phd nursing uva

• Home  / Admissions

What sets us apart?

Guaranteed Admission for UVA School of Nursing Alumni

Our alumni have proven that they're ready for both the challenges and opportunities that nursing graduate education offers. We're excited to offer this benefit and eager to see the familiar faces it will bring back into our world-class learning environments. While alumni who apply to the MSN, post-master's, and DNP programs must still meet minimum admission requirements, and submit a basic application by the application deadline, their process will be much quicker, easier, and a less cumbersome process.

Top-ranked and trailblazing

• Virginia's only nursing programs ranked among the nation's best (No. 7 among public institutions), including the Commonwealth's first Clinical Nurse Leader master's program
• Academic home to 10 key regional and national nursing and healthcare organization presidents and past-presidents
• Fiercely devoted to purposeful instruction in compassion and self-care through our Compassionate Care Initiative
• Proud of the hundreds of preceptors throughout the Commonwealth under whose mentorship UVA Nursing students learn and flourish
• Unafraid to address difficult or uncomfortable topics (this is Charlottesville, after all) through our IDEA initiative to foster humility, respect, and inclusion in powerful and profound ways

A destination and nursing pedigree that opens doors

• BSN applications have tripled over the last decade and today attract a growing diversity of students from all walks of life
• UVA Nursing graduates rank among the top when it comes to passing the NCLEX and specialty certification exams
• Nearly 8 in 10 of our newly minted nurse graduates find job offers both abundant and well-paying well before graduation; 99% have jobs within three months of graduating

Inclusivity first

• Roughly four in 10 undergraduates hail from under-represented and minority backgrounds; many are first-generation college attendees
• With $3.5 million in scholarships distributed each year to both undergraduates and graduate students, we're proud of our work to make UVA an attractive and affordable option

News & Events

• Coalition for Next Generation Life Science
• Graduate Diversity Home
• About Graduate Student Diversity
• Graduate Diversity Events
• Mentoring Institute
• Postdoctoral Home
• About Postdoctoral Affairs
• Postdoctoral Resources
• Albert Gallatin Graduate Research Fellowship
• Dumas Malone Graduate Research Fellowship
• The Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences (AHSS) Summer Research Awards
• Three Minute Thesis (3MT) at UVA
• Looking for Funding?
• Student Funding Process and FAQs
• Dolores Zohrab Liebmann Fellowship
• Eisenhower-Roberts Fellowship
• Google U.S./Canada Ph.D. Fellowship
• Battestin Fellowship
• COVES Fellowship
• Fulbright-Hays Doctoral Dissertation Research Abroad Fellowship Program
• NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program
• GRFP Spring Prep Series
• GPC Members

Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs

The Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs is dedicated to creating a University-wide focus on graduate education and postdoctoral training by establishing good communication and working relationships with graduate schools, departments, graduate students, and postdocs. We collaborate on efforts to develop intellectually-stimulating environments for research, teaching, and service and to recruit, mentor, retain, and graduate a talented and diverse community of graduate students and postdocs. We believe a successful graduate experience relies on an ecosystem of support, including excellent faculty, competitive financial support, and opportunities for professional and career development.

EXPLORE OUR PROGRAMS

• School of Architecture
• Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy
• Biomedical Sciences
• School of Education
• Darden School of Business
• School of Data Science
• Graduate School of Arts and Sciences
• McIntire School of Commerce Graduate Programs
• School of Medicine
• School of Nursing 
• School of Engineering and Applied Science
• School of Law

Upcoming Events

Phd plus business in society 10: putting it all together, grad thesis slam final competition, 2024 postdoctoral research symposium.

The 2024 Postdoc Symposium is the annual event that showcases the work of UVA postdocs of all disciplines.

UVA and Charlottesville Guide

Funding and Opportunities

Related links.

Explore Professional Development Opportunities with PhD+

UVA School of Nursing Ranked Among Top in Country by U.S. News & World Report

The University of Virginia’s nursing school has again earned top national rankings in a prestigious annual report issued by U.S. News & World Report. 

According to U.S. News & World Report’s 2024-2025 Best Graduate Schools guide, the UVA School of Nursing ranks 18 th  overall and 11 th  among public institutions for its master’s degree programs and 31 st  overall and 22 nd  among public institutions for its Doctor of Nursing Practice programs.

“These rankings represent the incredible work being accomplished by faculty, students, and others within the UVA School of Nursing,” said K. Craig Kent, MD, chief executive officer at UVA Health and executive vice president for health affairs at UVA. “I want to congratulate our faculty, students and staff on these rankings, which acknowledge the outstanding contributions being made to patient care, research, healthcare education, and our community.”

