9 Best BSN Programs in Maryland in 2025

Becoming a registered nurse (RN) in Maryland involves exploring several educational pathways. Among them, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is considered one of the best launching points.

Considering this, we've provided everything you need to know to apply for a BSN in Maryland, along with salary expectations after graduation and recommendations for the best programs in the state.

Best BSN Programs in Maryland

The following schools have been selected based on allnurses' methodology of surveying our readers to understand what they value most while selecting schools with the addition of NCLEX pass rates, graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, and admission rate of hundreds of the most prominent nursing schools in the United States.

1. Towson University 

Located in Towson, Townson University offers an affordable BSN program with an estimated annual cost of $12,621. Accredited by ACEN, this program maintains a strong NCLEX pass rate of 88%, ensuring students receive a comprehensive nursing education.

2. Coppin State University 

Coppin State University in Baltimore provides an accessible BSN program with an estimated annual cost of $6,010. With ACEN accreditation and an NCLEX pass rate of 78%, this program offers a cost-effective pathway for aspiring nurses to build a solid foundation in their nursing journey.

3. Salisbury University

Salisbury University, situated in Salisbury, offers a comprehensive BSN program with an estimated annual cost of $18,706. Accredited by ACEN and featuring an outstanding NCLEX pass rate of 94%, this program prepares students for success in the nursing field.

4. Stevenson University 

At Stevenson University in Owings Mills, students can pursue the BSN program with an estimated annual cost of $23,428. The program holds ACEN accreditation and maintains an NCLEX pass rate of 83%, providing a quality nursing education.

5. Washington Adventist University 

At an annual cost of $13,625, Washington Adventist University in Takoma Park provides an economical option for pursuing their BSN program. The program holds ACEN accreditation and boasts an NCLEX pass rate of 69%, equipping students with the skills needed for a rewarding career in nursing.

_{*Costs as reported by Department of Education unless otherwise noted. Actual costs will vary based on scholarship, coursework, and other factors.}

What Is a Bachelor of Science in Nursing?

A BSN is a step up from an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). BSNs typically include more extensive study and coursework and offer a broader range of clinical experiences. Earning a BSN can provide nurses with more career opportunities beyond basic clinical care, including roles in:

• Administration
• Research
• Teaching
• Consulting

Many healthcare institutions today prefer BSN-prepared nurses to fulfill various accreditation and Joint Commission requirements.

Where Do BSN-Prepared Nurses Work?

Nurses with a BSN have many career options and opportunities and can practice in most care settings, including:

• Hospitals
• Nursing Homes
• Home Care Agencies
• Physician Office
• Educational Services
• Government Agencies
• Schools
• Community Centers
• Hospices
• Dialysis Centers
• Telephonic and Virtual Care Settings

BSN Program Pathways in Maryland

BSN programs aim to achieve the same objectives but come in various pathways:

1. Traditional BSN: A standard four-year bachelor's degree program.
2. Accelerated BSN: Condenses the same educational content into a shorter period, typically 12-24 months.
3. RN to BSN: Bridge programs designed for those with an associate degree in nursing, allowing them to advance their education without completing a full traditional BSN program.
4. LPN to BSN: A pathway for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to advance their careers by earning a BSN degree, bridging their practical nursing education with a comprehensive BSN curriculum, and expanding their scope of practice and career opportunities.
5. BSN RN Programs for Non-Nursing Graduates: Tailored for individuals holding a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field, offering a streamlined curriculum that focuses on essential nursing courses for a swift transition into the nursing profession.

Can BSN Programs Be Taken Entirely Online?

Acquiring nursing skills requires hands-on learning and real-life practice, which can't be fully replicated in an entirely online environment for an initial nursing degree. Because of this, Pre-licensure BSN programs aren't entirely online, as in-person skills training and direct patent care experiences in healthcare facilities are needed. However, many BSN programs offer online coursework options, providing a hybrid environment for working students or those requiring more flexible schedules.

BSN Program Admission Requirements in Maryland

When contemplating a BSN program, it's crucial to grasp the prerequisites and requirements that form the basis for a successful nursing education. Generally, most BSN programs favor applicants with a high school GPA of 2.75 or higher, or an equivalent academic performance from an associate degree program, with even more stringent GPA expectations for healthcare-related coursework. The most common BSN program admission requirements include:

• Evidence of Previous Education: Verification of a high school diploma or GED.
• Prerequisite Courses: Specific coursework requirements vary by program, so consult your chosen program for precise prerequisites.
• Pre-Entrance Examination: Tests such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI (Health Education Systems, Inc.).
• CPR Certification: Often not mandatory for admission but always required before commencing clinical courses.
• Criminal Background Check: Ensures patient safety and complies with healthcare regulations.
• Drug Screening: Ensures a drug-free environment and adherence to healthcare standards.
• Health Assessment: Validates that students meet the physical requirements essential for performing nursing duties.
• Immunization Requirements: Ensures the safety of students and patients by preventing the spread of infectious diseases.
• Additional Criteria: Some programs may also require volunteer work, submission of resumes, and provision of references to support the application.

