Best Nursing Schools in Maryland in 2024

Maryland, also known as the “Free State,” is home to a rapidly growing need for quality nurses. Currently employing 51,550 registered nurses, projections show the state will require 83,710 new nurses by 2030, equating to 5,250 new registered nurses annually. In terms of RN salaries in Maryland, it is at $82,660 per year or $39.74 per hour,

With huge demand on the horizon and a ranking of #7 in the U.S. for the percentage of nurses needed by 2030, nursing students would be wise to consider the top nursing programs the state has to offer. Whether you are seeking an undergraduate or a graduate program in nursing, there is a number of nursing programs in the state. That is why, to help you decide, we ranked the top 10 nursing schools in Maryland. The schools on this list are ranked according to accreditation, and NCLEX pass rates, among others.

• There are 28 nursing schools in Maryland.
• The CCNE accredits 12 nursing school(s)
• The ACEN accredits 17 nursing school(s).
• The NCLEX passing rate for BSN students in Maryland is between 55.50% and 92.80%.
• The NCLEX passing rate for ADN students in Maryland is between 79.88% and 97.27%.
• The number of Registered Nurses currently employed in Maryland is 51,550.
• Registered Nurses in Maryland earn an average of $82,660 per year or $39.74 per hour.
• The percentage of U.S. Registered Nurses who work in Maryland is 2%.
• Maryland will need 83,710 new Registered Nurses by 2030 or 5,250 new nurses per year.

Overview of Nursing Programs in Maryland

Maryland offers a wide variety of nursing programs to prepare you for an exciting and rewarding career. As a nurse in Maryland, you can choose from many different degree paths depending on your career goals:

• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) – Usually takes 2 years and prepares graduates to take the NCLEX-RN exam and become RNs. Offered at community colleges statewide.
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – Traditional 4-year degree for RNs, covers more advanced topics versus the ADN. Graduates still take the NCLEX-RN. Offered at universities and colleges.
• RN to BSN programs – For current RNs with an associate’s degree to bridge to the bachelor’s level. Expanding leadership skills and career options. Can often be completed online in 1-2 years.
• Accelerated BSN (ABSN) – Intensive 12-18 month bachelor’s degree for those who already have a bachelors in another field. Coursework plus hundreds of clinical hours prepare graduates to be RNs.
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Graduate-level degree for advanced specialty nursing careers like nurse practitioner or educator roles. Usually takes 2+ years.
• DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) – Designed for very high level nursing practice in a chosen specialty, with more clinical hours and residency components. Leads to titles like DNP or DrNP.
• PhD in Nursing – Focused on nursing research and academia. 4+ year program typically requires a dissertation and specializations are available.

When choosing a nursing program in Maryland, key factors to consider include accreditation status, NCLEX pass rates, clinical placement opportunities, tuition costs and financial aid availability, and student-to-faculty ratio for mentoring. Programs range from small private schools to larger state colleges and universities across Maryland.

All nursing programs and schools must be approved by the Maryland Board of Nursing, which provides oversight of standards and licensing in the state. Upon completing an approved nursing program, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to receive your Maryland nursing license (RN/LPN) and begin practicing.

What Are the Best Nursing Schools in Maryland?

Online Nursing Programs for Maryland Students

Many out-of-state online nursing programs accept students residing in Maryland. However, it is important to verify that the online nursing program will meet Maryland state requirements for clinical placements and prepare you for Maryland nursing licensure.

Some online programs partner locally with healthcare organizations, while others require you to arrange your own clinical sites. Look for online programs that offer academic support, mentoring, and clinical coordination specific to Maryland-based nursing students.

When researching schools, check for key indicators like proper accreditation (CCNE or ACEN), competitive NCLEX pass rates demonstrating quality education, dedicated nursing academic advisors, generous transfer credit policies, and availability of financial aid.

Accelerated BSN (ABSN) Programs

For career changers and those with a prior bachelor’s degree in another field, Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs offer the fastest route to becoming a registered nurse. These intensive programs take 12-18 months to complete and help build upon foundational transferable skills gained from your first degree.

Here are the top accelerated BSN programs in Maryland:

Best ABSN Schools in Maryland

• Best ABSN Programs in Maryland

ABSN admissions are competitive, with required prerequisites varying by school but generally including science courses like microbiology, anatomy and physiology. A higher cumulative undergraduate GPA (3.0+) is also common.

