Best Nursing Schools in North Carolina for 2025
🏥 Top Nursing Schools in North Carolina (2025)
1. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 96% (2024 graduates)
- In-State Tuition: $7,019
- Out-of-State Tuition: $35,580
- Graduation Rate: 91%
- Programs Offered: BSN, Accelerated BSN, BSN Military Pathway, MSN, DNP, PhD, Graduate CertificateNursing at UNCNursing CareersIncredible Health
2. Western Carolina University
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 100%
- In-State Tuition: $7,070
- Out-of-State Tuition: $11,070
- Graduation Rate: 64%
- Programs Offered: BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN (Nurse Educator, Nurse Leadership), DNP
3. East Carolina University
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 98%
- In-State Tuition: $7,325
- Out-of-State Tuition: $23,602
- Graduation Rate: 67%
- Programs Offered: BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, DNP, PhDNCBON+3College of Nursing ECU+3Research.com+3
4. University of North Carolina Wilmington
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 91.55% (3-year average: 2022–2024)
- In-State Tuition: $4,443
- Out-of-State Tuition: $19,063
- Graduation Rate: 73%
- Programs Offered: BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNPU.S. News+8University of North Carolina Wilmington+8NCBON+8
5. University of North Carolina at Charlotte
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 100% (December 2024 cohort)
- In-State Tuition: $3,812
- Out-of-State Tuition: $17,936
- Graduation Rate: 66%
- Programs Offered: BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNPSchool of Nursing
6. Duke University
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 99%
- Tuition: $26,369 per semester (ABSN program)
- Graduation Rate: 96%
- Programs Offered: ABSN, MSN, DNP, PhDDuke University School of Nursing+1Duke University School of Nursing+1Nursing Schools Almanac
7. University of North Carolina at Pembroke
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 96% (2023)
- In-State Tuition: $1,000
- Out-of-State Tuition: $5,000
- Graduation Rate: 45%
- Programs Offered: BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, RIBN Program
8. Appalachian State University
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 95% (5-year average)
- In-State Tuition: $7,950
- Out-of-State Tuition: $23,954
- Graduation Rate: 74%
- Programs Offered: BSN, RN to BSN, MSNDuke University School of Nursing+6Department of Nursing+6assessment.uncg.edu+6Smart'nNursing Schools+4Western Carolina University | Home+4Nursing Careers+4
9. University of North Carolina at Greensboro
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 85% (2022)
- In-State Tuition: $7,406
- Out-of-State Tuition: $22,565
- Graduation Rate: 57%
- Programs Offered: BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNP, PhD, Post CertificateNursing Schools Almanac+8Nursing Careers+8My Perfect Words+8Incredible Health
10. Queens University of Charlotte
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 93%
- Tuition: $832 per credit hour (Traditional BSN)
- Graduation Rate: 54%
- Programs Offered: BSN, Accelerated BSN, RN to BSN, MSNU.S. News+4Nurse.org+4Queens University of Charlotte -+4
🎓 Selecting the Right Nursing Program
When choosing a nursing program in North Carolina, consider the following factors:
- Location: Determine whether you prefer an urban or rural setting, proximity to clinical sites, and availability of online or hybrid courses.
- Tuition and Financial Aid: Evaluate the cost of attendance and explore scholarships, grants, and loan forgiveness programs to minimize debt.
- NCLEX Pass Rates: High pass rates often indicate strong academic support and effective preparation for licensure exams.
- Program Offerings: Ensure the school offers the specific degree or specialization you seek, whether it's a BSN, MSN, DNP, or PhD.
- Graduation Rates: Higher graduation rates can reflect student satisfaction and institutional support.
🚀 Next Steps
Embarking on a nursing career in North Carolina offers numerous opportunities across various healthcare settings. After selecting a program that aligns with your goals, prepare your application materials, seek financial aid, and connect with admissions advisors for guidance.
For assistance in exploring nursing job opportunities post-graduation, visit GoodWork World.
