Best BSN Program in Every State – 2024
Written By: Editorial Staff @ NursingProcess.org
Welcome to our page with the listing of the Best BSN program in every state across the nation.
Nursing Schools listed in our list of “Best BSN Program in Every State” provide students with rigorous high-quality employable BSN education. These schools are well reputed and have a history of excellent NCLEX-RN Pass rates.
How Did we Rank the Best BSN Program in Every State?
We gathered a list of all nursing schools offering BSN programs in every state and then ranked the Best based on the following three factors:
• Average NCLEX-RN First Time Pass Rates of Recent Five Years - 40% of Overall Score
• Academic Quality (Enrollment Rate, Graduation Rate & Retention Rate) - 30% of Overall Score
• NursingProcess.org Editorial Staff Ratings and Nursing School Reputation - 30% of Overall Score
The data required for our rankings was gathered from IPEDs, State Board of Nursing Websites, U.S. News & World Report, Niche, Grad Reports, Rate My Professors and the official school websites.
FOLLOWING IS A LIST OF THE BEST BSN PROGRAM IN EVERY STATE FOR 2024
Read on to find out about the best BSN Program nearest to you in this state-by-state roll call.
#1 in Alabama
The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham ( Visit )
The University of Alabama’s BSN program is offered in its new well-equipped facility which is in close vicinity to its hospital in downtown Birmingham. Apart from its state-of-art advanced classrooms, the campus features not just one but five hospital-like laboratories. The college is also a popular choice among students for its high-quality clinical preparation, research work, and varied scholarship opportunities.
#1 in Alaska
University of Alaska Anchorage, Anchorage ( Visit )
Located in the heart of Alaska’s largest city, the University of Alaska’s BSN program offers you unparalleled access to more than 100 of its clubs and organizations, research activities, and outdoor recreation programs. To enroll in its dynamic BSN program, you can join either in the fall or spring semester. Once admitted, here you will study in small-sized classrooms where the student to faculty ratio is not more than 15:1.
#1 in Arizona
The University of Arizona, Tucson ( Visit )
Graduating from the University of Arizona’s bachelor’s in nursing will not only open doors to advanced career opportunities but will also provide you with greater levels of job security. From high in-demand clinical skills to preparing you with complete training to sit for the RN licensure exam; the college aims at providing you with well-rounded academic support. Here you will also have access to several financial aid and scholarship options so that you can earn your BSN without breaking the bank.
#1 in Arkansas
Harding University, Searcy ( Visit )
Just like the other popular traditional BSN programs in the country, this one from Harding University trains you to deliver culturally sensitive, evidence-based nursing care to patients and families across the lifespan. The college is also a military-friendly university and can be an ideal choice for veterans for the many military academic and scholarships it offers. What’s more? To make your education affordable, you can seamlessly sign-up for its various financial aid options as here, 96% of undergraduate students receive financial assistance in some form.
#1 in California
California State University - Long Beach, Long Beach ( Visit )
Being one of the oldest BSN programs, California State University has more than 50 years of experience in the field of nursing. At this nationally renowned nursing school, you will receive complete nursing training & career counseling, and reading & writing assistance, allowing you to reach your career goals effectively. Along with all the core nursing and laboratory courses that you will take, here, you also have the flexibility to pursue elective courses from any field.
#1 in Colorado
Colorado State University - Pueblo, Pueblo ( Visit )
At Colorado State University, most of its faculty members hold the highest degree in the field of nursing, allowing you to study under highly credentialed instructors. Its collaboration with Smithsonian Institution offers you the benefit of participating in any of its rigorous summer internships. To earn your BSN, you can enroll in either one of its two pathways; the basic admission pathway and the pre-nursing option. The path you choose will depend on the number of pre-requisite courses that you have completed.
#1 in Connecticut
Sacred Heart University, Fairfield ( Visit )
Upon graduating from Sacred Heart University’s bachelor’s in nursing, you will be able to implement nursing care with compassion and empathy. The degree prepares you with clinical experiences in real-time settings such as extended care facilities, local clinics, daycare facilities, and acute care centers, in addition to the lab simulations. Furthermore, to make yourself globally competent, you will also have the opportunity to enroll in several ‘study abroad’ options in countries like Ireland, Australia, and Ghana.
