Nursing Schools in Charlotte, North Carolina

Charlotte, North Carolina, offers aspiring nursing professionals a vibrant and enriching environment. The city is home to several renowned nursing schools, each providing exceptional education and clinical experiences to prepare students for successful careers in healthcare.

Join us as we explore some of the prominent nursing schools in Charlotte, their unique offerings, and the opportunities they provide for nursing students. Additionally, we will delve into what it's like to study nursing in Charlotte, from the strong healthcare community to the support and resources available for students.

If you're considering a career in nursing and looking to embark on an educational journey in Charlotte, read on to discover the possibilities in this dynamic and growing healthcare field.

Nursing Schools in Charlotte, NC

1. Carolinas College of Health Sciences

Carolinas College of Health Sciences is affiliated with Atrium Health, one of the leading healthcare systems in the region, providing students with exceptional clinical opportunities. With a focus on hands-on training and evidence-based practice, students graduate well-prepared for successful careers in healthcare.

• ADN: 5-6 semesters; Upon entering this program, students get conditional admission to the RN-BSN program. They can take upper-level BSN courses during their ADN program but must fully transition within a year of ADN graduation and passing the NCLEX.
• RN to BSN: flexible online program, 12-18 months, transfer credits for evaluation and approval

2. Central Piedmont Community College

Central Piedmont Community College offers a comprehensive Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program. With a commitment to affordable and accessible education, the college provides a supportive learning environment for nursing students. The program's curriculum emphasizes theoretical knowledge and practical skills, ensuring graduates are equipped for entry-level nursing positions.

• ADN: in-person class or hybrid option, 69 credits

3. Chamberlain University College of Nursing

Chamberlain University's College of Nursing offers various nursing programs designed to prepare students for diverse roles in healthcare. The college focuses on student success, providing personalized support and engaging learning experiences. Chamberlain's nursing programs emphasize patient-centered care and evidence-based practice, empowering graduates to positively impact the nursing profession.

• BSN: 36 months, transfer qualifying credits from previous coursework, 122 credits required
• RN to BSN: 12 months full-time online program, part-time option is also offered, take 2-3 courses per eight-week session
• RN to MSN: earn BSN, MSN, or both, fully online, cost and time effective way to earn two degrees, earn master's degree in spare time, flexible due dates
• MSN
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP): 48 credit hours, 750 hours lab and clinicals
  • Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP): 45 credit hours, 650 hours lab and clinicals
  • Family Nurse Practitioner: 45 credit hours, 650 hours lab and clinicals
  • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner: 47 credit hours, 650 hours lab and clinicals

4. Northeastern University - Charlotte

Northeastern University's Charlotte campus offers the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, which takes 16 months to complete. The university's nursing curriculum incorporates cutting-edge research and practical experiences to ensure students are well-prepared for nursing leadership roles. The program fosters critical thinking and compassion in patient care.

• Accelerated BSN: 62 credits, 16 months, hybrid program

5. Queens University of Charlotte

Queens University of Charlotte boasts a distinguished nursing program focusing on leadership and compassionate care. The BSN program at Queens emphasizes the integration of liberal arts and nursing education, fostering well-rounded nursing professionals. With a commitment to community engagement and interprofessional collaboration, graduates are equipped to address complex healthcare challenges.

• BSN
• Accelerated BSN
• MSN Programs: 36 credits, 24 months, $630 cost per credit
  • Clinical Nurse Leader
  • Nurse Administrator
  • Nurse Educator

6. University of North Carolina at Charlotte

The University of North Carolina at Charlotte offers a comprehensive range of nursing programs, from BSN to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). With a strong emphasis on research, innovation, and community engagement, the university prepares nursing students for leadership roles in healthcare. The nursing faculty at UNC Charlotte are experienced professionals dedicated to providing a transformative education.

• BSN: 120 credits required
• RN to BSN: 12-month program if full-time, 31 credit hours, distance education online learning
• DNP: The Post-Master's DNP program requires a minimum of 2 years (5 semesters) for full-time students and a minimum of 3 years (8 semesters) for part-time students. It is a distance-based program. The Nurse Anesthesia DNP program is full-time, campus-based, and can be completed in 9 semesters, with a maximum allowable completion time of 6 years.
• Graduate Certificate Programs: stand alone program that consists of 12-15 credits
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Nurse Administrator
  • Nurse Anesthesia
  • Nurse Educator
  • Nurse Anesthesia Across the Lifespan
  • Applied Nursing Informatics
  • Family Nurse Practitioner Across the Lifespan
• MSN Programs: The first two programs are campus-based, while the last three can be completed online.
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Family Nurse Practitioner Across the Life Span
  • Nurse Administrator
  • Nurse Educator
  • Community/Public Health

7. Southwestern Community College

Southwestern Community College, located in Sylva, North Carolina, offers a practical nursing program for aspiring Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). The program equips students with the essential nursing skills and knowledge to provide quality patient care. With a focus on clinical experiences, graduates are prepared to work in various healthcare settings.

