The Top Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program in Every State

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree is one of the smartest investments you can make to advance your nursing career. Not only do BSN-trained registered nurses (RNs) make more money on average, but employers also favor them when hiring. However, finding the best BSN programs near you can be challenging. 

That's why we curated this list of the best BSN programs in every state. Read on to find a BSN program close to home, work, or one in your dream city.

The Top BSN Program in Each State

There are approximately 1,000 accredited BSN programs in the United States, with high-quality programs available in every state. The program that’s best for an individual applicant will be determined by highly personal elements, but in assembling this list of the best programs in every state, our panel of experienced nurses gave consideration to variables including:

• Tuition
• Faculty-to-student ratio
• Nursing program curriculum
• Quality clinical experiences
• Graduation rates
• NCLEX-RN pass rates
• Number of employed graduates

Alabama  

Auburn University

• Semesterly Tuition: Resident - $5,352 | Nonresident - $16,056
• Program Length: Four years
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Auburn University boasts a suburban campus in a town that has been ranked one of the best places to live. BSN candidates generally declare pre-nursing as their major in their freshman year, then apply for admission to the BSN program in the fall of their sophomore year. Students who do not declare their major are still eligible for the program if they meet the admission requirements.
 
>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Alabama

Alaska  

University of Alaska – Anchorage

• Annual Tuition: Resident - $5,616 | Nonresident - $19,200
• Program Length: Four years
• Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

The University of Alaska–Anchorage is a public university based in the university medical district in downtown Anchorage. Though based in Anchorage, this university offers nursing education in more than 15 locations across the state. Ranked the 206th best BSN program in the country by U.S. News & World Report, it is the only traditional BSN program offered in Alaska.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Alaska  

Arizona

University of Arizona, Tucson

• Tuition: Resident - $33,4321 | Nonresident - $82,4761
• Program Length: Two years
• Accreditation: CCNE 

In 2022, U.S. News & World Report ranked the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Tucson-based University of Arizona 23rd in the nation. Offered in person on two different campuses as either a conventional BSN or an integrative health BSN, the program encompasses 124 credit hours and 1,000+ clinical and simulation hours. It has a 93% first-time NCLEX pass rate and offers several scholarship opportunities to nursing students.
 
>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Arizona

Arkansas

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock

• Tuition Per Credit: Resident - $324 | Nonresident - $645
• Program Length: Two years
• Accreditation: CCNE

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences is a public institution and the state’s only academic health center. The BSN program that the school offers was ranked 67th best in the entire country by U.S. News & World Report. Admission requires 58 credit hours of general education courses, which students may complete at any accredited college or university. The program offers its students a full-time academic coach to assist wherever needed.
 
>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Arkansas 
 

California

University of California – Los Angeles

• Annual Tuition: Resident - $12,522 | Nonresident - $45,096
• Program Length: Four years
• Accreditation: CCNE

Ranked the 15th best nursing program nationwide by U.S. News & World Report, UCLA’s BSN program is a traditional, four-year program that prepares its graduates to take the NCLEX-RN. Graduates from this program also fulfill all requirements to move on to graduate-level nursing programs.

During their final year, each student plans and implements a capstone project designed to improve the system of care provided to patients and their families. The campus’ location provides access to some of the country’s best medical facilities for students’ clinical rotations.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in California

Colorado

University of Colorado – Denver

• Tuition Per Credit: Resident - $588 | Nonresident - $1,019 
• Program Length: 24 months
• Accreditation: CCNE

U.S. News & World Report ranked the BSN program at the University of Colorado-Denver 29th in the nation. Based in the Anschutz Medical Campus, UCD offers four types of BSN programs, including a traditional, accelerated, and online BSN program for current RNs or AAS students. The school also collaborates with local community colleges to host an integrated nursing track.

UCD's traditional BSN is a full-time, 24-month option that includes classroom, clinical simulation, and clinical practice.  It encompasses over 40 didactic credits and 750 clinical hours. 
 
