Eldean WalterNursing is one of the most in-demand and respected professions in healthcare, and Arlington, along with nearby areas in Northern Virginia, offers several excellent nursing schools. These institutions provide high-quality education, state-of-the-art facilities, and valuable clinical training opportunities. Students can pursue programs ranging from Practical Nursing to advanced nursing degrees. The region’s schools attract both local and international students due to their strong academic reputation, high NCLEX pass rates, and close partnerships with hospitals and healthcare organizations.
Top 30 Nursing Schools in Arlington
1. Marymount University
Marymount University in Arlington offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral nursing programs with a strong emphasis on evidence-based practice and clinical skills. Students benefit from modern simulation labs, clinical placements in leading healthcare facilities, and faculty with extensive nursing experience. The university’s programs prepare graduates for high NCLEX pass rates and leadership roles in healthcare. Marymount fosters a supportive environment, promoting professional development, research opportunities, and community health initiatives. Graduates often find employment quickly in hospitals, clinics, and public health settings.
2. Chamberlain University – Arlington Campus
Chamberlain University’s Arlington campus provides a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program designed for hands-on learning and flexible study options. The program includes clinical experiences in diverse healthcare settings and access to advanced simulation equipment. Chamberlain offers support services such as tutoring, career counseling, and NCLEX preparation resources. Students can pursue RN-to-BSN options and accelerated tracks to graduate sooner. With a strong focus on practical skills, leadership, and patient-centered care, the Arlington campus helps students transition smoothly into professional nursing roles.
3. Saint Michael’s College of Allied Health
Located in nearby Alexandria, Saint Michael’s College of Allied Health offers Associate Degree in Nursing and Practical Nursing programs. The curriculum combines classroom theory, simulation training, and supervised clinical practice. Students are taught by experienced nurse educators who emphasize compassionate care and professional ethics. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention, while partnerships with healthcare providers give students real-world experience. Graduates are prepared for NCLEX success and careers in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities, often finding employment soon after completion.
4. Standard Healthcare Services College of Nursing
Based in Falls Church, Standard Healthcare Services offers Licensed Practical Nursing and LPN-to-RN bridge programs. The school focuses on developing clinical competence, critical thinking, and strong ethical values in nursing practice. Students receive training in well-equipped labs and gain experience through clinical placements in local hospitals and long-term care facilities. The program is structured to prepare graduates for licensure exams and entry-level nursing positions. Support services include tutoring, academic advising, and career planning to help students succeed professionally.
5. Stratford University – Alexandria Campus
Stratford University’s Alexandria campus offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program designed for students seeking both theoretical knowledge and clinical expertise. The curriculum includes courses in anatomy, pharmacology, nursing leadership, and community health. Students have access to simulation labs, experienced faculty, and clinical rotations in hospitals and clinics across the region. Stratford supports students with flexible schedules and career services, making it a practical choice for working adults and those transitioning from other healthcare roles into nursing.
6. Global Health College
Global Health College in Alexandria offers programs in Practical Nursing, Associate Degree in Nursing, and Nursing Assistant training. The college provides a supportive learning environment with small class sizes, hands-on lab work, and clinical placements in healthcare facilities. Its curriculum emphasizes patient safety, ethical practice, and cultural competence. Students are encouraged to develop strong communication skills alongside their clinical abilities. Graduates are well-prepared for licensure exams and often secure positions in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and home healthcare agencies.
7. George Mason University – School of Nursing
George Mason University in Fairfax offers undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral nursing programs that combine academic excellence with clinical experience. The BSN program includes state-of-the-art simulation training and partnerships with top healthcare facilities in Northern Virginia. Graduate programs focus on advanced practice, leadership, and research. Faculty members are active in clinical work and nursing scholarship. The school promotes diversity, innovation, and evidence-based practice, preparing graduates for roles in direct patient care, healthcare administration, and academic teaching positions.
