The Top Nursing Schools in Maryland

The Top Nursing Schools in Maryland

Maryland boasts a plethora of outstanding universities, with Johns Hopkins University standing out as one of the most esteemed institutions globally. Alongside this prestigious university, the state is home to numerous private and public institutions offering diverse nursing programs. Are you contemplating pursuing nursing studies in Maryland? Delve into the details of the finest nursing schools in the state, understand the process of acquiring a Maryland nursing license, and gain insights into nursing salaries through this comprehensive guide. Continue reading to uncover more about the journey to becoming a nurse in Maryland, or navigate directly to our compilation of the best nursing schools in Maryland or the top nurse practitioner programs in the state.

The Best Nursing Schools in Maryland

Selecting the right nursing program hinges on your background, experience, and career aspirations. Since accreditation plays a pivotal role in determining program quality and aligning with your career objectives, this guide exclusively features accredited programs.

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Our Methodology: Employing a data-driven approach, we rank the top nursing schools in Maryland, simplifying your search for a program that suits your needs. The methodology relies on key metrics we consider crucial for students, encompassing academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. Utilizing publicly accessible provisional datasets from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) informs the data for these schools. The information presented is current as of the publication date of this article, and program-specific details may vary.

Top Nursing Schools in Maryland

1. Johns Hopkins University

– Location: Baltimore, Maryland
– Duration: 4 years
– Format: Online + Campus

Johns Hopkins University, home to one of Maryland’s premier nursing schools, offers a comprehensive range of nursing programs. These encompass master’s-level programs, post-master’s certificates, and doctoral degrees. Specializations include organizational leadership, psychiatric mental health, nurse practice, nurse anesthesia, and nursing education. Additionally, Johns Hopkins students have the option to pursue a concurrent MBA.

– Programs: MSN, DNP, Ph.D. in nursing, and post-master’s certificates
– Campus: Baltimore, Maryland
– Type: Private
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
– Tuition: $52,300-$65,000 per year full-time MSN, $39,900-$50,760 doctorate, $21,480-$29,755 post-master’s certificate
– Admission Requirements: Prerequisite degree/coursework (varies by program), B- or higher for MSN entry-into-nursing track, B or higher for MSN specialties or doctorate
– Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Programs available on-campus and online
– School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97.5% first-time pass rate
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $95,359 for master’s graduates (according to College Scorecard)
– Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $54,160; Out-of-state: $54,160
– Average Graduate Tuition: In-state: $57,010; Out-of-state: $57,010
– Retention Rate: 97%
– Admission Rate: 11%
– Students Enrolled: 28,890
– Institution Type: Private
– Percent Online Enrollment: 88%
– Accreditation: Yes, Middle States Commission on Higher Education

2. Towson University

– Location: Towson, Maryland
– Duration: 4 years
– Format: Online + Campus

Towson University offers various options for nursing students, including a traditional BSN and an RN-to-BSN bridge program. The university also provides an associate-to-bachelor nursing track in collaboration with community college nursing programs in Maryland. Towson’s offerings extend to second bachelor’s degrees and MSN options, catering to career changers.

– Programs: Associate-to-bachelor nursing dual enrollment, BSN, RN-to-BSN, and MSN
– Campus: Towson, Maryland
– Type: Public
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
– Tuition: $3,550 per term in-state, $11,076 out-of-state for full-time undergraduate; $460 per credit in-state, $952 out-of-state for graduate
– Admission Requirements: Vary by program (e.g., 3.0 cumulative GPA and prerequisites for associate-to-bachelor; 42 undergraduate credits, TEAS scores for BSN; associate degree or diploma, RN license, 2.5 cumulative GPA, prerequisites for RN-to-BSN; bachelor’s degree, 3.0 cumulative GPA, prerequisites for MSN)
– Minimum Time Commitment: 5 terms
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 88.8% first-time pass rate
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $66,984 for bachelor’s graduates (according to College Scorecard)
– Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $6,962; Out-of-state: $21,098
– Average Graduate Tuition: In-state: $7,902; Out-of-state: $16,344

– Retention Rate: 85%
– Admission Rate: 79%
– Students Enrolled: 21,917
– Institution Type: Public
– Percent Online Enrollment: 100%
– Accreditation: Yes, Middle States Commission on Higher Education

3. Salisbury University

– Location: Salisbury, Maryland
– Duration: 4 years
– Format: Online + Campus

Salisbury University stands out with its diverse array of nursing programs in Maryland, spanning both undergraduate and graduate levels. Options include traditional or second BSN, RN-to-BSN or RN-to-MSN, MSN-nurse educator or MSN-healthcare leadership, and DNP.