>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Colorado

Connecticut

University of Connecticut, Storrs

• Annual Tuition: Resident - $19,434 | Nonresident - $42,102
• Program Length: Four years
• Accreditation: CCNE

Ranked 39th best nursing program in the country by U.S. News & World Report, the BSN at UCONN combines a liberal arts education with professional nursing preparation. Although the majority of the first four semesters encompass general education courses, students do get to take nursing classes as soon as their first year. However, they'll complete most of the nursing core classes during the second half of the program.

Students learn and practice physical assessment skills at the school’s Clinical Simulation Learning Center. Then, they move on to several of the 70 healthcare agencies within a 60-mile radius of the campus.
 
>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Connecticut

Delaware

University of Delaware, Newark

• Tuition: Resident - $15,410 | Nonresident - $37,930
• Program Length: Four years
• Accreditation: CCNE

The nursing program at the University of Delaware is the 93rd best in the nation, per U.S. News & World Report. Despite Delaware’s small size, the school has a big reputation for excellence, and the nursing program offers several well-respected options for BSN degrees. University of Delaware students can select from a traditional undergraduate path, a 17-month accelerated BSN program (for those with baccalaureate degrees in other fields), and an online RN-to-BSN program.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Delaware

Florida

University of Florida, Gainsville

• Tuition Per Credit: Resident - $212 | Nonresident -  $955
• Program Length: Two years
• Accreditation: CCNE

Ranked as the 22nd best nursing program in the country by U.S. News & World Report, the University of Florida offers three separate BSN degree tracks. Not only is it home to one of the best ABSN programs in Florida, but you can also attend a traditional BSN or RN-BSN bridge at the University of Florida.

UF also provides nursing students with advanced education technology using its newly renovated simulation lab for clinical skill practice. More than 80% of UF nurses go on to pursue graduate study within three years. 
 
>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Florida

Georgia

Emory University, Atlanta

• Semesterly Tuition: $29,960
• Program Length: Four years
• Accreditation: CCNE 

Emory University may be one of the most costly programs on this list. However, the school also makes $16.9 million available in financial aid and scholarships, and its tuition is a reflection of the program’s quality. 

Ranked as the 2nd best nursing program in the country by U.S. News & World Report, the Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing at Emory offers multiple BSN programs. These paths include a four-year undergraduate experience, transfer opportunities, and an online, 12-month accelerated BSN for students with a previous bachelor's degree. Nationally, 99% of the school’s pre-licensure graduates had job offers within three months of graduation.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Georgia

Hawaii

University of Hawaii at Manoa

• Tuition Per Credit: $471
• Program Length: Four years
• Accreditation: CCNE

This public university located on the island of Oahu was ranked the 93rd best in the country by U.S. News & World Report. In addition to its remarkable location near downtown Honolulu, it offers a direct four-year BSN program, a traditional BSN program for pre-nursing, transfer, and veterans, and an online RN-to-BSN option. Throughout the program, UH Manoa nursing students take classes ranging from introductory Anatomy and Physiology to Complex Nursing and Leadership and Advanced Pathophysiology.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Hawaii

Idaho

Boise State University

• Annual Tuition: Resident - $8,782 | Nonresident - $26,976
• Program Length: Five semesters
• Accreditation: CCNE

Located in Western Idaho, Boise State University’s BSN program has garnered national renown. Ranked 112th in the nation, Boise State expanded its nursing program in response to Idaho’s shortage of professional nurses. The university also boasts an 8:1 faculty/student ratio in its clinical courses and has awarded over $1.5 million in scholarships over the last three years. 