UVA Provost Ian Baucom expressed pride in the School of Nursing’s national standing. “It is both the talent and dedication of our faculty and students in the School of Nursing that leads UVA to consistently achieve this level of national prestige,” said Baucom. 

Of note, the UVA School of Nursing’s Nurse Practitioner-MSN Adult Gerontology Acute Care program was also ranked for the first time by U.S. News & World Report and is 7 th  in the nation.

“I am incredibly proud of the environment we’ve built to nurture the next generation of skilled, resilient, compassionate nurses,” said Marianne Baernholdt, PhD, MPH, RN, FAAN, dean of the School of Nursing and UVA Health’s dean of Professional Nursing. “Rankings provide a small window into the incredible work that our students and faculty are doing every day to care for patients and contribute to the nursing profession.” 

U.S. News & World Report ranks nursing schools based on factors that include peer assessments, research funding, faculty resources and the selectivity of the programs. 

Categories: All Releases , Awards , Editors' Picks

Public Information Officer

Email  |  [email protected]

Phone  |  434.924.5770

Latest News

• School of Nursing Community  /  For Students  /  Registrar - School of Nursing  / Handbooks

University Catalogs

All students please refer to the University catalogs:

• Undergraduate Record
• Graduate Record

PhD Students

School of Nursing

Ph.d. in nursing.

Three-year full-time or four-year part-time online program for bachelor's-prepared students

Two-year full-time or three-year part-time online program for master's-prepared students

The Ph.D. in nursing prepares graduates with advanced research skills and expertise to become teacher-scholars, nurse scientists or policymakers. Graduates earn a Ph.D. in one of two concentrations .

Concentrations

Biobehavioral research.

The Ph.D. in nursing with a concentration in biobehavioral research prepares nurse scholars to conduct scientific research on how biological systems and behavioral contributors affect health.

Degree details, application information and financial information for the biobehavioral research concentration

Health Care Quality Research

The Ph.D. in nursing with a concentration in health care quality research prepares nurse scholars to conduct scientific research on how health care systems and care delivery affect patient outcomes.

Degree details, application information and financial information for the health care quality research concentration

U.S. News Releases 2024 Best Graduate Programs Rankings

Find the top-ranked graduate schools in business, education, law, nursing and other fields.

U.S. News Ranks Best Graduate Schools

Photo Library

To help prospective graduate students find a school that fits their needs, U.S. News released the 2024 rankings for multiple graduate fields.

Depending on the job or field, earning a graduate degree may lead to higher earnings, career advancement and specialized skill development.

But with several types of degrees and hundreds of graduate schools, it can be difficult to narrow down the options. To help prospective graduate students find a school that fits their needs, U.S. News released its 2024 Best Graduate Schools rankings today. They evaluate business, education, fine arts, health, law, library studies, nursing, public affairs, science, and social sciences and humanities graduate programs. Medical school and engineering rankings are not being released at this time.

A notable methodology change includes a new salary indicator based on profession in the business rankings.

Additionally, for the first time in four years, there are new rankings for a blend of doctoral and master's programs in audiology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, pharmacy, nurse midwifery and speech-language pathology. Graduate programs in nurse anesthesia and social work are also ranked for the first time since 2016 and 2022, respectively. Those and other specialty rankings are based on reputation ratings from scholars at other surveyed schools.

Read each program's specific methodology for the most detailed explanations of all the changes. The rankings are one source of information among many that prospective college students can use to inform their college decision. Below is a summary of the top-ranked schools in four major graduate program areas:

Best Law Schools

Best business schools, best nursing schools, best education schools.

Among the top 10 law schools . Yale Law School in Connecticut and California-based  Stanford Law School shared the top spot again. The  University of Chicago Law School in Illinois maintained its No. 3 rank, followed by a four-way tie at No. 4: Duke University School of Law in North Carolina, Harvard Law School in Massachusetts, the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School and the University of Virginia School of Law .

Columbia Law School in New York ranked No. 8 again, while there was a three-way tie for No. 9: New York University School of Law , Northwestern University's Pritzker School of Law in Illinois and the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor Law School .

Looking beyond the top 10, multiple law schools moved up in the rankings. William & Mary Law School in Virginia, for instance, jumped nine spots from a tie at No. 45 to a five-way tie at No. 36.

U.S. News also ranked 13 law specialties: business/corporate, clinical training, constitutional, contracts/commercial, criminal, dispute resolution, environmental, health care, intellectual property, international, legal writing, tax and trial advocacy. (You can filter by specialty on the  main ranking page .)

Meanwhile, in the  part-time law school rankings – which consists of law schools with at least 20 part-time students enrolled in fall 2022 and fall 2023 – the top three stayed the same. The  Georgetown University Law Center in Washington, D.C., is once again at the top while D.C.-based  George Washington University Law School , now No. 3, switched places with the  Fordham University School of Law in New York City, which claimed second place.

