Vermont Nursing Colleges & Licenses
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“My advice for anyone considering a career in nursing is to seek real-life experience first. This step is crucial in ensuring that nursing is truly your calling. I’ve observed that passionate nurses provide the highest quality care to their patients, significantly impacting their recovery and well-being.”
Angela Henry, University of Vermont BSN Graduate
Vermont has not been immune to the issues plaguing the nursing workforce throughout the nation. The office of US Senator Bernie Sanders provides a concise but compelling overview of the situation. There is a need for more nurses across most healthcare facilities and providers in Vermont. Whereas the state is estimated to have around 15,000 nurses, a truly robust nursing workforce for Vermont would require approximately 25,000 nurses. Significant investment in nursing education, hiring and sustainable nursing careers post-placement is necessary to address this critical situation.
There are numerous reasons for the current crisis. The Covid-19 pandemic exacerbated an already challenging situation. Pre-existing contributing factors to the shortage include insufficient nursing educators in nursing programs, poor compensation and benefits for existing nurses, and a low number of hands-on training positions in medical facilities throughout the state.
A proposal to alleviate the crisis that has been advocated in many parts of the country, including Vermont, is to incentivize nursing professionals to enter the profession and remain in it. One way to incentivize nursing professionals is via improved financial compensation and student debt relief.
Despite the critical situation in Vermont and throughout the nation, there is still hope. The high demand for nursing professionals means new nurses will have ample opportunities to enter the profession. Nurses are more likely to succeed in their demands for better compensation, improved benefits, and other critical elements necessary for their profession to remain viable. Despite its small geography, Vermont has several good nursing education programs.
Read on to discover Vermont’s top undergraduate and graduate nursing programs, salary expectations, and licensing requirements for nursing careers in this state.
Meet the Expert: Angela Henry, BSN
Angela Henry, a distinguished trauma surgical intensive care and emergency department RN at Oregon Health Science University (OHSU) in Portland, Oregon, has been a vital asset to trauma care and emergency nursing since her career began in 2014. Her expertise and unwavering dedication were shaped significantly after earning a bachelor of science in nursing from the University of Vermont. This foundational experience at the University of Vermont Medical Center, where she honed her skills across various critical care units, set the stage for her to tackle complex challenges in her field.
Henry’s breadth of knowledge expanded as she worked as an emergency department travel nurse across several hospitals before taking on a pivotal role at OHSU, a major referral center. Beyond her clinical roles, she has dedicated over 7,000 hours to volunteering as an advanced emergency medical technician and participating in global health initiatives, such as Project Chacocente in Nicaragua. Holding prestigious certifications like TCRN, ACLS, and PALS, she exemplifies the pinnacle of professional development and excellence in nursing, profoundly impacting patient care and embodying the highest standards of her profession.
NursingColleges.com: How has graduating from a nursing program enhanced your career?
Henry: Graduating from the University of Vermont (UVM) significantly shaped my career and gave me unparalleled opportunities. The nursing school, along with UVM Rescue, fostered an environment that encouraged additional healthcare education beyond the standard curriculum and supported my involvement in extracurricular activities. This flexibility and encouragement allowed me to work as an EMT during my four years of nursing school, integrating EMT credits with my nursing studies and gaining hands-on experience that my professors valued highly. They particularly supported my practical approach to learning, which enhanced my patient care skills and confidence in my field.
Following my graduation, completing my clinicals at the UVM hospital, and establishing strong connections within the emergency department, I secured my first job there. Remarkably, this was a time when the department was newly opening its doors to new graduates through a year-long transition program, a testament to UVM’s profound impact on setting the foundations for my professional future.
Nursing Colleges.com: What is one piece of advice you would give to a prospective nursing student?
Henry: My advice for anyone considering a career in nursing is to seek real-life experience first. This step is crucial in ensuring that nursing is truly your calling. I’ve observed that passionate nurses provide the highest quality care to their patients, significantly impacting their recovery and well-being. Being an advocate for your patients requires a deep passion for your work. Thus, before committing to nursing school, I recommend exploring the field by gaining practical experience.
Whether it’s working as a medical assistant, a certified nursing assistant (CNA), or an emergency medical technician (EMT), such experiences can confirm your desire to pursue nursing. This hands-on approach will not only solidify your decision to apply to nursing school but also be invaluable in navigating the challenges of the program, given its rigorous nature.
