If you’re planning to pursue a healthcare career, nursing remains one of the most impactful and in-demand fields in the U.S., with nearly five times as many nurses as physicians nationwide.
Over 194,500 new registered nursing jobs are projected to open each year across the next decade, with a 6% overall growth rate expected by 2033.
That means competition for top programs is increasing, and your college admissions strategy matters more than ever.
To help you find the right fit, weāve compiled a 2026 guide to the best nursing schools in the U.S.
10 Best Nursing Schools in 2026
We selected the best nursing schools of 2026 using the latest data from the U.S. Department of Education, along with verified reviews from students and alumni.
To qualify, each school had to confer at least one bachelorās degree and five or more total nursing awards annually.
We also factored in NCLEX pass rates, return on investment, academic quality, student outcomes, and campus experience.
Here are the best nursing universities that stood out across all metrics.
1. University of Pennsylvania
Location: Philadelphia, PA | Duration: 4 years | Delivery Mode: Campus
As the top-ranked nursing school in the U.S., the University of Pennsylvania offers one of the most competitive and well-rounded BSN programs available. Students benefit from an Ivy League education that blends intensive clinical training, research access, and a tight-knit academic community.
Key Stats:
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 94.83%
- Acceptance Rate: 6%
- Undergraduate Tuition: $53,166
- Graduation Rate: 97%
- Application Deadline: January 5
- Accreditation: Yes
Pennās School of Nursing fosters a culture of experimentation and collaboration. With access to four undergraduate schools on one campus, students are encouraged to explore diverse academic interests alongside their nursing training.
The program also features a state-of-the-art simulation lab and personalized instruction through a 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio. For future nurse leaders and researchers, Penn provides the foundation to innovate in healthcare from day one.
2. Duke University
Location: Durham, NC | Program Length: 16 months (Accelerated BSN) | Delivery Mode: Campus
Duke Universityās Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) is designed for students with a non-nursing degree who want to transition quickly into the healthcare field. The 16-month program includes over 800 hours of hands-on clinical experience and is backed by Dukeās globally recognized healthcare research network.
Key Highlights:
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 98.39%
- Acceptance Rate: 7%
- Undergraduate Tuition: $48,294 (for four semesters)
- Graduation Rate: 97%
- Application Deadline: January 5
- Accreditation: Yes
Dukeās School of Nursing consistently ranks among the top programs in the country for its academic rigor, research output, and clinical excellence.
With small cohort sizes and a prime location in North Carolinaās Research Triangle, students benefit from close mentorship, world-class facilities, and strong job placement post-graduation.
3. Johns Hopkins University
Location: Baltimore, MD | Duration: Varies (MSN) | Delivery Mode: Campus
Johns Hopkins University stands as a global leader in research-driven healthcare education, particularly for those pursuing advanced roles in nursing. Although it does not offer a traditional undergraduate nursing degree, its Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program is a top choice for students holding non-nursing bachelor’s degrees who want to enter the field at a high level.
Quick Facts:
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 92.31%
- Acceptance Rate: 7.5%
- Undergraduate Tuition: N/A (Graduate tuition: $70,794)
- Graduation Rate: 94%
- Application Deadline: November 1st or July 1st
- Accreditation: Yes
The MSN curriculum emphasizes leadership, evidence-based practice, and hands-on clinical immersion. Students benefit from the universityās deep research legacy, state-of-the-art simulation labs, and strong clinical partnerships with world-class hospitals.
4. Emory University
Location: Atlanta, GA | Duration: 4 years | Delivery Mode: Campus
Emory University offers a top-tier nursing program rooted in liberal arts and driven by a mission to serve humanity. With two campuses, one in bustling Atlanta and another in Oxford, Emory blends academic excellence with access to one of the largest healthcare systems in the Southeast.