– Programs: BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, RN-to-MSN, and DNP
– Campus: Salisbury, Maryland
– Type: Public
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
– Tuition:
– On-campus: $10,396 per year in-state, $20,872 out-of-state for full-time undergraduate; $9,558 per year in-state, $15,678 out-of-state for full-time graduate
– Online: $420 per credit in-state, $760 out-of-state for MSN; $665 in-state, $840 out-of-state for DNP
– Admission Requirements: Vary by track (e.g., university admission, prerequisites, or degree, RN license, 3.0-3.5 GPA for MSN and DNP)
– Minimum Time Commitment: 3 semesters
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95.3% first-time pass rate
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $63,267 for bachelor’s graduates (according to College Scorecard)
– Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $7,264; Out-of-state: $17,330
– Average Graduate Tuition: In-state: $8,769; Out-of-state: $13,599
– Retention Rate: 78%
– Admission Rate: 78%
– Students Enrolled: 8,124
– Institution Type: Public
– Percent Online Enrollment: 96%
– Accreditation: Yes, Middle States Commission on Higher Education

4. Frederick Community College

– Location: Frederick, Maryland
– Duration: 2 years
– Format: Online + Campus

Frederick Community College offers nursing programs, including a practical nursing (PN) certificate and an ADN. The college collaborates with nursing schools in Maryland to enable RNs to earn their bachelor’s degree. FCC’s transition-to-RN track expedites the path to an ADN for students with military medical experience, paramedics, and licensed PNs.

– Programs: PN certificate, ADN, transition-to-RN, and BSN university partnerships
– Campus: Frederick, Maryland
– Type: Public
– Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) for ADN program
– Tuition: $129 per credit in-county, $282 in-state, $382 out-of-state
– Admission Requirements: Vary by program (e.g., college-level English and math or placement tests, CPR training, background check, TEAS exam scores, anatomy, physiology, and microbiology prerequisites)
– Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97.1% first-time pass rate
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $61,516 for associate graduates (according to College Scorecard)
– Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $6,720; Out-of-state: $9,096
– Average Graduate Tuition: Not provided
– Retention Rate: 61%
– Admission Rate: Not provided
– Students Enrolled: 5,756
– Institution Type: Public
– Percent Online Enrollment: 65%
– Accreditation: Yes, Middle States Commission on Higher Education

5. Harford Community College

– Location: Bel Air, Maryland
– Duration: 2 years
– Format: Online + Campus

Harford Community College offers two nursing tracks: a traditional or accelerated ADN and an LPN-to-RN transition program. Both options prepare students to take the NCLEX-RN exam. The curriculum includes clinical experiences and coursework covering fundamentals of nursing, medical-surgical nursing, mental health nursing, pediatric nursing, and leadership.

– Programs: LPN-to-RN and ADN
– Campus: Bel Air, Maryland
– Type: Public
– Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
– Tuition: $133 per credit in-county, $226 in-state, $319 out-of-state
– Admission Requirements: Minimum 58.7 TEAS score, 16 college credits with a 2.5 GPA, completed prerequisites, criminal background check
– Minimum Time Commitment: 4 semesters
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 91.4% first-time pass rate
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $58,582 for associate graduates (according to College Scorecard)
– Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $5,427; Out-of-state: $7,664
– Average Graduate Tuition: Not provided
– Retention Rate: 64%
– Admission Rate: Not provided
– Students Enrolled: 5,256

Institution Type

6 Carroll Community College

Embarking on a Nursing Journey at Carroll Community College

Carroll Community College, located in Westminster, Maryland, offers a pathway for aspiring Registered Nurses (RNs) to attain their Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). This esteemed institution is among the array of nursing schools in Maryland dedicated to preparing graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam.

Carroll’s commitment extends to licensed practical nurses, paramedics, and military medics, providing tailored ADN tracks. The college also facilitates a Practical Nursing (PN) certificate program. A distinctive feature is Carroll’s collaboration with other nursing programs in Maryland, offering an associate-to-bachelor nursing dual degree.

