Best Nursing Schools in Ohio

Mercy College of Ohio's BSN Nursing Prelicensure program stands out for its comprehensive approach to nursing education, preparing students for the NCLEX-RN exam with an impressive pass rate. Located in Toledo, this eight-semester program offers spring, fall, and summer starts, providing flexibility for students. It combines rigorous academic coursework with hands-on clinical experience, including paid clinical hours in the final semester. High school students have the unique opportunity for direct admission, and the program emphasizes a debt-free education through partnerships with Mercy Health. While ACT or SAT scores are required for admission, the program's focus on practical training and financial support makes it a top choice for aspiring nurses in Ohio.

• Eight-semester program
• Hands-on training
• Spring, fall, summer starts
• Paid clinical final semester
• Direct admit for high schoolers
• Debt-free education opportunity
• Prepares for RN licensure
• Located in Toledo, OH
• Comprehensive bachelor's education
• Flexible admission times

Case Western Reserve University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program stands out for its direct admission process, eliminating the need for a second application or pre-nursing requirements, thus streamlining the path for aspiring nurses. With nursing courses and clinical placements commencing in the first semester, students benefit from an immersive learning environment that includes over 1000 clinical hours. The program is distinguished by its focus on interprofessional teamwork, access to a state-of-the-art skill lab, and a simulation center, alongside research opportunities in healthcare. While the NCLEX-RN pass rate is not specified, the program's comprehensive curriculum and hands-on approach are designed to prepare students for success on the exam and in their nursing careers. Admission does not require an ACT or SAT, making it accessible to a broad range of students.

• Direct Admission to program
• No second application needed
• No pre-nursing requirements
• Nursing courses start first semester
• Clinical placements begin first semester
• 1000+ clinical hours
• Interprofessional teamwork opportunities
• State-of-art skill lab
• Simulation center available
• Research opportunities in healthcare

Muskingum University's Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program is tailored for individuals holding a non-nursing bachelor's degree, offering a fast-track to a nursing career. This campus-based program requires 22 semester hours of prerequisite coursework and emphasizes practical, hands-on learning alongside clinical experience. A unique aspect is the $50 enrollment deposit to secure a spot, making it an attractive option for career changers. While the program does not specify an NCLEX-RN pass rate, its focus on comprehensive nursing education and clinical preparedness suggests a strong foundation for exam success. Admission does not explicitly require an ACT or SAT, but prospective students are encouraged to consult with an ABSN advisor for detailed application requirements.

• Campus-based program
• Requires non-nursing bachelor's degree
• 22 semester hours prerequisites
• $50 enrollment deposit
• Fast-paced nursing education
• Hands-on learning focus
• Clinical experience included
• Ideal for career changers
• Contact advisor for guidance
• Transcript evaluation available

Ohio University-Main Campus offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that stands out for its high NCLEX-RN first-time pass rate of 98.49%, indicative of the program's quality and effectiveness. This four-year, campus-based program provides students with a robust curriculum that includes over 1,500 hours of clinical experience, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the nursing profession. The program emphasizes experiential learning through state-of-the-art simulation labs and community engagement, supported by a favorable faculty-to-student ratio of 1:18. While the program does not specify a concentration, it offers flexible learning options across multiple campuses. Entrance exams like ACT or SAT are required for admission, aligning with bachelor's level program standards.

• 98.49% NCLEX-RN pass rate
• Over 1,500 clinical hours
• Multiple campus learning options
• State-of-the-art simulation labs
• Accredited nursing program
• Experiential learning focus
• Faculty-to-student ratio 1:18
• Comprehensive clinical experiences
• Community engagement opportunities

Ohio University-Zanesville Campus's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program stands out for its comprehensive approach to nursing education, blending theoretical knowledge with practical skills through classroom instruction, laboratory work, and clinical experiences. Aimed at fostering future nurses capable of delivering evidence-based care across individual, family, and population levels, the program ensures graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam. Notable for its 16:1 student to faculty ratio, the program offers personalized learning experiences. Financial aid is accessible, with 99% of first-year students benefiting. Admission prerequisites include a high school GPA of 3.0 or above and completion of specific courses, with no mention of ACT or SAT requirements. The program's accreditation by CCNE and use of high-fidelity simulators in dedicated nursing labs underscore its commitment to quality education.

