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Top Nursing Schools In The Us

Last updated on: Apr 26, 2025

Ranked: The Top Nursing Schools in the US for 2025

Q: What is the highest rank in nursing school?

In nursing, the highest academic rank is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or PhD in Nursing. These degrees prepare nurses for leadership roles in healthcare, clinical practice, research, and policy. Within nursing schools, the highest academic rank usually refers to a professor or faculty member with a PhD or DNP.

By: Caleb S.

26 min read

Reviewed By: Betty P.

Published on: Feb 6, 2025

Selecting the right nursing school is a critical step in your healthcare career. With so many great options available, it can be difficult to choose where to begin.

To help make your decision easier, we’ve highlighted the top nursing schools in the US for 2025. These schools are known for their outstanding clinical training, strong academic programs, and commitment to shaping the future of nursing.

If you're starting your nursing journey or advancing your education, these institutions offer the foundation you need to succeed.

Let’s explore the schools that are making a difference in nursing education this year.

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The Best Nursing Schools in the US: Rankings for 2025

Here are the best-performing schools for nursing education in the USA for the academic year 2025.

Rank	University Name	Overall Reputation Score
1	Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing	100
2	University of California, San Francisco School of Nursing	98.5
3	University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing	98.2
4	Duke University School of Nursing	97.4
5	Columbia University School of Nursing	97.1
6	University of Washington School of Nursing	96.8
7	University of Michigan School of Nursing	95.6
8	NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing	94.3
9	University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Nursing	93.8
10	University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing	93.4

Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing

Location: Baltimore, MD

Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing (JHUSON) is one of the leading nursing schools in the U.S., recognized globally for its excellence in nursing education, research, and clinical practice. Located in Baltimore, JHUSON is part of Johns Hopkins University, a world-renowned medical research institution. The school is especially known for its focus on leadership, research, and clinical skills.

Programs Offered

JHUSON offers a wide range of programs, including BSN, DNP, and PhD in nursing. Specialized tracks like Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Anesthetist, and Clinical Nurse Specialist provide advanced training for those seeking leadership roles in healthcare.

Application and Admission Requirements

BSN Program:

High school diploma or equivalent
SAT or ACT scores (optional)
Minimum GPA of 3.0
Prerequisite coursework in biology, chemistry, and math
Personal statement and letters of recommendation

Graduate Programs:

Bachelor’s degree in nursing
GRE scores may be required for some tracks
Minimum GPA of 3.0
Interview required for certain tracks (e.g., Nurse Practitioner)

Tuition Fees

For the 2024-2025 academic year, tuition is around $70,000 per year for graduate programs and $60,000 per year for the BSN program. Additional fees for clinical placements and textbooks apply.

Interview Rate

JHUSON typically invites 20%-40% of applicants for interviews, particularly for graduate programs.

Financial Aid

The school offers various financial aid options, including federal loans, need-based grants, and merit-based scholarships. Graduate students can also apply for fellowships and assistantships.

Why This School Stands Out

JHUSON is a leader in nursing education, research, and clinical practice. It consistently ranks among the top nursing schools in the country. This success comes from its commitment to high academic standards and cutting-edge research. Students also benefit from hands-on experience in world-class healthcare settings.

University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Nursing

Location: San Francisco, CA

The UCSF School of Nursing is a leader in nursing education and healthcare research, focusing on innovation and improving patient care. Situated in the heart of San Francisco, UCSF is renowned for its clinical expertise and its contributions to advancing healthcare through research.

Programs Offered

UCSF offers a variety of programs, including a BSN-to-DNP pathway, advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) tracks, and a PhD in nursing. The school is also known for its specialty programs in Nurse Midwifery and Nurse Practitioner.

Application and Admission Requirements

BSN Program:

High school diploma
SAT or ACT scores (optional)
Minimum GPA of 3.0
Prerequisite coursework in the sciences
Personal statement and letters of recommendation

Graduate Programs:

Bachelor's degree in nursing
GRE may be required
Minimum GPA of 3.0
Interview required for certain programs

Tuition Fees

For 2024-2025, UCSF tuition is approximately $40,000 per year for in-state graduate students and $45,000 per year for out-of-state students.

Interview Rate

Approximately 25%-35% of graduate applicants are invited for interviews.

