Virginia Nursing Colleges & Licenses | VA
Nursing Colleges Search
When you click on a sponsoring school or program, or fill out a form to request information from a sponsoring school, we may earn a commission. View our advertising disclosure for more details.
Nursing is more than just a profession; it’s a calling that demands dedication, empathy, and skill. In Virginia, the demand for skilled nurses continues to grow, making it an ideal location for those seeking to begin or advance their nursing careers. With an impressive range of nursing colleges and programs, Virginia offers aspiring nurses the opportunity to excel in this essential field.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job growth rate for registered nurses in the United States is projected to increase by 6 percent between 2021 and 2023, slightly faster than the national average for all occupations (5 percent). By comparison, nurse practitioners far exceed the national average, with a 40 percent growth rate in the coming decade. Furthermore, the BLS reports that the annual mean wage for registered nurses in Virginia is similar to the national average of $89,010 (BLS May 2022). These statistics highlight the promising career prospects for nurses within the state, emphasizing the importance of quality nursing education.
Virginia has several well-established nursing schools, each offering unique programs catering to various educational needs. For instance, Radford University’s Jefferson College of Health Sciences opened in 1917 and provides comprehensive on-campus nursing programs that foster a strong foundation in theory and practical experience. Eastern Mennonite University’s nursing program is renowned for its emphasis on holistic care and community engagement, while George Mason University‘s nursing programs offer diverse options, including accelerated and traditional bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degrees.
In addition to on-campus programs, Virginia also boasts a wide array of online and hybrid nursing education options. These flexible programs cater to working professionals, parents, and those who cannot attend in-person classes. Such offerings allow aspiring nurses to balance their personal and professional lives while pursuing their passion for healthcare.
In short, Virginia presents a wealth of opportunities for individuals looking to enter or advance in the nursing profession. With many top-notch nursing colleges, licenses, and programs, prospective Virginia nurses can confidently embark on a rewarding and fulfilling career path.
Accredited Undergraduate Nursing Programs in Virginia
Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing (Online)
The Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing (BSMCON) offers a unique RN-to-BSN online program designed to accommodate the needs of working nurses seeking career advancement. The program builds upon students’ nursing knowledge and experience while fostering critical thinking, leadership skills, and evidence-based practice.
With a curriculum tailored to cover diverse topics such as community health, informatics, and nursing research, BSMCON’s program ensures that students receive a comprehensive education. The fully online format allows for flexibility, enabling nursing professionals to balance their work schedules and personal commitments while pursuing their bachelor of science in nursing.
- Location: Richmond, VA
- Duration: Two to four years
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Tuition: $31,900 per year
Fortis College (Hybrid)
Fortis College’s Norfolk campus provides a comprehensive hybrid associate degree in nursing (ADN) program for aspiring nurses seeking a solid foundation in the nursing field. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, clinical experiences, and classroom instruction to prepare students for the challenging yet rewarding world of nursing.
With a curriculum that covers essential nursing skills and knowledge, such as patient care, health assessment, and pharmacology, Fortis College’s Norfolk ADN program is designed to equip students with the necessary tools to excel in their careers. Approximately 50 percent of the courses are online, with the remaining courses and clinicals in person.
Upon completing the program, graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN examination and pursue entry-level positions as registered nurses in various healthcare settings. Fortis College’s commitment to quality education and student support ensures that its ADN program is an excellent starting point for those looking to make a difference in the lives of patients and their families.
- Location: Norfolk, VA
- Duration: 24 months
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Tuition: Contact the school for tuition information
Standard Healthcare Services, Inc. – College of Nursing (On-campus)
Standard College of Nursing offers a unique LPN-to-RN transition program to help licensed practical nurses advance their careers and become registered nurses. This 70-credit program is certified to operate by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) and is approved by the Virginia Board of Nursing (VBON), ensuring that students receive a high-quality education that meets industry standards.
With a curriculum emphasizing critical thinking, evidence-based practice, and clinical decision-making, the LPN-to-RN transition program at Standard Healthcare Services, Inc. prepares students for dynamic healthcare environments. The program also includes hands-on clinical experiences and classroom instruction, which help students develop a comprehensive understanding of nursing concepts and skills. Upon completing the program, graduates are well-equipped to take the NCLEX-RN examination and excel as registered nurses.