Previously ranked at No. 3 and No. 6 respectively, the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School and Stanford Graduate School of Business took the top spot in this year's full-time MBA program rankings . Northwestern's Kellogg School of Management and the University of Chicago's Booth School of Business moved down from their previous places in the top two to tie at No. 3.

While the top 10 mostly consists of the same schools as last year, both the Haas School of Business at the University of California, Berkeley and the University of Virginia's Darden School of Business joined those ranks this year. UC Berkeley rose from a three-way tie at No. 11 to a three-way tie at No. 7, while UVA moved up four spots from No. 14 to a tie at No. 10.

Farther down the full-time MBA rankings, there were some big changes. For example, Pitt's Joseph M. Katz Graduate School of Business soared 39 spots from a tie at No. 86 to a tie at No. 47.

Meanwhile, the very top of the part-time MBA rankings looks similar to last year, with the same schools in the top 5: UChicago, UC Berkeley, Northwestern, NYU's Leonard N. Stern School of Business and the Anderson School of Management at the University of California—Los Angeles. But UChicago took the No. 1 spot from UC Berkeley this year.

Moving up from No. 2, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing in Maryland tied with Emory University's Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing in Georgia to claim the top spot in this year's nursing master's program rankings. Duke University School of Nursing in North Carolina climbed up by one to claim the third spot.

Johns Hopkins ranked No. 1, as it did last year, in the Doctor of Nursing Practice program rankings. George Mason University School of Nursing in Virginia – which reported more graduates and resources per faculty – soared from a four-way tie at No. 39 to take the No. 2 spot. Duke tied with the University of Washington School of Nursing to round out the top three.

Duke also ranked No. 1 in all of the ranked nursing master's nursing practice specialties, including administration, family, both acute and primary care adult gerontology, and mental health.

Once again, Teachers College, Columbia University in New York was No. 1 in the graduate education schools rankings. This year, however, it tied with the University of Wisconsin—Madison School of Education , which climbed two spots.

The University of Michigan—Ann Arbor's School of Education dropped from the top position to tie with the UCLA School of Education and Information Studies at No. 3. UCLA was previously tied at No. 7.

U.S. News also ranks nine education specialties, with the College of Education at Michigan State University claiming the top spot in the following categories: curriculum and instruction, educational administration, elementary teacher education, higher education administration and secondary teacher education.

Searching for a grad school of education? Access our  complete rankings  of Best Graduate Schools.

Grad Degree Jobs With $100K+ Salaries

Tags: students , graduate schools , medical school , business school , law school , education graduate school , engineering graduate school , MBAs , nursing programs

You May Also Like

Questions women mba hopefuls should ask.

Haley Bartel April 12, 2024

Law Schools With the Highest LSATs

Ilana Kowarski and Cole Claybourn April 11, 2024

MBA Programs That Lead to Good Jobs

Ilana Kowarski and Cole Claybourn April 10, 2024

B-Schools With Racial Diversity

Sarah Wood April 10, 2024

Law Schools That Are Hardest to Get Into

Sarah Wood April 9, 2024

Ask Law School Admissions Officers This

Gabriel Kuris April 9, 2024

Grad School Housing Options

Anayat Durrani April 9, 2024

MBA Scholarships

Sammy Allen April 4, 2024

Special Master's Programs and Med School

Renee Marinelli, M.D. April 2, 2024

15 Famous Fulbright Scholars

Cole Claybourn April 1, 2024

Schools of Law, Education, Business and Nursing Soar in U.S. News Ranking

• By Jane Kelly , [email protected]

(Photo by Sanjay Suchak)

University of Virginia graduate schools earned superior national marks in U.S. News and World Report’s new 2024 rankings of graduate programs, released Tuesday.

UVA’s School of Law remains the country’s No. 1 public law school and jumped four spots to No. 4 overall, in a tie with Duke University, Harvard University and the University of Pennsylvania.

The School of Education and Human Development cracked the top 10 for the first time in more than two decades. The school climbed eight spots to tie for No. 8, with five other schools including Harvard, New York and Stanford universities. Among public institutions, the school tied for No. 4. It remains the No. 1 graduate school of education in Virginia.

Public Law School

Public Education School

UVA’s Darden School of Business moved up four spots to No. 10 overall, in a tie with Dartmouth College’s Tuck School of Business. Darden is the No. 2 public school, after the University of California, Berkeley’s Haas School of Business, which rated No. 7 overall in a three-way tie.

Specialty Programs Receive Great Marks

Specialty programs in UVA’s School of Nursing also earned high marks.

