Points of interest…
- Rankings weigh net price, graduation rates, and long-term earnings.
- Public in-state BSN net price can fall below $12,000.
- NCLEX first-time pass rates signal readiness for licensure.
Virginia's 29+ ranked nursing programs span public research universities, private colleges, and community colleges, with net prices ranging from about $4,600 to over $23,000 after aid.
That spread means cost-conscious students can find affordable ADN pathways that feed into RN-to-BSN programs, while those targeting top hospitals can invest in four-year programs with strong clinical pipelines.
Program-level earnings data is still limited, but institution-wide medians hint at the range: from roughly $60,000 for some private and community college graduates to over $86,000 for University of Virginia alumni. With licensing hinging on first-time NCLEX pass rates, choosing a program with a strong track record remains a make-or-break decision.
Top Nursing Schools in Virginia: 2027 Rankings
These 2026 Virginia nursing rankings highlight programs where cost, student outcomes, and graduation metrics align. Because each card uses institution-wide graduation data rather than program-specific nursing completion data, compare programs as part of the larger school picture. Use the filters and format labels to quickly spot online, campus, and hybrid options that fit your schedule.
Factors considered
- First-year retention as a core indicator
- Student-to-faculty ratio heavily weighted
- Net price after aid
- Post-completion earnings potential
- Regional cost-of-living adjustments
Data sources
- BEA state price parities, used to adjust tuition — bea.gov
- College Scorecard post-completion earnings data — collegescorecard.ed.gov
- Program-level records maintained in house
- Original research on individual programs
- National Center for Education Statistics (IPEDS) — nces.ed.gov
| Rank | School | Location | Net price | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Centra College | Lynchburg, VA | ~$13,000/yr (est.) | Career-advancing RNs needing online completion | |
Centra College is a Central Virginia health-system college owned by Centra Health, offering an online RN-to-BSN for working registered nurses and a campus-based associate degree in nursing. The BSN track can be completed in as little as 12 months full time or 2 years part time, while the ADN pathway includes clinical rotations at Centra Lynchburg General Hospital and Centra Virginia Baptist Hospital. The school's workforce focus makes it especially relevant for nurses already employed in the Centra Health region.
| |||||
| #2 | University of Virginia | Charlottesville, VA | ~$24,000/yr (est.) | Virginia residents seeking research-driven BSN | |
University of Virginia offers a selective, in-person BSN with multiple entry pathways, including a traditional four-year track, a three-year transfer option, and a two-year accelerated transfer program. Students train in the Clinical Simulation Learning Center and complete clinical rotations across five specialty areas, with study-abroad options in Australia and New Zealand. The school also offers a 24-month direct-entry Clinical Nurse Leader MSN for college graduates who want to become registered nurses. CCNE accredited
CCNE accredited
CCNE accredited
ACEN accredited
| |||||
| #3 | George Mason University | Fairfax, VA | $15,000 – $20,000/yr (est.) | Northern Virginia students needing metro clinicals | |
George Mason University's School of Nursing is anchored in Northern Virginia's high-demand healthcare market, placing students in clinical settings across the National Capital area. The Traditional BSN is a four-year pre-licensure pathway that starts nursing courses in the first year, while the Accelerated Second Degree BSN is a 12-month option for students who already hold a bachelor's degree. Mason's public-university tuition and metro D.C. clinical network make it a common choice for Northern Virginia students. CCNE accredited
CCNE accredited
| |||||
| #4 | Chamberlain University-Virginia | Vienna, VA | ~$33,000/yr (est.) | ||
Chamberlain University's Tysons Corner campus offers an accelerated three-year BSN with a Fast Track option that can finish in under three years. The program has no prerequisites and reviews applicants with a 2.4 GPA plus HESI A2, ACT, SAT, or TEAS scores. Nursing students train in the SIMCARE CENTER and Virginia hospitals, with third-year specialty clinical rotations available in emergency, home health, nephrology, perioperative, and oncology nursing. Military benefits
| |||||
| #5 | Standard Healthcare Services-College of Nursing | Falls Church, VA | ~$36,000/yr (est.) | ||
Standard Healthcare Services-College of Nursing in Falls Church operates a hybrid LPN-to-RN transition program that combines online lectures with on-campus skills labs and clinical rotations. The associate of applied science in nursing takes about 60 weeks and is built for licensed practical nurses who want to sit for the NCLEX-RN. The college reports an 80% licensure pass rate and an 80% job placement rate.
