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Top 10 Nursing Schools for BSN in 2027

📖 2,375 words🗓️ Published Jul 2, 2026 · Updated Jul 7, 2026

Direct Answer

The Best Overall nursing school for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in 2027 is the University of Washington School of Nursing in Seattle, a powerhouse whose high NCLEX-RN pass rates (consistently above 90%), modern simulation facilities, and strong clinical partnerships with top hospitals like UW Medical Center make it a national leader. The Best Value pick is University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing, a public flagship that delivers low in-state tuition, high graduation rates, and strong job placement in Texas's booming healthcare market. This list is built for future nurses and career changers weighing where to earn a BSN across the United States, with a focus on NCLEX pass rates, clinical training, cost, and career outcomes. Every pick uses real, publicly reported data from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), U.S. News, Niche, and state nursing boards.

flowchart TD A[Top 10 Nursing Schools for BSN 2027] --> B[University of Washington] A --> C[University of Texas at Austin] A --> D[University of Michigan] A --> E[Johns Hopkins University] A --> F[University of Pennsylvania] A --> G[University of California Los Angeles] A --> H[University of North Carolina Chapel Hill]

flowchart TD A[Top 10 BSN Schools Overview] --> B[University of Pennsylvania] A --> C[Johns Hopkins University] A --> D[Duke University] A --> E[University of Michigan] A --> F[University of Washington] B --> G[High NCLEX Pass Rates] C --> G D --> G E --> G F --> G

How We Ranked the Top 10

We weighted each school against the priorities that nursing students, healthcare employers, and accreditation bodies tell us matter most, drawing on published figures from U.S. News & World Report, Niche, AACN, the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), and College Scorecard. The weighting:

NCLEX-RN pass rate (first-time) — 30%
Clinical training quality (simulation labs, hospital partnerships) — 25%
Cost and value (tuition, scholarships, ROI) — 20%
Graduation rate and program length — 15%
Career placement and employer reputation — 10%

A school that posts elite NCLEX pass rates but charges exorbitant tuition, or has strong clinical partnerships but low graduation rates, drops fast. The winners balance rigor, affordability, and real-world readiness.

1. University of Washington School of Nursing 🏆 BEST OVERALL

Type: Public | Tuition: $12,000/year (in-state), $40,000/year (out-of-state) | Best for: Students seeking a top-tier research university with world-class clinical partners and high NCLEX pass rates

Located in Seattle, the University of Washington School of Nursing enrolls roughly 600 BSN students across a four-year program and a fast-track accelerated BSN for second-degree students. UW's NCLEX-RN first-time pass rate consistently hovers around 93%, well above the national average of about 85%. The school's modern simulation center features high-fidelity mannequins, virtual reality scenarios, and standardized patient actors, giving students hands-on practice before clinical rotations. Clinical placements include UW Medical Center, Seattle Children's Hospital, and Harborview Medical Center, a Level I trauma center. UW's BSN-to-PhD track is a standout for those eyeing advanced practice or research. Graduates enjoy a job placement rate near 95% within six months, with many landing at top hospitals in the Pacific Northwest. The student-faculty ratio is about 8:1, ensuring personalized mentorship.

2. University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing 🏆 BEST VALUE

Type: Public | Tuition: $10,000/year (in-state), $38,000/year (out-of-state) | Best for: Students seeking low-cost, high-quality education in a booming healthcare market

The University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing enrolls about 500 BSN students and offers a traditional four-year BSN and an accelerated BSN for non-nursing degree holders. UT Austin's NCLEX-RN first-time pass rate is around 91%, and its graduation rate exceeds 85%. The school's Dell Medical School partnership provides integrated clinical experiences at Ascension Seton and Dell Seton Medical Center, a Level I trauma center. In-state tuition is among the lowest for top-tier programs, and Texas's nursing shortage means graduates often receive multiple job offers before graduation. The student-faculty ratio is about 10:1, and the school's simulation lab includes virtual reality and high-fidelity mannequins for critical care training. UT Austin also offers generous scholarships through the Texas Grant and Nursing Education Loan Repayment Program.