• 16:1 student to faculty ratio
• 99% financial aid for first-years
• Combines classroom, lab, clinical
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
• 3.0 GPA requirement
• Dedicated nursing labs
• High-fidelity simulators
• Competitive admission
• Accredited by CCNE
• Fixed tuition rate

Mount St. Joseph University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that stands out for its direct admission pathway and a perfect 2024 NCLEX pass rate of 100%. Rooted in nearly a century of nursing education, this campus-based program emphasizes patient-centered, evidence-based care through hands-on clinical rotations, simulation training, and a high-tech skills lab. Students are prepared for diverse nursing specialties such as critical care and pediatrics, with a curriculum that fosters critical thinking and culturally sensitive care. The program does not require an ACT or SAT for admission, making it accessible to a broad range of aspiring nurses. Graduates are well-equipped for the rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, with strong job prospects in various nursing fields.

• Direct admission nursing program
• 100% 2024 NCLEX Pass Rate
• Nearly 100 years of experience
• Hands-on clinical learning
• Multiple nursing career paths
• High-tech skills lab
• Interdisciplinary team preparation
• Culturally sensitive care focus
• Evidence-based practice training
• Multiple complementary minor options

Baldwin Wallace University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that emphasizes clinical, leadership, and critical thinking skills, preparing students for a successful nursing career. With clinical rotations beginning in the second year, students gain hands-on experience at premier healthcare facilities in Northeast Ohio. The curriculum is tailored for NCLEX-RN success, reflected in the program's near-perfect pass rates. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, it features small class sizes and expert faculty for personalized guidance. This program does not require an ACT or SAT for admission, focusing instead on fostering a deep understanding of nursing principles for diverse career paths.

• Four-year BSN program.
• Clinical rotations start sophomore year.
• NCLEX-RN exam preparation.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• Small class sizes.
• Experienced nursing faculty.
• Hands-on clinical experience.
• Near-perfect NCLEX-RN pass rates.
• Diverse nursing career opportunities.
• Leadership and critical thinking focus.

The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) at Baldwin Wallace University is a 15-month, full-time program designed for those with a prior bachelor's degree, offering a fast track into nursing. It combines rigorous academic coursework with extensive clinical rotations, aimed at NCLEX-RN preparation, boasting a 94% first-time pass rate. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, the program employs a concept-based learning approach to develop essential clinical and critical thinking skills. Prerequisites include seven courses with a minimum 3.0 GPA, and the total cost is $42,644, covering all essentials. No entrance exam is required, making it accessible for career changers.

• 15-month program duration.
• Full-time, in-person format.
• 94% NCLEX-RN first-time pass rate.
• Concept-based learning approach.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• Requires seven prerequisites.
• 3.0 prerequisite GPA minimum.
• $42,644 comprehensive cost.
• Includes textbooks and supplies.
• Clinical rotations in top hospitals.

Miami University-Hamilton offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that uniquely combines liberal arts education with comprehensive nursing training, emphasizing health promotion, disease prevention, and patient care in various settings. The program is designed to equip students with leadership skills and hands-on clinical experience, starting from the sophomore year. Notably, admission for fall 2021 does not require ACT or SAT scores, though a high school GPA of 3.3 is necessary. The curriculum prepares graduates for a wide range of nursing roles and further academic pursuits. Additional costs include lab fees, uniforms, and licensing exams, with financial aid options to support students. The program's structure ensures students are ready to meet the diverse health needs of populations, fostering interprofessional collaboration and professional nursing practice.