- Location: Falls Church, VA
- Duration: 24 months
- Accreditation: Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES)
- Tuition: $449.50 per credit
Virginia Commonwealth University – School of Nursing (Hybrid)
Virginia Commonwealth University offers three BSN programs, including an exceptional RN-to-BSN program designed for registered nurses who have completed an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a diploma in nursing and wish to further their education by obtaining a BSN degree. The RN-to-BSN program at VCU stands out due to its hybrid format, combining online coursework with on-campus experiences to accommodate the busy schedules of working professionals.
Admission to the RN-to-BSN program at Virginia Commonwealth University requires applicants to fulfill specific criteria. Prospective students must hold an active and unencumbered Registered Nurse (RN) license and have completed an ADN or a diploma in nursing from an accredited institution.
Additionally, applicants should submit their official transcripts, a personal statement, and a resume or CV as part of the application process. The hybrid nature of the program enables students to benefit from the flexibility of online learning while still gaining valuable hands-on experience through on-campus lab sessions and other interactive activities.
- Location: Richmond, VA
- Duration: Two to three years
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Tuition: $9,124.50 per semester (residents); $20,416.50 per semester (non-residents)
University of Virginia – School of Nursing (Hybrid)
The RN-to-BSN hybrid program at the University of Virginia is an excellent choice for nursing professionals who want to advance their careers while balancing their work and personal lives. The program’s flexible format, comprehensive curriculum, and supportive learning environment make it an ideal choice for those seeking a high-quality nursing education. Except for the once-per-month on-campus class and clinicals, all coursework is online.
To be eligible for the RN-to-BSN hybrid program, applicants must hold an active and unencumbered registered nurse (RN) license and have completed an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a diploma in nursing from an accredited institution. Prospective students must submit their official transcripts, a personal statement, and a resume or CV as part of the application process.
- Location: Charlottesville, VA
- Duration: 24 months
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $583 per credit (residents); $1,810 per credit (non-residents)
Accredited Graduate Nursing Programs in Virginia
Eastern Mennonite University – School of Nursing (Online)
Eastern Mennonite University’s (EMU) School of Nursing offers a variety of graduate and doctoral degree and certificate programs in nursing designed to cater to the evolving needs of nursing professionals seeking career advancement and specialization. The master of science in nursing (MSN) program provides students with focused tracks such as leadership and management, allowing them to tailor their education to their career goals. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, evidence-based practice, leadership development, and interdisciplinary collaboration, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to excel in various healthcare settings.
EMU also offers a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) program focusing on advanced clinical practice, healthcare policy, and systems leadership. This program prepares graduates to excel as nurse leaders, driving innovation and improving patient care outcomes in diverse healthcare environments. With a commitment to excellence in nursing education and a supportive learning environment rooted in the university’s core values, Eastern Mennonite University’s graduate and doctoral nursing programs equip graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to make meaningful contributions to the healthcare community and promote holistic patient care.
- Location: Harrisonburg, VA
- Duration: 1-5 years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $620 per credit hour (MSN); $844 per credit hour (DNP)
George Mason University – School of Nursing (Hybrid)
George Mason University’s School of Nursing offers a diverse range of graduate nursing programs designed to meet the needs of nursing professionals seeking career advancement and specialization. These programs include master of science in nursing (MSN), doctor of nursing practice (DNP), and post-master’s certificate options, providing students with a comprehensive educational experience tailored to their career goals.
The MSN program offers specialized tracks such as family nurse practitioner, adult gerontology nurse practitioner, and nurse educator, emphasizing critical thinking, evidence-based practice, leadership, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
The DNP program focuses on advanced clinical practice, healthcare policy, and systems leadership, preparing graduates to excel as nurse leaders and drive innovation in various healthcare settings. The post-master’s certificate programs also offer opportunities for nurses with an MSN degree to gain additional expertise in nursing education or other specialized practice areas.
