Best Schools for Undergraduate Nursing?

I'm interested in pursuing a career in nursing and want to find the best undergraduate programs. What schools offer top-notch nursing programs, and what should I look for in a nursing school?

You are on the right track by focusing on schools that have renowned nursing programs. Some reputable universities for nursing include the University of Pennsylvania, Johns Hopkins University, and Duke University. These universities have strong faculty, ample research opportunities, and rigorous coursework in their nursing programs.

However, some state schools, such as University of Arizona, University of Florida, and University of Maryland, also have strong nursing programs. These options may be more affordable, especially for in-state students.

Here are a few things to consider when choosing a nursing program:

1. Accreditation: You want a program that is accredited by either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). This ensures the program meets certain quality standards.

2. Clinical Experience: Top-notch programs will provide ample opportunities for clinical experience in a variety of healthcare settings. This will allow you to acquire hands-on skills before you graduate.

3. NCLEX-RN Pass Rates: The NCLEX-RN is the national licensure examination for registered nurses. Schools should publish the percentage of their students that pass this exam on the first try. High passing rates are often indicative of a good program.

4. Research Opportunities: If you're interested in research, look for programs that offer opportunities to engage in nursing research.

5. Specialization Options: Some schools offer tracks or options to specialize in certain areas of nursing (like pediatric nursing, psychiatric nursing, or critical care nursing) before graduation. If you want to specialize, find a program that offers the specialization you're interested in.

Remember to consider non-academic factors too, like location, size, cost, and overall campus culture. A school can have a fantastic nursing program, but if you're not happy there, you may not get the most out of your education. Planning a few college visits might be a good next step once you've done some initial research.