Best Nursing Programs in the US

Whether you're fresh out of high school or you're aiming to be a top-tier nurse, picking the right school is really important. With so many programs across the United States, it can be hard to decide where to start. There are so many things to consider like student life, the faculty members, or even residence halls. Stuff like student organizations, the student body, and degree programs can distract you.

Nurses work in hospitals, clinics, schools, or even out in the community. It is a rewarding career where you get to help people every day, but it also takes a lot of hard work and learning. Before you can care for others, you need the right education and training.

With so many nursing programs across the United States, it can feel overwhelming trying to figure out which one is the best fit. There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to nursing education, which is why it’s so important to explore your options.

These programs are competitive and rigorous. Some schools are more about hands-on training, while others are more research focused. People recognize some schools for their research, while others earn recognition for their clinical training or high NCLEX pass rates. Some are part of universities with lots of resources and large classes, others might be smaller and more personalized.

Whether you’re just starting out or you're already a nurse, these schools offer high-quality programs that can help you reach your goals.

It can be hard to cut through all the noise and find what you're looking for. No matter where you are in your journey, this article is a great place to start your search. Let’s look at some of the top nursing schools in the country.

10 Best Nursing Programs in the US

1. University of Pennsylvania

Acceptance Rate: 5.4%

Held the #1 global ranking in Nursing by QS World University Rankings for nine consecutive years (2015–2024); now ranked #2 in 2025.
Known for its rigorous curriculum taught by world-renowned faculty.
Leads in healthcare advancement through research and innovation.
Offers a strong interdisciplinary approach across healthcare fields.
Best suited for highly motivated students interested in research and leadership.

2. John Hopkins University

Acceptance Rate: 5.7%

Ranked #3 for nursing in the world by QS World University Rankings, 2025.
Competitive, rigorous, and research-intensive environment.
Students consistently achieve very high NCLEX pass rates.
Offers diverse clinical opportunities and access to top-tier faculty researchers.
A great fit for students seeking both research and clinical depth.

3. University of Washington

Acceptance Rate: 43%

Ranked #6 for nursing in the world by QS World University Rankings, 2025.
Globally recognized for excellence in education, clinical practice, and research.
Strong focus on innovation and faculty-student research collaboration.
Offers a supportive environment despite its competitive nature.
Ideal for students aiming to engage in advanced research and real-world clinical work.

4. Duke University

Acceptance Rate: 4.8%

Ranked #7 for nursing in the world by QS World University Rankings, 2025.
Widely ranked among the best nursing schools in the nation.
Offers access to advanced resources and expert faculty.
Located on a large campus with opportunities for collaboration across health disciplines.
Leads in research addressing a variety of healthcare challenges.
Ideal for students looking to impact the future of healthcare.

5. University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill

Acceptance Rate: 15.3%

Ranked #9 for nursing in the world by QS World University Rankings, 2025.
Consistently ranks among the top public nursing schools in the U.S.
Offers a wide range of degree options and experienced faculty support.
Strong focus on research and involvement in multiple areas.
Promotes collaboration with nearby top health schools.
A perfect fit for students who value interdisciplinary teamwork.

6. Emory University

Acceptance Rate: 14.5%

Fosters strong student–professor connections and a collaborative learning environment.
Consistently high NCLEX pass rates among students.
Offers a wide range of graduate specialty programs.
Prepares students for careers through partnerships with 500+ clinical sites.
Competitive and intense—great for students ready for a challenge.

7. The Ohio State University

Acceptance Rate: 50.82%

Known for research, innovation, and practical clinical training.
Clinical opportunities through the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center.
Boasts very high first-time NCLEX pass rates.
Offers a wide range of nursing programs at different levels.
Ideal for students seeking strong clinical experience with research support.

8. University of Iowa

Acceptance Rate: 84.67%

Strong employment outcomes—most graduates find jobs within 6 months.
Offers faculty support and focuses on evidence-based practice.
Recognized for top-ranked DNP and MSN programs.
Prepares students well for professional careers in nursing.
Great for students looking for job readiness and academic quality.

9. University of Pittsburgh

Acceptance Rate: 50%

Students gain over 1,200 hours of complex clinical experience.
Known for highly qualified faculty—100% of DNP faculty hold doctorates.
Strong emphasis on research and long-standing reputation in nursing education.
Consistently ranks high among nursing schools nationwide.
Best for students looking for an established, research-driven program.

10. Boston College

Acceptance Rate: 12.6%

Nationally ranked undergraduate and graduate programs.
Blends nursing science with Jesuit liberal arts education.
Strong NCLEX pass rates—98% for undergrads, 100% for grads.
High employment rate within one year of graduation.
Great for students looking to combine holistic education with clinical excellence.

Nursing Scholarships

Undergraduate Nursing

RN to BSN

Dashanna K. McNeil Memorial Scholarship

Accelerated Nursing

Graduate Nursing

Conclusion

While you aren’t limited to these options, these 10 schools provide a great place to start. Are you looking for a competitive school? You may be looking for a school that's more research focused. Or maybe it's one that's more about the clinical experience.

The schools featured in this blog are some of the best in the country. People recognize them for their academics, hands-on training, and commitment to preparing students for success. Students have the opportunity to learn in real-world environments. They gain valuable hands-on experience and build relationships with mentors and peers alike.

Explore more colleges based on your preferences using Kollegio’s college search feature.

The foundation you build at the right nursing school can open doors for your entire career. These programs shape compassionate, skilled professionals who take on the challenges of modern healthcare.

The best nursing school for you is the one that fits your goals, learning style, and values. Research each program further and talk to current students or alumni if you can. Take time to explore your options, ask questions, and visit campuses. Make sure to consider what kind of environment will help you thrive.

While rankings and reputations are helpful, what matters most is finding a program that aligns with what you're looking for. I hope through this article, you have a clearer idea of what you're looking for in a program. Even if you're still unsure, you have a general idea or direction of where you want your pathway to lead.

By Seline Perera