| |||||
| #6 | Eastern Virginia Career College | Fredericksburg, VA | |||
Eastern Virginia Career College offers a 46-week hybrid associate of applied science in nursing at its Fredericksburg and Richmond campuses. Coursework pairs classroom theory with lab practice and hands-on clinical time in real care settings, and the program includes anatomy, physiology, English, math, humanities, and behavioral science. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam.
| |||||
| #7 | University of Mary Washington | Fredericksburg, VA | $21,000/yr (est. net price) | ||
University of Mary Washington's BSN completion program is designed for registered nurses with an associate degree who want to earn a bachelor's while working. The curriculum integrates UMW's liberal arts foundation with the AACN Essentials and includes clinical reasoning, evidence-based practice, genetics, informatics, and interprofessional teamwork. Students can finish in as little as one year, with full-time or part-time pacing and eight-week course blocks. CCNE accredited
| |||||
| #8 | Virginia Commonwealth University | Richmond, VA | ~$23,000/yr (est.) | ||
Virginia Commonwealth University's Traditional B.S. in Nursing is a three-year, full-time program in Richmond. Students complete clinical rotations at VCU's Magnet-designated medical center, community health settings, and rural hospitals. The program is ranked #40 by U.S. News and prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN. CCNE accredited
| |||||
| #9 | Hampton University | Hampton, VA | $25,000 – $30,000/yr (est.) | ||
Hampton University, a historically Black university in Hampton, offers a fully online accelerated RN-to-BSN for working registered nurses, with 12-month or two-year completion options. The curriculum covers leadership, community health, nursing informatics, and evidence-based research. Students can transfer up to 55 general education credits, and the program builds from an active RN license and associate degree. CCNE accredited
| |||||
| #10 | Randolph-Macon College | Ashland, VA | ~$28,000/yr (est.) | ||
Randolph-Macon College offers a direct-entry BSN that lets freshmen begin nursing courses in their first year. Students complete 500 direct care hours in clinical rotations at VCU Health and Bon Secours, train in a simulation center, and move through a cohort of 40. The college reports a 100% job placement rate and provides individualized NCLEX coaching. CCNE accredited
| |||||
How We Rank Virginia Nursing Schools
Our rankings give you a quick, data-backed way to compare Virginia nursing schools on the practical outcomes that shape your career and finances. Instead of relying on reputation or selectivity alone, we look at how each school performs on a mix of affordability, student success, and early-career earnings.
Four Pillars of the Score
- Net price: The average amount students actually pay after grants and scholarships, drawn from federal data. This provides a clearer picture than sticker tuition.
- Institution-wide graduation rate: This is the percentage of all first-time, full-time undergraduates who finish a degree, not just nursing students. A strong overall graduation rate signals supportive campus systems.
- Post-graduation earnings: Median earnings of former students who received federal aid, measured several years after graduation. Higher earnings suggest programs that prepare graduates for well-paying roles.
- Median debt: The typical federal loan debt upon graduation. Lower debt loads mean less financial strain as you start your nursing career.
What the Data Actually Tells You
These numbers are averages and school-wide snapshots, not personal guarantees. Net price varies by family income and aid eligibility; your own cost may differ. The graduation rate reflects the entire institution, so a nursing program with small cohorts could have different outcomes. Use the figures as comparisons, not precise predictions.
What’s Not in the Rankings
We do not factor in NCLEX pass rates because those are tracked and published separately by the Virginia Board of Nursing. You can find detailed NCLEX data in the dedicated section below. Additionally, reputation surveys, acceptance rates, and subjective reviews are never part of the score.
Accreditation as the Starting Point
Every school listed on this page holds recognized nursing accreditation from either the CCNE or ACEN. Accreditation is a baseline requirement, not a ranking weight, because all programs must meet it to sit for licensure. If a program isn’t accredited, it won’t appear here at all.