• Blends liberal arts and nursing.
• Focus on health promotion.
• Clinical experience starts sophomore year.
• Prepares for leadership roles.
• Required for master’s programs.
• 3.3 GPA for high school admission.
• No ACT/SAT for fall 2021.
• Includes lab and uniform fees.
• Financial aid available.
• Diverse clinical settings.

The University of Mount Union offers an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program, tailored for those with a prior bachelor's degree seeking a swift transition into nursing. This 15-month intensive program emphasizes evidence-based practice and hands-on clinical training in advanced facilities, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam. Accredited by the CCNE, it stands out for its affordability in Northeast Ohio, requiring 64 credit hours for completion. The program boasts small class sizes for personalized learning and requires a minimum GPA of 2.75 in prerequisite courses for admission. Notably, it does not mandate an ACT or SAT for entry, focusing instead on prior academic achievement and readiness for rigorous nursing education.

• 15-month program duration
• 64 credit hours
• State-of-the-art facilities
• Hands-on clinical experience
• Small class sizes
• Personalized instruction
• Accredited by CCNE
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN
• Affordable tuition
• Previous bachelor's required

Mount Carmel College of Nursing, located in Columbus, OH, provides a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program tailored for individuals new to nursing. This program is distinguished by its intimate class sizes and personalized instruction, coupled with a strong partnership with Mount Carmel Health System, enhancing hands-on learning opportunities. It holds accreditation from the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, ensuring a high-quality education that readies students for the NCLEX-RN and beyond. The Direct Admit Pathway is a notable feature for eligible students, securing their spot early. Emphasizing evidence-based practice and clinical skills, the program boasts a commendable NCLEX pass rate, reflecting its effectiveness in preparing competent nursing professionals. Entrance exams like ACT or SAT are required for admission.

• Small classes, personal attention.
• Affiliation with Mount Carmel Health System.
• Accredited by recognized bodies.
• Direct Admit Pathway available.
• Focus on evidence-based practice.
• Prepares for professional nursing career.
• Rich educational experience.
• Clinical competence focus.

Wright State University-Main Campus offers a Baccalaureate Degree Program in Nursing (B.S.N.) designed to equip students with the skills needed for a successful nursing career. This program stands out for its accelerated three-year format, including summer sessions, enabling students to complete their degree in eight or nine semesters. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing, it emphasizes clinical practice and interprofessional collaboration. Admission requirements may include ACT or SAT scores; prospective students are encouraged to verify specifics on the university's website. The program's focus on practical skills and collaboration prepares graduates for high NCLEX-RN pass rates, reflecting its commitment to excellence in nursing education.

• Three-year undergraduate program.
• Summer classes available.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• Approved by Ohio Board.
• Focus on clinical practice.
• Interprofessional collaboration emphasis.
• Multiple master's degree options.
• Continuing education opportunities.
• Disaster management course.
• Innovative discovery model course.

Kent State University at Tuscarawas offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) program designed to equip students with the necessary skills for a successful nursing career. The program emphasizes hands-on clinical experiences across diverse healthcare settings, guided by experienced faculty. With a notable 92% NCLEX pass rate and a 99% job placement rate within six months post-graduation, the program stands out for its effectiveness. Admission is competitive, requiring a minimum 2.750 GPA and completion of prerequisite courses. The curriculum focuses on evidence-based practice, compassionate care, and leadership preparation, making it an excellent choice for aspiring nurses aiming for graduate study or leadership roles in healthcare.

• 92% NCLEX pass rate
• 99% job placement
• Hands-on clinical experiences
• Evidence-based practice focus
• Competitive admission
• Minimum 2.750 GPA required
• Prepares for graduate study
• Leadership in healthcare
• Compassionate nursing practices
• Diverse clinical settings

Owens Community College provides an Associate Degree Nursing program that stands out for its comprehensive, hands-on approach to nursing education. Located in Ohio, this program spans four semesters, blending classroom instruction with interactive lab sessions and clinical rotations across Northwest Ohio to equip students with real-world nursing skills. Accreditation by ACEN and approval from the Ohio Board of Nursing underscore the program's quality, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam. Prospective students must apply separately to the college and the nursing program. While entrance exams like the ACT or SAT are not mentioned as requirements, the program's focus on practical experience and its high NCLEX pass rates make it a compelling choice for aspiring nurses.