The requirements vary depending on your starting point and chosen pathway. For instance, RN to BSN programs typically necessitate an associate degree in nursing, an RN license, and occasionally bedside experience as a registered nurse. It's essential to verify the specific requirements of the schools you intend to apply to.

Common BSN Admission Prerequisite Courses

Prerequisite course requirements can vary across programs, but generally, most BSN programs mandate a standard set of courses to be finished before enrollment. If these prerequisites are not needed at entry, equivalent courses are typically incorporated into the program. The following list is not exhaustive but comprises some of the most common prerequisites:

• Biology (including lab and lecture)
• Chemistry (including lab and lecture)
• Human Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology (including lab and lecture)
• Nutrition
• Pathophysiology
• Sociology
• Math (some require statistics, others only algebra or higher)
• General Psychology

These fundamental courses are designed to give students a strong foundation in crucial scientific and social sciences. By fulfilling these prerequisites, students are better prepared to meet the rigorous requirements of a BSN program and excel in the nursing profession.

BSN Program Curriculum in Maryland

BSN programs emphasize essential nursing courses, ensuring students are well-equipped to tackle the diverse challenges in the nursing profession. A typical BSN curriculum includes:

• Health Assessment: Techniques and methodologies for evaluating patient health.
• Pharmacology and Nursing Math: Mastery of medication administration and pharmacological principles.
• Nursing Essentials: Introduction to fundamental nursing practices and principles.
• Adult Health Nursing: Comprehensive care for adult patients with various health conditions.
• Pediatric Nursing: Specialized care for infants, children, and adolescents.
• Maternal and Neonatal Nursing: Focused care for mothers and newborns.
• Mental Health Nursing: Providing support and care for patients with psychiatric and mental health conditions.
• Community and Public Health Nursing: Nursing practice in community settings and public health.
• Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice: Introduction to research methods and applying evidence-based practice in nursing.
• Leadership and Management in Nursing: Developing leadership skills and understanding management principles in healthcare settings.
• Nursing Ethics and Legal Aspects: Understanding the ethical and legal aspects of nursing practice.

These foundational courses provide a comprehensive education, equipping BSN graduates with the critical knowledge and skills needed to excel in their nursing careers.

Clinical Training in BSN Programs

Clinical training in BSN programs delivers required and necessary hands-on experience necessary for developing comprehensive nursing skills. This training includes:

• Foundational Nursing Practices: Hands-on exposure to fundamental patient care techniques and basic nursing principles.
• Specialized Nursing Clinical Rotations: Exposure to diverse specialized nursing areas, such as Acute Care, Pediatric Care, Geriatric Care, Women's Health, and in-patient Psychiatric Units.
• Leadership and Management Clinical Experiences: Opportunities to shadow nurse leaders, engage in healthcare project management, and gain insights into healthcare administration.
• Community Health Clinical Placements: Hands-on experience in public health settings, focusing on community health promotion and preventive care initiatives.
• Simulation Labs: Practice navigating complex and critical scenarios within a controlled environment to hone clinical decision-making skills and refine hands-on competencies.

These clinical experiences, along with simulation lab sessions, prepare students with the competence and expertise needed to succeed in various nursing roles.

BSN Program Costs in Maryland

Understanding the financial commitment for a BSN program involves multiple considerations. Here's a streamlined guide:

BSN Program Tuition Fee Insights:

• Resident vs. Out-of-State Tuition: Public universities often charge lower rates for in-state residents.
• Online Programs: Generally more cost-effective but still require clinical hours.
• Cost Per Credit Hour: BSN courses may vary in cost.

BSN Program Additional Cost Considerations:

• Books and Supplies: Textbook and supply costs can add up quickly.
• Technology Fees: Common in online or hybrid programs for digital resources.
• Lab & Clinical Fees: Charged for courses requiring specific materials or equipment.
• Miscellaneous Fees: Include application, graduation, and administrative costs.
• Living Expenses: Relevant for students who relocate or reduce work hours.
• RN Licensing Fees: Necessary for nursing practice credentials.
• Opportunity Costs: Potential financial impact of reduced work hours.
• Long-term ROI: Consider networking opportunities, educational quality, and job placement.
• Personal Circumstances: Factors like childcare or maintaining employment may affect program choice.