Virginia BSN Tuition & Cost Comparison
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs in Virginia vary widely in cost, from public universities offering in-state tuition under $12,000 to higher out-of-state rates. Net price, which accounts for financial aid, often paints a more realistic picture of affordability, while median graduate debt and early-career earnings help evaluate return on investment.
| School | In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | Net Price | Median Graduate Debt | Median 10-Year Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Virginia's College at Wise | $11,780 | $28,010 | $9,210 | $16,750 | $45,325 |
| Radford University | $12,548 | $25,633 | $14,578 | $24,000 | $53,739 |
| Old Dominion University | $12,750 | $33,780 | $14,638 | $24,000 | $54,914 |
| George Mason University | $14,220 | $38,688 | $17,915 | $19,500 | $76,343 |
Virginia by City
Explore other Virginia related topics
Related Articles
NCLEX Pass Rates at Virginia Nursing Schools
Choosing a nursing program is a balancing act between admission requirements, location, and cost, but NCLEX first-time pass rates cut straight to whether a program prepares graduates to become licensed nurses on their first attempt. A strong pass rate signals that the curriculum aligns with the national licensing exam, while a weaker one can delay your entry into the workforce and add stress.
Virginia’s NCLEX Performance vs. National Averages
In 2024, Virginia BSN programs posted an aggregate first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate of 91.67% across 2,005 test takers. When all RN program types are combined (including associate degree and diploma programs), Virginia’s pass rate edged up to 92.32% from 4,907 test takers. For comparison, the national first-time pass rate for 2025 sat at 86.7%, meaning Virginia’s BSN graduates consistently outperform the national benchmark by roughly 5 percentage points. This gap reflects the strength of the state’s nursing education pipeline.
Top-Performing BSN Programs in Virginia
Several Virginia BSN programs have built reputations for exceptional first-time NCLEX success. While school-specific pass rates fluctuate year to year, publicly available data from the Virginia Board of Nursing regularly show a cluster of programs surpassing 95%. Institutions like the University of Virginia, James Madison University, and Virginia Commonwealth University are frequently recognized for preparing students who pass on the first attempt at rates well above state and national averages. Prospective students should verify the most recent school-level data directly through the Virginia Board of Nursing, as a program’s multi-year trend matters more than a single year’s snapshot.
Why NCLEX Pass Rates Should Influence Your Decision
- Licensure timeline: A program with a low pass rate increases the risk that you will need to retake the exam, adding months of delay and retake fees.
- Program quality indicator: Accreditation bodies like the CCNE and ACEN monitor pass rates as a key performance metric. A sustained dip can trigger program review.
- Employer perceptions: Some hospital systems and health networks ask about new grad NCLEX success during hiring, a strong pass rate from your school can work in your favor.
What a Lower Pass Rate Signals
Not every program can sustain a 95%+ pass rate. Southside College of Health Sciences, for example, reported a 2024 first-time pass rate of 90.48%, slightly below Virginia’s BSN average of 91.67%. While still above the national average of 86.7%, the gap suggests some students may need additional preparation resources. When evaluating a school, look beyond the headline number: investigate whether the program offers structured remediation, NCLEX review courses, or academic support for at-risk students. A lower rate alone is not a red flag if the school demonstrates a plan to close the gap.
Earnings & ROI After a Virginia BSN
Earnings after a nursing degree measure the median income of graduates, giving a practical picture of how quickly a program pays for itself. Return on investment (ROI) compares those earnings to total student debt; the higher the ratio, the better the value for students balancing cost and career goals.
What Virginia Nurses Earn Across the State
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that registered nurses in Virginia earn a median annual wage of $88,820, with the lowest 10 percent at $62,310 and the highest 10 percent at $139,770.1 Earnings peak in the Washington-Arlington-Alexandria metro area, where RNs bring home a median of $92,800 per year, or $44.61 per hour.2 These figures reflect working RNs specifically, capturing the salary landscape for those who remain in the profession.
