Top Nursing Schools & BSN Programs in Norfolk, VA for 2026

Norfolk’s concentration of military hospitals, including Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and the Sentara Healthcare network create a high-volume clinical training environment for nursing students. The practical tension for aspiring nurses lies in balancing a program’s tuition and length against the depth of clinical placements it can deliver, particularly in acute and specialty care. Options span traditional four-year BSNs, accelerated tracks for career changers, and RN-to-BSN programs in Virginia for working nurses.

Within a 75-mile radius, ranked programs at public and private institutions present distinct cost, admission, and partnership profiles. Sentara and other regional employers routinely hire graduates from schools with strong rotation pipelines, making the school-hospital relationship a tangible factor in early-career placement.

Best Nursing Schools in Norfolk, VA, Ranked

These top-ranked BSN and pre-licensure nursing programs within a 75-mile radius of Norfolk offer a range of pathways, from online RN-to-BSN completions to traditional campus-based degrees and direct-entry master’s options. The following schools are ranked based on a combination of affordability, graduation rates, and career outcomes, with special attention to their relevance for Hampton Roads students.

Rank	School	Location	Net price	Best for
#1	Riverside College of Health Careers	Newport News, VA	$20,000 – $25,000/yr	Hampton Roads students wanting hospital immersion
Riverside College of Health Careers in Newport News is a private, health system-owned college that immerses BSN students in clinical experiences within the Riverside Health System, a major Hampton Roads employer. The 3.5-year program offers traditional and accelerated day tracks, preparing graduates for NCLEX-RN licensure with strong local hiring pipelines. Admission is competitive, but small cohorts ensure personalized attention and hands-on training. Professional Nursing – BSN — On-Campus Visit Website 3.5-year program with traditional and accelerated track options Day classes and extensive hands-on training in Riverside Health System facilities Eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam upon completion Tuition ranges $37,325–$50,825; financial aid counseling provided Meets Virginia licensure requirements; personalized faculty attention due to small cohorts Competitive starting salaries for graduates, many hired within the Riverside network Prerequisites required for admission; selective 12.9% admit rate
#2	Centra College	Lynchburg, VA	$13,000/yr	Working RNs needing online degree completion
Centra College’s fully online RN-BSN program is tailored for Virginia-licensed registered nurses seeking career advancement without leaving their current workplace. With full-time completion in 12 months and part-time in 2 years, the curriculum uses practice projects integrated into the student’s job, allowing Norfolk-area RNs to apply learning directly at local hospitals. Low tuition and a perfect 100% graduation rate make it a cost-effective, high-quality option for degree completion. RN-BSN Program — Online Visit Website 100% online with flexible pacing: finish in 12 months (full-time) or 2 years (part-time) Designed for currently licensed RNs in Virginia seeking career advancement Practice projects integrated into your current workplace for immediate application Curriculum tailored to enhance clinical reasoning and leadership skills Financial aid available to qualified students Strong career advancement outcomes with a 100% institutional graduation rate No campus visits required; distance learning platform supports working professionals
#3	University of Virginia	Charlottesville, VA	$22,000/yr (net price)	Ambitious students targeting top Virginia BSN
The University of Virginia’s highly ranked BSN and direct-entry MSN programs draw top students from across the state, including Norfolk, with a rigorous curriculum that combines intensive clinical rotations and a focus on rural and urban health disparities. Options include a traditional four-year BSN, a three-year transfer track, and a two-year accelerated program, along with a master’s-level clinical nurse leader pathway. Generous in-state financial aid and a strong pipeline into Hampton Roads employers like Sentara make it a compelling choice despite its Charlottesville location. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Programs — On-Campus Visit Website Choose from traditional 4-year, 3-year transfer, or 2-year accelerated tracks Intensive clinical rotations in five specialty areas plus a semester-long practicum Preparation for the NCLEX exam with strong first-time pass rates Competitive admission; early action and regular decision deadlines Study abroad and global opportunities enrich the nursing perspective Renowned faculty mentors and interprofessional education focus In-state tuition and need-based aid for Virginia residents Graduate outcomes: alumni highly recruited by top Virginia health systems Direct Entry MSN (Clinical Nurse Leader) — On-Campus Visit Website 24-month full-time program for students with a bachelor’s in another field Over 840 clinical hours across five specialty rotations Master’s-level preparation; eligible for NCLEX and CNL certification Scholarship opportunities for 90% of students Designed to produce nurse leaders; emphasis on quality improvement and evidence-based practice Guaranteed admission for qualified applicants
#4	James Madison University	Harrisonburg, VA	$23,000/yr
James Madison University’s CCNE-accredited BSN program emphasizes innovative instruction and a low student-to-faculty ratio, with strong NCLEX-RN outcomes. The curriculum incorporates population health and simulation scenarios relevant to Virginia’s diverse communities, and graduates frequently land positions across Virginia metro areas, including Norfolk and Hampton Roads. BSN Program — On-Campus Visit Website CCNE-accredited and Virginia Board-approved pre-licensure BSN Low faculty-to-student ratio for personalized mentorship Innovative simulation and telehealth scenarios mirroring real Virginia healthcare settings Curriculum emphasizes community health and population-focused care Strong NCLEX-RN pass rates with graduates advancing quickly in their careers Focus on personal and professional growth through real-life clinical applications