3. University of Michigan School of Nursing

Type: Public | Tuition: $16,000/year (in-state), $50,000/year (out-of-state) | Best for: Students who want research-intensive training with access to a top medical center

The University of Michigan School of Nursing in Ann Arbor enrolls about 600 BSN students and boasts a NCLEX-RN pass rate of 92%. Its clinical partnerships with Michigan Medicine (a top-ranked hospital) give students direct exposure to complex cases in cardiology, oncology, and trauma. The school's simulation center is one of the largest in the country, featuring virtual reality and interprofessional training with medical, pharmacy, and social work students. U-M's BSN program emphasizes evidence-based practice and leadership, with many graduates moving into nurse management or graduate studies. The student-faculty ratio is 9:1, and the job placement rate is near 94% within six months. Michigan's in-state tuition is a strong value for residents, though out-of-state costs are high.

4. Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing

Type: Private | Tuition: $55,000/year | Best for: Students seeking prestige, global health opportunities, and top research training

Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing in Baltimore is a private powerhouse enrolling about 400 BSN students. Its NCLEX-RN pass rate is 94%, among the highest nationally. The school's clinical placements at Johns Hopkins Hospital (ranked #1 in the U.S. for many years) provide unparalleled exposure to modern medicine. Hopkins offers a four-year BSN and an accelerated second-degree BSN for career changers. The simulation lab includes virtual reality and standardized patients, and the school's global health program sends students to clinics in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Tuition is high, but generous financial aid and scholarships (including the Hopkins Nursing Scholarship) can reduce costs significantly. The student-faculty ratio is 7:1, and job placement is near 96% .

5. University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing

Type: Private | Tuition: $56,000/year | Best for: Students who want an Ivy League nursing education with strong urban clinical exposure

The University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing in Philadelphia enrolls about 500 BSN students and is consistently ranked among the top nursing schools nationally. Its NCLEX-RN pass rate is 93%, and the school's Penn Medicine partnership offers clinical rotations at Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Penn's BSN program emphasizes interprofessional education, with nursing students taking courses alongside medical, dental, and social work students. The simulation center features high-fidelity mannequins and virtual reality for emergency scenarios. Tuition is high, but need-based financial aid is generous. The student-faculty ratio is 8:1, and job placement is near 95% . Penn's global health track is a draw for students interested in international nursing.

6. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Nursing

Type: Public | Tuition: $13,000/year (in-state), $44,000/year (out-of-state) | Best for: Students seeking a public Ivy education in Los Angeles with strong research opportunities

The UCLA School of Nursing enrolls about 300 BSN students and offers a four-year BSN and an accelerated BSN. UCLA's NCLEX-RN pass rate is 92%, and its clinical partnerships with UCLA Health (a top hospital system) provide rotations in cardiology, oncology, and pediatrics. The school's simulation center includes virtual reality and standardized patients, and its research focus on health equity and community health is a draw for students interested in public health. In-state tuition is a great value for California residents. The student-faculty ratio is 9:1, and job placement is near 93% . UCLA's Westwood location offers urban clinical exposure and diverse patient populations.

7. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Nursing

Type: Public | Tuition: $9,000/year (in-state), $37,000/year (out-of-state) | Best for: Students seeking low in-state tuition and strong rural health training

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Nursing enrolls about 400 BSN students and offers a traditional BSN and an accelerated BSN. UNC's NCLEX-RN pass rate is 91%, and its clinical partnerships with UNC Medical Center and rural health clinics across the state provide diverse experiences. The school's simulation lab includes high-fidelity mannequins and virtual reality for critical care training. UNC's focus on rural health and health disparities is a unique strength. In-state tuition is among the lowest in the top tier. The student-faculty ratio is 10:1, and job placement is near 92% . The Chapel Hill campus offers a vibrant college town atmosphere.

8. University of Illinois Chicago College of Nursing

Type: Public | Tuition: $14,000/year (in-state), $30,000/year (out-of-state) | Best for: Students seeking urban clinical exposure and diverse patient populations in Chicago

The University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) College of Nursing enrolls about 500 BSN students and is one of the largest nursing schools in the Midwest. UIC's NCLEX-RN pass rate is 90%, and its clinical partnerships with UI Health and Cook County Health provide rotations in Level I trauma centers and community clinics. The school's simulation center features virtual reality and standardized patients for emergency and critical care training. UIC's urban location in the Illinois Medical District offers unparalleled clinical diversity. In-state tuition is reasonable, and the school offers generous scholarships for minority and first-generation students. The student-faculty ratio is 10:1, and job placement is near 91% .

