Best Nursing Schools in North Carolina in 2024

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. The school is the nation’s first public university. Its School of Nursing which was established in 1950, offers a variety of programs to cater to students of various nursing career stages. It houses the Education Innovation Simulation Learning Environment (EISLE) to equip students with practical learning experiences. The EISLE has 22 full body mannequins and 12 human patient simulators. UNC offers a bachelor's degree. Unique to their program is the RN to MSN option that they offer, in addition to various other graduate and doctoral options. UNC's BSN program originated in 1950, and was the first baccalaureate nursing program in North Carolina. They were also the first to offer an MSN program in North Carolina, in 1955.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing - This BSN program has three options of study—the traditional BSN track, Accelerated Track, and the Military Pathway. The traditional track is a pre-licensure program designed for students with no prior undergraduate degree. The accelerated track is a four-semester option for students with a non-nursing baccalaureate degree. Meanwhile, the latter is for Armed Forces Veterans who would like to obtain a BSN degree. Students are immersed in clinical instruction as early as the first semester in the program. An intensive capstone is also included in their final year.

MSN Health Care Leadership and Administration - Designed to equip students with the competencies for developing, implementing and measuring innovation impacts in care delivery, this program can be completed in full-time or part-time options. The full-time option allows a five-semester completion, while the latter requires three years to complete. Curriculum delivery is through on-campus immersion and online sessions with synchronous and asynchronous learning components.

MSN to DNP - Two entry options are offered in the MSN to DNP program. The first one is for the master’s prepared Advanced Practice Registered Nurses, and the other is for BSN-prepared nurses who possess a master’s degree in a health-related MHA, MBA, or MPH program. Curriculum delivery is through on-campus immersions as well as online coursework. Students can take the program either in part-time or full-time study.

BSN to DNP Healthcare Leadership and Administration - With fully-online coursework, this program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed for leadership positions in health care settings. Part-time and full-time study options are available with asynchronous and synchronous learning components.

Duke University is located in Durham, North Carolina. The Duke University School of Nursing (DUSON) is unique in that their only BSN program is an accelerated BSN (ABSN) - it is designed for adult learners with a prior bachelors degree.  DUSON's primary focus is on educating nurses to advanced degrees; in fact, aside from the ABSN degree students, they graduated their last BSN students in 1983. This non-profit educational institution is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC).  Its School of Nursing is composed of scholars and clinicians who aim to produce transformational leaders in nursing. Moreover, its ABSN and MSN programs are CCNE-accredited.

Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing - This 16-month second degree program is designed for students who have a non-nursing undergraduate degree. It requires a full-time campus-based study with 800 hours of clinical hours. In terms of hands-on experiences, students have the opportunity to learn in the sole accredited healthcare simulation education facility in North Carolina. Program graduates can sit in the NCLEX-RN licensing exam.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) - With distance-based mode of instruction, this program has 11 majors. Eight of which are advanced practice while three are non-clinical majors. The online delivery allows for limited on-campus sessions, requiring only 4-to-5-day intensives.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) - This program is designed for advanced practice nursing master’s degree holders or post-BSN students. Because of the flexible schedule, students can be employed while enrolled in the program. Moreover, it is taught by faculty with a wide array of experiences in leadership, clinical practice, and patient safety.

PhD Program in Nursing - By building on prior knowledge and skills, this program prepares students for contributing new knowledge in the areas of care systems and chronic illness. Only a small number of qualified students are admitted in order for them to work closely with faculty member/s. Curriculum is a blend of mentored experiences and formal coursework.

East Carolina University (ECU) has been in existence since 1908, when it broke ground as a teachers training institution. ECU is a SACSCOC-accredited university in Greenville. Its College of Nursing prepares students for informed treatment option articulation and direct expert care provision. In partnership with several colleges, an RIBN program is available, allowing students to be dually enrolled in ECU and any local community college for completion of both Associate and Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing - This program prepares students for roles as healthcare providers, coordinators and managers. Composed of general education and professional nursing courses, it can be completed in four years and one summer semester. Clinical experiences are conducted in various community agencies including hospitals, private homes, and clinics.