Once enrolled, ABSN students complete nursing-specific coursework and clinical rotations full-time. The jam-packed curriculum covers topics like evidence-based practice, physiology, anatomy, pharmacology, and more. Clinical placements allow students to apply knowledge while gaining vitally important hands-on experience.

ABSN programs require dedication to handle the fast pace and clinical hour requirements while also juggling school-life balance. But they offer rewarding preparation for taking the NCLEX-RN exam and launching into nursing practice shortly after graduation.

RN to BSN Programs

For current RNs holding an Associate Degree in Nursing, Associate of Science in Nursing, or hospital nursing diploma, RN to BSN programs build upon prior nursing education with junior and senior-level coursework aligned with BSN competencies.

Here are the top nursing schools in Maryland for RN to BSN programs:

Best RN to BSN Schools in Maryland

• Best RN to BSN Programs in Maryland

Many schools offer RN to BSN programs in a flexible online format, allowing working nurses to continue professional duties while completing courses part-time. Some programs also incorporate in-person elements or a hybrid approach.

BSN-level course topics expand upon the medical-surgical foundation taught in ADN programs to include population health, health policy, evidence-based practice, nursing leadership, and community education skills.

Pursing an RN to BSN provides opportunities for increased responsibility and earning potential. Many healthcare settings now prefer or require the BSN, considering it the minimum credential for nursing practice. Supervisory, administrative and advanced practice nursing roles generally mandate the BSN degree.

When comparing RN to BSN programs, look for generous transfer credit/prior learning assessment policies to maximize credits from your prior nursing diploma or ADN. Also evaluate availability of academic advisors, tuition costs and financial assistance.

Master’s in Nursing (MSN) Programs

Those interested in advancing into an upper-level nursing career can pursue a Master of Science in Nursing degree (MSN), with popular specializations including:

Nurse Practitioner (NP) – Gain advanced medical assessment, diagnosis and treatment skills to provide primary care, working closely with collaborating physicians. Specialty focuses include family, adult-gerontology, pediatrics, psychiatric mental health and more.

Clinical Nurse Specialist – Excel as an expert in a specific patient population, diagnosis or aspect of care delivery. Includes extensive clinical work paired with evidence-based quality improvement initiatives.

Nurse Midwife – Emphasizes care for women across lifecycles including gynecological care, prenatal education, delivery, postpartum and newborn care. Requires national certification for advanced practice.

Nursing Administration/Leadership – Prepares RNs for managerial roles improving patient care systems, staff development and healthcare operations. Includes business, HR, budgeting and data analysis skills.

Nursing Informatics – Blend clinical expertise with information management, data analysis and technological tools to guide evidence-based practice and administrative decision making.

MSN programs take around 2-3 years to complete for full-time students, with options for part-time enrollment as well. Undergraduate requirements include completing an accredited BSN program with coursework in statistics and research methodology. Work or volunteer experience in healthcare environments is also extremely valuable before applying.

Admissions are competitive, with factors like undergraduate GPA, entrance exam scores (GRE or MAT), professional resume and purpose essay playing a role. Clinical components of MSN tracks involve 500+ hours practicing advanced skills under preceptor supervision.

Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs

Nurse practitioner positions are one of the fastest growing nursing roles due to the primary care provider shortage. NPs diagnose, treat acute/chronic illnesses, and promote wellness for a panel of patients in collaboration with physician partners.

Here are the top schools in Maryland offering NP programs:

Best NP Schools in Maryland

• Best NP Programs in Maryland

Those interested in the NP career path have two main options:

1. Earn your MSN degree with NP population focus
2. Pursue a Post-Master’s NP Certificate if you already hold an MSN

Both pathways include 500-1,000 clinical practicum hours woven into the curriculum, allowing students to apply specialized assessment and management skills in settings aligning with their specialty population focus (family, adult-gerontology, pediatric, psychiatric mental health, etc.)

Following NP academic and clinical training, students sit for national NP certification exams administered by organizations like the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) before qualifying for advanced practice nursing licensure.

NP programs build healthcare business skills as well, with a curriculum covering documentation, coding, billing, and reimbursement. Assignments also strengthen critical thinking via case analysis and evaluating the latest medical evidence and guidelines.