Measuring Return on Investment with Program Data
Federal College Scorecard data tracks earnings for all graduates, not just those who stay in nursing, offering a different lens on value. Among Virginia nursing schools, the best debt-to-earnings ratios appear at programs that keep costs low while producing solid workforce results. The median graduate earnings (10 years after entry) and median debt tell a clear story.
- Paul D Camp Community College: Graduates show median earnings of $36,031 against a median debt of $6,880; debt consumes roughly 19% of one year’s earnings.
- Southside College of Health Sciences: With median earnings of $71,380 and debt of $13,758, the debt-to-earnings share is about 19%.
- University of Virginia: UVA graduates see median earnings of $86,863, while debt of $17,500 represents about 20% of annual earnings; a strong balance given the higher earnings.
- Germanna Community College: Earnings of $39,644 and debt of $8,400 produce a debt-to-earnings ratio near 21%.
These ratios show that even when earnings appear modest, the low debt burden at community college programs delivers excellent ROI. Remember, Scorecard earnings include graduates who left nursing, so actual RN-specific salaries may be higher. For a direct look at working nurse pay, the BLS statewide median of $88,820 remains the benchmark.1
Online vs. On-Campus Nursing Programs in Virginia
Virginia nursing schools offer online, campus-based, and hybrid formats. Online options appeal to working nurses and students in rural areas, while campus programs provide structured clinical training. Consider your schedule, learning style, and access to clinical sites when deciding.
Pros
- Online programs offer flexibility for working adults, allowing students to continue employment while completing coursework.
- Many online BSN options have lower total cost than campus programs because they eliminate commuting and relocation expenses.
- Fully online programs allow Virginia residents in rural areas to access top-ranked nursing schools without moving.
- Campus-based programs provide integrated clinical rotations and simulation labs, building hands-on skills under direct supervision.
- On-campus cohorts create networking opportunities with faculty and hospital partners that can lead to job offers.
Cons
- Online students must still arrange clinical placements locally, which can be challenging if local healthcare systems have limited preceptor availability.
- Online formats offer less face-to-face mentorship, requiring strong self-discipline and time management to stay on track.
- Campus programs have rigid scheduling, making it difficult for career changers or parents to attend classes during standard hours.
- On-campus attendance adds commute or relocation costs, which can offset savings from lower tuition at public institutions.
Accreditation Guide: CCNE & ACEN Programs in Virginia
Accreditation is a seal of quality that confirms a nursing program meets national standards for education and training. In Virginia, two agencies are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education to grant that seal: the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Both are reliable, but they serve slightly different slices of nursing education.
CCNE vs. ACEN: What’s the Difference?
CCNE focuses on baccalaureate, graduate, and residency programs, and it is the most common accreditor for four-year BSN programs at universities.1 ACEN accredits all levels, from practical nursing diplomas through clinical doctorates, and is often seen at community colleges and some RN-to-BSN completion tracks.2 Both are equally valid for licensure and employment, but program culture and transfer pathways can differ.
Accredited BSN Programs in Virginia
A current search of the CCNE directory shows that the majority of Virginia’s BSN programs hold CCNE accreditation, including offerings at large public universities like the University of Virginia and Virginia Tech, as well as private institutions such as Liberty University.1 Virginia State University’s online RN-to-BSN received CCNE accreditation effective October 2023 through 2028, a recent addition for working nurses.3 ACEN-accredited BSN programs are fewer but present, especially at colleges that also offer associate-degree nursing.2 Keep in mind that accreditation status can change. In 2026, CCNE withdrew accreditation from Averett University’s master’s and post-graduate APRN programs, a reminder to verify any school’s current standing before applying.4 The accompanying tuition table and NCLEX pass rate summaries on this page reflect only programs with active CCNE or ACEN approval.
Why Accreditation Matters for Your Career
Choosing an accredited program opens doors that a non-accredited program cannot:
- Federal financial aid: Only students at accredited schools can access federal loans and grants.
- Credit transfer: Most nursing schools accept transfer credits only from accredited programs, protecting your investment if you change schools.
- Employer recognition: Hospitals and health systems strongly prefer, and often require, a degree from a CCNE- or ACEN-accredited program.
- Graduate school eligibility: Master’s and doctoral nursing programs require a bachelor’s degree from an accredited program.