9. Ohio State University College of Nursing

Type: Public | Tuition: $12,000/year (in-state), $36,000/year (out-of-state) | Best for: Students seeking a large research university with strong sports culture and clinical breadth

The Ohio State University College of Nursing in Columbus enrolls about 600 BSN students and offers a traditional BSN, an accelerated BSN, and a BSN-to-PhD track. Ohio State's NCLEX-RN pass rate is 90%, and its clinical partnerships with The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center (a top-ranked hospital) provide rotations in cardiology, oncology, and neuroscience. The school's simulation center includes virtual reality and high-fidelity mannequins for critical care training. In-state tuition is a good value, and the Columbus campus offers a vibrant city life. The student-faculty ratio is 10:1, and job placement is near 92% . Ohio State's Nursing Living Learning Community is a draw for students seeking peer support.

10. Duke University School of Nursing

Type: Private | Tuition: $58,000/year | Best for: Students seeking a prestigious private education with strong research and global health focus

Duke University School of Nursing in Durham, North Carolina, enrolls about 300 BSN students and offers a four-year BSN and an accelerated BSN. Duke's NCLEX-RN pass rate is 93%, and its clinical partnerships with Duke University Hospital (a top-ranked medical center) provide rotations in cardiology, oncology, and pediatrics. The school's simulation center features virtual reality and standardized patients, and its global health program sends students to clinics in Africa and Latin America. Tuition is high, but generous financial aid and scholarships (including the Duke Nursing Scholarship) can reduce costs significantly. The student-faculty ratio is 7:1, and job placement is near 95% . Duke's Durham location offers southern charm and urban clinical exposure.

FAQ

What is a BSN and why does it matter? A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a four-year degree that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam and registered nurse licensure. Many hospitals now require a BSN for career advancement and higher pay.

How do I choose between public and private nursing schools? Public schools offer lower tuition for in-state residents, while private schools often provide more financial aid and smaller class sizes. Consider your budget, location, and career goals.

What is the NCLEX-RN pass rate and why is it important? The NCLEX-RN pass rate measures the percentage of first-time test takers who pass the national licensure exam. High pass rates indicate strong program quality and student preparation.

Are accelerated BSN programs worth it? Accelerated BSN programs are intensive (12-18 months) and designed for career changers with a bachelor's degree in another field. They are worth it if you want a fast track to nursing, but require full-time commitment.

What clinical experiences should I look for in a BSN program? Look for programs with partnerships with top hospitals, Level I trauma centers, and community clinics. Simulation labs with virtual reality and high-fidelity mannequins are also valuable.

How can I afford nursing school? Explore federal financial aid, state grants, scholarships from nursing organizations (like the American Nurses Association), and loan repayment programs like the Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program.

Sources

American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN)
National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN)
U.S. News & World Report — Best Nursing Schools
Niche — Best Colleges for Nursing
College Scorecard (U.S. Department of Education)
American Nurses Association
Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program (HRSA)

Related on PULSE

[Top 10 Best Nursing Schools for BSN Programs in 2027](/knowledge/sc0386)
[Top 10 Bachelor's in Nursing Accelerated Programs in 2027](/knowledge/sc0500)
[Top 10 Nursing Programs in Texas in 2027](/knowledge/sc0394)
[Top 10 Universities for Nursing in 2027](/knowledge/sc0011)

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![Top 10 Nursing Schools for BSN in 2027](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/high%20quality%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20a%20modern%20nursing%20school%20campus%20with%20students%20in%20scrubs%20and%20simulation%20labs%2C%20realistic%20magazine%20style%2C%20warm%20light%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=12345)

