Peter MokoenaNursing is the backbone of healthcare — and the schools that train nurses are shaping the future of patient care, leadership, and innovation. This is a showcase of the Nursing Schools in the U.S. that excel in clinical practice, advanced degrees, and research. Whether you’re pursuing a BSN, MSN, or DNP, these schools offer the strongest foundations for compassionate, evidence-based care and career advancement.
Top 50 Nursing Schools In The US
1: Emory University – Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing
Emory tops the list for its excellence in clinical training, research, and leadership development. Located in Atlanta, it offers top-ranked MSN and DNP programs with strong ties to Emory Healthcare and the CDC. Students benefit from interdisciplinary learning and global health opportunities. Emory’s commitment to equity and innovation makes it a national leader.
2: Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing
Johns Hopkins is globally recognized for its research, advanced practice programs, and public health integration. Located in Baltimore, it offers top-tier MSN, DNP, and PhD tracks. Students engage in cutting-edge research and train at Johns Hopkins Hospital. The school’s emphasis on leadership and global impact sets it apart.
3: Ohio State University College of Nursing
Ohio State offers a comprehensive nursing education with strengths in evidence-based practice, health innovation, and leadership. Located in Columbus, it provides access to a major academic medical center. The school’s DNP and BSN programs are nationally ranked, and its simulation labs and research centers foster clinical excellence.
4: Duke University School of Nursing
Duke delivers a rigorous nursing education with a strong focus on advanced practice and research. Located in Durham, North Carolina, it offers top-ranked MSN and DNP programs. Students benefit from clinical placements at Duke Health and global immersion experiences. Duke’s emphasis on innovation and leadership makes it a standout.
5: University of Washington School of Nursing
UW is a leader in community health, research, and advanced practice. Located in Seattle, it offers strong BSN, MSN, and DNP programs with a focus on health equity and interdisciplinary care. Students train in diverse clinical settings and engage in policy advocacy. UW’s commitment to public service and innovation is nationally recognized.
6: University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing
Penn Nursing blends Ivy League rigor with clinical excellence. Located in Philadelphia, it offers top-ranked BSN, MSN, and PhD programs. Students benefit from access to Penn Medicine and interdisciplinary research. The school emphasizes leadership, global health, and innovation in care delivery.
7: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Nursing
UNC Chapel Hill offers a well-rounded nursing education with strengths in rural health, research, and advanced practice. Its BSN and DNP programs are highly ranked, and students train in diverse clinical environments across North Carolina. The school fosters leadership, service, and evidence-based care.
8: University of Michigan School of Nursing
Michigan Nursing provides a robust curriculum with strong clinical partnerships and research opportunities. Located in Ann Arbor, it offers BSN, MSN, and DNP programs with a focus on innovation and health systems leadership. The school’s simulation labs and global health initiatives enhance student training.
9: Columbia University School of Nursing
Columbia offers a direct-entry DNP program and is known for its strengths in nurse anesthesia, midwifery, and informatics. Located in New York City, it provides access to top hospitals and interdisciplinary research. Columbia’s emphasis on advanced practice and health policy makes it a top-tier institution.
10: Vanderbilt University School of Nursing
Vanderbilt delivers a flexible and innovative nursing education with strong MSN and DNP programs. Located in Nashville, it emphasizes leadership, informatics, and advanced practice. Students benefit from clinical placements at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and a supportive learning environment.
11: University of California, San Francisco School of Nursing
UCSF is a West Coast leader in nursing education, research, and advanced practice. Located in San Francisco, it offers top-ranked MSN and DNP programs with a strong focus on health equity, geriatrics, and community care. Students benefit from clinical placements in UCSF Health and interdisciplinary collaboration. The school’s commitment to innovation and public service makes it a standout in academic nursing.
12: New York University Rory Meyers College of Nursing
NYU Meyers offers a globally focused nursing education with strengths in gerontology, informatics, and advanced practice. Located in Manhattan, it provides access to top hospitals and international health organizations. The school emphasizes leadership, research, and culturally competent care. NYU’s urban setting and global partnerships make it ideal for nurses seeking impact at scale.
13: University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing
Pitt Nursing is known for its rigorous academics, research excellence, and clinical partnerships. Located in Pittsburgh, it offers strong BSN, MSN, and DNP programs with a focus on acute care, anesthesia, and informatics. Students train at UPMC hospitals and engage in cutting-edge research. Pitt’s emphasis on innovation and patient-centered care makes it a top-tier institution.