- Licensure eligibility: The Virginia Board of Nursing requires graduation from an approved nursing program, CCNE and ACEN accreditation satisfies that requirement.
Virginia’s Nurse Licensure Compact
Virginia is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows RNs to hold one multistate license and practice in any of the 40+ compact states, including telemedicine roles. This gives graduates of Virginia’s accredited BSN programs immediate flexibility to work across state lines without additional paperwork. While individual state requirements can still vary, the compact significantly eases career mobility for new nurses.
How to Choose the Right Nursing Program in Virginia
Choosing a nursing school in Virginia means balancing program quality with practical concerns like cost, location, and clinical access. The right fit depends on your career goals and personal circumstances. Use the following criteria to narrow your options.
Start with Cost and Financial Fit
Total program cost varies widely, but published net price figures are institutional averages, not personalized estimates. Request a net price calculator from each school to see projected out-of-pocket costs based on your financial situation. Also compare what’s included: some schools bundle exam fees, uniforms, and technology costs into tuition, while others charge separately.
Look at Clinical Access and Licensure Preparation
Strong clinical partnerships are essential. Ask which hospitals and healthcare systems the program uses for rotations, as these sites often lead to job offers. Online options can add flexibility but may limit hands-on practice, so verify how clinical hours are arranged. Check each school’s NCLEX pass rate over several years and confirm the program holds CCNE or ACEN accreditation. The Virginia Board of Nursing maintains an up-to-date list of approved prelicensure programs, which also outlines the licensure application process.
Prepare for Admission Prerequisites and Deadlines
Virginia BSN programs commonly require prerequisite courses in Anatomy & Physiology I/II, Microbiology, English Composition, Statistics, Psychology, and Nutrition. Minimum GPA thresholds range from 2.5 at less selective schools to 3.0 at more competitive programs like UVA, VCU, and George Mason. Many schools also require the HESI A2 exam with a minimum composite score of 75%, though UVA does not require an entrance exam. Application deadlines vary: UVA’s is November 1, while many other programs set a March 1 deadline for fall admission. Always confirm current requirements on the program’s website before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia Nursing Programs
Find quick answers to common questions about nursing education in Virginia. From choosing the best school to understanding costs and licensure, these FAQs cover essential points for aspiring nurses.
The top nursing schools in Virginia are ranked in this article based on factors like NCLEX pass rates, accreditation, and graduate outcomes. Leading institutions include the University of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, and George Mason University, all known for rigorous BSN programs. The full rankings list provides detailed profiles.
BSN tuition in Virginia varies by school and residency status. Public in-state programs often range from $10,000 to $25,000 per year, while private institutions may charge over $40,000. For a side-by-side cost comparison, check the tuition table earlier in this article. Financial aid and scholarships can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
Many nursing schools in Virginia hold CCNE accreditation, a mark of quality. The accreditation guide in this article lists programs at schools like the University of Virginia, James Madison University, and Virginia Commonwealth University, among others. Always verify current accreditation status directly with the school.
NCLEX pass rates for Virginia nursing schools are generally high, often exceeding the national average. Our NCLEX pass rates section provides school-by-school data. For example, top programs frequently report first-time pass rates above 90%. These rates indicate strong preparation for licensure.
Yes, several schools offer online BSN programs in Virginia, ideal for working professionals or those needing flexibility. The online vs. on-campus comparison section covers format differences. Options range from fully online RN-to-BSN programs to hybrid pre-licensure tracks. Check each program’s clinical requirements.
Admission requirements typically include prerequisite courses in anatomy, physiology, and microbiology, a minimum GPA (often 3.0 or higher), TEAS or HESI exam scores, and a criminal background check. Competitive programs may require healthcare experience or an interview. Details vary; review each school's criteria carefully.
Yes, Virginia is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing nurses with a multistate license to practice in other compact states without obtaining additional licenses. This is beneficial for nurses who live near state borders or travel for work. Check the Virginia Board of Nursing for current updates.