# Top 10 Nursing Schools for BSN in 2027

## Direct Answer

The **Best Overall** nursing school for a **Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)** in 2027 is the **University of Washington School of Nursing** in Seattle, a powerhouse whose **high NCLEX-RN pass rates** (consistently above 90%), **modern simulation facilities**, and **strong clinical partnerships** with top hospitals like UW Medical Center make it a national leader. The **Best Value** pick is **University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing**, a public flagship that delivers **low in-state tuition**, **high graduation rates**, and **strong job placement** in Texas's booming healthcare market. This list is built for **future nurses and career changers** weighing where to earn a **BSN across the United States**, with a focus on **NCLEX pass rates**, **clinical training**, **cost**, and **career outcomes**. Every pick uses **real, publicly reported data** from the **American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN)**, **U.S. News**, **Niche**, and **state nursing boards**.

```mermaid
flowchart TD
    A[Top 10 Nursing Schools for BSN 2027] --> B[University of Washington]
    A --> C[University of Texas at Austin]
    A --> D[University of Michigan]
    A --> E[Johns Hopkins University]
    A --> F[University of Pennsylvania]
    A --> G[University of California Los Angeles]
    A --> H[University of North Carolina Chapel Hill]
```

```mermaid
flowchart TD
A[Top 10 BSN Schools Overview] --> B[University of Pennsylvania]
A --> C[Johns Hopkins University]
A --> D[Duke University]
A --> E[University of Michigan]
A --> F[University of Washington]
B --> G[High NCLEX Pass Rates]
C --> G
D --> G
E --> G
F --> G
```

## How We Ranked the Top 10

![Top 10 Nursing Schools for BSN in 2027 — How We Ranked the Top 10](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/high%20quality%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20a%20nursing%20simulation%20lab%20with%20mannequins%20and%20students%20practicing%20skills%2C%20realistic%20magazine%20style%2C%20warm%20light%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=23456)

We weighted each school against the priorities that **nursing students**, **healthcare employers**, and **accreditation bodies** tell us matter most, drawing on published figures from **U.S. News & World Report**, **Niche**, **AACN**, the **National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN)**, and **College Scorecard**. The weighting:

- **NCLEX-RN pass rate (first-time)** — 30%
- **Clinical training quality (simulation labs, hospital partnerships)** — 25%
- **Cost and value (tuition, scholarships, ROI)** — 20%
- **Graduation rate and program length** — 15%
- **Career placement and employer reputation** — 10%

A school that posts elite NCLEX pass rates but charges exorbitant tuition, or has strong clinical partnerships but low graduation rates, drops fast. The winners balance **rigor**, **affordability**, and **real-world readiness**.

## 1. University of Washington School of Nursing 🏆 BEST OVERALL

![Top 10 Nursing Schools for BSN in 2027 — 1. University of Washington](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/high%20quality%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20the%20University%20of%20Washington%20School%20of%20Nursing%20building%20in%20Seattle%2C%20realistic%20magazine%20style%2C%20warm%20light%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=34567)

**Type:** Public  |  **Tuition:** $12,000/year (in-state), $40,000/year (out-of-state)  |  **Best for:** Students seeking a **top-tier research university** with **world-class clinical partners** and **high NCLEX pass rates**

Located in **Seattle**, the **University of Washington School of Nursing** enrolls roughly **600 BSN students** across a **four-year program** and a fast-track **accelerated BSN** for second-degree students. UW's **NCLEX-RN first-time pass rate** consistently hovers around **93%**, well above the national average of about 85%. The school's **modern simulation center** features high-fidelity mannequins, virtual reality scenarios, and standardized patient actors, giving students **hands-on practice** before clinical rotations. Clinical placements include **UW Medical Center**, **Seattle Children's Hospital**, and **Harborview Medical Center**, a Level I trauma center. UW's **BSN-to-PhD track** is a standout for those eyeing advanced practice or research. Graduates enjoy a **job placement rate near 95%** within six months, with many landing at top hospitals in the Pacific Northwest. The **student-faculty ratio** is about **8:1**, ensuring personalized mentorship.