In addition, BSU nursing graduates consistently achieve higher pass rates for the NCLEX-RN than the national average. The program itself is five semesters long and accepts students who completed their nursing school prerequisites at Boise State or other accredited schools.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Idaho 

Illinois

University of Illinois at Chicago

• Semesterly Tuition: Resident - $5,589 | Nonresident - $13,100
• Program Length: Two years
• Accreditation: CCNE

This large, public research institution has earned a rating of the 9th best BSN nursing program in the entire country. UIC nursing school candidates can select from two BSN pathways. The first is a traditional two-year program that requires students to complete 57 credit hours of prerequisites. The second option is a 100% online RN to BSN path that allows registered nurses to earn a BSN in as little as one year.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Illinois

Indiana

Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis 

• Annual Tuition: Resident - $11,790 | Nonresident - $40,480
• Program Length: Four years 
• Accreditation: CCNE

Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis is a collaboration between Indiana University and Purdue University. Its Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is the 22nd best in the country, according to U.S. News & World Report.

The university offers three BSN pathways, including a traditional BSN, a 12-month online RN-to-BSN program,  and a second-degree accelerated BSN. It also offers a nursing honors program specifically qualifying students who are contemplating going directly to graduate school.

>> Explore Purdue's Online RN-BSN Program*

Iowa

University of Iowa, Iowa City

• Semesterly Tuition: Resident - $6,215 | Nonresident - $17,271
• Program Length: Four years
• Accreditation: CCNE

The University of Iowa’s College of Nursing has a national reputation for excellence as the 9th-best BSN program in the nation. The school offers multiple options for students seeking BSN credentials, including a pre-licensure and RN to BSN pathway. The direct admit BSN program is a standard 4-year bachelor's. Students attending the University of Iowa BSN program via standard admission have 5 semesters to complete the pre-nursing program and should anticipate 4.5 total years of study.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Iowa

Kansas

Baker University, Baldwin City & Topeka

• Annual Tuition: $21,318
• Program Length: Four years
• Accreditation: CCNE

Baker University is Kansas' original university and home to the best nursing program in the state. The first two years of BSN study at Baker take place on its Baldwin City campus, where students complete nursing prerequisites in a traditional undergraduate environment. Then, students relocate to Topeka, where they complete a two-year professional program at Stormont Vail Health. 

Baker BSN grads have an outstanding 90% first-time NCLEX pass rate and a 95% employment rate within the first three months of graduation.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Kansas  

Kentucky

University of Kentucky, Lexington

• Annual Tuition: Resident - $13,212 | Nonresident - $33,406
• Program Length: Four years
• Accreditation: CCNE

The University of Kentucky’s BSN program is not only the largest in the state, graduating close to 200 BSNs each year, but it is also one of the top programs in the country. The UK College of Nursing offers the 15th-best BSN program in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report.

UK offers multiple routes to a BSN, including a traditional four-year BSN program with an 8:1 faculty-to-student ratio and an NCLEX pass rate above 97%. Second-degree BSN candidates, LPNs, or US military medics may also attend an accelerated 16-month BSN program at the University of Kentucky. Finally, the school offers a fully online RN-to-BSN program that students may attend on a part or full-time schedule.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Kentucky

Louisiana

Louisiana State University in Health Sciences, New Orleans

• Annual Tuition: $7,020
• Program Length: Three years
• Accreditation: CCNE

Louisiana State University Health Sciences is a New Orleans-based public institution. U.S. News & World Reports ranks its BSN program #51 in the nation, making it a highly sought-after university for aspiring nurses.  

LSU Health has three BSN pathways -a traditional, second-degree, and 1-year RN to BSN program. Students who complete the required prerequisites can finish the LSU Health traditional BSN program in as little as three years. They may attend any accredited university to fulfill the nursing prerequisite requirements.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Louisiana

Maine

University of Maine, Orono 

• Semesterly Tuition: Resident & Canadian - $9,240 | Nonresident - $30,030
• Program Length: Four years
• Accreditation: CCNE

The University of Maine is the top public research university in the state. It also boasts the 93rd-best BSN nursing program in the country. The school was home to Maine’s very first nursing program in 1939 and continues to prepare nurses through liberal arts courses, physical and social science studies, and nursing courses and clinical experiences. In May of 2020, the school’s first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate was 97%.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Maine 

Maryland

University of Maryland, Baltimore

• Semesterly Tuition: Resident - $4,914 | Nonresident - $20,195
• Program Length: Two years (61 credits)
• Accreditation: CCNE

The University of Maryland offers two BSN pathways to prospective students. The first is an entry-into-nursing program for students without a nursing degree. However, ADN-trained nurses may attend the shorter, online RN-to-BSN bridge option. University of Maryland's curriculum is of such high quality that U.S. News & World Report ranked it the 9th best BSN program nationwide.