8. Northern Virginia Community College – Medical Education Campus
Northern Virginia Community College’s Medical Education Campus in Springfield offers an Associate Degree in Nursing and a Practical Nursing program. Students gain foundational nursing knowledge, clinical experience, and preparation for the NCLEX exam. The campus features modern labs, simulation rooms, and experienced faculty committed to student success. Affordable tuition and transfer agreements with universities make it an excellent option for those planning to pursue a BSN. Clinical partnerships with local hospitals provide real-world exposure and skill development.
9. Sentara College of Health Sciences
Located in nearby Chesapeake but serving students from Arlington and Northern Virginia through online and hybrid programs, Sentara College of Health Sciences offers BSN and RN-to-BSN pathways. The school is affiliated with the Sentara Healthcare system, giving students access to high-quality clinical training. Programs emphasize critical thinking, patient-centered care, and interprofessional collaboration. Students benefit from small class sizes, supportive faculty, and advanced simulation technology. Graduates are prepared for success in various healthcare environments, including hospitals, clinics, and community health.
10. Virginia Commonwealth University – School of Nursing
Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond is accessible to Northern Virginia students and offers BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, and doctoral programs. The school is known for its strong research focus, high NCLEX pass rates, and commitment to improving community health. Clinical training takes place in diverse settings, from large hospitals to community clinics. Students benefit from expert faculty, mentorship programs, and opportunities for international nursing experiences. The curriculum fosters leadership skills, evidence-based practice, and adaptability in complex healthcare environments.
11. University of Virginia School of Nursing
The University of Virginia in Charlottesville offers a range of nursing programs from BSN to PhD. The school is nationally recognized for academic excellence, innovation in clinical training, and research in patient care. Students have access to advanced simulation facilities and diverse clinical placements in hospitals and community health settings. UVA emphasizes leadership, ethical practice, and evidence-based care. Graduates are well-prepared for professional practice, advanced roles, and research careers, often achieving high NCLEX pass rates and strong job placement.
12. Shenandoah University Eleanor Wade Custer School of Nursing
Located in Winchester, Shenandoah University offers BSN, MSN, and doctoral programs designed to meet the needs of traditional, transfer, and second-degree students. The nursing school blends classroom learning, clinical practice, and simulation training. Students benefit from faculty mentorship, small class sizes, and hands-on experiences in regional hospitals. Programs emphasize patient advocacy, cultural competence, and interprofessional collaboration. Graduates are prepared for diverse nursing careers in acute care, community health, and advanced practice, with many achieving strong licensure exam performance.
13. James Madison University School of Nursing
James Madison University in Harrisonburg provides BSN, MSN, and doctoral nursing programs that focus on professional excellence and leadership. The BSN program includes extensive clinical rotations, simulation lab work, and research opportunities. Faculty members are experienced practitioners and scholars who guide students through evidence-based practice and patient-centered care. The school promotes community engagement and public health awareness, preparing graduates for success in multiple healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and government health organizations, with consistently high NCLEX pass rates.
14. Radford University School of Nursing
Radford University offers nursing programs at the BSN, MSN, and doctoral levels, with an emphasis on rural health and community-based practice. Students receive clinical training in hospitals, clinics, and underserved areas, gaining valuable experience across various populations. The curriculum integrates leadership development, research, and advanced clinical skills. Radford supports students through faculty mentoring, simulation technology, and academic resources. Graduates are equipped for roles in bedside care, administration, education, and advanced practice nursing, contributing to healthcare improvement across Virginia.
15. Liberty University School of Nursing
Liberty University in Lynchburg provides BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, and doctoral nursing programs, including online options for working professionals. The curriculum emphasizes Christian values, ethical leadership, and evidence-based care. Students gain hands-on experience in simulation labs and clinical sites across Virginia. Faculty are experienced nurses committed to mentoring students and fostering professional growth. Liberty’s nursing programs prepare graduates for service in a variety of healthcare environments, from hospitals to mission work, with strong licensure exam outcomes and career placement.
16. Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing
Located in Richmond, Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing specializes in Bachelor of Science in Nursing education. The program is affiliated with the Bon Secours Health System, offering students immersive clinical experiences in well-respected hospitals. The curriculum balances classroom instruction, simulation training, and hands-on patient care. Faculty provide close mentorship, helping students build confidence and competence. The college emphasizes compassionate care, professionalism, and community service, ensuring graduates are prepared for successful nursing careers with strong clinical and ethical foundations.