The nursing provider career path offers increased earning potential. NPs earn an average national salary of $121,000 per year, with NP positions among the fastest growing in healthcare. Pursuing an NP degree or certificate can reward you with lucrative compensation, career advancement, and the privilege of expanding healthcare access through skilled, compassionate practice.

Doctoral Nursing Programs (DNP & PhD)

For nurses seeking the highest level of clinical excellence or research scholarship, two terminal degree options exist:

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs prepare elite nursing clinicians, leaders and healthcare change agents through a practice-focused doctoral curriculum. The DNP expands skills in evidence-based practice, quality improvement, program evaluation and complex organizational analysis with an embedded clinical residency or capstone for real-world systems experience. DNP programs typically take 2-3 years post-Master’s or 3-4 years post-BSN.

PhD Nursing programs focus intensely on research methodology, statistics and preparing nurse scientists for academic faculty and investigative careers. The hallmark of PhD nursing programs is an emphasis on independent nursing research immersion through dissertation work over 3-5 years of doctoral coursework. Programs also incorporate practical teaching experience and nursing theory as cornerstones.

When researching doctoral programs (DNP or PhD), look for faculty expertise matching personal research interests as an indicator of collaborative opportunities. Also inquire about teaching assistant roles, journal reviewing experience and conference travel support. Support like conference presentations, manuscript publication and external grant collaboration greatly advance graduates’ career potential. For PhD admissions, funding availability in the form of scholarships, traineeships or graduate teaching positions also factors highly.

Benefits of Becoming a Nurse in Maryland

The State of Maryland provides exceptional opportunities to launch a standout nursing career:

• High Demand – With over 100,000 practicing nurses statewide, healthcare organizations continue hiring RNs and advanced practice nurses to deliver exceptional patient care. Nurses play vital roles in expanding community health access.
• Competitive Pay – Maryland hosts some of the highest nursing wages regionally and nationally across settings like hospitals, clinics, home health, and academic medical centers. Average Maryland RN salaries exceed $76,000 annually with the potential to earn over $100K as nurse practitioners and other advanced roles.
• Varied Work Environments – Nurses hold rewarding jobs in diverse settings like trauma centers, NICUs, school health, public health departments, outpatient clinics, skilled nursing facilities and more. This allows you to tailor your career to preferred patient populations and healthcare interests.

How to Earn Your Maryland Nursing License

To obtain nursing licensure in Maryland, candidates must:

1. Graduate from an approved nursing program meeting Maryland Board of Nursing education requirements
2. Pass the NCLEX Licensure Exam (NCLEX-RN for RNs or NCLEX-PN for LPNs), with required pass rates varying over time
3. Submit Licensure Application with documentation to Maryland Board of Nursing for review/approval
4. Maintain Licensure through renewals including 20 continuing education hours every 2 years

Many students complete necessary steps to earn Maryland nursing licensure while finishing their degree program. Some schools assist graduates with gathering documentation, registering for the NCLEX, and tracking license approval.

Newly licensed RNs or advanced practice nurses must renew their Maryland nursing license before expiration every two years per state requirements. This involves paying a fee and submitting continuing education hours gained on the job, through specialty certifications or structured courses.

Finding the Right Nursing School in Maryland

When researching the many exceptional nursing programs across Maryland, key indicators to look for include:

Accreditation

Confirm the nursing program holds approval from the Maryland Board of Nursing and accreditation through either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). This ensures quality standards for nursing curriculum, faculty and student outcomes are met.

NCLEX Pass Rates

The NCLEX national nursing exam pass rate for first-time test takers shows how effectively the program prepares graduates for entry into practice. Research historical NCLEX pass rates and current averages as a quality benchmark.

Tuition Costs & Financial Assistance

Evaluate both direct tuition expenses plus additional fees for items like laboratory use, technology, books/supplies and parking/transportation. Identify all cost components you will incur over the length of the degree. Also determine availability of school-based scholarships, external nursing grants and government assistance through programs like Nurse Corps to lower expenses.

Student-to-Faculty Ratio

A lower student-to-instructor ratio allows for more individualized mentoring, academic support and professional socialization from nursing faculty. Look for averages under 15:1 for a more tailored learning environment. Smaller cohorts also increase hands-on practice during clinical placements.

Clinical Placement Opportunities

Consider the variety healthcare organizations affiliated with the schools for student nurse clinical rotations. Placements spanning hospital specialty units, community clinics, public health and skilled nursing facilities give exposure to diverse patient cases and care models.

