Top Nursing Schools & BSN Programs Near Glen Allen, Virginia

Registered nurses in Virginia earn a statewide average of $88,820, and the Richmond metro, with major employers like VCU Health, Bon Secours, and HCA Virginia, concentrates hiring for new BSN graduates. Glen Allen sits at the northern edge of this network, giving students access to clinical rotations and jobs within a short commute.

BSN programs within driving distance range from traditional four-year on-campus degrees at public universities to accelerated and fully online RN-to-BSN programs. Costs, admission requirements, and NCLEX-RN pass rates vary sharply, so comparing a few key data points can shape where you apply.

The strongest nearby programs have adapted to workforce demand by adding hybrid schedules and part-time tracks, which means working nurses can upgrade to a BSN without leaving their current positions.

Best Nursing Schools Near Glen Allen, VA

Glen Allen residents have strong nursing program options ranging from a nationally ranked state university in their backyard to fully online RN-BSN completion programs. The following ranking evaluates schools within reasonable driving distance or online delivery, weighing factors like affordability, graduate outcomes, and clinical placement opportunities.

Rank	School	Location	Net price	Best for
#1	Virginia Commonwealth University	Richmond, VA	$23,000/yr	Central Virginia clinical immersion
Located in Richmond, VCU is the closest major public BSN program for Glen Allen students. Its traditional BSN is a three-year in-person program with extensive clinical placements across Greater Richmond hospitals, including VCU Health, providing immediate local networking and job opportunities. Traditional B.S. in Nursing — On-Campus Visit Website Three-year full-time program with a strong clinical focus Prepares graduates to take the NCLEX-RN licensure exam Hands-on experience in diverse healthcare settings Ranked #39 nationally by U.S. News and World Report Application through NursingCAS with transcripts, recommendations, and personal statement Part of a Magnet-designated academic medical center network Emphasizes clinical reasoning, physical assessment, and technical skills
#2	University of Virginia	Charlottesville, VA	$22,000/yr (net price)	Academically ambitious prelicensure students
About 70 miles west in Charlottesville, UVA offers multiple entry paths: a traditional four-year BSN, transfer, and accelerated BSN, plus a direct-entry MSN for career changers. UVA maintains strong clinical partnerships in Central Virginia, and its graduates see high starting salaries. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Traditional 4-Year) — On-Campus Visit Website Four-year, full-time program totaling 120 credits Prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam Clinical rotations in five specialty areas Includes a semester-long practicum Competitive admissions with Early Action and Regular Decision deadlines Financial aid and global study opportunities available Hands-on experience with diverse patient populations BSN Transfer Program (3-Year) — On-Campus Visit Website Three-year curriculum for transfer students 120-credit program with hands-on clinical experience Study abroad and interprofessional education options Prerequisite courses required before entry Tuition varies by Virginia residency Additional clinical services fee applies Expert faculty prepare students for the NCLEX-RN Accelerated BSN (2-Year) — On-Campus Visit Website Two-year intensive, full-time program starting in May Requires 52 general education credits before enrolling Includes two summer sessions for a faster timeline Application deadline October 1 for the following May Clinical experiences woven throughout the curriculum Focus on diverse patient care and interprofessional collaboration Close-knit cohort with world-class faculty mentors Clinical Nurse Leader (Direct Entry MSN) — On-Campus Visit Website 24-month full-time program for non-nurses with a bachelor's Over 840 clinical hours across five specialties NCLEX pass rates historically above 96% Ranked #1 among American CNL programs Graduates eligible for both NCLEX and CNL certification 90% of students receive scholarships Requirements: 3.0 GPA, prerequisite courses, healthcare experience suggested
#3	Centra College	Lynchburg, VA	$13,000/yr	Working RNs seeking online BSN
Centra College's fully online RN-BSN is designed for Virginia-licensed RNs anywhere in the state, allowing Glen Allen nurses to complete coursework while working locally. The program is affordable, fast (12 months full-time), and builds on existing nursing skills. RN-BSN Program — Online Visit Website 100% online learning with no campus visits Flexible full-time (12 months) or part-time (2 years) tracks Designed for currently licensed registered nurses in Virginia Curriculum tailored to advance your nursing practice Financial aid options available for qualifying students Clinical or project work can be completed at your current workplace Focuses on career advancement and leadership skills
#4	George Mason University	Fairfax, VA	$15,000 – $20,000/yr