RN to BSN - Designed for registered nurses to seamlessly pursue a baccalaureate degree in nursing, this online RN to BSN program can be completed in four semesters (16 months). This CCNE-accredited program provides students with a personalized learning experience. Classes are conducted fully online with a supportive online community. An early assurance pathway is also available to ensure a seat in the RN to BSN program upon ADN completion.

Accelerated Second-Degree BSN (ABSN) - This program allows students with non-nursing baccalaureate degrees to obtain a BSN degree in just 12 months. The 12-month completion requires full-time study. Program completers are eligible to sit in the NCLEX-RN licensing exam.

Masters of Science in Nursing - Students in this program are prepared for science and nursing integration, and knowledge application in dynamic environments. Seven tracks for advanced practice roles are available.

Doctor of Nursing Practice - Taught by doctorly-prepared faculty, this program provides personalized mentorship for students. The curriculum is interprofessional, preparing students for the healthcare future. In order to validate didactic learning, the curriculum includes laboratory simulations and standardized patient experiences.

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) - This PhD in Nursing program equips students for their roles in advancing the foundation of health care through research and scholarly works. Students are prepared to make a contribution and formulate new nursing theories.

Gardner-Webb University is located in Boiling Springs, North Carolina. The Hunt School of Nursing has had an ASN program since 1965 and has expanded to include a traditional BSN program, an accelerated BSN program, an RN to BSN program, an MSN program, with concentrations in education and administration, and a DNP program with concentrations in Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and leadership.

Its Hunt School of Nursing offers comprehensive nursing programs which allows a seamless progression. Service learning is embedded in the curriculum through the university’s partnership with community healthcare facilities. Moreover, its nursing programs are student-centered which are tailored to the national competencies of nursing practice. Aside from its baccalaureate, masters and doctoral programs, the university also offers dual degree, nursing certificates and post-doctoral certificates.

Associate of Science in Nursing - Designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to become a Registered Nurse (RN), this on-campus program can be completed in two years or five semesters. Moreover, an Advanced Placement Program option is offered which allows program completion in just three semesters. Graduates can sit in the NCLEX-RN.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) - With required 129 hours, this traditional pre-licensure baccalaureate program can be completed in four years. Program graduates are fully-equipped to sit in the NCLEX-RN and fulfill the roles as registered nurses.

Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) - This fast-track program combines a student's previous courses in his/her baccalaureate degree with the curriculum’s nursing core. Hands-on experiences are given emphasis through simulations and preceptorships at community clinical sites. It is a full-time, face-to-face program, and is approved by the North Carolina Board of Nursing.

Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Davis RN–BSN)- Offered online, this program is designed for registered nurses who would like to obtain a BSN degree. With the university’s articulation agreement, students who completed an ADN degree in NC community college may earn a BSN in Gardner-Webb University in as little as 1 year.

Master of Science in Nursing -This program allows direct entry for BSN students in the university who graduated within the previous year. The Nursing Administration and Nursing Education tracks require a project or thesis before completion.

Doctor of Nursing Practice - This DNP program is composed of an online coursework and a practicum experience in chosen healthcare facility. Students can choose among three areas of concentration—Post-MSN, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

Located in Cullowhee, Western Carolina University (WCU) is a four-year public university which aims to incorporate research, service, engagement, and teaching in its learning opportunities. The school offers nationally ranked, accredited, affordable undergraduate and graduate programs at WCU’s main campus in Cullowhee, NC, at Asheville instructional site, and online. Students have access to state-of-the-art classroom and lab space as well as opportunities for hands-on experience through on and off-site clinical partnerships and service learning programs. This regional institution of higher education has a student to faculty ratio of 17:1. Its School of Nursing under the College of Health and Human Sciences provides students with hands-on-experiences through its state-of-the-art laboratory and classroom.