More Nursing Schools in Virginia to Consider
Programs beyond the top 10 appear here grouped by region, and they are not ranked against one another. Each entry shows the city, the format, and the reported average net price so you can weigh location and cost side by side. Use this directory to spot options outside the ranked list that still fit your goals.
Shenandoah Valley
Shenandoah University
Direct admission as a first-year student puts you in nursing courses from day one on this 121-credit Winchester campus track, with rolling admissions, simulation labs, and a final-semester NCLEX prep course. Reported average net price: $30,298.
Winchester, VA · On-Campus- Nursing (BSN) - Traditional Four-Year Track
Eastern Mennonite University
A four-year BSN with two entry points a year, more than 500 clinical hours, a cadaver lab for anatomy, and a curriculum built around EMU's Sacred Covenant of Nursing. Reported average net price: $24,588.
Harrisonburg, VA · On-Campus- Traditional Nursing Major
Laurel Ridge Community College
Nursing coursework for this ACEN-accredited associate degree runs at the Fauquier and Middletown campuses, while general education classes can be taken at any of the college's four locations. Reported average net price: $6,013.
Middletown, VA · On-Campus- Associate Degree Nursing Program
Central Virginia
Longwood University
A four-year BSN with direct admission for freshmen and a citizen leadership focus threaded through the curriculum, plus service-learning and patient advocacy experiences. Reported average net price: $19,066.
Farmville, VA · On-Campus- Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Liberty University
This 122-credit residential BSN concentrates nursing courses in the junior and senior years, logs 800 clinical hours, and offers a 14,000-square-foot simulation center. Admission is test optional. Reported average net price: $29,357.
Lynchburg, VA · On-Campus- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Piedmont Virginia Community College
A 67-credit associate degree with a capstone clinical and placements at facilities within 50 miles of campus. The G3 program covers tuition, fees, and books for eligible students. Reported average net price: $5,963.
Charlottesville, VA · On-Campus- Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing
Germanna Community College
Full-time students finish in four semesters, while a part-time hybrid option stretches to six with classes online or at the Locust Grove and Stafford sites. Reported average net price: $5,541.
Locust Grove, VA · Hybrid- Nursing
Richmond Metro
Galen Health Institutes-Richmond
A two-year associate degree with four start dates a year and a free application, taught on campus in Richmond. Graduates sit for the NCLEX-RN and can continue to a BSN later. Reported average net price: $23,843.
Richmond, VA · On-Campus- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
Brightpoint Community College
A two-year associate degree offered in hybrid or fully in-person formats, with transfer agreements that support a later BSN and G3 tuition assistance for eligible students. Reported average net price: $5,490.
Chester, VA · Hybrid- Nursing, AAS
Hampton Roads
Riverside College of Health Sciences
Traditional and accelerated tracks both finish in 3.5 years of daytime classes on the Newport News campus, and students rotate through Riverside Health facilities. Reported average net price: $20,744.
Newport News, VA · On-Campus- Professional Nursing - BSN
Old Dominion University
A five-semester pre-licensure BSN with a simulation center and telehealth center on campus, community health partnerships, study abroad options, and courses at $281 per credit. Reported average net price: $14,638.
Norfolk, VA · On-Campus- Nursing, Pre-licensure (B.S.N.)
Southwest Virginia
Wytheville Community College
A five-semester, 67-credit associate degree built on a concept-based curriculum. Admission is selective, with a 2.5 GPA minimum and a February 15 deadline. Reported average net price: $4,622.
Wytheville, VA · On-Campus- Associate Degree in Nursing
University of Virginia's College at Wise
A 120-credit BSN that blends liberal education with nursing science, plus a fully online RN-to-BSN track for working nurses. Average class size is around 17. Reported average net price: $9,210.
Wise, VA · On-Campus- Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Radford University
Clinical placements top 500 hours at Level 1 and Level 2 trauma centers, and students choose a traditional four-year track or a 16-month accelerated option. Reported average net price: $14,578.
Radford, VA · On-Campus- Bachelor of Science in Nursing
New River Community College
An associate of applied science that follows the VCCS common concept-based curriculum, combining simulation labs and clinical rotations with experienced faculty guidance. Reported average net price: $6,279.
Dublin, VA · On-Campus- Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