The school’s Master of Science in Nursing program is the No. 11 public program and ranked No. 18 overall. Its Doctor of Nursing Practice program is the No. 22 public program.

In a new specialty subranking, “Best Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Programs,” the school is in a six-way tie for No. 7 in the country.

All nine individual programs in UVA’s School of School of Education and Human Development included in the rankings also landed in the top 20, with most improving their standing from last year:

• Curriculum and Instruction (No. 18)
• Educational Administration (No. 7)
• Education Policy (No. 11)
• Education Psychology: (No. 17)
• Elementary Teacher Education (No. 10)
• Higher Education (No. 18)
• Secondary Teacher Education (No. 5)
• Special Education (No. 4)
• Student Counseling (No. 13)

UVA’s School of Law, with many others, stopped supplying data to U.S. News beginning with its 2023 graduate school ranking cycle because deans said the outlet’s categorizations were unreliable and not fully representative of the educational experience.

U.S. News said it surveyed almost 200 law schools accredited by the American Bar Association and reported that 144 responded.

According to U.S. News, “All statistical data used to calculate the overall rankings aggregated students and faculty from any full-time and part-time J.D. programs.”

Monday afternoon, U.S. News said that it “received and is currently reviewing queries from some graduate schools, including whether and to what extent affiliated institutions were considered in the bibliometric data used in the 2024 Best Medical Schools and 2024 Best Engineering Schools rankings, and which accrediting body was used as a source of reference for the 2024 Best Clinical Psychology Programs rankings.

“As a result, we have made the decision to delay the publication of the 2024 Best Medical Schools, Best Engineering Schools and Best Clinical Psychology Program rankings until such time that we can appropriately address these questions,” it said.

Media Contact

University News Senior Associate Office of University Communications

[email protected] (434) 243-9935

Article Information

April 15, 2024

You May Also Like

UVA, Monticello Honor Three for Efforts in Citizenship, Architecture and Law

Tree Planting Honors Nancy Takahashi on Founder’s Day

The Nature of Being Human: How Photojournalists Bring the World to You

Best Nursing Schools: State-by-State Guide 2024

Posted: March 4, 2024 | Last updated: March 4, 2024

Choosing the right school is crucial if you embark on a nursing career. Our comprehensive guide spotlights the top nursing school in each U.S. state for 2024. From prestigious programs to hidden gems, discover where you can pursue excellence in nursing education and kickstart a rewarding healthcare career.

Alabama: University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) School of Nursing

A pioneer in nursing education, research, and patient care, the UAB School of Nursing provides diverse programs from BSN to DNP and PhD. Specializing in Family Nurse Practitioner and Nursing Informatics, it fosters nurse leaders through cutting-edge facilities and extensive clinical collaborations in Birmingham and beyond.

Alaska: University of Alaska Anchorage School of Nursing

University of Alaska Anchorage’s School of Nursing excels in training nurses for Alaska’s distinct healthcare demands, particularly in rural and underserved regions. ADN, BSN, and MSN programs, including remote learning, prioritizes cultural proficiency and evidence-based methods. Graduates are equipped to thrive in varied healthcare settings across the state.

Arizona: University of Arizona College of Nursing, Tucson

In Tucson, the University of Arizona College of Nursing has varied nursing programs, from BSN to PhD. Renowned for pioneering research in cancer prevention, health disparities, and chronic illness management, it emphasizes evidence-based practice and patient-centered care. Its cutting-edge simulation labs and extensive clinical collaborations train students to serve a heterogeneous population. 

Arkansas: Arkansas State University School of Nursing, Jonesboro

Arkansas State University’s Jonesboro School of Nursing provides multiple nursing programs, spanning BSN to DNP degrees. Emphasizing critical thinking and compassionate care prepares students for successful nursing careers. It tackles Arkansas Delta’s unique healthcare challenges with a rural health focus, fostering graduates esteemed for clinical excellence in varied healthcare settings.

California: University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Nursing

UCSF School of Nursing stands out for its research, education, and clinical practice excellence. With advanced programs like Master’s, PhD, and DNP degrees, it specializes in Family Health, Pediatrics, and Psychiatric/Mental Health. Led by expert faculty, students access extensive clinical training and research opportunities within UCSF’s renowned health system.

Colorado: University of Colorado College of Nursing

Situated on the Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora, the University of Colorado College of Nursing offers a comprehensive range of programs, from BSN to DNP and Ph.D., including innovative pathways like VBSN – the Veteran to Bachelor of Science in Nursing. It has topline research initiatives and clinical practice opportunities.