Their nursing department offers a pre-licensure BSN program, an accelerated BSN program (allowing a student with a prior bachelor's degree to obtain a BSN degree) and an RN to BSN program, which is an online program. Their programs are also offered at Biltmore Park Towne Square in Asheville, North Carolina; this location offers only a selection of majors, nursing being one of the few.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing - By building on the prerequisite courses taken prior to program admission, this program prepares students for their roles as registered nurses. Included in this 8-semester program are traditional lecture courses and clinical instructions conducted in various healthcare agencies and institutions in the area. The latter begins as early as the student's first semester in the program. Graduates are eligible to sit in the NCLEX-RN.

Online RN to BSN - With accreditation from CCNE and approval from the North Carolina Board of Nursing, this program is designed for Registered Nurses who would like to obtain a baccalaureate degree in nursing. Because it has a completely online mode of instruction, students can work while concurrently enrolled in the program. This RN to BSN program can be completed in just 4 semesters, leading to a BSN degree. 

Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) - This ABSN program allows students with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees to earn a BSN degree in four continuous semesters. Due to its flexible curriculum format, students can work part-time while being enrolled in the program. Upon program completion, students can sit in the NCLEX-RN licensing exam.

WNC RIBN Program - This program allows dual enrollment to any area community college and in WCU. Upon completion of the first three years in the community college, students can finish their fourth year in WCU through online classes. This provides a seamless transition from an ADN to a BSN degree.

Masters of Science in Nursing - The MSN degree at WCU is available in two tracks—Nurse Educator and Nurse Leadership. Either of the tracks can be completed in 18 months for a full-time study. Students are equipped with both academic and field-based experiences. The program is offered 100% online to cater to working individuals.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (Post-MSN) - Offered completely online, this practice-focused DNP program is geared to prepare graduates for nursing practice at the highest level of their specialty. This 34-credit hours program builds upon the student’s previous theoretical and clinical knowledge.

DNP Nurse Anesthesia- With two tracks available—Nurse Anesthesia and Family Nurse Practitioner, this BSN to DNP program can be completed in 36 months. The 36-month completion requires a full-time study.  

Located in Boone, Appalachian State University is a premier public educational institution in the state. This undergraduate university values inclusion and holistic growth. It was founded in 1899, and currently holds an accreditation from the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Its Department of Nursing has a broad in-depth curriculum molding graduates to apply the educational research and principles in their nursing practice.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) - Established in 2010, this 126-credit hour program is designed to equip future generalist registered nurses.  Graduates of this CCNE-accredited pre-licensure program are eligible to sit in the NCLEX-RN licensing exam and practice as entry-level nurses.

RN to BSN - This program is tailored for Registered Nurses with a Diploma in Nursing or ADN degree who would like to pursue a BSN degree. Delivered in an online distance education format, it is guided by the core content of The Essentials of Bachelor's Education in Nursing.  Various online strategies are used in lesson delivery including case study analyses, scholarly papers, and projects.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) - Designed for registered nurses, this MSN program with concentration in nursing education is geared to prepare them for their roles as nurse educators in various settings. With an online distance mode of instruction, the program takes 24 months of completion for a part-time study.  Program graduates of this CCNE-accredited program can sit in the Certified Nurse Educator exam.

Named after its location, University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) is a SACSCOC-accredited four-year public educational institution. They offer a prelicensure BSN program and an RN to BSN program.  The RN to BSN program is offered online.  The RN to BSN program has six start-times throughout the year, making it a desirable option for the working nurse. Its School of Nursing (SON) under the College of Health and Human Services has CCNE-accredited programs. Moreover, the SON offers a Simulation Learning Center (SLC) which utilizes low, medium and high-fidelity human patient simulators. This center provides a realistic environment for optimum learning experience.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) - Two entry points are available at UNCW to obtain a BSN degree. The pre-licensure option is designed for students with no prior baccalaureate degree, and are seeking to take the NCLEX-RN licensing exam. Meanwhile, the second entry track is through the RN-BSN option. This option allows registered nurses with a nursing diploma or associate degree to obtain a BSN degree through online delivery. The said option can be completed in as few as 12 months. The BSN program aims to produce generalist nurses who can provide a family-centered professional nursing care to fit the ever-changing healthcare delivery system.

