Who ranks for “best nursing schools”

The University of Pennsylvania is widely ranked as the top university in the United States and the world for studying nursing.

Top National Nursing Schools

University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia, PA): Known for top-tier undergraduate and graduate programs, excellent academic reputation, and diverse master's tracks. Duke University (Durham, NC): Famous for advanced practice, research opportunities, and top-rated online MSN specialties. Johns Hopkins University (Baltimore, MD): A leader in graduate programs, Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) tracks, and clinical research. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor (Ann Arbor, MI): Offers balanced public education, strong clinical training, and robust evidence-based research. Emory University (Atlanta, GA): Highly ranked for both Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and graduate nursing specialties.

Key Factors to Consider

Program Type: Decide if you need a BSN, Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), as top rankings vary by degree level. NCLEX Pass Rates: Check each school’s historical first-time pass rates for the national licensing exam. Clinical Partners: Look for schools affiliated with major teaching hospitals or medical centers for hands-on experience.

If you share your preferred degree level (BSN, MSN, or DNP) or location preference, I can provide a more tailored list of top programs for you.