• AAS

Types of Nursing Programs in Charlotte, NC

Many different types of nursing degrees, certificates, and diplomas are available. However, the most common programs obtained by nursing professionals include:

• ADN Programs: 24 months, leading to an RN career.
• BSN Programs: 48 months, leading to an RN career.
• RN to BSN Programs: 9 to 48 months, leading to an RN career.
• MSN Programs: 48 months, leading to APRN careers.
• DNP Programs: 48-60 months, leading to APRN and administration careers.

Studying Nursing in Charlotte, NC

Studying nursing in Charlotte offers aspiring healthcare professionals a dynamic and rewarding experience. Here's what to expect:

• Diverse Nursing Programs: Charlotte boasts a variety of nursing programs offered by reputable universities and colleges. Whether you're pursuing an ADN, BSN, MSN, or DNP, there are options to suit various educational backgrounds and career goals.
• Strong Healthcare Community: Charlotte has prominent healthcare systems and medical facilities, providing nursing students with abundant clinical opportunities. Students can work alongside experienced healthcare professionals and gain practical skills in real-world healthcare settings.
• Cutting-Edge Facilities: Many nursing schools in Charlotte feature state-of-the-art simulation labs and modern facilities. These advanced resources allow students to practice clinical scenarios in a safe and controlled environment, enhancing their confidence and competence in patient care.
• Supportive Faculty: Nursing faculty in Charlotte provide a supportive and engaging learning experience. They are experienced professionals who bring real-world expertise into the classroom, guiding students through their academic journey and fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Nursing programs in Charlotte often encourage interprofessional collaboration. Students have opportunities to work with students from other healthcare disciplines, such as medicine, pharmacy, and physical therapy, gaining insight into the importance of teamwork in healthcare delivery.
• Networking Opportunities: Charlotte's healthcare community hosts various events, conferences, and workshops that provide networking opportunities for nursing students. These activities allow students to connect with healthcare professionals, potential mentors, and future colleagues.
• Strong Job Market: Charlotte's growing healthcare industry offers promising job prospects for nursing graduates. The city's numerous hospitals, clinics, and healthcare organizations provide students with various nursing roles and specialties to explore.
• Vibrant Student Life: Beyond academics, Charlotte offers a vibrant student life with various cultural events, recreational activities, and a diverse culinary scene. Nursing students have opportunities to unwind and enjoy the city's lively atmosphere.
• Emphasis on Evidence-Based Practice: In Charlotte, nursing programs and an effective community healthcare plan prioritize evidence-based practice, ensuring that students are equipped with the latest research and clinical guidelines to provide high-quality patient care as part of the broader community health care plan.
• Opportunities for Leadership Development: Many nursing programs in Charlotte emphasize leadership and management skills, preparing students for potential leadership roles in healthcare organizations.

Overall, studying nursing in Charlotte offers a comprehensive and well-rounded education, blending theoretical knowledge with practical experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does it take to complete a BSN program in Charlotte?

The duration of a BSN program in Charlotte typically ranges from 3 to 4 years, depending on the specific university or college. Some schools may offer accelerated BSN programs for students with a non-nursing bachelor's degree, which can be completed in about 12-18 months.

Are there part-time nursing programs available in Charlotte?

Some nursing schools in Charlotte offer part-time nursing programs to accommodate students with other commitments, such as work or family responsibilities. Part-time programs allow students to pursue their nursing education more flexibly.

What are the admission requirements for nursing schools in Charlotte, NC?

Admission requirements vary among nursing schools but generally include a high school diploma or equivalent, prerequisite courses in sciences and other subjects, satisfactory GPA, letters of recommendation, and sometimes an admission test like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI (Health Education Systems, Inc.) exam.

How competitive is it to get into nursing schools in Charlotte?

In Charlotte, nurse practitioner programs, along with other nursing programs, can be highly competitive due to the strong demand for nursing education. The number of applicants frequently surpasses available slots, particularly for BSN programs, necessitating prospective students to meet admission criteria and submit a robust application.