Master’s of Science in Nursing - The MSN has two tracks of specialization- the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and the Nurse Educator. The former track is offered primarily online with a curriculum composed of clinical education and advanced theory. Program graduates can sit in the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) certification exam for FNPs. Meanwhile, the Nurse Educator program, which can be completed in as few as 12 months prepares nurses to influence the field of education through nursing. The program is offered completely online.

Doctor of Nursing Practice - With program completion of five to 14 semesters, this DNP program is a practice-focused doctoral degree designed for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). The said program completion varies on the option of study taken—either part-time or full time.

Located at Greensboro, the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG) is the largest state university in the Triad. This four-year public university has served the area for more than 125 years. The curriculum places emphasis on a learner-centered environment. Its BSN, MSN and DNP programs under the School of Nursing are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing - Designed to prepare graduates for the NCLEX-RN and for their roles as entry-level nurses, this BSN program can be completed in four academic years and one summer. Degree components include Nursing Cognate Requirements, Minerva Academic Curriculum (MAC), upper division major courses, and electives. The program is rigorous with competitive admission.

RN to BSN - This program provides registered nurses an opportunity to obtain their BSN degree. Coursework can be done in a part-time study plan. A cohort sequence is also available, allowing students to complete the required nursing courses in three semesters. Moreover, a Veterans Access Program (VAPS) is offered for medically-trained veterans for them to have access in an innovative educational program towards gaining a BSN. The Active-Duty Military BSN program is also designed for active-duty military accepted in the commissioning program.

Master of Science in Nursing - With concentrations in Nursing Education and Nursing Leadership and Management, this MSN program can be completed online. The fully online format is designed for working RNs. The Nursing Education concentration is designed for a part-time study that concludes with a capstone course. Meanwhile, the Nursing Leadership and Management concentration requires 504 clinical hours. This MSN program is accredited by CCNE.

Master of Science in Nursing/ Master of Business Administration in Health Management - This Dual-degree program is offered jointly with the UNCG Bryan School of Business and Economics. With on-campus and online classwork, this program will develop students’ nursing and business skills in healthcare leadership. 

Doctor of Nursing Practice - Delivered in hybrid program with online classes and on-campus sessions, this DNP program has available concentrations in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care, and Nurse Anesthesia. The former is accredited by Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs. Classes are small with opportunity for experiential work.

Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Nursing - With all courses offered fully-online, this certificate program has three areas of concentration—Advanced Practice Foundations, Advanced Nursing Education, and Nursing Leadership and Management. A completion of at least 10-15 credit hours in the 2-year period is required in order to earn a certificate. Moreover, earned credits may be used in meeting the degree program requirements.

University of North Carolina (UNC) at Charlotte is a four-year public urban research university. Its School of Nursing under the College of Health and Human Services produces graduates who are equipped to practice in various health care settings.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing- Upper Division Nursing Major - Designed to produce generalist nurses who can function in various care settings, this program can be completed in four years. Upon program completion, graduates can sit in the NCLEX-RN licensing exam. The curriculum includes liberal arts, sciences, and generalist nursing education. An RN to BSN pathway is also available. For both the Upper Division and RN to BSN programs, the BSN degree requires at least 120 credit hours.

Master of Science in Nursing - This program is geared towards producing graduates who are fully-equipped for advanced practice in clinical nursing, or Systems/Populations nursing. For the former, focuses are: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Practitioner (AGACNP). Both are two-year programs. Meanwhile, the Systems/Population concentration includes, Nurse Administrator, Community/Public Health Nursing, and Nurse Educator.