#1 in Delaware
University of Delaware, Newark ( Visit )
Ever thought of pursuing your BSN in a personalized learning environment? If yes, then the University of Delaware should be on your list. Here you will study in small-sized classrooms where the student to faculty ratio is just 12:1. You can graduate from this program by conveniently taking up its fast-paced accelerated track or its traditional track. Since service to the community is a major goal of this program, you will also participate in several service-learning programs, community service fares, and research activities.
#1 in Florida
The University of Tampa, Tampa ( Visit )
The University of Tampa boasts of an impressive 100% passing rate of its BSN graduates on the NCLEX-RN examination on their first attempt. Here, admissions are on a rolling basis, allowing you the flexibility to apply anytime. To offer you extensive clinical exposure, the college has partnered with over 200 medical facilities in the Tampa Bay region.
#1 in Georgia
University of North Georgia, Dahlonega ( Visit )
Did you know that the University of North Georgia has a 100% job placement rate for its BSN graduates? Apart from thoroughly preparing you for the NCLEX-RN examination, the college ensures you land your dream job by training you in a hospital-like simulation center and offering you several international service-learning opportunities. Furthermore, here you also have the mobility of taking few classes online so that you can study from any location.
#1 in Hawaii
University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu ( Visit )
The University of Hawaii at Manoa’s nursing baccalaureate degree can be completed in as little as three years through its fast-paced cohort program. From the beginning of your journey here, you will receive one-on-one guidance from its academic & support team so that you can fulfill your educational goals seamlessly. The university is also recognized by U.S News and World Report as one of the ‘Best Nursing schools’ in the country.
#1 in Idaho
Boise State University, Boise ( Visit )
Beginning in the fall and spring semesters, Boise State University’s BSN program comes with multiple start dates so that you can start your bachelor’s education whenever you are ready. This unique program maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of just 8:1 in all clinical courses so that you can gain hands-on experience under the close supervision of your instructors. Additionally, here you will have access to several scholarship opportunities so that you can earn your BSN at minimum cost.
#1 in Illinois
Trinity Christian College, Palos Heights ( Visit )
If you’re looking for maximum hands-on training as a part of your BSN education, then Trinity Christian College is the right choice for you. Here 100% of its students gain real-world experience by participating in internships. The college also boasts of a 98% job placement rate for its graduates. Once admitted, you will have easy access to friendly instructors, state-of-the-art simulation labs, compact classrooms, and a curriculum rooted in Christian values.
#1 in Indiana
Indiana University Northwest, Gary ( Visit )
The BSN curriculum of Indiana University Northwest is offered through a generic 4-year plan and a more relaxed 5-year option. The college is one of the most affordable universities in Indiana and offers you access to over 200 scholarship opportunities. Your bachelor’s training begins in the fall semester regardless of the track you choose.
#1 in Iowa
University of Iowa, Iowa City ( Visit )
Being among the premier BSN programs in the country, it is no surprise that the University of Iowa’s college of nursing has collaborated with the University of Iowa Hospitals: which is one of the nation’s biggest network of research hospitals. Admissions here are offered through two options. While direct admissions can be a hassle-free way to enroll high-achieving high school students, the standard admissions option is ideal for second-degree and transfer students.
#1 in Kansas
Baker University, Baldwin City ( Visit )
With an impressive job placement rate, 95% of Baker University’s BSN graduates are employed within just three months of graduation. The training aims at empowering you with advanced patient care skills through close-knit classes, highly qualified instructors, and a comprehensive curriculum. If you wish to gain international exposure, then you can also participate in the Streams of Hope program, where you will be trained to offer medical support and educate locals on the usage of essential medical equipment & few clinical practices in Kenya.
#1 in Kentucky
Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green ( Visit )
Nestled in Bowling Green, Western Kentucky University is strategically located a drive away from Louisville and Nashville. Apart from having an excellent location, the college has also received several recognitions from U.S News and World Report for being one of the best public schools and colleges for military students in the country. Here, BSN students are accepted in the fall and spring semesters.
#1 in Louisiana
Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University, Baton Rouge ( Visit )
Established in 1923, Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University is a Catholic, non-profit university and is also one of the oldest Franciscan universities in the country. Its BSN in nursing focuses on service learning through its partnerships with more than 130 medical facilities. The college also offers guaranteed admission to all students who fulfill the program prerequisites.