- Location: Fairfax, VA
- Duration: One to five years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $766.45 per credit (residents); $1,681 per credit (non-residents)
Hampton University – School of Nursing (On-campus)
Hampton University’s School of Nursing offers advanced nursing programs, including master of science in nursing (MSN) and doctor of philosophy (PhD) degrees, designed to cater to the diverse needs of nursing professionals seeking career growth and academic excellence.
The MSN program provides students with specialized tracks such as family nurse practitioner, nurse administration, and nurse education, allowing them to focus on their areas of interest and expertise. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, evidence-based practice, leadership development, and interdisciplinary collaboration, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to excel in various healthcare settings.
On the other hand, the PhD program focuses on developing nurse scholars and researchers who contribute to advancing nursing science and knowledge. With an emphasis on research methodology, theory development, and health policy, the PhD program prepares graduates to make significant contributions to the nursing discipline through rigorous research and scholarly work.
- Location: Hampton, VA
- Duration: Two to five years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $665 per credit hour
Liberty University – School of Nursing (Hybrid)
Liberty University’s School of Nursing offers diverse graduate nursing programs to cater to nursing professionals seeking career advancement and specialization. These programs include master of science in nursing (MSN), doctor of nursing practice (DNP), and post-master’s certificate options, providing students with a comprehensive educational experience tailored to their career goals.
The MSN program offers specialized tracks such as nurse practitioner, nurse educator, and nursing administration, emphasizing critical thinking, evidence-based practice, leadership, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The curriculum is grounded in Christian values and ethical principles, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to excel in various healthcare settings with a holistic approach to patient care.
The DNP program focuses on advanced clinical practice, healthcare policy, and systems leadership, preparing graduates to excel as nurse leaders and drive innovation in diverse healthcare environments. Additionally, the post-master’s certificate programs offer opportunities for nurses, and the online PhD in nursing lets nurses gain further expertise in nursing education.
- Location: Lynchburg, VA
- Duration: One to five years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $615 per credit (MSN); $1,200 per credit (post-master’s certificate and DNP)
Old Dominion University – School of Nursing (Hybrid)
Old Dominion University’s (ODU) School of Nursing offers a range of advanced nursing programs, including master of science in nursing (MSN), doctor of nursing practice (DNP), and post-master’s certificate programs, designed to meet the diverse needs of nursing professionals seeking career advancement and specialization.
The MSN program provides students with specialized tracks such as nurse practitioner, nurse midwifery, clinical nurse specialist, and nurse administrator, allowing them to tailor their education according to their career goals. The DNP program emphasizes evidence-based practice, leadership, health policy, and systems thinking, preparing graduates to excel as nurse leaders and advanced clinicians in various healthcare settings.
The post-master’s certificate programs also offer nurses with an MSN degree opportunities to gain additional expertise in areas like nurse education or other specialized practice areas. ODU’s commitment to excellence in nursing education and its supportive learning environment ensure that graduates from these programs are well-equipped to contribute meaningfully to the healthcare community and impact patient care.
- Location: Norfolk, VA
- Duration: One to five years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $599 per credit (residents); $1,439 per credit (non-residents)
Radford University – School of Nursing (On-campus)
Radford University’s School of Nursing offers a range of advanced nursing programs, including master of science in nursing (MSN), doctor of nursing practice (DNP), and post-master’s certificate programs, designed to cater to the diverse needs of nursing professionals seeking career growth. The MSN program focuses on specialized tracks such as family nurse practitioner, psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, and nurse administration, allowing students to tailor their education to their career goals.
The DNP program emphasizes evidence-based practice, leadership, and health policy, preparing graduates to excel as nurse leaders and advanced clinicians in various healthcare settings. The post-master’s certificate programs also offer nurses with an MSN degree opportunities to gain additional expertise in areas like nurse education or other specialized practice areas.
- Location: Radford, VA
- Duration: One to five years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $538 per credit (residents); $1,050 per credit (non-residents)
Sentara College of Health Sciences (Hybrid)
Sentara College of Health Sciences offers an innovative master of science in nursing (MSN) program for professionals seeking to advance their careers and specialize in specific practice areas. The program’s primary focus is on the clinical nurse leader (CNL) track, which equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel as leaders in diverse healthcare settings.
The MSN curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, evidence-based practice, leadership development, and interdisciplinary collaboration, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of today’s healthcare environment.