Located in Fairfax, George Mason provides a traditional four-year BSN and an intensive 12-month accelerated second-degree BSN. While farther from Glen Allen, its in-state tuition and strong graduate earnings make it a competitive statewide option. Traditional BSN Program — On-Campus Visit Website Four-year, full-time prelicensure pathway Clinical rotations in diverse National Capitol area facilities Admission once per year in the fall; limited space Information sessions recommended for applicants Additional nursing program fees apply Scholarships and financial aid available through the university Accelerated Second Degree BSN Program — On-Campus Visit Website 12-month full-time program for those with a prior bachelor's Prelicensure track with competitive admission Fast-paced curriculum prepares for the NCLEX-RN Designed for career changers seeking nursing licensure quickly
#5	James Madison University	Harrisonburg, VA	$23,000/yr
JMU's BSN in Harrisonburg emphasizes low student-faculty ratios and hands-on clinical instruction. Virginia residents, including those from Glen Allen, enjoy in-state tuition and a well-regarded NCLEX preparation curriculum. BSN Program — On-Campus Visit Website Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) Approved by the Virginia Board of Nursing Low student-faculty ratio for personalized attention Innovative instruction blending classroom and real-world scenarios Prepares students thoroughly for the NCLEX-RN exam Strong focus on personal and professional growth Graduates advance quickly in nursing careers
#6	University of Mary Washington	Fredericksburg, VA	$21,000/yr (net price)
Just off I-95 in Fredericksburg, UMW's hybrid RN-BSN completion is tailored for working RNs, with mostly online coursework and occasional campus visits. It's a practical step for Glen Allen-area RNs to earn a bachelor's in one year. Nursing (BSN) Degree Completion Program — Hybrid Visit Website Hybrid format: primarily online with limited on-campus sessions Complete in one year full-time or part-time at your own pace Requires an associate's degree or diploma in nursing and an active RN license Minimum 3.0 GPA for admission 41 credits awarded for prior RN licensure Focus on leadership, patient care, and graduate school preparation Mentorship from faculty and healthcare leaders
#7	Riverside College of Health Careers	Newport News, VA	$20,000 – $25,000/yr
Riverside College of Health Careers in Newport News offers a 3.5-year BSN with a low student-faculty ratio and personalized attention. While far from Glen Allen, its small cohort model and high NCLEX pass rates appeal to students seeking a focused environment. Professional Nursing - BSN — On-Campus Visit Website 3.5-year program with traditional and accelerated tracks Day classes and hands-on training throughout Eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam upon completion Tuition ranges from roughly $37,325 to $50,825 total Low student-faculty ratio for individualized instruction Curriculum meets Virginia licensure requirements Prerequisites required for admission
#8	Wytheville Community College	Wytheville, VA	$5,000 – $11,000/yr
Wytheville Community College's five-semester ADN is a low-cost pathway to RN licensure, with an excellent NCLEX pass record. Graduates often transfer to BSN programs; the rural setting may suit students from all parts of Virginia. Associate of Applied Science in Nursing — On-Campus Visit Website Five-semester associate degree program Prepares students for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam Accredited by ACEN and approved by the Virginia Board of Nursing Strong NCLEX pass rate history Emphasizes patient-centered care and ethical standards Includes clinical practice and anatomy prerequisite courses Foundation for transferring to a BSN program
#9	New River Community College	Dublin, VA	~$6,000/yr (est.)
New River Community College in Dublin provides an affordable ADN approved by the Virginia Board of Nursing. Its strong NCLEX preparation and straightforward transfer pathways make it a sensible starting point for aspiring RNs. Associate of Applied Science in Nursing — On-Campus Visit Website Campus-based program approved by the Virginia Board of Nursing Focuses on preparing students for the NCLEX-RN Hands-on learning through clinical experiences Rigorous curriculum covering nursing fundamentals Contact Nursing Admissions Specialist for detailed guidance Low-cost pathway to enter the nursing profession
#10	Germanna Community College	Locust Grove, VA	$5,000 – $12,000/yr
Germanna Community College's two-year ADN is focused on patient-centered care and is noted for its affordability. Students can later transition to BSN programs through guaranteed admission agreements with Virginia universities. Nursing Associate Degree — On-Campus Visit Website Two-year program leading to an Associate Degree in Nursing Emphasizes patient-centered care and nursing judgment Estimated total cost around $11,260 for the program Graduates eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam Includes hands-on lab and clinical experiences Covers legal and ethical aspects of nursing Pathway to BSN transfer through guaranteed admission agreements