Getting Licensed as an RN or NP in Maryland

Upon graduating from an approved Maryland nursing program and passing the NCLEX-RN or NP certification exam, you can obtain formal licensure to begin practicing as an RN or advanced practice nurse across diverse healthcare settings.

Settings with the highest job growth for Maryland nurses are:

• Hospital ICUs and Emergency Departments
• Women’s Health, Labor & Delivery, and OB/GYN Clinics
• Medical-Surgical Floors and Step-Down Units
• Pediatric Hospital Wards and Outpatient Offices
• Outpatient Care and Family Medicine Clinics
• Gerontology and Long Term Care Facilities

Nurses can also pursue specialized credentials over their career aligned with personal interests through continued BSN or MSN education, certificate programs and healthcare subspecialty experience.

The job outlook for nurses statewide remains extremely promising. With over 100,000 nurses already employed, the Maryland healthcare system continues expanding services to meet population needs- fueling strong demand for new nursing graduates to launch rewarding careers close to home.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing Schools in Maryland

What resources help compare Maryland nursing schools and programs?

Maryland is home to high-quality science in nursing programs. The Maryland Board of Nursing website catalogs all state-approved nursing programs with key details on accreditation status, degree types, enrollment, and outcomes. Nurses interested in furthering their degrees can also reference the Maryland Higher Education Commission academic program inventory.

For unbiased comparisons, use third-party nurses resources assessing factors like NCLEX pass rates, tuition costs, strengths of the faculty, clinical training sites, enrollment selectivity, and more. Niche, Nursing Process, and Registered Nursing are reputable national websites profiling nursing schools in Maryland. 

What undergraduate degree and major prepare you become an RN in Maryland?

You have two options– through the ADN and BSN degree. The most common option for registered nursing (RN) practice is the Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN). BSN programs span 4 years and incorporate a comprehensive curriculum aligned with state board of nursing standards for professional licensure after graduation.

Some nurses also pursue the shorter Associate’s Degree in Nursing Program (ADN) at community colleges. However the BSN provides expanded coursework in care management, leadership, research, and public health nursing preferred for advanced bedside and supervisory roles.

Can I pursue a graduate nursing degree in Maryland without a Bachelor’s in Nursing?

While not typical, some Master’s in Nursing programs offer alternate pathways for applicants without initial bachelor’s preparation in nursing. These specialized Master’s programs require you to complete prerequisite RN-level nursing curriculum along with graduate coursework and training over 3-4 years.

Bridge programs allow candidates with existing bachelor’s degrees in other fields like biology, sociology, public health or psychology to transition careers into advanced nursing. However, standard MSN programs strongly prefer candidates who have completed an accredited BSN program and gained professional RN experience prior to starting a graduate nursing degree.

How do I confirm a nursing degree program in Maryland aligns with State Board of Nursing requirements?

The Maryland Board of Nursing’s website provides comprehensive directories of all state-approved Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctoral degree nursing programs meeting educational standards for RN, LPN or advanced practice (APRN) licensure.

Prospective students can easily confirm if a degree granting institution’s nursing major curriculum enables licensure eligibility after graduation. The Board also provides checklists for licensure applicants documenting completion of an approved program to qualify for the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) necessary to start practicing in nursing roles.

What are entry-level nursing job outlook and salary projections in Maryland?

The statewide projection for growth in nursing demand in the state is strong. Fueled by expanding healthcare networks and patient access initiatives, nursing roles top lists as some of the most in-demand, excellent careers offering entry-level nursing positions.

After passing NCLEX examinations and securing license in Maryland, new RNs can expect excellent job prospects with competitive starting salaries around $60,000 – significantly higher than national averages. There is high demand across all healthcare settings – from hospitals to home health agencies to outpatient centers.

Over the next decade, the Maryland healthcare system aims to develop a premier nursing workforce and excellent nursing care. Hence, Maryland is a great place to pursue a career in nursing.

More of the Best Nursing Schools in Maryland

Ranking Methodology and Data Sources

• Ranking Methodology
• University Webpages
• Maryland Board of Nursing
• Department of Education’s College Scorecard
• American Association of Colleges of Nursing
• Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
• U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges Rankings
• Bureau of Labor Statistics Salary Data
• Department of Labor Projected Employment
• Bureau of Economic Analysis Cost of Living Data

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