The pre-licensure program requires 59 prerequisite credits equal to two years of undergraduate education at an accredited college or university. RN-to-BSN bridge prerequisites include holding an active and unencumbered RN license and either an ADN or diploma in nursing.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Maryland 
 

Massachusetts

Boston College

• Semesterly Tuition: $33,205
• Program Length: Four year
• Accreditation: CCNE

Boston College’s Connell School of Nursing earned the distinction of being the 22nd-best nursing program in the country by U.S. News & World Report. The program offers study-abroad opportunities along with classroom learning and clinical experiences.  BSN students at Boston College may also take graduate-level electives during their junior and senior years.

Boston College offers a traditional 4-year BSN in which students attend a science-centric pre-nursing curriculum throughout their freshman year. Their sophomore and junior year introduces them to nursing basics and provides a study abroad opportunity that 32% of nursing students take advantage of. The full nursing curriculum and clinical rotations at 85+ sites throughout the Boston area take them from junior year to graduation.

>> See the Top Nursing Schools in Massachusetts

Michigan

University of Michigan at Ann Arbor

• Semesterly Tuition: Resident - $8,448 | Nonresident - $28,870
• Program Length: Four years
• Accreditation: CCNE

The University of Michigan School of Nursing is over 130 years old. Since its founding, the BSN program has earned international respect, landing it the title of 3rd best BSN program in the nation, per U.S. News.

The school offers unique mentorship and networking opportunities through its 13,000 alumni and remarkable clinical education through more than 1,000 hours of hands-on clinical experiences. Students pursue a robust, well-balanced curriculum that includes the humanities, social and biological sciences studies, and opportunities to explore global health through studies and fieldwork abroad.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Michigan

Minnesota

University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Minneapolis

• Semesterly Tuition: Resident - $7,248 | Nonresident - $17,205
• Program Length: Four years
• Accreditation: CCNE

The University of Minnesota’s nursing program offers a small college feel within a Big 10 university. The school has earned recognition from U.S. News as the 15th-best BSN program in the country and boasts an 85.3% first-time NCLEX pass rate. This is a direct-admit program in which students become full members of the School of Nursing from their first day. Admission into the top-ranked program is highly competitive.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Minnesota

Mississippi

University of Mississippi, University

• Semesterly Tuition: Resident - $4,626 | Nonresident - $13,410
• Program Length: Four years
• Accreditation: CCNE

The University of Mississippi, often called “Ole Miss”, has a traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing program that has distinguished itself with the high quality of its training. Ranked 67th in the country by U.S. News, the University of Mississippi offers a "2+2" BSN pathway. In this program, students spend the first two years completing nursing school prerequisites before moving to a two-year dedicated nursing program. Applicants must have a 21 ACT or 990 SAT score and a minimum 3.0 GPA for entry into the nursing program.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Mississippi

Missouri

Saint Louis University

• Semesterly Tuition: $26,130
• Program Length: Four years
• Accreditation: CCNE

Ranked 67th best BSN program in the country by U.S. News, Saint Louis University has provided high-quality education and training to nurses for nearly a century. SLU offers three different BSN programs: a traditional four-year pathway, a second-degree accelerated program, and an online RN-to-BSN bridge.