Graduate/ Post Graduate APRN Certificates - UNC Charlotte’s School of Nursing offers two types of certificates—the graduate certificate and the post graduate certificate. The available graduate certificates are Nurse Administration, Nursing Educator, and Applied Nursing Informatics which is the latest addition to the tracks. For the post-graduate, APRN certificates offered are Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner Across the Lifespan.

Doctor of Nursing Practice - This terminal practice degree in Nursing prepares students for the highest clinical level by building on the student's prior knowledge. Students are also trained to provide leadership in dynamic healthcare systems. The program also places emphasis on evidence-based practice gained from research findings. Two specializations are offered for the DNP program—the BSN to DNP: Nurse Anesthesia Across the Lifespan and the Post-Master's DNP.

WSSU's undergraduate Nursing program prepares students for careers as general personnel in the workforce. The program teaches theory, clinical practicums and public service experiences that are essential to delivering professional nursing care in a variety of settings and to diverse populations. These experiences, according to WSSU, foster values such as kindness, compassion, justice, loyalty and also cultural competence and sensitivity.

Winston-Salem State University offers students many path to earn a BSN including pre-licensure BSN, RN to BSN, ABSN, Paramedic to BSN, and LPN to BSN.

The pre-licensure BSN curriculum for WSSU generic students consists of the General Education Core requirements for Winston-Salem State University, pre-requisite courses for the nursing major and the nursing courses.

The ABSN Option at WSSU is designed to give individuals who have a bachelor’s degree in another discipline an opportunity to complete the BSN in 13 months.

The RN to BSN path at Winston-Salem State University recognizes registered nurses as adult learners with experience in nursing and an active personal life. If you need a student-friendly program with enough flexibility to meet your specific needs, the WSSU RN to BSN program is for you.

The Paramedic to BSN path allows the paramedic who has graduated from an accredited paramedic program and is certified to practice as an Emergency Medical Technician-Paramedic by the North Carolina Office of Emergency Medical Services and/or the National Registry to complete their BSN. The student must have at least one year of experience as an EMT-P.

The LPN to BSN path allows practical nurses licensed by the North Carolina Board of Nursing to complete their BSN. The student must have at least one year of direct patient care experience in the state of North Carolina. Direct patient care is defined as hands on, face-to-face contact with patients for the purpose of assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation.

The Family Nurse Practitioners (FNP) and Advanced Nurse Educators (ANE). Whether you want to practice nursing at a higher level, teach, or move into a leadership role, WSSU’s graduate and professional nursing programs can help you reach your goal.

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) graduate will be prepared to function at the highest level of advanced nursing practice. We offer 2 pathways to the DNP degree: BSN-DNP and MSN-DNP.

With its main campus located in Hickory, Lenoir-Rhyne University is a co-educational, liberal arts university. This private educational institution has a student to faculty ratio of 13:1. Its School of Nursing, which started in 1910, is the state’s oldest nursing program. Its nursing programs are grounded on the liberal arts and Christian faith. Moreover, its MSN and DNP programs are CCNE-accredited. In terms of student involvement, the university has societies and organizations such as the Mu Alpha, Honor Society of Nursing, and Sigma Theta Tau International.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing - In order to obtain a BSN degree, two pathways are offered at LR. The RN to BSN route can be completed in around three to four semesters for students who possess an associate degree in nursing. Meanwhile, the other option is through the Regionally Increasing Baccalaureate prepared Nurses (RIBN). This pathway allows dual enrollment at LU and another area community college.

Master of Science in Nursing - This MSN program is offered in two tracks of concentrations—nursing education and nursing administration with 39 and 33 credit hours, respectively. This allows customization to fit the student’s goals, preparing them for roles as nurse educators or nurse administrators. Moreover, to ensure flexibility, the program is offered fully online and can be completed on a part-time or full-time study.

