Best Nursing Schools in West Virginia in 2024

Known as the Mountain State, West Virginia’s rugged natural beauty provides a picturesque backdrop for education. With over 19,800 registered nurses currently employed and earning an average salary of $67,640 per year, the need for accredited nursing schools in West Virginia continues to grow. In fact, the state will need to produce 1,440 new registered nurses per year by 2030 to meet demand.

To help aspiring nurses get their nursing degrees, we’ve compiled this list of the best nursing schools in the state. By researching nursing courses at some of West Virginia’s top colleges and comparing each school’s accredited nursing program, we spotlight several outstanding bachelor’s of science in nursing programs available across this mountainous state. 

• There are 26 nursing schools in West Virginia.
• The CCNE accredits 10 nursing school(s)
• The ACEN accredits 14 nursing school(s).
• The NCLEX passing rate for BSN students in West Virginia is between 74.00% and 99.11%.
• The NCLEX passing rate for ADN students in West Virginia is between 77.40% and 100.00%.
• RNs currently employed in West Virginia are 19,800.
• RNs in West Virginia earn an average of $67,640 per year or $32.52 per hour.
• West Virginia needs 24,110 new RNs by 2030 or 1,440 new nurses per year.

Overview of Nursing Programs in West Virginia

West Virginia offers a wide variety of nursing programs to prepare you for an exciting and rewarding career in the nursing field. As you consider your options, it’s important to understand the different types of nursing degrees available as well as the key factors to evaluate when choosing a nursing program in West Virginia.

Some of the common nursing degree programs offered across West Virginia’s colleges and universities include:

• 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 researching nursing schools in West Virginia, important factors to consider include:

• Does the program hold specialty accreditation from either ACEN or CCNE? This signifies quality standards are met.
• What is the program’s pass rate for the NCLEX licensing exam? Graduates must pass this exam to become licensed RNs.
• Does the curriculum align with your career goals? There are opportunities to specialize.
• How supportive are the faculty and career resources? Look for robust student services.

Additionally, familiarize yourself with the licensing requirements set by the West Virginia Board of Nursing. All candidates must meet criteria like education level, exam results and application components outlined by the Board to earn an RN or advanced practice license to legally work in West Virginia.

What Are the Best Nursing Schools in West Virginia?

Online Nursing Programs for West Virginia Students

With the growth of distance education, many prospective West Virginia nurses wonder if they can complete their degree fully online.

The answer is yes – numerous online nursing programs across the country accept students residing in West Virginia due to state-by-state reciprocity agreements.

Just ensure any online nursing program you enroll in is authorized to legally operate in West Virginia.

The key benefit of online nursing degrees is the flexibility to progress through courses in an asynchronous format while still working or managing other life responsibilities. The curriculum quality mirrors on-campus programs but allows you to study and submit assignments within a virtual environment without commuting.

Many online nursing programs require some in-person clinical rotations which faculty help arrange at approved healthcare organizations close to your location. This hands-on clinical experience ensures online nursing graduates meet the same high standards as campus-based peers and qualify to become licensed nurses. ‍

Accelerated BSN (ABSN) Programs

For students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field and want to transition into nursing, Accelerated BSN (ABSN) programs offer the chance to earn a second bachelor’s degree and become a registered nurse in just 12-18 months of intensive nursing curriculum.

Compared to a traditional four-year BSN program, ABSNs appeal to driven candidates ready to immerse themselves in rigorous nursing coursework full-time for an accelerated route into the profession.

The fast pace requires dedication with classes on many weeknights and weekends, yet those willing to put in the intensive study reap the rewards of joining the nursing workforce more rapidly.

Typical requirements to qualify for competitive admissions include:

• Completed bachelor’s degree with 3.0 minimum GPA
• Science pre-requisite courses (Anatomy, Physiology, etc.)
• TEAS or HESI nursing entrance exam scores
• Essays and letters of recommendation
• Background check and health/drug screening

ABSN students complete the same clinical experience hours as traditional BSN peers – usually arranged weekdays. The condensed course schedule involves classroom lectures, simulations labs, writing care plans, group projects and tests.

Following graduation from an accredited ABSN program, these new nursing graduates take the NCLEX just like all incoming nurses. ABSN graduates boast impressive first-time NCLEX pass rates in the low to mid 90% range, proving the rigor of these rapid training programs. ‍

RN to BSN Programs

Registered nurses who initially earned an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or nursing diploma have the opportunity to further their education through RN to BSN programs tailored for licensed nurses. 

