Best Nursing Schools in Ohio | 2025

Discover the best nursing schools in Ohio. Learn more about their prerequisites, requirements, costs, and salary expectations after graduation.

best nursing schools in ohio
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Article fact-checked by our Editorial Team.

Ohio's top nursing schools offer comprehensive training, from undergraduate programs like ADN and BSN to advanced graduate degrees such as a Master's or Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP), preparing students for roles like Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Anesthetist, and various other advanced nursing specialties. These programs equip nurses with hands-on experience to address Ohio's healthcare needs across urban and rural settings.

Explore our guide to the best nursing schools in Ohio, offering insights into educational pathways, reasons to pursue nursing in the state, tips for selecting the right nursing school to advance your career, and salary expectations upon graduation.

Best Nursing Schools in Ohio - Online & On-Campus

The selection of the following nursing schools relies on a comprehensive methodology that includes direct input from our readers, extensive data analysis, and continuous updates to ensure accuracy and relevance. Our team of Data Analysts dedicates over 100 hours weekly to refine our database, incorporating critical criteria like reader surveys, graduation rates, cost of attendance, mode of delivery, admission rates, and more elements valued by our community.

*Tuitions are subject to change based on a student's number of transfer credits, yearly increases, and more. Our rankings are based on the latest college data from the U.S. Department of Education complemented by additional insights from our analysts.

  1. #1 University of Cincinnati

    allnurses College Ranking: A
    0 reviews

    University of Cincinnati is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including MA, BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, Masters, RN to MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, BSN to PhD, MSN to PhD, CRNA, CNM, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACME, ACEN, and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    School Overview

    • Located in Ohio
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 86% Acceptance Rate
    • 68% Graduation Rate
    • 27,880 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 11,492 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 22 Average Age
    • 50% Men
    • 50% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 83% White
    • 2% Hispanic
    • 13% Black
    • 2% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  2. #2 Ohio University

    allnurses College Ranking: A
    0 reviews

    Ohio University is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    School Overview

    • Located in Ohio
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 50% Acceptance Rate
    • 66% Graduation Rate
    • 17,611 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 6,032 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 23 Average Age
    • 39% Men
    • 61% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 92% White
    • 1% Hispanic
    • 5% Black
    • 1% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  3. #3 Kent State University at Kent

    allnurses College Ranking: A
    0 reviews

    Kent State University at Kent is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNP, PhD, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • 800 E Summit St, Kent, Ohio 44240, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Ohio
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 88% Acceptance Rate
    • 63% Graduation Rate
    • 19,179 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 5,436 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 38% Men
    • 62% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 90% White
    • 1% Hispanic
    • 7% Black
    • 1% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  4. #4 Ohio State University, Main Campus

    allnurses College Ranking: A
    0 reviews

    Ohio State University, Main Campus is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, DNP, BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, BSN to PhD, MSN to PhD, CNL, CNS, CNM, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACME and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    School Overview

    • Located in Ohio
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 53% Acceptance Rate
    • 79% Graduation Rate
    • 45,140 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 14,417 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 20 Average Age
    • 50% Men
    • 50% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 88% White
    • 2% Hispanic
    • 8% Black
    • 2% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  5. #5 Ursuline College

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Ursuline College is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, MSN, DNP, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • 2550 Lander Rd, Pepper Pike, Ohio 44124, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Ohio
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Medium Programs
    • 85% Acceptance Rate
    • 62% Graduation Rate
    • 618 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 325 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 24 Average Age
    • 8% Men
    • 92% Women
    • 8% Veterans
    • 73% White
    • 2% Hispanic
    • 24% Black
    • 1% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  6. #6 Mercy College of Ohio

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Mercy College of Ohio is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including ADN/ASN, BSN, MSN, Other, Post Grad Certificate, and RN to BSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    School Overview

    • Located in Ohio
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Special Focus Four-Year: Other Health Professions Schools
    • 65% Graduation Rate
    • 1,106 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 141 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 27 Average Age
    • 11% Men
    • 89% Women
    • 3% Veterans
    • 87% White
    • 4% Hispanic
    • 9% Black
    • 1% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  7. #7 University of Toledo

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    University of Toledo is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of , hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNP, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • 2801 Bancroft St, Toledo, Ohio 43606, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Ohio
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 87% Acceptance Rate
    • 57% Graduation Rate
    • 10,787 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 3,580 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 49% Men
    • 51% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 83% White
    • 3% Hispanic
    • 13% Black
    • 1% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  8. #8 Wright State University, Main Campus

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Wright State University, Main Campus is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, MSN, DNP, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • 3640 Colonel Glenn Hwy, Dayton, Ohio 45435, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Ohio
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 95% Acceptance Rate
    • 46% Graduation Rate
    • 6,327 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 2,740 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 45% Men
    • 55% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 86% White
    • 1% Hispanic
    • 11% Black
    • 1% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  9. #9 Baldwin Wallace University