14: University of Minnesota School of Nursing
UMN offers a comprehensive nursing education with strengths in rural health, public health, and advanced practice. Located in Minneapolis, it provides access to major medical centers and community clinics. The curriculum emphasizes leadership, evidence-based care, and health equity. UMN’s commitment to underserved populations and interdisciplinary learning makes it a regional powerhouse.
15: Rush University College of Nursing
Rush, located in Chicago, is a leader in advanced practice nursing and clinical excellence. It offers top-ranked DNP and MSN programs with a focus on adult-gerontology, psychiatric care, and leadership. Students train at Rush University Medical Center and benefit from simulation labs and research opportunities. Rush’s emphasis on patient outcomes and innovation sets it apart.
16: University of Illinois Chicago College of Nursing
UIC Nursing delivers a diverse and inclusive education with strengths in urban health, informatics, and advanced practice. Located in Chicago, it offers BSN, MSN, and DNP programs with strong clinical partnerships. The school emphasizes community engagement, research, and culturally responsive care. UIC’s urban setting and commitment to equity make it a top choice for mission-driven nurses.
17: University of Colorado College of Nursing
Located in Aurora, Colorado, this school offers strong programs in family practice, midwifery, and rural health. Students train at UCHealth and Children’s Hospital Colorado, gaining exposure to diverse populations. The curriculum emphasizes leadership, innovation, and interprofessional collaboration. Colorado’s focus on community-based care and health systems science makes it a rising star.
18: Boston College Connell School of Nursing
Boston College offers a values-based nursing education rooted in Jesuit tradition. Located in Chestnut Hill, it provides strong BSN, MSN, and DNP programs with a focus on ethics, leadership, and holistic care. Students benefit from clinical placements in Boston’s top hospitals and a supportive academic environment. Connell’s emphasis on compassion and excellence makes it a standout in New England.
19: University of Maryland School of Nursing
UMSON is a research-driven institution with strengths in trauma care, informatics, and advanced practice. Located in Baltimore, it offers BSN, MSN, and DNP programs with access to major medical centers. The school emphasizes innovation, policy advocacy, and community health. Maryland’s commitment to public service and interdisciplinary learning makes it a respected national leader.
20: Case Western Reserve University Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing
Case Western offers a pioneering nursing education with strengths in acute care, anesthesia, and leadership. Located in Cleveland, it provides early clinical immersion and strong research opportunities. The school’s BSN and DNP programs are nationally ranked, and students benefit from affiliations with Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals. Case Western’s emphasis on innovation and patient-centered care makes it a top-tier choice.
21: University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing
UT Austin offers a robust nursing education with strengths in community health, leadership, and advanced practice. Located in a thriving healthcare hub, it provides BSN, MSN, and DNP programs with access to top hospitals and research centers. The curriculum emphasizes innovation, equity, and interprofessional collaboration. UT’s commitment to public service and academic excellence makes it a standout in the Southwest.
22: Yale University School of Nursing
Yale Nursing blends Ivy League scholarship with a strong focus on clinical leadership and global health. Located in New Haven, it offers direct-entry MSN and DNP programs with specialties in midwifery, psychiatric care, and adult-gerontology. Students benefit from interdisciplinary learning and early clinical immersion. Yale’s emphasis on social justice and innovation makes it a top-tier institution.
23: University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Nursing
UAB Nursing is a research-intensive institution with strengths in informatics, chronic disease management, and rural health. Located in a major medical center, it offers BSN through DNP programs with strong clinical partnerships. The school emphasizes diversity, innovation, and community engagement. UAB’s leadership in nursing science and practice earns it national recognition.
24: University of Arizona College of Nursing
Arizona Nursing delivers a forward-thinking curriculum with strengths in integrative health, rural care, and advanced practice. Located in Tucson, it offers BSN, MSN, and DNP programs with access to diverse clinical settings. The school emphasizes cultural competence, innovation, and public health. Arizona’s commitment to underserved communities makes it a regional leader.
25: University of Iowa College of Nursing
Iowa Nursing offers a rigorous education with strengths in gerontology, health systems leadership, and research. Located in Iowa City, it provides BSN through DNP programs with strong clinical integration. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, ethics, and interdisciplinary learning. Iowa’s supportive environment and research excellence make it a top choice in the Midwest.
26: University of Kansas School of Nursing
KU Nursing provides a comprehensive education with strengths in rural health, informatics, and advanced practice. Located in Kansas City, it offers BSN, MSN, and DNP programs with strong clinical affiliations. The school emphasizes leadership, innovation, and community engagement. KU’s focus on health equity and patient-centered care makes it a respected regional institution.