Best RN to BSN Schools in West Virginia

• Best RN to BSN Programs in West Virginia

There are key motivations drawing ADN nurses back to continue their studies:

• Develop new nursing knowledge and skills: Grow proficient in healthcare technology, research, leadership and communication to prepare for nursing specialty or supervisory roles.
• Career advancement and pay: Earning your Bachelor’s in nursing qualifying for higher nursing positions and earning potential. BSN nurses typically start around $8,000 per year more than ADN peers.
• Education for graduate nursing programs: A baccalaureate degree is required for admittance to MSN, DNP and PhD nursing graduate programs should you decide to continue.

Today’s RN to BSN programs differ greatly from hospital diploma nursing education of the past. Current bridge curricula recognize working nurses’ experience and are offered via online, on-campus evening/weekend and hybrid modes to conveniently fit around existing work schedules.

Crediting prior academic and nursing clinical credits allows RNs to potentially complete their program in 1-2 years depending on full-time or part-time study. This makes balancing ongoing shifts or family obligations achievable while advancing long-term nursing career options.

Quality indicators when selecting an RN to BSN program include faculty possessing doctorate degrees, generous transfer credit policies, availability of dedicated nursing academic advisors, and options for credit for national certification or clinical hours completed externally.

Investing in an RN to BSN offers strong ROI with new RN career development opportunities and salary growth over time. Many nurses discover new passions for nursing specialty areas like pediatrics, oncology or surgery through expanded studies, shaping the ongoing career journey.

Master’s in Nursing (MSN) Programs

For RNs desiring to gain advanced nursing knowledge and enter into elite practitioner roles with higher earning powers and leadership sway, a Master’s of Science in Nursing represents the stepping stone to this next tier.

Common MSN degree specializations include majors like:

• Nurse Practitioner (NP): Work autonomously diagnosing and caring for patients across the lifespan. Sub-specialties include family, pediatrics, women’s health, mental health, etc.
• Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS): Work alongside healthcare teams and patients with highly complex conditions and coordinate care.
• Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM): Provide care and support to women before, during and after pregnancy and childbirth. Popular in rural regions.
• Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA): Administer anesthesia during surgeries and medical procedures. Highly competitive pathway.
• Nursing Administration: Take on leadership roles managing hospital nursing units or departments. Includes business curriculum.

Today’s MSN programs adapt to busy nurses through online and hybrid delivery with minimal required visits to campus. Part-time and full-time options lasting roughly 2-3 years enable customization around individual lifestyles and shifts worked. Expect a major research project before degree conferral.

To set yourself up for admission success to competitive MSN programs, ensure you secure:

• High GPA – often 3.0+
• Strong letters of recommendation
• Relevant statement of purpose
• RN experience in your chosen specialization
• Completed application and prerequisites

MSN graduates become eligible for specialized national certification and state licensure which open up lucrative practitioner career avenues improving patient outcomes through evidence-based care.

Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs

Among the most popular MSN specialization tracks is the nurse practitioner (NP) role which equips RNs for autonomous advanced clinical practice across diverse settings.

NPs perform in-demand jobs like:

• Ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests
• Diagnosing complex acute and chronic illnesses
• Prescribing medication therapies
• Managing patient cases from intake through follow-ups
• Referring patients to other specialized care
• Providing preventative care guidance on healthy lifestyles
• Educating both patients and their families

Common NP population foci include:

• Family nurse practitioners (FNPs): Care for patients of all ages
• Adult-gerontology primary care NPs (AGPCNP): Focus on adult and aging patients
• Pediatric primary care NP (PNP): Care for infants through young adult patients
• Psychiatric mental health NPs (PMHNP): Help patients manage mental health disorders

Nurse practitioner programs blend rigorous academic curriculum covering advanced diagnosis, treatment planning and disease management with over 500 supervised clinical hours working directly with patients.

Expect core courses in advanced pharmacology, pathology, health assessment and diagnosis ‍‍- plus a final patient care capstone. Classroom learning pairs with hands-on skills applied across healthcare settings under the guidance of an experienced MD or DO preceptor.

NP programs are available via:

• Full-time accelerated tracks condensing studies into 12-24 months.
• Part-time programs at a lighter course load pace taken while working.
• Post-master’s certificates for those already holding another nursing master’s qualification.

Overall, NP program length ranges from 2-3 years depending on prior credentials. Graduates qualify to sit for national NP certification exams like those offered through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.

Lifelong learning expectations also encourage NPs to pursue Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degrees to remain sharp and open up teaching roles. Through an NP career, you gain immense ability to provide comprehensive, compassionate and proactive care to boost community wellbeing.

Doctoral Nursing Programs (DNP & PhD)

For expert nurse leaders aiming to shape healthcare transformations through executive roles or cutting-edge research, nursing profession doctorates open up career paths advancing clinical best practices and patient advocacy.