Accredited Undergraduate Nursing Programs in Vermont
The University of Vermont offers a 124-credit bachelor of science in nursing degree program based upon knowledge from the behavioral, natural, and nursing sciences. The rigorous curriculum promotes the care of individuals but also emphasizes the importance of disease prevention. The training prepares students to care for both individuals and whole patient populations and develop respect and skill in caring for people of diverse backgrounds. UVM has also offered an online RN-BSN track for working nurses. This program is not currently taking applications. Prospective students are advised to check back in the future regarding this program’s status.
Students begin their clinical experience in their fourth semester (second semester of their sophomore year). A total of 594 hours of direct faculty-supervised clinical instruction is required to graduate. Third-year students gain experience in an acute care setting. Senior students do an immersion in public health through either domestic or faculty-led foreign travel education. Finally, in their final semester, students select a 126-hour clinical practicum in an area of interest.
- Location: Burlington, VT
- Duration: Four years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Vermont State University (Online and On-campus)
Vermont State University offers a bachelor of science in nursing degree program featuring two tracks. These are the traditional, four-year BSN program and the 1+1+2 program. The traditional program provides classroom instruction and hands-on learning experiences in both nursing simulation centers and at clinical affiliate sites throughout Vermont and in neighboring New Hampshire and New York. The 1+1+2 program is designed for working nursing professionals who need a flexible schedule to advance their education. In this program, students complete their practical nursing certificate in year one, their associate of science in nursing in their second year, and their online BSN degree in the remaining two years.
Vermont State University offers great clinical training experience opportunities via its partnership with many regional affiliates. Through these placement sites,, students can specialize in community health, long-term care, and acute care. Examples of respected local affiliates include Rutland Regional Medical, University of Vermont Medical Center, Southwestern Vermont Health Care, Vermont Department of Health, and many others.
- Location: Randolph Center, VT
- Duration: Four years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Norwich University operates its nursing program grounded on professional ideals of compassionate care, respect, integrity, and social justice. Regardless of the curriculum a student chooses, all programs are designed to align with current trends in topics such as population health, technology, and cultural diversity and inclusion. Through consistent attention to these trends, Norwich University prepares its students to work in a complex and dynamic healthcare industry.
Norwich University offers students a bachelor of science in nursing degree programs featuring three distinct tracks. These tracks are the traditional program, the accelerated BS program, and the online RN-to-BS program. All tracks are defined by their commitment to quality coursework and the use of current labs and technology. Laboratory infrastructure includes medium and high-fidelity simulation equipment and virtual reality simulation tools designed to enhance learning and confidence. Students practice their skills in various settings, including study abroad opportunities.
The accelerated track is geared towards those who have a previous degree and have completed the necessary prerequisites. Accelerated track students can typically complete the program in five consecutive semesters. Finally, the RN to BS program is designed for existing nurses with an unencumbered RN license issued either in the U.S. or a jurisdiction that is an associate member of the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.
- Location: Northfield, VT
- Duration: Five semesters to four years, depending on track
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Accredited Graduate Nursing Programs in Vermont
The University of Vermont offers an MSN program with two different track options. These are the MS in Nursing – Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) and the Direct Entry MS in Nursing tracks. Graduates of both tracks are eligible to take the Commission on Nurse Certification (CNC) Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) certification examination.
The MS-CNL program curriculum features coursework covering topics including advanced evidence-based practice, health care management, and models of care delivery. Students also complete at least 510 hours of clinical experience. The program features sufficient flexibility so students can work part-time while completing the curriculum.
The direct-entry MS option is not a stand-alone program but another pathway into the MS-CNL track. This option is designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree or higher in a non-nursing discipline. It generally takes approximately 3.5 years to complete. Completing the direct-entry program allows students to take the NCLEX exam in Vermont.
- Location: Burlington, VT
- Duration: Two to three-and-a-half years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Vermont State University (Online)
Vermont State University offers an online, six-semester master of science in nursing program designed to prepare graduates for nursing leadership and educator roles. The curriculum is presented as a series of eight-week modules. Students must complete a clinical training requirement to graduate. The clinical coordinator can assist in arranging placements. The clinical requirement may be completed at a variety of local placement sites. Students also have the option to fulfill this requirement with their existing place of employment possibly.
Students choose one of two tracks. These are the nurse educator track and the clinical nurse leader track. Students of both tracks must complete a total of 454 practicum hours. There is a slight difference in the number of indirect and direct hours required for each track. Prospective students should visit the school website for more details.