BSN Program Financial Planning

Most students manage these costs through a combination of financial aid options, including grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study programs. Planning for these expenses early on can make the financial journey through a BSN program more manageable, allowing students to focus on their education and the rewarding career that awaits them. For more details, review the Best Ways to Pay for Nursing School and the Cheapest BSN Programs available in 2025.

BSN Salary Expectations in Maryland

If you're considering nursing school in Maryland, it's important to understand that salaries in this field are influenced by several key factors. Your specialty, experience level, and the employer you choose can all impact your potential earnings. While some employers offer higher salaries to nurses with BSN degrees, many also provide substantial tuition reimbursement programs to support further education. Additionally, your salary can vary widely depending on where you live within the state, the type of healthcare facility where you work, and your level of experience. Keep these considerations in mind as you plan your educational and career journey in nursing.

To assist in your decision-making, we have detailed the variations in RN salaries across the state and highlighted the differences between salaries for RNs with an ADN versus those with a BSN. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), RNs in 2023 earned the following:

Maryland RN Wage

• Mean Hourly Wage: $44.27
• Mean Annual Wage: $92,090.00

Maryland employed 49,770 registered nurses in 2023, placing the state within the top 50th percentile for nurse employment nationwide.

National RN Wage

• Mean Hourly Wage: $45.42
• Mean Annual Wage: $94,480.00

Top Paying States for RNs

• California: $137,690.00
• Hawaii: $119,710.00
• Massachusetts: $113,440.00
• Oregon: $111,030.00
• Alaska: $109,210.00

Typically, there is a noticeable income gap between ADN-prepared and BSN-prepared RNs, with BSN RNs generally earning higher salaries. However, the BLS does not differentiate between these educational levels in its salary reports. Using data from ZipRecruiter, we can identify the salary differences between ADN RNs and BSN RNs in Maryland.

Average ADN RN Salary in Maryland:

• Hourly Wage: $34.00
• Annual Wage: $70,739.00

Average BSN RN Salary in Maryland:

• Hourly Wage: $38.00
• Annual Wage: $79,105.00

Maryland cities with the highest BSN RN salary are: 

• Potomac Heights: $99,317.00
• Germantown: $95,510.00
• Hagerstown: $94,581.00
• Glen Burnie: $93,101.00
• Silver Spring: $91,592.00

By understanding these factors and differences in nursing salaries, you can make informed decisions about your nursing education and career to maximize your earning potential.

Should I Pursue My BSN in Maryland?

While an ADN/ASN provides a solid foundation, a BSN opens doors to more specialized career paths. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), 28% of employers now require a BSN, and 72% prefer to hire nurses with BSN degrees. This underscores the importance of a BSN for those seeking to meet the growing demand for highly skilled nurses and enhance their career opportunities.

Choosing the right path for your nursing education can significantly impact your career trajectory. Understanding the benefits of pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in Maryland is essential. Here's a look at the advantages to help you make an informed decision:

Pros of Pursuing a BSN in Maryland

• Prestigious Healthcare Institutions: Maryland is home to some of the nation's top hospitals, such as Johns Hopkins Hospital and the University of Maryland Medical Center, offering excellent job opportunities and access to advanced medical technology and research for BSN graduates.
• Diverse and Scenic Environments: Maryland offers a variety of environments from bustling cities like Baltimore to peaceful coastal areas along the Chesapeake Bay, providing a rich and diverse living experience for students.
• High Educational Standards: BSN programs in Maryland are known for their rigorous curricula that cover both clinical skills and theoretical knowledge, ensuring a well-rounded nursing education.
• Career Advancement Opportunities: Many healthcare institutions in Maryland prefer or require BSN-educated nurses, providing opportunities to specialize in fields such as pediatrics, oncology, leadership, and research.
• Higher Salary Potential: BSN-trained nurses in Maryland often qualify for higher-paying positions and have more leverage in salary negotiations compared to those with an ADN.
• Improved Patient Outcomes: Research indicates that BSN-prepared nurses are associated with better patient outcomes due to their training in critical thinking, leadership, and management.
• Professional Recognition: Leading nursing organizations endorse the BSN as the standard for nursing education, ensuring compliance with industry benchmarks.
• Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) State: Maryland's NLC status allows you to practice in other participating states with a Maryland license, enhancing employment flexibility and opportunities.