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Baldwin Wallace University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, and Accelerated BSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    School Overview

    • Located in Ohio
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Larger Programs
    • 77% Acceptance Rate
    • 64% Graduation Rate
    • 2,708 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 476 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 45% Men
    • 55% Women
    • 7% Veterans
    • 90% White
    • 2% Hispanic
    • 6% Black
    • 1% Asian
    • Specialty
      Format
      Tuition
      Score
    • Traditional BSN BSN
      On-Campus Program
      $129,480 In-State Tuition
      4.3 Program Score
    • Accelerated BSN BSN
      On-Campus Program
      $41,391 In-State Tuition
      4.6 Program Score
    * tuition estimated

  10. #10 Franciscan University of Steubenville

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Franciscan University of Steubenville is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of on-campus programs—including BSN, MSN, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • 1235 University Blvd, Steubenville, Ohio 43952, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Ohio
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Medium Programs
    • 67% Acceptance Rate
    • 76% Graduation Rate
    • 2,605 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 871 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 20 Average Age
    • 42% Men
    • 58% Women
    • 2% Veterans
    • 87% White
    • 6% Hispanic
    • 6% Black
    • 2% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  11. #11 Youngstown State University

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Youngstown State University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of on-campus, and online programs—including ADN/ASN, BSN, MSN, DNP, DNAP, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • 1 Tressel Way, Youngstown, Ohio 44555, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Ohio
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Larger Programs
    • 81% Acceptance Rate
    • 42% Graduation Rate
    • 7,741 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 2,249 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 45% Men
    • 55% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 85% White
    • 2% Hispanic
    • 12% Black
    • 1% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  12. #12 Otterbein University

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    Otterbein University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of , and on-campus programs—including BSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • 1 South Grove Street, Westerville, Ohio 43081, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Ohio
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Medium Programs
    • 84% Acceptance Rate
    • 61% Graduation Rate
    • 2,097 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 285 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 20 Average Age
    • 40% Men
    • 60% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 89% White
    • 2% Hispanic
    • 7% Black
    • 2% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  13. #13 Cincinnati State Technical and Community College

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    Cincinnati State Technical and Community College is a public and non-profit Community College. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including ADN/ASN, BSN, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    School Overview

    • Located in Ohio
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Associate's Colleges: High Career & Technical-Mixed Traditional/Nontraditional
    • 21% Graduation Rate
    • 5,501 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 26 Average Age
    • 41% Men
    • 59% Women
    • 3% Veterans
    • 73% White
    • 1% Hispanic
    • 23% Black
    • 1% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  14. #14 Case Western Reserve University

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    Case Western Reserve University is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, MSN to DNP, PhD, BSN to PhD, MSN to PhD, CRNA, CNM, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    School Overview

    • Located in Ohio
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 27% Acceptance Rate
    • 85% Graduation Rate
    • 5,927 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 6,184 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 19 Average Age
    • 52% Men
    • 48% Women
    • 6% Veterans
    • 83% White
    • 3% Hispanic
    • 11% Black
    • 3% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  15. #15 Columbus State Community College

    allnurses College Ranking: C+
    0 reviews

    Columbus State Community College is a public and non-profit Community College. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including ADN/ASN, ASN/ADN, BSN, CNA, LPN, LPN/LVN, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    School Overview

    • Located in Ohio
    • Less-than-4-year institution
    • Associate's Colleges: Mixed Transfer/Career & Technical-High Nontraditional
    • 21% Graduation Rate
    • 16,212 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 24 Average Age
    • 46% Men
    • 54% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 75% White
    • 2% Hispanic
    • 19% Black
    • 2% Asian
    * tuition estimated
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Why Become a Nurse in Ohio?

Ohio offers a wealth of opportunities for aspiring nurses, making it a top choice for those entering or advancing in the healthcare field. Here's why becoming a nurse in Ohio is an excellent decision:

Growing Demand for Nurses: Like many other states, Ohio is experiencing a nursing shortage, which is driving strong demand for nursing professionals. Ohio is home to a large and aging population, resulting in increased healthcare needs. The state's healthcare systems are actively seeking RNs and NPs to meet this growing demand, particularly in underserved rural areas. Ohio's major cities, such as Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati, also offer numerous opportunities in high-paced urban healthcare settings.

Efforts to Improve Retention: Ohio has been focused on improving working conditions for nurses to reduce burnout and support long-term retention. The Ohio Nurses Association and healthcare systems have introduced wellness initiatives to help address the mental health challenges faced by nurses. In addition, hospitals across the state are offering competitive pay, flexible scheduling options, and mentorship programs to support nurses, particularly those in their first few years of practice. Programs such as nurse residency programs are also helping new nurses transition smoothly into their roles, ensuring better retention rates compared to the national average.