BSN Program Cost Comparison in the Glen Allen Area

The table below shows costs for nursing programs at community colleges near Glen Allen, Virginia. All programs listed offer associate degrees in nursing (ADN/ASN), which serve as a foundational step toward a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) through transfer or RN-to-BSN pathways. Tuition and net price figures are based on the most recent IPEDS and College Scorecard data.

NCLEX Pass Rates for Glen Allen-Area BSN Programs

NCLEX-RN pass rates serve as a transparent gauge of how well a nursing program prepares graduates for the licensing exam. Near Glen Allen, Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing stands out with a 96.80% first-time pass rate for its BSN graduates in 2024.¹ This places the program well above the Virginia state average of 92.32%² and significantly higher than the national average for BSN programs, which was 87.5% in 2025.³

Strong NCLEX outcomes are not just a badge of quality; they directly affect your career timeline. Graduates from high-performing programs typically sit for the exam with greater confidence, pass on the first attempt, and start working as registered nurses sooner. Conversely, a pattern of low pass rates can signal weaknesses in curriculum, clinical training, or student support.

When evaluating other BSN options in the Richmond metro area, check each school's NCLEX pass history through the Virginia Board of Nursing's annual reports. Consistent performance above the state benchmark indicates a program that keeps current with exam changes and invests in student success. Look for three-year trends rather than a single-year snapshot to get a reliable picture.

Admission Requirements & Format Options for BSN Programs Near Glen Allen

A 2.5 minimum cumulative GPA is the baseline admission benchmark for the traditional BSN at Virginia Commonwealth University, but requirements vary widely among nursing programs near Glen Allen.

GPA and Entrance Exam Expectations

At Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) in nearby Richmond, the traditional BSN program requires a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 for progression, with no standardized entrance exam such as the TEAS or HESI required. However, other nursing schools in the Glen Allen area may set higher GPA thresholds and often require competitive TEAS or HESI scores. For example, some private and accelerated programs demand a 3.0 or above. Prospective students should verify specific exam requirements directly with each program, as they can change annually.

Common Prerequisite Coursework

Most BSN programs near Glen Allen share a common set of prerequisite courses designed to build foundational health science knowledge. You can expect to complete: - Anatomy and Physiology I and II: usually with labs. - Microbiology: with a lab component. - Statistics: a standard introduction to statistical reasoning. - Developmental Psychology: often listed as lifespan growth and development. At VCU, 26–27 credits of general education and science prerequisites are required before beginning the nursing major. These often include chemistry, English composition, and sociology as well. Check individual program bulletins, as prerequisites may differ slightly, especially for accelerated tracks.

Online, Hybrid, and Accelerated Pathways

VCU offers a fully online RN‑to‑BS pathway for registered nurses holding an associate degree, which can be completed in as few as 12–24 months. This program is ideal for working nurses near Glen Allen seeking a bachelor's degree without relocating. For those seeking a pre‑licensure BSN, VCU's traditional program is in‑person only. Other area providers, such as ECPI University and South University‑Richmond, may offer hybrid or part‑time options as well as accelerated second‑degree BSN tracks for career changers. Since format availability changes, contacting admissions offices is the best way to confirm current delivery modes.

Transfer and Articulation Agreements

Many BSN programs near Glen Allen, including VCU, participate in articulation agreements with the Virginia Community College System. These agreements streamline the transition for ADN‑prepared nurses entering RN‑to‑BSN programs. VCU's RN‑to‑BS specifically requires an associate degree in nursing and an active RN license, making it a natural next step for community college graduates. Additionally, some four‑year schools may accept transfer credits for completed prerequisites from regionally accredited institutions, though nursing courses often have strict transfer policies. If you're coming from a Virginia community college, ask about guaranteed admission or block‑credit transfer arrangements.

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Graduate Outcomes: What Glen Allen-Area BSN Graduates Earn

Long-term earnings for BSN graduates from schools near Glen Allen vary significantly. The chart below compares median income 10 years after entering college alongside typical student debt, set against the statewide average for registered nurses in Virginia ($88,820 per year as of 2024).

How to Choose the Right BSN Program in Glen Allen

Choosing the right BSN program in Glen Allen means weighing factors like cost, NCLEX performance, and scheduling flexibility. Below are answers to common questions to help you decide.

What are the best nursing schools near Glen Allen, VA?

The best schools are those that balance accreditation, NCLEX pass rates, and student support. Our ranking above highlights top BSN programs within a 75-mile radius, considering factors like graduation rates and clinical placement opportunities. Refer to the list for details on each program's strengths.

How much does a BSN program cost in Glen Allen, Virginia?

Tuition varies by institution and residency status. The cost comparison table earlier shows per-credit and total program estimates for area schools. Public universities often offer lower in-state rates, while private colleges may have higher tuition but provide more scholarship options. Check each school for exact figures.

What NCLEX pass rates do Glen Allen-area nursing schools have?

NCLEX pass rates for BSN graduates in the Glen Allen area generally exceed the national average, with many programs reporting rates above 85%. We break down recent first-time pass rates in the earlier NCLEX section. Strong pass rates indicate effective preparation for licensure and are a key quality indicator.

Are there online BSN programs available near Glen Allen, VA?

Yes, several schools in the area offer online or hybrid BSN options. These programs typically combine virtual coursework with in-person clinical rotations at local healthcare facilities. The admission requirements section highlights which programs provide flexible formats for working students or those needing distance learning.

How long does it take to complete a BSN program in Glen Allen?

Traditional BSN programs take about four years of full-time study. Accelerated tracks for students with prior credits or a bachelor's degree can be completed in 12 to 18 months. RN-to-BSN programs often take 1 to 2 years. Part-time study extends the timeline based on individual pace.

More Nursing Schools & BSN Programs Near Glen Allen, Virginia

Beyond the top-ranked programs, Glen Allen-area students can explore these additional nursing schools and BSN programs across Virginia. Each listing includes location, format, and estimated net price. For a full statewide directory, check the Virginia nursing schools page on topnursing.org.

Greater Richmond

Hampton Roads

Central Virginia

Shenandoah Valley

Southwest Virginia