- Location: Randolph Center, VT
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Nursing School Accreditation
The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) approve nursing programs, ensuring that they meet certain standards and provide students with a quality education.
In Vermont, nursing program graduates obtain their license through the Vermont Board of Nursing (IBN). Applicants must have satisfactorily completed an appropriately accredited nursing program to be eligible for licensure. ACEN or CCNE will typically accredit accredited nursing programs within Vermont. Additional steps applicants will typically need to complete include passing a criminal background check, completing the Vermont Board of Nursing application for licensure, and passing the NCLEX exam. Requirements often differ by state.
How Much Do Nurses Make in Vermont?
These numbers represent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics from May 2023—the latest data available as of April 2024.
Licensed Practical Nurse Salaries
| United States | Vermont | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 630,250 | 1,230 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $60,790 | $65,170 |
| 10th percentile | $45,670 | $49,210 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $59,730 | $62,550 |
| 90th percentile | $77,870 | $80,130 |
Registered Nurse Salaries
| United States | Vermont | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 3,175,390 | 7,260 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $94,480 | $88,380 |
| 10th percentile | $63,720 | $65,390 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $86,070 | $81,900 |
| 90th percentile | $132,680 | $110,680 |
Nurse Anesthetist Salaries
| United States | Vermont | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 47,810 | 50 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $214,200 | $254,790 |
| 10th percentile | $139,980 | $206,290 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $212,650 | >$239,200 |
| 90th percentile | >$239,200 | >$239,200 |
Nurse Midwife Salaries
| United States | Vermont | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 6,960 | Data unavailable |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $131,570 | Data unavailable |
| 10th percentile | $87,320 | Data unavailable |
| 50th percentile (median) | $129,650 | Data unavailable |
| 90th percentile | $177,530 | Data unavailable |
Nurse Practitioner Salaries
| United States | Vermont | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 280,140 | 720 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $128,490 | $126,100 |
| 10th percentile | $94,530 | $103,940 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $126,260 | $123,920 |
| 90th percentile | $168,030 | $158,020 |
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Licensure in Vermont
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Vermont Secretary of State Office of Professional Regulation Nursing Section |
In Vermont, the requirements for an LPN license are:
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Vermont LPNs must do the following for license renewal:
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Registered Nurse (RN) Licensure in Vermont
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Vermont Secretary of State Office of Professional Regulation Nursing Section | The requirements for an RN license in Vermont are:
| A RN in the state of Vermont must do the following for renewal:
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Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Licensure in Vermont
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
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In Vermont, a CNS is licensed as an APRN and needs the following to be eligible for licensure:
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In order to renew an APRN license in Vermont, applicants must:
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Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) Licensure in Vermont
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
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In Vermont, a CNM is licensed as an APRN and need the following to be eligible for licensure:
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In order to renew an APRN license in Vermont, applicants must:
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Nurse Practitioner (NP) Licensure in Vermont
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
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In Vermont, an NP is licensed as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) and needs the following to be eligible for licensure:
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In order to renew an APRN license in Vermont, applicants must:
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Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CNRA) Licensure in Vermont
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
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In Vermont, a CRNA is licensed as an APRN and need the following to be eligible for licensure:
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In order to renew an APRN license in Vermont, applicants must:
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Bernd Geels
WriterBernd Geels is a Berlin, Germany-based freelance writer and artist. He holds an undergraduate degree in atmospheric science and two graduate degrees. He completed his most recent graduate degree in international environmental studies at the Monterey Institute of International Studies in 2011. He is interested in healthcare, climate change, marine conservation, indigenous science and refugee issues. You can reach him directly at [email protected].
Rachel Drummond, MEd
WriterAt NursingColleges.com, Rachel Drummond has applied her extensive experience in education and mindfulness to elucidate the importance of self-care for nursing students since 2022. Through her writings, she underscores the role of mental and physical well-being in fostering resilient and compassionate healthcare professionals.
Rachel is a writer, educator, and coach from Oregon. She has a master’s degree in education (MEd) and has over 15 years of experience teaching English, public speaking, and mindfulness to international audiences in the United States, Japan, and Spain. She writes about the mind-body benefits of contemplative movement practices like yoga on her blog, inviting people to prioritize their unique version of well-being and empowering everyone to live healthier and more balanced lives.