Quick Facts:
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 94.12%
- Acceptance Rate: 11%
- Undergraduate Tuition: $67,080
- Graduation Rate: 92%
- Application Deadline: January 1
- Accreditation: Yes
Students benefit from Emoryās strong clinical partnerships and small student body (approx. 7,300 undergrads), making for a close-knit, academically rigorous environment.
With 140 nursing graduates annually, the program is selective yet impactful, consistently producing nurses who earn a median of $83,826 five years after graduation. Thatās nearly double the national average.
Backed by a $50,828 average aid package and a vibrant academic community, Emory is an ideal choice for students seeking a well-rounded, high-ROI nursing degree at a school deeply committed to the public good.
5. University of Michigan
Location: Ann Arbor, MI | Duration: 4 years | Delivery Mode: Campus
The University of Michiganās School of Nursing blends over a century of experience with a modern, research-driven approach to healthcare education. Its traditional four-year BSN program welcomes both first-year and transfer students, preparing graduates through rigorous clinical placements and access to eight advanced MSN pathways.
Quick Stats:
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 98.95%
- Acceptance Rate: 18%
- Undergraduate Tuition: $17,800 (upper-division in-state)
- Graduation Rate: 92%
- Application Deadline: February 1
- Accreditation: Yes
With over 13,000 alumni shaping care systems worldwide, Michiganās nursing network is one of the strongest in the nation. Students benefit from the universityās expansive research opportunities, top-ranked medical campus, and Ann Arborās vibrant healthcare ecosystem.
6. Georgetown University
Location: Washington, DC | Duration: 4 years | Delivery Mode: Campus
Located in the heart of Washington, DC, Georgetown University offers a direct-entry BSN program that allows high school seniors to secure their nursing spot before even stepping on campus. With 882 hours of clinical training in some of the nationās top hospitals, students gain unmatched real-world experience in one of the most policy-influential cities in the world.
Quick Stats:
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 100%
- Acceptance Rate: 17%
- Undergraduate Tuition: $61,872
- Graduation Rate: 94%
- Application Deadline: February 1
- Accreditation: Yes
Georgetownās program is grounded in both Jesuit values and academic excellence, making it ideal for students who want to combine compassionate care with rigorous clinical education.
The universityās renowned honors track and location near national health agencies also provide opportunities for leadership, research, and policy involvement, positioning graduates to make a meaningful impact across healthcare settings.
7. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
Location: Los Angeles, CA | Duration: 4 years | Delivery Mode: Campus
UCLAās School of Nursing offers one of the West Coastās most prestigious BSN programs ā blending rigorous academics with hands-on clinical experience in the heart of Los Angeles. Students have access to top medical centers, diverse patient populations, and a strong pathway into graduate-level leadership roles.
Quick Stats:
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 97.73%
- Acceptance Rate: 14%
- Undergraduate Tuition: $16,546 (In-state) | $31,026 (Out-of-state)
- Graduation Rate: 92%
- Application Deadline: December 1st
- Accreditation: Yes
As part of the broader UCLA campus ā known for innovation, research, and global impact ā nursing students benefit from interdisciplinary opportunities and a thriving academic community. The programās strong ROI and exceptional clinical partnerships make it a strategic choice for future healthcare leaders.
8. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC)
Location: Chapel Hill, NC | Duration: 4 years | Delivery Mode: Campus
UNC Chapel Hillās School of Nursing combines rigorous academics with immersive clinical training in one of the countryās top public universities. Students benefit from partnerships with leading North Carolina hospitals and a curriculum that emphasizes research, leadership, and service to community health.
Quick Stats:
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 95.7%
- Acceptance Rate: 23%
- Undergraduate Tuition: $8,980 (In-state) | $23,936 (Out-of-state)
- Graduation Rate: 90%
- Application Deadline: January 15
- Accreditation: Yes
With a strong focus on public service and practical learning, UNC prepares its nursing students to become impactful caregivers, advocates, and innovators across clinical and community settings.