#5	George Mason University	Fairfax, VA	$15,000 – $20,000/yr
George Mason University in Fairfax offers both a four-year traditional BSN and a 12-month accelerated second-degree BSN for career changers. Clinical experiences take place in the National Capital area, but the school maintains a strong employment pipeline statewide, with many graduates accepting roles in Hampton Roads health systems. In-state tuition and available financial aid enhance affordability for Virginia residents. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Programs — On-Campus Visit Website Traditional 4-year track for first-time degree students; accelerated 12-month track for career changers Clinical experiences in diverse settings across the National Capitol region Annual fall admission; limited spaces with competitive admissions for accelerated track Additional nursing program fees; scholarships and financial aid available Prepares students for RN licensure with curriculum integrating Mason Core and nursing prerequisites Prior bachelor’s degree required for accelerated second-degree path Strong job placement in Virginia metro areas, including Hampton Roads
#6	University of Mary Washington	Fredericksburg, VA	$21,000/yr (net price)
The University of Mary Washington’s hybrid RN-BSN degree completion program is designed for licensed RNs with an associate degree or diploma, allowing them to finish in one year full-time while continuing to work. With a curriculum focused on leadership and preparation for graduate study, it articulates easily with Virginia Community College System credits, making it a convenient step for Norfolk-area ADN nurses aiming to advance. Nursing (BSN) Degree Completion Program — Hybrid Visit Website Hybrid online/campus format; complete in one year full-time or part-time pace Designed for RNs with an associate degree or hospital diploma 41 credits granted for prior RN licensure; 30 credits must be taken at UMW Focus on leadership, patient care enhancement, and preparation for graduate study 3.0 GPA and active Virginia RN license required for admission Strong articulation with Virginia Community College System ADN programs Liberal arts integrated curriculum with faculty mentorships
#7	Wytheville Community College	Wytheville, VA	$5,000 – $11,000/yr
Wytheville Community College’s Associate of Applied Science in Nursing provides a solid foundation for entry-level nursing, with a five-semester curriculum that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN. Although located in southwest Virginia, graduates benefit from statewide articulation agreements and routinely find employment in hospital systems across the state, including Hampton Roads. Associate of Applied Science in Nursing — On-Campus Visit Website Five-semester associate degree program preparing students for NCLEX-RN Accredited by ACEN and fully approved by Virginia Board of Nursing Curriculum includes anatomy, physiology, and nursing concepts with clinical practice High NCLEX pass rates and emphasis on patient-centered, ethical care Prerequisites and TEAS score required for admission Graduates eligible for RN licensure and seamless transfer to Virginia BSN programs Affordable in-state tuition and strong transfer pathways
#8	Virginia Commonwealth University	Richmond, VA	$23,000/yr
Virginia Commonwealth University’s traditional BSN is a three-year, full-time program on the MCV campus in Richmond, featuring hands-on training in a major academic medical center. Ranked among the top 6% of nursing programs nationally, it draws a large share of students from the Tidewater region and sees many graduates hired by Sentara and other Hampton Roads employers. Traditional B.S. in Nursing — On-Campus Visit Website Three-year, full-time, in-person program on Richmond’s MCV campus Ranked #39 by U.S. News; top 6% of undergraduate nursing programs Clinical experiences at VCU Health, a Magnet-status academic medical center Preparation for NCLEX-RN with a focus on clinical reasoning and technical skills Admission via NursingCAS; requires recommendations and personal statement Many students from Tidewater region; graduates frequently hired by Sentara and other Hampton Roads employers
#9	New River Community College	Dublin, VA	~$6,000/yr (est.)
New River Community College offers an AAS in nursing that covers essential clinical skills and prepares graduates for the RN licensure exam. As part of the Virginia Community College System, the program facilitates seamless transfer to BSN completion programs, and its affordable tuition attracts students from across the state, including those planning to work in Norfolk after graduation. Associate of Applied Science in Nursing — On-Campus Visit Website Campus-based associate degree approved by Virginia Board of Nursing Prepares students for NCLEX-RN and entry-level RN roles Hands-on learning in a rigorous curriculum covering nursing fundamentals Low in-state tuition; annual cost approximately $4,979 Part of VCCS with articulation agreements enabling smooth BSN transfer Graduates employed across Virginia, including urban hospital systems
#10	Germanna Community College	Locust Grove, VA	$5,000 – $12,000/yr
Germanna Community College’s nursing associate degree is a two-year pathway focusing on patient-centered care and clinical judgment, with an estimated total cost of $11,260. Graduates are eligible for RN licensure and can transfer credits to BSN programs through VCCS articulation agreements, opening doors to nursing roles throughout Virginia, including the Hampton Roads area. Nursing Associate Degree — On-Campus Visit Website Two-year program leading to RN licensure eligibility Estimated total cost of $11,260, making it one of the most affordable paths Emphasis on patient-centered care, nursing judgment, and legal aspects Hands-on college lab experiences combined with clinical rotations Seamless transfer options to BSN programs through VCCS agreements Graduates prepared for diverse healthcare settings across Virginia