With a combination of online coursework and clinical practicum experiences, Sentara College’s MSN program provides a flexible and comprehensive learning experience that accommodates the needs of working nurses. Graduates from this program are poised to significantly contribute to patient care, quality improvement, and healthcare innovation as they step into advanced clinical and leadership roles.
- Location: Chesapeake, VA
- Duration: 24 months
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $556 per credit
Shenandoah University – Eleanor Wade Custer School of Nursing (hybrid)
Shenandoah University’s Eleanor Wade Custer School of Nursing offers a comprehensive master of science in nursing (MSN) program and graduate certificate options for nursing professionals seeking career advancement and specialization.
The MSN program provides students with focused tracks such as family nurse practitioner, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, and nurse-midwifery, enabling them to tailor their education to align with their specific career goals. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, evidence-based practice, leadership, and interdisciplinary collaboration, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to excel in various healthcare settings.
In addition to the MSN program, Shenandoah University offers graduate certificates in specialized areas such as nursing education and nursing leadership & management, providing opportunities for nurses with an MSN degree to gain additional expertise and advance their careers. With a commitment to excellence in nursing education and a supportive learning environment, Shenandoah University’s nursing programs equip graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to make meaningful contributions to the healthcare community and improve patient care.
- Location: Winchester, VA
- Duration: One to five years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE); Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME)
- Tuition: $968 per credit
Virginia Commonwealth University – School of Nursing (On-campus)
Virginia Commonwealth University’s (VCU) School of Nursing offers a comprehensive range of advanced nursing programs, including a master of science in nursing (MSN), doctor of nursing practice (DNP), and doctor of philosophy (PhD) in nursing, designed to cater to the diverse needs of nursing professionals seeking career growth and academic excellence.
The MSN program provides students with specialized tracks such as nursing administration and leadership, nurse practitioner, and clinical nurse specialist, allowing them to focus on their areas of interest and expertise. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, evidence-based practice, leadership development, and interdisciplinary collaboration, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to excel in various healthcare settings.
The DNP program focuses on advanced clinical practice, healthcare policy, and systems leadership, preparing graduates to excel as nurse leaders and drive innovation in diverse healthcare environments.
Meanwhile, the PhD program aims to develop nurse scholars and researchers who contribute to advancing nursing science and knowledge through rigorous research and scholarly work. With an emphasis on research methodology, theory development, and health policy, the PhD program prepares graduates to contribute to the nursing discipline significantly.
- Location: Richmond, VA
- Duration: One to five years
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Tuition: $6,702 per semester (residents); $13,374 per semester (non-residents)
University of Virginia – School of Nursing (Hybrid)
The University of Virginia School of Nursing offers many graduate nursing programs to meet the diverse needs of nursing professionals seeking career advancement and specialization. These programs include a master of science in nursing (MSN), doctor of nursing practice (DNP), and doctor of philosophy (PhD) in nursing, providing students with a comprehensive educational experience tailored to their specific career goals.
The MSN program offers specialized tracks such as family nurse practitioner, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, pediatric nurse practitioner, and adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner, emphasizing critical thinking, evidence-based practice, leadership, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
The DNP program focuses on advanced clinical practice, healthcare policy, and systems leadership, preparing graduates to excel as nurse leaders and drive innovation in various healthcare settings. Meanwhile, the PhD program aims to develop nurse scholars and researchers who contribute to advancing nursing science and knowledge through rigorous research and scholarly work, emphasizing research methodology, theory development, and health policy.
- Location: Charlottesville, VA
- Duration: One to five years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $24,196 per year (residents); $37,970 per year (non-residents)
Nursing School Accreditation
Accreditation is a crucial process that ensures that nurses possess up-to-date knowledge, proficiency, and competence that align with industry standards. Accreditation promotes security and peace of mind for all stakeholders, including future nurses, training institutions, employers, support staff, and patients.
Students must complete a nursing program accredited by institutional or programmatic accrediting bodies to practice nursing legally.
There are two categories of nursing school accreditation: institutional and programmatic.