In six of the last seven years, St. Louis Magazine has named an SLU faculty member as the "Top Nursing Educator in the Region," lending credit to the quality education offered at this private Catholic university. The institution is also a pioneer in nursing education, as it created the first accelerated BSN and comprehensive online MSN programs in the country.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Missouri 

Montana

Montana State University, Bozeman

• Semesterly Tuition: Resident - $3,028 | Nonresident - $14,524
• Program Length: Four years
• Accreditation: CCNE

Ranked 67th best Bachelor of Science in Nursing program in the United States, MSU's Mark and Robyn Jones College of Nursing offers traditional four-year and accelerated 3-year BSN programs. The 4-year track allows students to work directly with patients by their junior year, providing valuable hands-on clinical training to aspiring nurses. On the other hand, the 3-year pathway allows students who already have a bachelor's degree to seamlessly transition into a nursing career.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Montana

Nebraska

University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha

• Tuition Per Credit: Resident - $391 | Nonresident - $1,053
• Program Length: Two years
• Accreditation: CCNE

The University of Nebraska Medical Center provides high-quality nursing education and clinical training in one of the country’s leading health sciences centers. The BSN program is ranked 15th in the country by U.S. News and offers BSN degrees through traditional, accelerated, and RN-to-BSN pathways.

UNMC's traditional BSN program requires two years of prerequisites from an accredited college or university. All BSN students get lab and clinical training through state-of-the-art labs and simulations alongside rotations at local healthcare facilities.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Nebraska 

Nevada

University of Nevada, Las Vegas

• Annual Tuition: Resident - $9,299 | Nonresident - $26,255
• Program Length: 16 months
• Accreditation: CCNE

Rated the 67th best BSN program in the country by U.S. News & World Report, the University of Nevada at Las Vegas offers multiple paths to earning a BSN degree. Their traditional BSN undergraduate program requires students to have completed all prerequisite courses before taking the program’s three consecutive 15-week semesters.

The school also offers an accelerated second-degree BSN as an online, synchronous curriculum that can be completed in approximately one year of intensive, full-time didactic education. Though UNLV has previously offered an RN-to-BSN bridge program, it is currently on hold.
 
>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Nevada

New Hampshire

University of New Hampshire, Durham

• Annual Tuition: Resident - $15,520 | Nonresident $35,290
• Program Length: Four years
• Accreditation: CCNE

The University of New Hampshire offers a traditional four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing program that U.S. News ranked 93rd best in the nation. The university divides the program's curriculum between biological, social sciences, and humanities courses.

Additionally, students get to start taking nursing courses early in the program, integrating nursing core concepts into their preliminary education. They complete clinical training at area health facilities, community health agencies, and a state-of-the-art simulation laboratory. The senior year culminates in a capstone practicum.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in New Hampshire

New Jersey

Rutgers University, New Brunswick

• Semesterly Tuition: Resident - $8,003 | Nonresident - $14,109
• Program Length: Four years
• Accreditation: CCNE

The BSN program at Rutgers University is part of the Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences department. Offering programs across all levels of nursing practice, Rutgers' BSN curriculum is the 67th best in the nation, per U.S. News rankings. Reflecting the university's dedication to excellence and quality education, BSN graduates have a 95.4% first-time NCLEX pass rate.

Rutgers University offers a traditional 4-year BSN, a 2+2 program for community college transfers, and a full-time 14-month accelerated BSN. The university also has a fully online, 4-semester RN-to-BSN bridge for ADN-trained nurses.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in New Jersey

New Mexico

University of New Mexico, Albuquerque

• Semesterly Tuition: Resident - $4,169 | Nonresident - 12,048
• Program Length: Four years
• Accreditation: CCNE

U.S. News ranks the University of New Mexico's BSN program 67th in the country. Also recognized as the 6th-best Mountain West Region and 15th-best Southwest nursing program, UNM offers an exceptional education to its students. The university also awards over $900K in nursing scholarships to eligible students.

UNM offers a pre-licensure BSN at multiple campuses and as either a freshman direct-entry or dual degree program. The school also has an online RN-to-BSN bridge for ADN nurses.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in New Mexico

New York

New York University, New York City

• Annual Tuition: $60,438
• Program Length: Four years
• Accreditation: CCNE

NYU's Rory Meyers College of Nursing sets the standard for the state and nation with an astounding 99% first-time NCLEX pass rate and graduates with the highest median salaries. Ranked 9th best BSN program in the country by U.S. News, NYU offers an accelerated 15-month BSN for second-degree students and a traditional 4-year pathway.

