Best Nursing Schools in West Virginia for 2025

🏥 Top Nursing Schools in West Virginia (2025)

1. West Virginia University (WVU)

• NCLEX Pass Rate: 99% overall in 2024; 100% at Beckley and Bridgeport campuses Health Sciencesnursing.wvu.edu
• Tuition: In-state: $9,384/year; Out-of-state: $26,568/year
• Graduation Rate: 60%
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Programs Offered:
  • BSN
  • Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
  • RN to BSN
  • MSN
  • DNP
  • PhD
• Highlights:
  • Multiple campuses across the state
  • Strong clinical partnerships
  • High first-time NCLEX pass rates
  • Expedited summer pathway for BSN students

2. Marshall University

• NCLEX Pass Rate: 98.11% in 2024
• Tuition: In-state: $8,604/year; Out-of-state: $19,658/year
• Graduation Rate: 63.2% (BSN program)
• Accreditation: ACEN
• Programs Offered:
  • BSN
  • Accelerated BSN
  • RN to BSN
  • MSN
  • Post-MSN
  • DNP
• Highlights:
  • Partnerships with local healthcare facilities for clinical experiences
  • Online graduate programs
  • High certification pass rates for MSN graduates

3. Shepherd University

• NCLEX Pass Rate: 94.37% in 2024
• Tuition: In-state: $8,282/year; Out-of-state: $18,722/year
• Graduation Rate: 49%
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Programs Offered:
  • BSN
  • RN to BSN
  • DNP
  • Post-Graduate Certificates
• Highlights:
  • Patient-centered curriculum
  • Advanced simulation labs
  • Multiple entry points to DNP programPublicNow

4. West Virginia Wesleyan College

• NCLEX Pass Rate: 86.52% (3-year average)
• Tuition: In-state: $18,521/year; Out-of-state: $18,521/year
• Graduation Rate: Data not specified
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Programs Offered:
  • BSN
  • RN to BSN
  • MSN
  • Post-Master’s Certificates
• Highlights:
  • Emphasis on community engagement
  • High employment rates for graduates
  • New LPN to BSN pathway starting in fall 2025 

5. University of Charleston

• NCLEX Pass Rate: 94.5% in 2024
• Tuition: In-state: $18,799/year; Out-of-state: $18,799/year
• Graduation Rate: 57.7% (2024)
• Accreditation: ACEN
• Programs Offered:
  • BSN
  • ADN
• Highlights:
  • Over 3,000 nursing graduates in 50+ years
  • Strong focus on student success and NCLEX preparationRNCareers+2University of Charleston+2Home - West Virginia Wesleyan College+2

🎓 Selecting the Right Nursing Program

When choosing a nursing school in West Virginia, consider the following factors:

• Location: Proximity to clinical sites and personal convenience.
• Tuition and Financial Aid: Evaluate in-state vs. out-of-state costs and available scholarships.
• NCLEX Pass Rates: Higher pass rates often indicate better preparation.
• Program Offerings: Ensure the school offers the degree and specialization you seek.
• Graduation Rates: Reflects student satisfaction and program effectiveness.

🚀 Next Steps

1. Research Programs: Visit the official websites of the schools listed to gather more information.
2. Prepare Application Materials: Gather transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.
3. Apply for Financial Aid: Complete the FAFSA and explore scholarship opportunities.
4. Plan for Licensure: Understand the requirements for the NCLEX-RN and any state-specific licensure criteria.nursing.wvu.edu+15shepherd.edu+15nursing.wvu.edu+15

For more information on nursing careers and job opportunities, visit GoodWork.