The leading organizations that offer programmatic accreditation for nursing schools are the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
Institutional accreditation is the way to go when it comes to determining the overall quality of a college or university. In the US, the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), associated with the US Department of Education, recognizes seven regional organizations that review and grant institutional accreditation status. When assessing a university’s standards, these independent bodies consider academic integrity, financial stability, faculty expertise, and degrees awarded.
Lastly, it is essential to consider state authorization status when researching online and hybrid programs, especially for those seeking nursing degrees that require state licensing. The National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA) regulates this, so make sure your state approves your educational institution or agency before applying to any online or hybrid nursing programs. This information is necessary to avoid expensive challenges during state licensing tests or even the inability to receive credentials.
How Much Do Nurses Make in Virginia?
Nurses with BSN degrees and higher in Virginia earn above the national average for all occupations of $61,900 annually (BLS May 2022). This is convenient for nurses living and working in Virginia, the 33rd most affordable state according to the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC) in 2023.
Below are tables comparing national salary data for nurses and salaries for nurses working in Virginia from the Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (BLS May 2022)—the latest data available as of August 2023.
Licensed Practical Nurse Salaries
| United States | Virginia | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 632,020 | 18,490 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $55,860 | $52,790 |
| 10th percentile | $40,490 | $39,640 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $54,620 | $51,150 |
| 90th percentile | $72,650 | $63,910 |
Registered Nurse Salaries
| United States | Virginia | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 3,072,700 | 69,510 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $89,010 | $81,860 |
| 10th percentile | $61,250 | $61,970 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $81,220 | $79,700 |
| 90th percentile | $129,400 | $104,410 |
Nurse Anesthetist Salaries
| United States | Virginia | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 46,540 | 530 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $205,770 | $215,530 |
| 10th percentile | $143,870 | $173,740 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $203,090 | $181,690 |
| 90th percentile | >$239,200 per year | >$239,200 per year |
Nurse Midwife Salaries
| United States | Virginia | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 7,950 | Unknown |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $122,450 | $106,790 |
| 10th percentile | $77,510 | $80,460 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $120,880 | $97,390 |
| 90th percentile | $171,230 | $138,080 |
Nurse Practitioner Salaries
| United States | Virginia | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 258,230 | 7,040 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $124,680 | $116,980 |
| 10th percentile | $87,340 | $89,340 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $121,610 | $110,860 |
| 90th percentile | $165,240 | $141,490 |
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Licensure in Virginia
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia Department of Health ProfessionsVirginia Department of Health Professions Board of Nursing |
Virginia requires applicants for an LPN license to:
|
Virginia LPNs must renew their licenses every two years by submitting an application and paying the $120 renewal fee. They must also complete one of the following continued competency requirements:
|
Registered Nurse (RN) Licensure in Virginia
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia Department of Health ProfessionsVirginia Department of Health Professions Board of Nursing |
Virginia requires applicants for an RN license to:
|
RN in Virginia must renew their licenses every two years by submitting an application, paying the $140 renewal fee, and completing one of the following continue competency requirements:
|
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Licensure in Virginia
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
In Virginia, CNS practice as a category of a certified nurse practitioner (CNP) license. To be eligible for a CNP license in Virginia, the following is required:
|
License renewals for CNPs in Virginia are required biennially. The renewal fee is $80 and CNPs must either have a current national certification or complete 40 hours of continuing education. |
Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) Licensure in Virginia
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
In Virginia, CNM license requirements include:
|
License renewals for CNMs in Virginia are required biennially. The renewal fee is $80, and CNMs must either have a current national certification or complete 40 hours of continuing education. |
Nurse Practitioner (NP) Licensure in Virginia
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
To be eligible for a Certified Nurse Practitioner (CNP) license in Virginia, the following is required:
|
License renewals for CNP in Virginia are required biennially. The renewal fee is $80 and CNPs must either have a current national certification or complete 40 hours of continuing education. |
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CNRA) Licensure in Virginia
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
In Virginia, CRNAs practice as a category of a certified nurse practitioner (CNP) license. To be eligible for an CNP license in Virginia, the following is required:
|
License renewals for CNPs in Virginia are required biennially. The renewal fee is $80, and CNPs must either have a current national certification or complete 40 hours of continuing education. |
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.