9. New York University (NYU)
Location: New York, NY | Duration: 4 years | Delivery Mode: Campus
Located in the heart of Manhattan, NYUās Rory Meyers College of Nursing offers one of the most globally connected nursing programs in the U.S. Students can choose from a traditional BSN, accelerated BSN, or RN-to-BSN pathway, all built on rigorous academics and a commitment to clinical excellence in diverse urban settings.
Quick Stats:
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 89.8%
- Acceptance Rate: 9%
- Undergraduate Tuition: $60,438
- Graduation Rate: 88%
- Application Deadline: January 5
- Accreditation: Yes
With clinical placements across New York Cityās top hospitals and a student body that represents over 130 countries, NYU is an ideal launchpad for students seeking a nursing education that is both comprehensive and globally minded.
10. University of Pittsburgh
Location: Pittsburgh, PA | Duration: 4 years | Delivery Mode: Campus
The University of Pittsburghās School of Nursing delivers one of the most comprehensive undergraduate nursing programs in the country. Located in a major medical hub, students benefit from direct clinical experience at UPMC, one of the top-ranked healthcare systems in the U.S. The school offers both a traditional BSN and an accelerated BSN option for career changers.
Quick Stats:
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 93.45%
- Acceptance Rate: 24%
- Undergraduate Tuition: $19,080 (in-state) | $35,130 (out-of-state)
- Graduation Rate: 83%
- Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
- Accreditation: Yes
With a strong emphasis on leadership, patient care, and evidence-based practice, Pitt equips future nurses to thrive in fast-paced clinical environments and make an immediate impact in the field.
More Top-Ranked Nursing Schools (11ā100)
Beyond the top 10, many other U.S. nursing schools stand out for their academic rigor, clinical access, and student outcomes. Here’s a curated list of top-performing programs ranked 11ā100 based on NCLEX pass rates, tuition data, and acceptance metrics.
| Rank | School Name | Location | NCLEX Pass Rate | Tuition (Average) | Acceptance Rate | Accreditation |
| 11 | University of Washington | Seattle, WA | 93% | $39,114 | 55% | Yes |
| 12 | University of Florida | Gainesville, FL | 92% | $28,659 (Out-of-state) | 37% | Yes |
| 13 | University of Texas at Austin | Austin, TX | 95% | $40,032 | 32% | Yes |
| 14 | Ohio State University | Columbus, OH | 95% | $34,989 (Out-of-state) | 54% | Yes |
| 15 | Case Western Reserve University | Cleveland, OH | 96% | $56,730 | 30% | Yes |
| 16 | University of Illinois Chicago | Chicago, IL | 94% | $33,508 (Out-of-state) | 55% | Yes |
| 17 | University of Virginia | Charlottesville, VA | 94% | $52,843 | 24% | Yes |
| 18 | University of Minnesota | Minneapolis, MN | 92% | $32,520 | 44% | Yes |
| 19 | Villanova University | Villanova, PA | 94% | $60,768 | 29% | Yes |
| 20 | Rush University | Chicago, IL | 97% | $53,040 | 37% | Yes |
| 21 | University of Miami | Miami, FL | 91% | $53,682 | 33% | Yes |
| 22 | University of Wisconsin-Madison | Madison, WI | 90% | $37,785 | 51% | Yes |
| 23 | University of Pittsburgh | Pittsburgh, PA | 93.45% | $35,130 (Out-of-state) | 24% | Yes |