27: University of Wisconsin–Madison School of Nursing
UW–Madison offers a research-driven nursing education with strengths in public health, aging, and advanced practice. Located in a vibrant academic community, it provides BSN through DNP programs with access to top hospitals and research centers. The curriculum emphasizes leadership, ethics, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Wisconsin’s commitment to service and innovation makes it a Midwest powerhouse.
28: University of Kentucky College of Nursing
UK Nursing delivers a well-rounded education with strengths in rural health, oncology, and leadership. Located in Lexington, it offers BSN, MSN, and DNP programs with strong clinical partnerships. The school emphasizes evidence-based care, community engagement, and innovation. Kentucky’s focus on underserved populations and academic excellence makes it a regional standout.
29: University of Massachusetts Amherst College of Nursing
UMass Amherst offers a progressive nursing education with strengths in public health, informatics, and advanced practice. Located in Western Massachusetts, it provides BSN through DNP programs with a focus on equity and innovation. The curriculum integrates simulation, research, and community-based care. UMass’s commitment to access and excellence makes it a respected institution in New England.
30: University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Nursing
UTHSC Nursing offers a practice-focused education with strengths in trauma care, leadership, and rural health. Located in Memphis, it provides BSN, MSN, and DNP programs with access to major medical centers. The curriculum emphasizes clinical excellence, interprofessional learning, and community service. Tennessee’s dedication to healthcare innovation and equity makes it a rising star.
31: University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center College of Nursing
OU Nursing offers a practice-focused education with strengths in rural health, leadership, and advanced practice. Located in Oklahoma City, it provides BSN through DNP programs with strong clinical affiliations. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based care, community engagement, and interprofessional collaboration. OU’s commitment to underserved populations and innovation makes it a respected regional leader.
32: University of South Florida College of Nursing
USF Nursing delivers a dynamic curriculum with strengths in simulation, informatics, and global health. Located in Tampa, it offers BSN, MSN, and DNP programs with access to major hospitals and research centers. The school emphasizes leadership, diversity, and technology-enhanced learning. USF’s forward-thinking approach and strong clinical outcomes make it a rising star in the Southeast.
33: University of Connecticut School of Nursing
UConn Nursing offers a comprehensive education with strengths in gerontology, public health, and advanced practice. Located in Storrs, it provides BSN through DNP programs with strong clinical partnerships. The curriculum emphasizes research, ethics, and culturally competent care. UConn’s commitment to academic excellence and community service makes it a respected institution in New England.
34: University of Missouri Sinclair School of Nursing
Sinclair offers a well-rounded nursing education with strengths in rural health, leadership, and research. Located in Columbia, Missouri, it provides BSN, MSN, and DNP programs with access to diverse clinical settings. The school emphasizes innovation, patient-centered care, and health equity. Sinclair’s strong faculty and regional influence make it a solid choice for aspiring nurse leaders.
35: University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Nursing
UNMC Nursing delivers a research-driven education with strengths in oncology, rural health, and advanced practice. Located in Omaha, it offers BSN through DNP programs with strong clinical integration. The curriculum emphasizes leadership, evidence-based care, and interprofessional learning. UNMC’s commitment to innovation and service makes it a top choice in the Midwest.
36: University of Mississippi Medical Center School of Nursing
UMMC Nursing provides a robust curriculum with strengths in trauma care, leadership, and community health. Located in Jackson, it offers BSN, MSN, and DNP programs with access to a major academic medical center. The school emphasizes clinical excellence, diversity, and public service. UMMC’s focus on underserved populations and health systems leadership makes it a regional standout.
37: University of Nevada, Las Vegas School of Nursing
UNLV Nursing offers a progressive education with strengths in simulation, informatics, and population health. Located in Las Vegas, it provides BSN through DNP programs with strong clinical partnerships. The curriculum emphasizes innovation, leadership, and culturally responsive care. UNLV’s commitment to access and excellence makes it a rising contender in the West.
38: University of New Mexico College of Nursing
UNM Nursing delivers a mission-driven education with strengths in Indigenous health, rural care, and advanced practice. Located in Albuquerque, it offers BSN, MSN, and DNP programs with a focus on health equity and community engagement. The school emphasizes culturally competent care and interdisciplinary learning. UNM’s dedication to underserved communities makes it a regional leader.
39: University of Central Florida College of Nursing
UCF Nursing offers a tech-forward curriculum with strengths in simulation, leadership, and informatics. Located in Orlando, it provides BSN through DNP programs with access to major healthcare systems. The school emphasizes innovation, diversity, and global health. UCF’s strong career outcomes and commitment to excellence make it a top choice in Florida.