Public Health and Community Involvement: Ohio has numerous Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs), especially in rural regions where access to care is limited. Nurses in Ohio have the opportunity to make a significant impact on public health by working in underserved communities where their care is most needed. Whether in urban centers or rural clinics, Ohio nurses play a crucial role in improving health equity and delivering primary care, mental health services, and preventive care to vulnerable populations.

Career Growth Opportunities: Ohio is home to many prestigious nursing programs, including those at The Ohio State University and Case Western Reserve University, which offer a wide array of advanced nursing degrees. For those looking to advance their careers, Ohio provides ample opportunities for nurses to become Nurse Practitioners (NPs), Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs), or clinical leaders in various healthcare fields. The state also supports continuing education through partnerships between healthcare systems and universities, ensuring that nurses have access to the best training and professional development opportunities.

Ohio's combination of high demand, diverse clinical settings, and strong career growth opportunities makes it an excellent state for aspiring nurses.

Steps to Become a Nurse in Ohio

Becoming a nurse in Ohio involves several key steps, each designed to ensure that you are well-prepared to provide high-quality care to patients. Whether you aim to become a Registered Nurse (RN) or advance your career as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), following the right educational and licensure pathways is crucial.

RN Requirements in Ohio

  • Complete an Accredited Nursing Program: Earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited nursing school.
  • Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam: After completing your nursing degree, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to obtain licensure.
  • Apply for RN Licensure: Submit an application for RN licensure to the Ohio State Board of Nursing (BON). This process typically involves providing your transcripts, proof of passing the NCLEX-RN, and completing a background check. For details specific to Ohio, be sure to check the NJ BON website.
  • Obtain a Nursing License: Once your application is approved, you will be issued an RN license, allowing you to practice as an RN in Ohio.
  • Pursue Continuing Education: In Ohio, RNs must complete 30 continuing education (CE) hours every two years for license renewal. It is recommended to review Ohio's Board of Nursing website for specific details pertaining to RN license renewal. 

APRN Requirements in Ohio

  1. Obtain and Maintain an RN License: Before pursuing APRN certification, you must be a licensed RN in Ohio.
  2. Earn a Graduate Degree: Complete a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with a specialization in an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) role — e.g., Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Anesthetist, Nurse Midwife.
  3. Gain Clinical Experience: APRN programs require specific clinical hours based on your specialty and degree. All graduate-level nursing programs mandate a minimum of 500 clinical hours post-graduate. The National Task Force Standards for NP Education requires at least 750 hands-on clinical hours for NP graduates, while DNP programs require a minimum of 1,000 hours. These hands-on experiences are crucial for developing advanced nursing skills.
  4. Pass a National Certification Exam: After completing your graduate program, you must pass a national certification exam specific to your APRN role and specialization.
    • American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB)
    • National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists (NACNS) 
    • American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)
    • American Association of Nurse Practitioners  American Nurses(AANP) 
    • National Board of Certification CRNA (NBCRNA)
  5. Apply for APRN Licensure: Submit an application for APRN licensure to the Ohio Board of Nursing. This may require documentation of your active RN license, advanced nursing degree, APRN certification exam results, and clinical experience. APRN license requirements vary by state, as each state has its own scope of practice regulations for APRNs. Be sure to check your Ohio's specific guidelines to understand the requirements and scope of practice.
  6. Maintain Certification and Licensure: APRNs in Ohio must maintain both their national certification and state licensure. National certification must be upheld according to the specific requirements of the certifying body for the APRN specialty. For state licensure renewal, APRNs are also required to complete 30 CE credits, for specific details contact the NJ BON as all APRN license renewal or reinstatement can not be completed online.  

Always verify with the state board of nursing, as application requirements may change or include additional steps.

Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Ohio

Salary expectations in 2025 are based on geography, experience level, education, type of nursing specialties, and the types of industry that the nurse works in.

According to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the national mean annual wage for an RN is $94,480, with the lowest 10th percentile making $63,720 and the 90th percentile making $132,680 annually. The highest employment levels were nurses in general medicine and surgical hospitals, making an annual $96,830.

RN salary in Ohio is lower than the national average at a mean annual salary of $71,640. 

The highest salary states for RNs include:

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

While the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not distinguish between nursing degree levels in its data, most nurses who pursue advanced degrees, such as an MSN or DNP, aim to become Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) — which includes Nurse Practitioners (NPs), Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs), and Nurse Anesthetists (DNAP/CRNAs).

According to the BLS, the median annual salary for APRNs is $129,480, with employment in these roles expected to grow by 40% from 2023 to 2033, reflecting strong demand for advanced practice nurses.

