Choosing a nursing school is a critical step for aspiring nurses. With numerous institutions offering various programs, the task can seem overwhelming. To aid in this significant decision, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 nursing schools in the U.S., each celebrated for its outstanding education and contribution to healthcare.
1. Emory University
- Location: Atlanta, Georgia
- Undergrad Enrollment: 7,118
- Acceptance Rate: 19%
- Middle 50% SAT/ACT: SAT: 1350-1520, ACT: 31-34
Emory’s nursing program is synonymous with excellence. It boasts cutting-edge simulation labs and a curriculum designed to meet contemporary healthcare challenges. Notable among their offerings is the Family Nurse Practitioner program, preparing graduates for a diverse range of clinical settings. The school’s Lillian Carter Center stands out, underscoring Emory’s commitment to serving vulnerable populations. Admission into Emory’s nursing program is competitive, requiring a strong academic record and a comprehensive application that includes a statement of purpose and references.
2. Duke University
- Location: Durham, North Carolina
- Undergrad Enrollment: 6,649
- Acceptance Rate: 7.7%
- Middle 50% SAT/ACT: SAT: 1480-1570, ACT: 33-35
Duke University’s School of Nursing is a beacon of innovation, with a focus on interprofessional education and leadership training. The school’s renowned research programs, particularly in geriatrics, place it at the forefront of nursing education. A highlight is the Center for Nursing Discovery, which provides one of the most advanced nursing simulation facilities in the country. Prospective students must present a robust academic profile and are encouraged to demonstrate commitment to healthcare through their experiences and personal statement.
3. University of Pennsylvania | UPenn
- Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Undergrad Enrollment: 10,183
- Acceptance Rate: 7.7%
- Middle 50% SAT/ACT: SAT: 1460-1570, ACT: 33-35
UPenn’s nursing school is renowned for its comprehensive curriculum and extensive clinical practices. It stands out for its emphasis on global health, offering programs that allow students to engage in healthcare practices worldwide. The school is also home to the Barbara Bates Center for the Study of the History of Nursing, enriching the academic environment with historical perspectives. Admission requirements include a strong academic record, extracurricular involvement, and a clear demonstration of passion for the nursing profession.
4. University of Michigan
- Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Undergrad Enrollment: 30,318
- Acceptance Rate: 23%
- Middle 50% SAT/ACT: SAT: 1340-1530, ACT: 31-34
Michigan’s School of Nursing prides itself on a curriculum that combines rigorous academics with immersive clinical experiences. The Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Program is particularly distinguished, preparing nurses for critical care environments. The Clinical Learning Center offers exceptional simulation experiences, complete with high-fidelity mannequins and virtual reality. Candidates must showcase a combination of academic prowess and a well-rounded application, including essays and recommendations that reflect a strong commitment to nursing.
5. University of Washington
- Location: Seattle, Washington
- Undergrad Enrollment: 32,099
- Acceptance Rate: 52%
- Middle 50% SAT/ACT: SAT: 1220-1460, ACT: 27-32
The University of Washington’s School of Nursing is a leader in nursing research and education, known for its commitment to public health. Its Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program is exemplary, reflecting the school’s dedication to mental health care. The school features the Simulation Center, fostering clinical skills in a controlled, realistic environment. Admission is holistic, considering academic excellence, personal experiences, and a demonstrated understanding of the nursing field’s demands and rewards.
6. Case Western Reserve University
- Location: Cleveland, Ohio
- Undergrad Enrollment: 5,383
- Acceptance Rate: 27%
- Middle 50% SAT/ACT: SAT: 1340-1510, ACT: 30-34
Case Western’s Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing is celebrated for its direct entry nursing program, allowing students to begin clinical training early. The school shines with its Flight Nursing program, unique in its focus on care in aerospace settings. The Health Education Campus, in collaboration with the Cleveland Clinic, provides students with unparalleled clinical and research opportunities. Prospective students need to illustrate both academic capability and a compelling portfolio that includes healthcare exposure and a personal narrative aligning with the nursing ethos.
7. University of Illinois at Chicago | UIC
- Location: Chicago, Illinois
- Undergrad Enrollment: 21,641
- Acceptance Rate: 73%
- Middle 50% SAT/ACT: SAT: 1020-1290, ACT: 20-26
UIC’s College of Nursing stands out for its extensive network of clinical sites across Illinois, offering diverse hands-on experiences. The Midwifery and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner programs are particularly noteworthy for their quality and comprehensiveness. The school’s simulation labs are state-of-the-art, facilitating advanced learning and interdisciplinary education. Applicants should demonstrate a solid academic foundation and a balanced application that reflects relevant experiences and personal insight into the nursing profession.
8. Boston College | BC
- Location: Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts
- Undergrad Enrollment: 9,370
- Acceptance Rate: 26%
- Middle 50% SAT/ACT: SAT: 1320-1490, ACT: 31-34
BC’s Connell School of Nursing is recognized for its holistic approach, integrating liberal arts with professional nursing education. The Palliative Care program exemplifies the school’s commitment to compassionate care. The school’s simulation labs and the Keys to Inclusive Leadership in Nursing program showcase its innovative and inclusive educational approach. Admission criteria include academic achievements, leadership qualities, and a well-articulated desire to contribute meaningfully to the nursing field.
9. New York University | NYU
- Location: New York, New York
- Undergrad Enrollment: 26,981
- Acceptance Rate: 16%
- Middle 50% SAT/ACT: SAT: 1350-1530, ACT: 30-34
NYU’s Rory Meyers College of Nursing is a powerhouse of urban health education, emphasizing evidence-based practice and research. Its programs in holistic nursing and global public health nursing are top-rated. The college’s urban location provides a dynamic learning environment, with access to diverse patient populations. Candidates are expected to have a strong academic record and must submit an essay that conveys a clear vision for their future in nursing.
10. Georgetown University
- Location: Washington, D.C.
- Undergrad Enrollment: 7,513
- Acceptance Rate: 15%
- Middle 50% SAT/ACT: SAT: 1370-1530, ACT: 31-34
Georgetown’s School of Nursing & Health Studies is historic, offering a robust Jesuit education with a focus on serving the underserved. Its Nurse Anesthesia program is especially prestigious, drawing on Georgetown’s rich history of nursing education. The O’Neill Family Foundation Clinical Simulation Center provides interactive, realistic patient care scenarios. Prospective students must submit a comprehensive application, highlighting academic excellence, a service-oriented mindset, and a nuanced understanding of health care’s moral and ethical dimensions.
Conclusion
Selecting the right nursing school is paramount, as it lays the foundation for a fulfilling career in healthcare. Each of these institutions offers unique strengths, from pioneering research to exceptional clinical experiences. Aspiring nurses are encouraged to consider their own goals and values carefully when choosing the school that will best prepare them for the challenges and opportunities of this critical field.