Traditional BSN and select students are eligible to participate in a specialized fellowship dedicated to the care of older adults. The school’s clinical training takes place in some of the nation’s most esteemed medical centers, while the didactic training offers a robust liberal arts education in the arts and sciences.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in New York

North Carolina

Duke University, Durham

• Semesterly Tuition: $25,258
• Program Length: 16 months
• Accreditation: CCNE

Ranked the third-best BSN program in the country, Duke University only offers a BSN degree to candidates who have completed the required prerequisites and already hold an undergraduate degree. Students can complete this campus-based, full-time program in 16 months.

Duke provides graduates with the education and training that they need to become competent nursing professionals with over 58 credit hours of study and almost 800 hours of clinical experience. The program allows students the opportunity to earn nine credits towards a master's degree.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in North Carolina

North Dakota

University of North Dakota, Grand Forks

• Annual Tuition: Resident - $10,808.16 | Nonresident - $16,212
• Program Length: Four years
• Accreditation: CCNE

UND's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program consistently leads to a first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate well above the national average. The four-year, 121-credit-hour program is ranked 112th in the country by U.S. News. In addition to the traditional BSN program, the school also offers an online RN-to-BSN bridge for ADN or diploma-trained RNs.

Admission to the full-time program is available on an early admission basis to select students with exemplary high school performance. Also, 76% of undergraduate students at the University of North Dakota receive $12,700 per year in financial assistance.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in North Dakota

Ohio

Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland

• Annual Tuition: $64,100
• Program Length: Four years
• Accreditation: CCNE

Case Western Reserve’s BSN program is ranked 5th best in the country by U.S. News, and this rating is owed in large part to the program’s unique approach. While most nursing programs only offer nursing education and clinical training during the final two years of study, CWR provides students with hands-on training in the first month of freshman year.

Attending Case Western Reserve University as a nursing student is costly, and the school only has a traditional, 4-year BSN. However, CWR nursing students benefit from 1,300 clinical hours, and graduates pass the NCLEX at rates above the national average. Despite the downsides, it seems like attending CWR for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing is well worth it.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Ohio

Oklahoma

University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City

• Annual Tuition: Resident - $5,337 | Nonresident - $22,647
• Program Length: Two years
• Accreditation: CCNE

The Fran and Earl Ziegler College of Nursing at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center is the 51st-best BSN program in the country. Prospective students have four total BSN pathways to choose from, depending on their academic and professional backgrounds. Students with 67 academic hours of prereqs attend the traditional BSN program, and those with prior degrees have an ABSN option.

Additionally, OUHSC offers LPN to BSN and RN to BSN programs for working nurses. Students can complete these hybrid online programs in as little as two semesters on a full-time academic schedule.

>> Show Me Top 10 Nursing Schools in Oklahoma

Oregon

Oregon Health and Science University, Portland

• Total Tuition: Resident - $59,523 | Nonresident - $92,538
• Program Length: Three years
• Accreditation: CCNE

Oregon’s Health and Science University’s BSN program is ranked 9th best in the nation by U.S. News. Available at five campuses, the traditional BSN program takes three years across nine terms to complete. Alternatively, students with non-nursing bachelor's degrees can attend OHSU's ABSN program to become a nurse in 15 months.

ADN-trained nurses can attend OHSU's fully online RN to BSN bridge program. Available in a part or full-time capacity, this program provides an affordable option for RNs who want to earn a bachelor's degree. The 9-month program has 33 total credits for OCNE students and 39 for non-OCNE.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Oregon

Pennsylvania

University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia

• Tuition: $56,212
• Program Length: Four years
• Accreditation: CCNE

Not only does the University of Pennsylvania offer the best BSN in the state, but U.S. News named it the best program nationwide. Beyond that, QS World University went so far as to call UPenn the best nursing program in the world.