Connecticut: Yale School of Nursing, Yale University

Renowned for excellence in education, research, and clinical practice, Yale School of Nursing provides MSN, DNP, and PhD programs. Integrating nursing with public health and primary care equips graduates to tackle healthcare challenges holistically. Rich in social justice and health equity, its curriculum fosters nurses devoted to enhancing community well-being.

Delaware: University of Delaware School of Nursing

BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD degrees at the School of Nursing at the University of Delaware incorporate evidence-based practice and interprofessional education into its curriculum. Located in Newark, its research initiatives address critical societal healthcare issues. The students gain clinical experiences in diverse settings, from urban hospitals to community health centers.

Florida: University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies, Coral Gables

In Coral Gables, the University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies provides nursing programs spanning BSN to DNP and PhD degrees. Well-known for pioneering research in health disparities, HIV/AIDS, and family health, it guarantees its students advanced clinical simulations and global health experiences.  

Georgia: Emory University Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing

In Atlanta, Emory’s Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing is a top-notch institution for nursing education. The school is recognized for its commitment to addressing health disparities and promoting patient-centered care. Students can engage in clinical practice and research in a city with some of the nation’s leading healthcare facilities.

Hawaii: University of Hawaii at Manoa School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene

University of Hawaii’s School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene at Manoa gives students a unique perspective on health care in diverse and multicultural communities. All its programs, from the undergraduate to doctoral level, thrive on the integration of traditional and holistic health practices.

Idaho: Boise State University School of Nursing

Boise State University’s School of Nursing addresses the rising need for proficient nursing practitioners. Prioritizing innovative healthcare approaches, leadership, and patient-focused services, the school blends clinical training, research, and community involvement. Students gain distinct clinical exposure through extensive collaborations with healthcare entities statewide, particularly in rural areas.

Illinois: Chicago College of Nursing, University of Illinois

The College of Nursing at the University of Illinois at Chicago excels in research and teaching. Offering various programs from essential to advanced degrees, it addresses urban health issues like unequal health and long-term sickness. Students gain valuable experience in the city environment, preparing them for various healthcare roles.

Indiana: Purdue University-Main Campus, West Lafayette

Purdue University’s School of Nursing in West Lafayette’s BSN, MSN, and DNP programs optimize science and evidence-based practice. Known for its research in rural health, chronic disease management, and health promotion, it equips students with critical thinking skills and clinical expertise. Nursing students benefit from high-tech labs and varied clinical experiences statewide.

Iowa: Mount Mercy University, Cedar Rapids

Mount Mercy University in Cedar Rapids provides CCNE-accredited nursing programs, with options for new nurses and R.N.s pursuing career advancement. Acclaimed for holistic patient care, leadership, and community health focus, small class sizes ensure individualized attention. Ethical practice and compassionate service are core, supported by robust clinical partnerships that deliver diverse healthcare experiences.

Kansas: Baker University, Baldwin City

Baker University in Baldwin City offers BSN degrees through a nursing program with traditional and accelerated options. It highlights clinical proficiency, patient advocacy, leadership, and lifelong learning and integrates liberal arts, critical thinking, and faith into nursing practice. Clinical experiences across healthcare settings prepare students thoroughly for the nursing profession.

Kentucky: Frontier Nursing University, Versailles

Versailles’ Frontier Nursing University is a trailblazer in graduate nursing education, focusing on midwifery and family nursing. Specializing in MSN and DNP programs through distance learning, it trains nurse-midwives and family nurse practitioners for rural care. Combining online classes with local clinical placements, FNU revolutionizes nursing education.

Louisiana: Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University, Baton Rouge

Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University deliver nursing education (ASN, BSN, MSN, DNP) rooted in Franciscan values – service, compassion, and respect. Its programs focus on holistic care, ethical leadership, and social justice. Students gain practical experience in the affiliated health system, readying them for varied nursing and leadership positions.

Maine: University of Maine School of Nursing

The School of Nursing at the University of Maine in Orono prepares students for the complexities of modern health care through BSN, MSN, and DNP programs. It has a supportive learning environment with access to cutting-edge simulation labs and clinical experiences in multiple settings across the state.

Maryland: Johns Hopkins School of Nursing

Based in Baltimore, Johns Hopkins School of Nursing excels globally in nursing education, research, and practice. Its BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD programs advocate innovation and global health improvement. Focused on evidence-based and interprofessional education, it prepares students to lead and tackle complex health issues.

Massachusetts: Boston College, William F. Connell School of Nursing, Chestnut Hill

The educational programs at Boston College’s Connell School of Nursing in Chestnut Hill merge clinical practice with ethics and leadership in nursing. Its emphasis on holistic care in the Jesuit tradition, access to advanced simulation labs, and clinical experiences in Boston’s top health institutions prepare students for complex health challenges.