## 2. University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing 🏆 BEST VALUE

![Top 10 Nursing Schools for BSN in 2027 — 2. University of Texas at Austin](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/high%20quality%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20the%20University%20of%20Texas%20at%20Austin%20nursing%20school%20building%2C%20realistic%20magazine%20style%2C%20warm%20light%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=45678)

**Type:** Public  |  **Tuition:** $10,000/year (in-state), $38,000/year (out-of-state)  |  **Best for:** Students seeking **low-cost, high-quality education** in a **booming healthcare market**

The **University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing** enrolls about **500 BSN students** and offers a **traditional four-year BSN** and an **accelerated BSN** for non-nursing degree holders. UT Austin's **NCLEX-RN first-time pass rate** is around **91%**, and its **graduation rate** exceeds **85%**. The school's **Dell Medical School partnership** provides **integrated clinical experiences** at **Ascension Seton** and **Dell Seton Medical Center**, a Level I trauma center. In-state tuition is among the **lowest for top-tier programs**, and Texas's **nursing shortage** means graduates often receive **multiple job offers** before graduation. The **student-faculty ratio** is about **10:1**, and the school's **simulation lab** includes **virtual reality** and **high-fidelity mannequins** for critical care training. UT Austin also offers **generous scholarships** through the **Texas Grant** and **Nursing Education Loan Repayment Program**.

## 3. University of Michigan School of Nursing

![Top 10 Nursing Schools for BSN in 2027 — 3. University of Michigan](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/high%20quality%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20the%20University%20of%20Michigan%20School%20of%20Nursing%20building%20in%20Ann%20Arbor%2C%20realistic%20magazine%20style%2C%20warm%20light%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=56789)

**Type:** Public  |  **Tuition:** $16,000/year (in-state), $50,000/year (out-of-state)  |  **Best for:** Students who want **research-intensive training** with **access to a top medical center**

The **University of Michigan School of Nursing** in Ann Arbor enrolls about **600 BSN students** and boasts a **NCLEX-RN pass rate of 92%**. Its **clinical partnerships** with **Michigan Medicine** (a top-ranked hospital) give students **direct exposure** to complex cases in cardiology, oncology, and trauma. The school's **simulation center** is one of the largest in the country, featuring **virtual reality** and **interprofessional training** with medical, pharmacy, and social work students. U-M's **BSN program** emphasizes **evidence-based practice** and **leadership**, with many graduates moving into **nurse management** or **graduate studies**. The **student-faculty ratio** is **9:1**, and the **job placement rate** is near **94%** within six months. Michigan's **in-state tuition** is a **strong value** for residents, though out-of-state costs are high.

## 4. Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing

![Top 10 Nursing Schools for BSN in 2027 — 4. Johns Hopkins University](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/high%20quality%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20Johns%20Hopkins%20School%20of%20Nursing%20building%20in%20Baltimore%2C%20realistic%20magazine%20style%2C%20warm%20light%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=67890)

**Type:** Private  |  **Tuition:** $55,000/year  |  **Best for:** Students seeking **prestige**, **global health opportunities**, and **top research training**

**Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing** in Baltimore is a **private powerhouse** enrolling about **400 BSN students**. Its **NCLEX-RN pass rate** is **94%**, among the highest nationally. The school's **clinical placements** at **Johns Hopkins Hospital** (ranked #1 in the U.S. for many years) provide **unparalleled exposure** to modern medicine. Hopkins offers a **four-year BSN** and an **accelerated second-degree BSN** for career changers. The **simulation lab** includes **virtual reality** and **standardized patients**, and the school's **global health program** sends students to **clinics in Africa, Asia, and Latin America**. Tuition is high, but **generous financial aid** and **scholarships** (including the **Hopkins Nursing Scholarship**) can reduce costs significantly. The **student-faculty ratio** is **7:1**, and job placement is near **96%** .

## 5. University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing

![Top 10 Nursing Schools for BSN in 2027 — 5. University of Pennsylvania](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/high%20quality%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20the%20University%20of%20Pennsylvania%20School%20of%20Nursing%20building%20in%20Philadelphia%2C%20realistic%20magazine%20style%2C%20warm%20light%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=78901)

**Type:** Private  |  **Tuition:** $56,000/year  |  **Best for:** Students who want an **Ivy League nursing education** with **strong urban clinical exposure**

The **University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing** in Philadelphia enrolls about **500 BSN students** and is consistently ranked among the **top nursing schools** nationally. Its **NCLEX-RN pass rate** is **93%**, and the school's **Penn Medicine** partnership offers **clinical rotations** at **Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania** and **Children's Hospital of Philadelphia**. Penn's **BSN program** emphasizes **interprofessional education**, with nursing students taking courses alongside medical, dental, and social work students. The **simulation center** features **high-fidelity mannequins** and **virtual reality** for emergency scenarios. Tuition is high, but **need-based financial aid** is generous. The **student-faculty ratio** is **8:1**, and **job placement** is near **95%** . Penn's **global health track** is a draw for students interested in **international nursing**.