The program emphasizes community involvement and cultural awareness. Additionally, UPenn's nursing curriculum features a state-of-the-art simulation lab, clinical practice, and an extensive mentorship program. Students also have the unique opportunity to apply their credits at UPenn toward undergraduate and master's degrees.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Pennsylvania

Rhode Island

University of Rhode Island, Kingston

• Annual Tuition:  Resident - $16,408 | Nonresident - $35,804 | New England Regional - $26,995
• Program Length: Four years
• Accreditation: CCNE

Ranked the 67th-best BSN in the country, the University of Rhode Island’s Bachelor of Science pre-licensure program offers a traditional, four-year nursing curriculum. The university designed this program to provide students with foundational nursing theory and hands-on training in clinical practice.

URI's BSN encompasses 120 credits and provides clinical training in hospitals, community health agencies, nursing homes, schools, and clinics throughout the state. The university also offers an on-campus and an online RN-to-BSN program for working nurses.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Rhode Island

South Carolina

Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston

• Semesterly Tuition: Resident - $7,811 per semester | Nonresident - $14,515
• Program Length: 16-month
• Accreditation: CCNE

With a 99% NCLEX pass rate, $4.9 million in research funding, and a specialty program emphasizing palliative care, it’s no surprise that MUSC's accelerated BSN is ranked 39th in the nation by U.S. News, and its RN-to-BSN program is 4th.

The program was first established nearly 140 years ago. It offers nursing students clinical practice opportunities at the Medical University Hospital, private, county, and military hospitals, community health agencies, clinics, daycare centers, and gerontology facilities.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in South Carolina

South Dakota

South Dakota State University, Brookings

• Tuition Per Credit: Resident - $259 | Nonresident - $376
• Program Length: Four years
• Accreditation: CCNE

Ranked 67th best BSN program in the United States by U.S. News, SD State offers multiple paths to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. These options include a standard 4-year BSN, a 12-month accelerated BSN, and a flexible, 100% online RN to BSN bridge. The traditional BSN has a direct admit option for students who have the right prereqs to enter the school of nursing in their freshman year.

South Dakota State has four campus sites statewide, so students can find BSN programs near them. The university also has an 89% first-time NCLEX pass rate and a 90% job placement rate within three months of graduation.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in South Dakota

Tennessee

University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center, Memphis

• Annual Tuition: Resident - $8,598 | Nonresident - $24,990
• Program Length: Two years
• Accreditation: CCNE

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) was the first nursing college in Tennessee. Founded in 1898, it has grown into a renowned urban medical campus with a reputation for training nursing leaders. 

The BSN program, which was ranked 39th best in the nation by U.S. News, offers multiple paths to the degree, including a traditional four-semester BSN program for students who completed a pre-nursing curriculum. Prospective students can also choose from an accelerated 2nd-degree BSN and a 12-month, online RN-to-BSN bridge.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Tennessee

Texas

University of Texas at Austin

• Annual Tuition: Resident - $12,040 | Nonresident - $45,634
• Program Length: Four years
• Accreditation: CCNE

The BSN program at the University of Texas at Austin is one of the most competitive programs in the country. Ranked as the 15th-best BSN program by U.S. News, this four-year program emphasizes critical thinking and clinical judgment. The curriculum integrates knowledge from nursing, biological and behavioral sciences, and the humanities. Additionally, the school offers an internal transfer option and an ADN to BSN bridge.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Texas

Utah  

University of Utah, Salt Lake City

• Semesterly Tuition: Resident - $3,784 | Nonresident - $13,293
• Program Length: Four years
• Accreditation: CCNE

The University of Utah’s BSN program is ranked the 29th best in the country by U.S. News & World Report. The program offers multiple tracks, including the popular Nursing Early Assurance Program (NEAP) for high school seniors and college freshmen with fewer than 30 credit hours.