Cons of Pursuing a BSN in Maryland

• High Cost of Living: Maryland, particularly areas like Baltimore and the DC metropolitan area, is known for a higher cost of living, impacting overall expenses including housing and transportation.
• Traffic Congestion: Major cities in Maryland experience significant traffic congestion, which can affect commute times to healthcare facilities.
• Extreme Weather: Maryland winters can be cold and snowy, which may be challenging for some individuals.
• Higher Education Costs: Pursuing a BSN requires a significant financial investment of both time and money, including potential student loans and a longer period without full-time income.
• Demanding Curriculum: BSN programs cover a broad and challenging curriculum, including clinical skills, research, leadership, and public health, which can be academically demanding.
• Competitive Job Market: In areas with a high concentration of BSN graduates, job competition can be intense, similar to the challenges faced by those with an ADN.
• Longer Time to Graduate: Completing a BSN takes longer than an ADN, potentially delaying your entry into the workforce, which could be a significant consideration for those eager to start their careers quickly.

By evaluating these factors in relation to your career goals and personal circumstances, you can make a well-informed decision about pursuing a BSN in Maryland.

Choosing a Nursing School in Maryland

Nursing students' reasons for choosing a nursing school will vary based on their specific needs. Some value the cost of education, while others may place greater emphasis on NCLEX pass rates, academic reputation, or other factors. Although it will vary by individual, a survey by allnurses revealed the top 11 reasons nursing students chose their programs:

1. Cost
2. High NCLEX Pass Rate
3. Location
4. Academic Reputation
5. Availability of Financial Aid and Scholarships
6. Length of Time to Obtain Degree
7. Flexibility of Schedule
8. Curriculum
9. Campus and Surroundings
10. Nursing Clinicals Location
11. Availability of Online Courses

Ultimately, prospective students should assess their needs and pick schools that best fit them.

Importance of BSN Program Accreditation in Maryland

Beyond the factors already discussed, the accreditation of your nursing program is a crucial consideration. Choosing an accredited nursing school is essential for a BSN due to several compelling reasons:

• Assured Educational Quality: Accreditation verifies that the program meets rigorous standards of nursing education, providing a high-quality learning experience crucial for developing essential nursing skills and knowledge.
• Eligibility for RN Licensure: Most regulatory bodies require graduation from an accredited program for RN licensure. While state board-approved programs without accreditation might allow practice within the state, they could limit relocation and practice opportunities in other states.
• Enhanced Career Opportunities: Employers often prefer graduates from accredited programs as it ensures comprehensive education and training.
• Pathways to Advanced Education: ADN or BSN degrees acquired from accredited institutions typically serve as prerequisites for admission into advanced nursing programs, such as Master's or Doctorate levels.
• Access to Financial Aid: Enrollment in an accredited program is often a requirement for federal financial aid, as well as numerous scholarships and grants, which are essential for managing educational expenses.
• Boosted Professional Credibility: Graduating from an accredited program enhances professional credibility, indicating to employers, colleagues, and patients that you have a solid educational foundation.
• Increased Public Trust: Accreditation standards ensure nursing programs prepare students in a way that promotes patient safety and well-being, crucial for maintaining public trust in the healthcare system.
• Thorough Preparation: Accredited programs undergo regular reviews to keep their curriculum current and comprehensive, equipping students to meet the demands of the healthcare field.
• Valuable Networking Opportunities: Accredited programs often have connections with a wide array of healthcare facilities, providing students with beneficial clinical placements and post-graduation employment prospects.

Recognized accrediting bodies for BSN programs include the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), or the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA). These programs adhere to stringent national standards, ensuring that nursing students receive comprehensive training and are well-prepared to enter the nursing workforce upon graduation, with the flexibility to practice across state borders.

FAQ and Additional Readings

Q: How do I transfer my nursing license to Maryland?

Maryland is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing nurses to practice in other NLC states without additional steps. You do not have to transfer your license if moving from an NLC state.

Q: Are there specialization programs for nurses in Maryland?

Many schools in Maryland offer advanced nursing degrees, allowing RNs to specialize in pediatric, geriatric, family nurse practitioner, acute care, and more.

Q: Is it better to have an ADN or a BSN?

While obtaining an RN license after completing an ADN is possible, the opportunities after graduation and beyond are more significant with a BSN degree. BSNs focus more on research, leadership skills, and evidence-based practice, whereas an ADN primarily focuses on clinical skills.

Additionally, many healthcare institutions now require BSN-prepared RNs to fulfill various accreditation and Joint Commission requirements and to achieve the prestige of Magnet status.

Edited Oct 19 by Erin Lee
3-4 sentences on top 5 programs