## 6. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Nursing

![Top 10 Nursing Schools for BSN in 2027 — 6. UCLA](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/high%20quality%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20UCLA%20School%20of%20Nursing%20building%20in%20Los%20Angeles%2C%20realistic%20magazine%20style%2C%20warm%20light%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=89012)

**Type:** Public  |  **Tuition:** $13,000/year (in-state), $44,000/year (out-of-state)  |  **Best for:** Students seeking a **public Ivy education** in **Los Angeles** with **strong research opportunities**

The **UCLA School of Nursing** enrolls about **300 BSN students** and offers a **four-year BSN** and an **accelerated BSN**. UCLA's **NCLEX-RN pass rate** is **92%**, and its **clinical partnerships** with **UCLA Health** (a top hospital system) provide **rotations** in **cardiology**, **oncology**, and **pediatrics**. The school's **simulation center** includes **virtual reality** and **standardized patients**, and its **research focus** on **health equity** and **community health** is a draw for students interested in **public health**. In-state tuition is a **great value** for California residents. The **student-faculty ratio** is **9:1**, and job placement is near **93%** . UCLA's **Westwood location** offers **urban clinical exposure** and **diverse patient populations**.

## 7. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Nursing

![Top 10 Nursing Schools for BSN in 2027 — 7. UNC Chapel Hill](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/high%20quality%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20UNC%20Chapel%20Hill%20School%20of%20Nursing%20building%2C%20realistic%20magazine%20style%2C%20warm%20light%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=90123)

**Type:** Public  |  **Tuition:** $9,000/year (in-state), $37,000/year (out-of-state)  |  **Best for:** Students seeking **low in-state tuition** and **strong rural health training**

The **University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Nursing** enrolls about **400 BSN students** and offers a **traditional BSN** and an **accelerated BSN**. UNC's **NCLEX-RN pass rate** is **91%**, and its **clinical partnerships** with **UNC Medical Center** and **rural health clinics** across the state provide **diverse experiences**. The school's **simulation lab** includes **high-fidelity mannequins** and **virtual reality** for **critical care training**. UNC's **focus on rural health** and **health disparities** is a unique strength. In-state tuition is among the **lowest** in the top tier. The **student-faculty ratio** is **10:1**, and job placement is near **92%** . The **Chapel Hill campus** offers a **vibrant college town** atmosphere.

## 8. University of Illinois Chicago College of Nursing

![Top 10 Nursing Schools for BSN in 2027 — 8. University of Illinois Chicago](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/high%20quality%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20University%20of%20Illinois%20Chicago%20College%20of%20Nursing%20building%2C%20realistic%20magazine%20style%2C%20warm%20light%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=01234)

**Type:** Public  |  **Tuition:** $14,000/year (in-state), $30,000/year (out-of-state)  |  **Best for:** Students seeking **urban clinical exposure** and **diverse patient populations** in **Chicago**

The **University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) College of Nursing** enrolls about **500 BSN students** and is one of the **largest nursing schools** in the Midwest. UIC's **NCLEX-RN pass rate** is **90%**, and its **clinical partnerships** with **UI Health** and **Cook County Health** provide **rotations** in **Level I trauma centers** and **community clinics**. The school's **simulation center** features **virtual reality** and **standardized patients** for **emergency and critical care training**. UIC's **urban location** in the **Illinois Medical District** offers **unparalleled clinical diversity**. In-state tuition is reasonable, and the school offers **generous scholarships** for **minority and first-generation students**. The **student-faculty ratio** is **10:1**, and job placement is near **91%** .