| 24 | University of Maryland | Baltimore, MD | 95% | $36,681 | 48% | Yes |
| 25 | Boston College | Chestnut Hill, MA | 94% | $62,326 | 26% | Yes |
| 26 | University of Kentucky | Lexington, KY | 93% | $30,680 (Out-of-state) | 56% | Yes |
| 27 | University of Kansas | Lawrence, KS | 91% | $28,034 (Out-of-state) | 93% | Yes |
| 28 | University of Arizona | Tucson, AZ | 90% | $35,307 | 85% | Yes |
| 29 | University of San Francisco | San Francisco, CA | 92% | $53,472 | 70% | Yes |
| 30 | University of Tennessee | Knoxville, TN | 90% | $31,664 | 79% | Yes |
| 31 | University of Connecticut | Storrs, CT | 94% | $39,894 | 49% | Yes |
| 32 | Texas Christian University | Fort Worth, TX | 91% | $53,980 | 47% | Yes |
| 33 | University of South Carolina | Columbia, SC | 91% | $33,928 (Out-of-state) | 68% | Yes |
| 34 | Indiana University Bloomington | Bloomington, IN | 92% | $38,633 (Out-of-state) | 80% | Yes |
| 35 | University of Oklahoma | Norman, OK | 90% | $27,069 | 70% | Yes |
| 36 | University of Colorado Denver | Denver, CO | 89% | $36,246 | 67% | Yes |
| 37 | University of Massachusetts Amherst | Amherst, MA | 93% | $35,472 (Out-of-state) | 65% | Yes |
| 38 | University of Alabama | Tuscaloosa, AL | 89% | $31,460 | 80% | Yes |
| 39 | Clemson University | Clemson, SC | 91% | $39,502 | 62% | Yes |
| 40 | Loyola University Chicago | Chicago, IL | 94% | $48,700 | 67% | Yes |
| 41 | Florida State University | Tallahassee, FL | 90% | $21,673 | 36% | Yes |
| 42 | George Washington University | Washington, D.C. | 93% | $58,550 | 41% | Yes |
| 43 | University of Iowa | Iowa City, IA | 91% | $30,036 | 83% | Yes |
| 44 | University of Delaware | Newark, DE | 94% | $36,090 (Out-of-state) | 63% | Yes |
| 45 | Michigan State University | East Lansing, MI | 90% | $40,726 | 71% | Yes |
| 46 | University of Missouri | Columbia, MO | 91% | $29,005 | 78% | Yes |
| 47 | DePaul University | Chicago, IL | 92% | $43,464 | 68% | Yes |
| 48 | University of North Florida | Jacksonville, FL | 91% | $23,890 | 61% | Yes |
| 49 | University of Utah | Salt Lake City, UT | 89% | $31,840 | 66% | Yes |
| 50 | Northeastern University | Boston, MA | 92% | $58,805 | 18% | Yes |
| 51 | University of Nebraska Medical Center | Omaha, NE | 91% | $29,380 (Out-of-state) | 58% | Yes |
| 52 | Baylor University | Waco, TX | 90% | $50,232 | 45% | Yes |
| 53 | Drexel University | Philadelphia, PA | 91% | $57,136 | 77% | Yes |
| 54 | University of Kentucky | Lexington, KY | 91% | $30,680 | 56% | Yes |
| 55 | Texas A&M University | College Station, TX | 90% | $38,969 | 67% | Yes |
| 56 | Creighton University | Omaha, NE | 92% | $44,524 | 71% | Yes |
| 57 | University of Rochester | Rochester, NY | 92% | $59,344 | 29% | Yes |
| 58 | Louisiana State University | Baton Rouge, LA | 89% | $28,052 | 73% | Yes |
| 59 | Marquette University | Milwaukee, WI | 91% | $45,766 | 82% | Yes |
| 60 | Arizona State University | Tempe, AZ | 88% | $28,336 | 88% | Yes |
| 61 | University of Nevada, Las Vegas | Las Vegas, NV | 89% | $24,486 | 81% | Yes |
| 62 | University of North Carolina Greensboro | Greensboro, NC | 89% | $24,537 | 90% | Yes |
| 63 | University of South Florida | Tampa, FL | 91% | $17,324 | 49% | Yes |
| 64 | Gonzaga University | Spokane, WA | 92% | $50,935 | 61% | Yes |