Financial Aid

UCSF offers various financial aid options, including federal loans, scholarships, and assistantships. It also provides special funding for students in specialized nursing programs.

Why This School Stands Out

UCSF is consistently ranked among the top nursing schools due to its strong emphasis on nursing research, clinical excellence, and its focus on addressing global healthcare challenges.

University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing

Location: Philadelphia, PA

The University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing is recognized for its academic rigor, research excellence, and leadership in nursing education. Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Penn Nursing prepares students to lead in nursing practice, education, and research.

Programs Offered

Penn offers BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD programs, with various specializations like Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Anesthesia, and clinical nurse leadership.

Application and Admission Requirements

BSN Program:

High school diploma
SAT or ACT scores (optional)
Minimum GPA of 3.5
Prerequisite coursework in biology, chemistry, and math
Personal statement and letters of recommendation

Graduate Programs:

Bachelor’s degree in nursing
GRE required for some programs
Minimum GPA of 3.0
Interview required for certain tracks

Tuition Fees

For 2024-2025, tuition for graduate programs is approximately $75,000 per year. The BSN program costs around $65,000 per year.

Interview Rate

The interview rate for graduate programs is about 30%-40% of applicants.

Financial Aid

Penn Nursing offers a variety of scholarships, loans, and fellowships. Graduate students can apply for research assistantships and teaching fellowships to help with tuition costs.

Why This School Stands Out

Penn Nursing's emphasis on research and its world-class faculty contribute to its ongoing leadership in nursing education. The school also provides unique opportunities for interdisciplinary learning.

Duke University School of Nursing

Location: Durham, NC

The Duke University School of Nursing is known for its commitment to leadership, research, and innovative nursing education. Located in Durham, North Carolina, it provides a range of undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs. The school has specialized tracks, including Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Anesthetist, and Clinical Nurse Leader programs.

Programs Offered

Duke offers BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD programs, focusing on clinical expertise and leadership in healthcare. The Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Anesthesia programs are particularly well-regarded for preparing students for advanced practice roles.

Application and Admission Requirements

BSN Program:

High school diploma
SAT or ACT scores (optional)
Minimum GPA of 3.0
Prerequisite courses in biology, chemistry, and mathematics
Personal statement and letters of recommendation

Graduate Programs:

Bachelor’s degree in nursing
Minimum GPA of 3.0
GRE may be required for some programs
Interview may be required for certain tracks

Tuition Fees

For 2024-2025, tuition for graduate programs is approximately $70,000 per year, while the BSN program costs around $60,000 per year.

Interview Rate

Duke typically invites 20%-30% of applicants for interviews, especially for advanced practice programs.

Financial Aid

Duke offers financial aid packages that include loans, scholarships, and work-study opportunities. Graduate students may also receive fellowships and research assistantships.

Why This School Stands Out

Duke’s reputation for nursing education is backed by its commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration and its top-tier clinical training opportunities. The school offers one of the best nurse anesthesia programs in the country.

Emory University Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing

Location: Atlanta, GA

Emory University’s Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing is highly regarded for its commitment to nursing education and community health. Located in Atlanta, Georgia, it offers a diverse range of programs that emphasize leadership, clinical practice, and patient-centered care.

Programs Offered

Emory offers BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD programs with specialties in nurse anesthesia, nurse practitioner, and nursing education.

Application and Admission Requirements

BSN Program:

High school diploma
SAT or ACT scores (optional)
Minimum GPA of 3.0
Prerequisite courses in sciences
Personal statement and letters of recommendation

Graduate Programs:

Bachelor’s degree in nursing
Minimum GPA of 3.0
GRE scores may be required
Interview required for some tracks

Tuition Fees

Tuition for the 2024-2025 academic year is approximately $60,000 per year for the BSN program and $70,000 per year for graduate programs.

Interview Rate

Emory University typically invites 20%-30% of applicants for interviews.

Financial Aid

Emory offers a range of financial aid opportunities, including scholarships, loans, and work-study options. Graduate students may also apply for assistantships.

Why This School Stands Out

Emory is well known for its community health focus and leadership in nursing education. The school offers extensive clinical practice opportunities and a strong connection to Atlanta's health systems.