40: University of Louisville School of Nursing
Louisville Nursing provides a well-rounded education with strengths in public health, leadership, and advanced practice. Located in Kentucky’s largest city, it offers BSN, MSN, and DNP programs with strong clinical affiliations. The curriculum emphasizes ethics, evidence-based care, and community service. Louisville’s focus on health equity and interdisciplinary learning makes it a respected regional institution.
41: University of Rhode Island College of Nursing
URI Nursing offers a student-centered education with strengths in gerontology, public health, and simulation-based learning. Located in Kingston, it provides BSN through DNP programs with access to top clinical sites across New England. The curriculum emphasizes leadership, evidence-based care, and community engagement. URI’s commitment to innovation and regional service makes it a respected choice for aspiring nurse leaders.
42: University of Arkansas Eleanor Mann School of Nursing
Eleanor Mann delivers a high-value nursing education with strengths in rural health, leadership, and advanced practice. Located in Fayetteville, it offers BSN, MSN, and DNP programs with strong clinical integration. The school emphasizes ethics, innovation, and culturally competent care. Arkansas’s affordability and regional influence make it a smart choice for career-focused nurses.
43: Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Nursing
TTUHSC Nursing provides a flexible and practice-focused curriculum with strengths in telehealth, rural care, and leadership. Located across multiple campuses in Texas, it offers BSN through DNP programs with strong clinical partnerships. The school emphasizes innovation, access, and community service. TTUHSC’s commitment to underserved populations makes it a standout in the Southwest.
44: University of North Dakota College of Nursing & Professional Disciplines
UND Nursing offers a mission-driven education with strengths in rural health, Indigenous care, and advanced practice. Located in Grand Forks, it provides BSN, MSN, and DNP programs with a focus on health equity and community engagement. The curriculum integrates simulation, leadership, and interdisciplinary learning. UND’s dedication to regional service and innovation makes it a respected institution.
45: University of Maine School of Nursing
UMaine Nursing delivers a personalized education with strengths in gerontology, public health, and leadership. Located in Orono, it offers BSN and graduate programs with strong clinical affiliations across Maine. The curriculum emphasizes ethics, evidence-based care, and community outreach. UMaine’s focus on rural populations and academic excellence makes it a solid choice in the Northeast.
46: East Carolina University College of Nursing
ECU Nursing offers a comprehensive curriculum with strengths in family practice, rural health, and simulation. Located in Greenville, North Carolina, it provides BSN through DNP programs with strong clinical integration. The school emphasizes leadership, innovation, and service to underserved communities. ECU’s affordability and commitment to health equity make it a regional leader.
47: University of South Carolina College of Nursing
USC Nursing delivers a well-rounded education with strengths in informatics, leadership, and advanced practice. Located in Columbia, it offers BSN, MSN, and DNP programs with access to major healthcare systems. The curriculum emphasizes innovation, ethics, and community engagement. USC’s strong career outcomes and regional influence make it a top choice in the Southeast.
48: University of Idaho School of Nursing
Idaho Nursing provides a values-driven education with strengths in rural health, leadership, and community care. Located in Moscow, it offers BSN and graduate programs with strong clinical partnerships. The curriculum emphasizes culturally competent care, ethics, and interdisciplinary learning. Idaho’s focus on underserved populations and public service makes it a respected regional institution.
49: University of Alaska Anchorage School of Nursing
UAA Nursing offers a unique education with strengths in remote care, Indigenous health, and advanced practice. Located in Anchorage, it provides BSN through DNP programs tailored to Alaska’s healthcare challenges. The curriculum emphasizes resilience, innovation, and community engagement. UAA’s mission-driven approach makes it a vital force in northern healthcare.
50: Montana State University College of Nursing
MSU Nursing delivers a practice-focused education with strengths in rural health, leadership, and simulation. Located in Bozeman, it offers BSN and graduate programs with clinical sites across Montana. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based care, ethics, and public health. MSU’s commitment to frontier medicine and academic excellence makes it a fitting close to this top 50 list.
Closing
These 50 nursing schools represent more than academic excellence — they embody the compassion, resilience, and innovation that define the nursing profession. From rural clinics to global health missions, from simulation labs to policy advocacy, these institutions are preparing nurses not just to treat illness, but to transform healthcare.
Whether you’re pursuing bedside care, advanced practice, or leadership in health systems, this list is your compass. The right nursing school doesn’t just shape your career — it shapes your capacity to heal, lead, and inspire.