Programs: PN certificate, ADN, and BSN university partnerships
Campus: Westminster, Maryland
Type: Public
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Tuition: $136 per credit in-county, $225 in-state, $288 out-of-state
Admission Requirements: High school diploma or GED certificate, 2.5-3.0 GPA, prerequisite courses, and NLN-PAX exam scores
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 79.2% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $59,288 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $5,232; Out-of-state: $6,672
Average Graduate Tuition: Not provided
Retention Rate: 68%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 3,060
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 89% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation: Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

7 College of Southern Maryland

Navigating Nursing Education at the College of Southern Maryland

The College of Southern Maryland stands as a prominent hub for nursing education, offering a spectrum of programs, including an ADN, Practical Nursing (PN) certificate, and two transition-to-ADN options. These transition programs, tailored for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and military medics/corpsmen, provide an expedited path to earning an ADN.

ADN graduates from the College of Southern Maryland are well-prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam for RN licensure, while PN certificate-holders can pursue the NCLEX-PN exams to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs).

Programs: PN certificate, ADN, and transition-to-ADN
Campus: La Plata, Maryland
Type: Public
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Tuition: $134-$235 per credit in-state, $301 out-of-state
Admission Requirements: High school diploma or GED certificate, 2.0 GPA, prerequisites or college placement tests, and a 59% TEAS exam score
Minimum Time Commitment: 14 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 77.8% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $56,641 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $5,496; Out-of-state: $7,056
Average Graduate Tuition: Not provided
Retention Rate: 65%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 6,164
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 99% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation: Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

8  Anne Arundel Community College

Excellence in Nursing Education at Anne Arundel Community College

Anne Arundel Community College, situated in Arnold, Maryland, distinguishes itself by offering Practical Nursing (PN) certificates and Associate Degrees in Nursing (ADNs). The ADN pathways cater to prelicensure students, transfer students, as well as LPNs, paramedics, and military veterans.

AACC’s nursing programs are designed to equip nurses with the skills to provide evidence-based, holistic, safe, and systematic care. The curriculum is rooted in cultural diversity, humanities, nursing theory, and sciences.

Programs: PN certificate and ADN
Campus: Arnold, Maryland
Type: Public
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Tuition: $120 per credit in-county, $253 in-state, $408 out-of-state
Admission Requirements: Prerequisite coursework, TEAS exam scores, a criminal background check, and CPR certification
Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96.5% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $62,756 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $7,230; Out-of-state: $12,240
Average Graduate Tuition: Not provided
Retention Rate: 65%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 11,948
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 96% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation: Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

9 Hood College

Nurturing Nursing Careers at Hood College

Hood College, located in Frederick, Maryland, takes pride in its Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, preparing graduates for licensure as Registered Nurses (RNs). The curriculum seamlessly integrates a liberal arts foundation with nursing coursework, emphasizing critical skills such as communication, critical thinking, leadership, nursing theory, and research and evidence-based practice.

Program: BSN
Campus: Frederick, Maryland
Type: Private
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: $42,510 per year
Admission Requirements: High school transcripts and an admission essay. Optional materials may include test scores, an interview, recommendations, a resume, writing samples, or an online portfolio.
Minimum Time Commitment: 4 years
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 81.3% first-time pass rate
Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $41,680; Out-of-state: $41,680
Average Graduate Tuition: In-state: $8,820; Out-of-state: $8,820
Retention Rate: 75%
Admission Rate: 71%
Students Enrolled: 2,042
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 55% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation: Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

10 Hagerstown Community College

Navigating the RN Path at Hagerstown Community College

Hagerstown Community College stands out as a hub for nursing education, offering two routes to becoming a Registered Nurse (RN): a traditional Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and transition programs tailored for LPNs, paramedics, and military veterans.

Students at HCC can complete their studies in three years or opt for the more rigorous two-year program. Additionally, HCC collaborates with two nursing schools in Maryland to offer an associate-to-bachelor track.

Programs: ADN and BSN through university partnership
Campus: Hagerstown, Maryland
Type: Public
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Tuition: $123 per credit in-county, $192 in-state, $236 neighboring states, $252 other states
Admission Requirements: SAT, AP, and TEAS exam scores; nursing program preview attendance; official transcripts; prerequisite science courses; 2.0 cumulative GPA; and 2.5 prerequisites GPA
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95.6% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $61,218 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $5,760; Out-of-state: $7,560
Average Graduate Tuition: Not provided
Retention Rate: 61%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 3,433
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 87% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation: Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

How to Choose a Nursing Program in Maryland

When deciding on a nursing program in Maryland, factors such as tuition and costs, financial aid availability, curriculum, NCLEX-RN pass rate, and program format should be considered. For those attending an online nursing program in Maryland, it is crucial to inquire about clinical placement options in their local community.