Michigan: University of Michigan School of Nursing

The University of Michigan School of Nursing in Ann Arbor delivers BSN to PhD programs, focusing on health promotion, chronic condition management, and health care technology. Supported by top-notch facilities and extensive clinical partnerships throughout Michigan, it’s a game-changer for students wanting to take on industry leadership roles.

Minnesota: St. Catherine University, St. Paul

St. Catherine University in St. Paul’s BSN, MSN, and DNP degrees focus on women’s health, ethical leadership, and social justice in health care. Integrating liberal arts with professional studies, the university fosters compassionate, skilled nurses. Students gain extensive clinical experiences through partnerships with Twin Cities’ top health organizations.

Mississippi: University of Mississippi Medical Center School of Nursing

The School of Nursing at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson has a range of programs on primary care, health disparities, and rural health. As part of Mississippi’s only academic health science center, the school provides students with extensive clinical training opportunities in competitive settings.

Missouri: Saint Louis University, School of Nursing

Saint Louis University’s School of Nursing in St. Louis is celebrated for prioritizing educational innovation, research, and community service. Emphasizing evidence-based practice, health technology, and interprofessional education, SLU prepares leaders to enhance health care and patient outcomes, supported by a leading simulation center and clinical alliances.

Montana: Montana State University College of Nursing

Montana State University’s College of Nursing, with its main campus in Bozeman, offers BSN, MSN, and DNP programs. It is distinguished for addressing rural and frontier communities’ healthcare needs and stresses primary care, mental health, and community health. The college’s multiple campuses across the state facilitate access to nursing education

Nebraska: Bryan College of Health Sciences, School of Nursing, Lincoln

With its BSN and MSN programs, Bryan College of Health Sciences in Lincoln is known for its hands-on learning approach, small class sizes, and individualized student support. Its nursing programs emphasize critical thinking, patient-centered care, and community health. Their high-tech simulation labs ensure the graduates are well-prepared for professional nursing practice.

Nevada: University of Nevada, Las Vegas School of Nursing

The School of Nursing at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, with its BSN, MSN, and DNP programs, stands out for its focus on community health, nursing education, and managing chronic conditions. UNLV’s nursing school is committed to advancing healthcare through cutting-edge research.

New Hampshire: University of New Hampshire Department of Nursing

The University of New Hampshire in Durham boasts a CCNE-accredited BSN program, an MSN program focused on clinical nurse leaders, and a Direct Entry Master’s in Nursing for non-nurses. UNH supports students through innovative teaching and extensive clinical experiences in New England’s contrasting healthcare settings.

New Jersey: Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey School of Nursing

Rutgers School of Nursing, spanning Newark, New Brunswick, and Blackwood, presents BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD programs. It excels in urban health and health disparities research, preparing students for nursing leadership and health policy roles. Strategic clinical partnerships in New Jersey ensure varied practice experiences.

New Mexico: University of New Mexico College of Nursing

The University of New Mexico College of Nursing in Albuquerque, spanning BSN to DNP and PhD, emphasizes rural health, health disparities, and Native American health. It melds traditional and modern educational approaches and excels in training nurses for New Mexico’s varied urban and rural communities.

New York: Columbia University School of Nursing, New York

Columbia University’s School of Nursing in New York City leads in innovative education and research, focusing on global health challenges, health equity, and enhanced healthcare access. It provides comprehensive clinical training across advanced nursing fields in New York’s top hospitals, equipping students for excellence in diverse healthcare environments.

North Carolina: Duke University School of Nursing, Durham

Duke University School of Nursing in Durham, North Carolina, excels globally in nursing education, research, and practice. Its ABSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD programs include an innovative curriculum, advanced facilities, and robust clinical partnerships. Focusing on leadership, global health, and evidence-based practice, Duke prioritizes diversity and inclusion.

North Dakota: Mayville State University

Mayville State University, located in North Dakota, provides an online BSN completion program for R.N.s with an associate degree or nursing diploma. The program enhances clinical, management, and leadership skills through personalized education. It fosters nurses for advanced healthcare roles by presenting flexible options for working professionals.

Ohio: Ohio State University College of Nursing

Ohio State University College of Nursing in Columbus excels in nursing education, providing BSN to DNP and PhD programs. It leads to health promotion, chronic disease, and evidence-based research. Focused on wellness and prevention, OSU equips graduates for leadership in healthcare, academia, and research sectors.

Oklahoma: Northeastern State University, Tahlequah

Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, provides a BSN program focusing on science, critical thinking, and clinical skills. With an emphasis on cultural competence, community health, and patient-centered care, NSU prepares nurses for diverse populations. Its program includes extensive clinical experiences, ensuring graduates’ readiness for practice.

