursing students. You won’t know your true tuition cost until you apply for financial aid.

Step 2: Evaluate Programs

Do some research on the colleges with good nursing programs you’ve shortlisted. Many schools run interest sessions or campus tours, which might help you get a better sense of what a school is like.

Now it’s time to review the nursing school admissions requirements. Most schools require you to apply and be admitted to the university, and then separately apply to the nursing program once you’ve completed prereqs like chemistry and biology. Do some digging on how the program is structured, and take notes so that you can compare programs.

You might want to ask questions like:

• When do students enter the nursing program (freshman year, sophomore year, etc.)?
• Will there be a summer school requirement?
• Are clinical experiences arranged by the school or by students?
• How far can students expect to travel for clinical rotations?
• What study support or NCLEX prep does the school offer?
• How competitive is the nursing program?
• What is the average GPA of accepted nursing students?
• Does the school offer good minors for nursing majors?

Step 3: Complete General University Applications and Apply for Financial Aid

University applications are usually done through a state system, the Common App, or directly through the school’s website. Each university might have unique requirements, but in general, here are the most common documents and materials you’ll be asked to submit:

• High school transcripts (or college transcripts, if you’re transferring)
• SAT or ACT scores (though a school may be test-optional)
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal statement or essay
• Application fee (some schools offer fee waivers if you qualify)
• Vaccine records
• Proof of state residency (for in-state tuition eligibility)
• FAFSA or financial aid documentation

If you’re applying to multiple schools, stay organized with a checklist or spreadsheet so you don’t miss a deadline. Once you’ve submitted your university applications and have been accepted, you’ll be able to see what financial aid you qualify for. Learn more about how to pay for nursing school with our guide. Remember that the nursing school application will usually come later and require additional materials.

Step 4: Weigh Your Options and Decide

Once school decisions roll in, it’s time to consider which is the right fit for you. The most prestigious college might not actually be the one where you’ll be happiest, so think about goal alignment, not just how fancy the university is. Pick the program that not only fits on paper but also feels right for you and your wallet.

Once you’re admitted, the real work begins. You’ll need to complete nursing school classes and learn how to be a good nursing student. Soon, you’ll be well on your way to being a practicing nurse.

Find Flexible Roles for Student Nurses

While you’re searching for colleges with good nursing programs, you might be curious about jobs that allow you to work during school. Working as a nursing student can help you build confidence and skills. Learn more with personalized job notifications that alert you to open roles in your area.