• Four-semester program
• Campus-based learning
• ACEN accredited
• Ohio Board of Nursing approved
• Clinical rotations included
• Interactive lab experiences
• Prepares for RN licensure
• Financial aid available

Mount Vernon Nazarene University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program that stands out for its Christ-centered approach and comprehensive clinical training. With over 620 clinical hours, students gain hands-on experience in diverse healthcare settings, preparing them for the NCLEX-RN exam and a successful nursing career. The program, housed in the Hunter Hall facility, boasts a state-of-the-art nursing skills lab and is known for its high employment demand. Scholarships like those from AACN and Choose Ohio First make this education accessible. While the program does not specify an entrance exam requirement, its focus on producing highly skilled nurses is evident through its rigorous curriculum and practical training.

• Over 620 clinical hours
• NCLEX-RN exam preparation
• Christ-centered learning approach
• Multiple nursing scholarship opportunities
• State-of-the-art nursing skills lab
• High employment demand
• Located in Hunter Hall facility

Xavier University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that stands out for its holistic approach and strong foundation in Jesuit values. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the program excels in preparing students for the NCLEX-RN exam, with a curriculum that includes pathophysiology, pharmacology, and mental health nursing. Students benefit from direct admission, state-of-the-art simulation labs, and hands-on clinical practicums across over 30 healthcare facilities in Greater Cincinnati. Notably, 98% of graduates secure employment or enter graduate school within six months. While the program does not specify a concentration, its comprehensive approach and high NCLEX pass rates make it a top choice for aspiring nurses. Entrance exams like ACT or SAT are required for admission.

• Direct Admission program.
• Holistic nursing approach.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• 98% employment/grad school rate.
• State-of-the-art simulation labs.
• Over 30 clinical site agreements.
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
• Jesuit values foundation.
• Hands-on clinical practicums.
• Comprehensive nursing curriculum.

Kent State University at East Liverpool's LPN to ADN program is a standout choice for licensed practical nurses seeking to elevate their careers to registered nursing. This Associate of Applied Science in Nursing program, with a concentration in LPN to ADN, is meticulously designed to bridge the gap between LPN and RN roles, emphasizing practical skills and theoretical knowledge. The program boasts a strong NCLEX-RN pass rate, reflecting its comprehensive curriculum that covers safe nursing practices, effective communication, leadership, and the integration of technology in healthcare. Accredited by ACEN, it offers a robust foundation for nurses aiming to excel in diverse healthcare environments without the need for an entrance exam, making it an accessible option for advancing one's nursing career.

• LPN to ADN concentration
• Campus-based program
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
• Accredited by ACEN
• Focus on 21st-century healthcare
• Emphasizes safe nursing care
• Develops communication skills
• Leadership in nursing
• Technology in patient care
• Pathway for career advancement

Wittenberg University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring a high-quality education that prepares students for generalist nursing practice and provides a solid foundation for graduate studies. The program, which requires ACT or SAT scores for admission, is designed to align with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing Essentials, emphasizing intellectual inquiry, diversity, and integrity. With a focus on integrating liberal arts, the BSN program at Wittenberg fosters responsible global citizenship and leadership across personal, professional, and civic spheres. Graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of nursing, a profession consistently ranked as America's most trusted. The program's commitment to excellence is reflected in its NCLEX-RN pass rates, showcasing the effectiveness of its curriculum in preparing students for licensure and beyond.

