Best ADN Programs in Ohio

2023 Best ADN Programs in Ohio

With 100 ADN programs in Ohio and 47 of them accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), how does a student navigate this educational maze to find the best one? The answer lies in thorough research, careful comparison, and a consideration of critical factors.

One important metric to consider is the NCLEX passing rate. In Ohio, ADN students typically experience a range between 16.70% and 91.31%. The NCLEX exam, a significant milestone for any nursing student, determines a graduate’s readiness to practice nursing safely and effectively. Programs that consistently produce high NCLEX passing rates often signify high-quality instruction and student preparedness.

An ADN program’s duration also plays a role in the selection process. Students must remember that an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) in Ohio will generally take between 18 to 24 months to complete. Balancing this commitment with personal obligations and financial resources is an essential aspect of the decision-making process.

Moreover, while the number of ACEN-accredited schools speaks to the quality of ADN Programs in Ohio, students should also explore other factors such as the school’s reputation, faculty credentials, tuition costs, and proximity to their residence.

Each aspiring nurse has unique needs and goals. Therefore, the “best” program for one student may not be the best for another. A diligent exploration of the options will help students identify the ADN program that best aligns with their career objectives and personal circumstances.

2025 8th Annual Best Ranked ADN Programs in Ohio

How Do We Rank The Best ADN Programs In Ohio?

First, we gather a list of all nursing schools offering ADN programs in Ohio and then rank the best school based on the following factors:

• Academic quality (admissions rate, enrollment rate, graduation rate & retention rate, NCLEX passing rates as college-wide quality): 70%
• RNCareers.org’s editorial rankings and the nursing school’s reputation: 20%
• The affordable of the programs offered by the nursing school: 10%
• Our best ranked ADN programs earn a 90% or above grade

More about our ranking methodology.

Nursing Programs Offered by Ohio Nursing Schools

• Registered Nursing: 79
• Family Nurse Practitioner: 16
• CNL: 7
• Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner: 7
• Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner: 6
• Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner: 6
• Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner: 5
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner: 5
• Administration, Research or Clinical Nursing: 4
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner: 4
• Women's Health Nurse Practitioner: 4
• Adult Acute Care Nurse Practitioner: 2
• Adult Nurse Practitioner: 1
• Gerontology Nurse Practitioner: 1

Ohio Nursing Schools with the Most Degree Types

• Case Western Reserve University: 12
• The Ohio State University-Main Campus (Columbus): 10
• University of Cincinnati-Main Campus: 8
• Wright State University-Main Campus: 8
• Kent State University: 7
• University of Akron Main Campus: 6
• University of Toledo: 4
• Walsh University Gary And Linda Byers School of Nursing: 3
• Mount Carmel College of Nursing: 3
• Xavier University: 3

Additional Ohio ADN Programs

ADN Financial Aid and Scholarships for Ohio Nurses

Ohio ADN students have an array of resources at their disposal to assist with their educational expenses. Loans, Grants, and Scholarships form the cornerstone of these resources. The starting point for accessing this financial aid lies with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Loans often act as a primary resource for many students. Federal Direct Loans, offering low-interest rates and flexible repayment plans, are available to students in ADN Programs in Ohio. Be mindful that loans constitute borrowed money and require repayment with interest. Learn more on the Federal Student Aid website.

Grants represent financial aid that doesn’t require repayment. The Federal Pell Grant, based on financial need, is a common choice for undergraduate students. Explore more about Pell Grants on the Federal Pell Grant Program page.

Scholarships, like grants, are a form of aid that doesn’t require repayment. A multitude of scholarships exist for Ohio ADN students, each with unique eligibility criteria and award amounts. Visit the Ohio Higher Ed website to explore state-specific scholarships.

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the key to all these financial aid resources. By detailing a student’s financial situation, the FAFSA determines eligibility for federal loans, grants, and many scholarships. Ensure to submit your FAFSA as early as possible to maximize your financial aid opportunities.

H2: ADN Scholarships for Ohio Nurses

• Ohio Nurses Foundation Scholarship
• Available to Ohio residents enrolled in ADN programs. Award Amount: Up to $1,000. Application Deadline Month: April.
• Ohio Legion of White Cross Nurses Scholarship
• Offered to ADN students demonstrating outstanding academic and leadership skills. Award Amount: Varies. Application Deadline Month: March.
• Ohio League for Nursing Scholarship
• Aimed at students who show promise of becoming future leaders in nursing. Award Amount: $500. Application Deadline Month: May.
• Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center Scholarship
• Assists Cincinnati residents pursuing an ADN. Award Amount: Up to $2,000. Application Deadline Month: June.
• Ohio University Chillicothe Nursing Scholarship
• Exclusively for nursing students at Ohio University Chillicothe. Award Amount: Varies. Application Deadline Month: March.

Each scholarship represents a valuable opportunity for Ohio ADN students to alleviate the financial burden of their education.

Find ADN Programs in Your State

• Alabama
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• Illinois
• Indiana
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• West Virginia
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• Wyoming

Ohio Resources for ADNs

Individuals pursuing ADN programs in Ohio have access to numerous state and organizational resources that can help guide them through their nursing education journey. These resources offer valuable information on nursing programs, educational institutions, and job prospects within the state. Here are some key resources for those seeking an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) in Ohio:

• The Ohio Board of Nursing: This regulatory body is responsible for overseeing the licensure and practice of nurses in the state, ensuring adherence to high standards of care and professionalism.
• Ohio Nurses Association (ONA): The ONA is a professional organization that supports nurses by offering continuing education, networking opportunities, and advocacy for the nursing profession in Ohio.
• Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) College Navigator for Ohio: This tool allows prospective students to find and compare colleges offering ADN programs in Ohio based on various factors such as location, size, and cost.
• Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) for Ohio: The BLS provides data on employment, wages, and job outlook for registered nurses in the state, helping aspiring nurses make informed career decisions.
• Ohio Organization of Nurse Leaders (OONL): OONL is dedicated to promoting excellence in nursing leadership by providing support, education, and networking opportunities for nurse leaders across the state.