Why Choose a Career in Nursing in Maryland

Embarking on a nursing career in Maryland offers a diverse range of opportunities, extending beyond the bustling city of Baltimore. While Baltimore is a significant hub for nursing professionals, job prospects also thrive in rural communities and small towns that provide proximity to major urban attractions. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the projected growth of nursing jobs in Maryland is an impressive 22.3% between 2018 and 2028, surpassing the national projection of 7%.

Maryland operates as a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state, allowing nurses with a Maryland license to practice in other participating states. This compact enhances the flexibility and mobility of nurses trained in Maryland.

Salary and Employment Outlook for Nurses in Maryland

The Baltimore area alone hosts nearly 32,000 Registered Nurses (RNs) and over 2,000 Nurse Practitioners (NPs). Despite a projected surplus of 12,100 nurses from 2014-2030, the 22.3% growth in nursing jobs from 2018 to 2028 makes attending nursing school in Maryland a valuable investment, especially considering the state’s NLC status.

Maryland’s higher cost of living, with a cost-of-living index of 121.4 compared to the national index of 100, is offset by competitive median salaries. The median salary for an RN in Maryland is $79,810, surpassing the national median of $75,330. Similarly, NPs in Maryland earn a median salary of $112,730, compared to the national median of $111,680.

Nursing salaries peak in the Baltimore area, home to prestigious institutions like Johns Hopkins University. The city, known as “Charm City,” boasts unique neighborhoods such as Hampden, characterized as one of America’s quirkiest communities, and preserves historic 19th- and 18th-century housing in various locales.

Top-Paying Cities for Nurses in Maryland

Source: BLS

Steps to Pursuing a Nursing Career in Maryland

In all states, obtaining a nursing degree, successfully passing the NCLEX-RN examination, and submitting an application to the state board of nursing for licensure are mandatory requirements. The application process typically entails including a passport-style photo. Additionally, candidates must successfully undergo a criminal background check and provide evidence that they do not have outstanding child support payments or tax holds. This comprehensive process ensures that individuals entering the nursing profession meet the necessary standards and qualifications set by the state regulatory bodies.

Achieving a nursing career in Maryland involves specific steps:

RN Requirements:

– Graduate from an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program in Maryland or another state.
– Pass the NCLEX-RN examination.
– Apply to the state board of nursing, including submission of fingerprints for a criminal background check.
– Fulfill requirements regarding child support payments and outstanding taxes. The board of nursing’s website has the full application forms and requirements.

APRN Requirements:

– Obtain a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).
– Possess a current RN license (either Maryland or NLC) or apply for one. If you did not graduate from an approved school, you can ask your school to apply for approval.
– Submit a declaration of residence, sealed official transcripts, and proof of board certification or eligibility for the examination.
– Ensure completed coursework in advanced pharmacology, pathophysiology, and physical assessment.

The state board of nursing website provides comprehensive application information and forms.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Maryland

Are nurses in demand in Maryland?

In Maryland, the demand for nurses is projected to grow by 22.3% between 2018 and 2028, with a surplus of 12,100 nurses expected from 2014-2030. Top nursing programs in Maryland continue to produce in-demand professionals.

How do I become a nurse in Maryland?

To become a nurse in Maryland, earn an ADN or a BSN, pass the NCLEX-RN examination, submit fingerprints for a criminal background check, and apply to the state board of nursing, meeting requirements regarding child support and outstanding taxes.

How long does it take to get a Maryland RN license?

An ADN takes two years, and a BSN takes four years. While an ADN offers a faster route and lower tuition, an increasing number of employers prefer or require a BSN for higher-level positions. Maryland offers excellent nursing schools for both ADNs and BSNs.

Is the University of Maryland a good nursing school?

The University of Maryland demonstrates a commendable NCLEX-RN pass rate, indicating its status as one of the top nursing schools in Maryland. Choosing the right program depends on factors such as tuition, curriculum, program structure, and the availability of clinical placements in your community.

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