#1 in Maine
University of New England, Biddeford ( Visit )
Since 2013, the University of New England’s BSN students have consistently performed well on the NCLEX-RN examination. After enrolling here, you will be exposed to an exceptional bi-campus experience where you will take the first two years of classes at its Biddeford campus. In your final two years, you will study at the Portland Campus that is located close to Portland’s prominent hospitals, health care centers, and community care facilities.
#1 in Maryland
Towson University, Towson ( Visit )
Towson University is the 12th largest public university system in the country. Here, you will study under highly qualified faculty, 78% of whom have the most advanced degree in their field. Despite its massive campus size, the college uses an individualized teaching approach by training you in small-sized classrooms. This BSN program aims at strengthening your clinical and patient care skills through simulation education at local hospitals and its in-house advanced Simulation Learning Center.
#1 in Massachusetts
University of Massachusetts - Dartmouth, North Dartmouth ( Visit )
Nursing can be quite a complex field, keeping this in mind the faculty at the University of Massachusetts have designed a rigorous BSN curriculum that prepares you to transition from a student to a nurse leader seamlessly. To join this program, you can apply in the fall semester. During your journey here, you will progress from practicing in the college’s simulation lab in the first year to working on-field in real-time hospitals, long-term care centers, and local clinics. You will also have the opportunity to take up additional advanced courses, engage in research activities and earn credits by studying abroad.
#1 in Michigan
Wayne State University, Detroit ( Visit )
Unlike the other top BSN programs in the state, the one from Wayne State University can be completed in just 3 years. Enrolling here requires you to complete your application process in the fall. After joining, you will be taking classes on-campus and participating in several community-focused activities, research projects, and theoretical classes. Since practical training is essential to become a nurse leader, the college provides students with guaranteed clinical placements every semester.
#1 in Minnesota
University of Northwestern – St. Paul, Saint Paul ( Visit )
The BSN program of the University of Northwestern is very comprehensive and requires you to complete 134-138 credits. Courses can be taken through a traditional pathway or the accelerated pathway. Regardless, of the track you choose, you will be studying through a blended format offering you a perfect balance of on-campus and online classes. Applications here are accepted year-round so that you have the flexibility to apply whenever you are ready.
#1 in Mississippi
Mississippi University for Women, Columbus ( Visit )
For many years Mississippi University for Women has consistently ranked among the top public universities in the southeast region by U.S News and World Report. The college believes that high-quality education need not be expensive and therefore has one of the most affordable tuition fees in the state. Graduating from this BSN requires you to earn a total of 130 credits.
#1 in Missouri
College of the Ozarks, Point Lookout ( Visit )
College of the Ozarks has received recognition from the U.S News and World Report for offering the highest level of innovation, social mobility, and value to its BSN students. This Christian-based, character-driven BSN education prepares you with a strong foundation in Christian values, and liberal arts courses in addition to core nursing training.
#1 in Montana
Montana Technological University, Butte ( Visit )
Montana Technological University is popularly known in the community for producing some of the highest-paid graduates in the state. Its campus is located in the center of the beautiful Rocky Mountains so that you can complete your education in a serene environment. Its BSN was also the first 4-year degree approved by the state, making it one of the oldest nursing programs in Montana. Here, after completing your application process in April or November, you will have the convenience of completing your pre-requisite courses on a part-time basis.
#1 in Nebraska
University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha ( Visit )
At the University of Nebraska Medical Center, you have the option of completing the first two years of your BSN from any preferred location. Furthermore, apart from its local collaborations, the university also has over 50 international partnerships giving you the benefit of engaging in academic and research activities in around 21 nations. By using active learning methods, its highly experienced instructors train you to have a lucrative career in nursing.
#1 in Nevada
University of Nevada - Las Vegas, Las Vegas ( Visit )
University of Nevada’s traditional pre-licensure BSN traditional prorgam can be completed in as few as 16 months. This traditional BSN program is sought-after by most students for its affordability; as here more than 76% of students receive financial aid and scholarships. Here you can also earn your BSN through its flexible online Accelerated track designed for second degree students and its RN-BSN track which is designed for ADN-prepared nurses.
#1 in New Hampshire
University of New Hampshire - Main Campus, Durham ( Visit )
With a 97% job placement rate, through the University of New Hampshire’s BSN training landing your ideal job has never been easier. You will study under instructors who will mentor you individually throughout your academic journey. Apart from just earning your BSN, the program prepares you with real-life nursing skills through its student organizations, nursing tours, internships, and clinical practicums.