Norfolk BSN Programs at a Glance: Side-By-Side Comparison

The table below provides a quick comparison of BSN programs in and around Norfolk. Tuition figures are the most recent available, and the net price reflects an institution-wide average, so your actual cost may vary depending on your financial aid package. NCLEX-RN pass rates were not reported for these programs at the time of data collection.

Which BSN Pathway Fits Your Goals?

Norfolk nursing students can choose from three distinct educational paths depending on their current education level and career timeline. Below is a side-by-side look at the traditional, accelerated, and RN-to-BSN options available in the area.

How to Get Into Nursing School in Norfolk, VA

Nursing school admission has grown more competitive in recent years, with programs expecting strong academic records and meaningful healthcare exposure. In Norfolk, both Old Dominion University (ODU) and Norfolk State University offer BSN pathways, but specific requirements differ.

Core Admission Requirements

• Minimum GPA: ODU requires a 3.0 overall GPA, though admitted students often present closer to a 3.6.¹
• Prerequisites: ODU mandates at least seven prerequisite courses (including anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and statistics) with a grade of C or higher. You must complete 30 credits before applying and 54 by the time you start the program.¹
• Entrance Exam: ODU requires the HESI A2 exam with a minimum score of 80. You can attempt it twice, but a 12-month wait is required between retakes.¹

Application Process and Tips

ODU’s nursing program uses a holistic review² and has a February 15 deadline³ (for fall 2026 start). A separate nursing application is required¹ after initial university admission, along with a background check.²

Practical ways to strengthen your application: - Apply early: many programs fill quickly or have limited seats. - Retake prerequisites if your grades are borderline; a stronger science foundation can compensate for a lower overall GPA. - Gain healthcare experience: Volunteering, CNA work, or shadowing demonstrates commitment and gives you a realistic view of the field.

Norfolk-area schools generally favor students who balance academics with real-world exposure, so plan ahead and stay organized.

Tuition, Financial Aid & ROI for Norfolk BSN Graduates

A BSN from a Norfolk-area program pays off quickly when you weigh local RN wages against net cost after financial aid.

What BSN Graduates Earn vs. What They Owe

Program-level earnings shortly after graduation are not yet published for these schools, but broader alumni earnings data paint a clear picture. At the University of Virginia, median graduate earnings reach $86,863, paired with median federal debt of just $17,500. The resulting ROI ratio, 4.96, means UVA nursing alumni earn nearly five times their debt load. George Mason graduates see median earnings of $76,343 against $19,500 in debt, an ROI of 3.92, while James Madison University delivers an ROI of 3.48. These figures show that public university BSN programs consistently produce strong financial returns, even at the higher end of the typical debt range.