In Ohio, APRNs can expect to earn around $122,870 annually.

How to Choose a Nursing Program in Ohio

Selecting the right nursing program depends on various personal preferences. Some students emphasize tuition costs, while others prioritize pass rates, academic reputation, or other considerations. 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-RN Pass Rates 
  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 Course

For prospective doctorate and master's degree nursing students, additional considerations include:

  • Specialization: Ensure the program offers the right focus for your chosen specialty concentration.
  • Certification and Licensure: Meets APRN certification and state licensure requirements.
  • Certification Pass Rates: Check program national certification success rates.
  • Clinical Training: Diverse, high-quality clinical placements and/or clinical placement support.
  • Faculty Expertise: Qualified and experienced faculty.
  • Support Services: Mentoring, career services, and academic support.
  • Technology and Resources: Access to advanced technology and resources.
  • Alumni Network: Strong network for job placement and growth.
  • Interprofessional Education: Collaborative learning with other healthcare professionals.
  • State Regulations: Ensure your program is approved by the state Board of Nursing in the state where you want to work.

Choosing the right program should be based on your personal preferences and learning style. If you prefer a more flexible schedule and a longer duration for coursework and clinical practice, consider a traditional nursing program. Conversely, if you are eager to complete your education quickly and thrive in an intensive, fast-paced learning environment, an accelerated nursing program might be the better choice.

Importance of Picking an Accredited Nursing School in Ohio

Choosing to attend an accredited nursing school in Ohio is important for several reasons:

  • Assurance of Educational Quality: Accredited nursing schools undergo rigorous evaluations to ensure their curriculum, faculty, and clinical training meet high standards. This guarantees that students receive a comprehensive and up-to-date education, equipping them with the skills needed for successful nursing careers.
  • Licensing Requirements: Graduation from an accredited program is often necessary to meet state licensure requirements. Without attending an accredited school, students may find it challenging or even impossible to obtain the necessary credentials to practice as a registered nurse.
  • Enhanced Career Opportunities: Employers prioritize hiring graduates from accredited nursing programs because these programs are recognized for maintaining high educational standards. This preference can lead to better job prospects and career advancement opportunities in the nursing field.
  • Ease of Credit Transfer: Credits earned at an accredited nursing school are more likely to be recognized and accepted by other institutions. This is particularly important for students who may wish to transfer schools or pursue further education, such as a Master's or Doctoral degree in nursing.
  • Professional Credibility: Completing a program at an accredited nursing school adds to a nurse's professional credibility. It demonstrates that their education aligns with national standards, which is essential for advancing in the nursing profession.
  • Eligibility for Financial Aid: Accreditation is often a prerequisite for accessing federal financial aid, including grants and loans. Attending an accredited school ensures that students can receive the financial support they need to complete their education.

Given these points, it's important prospective students research whether their choice of nursing school is accredited by a recognized body such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), or the NLN Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA).

More Top Nursing Programs in 2025

If you're interested in a specific nursing degree or specialty, we've got you covered. Explore our comprehensive guides to nursing programs across Ohio, tailored to various career paths and levels. Find the best program for you, whether you're looking to advance your nursing career or specialize in a specific area. Check out these resources:

Undergraduate Nursing Programs

Graduate Nursing Programs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is it possible to enroll in a BSN program in Ohio without patient care experience?

Patient care experience is not always required for direct-entry BSN programs in Ohio, but it can strengthen your application. Some undergraduate nursing programs, particularly RN to BSN and accelerated second-degree BSN (ABSN) tracks, may give preference to applicants with prior healthcare experience.

For master's programs and other graduate-level nursing programs, patient care experience is typically a standard prerequisite.

Q: Can out-of-state students enroll in Ohio nursing programs?

Out-of-state students can enroll in Ohio nursing programs, though they may face higher tuition rates compared to Ohio residents. Ohio's residency requirements for in-state tuition usually involve living in the state for at least 12 months prior to enrollment.

It is important for students to verify licensure eligibility in the state where they plan to work after graduation, as not all nursing programs automatically qualify graduates for RN or APRN licensure in every state. This information can generally be confirmed on the nursing school's website and through the state Board of Nursing.

Q: Are there online options for completing a bachelor's degree or master's degree in Ohio?

Many Ohio nursing programs offer online options for non-entry-level students. Some popular online nursing program tracks include:

  • RN to BSN (No Clinical)
  • RN to MSN
  • Nurse Practitioner (NP)
  • Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

These online programs are designed for nurses with clinical experience and often allow students to complete their clinical requirements near their homes. By offering a blend of online coursework and flexible clinical placements, these programs make it easier for working nurses to advance their education without the need for full-time, on-campus attendance.

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