17. Hampton University School of Nursing
Hampton University offers BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, and PhD programs that blend academic rigor with practical training. Known for its historical significance and commitment to diversity, Hampton’s nursing school provides students with modern simulation labs, experienced faculty, and clinical placements in top healthcare facilities. Programs emphasize leadership, cultural competence, and research. Graduates enter the workforce equipped to deliver safe, effective, and compassionate care in a variety of settings, including hospitals, community health centers, and educational institutions.
18. Old Dominion University School of Nursing
Old Dominion University in Norfolk offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral nursing programs, including online and hybrid options. The curriculum integrates leadership, technology, and evidence-based practice, preparing students for modern healthcare challenges. Students gain clinical experience through partnerships with hospitals, clinics, and community agencies. ODU’s faculty are active in research and clinical work, ensuring students receive current, relevant education. Graduates are prepared for diverse roles in nursing, including advanced practice, administration, and academic positions.
19. South University – Richmond Campus
South University’s Richmond campus offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program designed to prepare students for entry-level nursing roles. The program combines classroom learning with simulation training and clinical experiences in local healthcare facilities. Faculty focus on developing students’ critical thinking, communication, and clinical skills. The curriculum emphasizes patient safety, teamwork, and ethical practice. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam and pursue nursing positions in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care environments.
20. Eastern Mennonite University School of Nursing
Eastern Mennonite University in Harrisonburg provides BSN, RN-to-BSN, and MSN programs with a focus on compassionate care, cultural awareness, and community health. The school integrates faith-based values into nursing education while maintaining high academic standards. Students gain experience in clinical settings, simulation labs, and community outreach projects. Faculty provide individualized guidance to support academic and professional success. Graduates are prepared for careers in a variety of healthcare settings, with strong NCLEX pass rates and commitment to service.
21. Bryant & Stratton College – Virginia Beach Campus
Bryant & Stratton College offers an Associate Degree in Nursing program designed to prepare students for entry-level registered nurse positions. The curriculum blends classroom theory, skills lab practice, and clinical rotations in local healthcare facilities. Students develop strong foundations in patient care, critical thinking, and communication. Support services such as tutoring and career counseling help ensure success. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam and enter the nursing workforce in hospitals, clinics, and community health organizations.
22. Virginia State University Department of Nursing
Virginia State University in Petersburg offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program focused on evidence-based practice, leadership, and community health. Students receive clinical training in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and public health agencies. The program emphasizes cultural competence and professional ethics. Faculty guide students in developing clinical judgment and teamwork skills. Graduates are prepared for licensure and employment in diverse healthcare settings, as well as advanced study in nursing and related healthcare fields.
23. Tidewater Community College – Nursing Program
Tidewater Community College offers an Associate Degree in Nursing program that provides a strong foundation for students pursuing RN licensure. The program combines classroom instruction, lab simulations, and supervised clinical experiences in local hospitals and clinics. Faculty are experienced nurses committed to mentoring students. Affordable tuition and transfer agreements with universities make it a practical choice for those seeking further education. Graduates are prepared for entry-level nursing positions and continued academic advancement in the nursing profession.
24. Norfolk State University School of Nursing
Norfolk State University offers BSN and RN-to-BSN programs designed to prepare students for careers in diverse healthcare environments. The curriculum includes courses in anatomy, pharmacology, nursing leadership, and community health, supported by hands-on clinical experiences. Faculty emphasize professionalism, cultural sensitivity, and patient-centered care. The program’s structure allows for both traditional and nontraditional students to succeed. Graduates are well-equipped for nursing roles in hospitals, public health, and educational settings, with opportunities for further specialization and advanced practice.
25. Paul D. Camp Community College Nursing Program
Paul D. Camp Community College offers a Practical Nursing program and an Associate Degree in Nursing pathway for students aiming to become registered nurses. The programs feature classroom learning, laboratory practice, and clinical rotations in regional healthcare facilities. Faculty provide personalized instruction and mentorship to support student success. The curriculum focuses on patient safety, ethical practice, and effective communication. Graduates are prepared for the NCLEX exams and entry-level positions in hospitals, long-term care, and community health environments.