#1 in New Jersey
Ramapo College of New Jersey, Mahwah ( Visit )
As New Jersey’s leading public liberal arts school, Ramapo College of New Jersey is committed to building a robust foundation of evidence-based nursing knowledge and skills. Once enrolled, you will learn one-on-one with its friendly instructors, allowing you to build personalized relationships with your faculty. Depending on your level of education in the field of nursing, you can sign-up for its traditional BSN, BSN transfer, or RN to BSN formats.
#1 in New Mexico
The University of New Mexico, Albuquerque ( Visit )
The University of New Mexico offers you direct entry into its BSN training. This means that you will gain direct admissions into this program even before you complete your general education requirements, provided you fulfill certain criteria. Admissions here are accepted once each year in the fall semester. Once you start your education, you can also take up additional honors elective courses that prepare you with additional research knowledge, keeping you steps ahead of your competition.
#1 in New York
Farmingdale State College State University of New York , Farmingdale ( Visit )
The Farmingdale State College State University of New York offers its BSN program through a 4-year long Pre-licensure format and a short-term Advance Standing 3-year option. If you’re looking for affordable education, then you should consider the one from this college as an option, as here 62% of students receive financial aid in some form or the other.
#1 in North Carolina
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill ( Visit )
At the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 97% of its BSN students are employed within 3 months of graduation. In addition to having an impressive job placement rate, the college also boasts of exceptional first-time pass rates of 98% on the NCLEX-RN examination. The curriculum is delivered through its traditional BSN track and accelerated BSN pathway. In addition to these two tracks, the college also offers a Military pathway that is specially designed for military students.
#1 in North Dakota
North Dakota State University, Fargo ( Visit )
The BSN is North Dakota State University’s most comprehensive nursing program and comprises a year of pre-requisite courses and three years of core nursing courses. Earning your bachelor’s degree here requires you to take 3-years of on-campus classes. After enrolling, you will engage in several patient care experiences in the areas of acute care, long-term care, critical care, public health, and mental health.
#1 in Ohio
Ohio University, Athens ( Visit )
If you’re browsing through one of the most affordable BSN programs in the nation, then the one from Ohio university might be the right choice for you. The college emphasizes offering you with debt-free education and therefore hasn’t increased its tuition fees from 4 years. Besides being affordable, upon enrolling you will have the opportunity to study face-to-face with your faculty in close-knit classrooms where the student to instructor ratio is not more than 16:1.
#1 in Oklahoma
University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City ( Visit )
The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center’s OU college of nursing is recognized by U.S News and World Report for having one of the best nursing programs in the country. Its BSN curriculum comprises 60 semester hours of core nursing courses that are delivered through online classes, on-campus lectures, and clinical experiences. To begin your academic journey here you can enroll in the fall semester.
#1 in Oregon
Oregon Health & Science University, Portland ( Visit )
At the Oregon Health and Science University, you will complete your BSN education under the guidance of acclaimed instructors, many of whom are nationally and globally recognized scholars and practitioners. With a strong belief in achieving student diversity, the college has a holistic admission system to support a diverse student body and create a climate of inclusion.
#1 in Pennsylvania
Waynesburg University, Allentown ( Visit )
Waynesburg University’s BSN program holds a high reputation in the state for offering high value and excellence in education. The coursework prepares you with the needed technical skills through hospital-like scenarios and research opportunities. Consistency in quality is the main focus of this program, therefore it is no surprise that the college has had a 100% pass rate on the NCLEX-RN examination for 8 consecutive years. Once enrolled, here you will also benefit from getting access to early clinical experiences from the very beginning of your sophomore year.
#1 in Rhode Island
University of Rhode Island, Kingston ( Visit )
The BSN training of Rhode Island university offers you all-around training to take up lucrative roles in the areas of maternity, surgical, psychiatric, pediatric, and geriatric nursing. Here you will be directed by instructors, 86% of whom hold terminal degrees. Additionally, by maintaining small-sized classrooms with a student-to-faculty ratio of 16:1, the college offers its BSN students the advantage of forging a personalized relationship with their instructors.