University of Washington School of Nursing

Location: Seattle, WA

The University of Washington School of Nursing is highly regarded for its commitment to improving patient care, health equity, and innovative nursing education. Located in Seattle, Washington, the school prepares students for leadership roles in nursing practice, research, and policy.

Programs Offered

The University of Washington offers a comprehensive range of programs, including BSN, DNP, and PhD programs. The school is known for its specialized tracks in Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Anesthesia, and Advanced Nursing Practice.

Application and Admission Requirements

BSN Program:

High school diploma
SAT or ACT scores (optional)
Minimum GPA of 3.0
Prerequisite courses in biology, chemistry, and mathematics
Personal statement and letters of recommendation

Graduate Programs:

Bachelor’s degree in nursing
Minimum GPA of 3.0
GRE scores may be required
Interview required for some tracks

Tuition Fees

Tuition for the 2024-2025 academic year is approximately $40,000 per year for in-state graduate students and $55,000 per year for out-of-state graduate students.

Interview Rate

The interview rate for graduate programs is 30%-40% of applicants.

Financial Aid

The University of Washington offers a variety of financial aid options, including federal loans, scholarships, and work-study opportunities. Graduate students may also apply for assistantships and fellowships.

Why This School Stands Out

The University of Washington’s School of Nursing is known for its focus on health disparities and population health. Its programs provide a strong foundation in clinical practice and patient-centered care, supported by extensive research and community engagement.

University of Michigan School of Nursing

Location: Ann Arbor, MI

The University of Michigan School of Nursing is one of the top nursing schools in the U.S. It offers a wide range of programs and known for its academic rigor and commitment to advancing nursing practice. Located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the school is deeply committed to clinical excellence and research.

Programs Offered

The University of Michigan offers BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD programs, with specialties in areas like nurse anesthesia, nurse practitioner, and clinical leadership. The school also offers an online RN-to-BSN program for registered nurses seeking further education.

Application and Admission Requirements

BSN Program:

High school diploma
SAT or ACT scores (optional)
Minimum GPA of 3.5
Prerequisite courses in sciences
Personal statement and letters of recommendation

Graduate Programs:

Bachelor’s degree in nursing
Minimum GPA of 3.0
GRE required for some programs
Interview required for certain tracks

Tuition Fees

Tuition for the 2024-2025 academic year is approximately $50,000 per year for out-of-state students and $30,000 per year for in-state graduate students.

Interview Rate

Graduate programs typically invite 25%-35% of applicants for interviews.

Financial Aid

The University of Michigan offers scholarships, loans, and work-study opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate nursing students. Graduate students can also apply for research and teaching assistantships.

Why This School Stands Out

The University of Michigan is renowned for its strong clinical training programs and its research contributions to nursing practice. The school provides numerous opportunities for students to engage in groundbreaking healthcare research.

New York University (NYU) Rory Meyers College of Nursing

Location: New York, NY

NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing is one of the most prestigious nursing schools in the country, offering a wide range of programs that emphasize clinical excellence and nursing leadership. Located in the heart of New York City, NYU Nursing provides students with access to world-class clinical and research opportunities.

Programs Offered

NYU Meyers College offers BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD programs, with specialized tracks in nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology, pediatrics, and family nursing.

Application and Admission Requirements

BSN Program:

High school diploma
SAT or ACT scores (optional)
Minimum GPA of 3.3
Prerequisite coursework in science
Personal statement and letters of recommendation

Graduate Programs:

Bachelor’s degree in nursing
Minimum GPA of 3.0
GRE may be required for some programs
Interview required for certain tracks

Tuition Fees

For 2024-2025, tuition for graduate programs is approximately $70,000 per year, and the BSN program costs around $60,000 per year.

Interview Rate

The interview rate for graduate programs is about 30%-40% of applicants.

Financial Aid

NYU offers a variety of financial aid options, including merit-based scholarships, federal loans, and assistantships for graduate students.

Why This School Stands Out

NYU Meyers College of Nursing stands out due to its strong focus on community health and global nursing practices. The school offers diverse clinical placements and is integrated into the rich healthcare landscape of New York City.

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Nursing

Location: Chapel Hill, NC

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Nursing is a leader in nursing education, known for its emphasis on leadership, clinical practice, and advancing healthcare. Located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, UNC offers excellent programs across all levels of nursing education.