Students can also pursue a two-year pre-licensure path, an online RN to BSN bridge, and an SLCC RN to BS Express path. The SLCC option allows Salt Lake Community College second-semester nursing students to seamlessly transfer into the bridge program.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Utah

Vermont

University of Vermont, Burlington

• Annual Tuition: Resident - $8,140 | Nonresident - $20,640
• Program Length: Four years
• Accreditation: CCNE

The University of Vermont’s BSN program, ranked 93rd best in the country by U.S. News, takes a holistic and humanistic approach to nursing. The college treats the profession as both a science and an art based on behavioral, natural, and nursing sciences.

Clinical experiences begin during the sophomore year, and by the end of the program, students will have completed 594 hours of direct faculty-supervised clinical instruction. In 2022, the graduating class had a first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate of 89%, and 97% of graduates were employed within six months of completing the program.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Vermont

Virginia

University of Virginia, Charlottesville

• Annual Tuition: Resident - $19,868 | Nonresident - $56,798
• Program Length: Four years
• Accreditation: CCNE

The University of Virginia offers multiple paths to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Ranked 15th best BSN school in the nation by U.S. News, all nursing candidates conduct independent research and have the opportunity to participate in study-abroad programs. The school offers a traditional four-year BSN and a part-time hybrid online bridge program at three different locations. Students can also choose from several different transfer options.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Virginia

Washington

University of Washington, Seattle

• Quarterly Tuition: Resident - $4,215 | Nonresident - $13,999
• Program Length: Two years
• Accreditation: CCNE

The University of Washington is one of the top-ranked public schools in the country and was ranked the 5th best BSN program in the country by U.S. News. The two-year program builds on student’s first two years of baccalaureate education with both didactic classroom learning and hands-on patient care experience under the guidance of licensed care providers. The school boasts a 98% graduation rate.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Washington

West Virginia

West Virginia University

• Semesterly Tuition: Resident - $4,128 | Nonresident - $12,984
• Program Length: Four years
• Accreditation: CCNE

Ranked the 93rd-best BSN program in the country by U.S. News, West Virginia University has a remarkable success record with a 99% first-time NCLEX pass rate. New grads from the program also boast a nearly 100% job placement rate. The school offers an 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio and administers more than $2 million in research awards, grants, and contracts.

WVU offers three BSN pathways: the four-year traditional BSN, the 18-month BS/BA to BSN program, and the online RN-to-BSN program that can be completed in three semesters. The university requires every student to complete 100 hours of community service.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in West Virginia

Wisconsin

University of Wisconsin-Madison

• Annual Tuition: Resident - $11,216 | Nonresident - $40,612
• Program Length: 4 years
• Accreditation: CCNE

U.S. News ranks the University of Wisconsin's BSN program as the 22nd best in the nation and named the university the 10th best public school. The university offers a 2+2 traditional BSN that is open to UW-Madison undergraduates, transfers, and second-degree seekers. Prospective nursing students may also attend a 12-month accelerated BSN and an online RN to BSN.

>> See the  Top 10 Nursing Schools in Wisconsin

Wyoming

University of Wyoming, Laramie

• Tuition: $18,862
• Program Length: Four years
• Accreditation: CCNE

The Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing at the University of Wyoming is the 135th-best BSN program in the nation, according to U.S. News. The school offers a four-year on-campus Bachelor of Science option with clinical sites, mainly in Laramie and Cheyenne. Second-degree students can attend a 15-month summer-to-summer accelerated BSN option, while current registered nurses can take the online RN-to-BSN bridge.

>> See the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Wyoming 
 

FAQs About BSN Programs

• How many BSN programs are there in the US?
  • There are approximately 1,000 accredited BSN programs in the United States.
• Which state has the easiest nursing program?
  • Every accredited nursing program has to demonstrate that it meets the same rigorous standards to prepare a nurse to provide high-quality patient care. No matter what program you attend or where it is located, in order to get your nursing license, you will need to pass the NCLEX-RN.
• How many RN to BSN programs are there in the U.S.?
  • Though accredited programs are constantly modifying and expanding their offerings, at the time of this writing, there are 777 RN-to-BSN programs available in the United States.
• How long is a BSN program?
  • Most BSN programs take three to four years to complete without any prior education. However, direct-entry and RN to BSN programs can take as little as one year.