| 65 | University of Nebraska-Lincoln | Lincoln, NE | 90% | $26,862 | 78% | Yes |
| 66 | Stony Brook University | Stony Brook, NY | 90% | $28,375 | 44% | Yes |
| 67 | University of Arkansas | Fayetteville, AR | 89% | $25,168 | 82% | Yes |
| 68 | Xavier University | Cincinnati, OH | 89% | $42,230 | 74% | Yes |
| 69 | University of Hawaii | Honolulu, HI | 87% | $34,218 | 58% | Yes |
| 70 | University of Mississippi | Oxford, MS | 88% | $25,760 | 88% | Yes |
| 71 | University of Oregon | Eugene, OR | 87% | $36,785 | 83% | Yes |
| 72 | University of Louisville | Louisville, KY | 88% | $28,410 | 65% | Yes |
| 73 | Eastern Michigan University | Ypsilanti, MI | 89% | $29,736 | 85% | Yes |
| 74 | Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center | Lubbock, TX | 88% | $25,850 | 68% | Yes |
| 75 | University of Central Florida | Orlando, FL | 91% | $22,467 | 44% | Yes |
| 76 | Illinois State University | Normal, IL | 88% | $27,109 | 81% | Yes |
| 77 | Rutgers University | New Brunswick, NJ | 91% | $32,189 | 60% | Yes |
| 78 | Seton Hall University | South Orange, NJ | 89% | $46,880 | 66% | Yes |
| 79 | West Virginia University | Morgantown, WV | 89% | $26,568 | 84% | Yes |
| 80 | University of Denver | Denver, CO | 89% | $54,819 | 58% | Yes |
| 81 | University of New Mexico | Albuquerque, NM | 87% | $23,292 | 66% | Yes |
| 82 | Seattle University | Seattle, WA | 89% | $50,328 | 81% | Yes |
| 83 | SUNY Downstate Medical Center | Brooklyn, NY | 88% | $19,990 | 46% | Yes |
| 84 | University of Wyoming | Laramie, WY | 88% | $22,490 | 94% | Yes |
| 85 | University of North Dakota | Grand Forks, ND | 89% | $21,560 | 82% | Yes |
| 86 | University of Montana | Missoula, MT | 87% | $27,180 | 92% | Yes |
| 87 | University of South Dakota | Vermillion, SD | 88% | $24,580 | 86% | Yes |
| 88 | University of Toledo | Toledo, OH | 87% | $30,790 | 94% | Yes |
| 89 | Appalachian State University | Boone, NC | 88% | $22,680 | 80% | Yes |
| 90 | University of Houston | Houston, TX | 87% | $28,819 | 65% | Yes |
| 91 | SUNY Buffalo | Buffalo, NY | 88% | $28,705 | 63% | Yes |
| 92 | University of Vermont | Burlington, VT | 87% | $43,890 | 67% | Yes |
| 93 | University of Memphis | Memphis, TN | 87% | $25,378 | 95% | Yes |
| 94 | Sam Houston State University | Huntsville, TX | 88% | $21,130 | 85% | Yes |
| 95 | California State University Fullerton | Fullerton, CA | 88% | $18,780 | 52% | Yes |
| 96 | University of Nevada, Reno | Reno, NV | 87% | $24,472 | 88% | Yes |
| 97 | Wright State University | Dayton, OH | 88% | $20,496 | 96% | Yes |
| 98 | Missouri State University | Springfield, MO | 88% | $23,500 | 87% | Yes |
| 99 | Old Dominion University | Norfolk, VA | 87% | $30,280 | 87% | Yes |
| 100 | Boise State University | Boise, ID | 87% | $24,988 | 82% | Yes |
Letās Get You Into the Best Nursing School for You
Becoming a nurse is a challenging but deeply rewarding path. The school you choose plays a major role in shaping your clinical skills, leadership potential, and long-term success.
Thatās where Empowerly comes in.
Our expert college counselors help students identify nursing programs that align with their goals, strengths, and interests. With personalized support, you can confidently take the next step toward a meaningful career in healthcare.