The two primary nursing doctorate degree pathways include:

• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): Designed as the highest clinical practice degree in nursing. Often pursued by nurse practitioners seeking to excel as clinicians.
• PhD in Nursing: Research-focused degree preparing graduates for careers as scientists making discoveries to progress nursing science and education. Those interested in academia pursue this route.

DNP vs. PhD Track Comparison

While both represent prestigious nursing doctorates, some core differences between DNP and PhD pathways involve:

• DNP: Equips nurses for highest level of patient care delivery expertise. Includes an evidence-based final “capstone project” solving a clinical challenge.
• PhD: Focuses on academic research skills like planning studies, writing grants, publishing findings. Final degree requirement is a five-chapter dissertation advancing original nursing science discoveries.

Additional Doctoral Nursing Study Considerations

• Both degrees allow nurses to advance into executive healthcare leadership as experts guiding clinical standards regionally or nationally.
• PhD in nursing programs often provide full funding support and scholarships in return for research involvement under nursing faculty. Be sure to ask prospective schools about available financial assistance.
• Following graduation, look for residency and mentored fellowships to refine your expertise in niche nursing practice issues.

Pursuing a doctorate sends a strong message you are committed to keep strengthening your strategic skills, research acumen, and practice authority. Nursing needs these high-caliber leaders to promote better system outcomes!

Benefits of Becoming a Nurse in West Virginia

Beyond rewarding personal fulfillment from saving and improving lives, nursing careers in West Virginia offer fantastic stability, competitive incomes and upward mobility potential within the profession.

The West Virginia Center for Nursing projects exceptional job growth and high demand for qualified nurses due to aging populations, nurse retirements and healthcare delivery changes. This translates to near guarantee of employment options statewide upon licensure.

Salaries for nurses in West Virginia also continue rising with the Bureau of Labor Statistics reporting average annual incomes of:

• $50,800 for LPNs
• $62,160 for RNs
• $103,880 Nurse Practitioners

Across settings ranging from hospitals to home health or governmental agencies, nursing grants diversity in not just specialization but tailored work environments and schedules that promote personal/professional balance while making a difference through patient interaction.

From tackling opioid addiction in the state’s rural counties to ensuring infants receive quality care, nursing careers enable success-driven individuals to continually upskill through higher credentials and watch their positive impacts transform communities.

How to Earn Your West Virginia Nursing License

To obtain legal nursing licensure for beginning practice in West Virginia, first you must graduate from an approved nursing degree program recognized by the West Virginia Board of Examiners for Registered Professional Nurses.

Following degree conferral, you then must pass the NCLEX national licensing exam in your category – either RN for BSN graduates or APRN for NP/DNP degree holders. Scoring above the NCLEX pass benchmark means you get licensed!

Finding the Right Nursing School in West Virginia

With nursing jobs projected to continue growing rapidly in West Virginia – predicted over 2,100 openings annually – securing your degree from one of the state’s top 10 nursing schools prepares you for better opportunities. That is why, you might want to get your nursing degree in one of the best nursing schools in the state.

As you evaluate quality West Virginia nursing school options, key aspects to investigate include:

● Accreditation Status

Seeking programs accredited from either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) verifies academic standards that meet Board of Nursing expectations. Make sure it is also approved by the West Virginia State Board of Nursing. Confirm your target school of nursing holds full approval.

● Program Reputation and NCLEX Pass Rates

Passing the NCLEX national RN licensing exam after graduation is mandatory to then apply for West Virginia RN licensure allowing practice. So each college’s nursing program pass rates hint at teaching effectiveness. Favorably reviewed picks like the University of Charleston and West Virginia Wesleyan boast strong NCLEX scores.

● Cost, Scholarships and Financial Assistance

Between tuition and required supplies, nursing education adds up quickly. More affordable community college and technical school Associate Degree in Applied Science in Nursing options exist, like at West Virginia Junior College, helping budget-conscious learners get quality nursing training. Also seek schools offering competitive pricing, scholarships for promising applicants, or access to support resources if needed.

● Clinical Training Arrangements

Supervised off-site clinical learning lets you gain expertise across diverse real healthcare environments and patient scenarios – a key hands-on complement to nursing classroom teachings. Look for schools partnering with major medical centers and clinics for clinical placements.

● Student Support Services

From accessible academic advisors that mentor you 1:1 to simulation labs, libraries, career guidance and nursing student communities, take advantage of robust offerings. Verify your school provides comprehensive resources empowering graduates to pass NCLEX exams and confidently begin West Virginia nursing practice.

Vet each prospective school across these indicators – and follow your instincts on culture fit. Finding the environment optimal for you to acquire both generalist registered nursing abilities along with niche skills in your population interests sets you up for lifelong contributions to community health nursing in West Virginia.