Oregon: Bushnell University

Bushnell University in Eugene, Oregon, delivers a BSN program that molds compassionate and skilled nurses, emphasizing holistic care, ethics, and leadership. Grounded in Christian values, it merges faith with healthcare, promoting spiritually and culturally sensitive care. The curriculum, rich in clinical experiences, prepares graduates to serve patients and communities empathetically.

Pennsylvania: University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing

The University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, an Ivy League institution in Philadelphia, provides extensive nursing programs from BSN to PhD. Renowned for leadership in education, research, and practice, it specializes in pediatrics, women’s health, and gerontology. Penn Nursing’s focus on innovation and interprofessional education prepares students for healthcare reform leadership.

Rhode Island: University of Rhode Island College of Nursing, Kingston

Students at the University of Rhode Island College of Nursing in Kingston can pursue BSN to PhD degrees, focusing on gerontology, community health, and health disparities. The program offers a rich mix of evidence-based practice, patient-centered care, and interprofessional collaboration, with varying clinical experiences in Rhode Island and beyond.

South Carolina: University of South Carolina College of Nursing, Columbia

The University of South Carolina College of Nursing in Columbia provides BSN to PhD programs, emphasizing research, leadership, and evidence-based practice. With advanced simulation labs and wide-ranging clinical experiences, the college aims to address South Carolina’s healthcare challenges, focusing on rural health, health disparities, and chronic illness management.

South Dakota: Mount Marty University Nursing Program, Yankton

Mount Marty University in Yankton offers a BSN program prioritizing compassionate care, ethical practice, and leadership. Integrating liberal arts with nursing ensures small class sizes for a personalized education that fosters critical thinking and clinical skills, preparing graduates to serve with faith and commitment, especially in the Midwest.

Tennessee: Vanderbilt University School of Nursing

Vanderbilt University School of Nursing in Nashville provides MSN, DNP, and PhD programs, focusing on advanced nursing practice, healthcare leadership, and research. Renowned for innovative education and research, it equips students for leadership in healthcare, academia, and policy, offering extensive clinical experience through Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

Texas: University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing

The University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing provides BSN, MSN, and PhD programs centered on healthcare leadership, innovation, and evidence-based practice. Noted for its psychiatric, pediatric, and chronic illness management research, UT Austin trains graduates for advanced healthcare leadership roles, ensuring improved outcomes for diverse communities.

Utah: Brigham Young University College of Nursing, Provo

This Nursing College is known in Provo for integrating spiritual care with nursing excellence. Its BSN program and graduate certificates are designed to nurture skilled and compassionate nurses. Emphasizing the Healer’s art of holistic care, the curriculum includes disparate clinical experiences in Utah and elsewhere.

Vermont: Norwich University School of Nursing, Northfield

Norwich University’s BSN program in Northfield focuses on molding leaders in nursing and healthcare by enhancing critical thinking, communication, and clinical skills for ethical practice. With a commitment to service and innovation, its rigorous curriculum with extensive clinical experiences targets rural and underserved communities in Vermont.

Virginia: University of Virginia School of Nursing

The University of Virginia School of Nursing in Charlottesville provides BSN through PhD programs, recognized for clinical excellence, leadership, and research, focusing on health equity and reducing disparities. Students experience a challenging academic setting and gain extensive clinical exposure at the UVA Medical Center, a premier academic institution.

Washington: University of Washington School of Nursing

The University of Washington School of Nursing in Seattle excels in nursing education, research, and practice with BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD programs. It stands out in public health, community health, and health informatics, fostering innovation and excellence. Graduates are equipped to enhance healthcare systems and patient outcomes worldwide.

West Virginia: West Virginia University School of Nursing

West Virginia University School of Nursing, located in Morgantown, Charleston, and Beckley, provides BSN, MSN, and DNP programs, emphasizing rural health, chronic disease, and family health. It aims to equip students with practical experience and research and enhance healthcare access to tackle health challenges in West Virginia and similar areas.

Wisconsin: Marquette University College of Nursing, Milwaukee

Marquette University’s Nursing College in Milwaukee has BSN to PhD programs that uphold innovation, clinical excellence, and social justice. It prepares nurses for health equity advocacy, blending rigorous academics with practical experience, supported by top simulation labs and partnerships for comprehensive practicums and research in healthcare.

Wyoming: University of Wyoming Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing

With its BSN, MSN, and DNP programs, the University of Wyoming Fay W. Whitney focuses on rural and frontier health care, including primary care, mental health, and community health. Its curriculum addresses Wyoming’s unique health needs, preparing graduates for impactful roles in rural communities.

The post Best Nursing Schools: State-by-State Guide 2024 appeared first on Housely .