#1 in South Carolina
University of South Carolina - Columbia, Columbia ( Visit )
Being among South Carolina’s flagship BSN programs, at the University of South Carolina, your academic training will be full of clinical experiences in the form of research activities, simulation classes, and real-world clinical rotations. Along with your BSN, you can also enroll in the college’s ‘Smart Start Nursing Program’ that will not only give you access to several ‘study abroad’ and leadership opportunities, but you will also gain direct admission into upper division BSN courses.
#1 in South Dakota
South Dakota State University, Brookings ( Visit )
Did you know that South Dakota State University is the state’s largest university? After joining its BSN program, you can also become a part of its 4 nursing clubs and organizations to explore your interests and network with fellow nursing students. The BSN curriculum establishes a strong foundation in social, physical & biological sciences as well as core nursing courses.
#1 in Tennessee
Lincoln Memorial University, Harrogate ( Visit )
To enroll in Lincoln Memorial University’s BSN program at its main campus in Harrogate you can apply in the fall semester. Studying here comes with the benefit of one-on-one learning experiences as the average class size comprises of only 14 students. Additionally, you will be studying under highly qualified instructors, holding a doctorate or the highest degree in nursing.
#1 in Texas
Texas State University, San Marcos ( Visit )
Texas State University’s BSN program started enrolling students in 2010. This newly constructed program has become the best in the state within a short time frame and offers you a thorough understanding of nursing care. If you need financial assistance you can also apply for a scholarship from the various funding opportunities offered by the college.
#1 in Utah
Brigham Young University, Provo ( Visit )
The BSN curriculum of Brigham Young University can be completed in as few as 3 years. The college offers clinical training in more than 250 locations. Additionally, you will also benefit from several ‘study abroad’ options. To earn this degree, you will be taking 16 credits worth of classes each semester on a full-time basis. As hands-on training is a vital part of your BSN education, you will also be spending 12 hours each week on practical learning.
#1 in Vermont
The University of Vermont, Burlington ( Visit )
At the University of Vermont, you will have access to more than 10,000 internship opportunities each year. With a 96% rate of employment of its BSN students, you can seamlessly reach your career goals. As a part of this rigorous curriculum, you will be completing 594 hours of clinical practice under the supervision of your instructors. In your senior year, after completing your theoretical and simulation training you will also be engaging in a 126-hour clinical practical in a real-time healthcare setting.
#1 in Virginia
Radford University, Radford ( Visit )
Radford University was recently ranked by U.S News and World Report for having one the best undergraduate programs in the country. Upon enrolling, you will be completing your BSN training at its main campus in Radford that is located in the New River Valley in the vicinity of the tranquil Blue Ridge Mountains. To start your journey, here you should complete your admission process in the fall semester.
#1 in Washington
University of Washington - Seattle Campus, Seattle ( Visit )
Ever thought of completing your BSN program in just two years? University of Washington’s dynamic bachelor’s in nursing has now made it achievable. Although a short-term curriculum, the coursework is as comprehensive as any 4-year undergraduate training. The college has partnered with more than 700 healthcare facilities in the country, where you will undergo almost 1000 hours of practical training.
#1 in West Virginia
University of Charleston, Charleston ( Visit )
Just like the other top traditional BSN programs in the country, the one from the University of Charleston takes 4 years to complete. The college has more than 50 years of experience in the field of nursing and has a high reputation in the community for offering excellence in education ever since. Here you can also take advantage of its diverse scholarship and financial aid options to have a debt-free education.
#1 in Wisconsin
Carroll University, Waukesha ( Visit )
Carroll University believes in making your career aspirations a reality, therefore here all BSN students receive financial assistance in some form. Additionally, studying here comes with the advantage of studying under faculty members who hold advanced degrees in the field of nursing. Lastly, to enhance your learning experience you can also take up courses through the college’s ‘Cross-Cultural Experience Component’ where you will be traveling on nursing missions, and learn about diverse cultures regionally, nationally, and globally.
#1 in Wyoming
University of Wyoming, Laramie ( Visit )
Beginning in the fall semester, the University of Wyoming’s BSN degree promises you a rewarding career in nursing through is high-quality coursework and clinical experiences. Its Laramie Campus is stationed between two mountain ranges, giving you easy access to outdoor leisure activities and a calming learning environment. Graduating from this program will leave you with a thorough understanding of patient care technologies, leadership & management, and medical information systems.
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