26. Dabney S. Lancaster Community College – Nursing Program
Dabney S. Lancaster Community College provides nursing education through Practical Nursing and Associate Degree in Nursing programs. Students receive training in modern simulation labs and gain experience in local hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. The program emphasizes evidence-based care, teamwork, and cultural competence. Faculty support students through tutoring and career guidance. Graduates are prepared for licensure exams and employment in a variety of healthcare settings, as well as further study toward a bachelor’s or advanced nursing degree.
27. Blue Ridge Community College Nursing Program
Blue Ridge Community College offers an Associate Degree in Nursing that combines academic instruction with clinical practice in hospitals and healthcare facilities across the region. The program emphasizes patient-centered care, communication skills, and critical thinking. Students learn in small classes with access to simulation technology and experienced faculty. Affordable tuition and transfer agreements with universities make it an attractive option for aspiring nurses. Graduates are ready for the NCLEX-RN exam and employment in various healthcare environments.
28. Germanna Community College Nursing Program
Germanna Community College offers a Practical Nursing certificate and an Associate Degree in Nursing program. Students benefit from simulation labs, small class sizes, and clinical rotations in hospitals, nursing homes, and community clinics. The curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for NCLEX exams and entry-level nursing practice. Faculty focus on building students’ confidence, competence, and ethical decision-making skills. Affordable tuition and flexible schedules make Germanna a convenient choice for those balancing work, family, and education.
29. Rappahannock Community College Nursing Program
Rappahannock Community College provides nursing education through its Associate Degree in Nursing and Practical Nursing programs. Students engage in classroom instruction, simulation exercises, and clinical experiences in regional healthcare facilities. The program promotes patient safety, effective communication, and professional responsibility. Faculty work closely with students to ensure academic success and readiness for licensure exams. Graduates are prepared for employment in hospitals, long-term care, and other healthcare environments, as well as for pursuing higher nursing degrees.
30. Patrick & Henry Community College Nursing Program
Patrick & Henry Community College offers Practical Nursing and Associate Degree in Nursing programs designed to meet the needs of students entering the healthcare field. Training includes classroom study, skills labs, and clinical rotations in local medical facilities. Faculty emphasize compassionate care, teamwork, and critical thinking. The programs prepare students for licensure exams and entry-level nursing roles. Affordable tuition and supportive learning resources make the college a strong choice for those seeking a career in nursing.
Requirements For These Top Nursing Schools in Arlington
- High school diploma or equivalent (GED)
- Minimum GPA requirement, often around 2.5 to 3.0
- Completion of prerequisite courses such as biology, chemistry, and anatomy
- Passing scores on entrance exams like TEAS or HESI
- Background check and drug screening
- Proof of immunizations and health clearance
Cost of These Top Nursing Schools in Arlington
- Marymount University: approximately 35,000 to 40,000 USD per year for tuition
- Chamberlain University Arlington: around 675 USD per credit hour
- Saint Michael’s College of Allied Health: about 15,000 to 18,000 USD for the program
- Standard Healthcare Services College of Nursing: roughly 12,000 to 16,000 USD for LPN-to-RN programs
- Stratford University Alexandria: approximately 370 USD per credit hour
- Global Health College: around 14,000 to 17,000 USD for ADN program
- Northern Virginia Community College: about 180 to 370 USD per credit hour depending on residency
Application Process For These Top Nursing Schools in Arlington
- Complete an online or paper application form
- Submit official high school or college transcripts
- Provide entrance exam scores if required
- Include letters of recommendation and a personal statement
- Attend an admission interview or orientation session if applicable.
Conclusion
Nursing schools in Arlington and nearby areas offer students a wide range of pathways to enter or advance in the nursing profession. With programs designed for different educational backgrounds and career goals, these schools combine rigorous academics with practical clinical experience. Applicants should carefully review requirements, costs, and application steps to select the program that best matches their needs. By completing a nursing program in this region, graduates position themselves for successful, rewarding careers in healthcare.