Getting Licensed as an RN in West Virginia

Once completing your West Virginia nursing program at either the undergraduate BSN level or graduate MSN/DNP tier, follow these essential steps to progress towards RN or advanced practice licensure allowing state employment.

● Graduate from Your Degree Program
‍
First things first, successfully finish all required nursing credits, clinical hours and final projects or capstones. Your school then deems you have satisfied education requirements and confers your degree credential. West Virginia is home to over 10 nursing schools that offer excellent, accredited programs in the field of nursing. Schools like West Virginia University, Marshall University, and Bluefield State College are considered some of the best nursing schools not only in the state but also in the region. They offer CCNE-accredited Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Master’s in Nursing programs that prepare graduates for diverse nursing careers. Students can also find quality registered nursing (RN) programs at community colleges and state schools across West Virginia that meet the state board of nursing requirements.

● Pass the NCLEX Licensure Examination ‍

Next comes sitting for and passing the comprehensive NCLEX national exam demonstrating your competency to safely and responsibly practice bedside care or advanced nursing. Scoring above passing standard means licensure eligibility.

● Acquire & Biennially Renew Your West Virginia Nursing License
‍
Upon receiving NCLEX success notification, submit formal application to the West Virginia Board to attain either RN or APRN licensure required for legally securing an in-state nursing job and dispensing medical care under governed practice standards unique to your license type. ‍
Remember to complete quick license renewals every two years to keep status active as you gain experience!

● Consider Specialty Certifications to Unlock New Opportunities ‍
Optional but smart way to expand skillsets for coveted nursing roles like ICU, oncology, palliative or OR circulation prestige posts. Can concurrently strengthen pay.

Job Outlook and Salaries for Nurses in West Virginia

The demand forecast for high-quality nurses in West Virginia looks incredibly promising this decade according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics with over 2,100+ RN and 200+ advanced practice nursing openings projected every year statewide driven by:

● Population Health Trends ‍
West Virginia’s aging communities require expanded care services across acute and ambulatory centers.

● Nurse Retirements
Many current nurses are approaching retirement, leaving care gaps needing filled by newly licensed RNs and APRNs.

● Evolving Healthcare Models
Systems now emphasize preventative and transitional programs delivered through team models involving more nurses in coordinated roles.

These top nursing programs in West Virginia produce competent graduates ready to obtain their RN licenses in the state and address the growing nursing shortage. Whether you want to get your Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), BSN, or Master’s, there are different nursing concepts covered and nursing management skills developed. With an excellent career outlook for nurses in West Virginia, the state offers the right nursing program options to start your nursing education and offers in this rewarding field.

Are you ready to positively impact the Mountain State through a rewarding lifelong nursing career? The door is open for caring, driven talents willing to work hard and make a difference!

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Nursing Schools in West Virginia

What are some of the top nursing schools in West Virginia?

Some of the top nursing schools in West Virginia include West Virginia University, Marshall University, Bluefield State College, Fairmont State University, and Shepherd University. These schools offer highly regarded Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs and have excellent NCLEX-RN exam pass rates. Several also offer RN-to-BSN and Master’s in Nursing programs.

Where can I find LPN programs in West Virginia?

Many colleges offer accredited LPN programs including Bridgemont Community and Technical College, Eastern West Virginia Community and Technical College, Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College and West Virginia Northern Community College. Full-time LPN programs take around 12 months to complete.

What’s the job outlook for new nursing graduates of West Virginia colleges?

The future looks very bright for the state’s newest nursing graduates! West Virginia projects over 2,100 Registered Nursing job openings annually over the next decade – twice the national average – due to rising patient demand and retiring nurses. Secure your top nursing program spot now to gain rewarding skills!

What are the main nursing programs offered in West Virginia?

West Virginia nursing schools offer a range of programs, from basic Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) credentials up to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degrees. Common options are:

• Diploma Programs – Usually 2-3 year RN training programs based at hospitals
• Associate Degrees in Nursing (ADN) – 2-year programs at community/technical colleges
• Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN) – 4-year program at universities
• Accelerated BSN Programs – Fast-track 15 month option for those with a prior bachelor’s
• Master’s in Nursing – Advanced practice specialties like Nurse Practitioner (MSN)
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) – Highest practice-focused nursing credential

When researching schools, ensure your program of choice has approval by the West Virginia Board of Examiners for Registered Professional Nurses.

Where in West Virginia offers strong nursing program options?

Highly-ranked nursing colleges statewide include West Virginia University, Marshall University, West Liberty University, Fairmont State, and BridgeValley Community and Technical College. These schools offer CCNE/ACEN-accredited programming ranging from Nursing Assistant Certificates to Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctoral nursing degrees.

More of the Best Nursing Schools in West Virginia

Ranking Methodology and Data Sources

• Ranking Methodology
• University Webpages
• West Virginia 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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