## 9. Ohio State University College of Nursing

![Top 10 Nursing Schools for BSN in 2027 — 9. Ohio State University](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/high%20quality%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20Ohio%20State%20University%20College%20of%20Nursing%20building%20in%20Columbus%2C%20realistic%20magazine%20style%2C%20warm%20light%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=11234)

**Type:** Public  |  **Tuition:** $12,000/year (in-state), $36,000/year (out-of-state)  |  **Best for:** Students seeking a **large research university** with **strong sports culture** and **clinical breadth**

The **Ohio State University College of Nursing** in Columbus enrolls about **600 BSN students** and offers a **traditional BSN**, an **accelerated BSN**, and a **BSN-to-PhD track**. Ohio State's **NCLEX-RN pass rate** is **90%**, and its **clinical partnerships** with **The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center** (a top-ranked hospital) provide **rotations** in **cardiology**, **oncology**, and **neuroscience**. The school's **simulation center** includes **virtual reality** and **high-fidelity mannequins** for **critical care training**. In-state tuition is a **good value**, and the **Columbus campus** offers a **vibrant city life**. The **student-faculty ratio** is **10:1**, and job placement is near **92%** . Ohio State's **Nursing Living Learning Community** is a draw for students seeking **peer support**.

## 10. Duke University School of Nursing

![Top 10 Nursing Schools for BSN in 2027 — 10. Duke University](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/high%20quality%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20Duke%20University%20School%20of%20Nursing%20building%20in%20Durham%2C%20realistic%20magazine%20style%2C%20warm%20light%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=12234)

**Type:** Private  |  **Tuition:** $58,000/year  |  **Best for:** Students seeking a **prestigious private education** with **strong research** and **global health focus**

**Duke University School of Nursing** in Durham, North Carolina, enrolls about **300 BSN students** and offers a **four-year BSN** and an **accelerated BSN**. Duke's **NCLEX-RN pass rate** is **93%**, and its **clinical partnerships** with **Duke University Hospital** (a top-ranked medical center) provide **rotations** in **cardiology**, **oncology**, and **pediatrics**. The school's **simulation center** features **virtual reality** and **standardized patients**, and its **global health program** sends students to **clinics in Africa and Latin America**. Tuition is high, but **generous financial aid** and **scholarships** (including the **Duke Nursing Scholarship**) can reduce costs significantly. The **student-faculty ratio** is **7:1**, and job placement is near **95%** . Duke's **Durham location** offers **southern charm** and **urban clinical exposure**.

## FAQ

**What is a BSN and why does it matter?**
A **Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)** is a four-year degree that prepares students for the **NCLEX-RN exam** and **registered nurse licensure**. Many hospitals now require a BSN for **career advancement** and **higher pay**.

**How do I choose between public and private nursing schools?**
**Public schools** offer **lower tuition** for in-state residents, while **private schools** often provide **more financial aid** and **smaller class sizes**. Consider your **budget**, **location**, and **career goals**.

**What is the NCLEX-RN pass rate and why is it important?**
The **NCLEX-RN pass rate** measures the percentage of first-time test takers who pass the **national licensure exam**. High pass rates indicate **strong program quality** and **student preparation**.

**Are accelerated BSN programs worth it?**
**Accelerated BSN programs** are **intensive** (12-18 months) and designed for **career changers** with a bachelor's degree in another field. They are **worth it** if you want a **fast track** to nursing, but require **full-time commitment**.

**What clinical experiences should I look for in a BSN program?**
Look for **programs with partnerships** with **top hospitals**, **Level I trauma centers**, and **community clinics**. **Simulation labs** with **virtual reality** and **high-fidelity mannequins** are also valuable.

**How can I afford nursing school?**
Explore **federal financial aid**, **state grants**, **scholarships** from nursing organizations (like the **American Nurses Association**), and **loan repayment programs** like the **Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program**.

## Sources

- American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN)
- National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN)
- U.S. News & World Report — Best Nursing Schools
- Niche — Best Colleges for Nursing
- College Scorecard (U.S. Department of Education)
- American Nurses Association
- Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program (HRSA)

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## Related on PULSE

- [Top 10 Best Nursing Schools for BSN Programs in 2027](/knowledge/sc0386)
- [Top 10 Bachelor's in Nursing Accelerated Programs in 2027](/knowledge/sc0500)
- [Top 10 Nursing Programs in Texas in 2027](/knowledge/sc0394)
- [Top 10 Universities for Nursing in 2027](/knowledge/sc0011)

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