Doctor of Nursing Practice - With an aim to develop doctorly-prepared nurses, this DNP program is offered in two tracks. The BSN to DNP track builds on student’s baccalaureate nursing skills, preparing them for their roles as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). The other track, the Post-Master’s DNP program builds on the skills acquired from the student’s MSN degree. To offer flexibility, most of the coursework is done in a highly-interactive online class

Pfeiffer University Nursing Program: Excellence in North Carolina

Pfeiffer University’s nursing program is recognized as one of the best in North Carolina due to several key factors that contribute to its excellence and reputation.

Educational Objectives and Philosophy

• Comprehensive Curriculum: The nursing program at Pfeiffer University integrates evidence-based knowledge from various disciplines, including liberal arts, sciences, and nursing theories. This holistic approach ensures that graduates are well-rounded professionals capable of critical thinking and effective communication in diverse healthcare settings[1].
• Christian Values: The program incorporates Christian caring principles such as compassion, competence, and commitment, aligning with the university’s mission to promote human dignity, integrity, and service. This philosophy fosters a nurturing learning environment that supports both academic and personal growth[1].

Accreditation and Approval

• Accreditation: Pfeiffer’s nursing program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and approved by the North Carolina Board of Nursing. This accreditation ensures that the program meets high standards of educational quality, which is crucial for students seeking advanced degrees or specialized nursing positions[2][4].

High NCLEX Pass Rates and Job Placement

• NCLEX Success: Pfeiffer University boasts a remarkable 100% pass rate on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) for two consecutive academic years. This achievement reflects the program’s rigorous standards and the effectiveness of its curriculum in preparing students for professional practice[3].
• Job Placement: All graduates from recent classes received job offers by the time of their graduation, underscoring the program’s success in equipping students with the skills and knowledge demanded by employers in the healthcare industry[3].

Hands-On Learning and Clinical Partnerships

• Practical Experience: The nursing program emphasizes hands-on learning through clinical practicums at top healthcare facilities, including Atrium Health, Wake Forest Health, Levine Children’s Hospital, and Novant Health. This practical experience is essential for developing competent and confident nursing professionals[5].
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Pfeiffer’s Harris Science Building features a modern nursing skills learning laboratory, providing students with access to advanced simulation and training equipment[2].

Student Support and Resources

• Personalized Attention: With small class sizes, Pfeiffer University ensures that students receive individualized attention from faculty members. This support includes regular study and review sessions, particularly for students who may need additional help to meet the program’s high academic standards[3].
• Career Development: The university offers extensive resources for career development, including access to nursing scholarships, job placement services, and opportunities for professional advancement through further education[2].

Commitment to Excellence and Lifelong Learning

• High Standards: The program maintains high academic standards, requiring students to achieve at least a B average in their courses. This rigorous approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the challenges of the nursing profession[3].
• Lifelong Learning: Pfeiffer’s nursing program encourages continuous personal and professional growth, promoting a culture of lifelong learning and servant leadership among its students[1].

In summary, Pfeiffer University’s nursing program excels in North Carolina due to its comprehensive and values-driven curriculum, high NCLEX pass rates, strong job placement record, hands-on learning opportunities, personalized student support, and commitment to lifelong learning. These attributes collectively make it one of the top nursing programs in the state.

Named after its location, Queens University of Charlotte is a coeducational private university. This master’s level educational institution was founded in 1857. With a foundation on the liberal arts, this university puts emphasis on collaborative and active learning. The Queens Presbyterian School of Nursing is conveniently located near the two premier healthcare systems of the state. Students also have the opportunity to learn hands-on experiences through its Hunt Nursing Simulation Center with the guidance of award-winning faculty. Moreover, the university’s BSN and MSN degrees are CCNE-accredited.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing - To cater to a student’s various academic attainments, this BSN degree has three entry tracks. The traditional, Accelerated and RN-BSN track. The traditional and accelerated tracks can be completed in four and three semesters, respectively. The RN to BSN option is conducted online. Program admission is competitive.