Local RN Salary Benchmarks

Registered nurses in the Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News metropolitan area earn a median annual wage of $91,340, or $43.91 per hour, according to the most recent Bureau of Labor Statistics data.¹ For context, the national median for RNs is slightly higher at $93,600, per Nurse Wala's 2026 salary report.² This means a Norfolk BSN graduate can expect a starting salary well into the $60,000-$70,000 range in the region, with rapid growth toward the mid-career median. The local earnings floor is high enough that even a loan balance of $20,000-$25,000, typical for public university nursing graduates, can be managed comfortably on a nurse's early-career income.

Net Price: What You'll Actually Pay

Sticker tuition rarely tells the whole story. Net price after grant aid is the metric that matters. At George Mason, the average net price for in-state students is $17,915, far below the published tuition and fees of $14,220 (because net price factors in all cost of attendance minus aid). UVA's net price averages $21,565, and JMU's is $23,322. These figures make a BSN accessible to many families, especially when Pell Grant eligibility is widespread. Pell Grant shares among these schools range from 42% at UVA to 58% at George Mason, signaling that a large portion of the student body receives need-based federal aid.

Old Dominion University BSN Costs

While Old Dominion University's BSN tuition specifics are not directly represented in this dataset, in-state public university tuition in Virginia generally falls between $14,000 and $22,000 per year for bachelor's programs, with net prices often thousands lower after aid. Out-of-state rates are significantly higher, typically exceeding $38,000. Prospective students targeting the Old Dominion program should expect a cost structure similar to peers like George Mason or JMU, and should rely on the net price calculator offered by the institution to get an accurate estimate.

Clinical Sites & Hospital Partners in the Norfolk Area

BSN students at Old Dominion University complete rotations across five required areas: acute care, community health, pediatrics, mental health, and leadership.¹ This breadth means that clinical hours are distributed among multiple facilities, including major regional hospitals and specialty centers in Norfolk. To see which hospitals are currently partnered with a program, visit the School of Nursing website for ODU or the Department of Nursing at Norfolk State University. While neither school publishes a static list of affiliate hospitals, the sites often detail the types of clinical experiences available and may name key partners like Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and nearby VA medical centers.

Because partner rosters can change, direct contact with the clinical placement coordinator is the most reliable route. Both schools use a centralized placement model; students do not arrange their own rotations, so the coordinator can provide the most current information on rotation sites and schedules.² If you want broader context on nursing training opportunities, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) offers general employment outlook data but does not list clinical sites. For guidance on how to locate or evaluate clinical placement information, the Virginia Nurses Association or the American Association of Colleges of Nursing can point you toward best practices and resources.

Frequently Asked Questions About Norfolk Nursing Schools

Planning your nursing education in Norfolk? These answers address common questions about program options, cost, and admissions, drawing from the detailed comparisons and school profiles found throughout this article. Whether you're aiming for a traditional BSN or an accelerated path, the information below can help you get started.

What are the best nursing schools in Norfolk, VA?

Top programs include Norfolk State University and Old Dominion University, both offering BSN pathways with strong NCLEX pass rates and clinical partnerships across the Hampton Roads region. The full ranking with admission stats and program details is available in the best schools list on this page.

How much does a BSN program cost in Norfolk, Virginia?

BSN costs vary by institution and residency. In-state tuition at public schools like Old Dominion or Norfolk State falls in a moderate range for Virginia, while private colleges charge more. The article's tuition and financial aid section breaks down estimated expenses and return on investment.

What NCLEX pass rates do Norfolk nursing schools have?

Norfolk nursing schools consistently report solid NCLEX-RN pass rates. For example, Norfolk State's BSN program posted a first-time pass rate well above 90% in recent years, and Old Dominion's rate was similarly high. Individual school profiles on this page provide the most current data.

Does Old Dominion University have an accelerated BSN program?

Yes, Old Dominion offers an accelerated BSN for students who already hold a non-nursing bachelor's degree. The full-time, second-degree pathway typically takes 12 to 18 months and requires specific prerequisite coursework. Admission details are in the program listings.

Can I transfer from TCC to a BSN program in Norfolk?

Yes, many students start at Tidewater Community College to earn an ADN and then transfer. Both Norfolk State and Old Dominion have RN-to-BSN or articulation pathways designed for TCC graduates, often with streamlined credit transfer and flexible course formats.

Explore Additional Nursing Programs in Virginia

Looking beyond Norfolk and Virginia Beach? Virginia has many additional nursing programs across the state. Here are standout schools that didn't make our top-ranked list but offer solid BSN and associate degree options.

Hampton Roads

Richmond Area

Central Virginia

Shenandoah Valley

Southwest Virginia