Programs Offered

UNC offers BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD programs, with specialties in nurse practitioner, nurse midwifery, and public health nursing. The school is well-regarded for its commitment to community health and nursing leadership.

Application and Admission Requirements

BSN Program:

High school diploma
SAT or ACT scores (optional)
Minimum GPA of 3.5
Prerequisite coursework in biology and chemistry
Personal statement and letters of recommendation

Graduate Programs:

Bachelor’s degree in nursing
Minimum GPA of 3.0
GRE required for some programs
Interview required for certain tracks

Tuition Fees

Tuition for the 2024-2025 academic year is approximately $45,000 per year for out-of-state graduate students and $25,000 per year for in-state students.

Interview Rate

The interview rate for graduate programs is approximately 25%-35% of applicants.

Financial Aid

UNC offers federal loans, scholarships, and need-based aid. Graduate students can apply for assistantships and fellowships to reduce tuition costs.

Why This School Stands Out

UNC stands out for its emphasis on public health, community engagement, and nursing leadership. The school offers a rich academic experience supported by its location in a hub of healthcare innovation.

University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing

Location: Pittsburgh, PA

The University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing is renowned for its academic excellence and clinical training programs. Located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the school offers a wide range of nursing programs that prepare students for advanced clinical roles and leadership positions in healthcare.

Programs Offered

Pitt offers BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD programs, with specialty tracks in nurse practitioner, nurse anesthesia, and clinical nurse leadership. The school also offers online programs for registered nurses.

Application and Admission Requirements

BSN Program:

High school diploma
SAT or ACT scores (optional)
Minimum GPA of 3.0
Prerequisite courses in the sciences
Personal statement and letters of recommendation

Graduate Programs:

Bachelor’s degree in nursing
Minimum GPA of 3.0
GRE scores may be required
Interview required for certain tracks

Tuition Fees

For 2024-2025, tuition for graduate programs is approximately $50,000 per year, while the BSN program costs around $55,000 per year.

Interview Rate

The interview rate for graduate programs is 30%-40% of applicants.

Financial Aid

Pitt offers a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, federal loans, and work-study programs. Graduate students can apply for research assistantships and teaching fellowships.

Why This School Stands Out

Pitt’s School of Nursing stands out for its focus on clinical excellence, research, and leadership. It offers one of the best clinical training programs, providing students with hands-on experience in diverse healthcare settings.

Wrapping Up!

Choosing the right nursing school is a big decision that will shape your future in healthcare. The schools on this list are some of the best in the country, offering top-notch programs, hands-on training, and great opportunities to grow in the field.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your career to the next level, these schools provide everything you need to succeed.

If you need help with your application, MyPerfectPaper.net is here for you. Our admission essay writing service will help you craft a personal statement that stands out.

Visit our paper writing service to learn more.

See More Lists of the World's Best Universities

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best college for becoming a nurse?

The best nursing school depends on what you’re looking for in terms of specialization, location, and resources. However, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Duke University School of Nursing, and University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) are consistently ranked among the top choices for their strong academic programs, research opportunities, and excellent clinical training.

Is a 3.7 GPA good to get into nursing school?

A GPA of 3.7 is generally considered strong for nursing school applications, but requirements vary by school. Some competitive programs may require higher GPAs (closer to 3.9 or above), while others may accept students with lower GPAs, provided they meet other requirements like test scores, volunteer work, or clinical experience.

t is the hardest nursing school to get into?

The hardest nursing schools to get into are typically those with high academic standards and rigorous entry requirements. Some of the most competitive schools include Johns Hopkins University, University of California, San Francisco, and University of Pennsylvania. These programs often have a lower acceptance rate and require excellent academic records, clinical experience, and a compelling application.

What is the highest rank in nursing school?

In nursing, the highest academic rank is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or PhD in Nursing. These degrees prepare nurses for leadership roles in healthcare, clinical practice, research, and policy. Within nursing schools, the highest academic rank usually refers to a professor or faculty member with a PhD or DNP.

Caleb S.

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Caleb S. has been providing writing services for over five years and has a Masters degree from Oxford University. He is an expert in his craft and takes great pride in helping students achieve their academic goals. Caleb is a dedicated professional who always puts his clients first.

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