• Accredited by CCNE.
• Prepares for generalist nursing.
• Foundation for graduate education.
• Integrates liberal arts education.
• Focus on diversity and integrity.
• Aligned with AACN Essentials.
• Campus-based program.
• Fosters global citizenship.
• Leadership development focus.
• Nursing most trusted profession.

Lourdes University offers a Traditional BSN program designed to equip students with the necessary skills for a successful nursing career. This four-year, 125-credit program combines rigorous academic coursework with practical clinical experiences in advanced simulation labs and over 35 clinical placement sites. Emphasizing evidence-based practice and patient-centered care, the program fosters critical thinking and clinical proficiency. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA and completion of science prerequisites, with no mention of ACT or SAT requirements. The program boasts a six-to-one clinical ratio, ensuring personalized attention. Rooted in Franciscan values, it prepares graduates to excel in diverse healthcare settings. NCLEX-RN pass rates are competitive, reflecting the program's strong emphasis on comprehensive nursing education.

• Four-year BSN program
• 125 total credit hours
• Six-to-one clinical ratio
• Simulation and skills labs
• 35+ clinical placement sites
• Personalized faculty advising
• Direct high school admission
• Transfer-friendly program
• Franciscan ethics foundation

Bowling Green State University-Main Campus offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) with a specialized concentration in Maternal Nursing, designed to equip students with the skills needed for high-quality maternal and newborn care. The program stands out for its rigorous curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with extensive hands-on training in advanced simulation labs and diverse clinical settings across Ohio. Admission prerequisites include a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, completion of specific prerequisite courses, and achieving a score of at least 75 in select categories on the HESI Admission Assessment Exam. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the program not only prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam but also emphasizes evidence-based practice, leadership, and clinical judgment in maternal nursing.

• Concentration in Maternal Nursing.
• Hands-on simulation lab experiences.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• Requires HESI Admission Assessment Exam.
• Cumulative GPA ≥3.0 for admission.
• State-of-the-art nursing skills lab.
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
• Focus on evidence-based practice.
• Leadership and clinical judgment skills.
• Diverse clinical experience opportunities.

At Bowling Green State University-Main Campus, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program with a concentration in Mental Health Nursing prepares future nurses to address the complexities of mental health care. The curriculum integrates innovative teaching strategies with practical experiences in state-of-the-art simulation labs, fostering clinical judgment and patient-centered care skills. Prospective students must meet admission criteria including a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, completion of prerequisite courses, and a minimum score of 75 in select categories on the HESI Admission Assessment Exam. As the largest nursing program in Northwest Ohio, it offers robust healthcare partnerships for clinical experiences, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam and diverse career opportunities in mental health nursing.

• Largest nursing program in Northwest Ohio.
• State-of-the-art simulation center.
• Hands-on clinical experiences.
• Concentration in Mental Health Nursing.
• Requires cumulative GPA ≥3.0.
• HESI Admission Assessment Exam required.
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN licensure.
• Career opportunities in diverse settings.
• Innovative teaching strategies.
• Focus on clinical judgment skills.

Cleveland State University's Traditional BSN program stands out for its rigorous curriculum designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam and a successful nursing career. With a focus on both theoretical knowledge and hands-on clinical practice, the program ensures graduates are well-equipped for the demands of the healthcare industry. Admission is competitive, requiring a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50, prerequisite courses with grades of B or better, and consideration of healthcare experience. The program offers flexibility with full-time, three-year options available in daytime or evening/weekend formats. Located in the heart of Cleveland, OH, it provides students with diverse clinical experiences in a dynamic urban setting. The program's commitment to excellence is reflected in its competitive NCLEX-RN pass rates, preparing students not just for licensure but for leadership roles in nursing.

• Full-time three-year program.
• Daytime and evening/weekend options.
• Competitive admission process.
• Prerequisite courses required.
• Located in Cleveland, OH.
• Prepares for professional nursing roles.
• Blend of theory and clinical practice.
• Admission deadlines in January and March.
• Requires B or better in key sciences.
• Cumulative GPA of at least 2.50.