More for You

Donald Trump's Rambling Rally Speech Raises Questions

Ryan Gosling, 'SNL' Cast Barely Keep It Together In 'Beavis And Butt-Head' Sketch

Former undercover agent recalls infiltrating the Hells Angels: 'A dangerous game to play'

Masters 2024: Tiger Woods shares touching final handshake with Verne Lundquist on 16th hole

I'm a Senior. When Can I Stop Paying Property Taxes?

'You can't outearn stupidity': Dave Ramsey explained why teachers — with a median salary of $61K — become millionaires so often. Here's what we can learn from them

Opinion: Trump’s about to get an audience unlike any he’s had before

63% of divorcees say this is the No. 1 thing that would have saved their marriage—and it's not more money

What Is the Anduril Roadrunner? America's Latest Game-Changing Weapon

America has just reminded us there is only one world superpower

Disney World makes major change to visitor rules

Warren Buffett once explained what he'd do to turn $10,000 into a huge fortune if he were a new investor — here are 3 of his simple strategies

Kale had its moment. Its leafy cousin has more protein and fewer calories

18 Ways to Tell if Someone Has a High IQ

ABC's Stephanopoulos clashes with GOP governor over support for Trump in heated interview

34-year-old making $49,000 a month in passive income: What I always tell people who want to build successful side hustles

The Coolest Car From the Year You Were Born (1945-1995)

I Lost 50lbs With 3 Lifestyle Changes

7 CDs You Probably Owned, Threw Out and Now Are Worth Bank

This type of supplement may increase heart disease risk, new study finds

Duke School of Nursing MSN Ranking Rises in 2024 U.S. News & World Report Rankings

In the 2024 U.S. News & World Report Best Schools Rankings, the Duke University School of Nursing achieved remarkable accolades including: #3 Best Nursing Schools, Master’s and #3 Best Nursing Schools, Doctor of Nursing Practice.

Duke University School of Nursing once again ranks among the top nursing graduate-level programs in the nation. The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program at the Duke University School of Nursing is ranked #3 in the country, according to the 2024 U.S. News & World Report graduate school rankings   released Tuesday, April 9. The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program ranked #3 (tie) , while all participating specialty programs continued the trend of leading the country among graduate nursing program rankings at #1.

“Our School continues to reimagine the nursing profession and the limitless possibilities for nurses through the ongoing development of innovative offerings that set our MSN and DNP programs apart nationally and globally.”

Interim Dean Michael Relf

PhD, RN, ANEF, FAAN

“These rankings reflect the extraordinary depth of nursing expertise and educational opportunities our programs offer,” said Interim Dean Michael Relf, PhD, RN, ANEF, FAAN. “Our School continues to reimagine the nursing profession and the limitless possibilities for nurses through the ongoing development of innovative offerings that set our MSN and DNP programs apart nationally and globally. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all faculty, staff, students, and alumni who contribute to making Duke University School of Nursing a premiere destination for excellence in nursing.”

As a result of the School’s dedicated mission to advance health equity and social justice through a commitment to innovation and excellence in nurse-led models of care, these rankings reaffirm the School's position as a visionary leader in nursing education, research, and clinical practice.

U.S. News & World Report Rankings

In the 2024 U.S. News & World Report Best Schools Rankings , the Duke University School of Nursing achieved remarkable accolades:

• Best Nursing Schools, Master’s: the School is ranked #3 in this category, recognizing its outstanding master’s programs. Whether students aspire to become nurse practitioners, nurse educators, or nurse administrators, the School of Nursing provides rigorous training and mentorship.
• Best Nursing Schools, Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP):  the School claimed the #3 position (tie)  for its DNP programs. These doctoral programs empower nurses to lead in clinical practice, healthcare administration, and policy. The School of Nursing’s commitment to evidence-based practice and leadership shines through its DNP offerings.
• Best Nursing Schools, Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Leadership: Duke University School of Nursing was ranked #1 in the nation for its DNP Leadership programs, a recognition of the School’s commitment to training world-class nurses who will go on to become leaders in the healthcare industry.

Master’s Specialties

The Duke University School of Nursing offers a variety of master’s programs that excel across various specialties. Once again, several of the School’s concentrations and certificate programs received top rankings, including:

• #1 in Master's Nurse Practitioner: Adult / Gerontology, Acute Care
• #1 in Master's Nurse Practitioner: Adult / Gerontology, Primary Care
• #1 in Master's Nurse Practitioner: Family
• #1 in  Master's Nurse Practitioner: Psychiatric / Mental Health, Across the Lifespan
• #1 in  Master's Nursing Administration

For more information, visit the Duke University School of Nursing’s Rankings and Accolades page .