Master of Science in Nursing - Designed for nurses who would like to specialize in their practice, this MSN program is available in two flexible pathways—the BSN to MSN and the RN to MSN. Registered nurses with an active license and who possess an associate degree may obtain an MSN degree in just over two years. The program has four distinct tracks allowing students to customize their course with respect to their career goals. The four tracks offered are: Clinical Nurse Leader, Nurse Administrator, Nurse Educator, and Nursing Informatics. These tracks are also available as post-master’s certificates for nurses who already have an MSN degree. The said post-master’s certificate takes two or three semesters to complete.

Accelerated BSN - Open only to students who currently hold a bachelor’s degree, this program starts in the summer (mid-May) and takes three semesters to complete - summer, fall and spring (one year).

With more than 150 years of educational service, Fayetteville State University is a public comprehensive university in Fayetteville. The university aims to advance knowledge by integrating teaching, learning public service, and research. Its School of Nursing under the College of Health, Science, and Technology (CHST) has a CCNE-accredited baccalaureate degree program. The school also has a Student Nursing Association which provides networking opportunities, support, and mentoring to its students.

Nursing Pre-Licensure - This Pre-Licensure BSN program is designed to equip students with the nursing skills needed for the NCLEX-RN, for their roles as entry-level nurses, and for advanced nursing studies. The curriculum includes Nursing Research, Ethics, and Theory, Community Nursing, and Capstone, among others. Hands-on training is ensured through the university’s state-of-the-art simulators as well as clinical experiences with the teacher’s guidance.

Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor in Science in Nursing (BSN) Program - With nursing skills instruction and science-based learning, this program builds on the student’s prior knowledge. This allows students to progress from basic clinical care, teaching them skills such as leadership, communication and critical thinking for professional advancement.

Online Master of Science in Nursing: Patient Safety and Quality Degree (MSN) - With a focus on safety principles, students in this online MSN program will receive high-quality nursing education. This program, which focuses on Patient Safety and Quality, is the first in the state. To offer flexibility to working individuals, it is conducted in an online format. Upon program completion, students are prepared to work as coordinators in risk management, quality assurance, quality improvement and patient safety.

University of North Carolina at Pembroke is located in Pembroke, North Carolina.  UNC Pembroke was founded in 1887 as the Croatan Normal School and educated American Indian teachers. Presently, UNCP caters to a diverse student body. The university’s curriculum is founded in the liberal arts. UNCP’s McKenzie-Elliott School of Nursing under the College of Health Sciences offers a traditional pre-licensure BSN program, an RN to BSN program, and MSN programs. They also partner with local community colleges in the RIBN program.

Traditional Prelicensure BSN Program - With two phases, this program can be completed in 4 academic years. The first phase is the 58-semester lower-division work inclusive of nursing prerequisites and liberal arts. The second phase is the 62-semester upper-division work which places emphasis in the nursing major. The said phase is taken during the student’s junior and senior years in the department. Upon completion of the first and second phase, students are conferred a BSN degree and are eligible to sit in the NCLEX-RN licensing exam.

RN to BSN Program - With all nursing courses offered completely online, this completion option is designed for RNs who would like to obtain a BSN degree. The curriculum builds on the RNs competencies earned from his/her previous degree. Sessions are eight-week long and can be completed in 12 months or two years for an accelerated and part-time plan of study, respectively.

Graduate MSN Programs - Tailored for RNs with a baccalaureate degree, this MSN program is delivered in a blended format—majority of online coursework with face-to-face sessions.  Available tracks are: Clinical Nurse Leader, Nurse Educator, and Clinical Prevention and Population Health. Program can be completed in as few as two years through an individualized plan of study for full-time students. A part-time study plan is available as well.