The Top Nursing Schools in West Virginia

The Top Nursing Schools in West Virginia

Nursing schools in West Virginia have impressive National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) pass rates, coupled with the state’s projection of above-average job growth rates for RNs. Being a Nurse License Compact (NLC) state, graduates from nursing programs in West Virginia can apply for a multistate RN license. If you’re considering nursing school in West Virginia, this article provides insights into the best programs, obtaining your nursing license, and details about salary and job prospects. Continue reading to discover more about the leading nursing programs in West Virginia, the process of earning your license, and the outlook for jobs and salaries.

The Best Nursing Schools in West Virginia

West Virginia boasts over 40 nursing programs offering a variety of degrees, including an associate degree in nursing (ADN), a bachelor’s in nursing, and a master of science in nursing (MSN). This guide is designed to help you identify the best nursing schools aligned with your career goals and background.

Our Methodology:

We employ a data-driven methodology to rank the best nursing schools in West Virginia, simplifying the process for you to find a program that suits your needs. Our methodology relies on metrics we consider vital for students, encompassing academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. Utilizing publicly available provisional datasets from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), we ensure the data presented here is current as of the article’s publication date. Please note that program-specific information may vary.

1. Blue Ridge Community and Technical College

Located in Martinsburg, WV, Blue Ridge Community and Technical College stands out as a top nursing school in West Virginia. Students at this institution can pursue an associate of science in nursing (ASN) and qualify to take the NCLEX-RN.

The 60-credit curriculum covers essential courses in human anatomy and physiology, microbiology with labs, and nursing care, including valuable clinical experiences.

– Program(s): Associate of science in nursing (ASN)
– Campus: Martinsburg, West Virginia
– Type: Public
– Accreditation(s): Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
– Tuition: $172 per credit hour for in-state students; $211 for neighboring counties in Maryland, Virginia, and Pennsylvania; $311 per credit hour for out-of-state residents
– Admission Requirements: Prerequisite course completion or enrollment; 2.5 GPA; TEAS score of 63.3 or higher
– Minimum Time Commitment: 5 semesters
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100% first-time pass rate
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $58,823 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
– Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $408
– Out-of-state: $408
– Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: Not provided
– Out-of-state: Not provided
– Retention Rate: 61%
– Admission Rate: Not provided
– Students Enrolled: 3,912
– Institution Type: Public
– Percent Online Enrollment: 47%
– Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

How to Become a Holistic Nurse: Career Overview

2. West Virginia University

Situated in Morgantown, WV, West Virginia University offers a traditional bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) and programs catering to non-nursing bachelor’s holders and registered nurses.

The graduate study options include a master of science in nursing (MSN), MSN/MBA, a doctor of nursing practice with a nurse anesthesia concentration option, and a Ph.D.

Programs feature 100 hours of community service and clinical experiences with an 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio.

– Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing (BSN); RN-to-BSN; master of science in nursing (MSN); MSN/MBA; post-master’s specialty certificates; doctor of nursing practice (DNP); Ph.D.
– Campus: Morgantown, West Virginia
– Type: Public
– Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
– Tuition:
– BSN: $5,208-$5,868 per semester in-state; $13,620-$14,040 out-of-state
– MSN, MSN/MBA, Ph.D.: $6,192 per semester in-state; $14,202 out-of-state
– DNP-anesthesia: $11,259 per semester in-state; $19,272 out-of-state
– DNP, post-master’s certificate: $715 per credit
– Admission Requirements:
– BSN: College 3.0-3.2 GPA or high school 3.6-3.8 GPA; SAT or ACT scores
– RN-to-BSN: Associate degree or diploma in nursing; 2.5 GPA; RN license
– MSN: BSN; 3.0 GPA; RN license
– DNP/Ph.D.: MSN; 3.0-3.25 GPA; RN license
– Minimum Time Commitment: 3 semesters
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97.4% first-time pass rate
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $61,454 for bachelor’s graduates and $94,763 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
– Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $8,976
– Out-of-state: $25,320
– Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $10,134
– Out-of-state: $26,154
– Retention Rate: 82%
– Admission Rate: 84%
– Students Enrolled: 26,269
– Institution Type: Public
– Percent Online Enrollment: 94%
– Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

3. Davis & Elkins College

Situated in Elkins, WV, Davis & Elkins College offers traditional associate and bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degrees, along with advanced placement tracks for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and registered nurses (RNs).

D&E partners with area hospitals for 4-6-week supervised summer externships. Online RN-to-BSN students can complete their clinical hours at their workplaces.

– Program(s): Associate degree in nursing (ADN); bachelor of science in nursing (BSN); RN-to-BSN (online)
– Campus: Elkins, West Virginia
– Type: Private
– Accreditation(s): Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN); NLN Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA)
– Tuition: $29,280 per year; RN-to-BSN $400 per credit hour
– Admission Requirements: 2.5-3.0 GPA; TEAS scores; ACT or SAT scores for ADN entry; LPN or RN license for advanced placement
– Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100% first-time pass rate
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $50,022 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
– Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $29,280
– Out-of-state: $29,280

– Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: Not provided
– Out-of-state: Not provided
– Retention Rate: 69%
– Admission Rate: 69%
– Students Enrolled: 738
– Institution Type: Private
– Percent Online Enrollment: 57%
– Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#4 Shepherd University

– Shepherdstown, WV

– 4 years – Online + Campus

At Shepherd University, nursing students can actively engage in skill development through five simulation labs while pursuing either a bachelor’s degree or a doctorate. The RN-to-BSN track allows registered nurses to attain their bachelor’s degree through online or on-campus modalities.

The doctoral programs offer specialized tracks for individuals holding bachelor’s or master’s degrees, with concentrations in family nurse practitioner or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.

Programs: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN); Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Campus: Shepherdstown, West Virginia
Type: Public
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: Undergraduate: $7,784 per year full-time in-state, $18,224 out-of-state; DNP $767 per credit hour
Admission Requirements:
– BSN: Completion of pre-nursing curriculum; 2.7 GPA; RN license for RN-to-BSN entry
– DNP: 3.0 GPA; RN license
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $61,020 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $5,790
– Out-of-state: $15,276
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $8,118
– Out-of-state: $11,268
Retention Rate: 73%
Admission Rate: 98%
Students Enrolled: 3,159
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 82%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#5 West Liberty University

– West Liberty, WV

– 4 years – Online + Campus

The bachelor’s nursing degree program at West Liberty University provides specialized tracks for high school graduates, non-nursing bachelor’s degree-holders, and registered nurses with an associate degree or a diploma in nursing (RN-to-BSN).

All three options include a blend of classroom instruction and clinical experiences. The RN entry program facilitates online upper-level nursing courses, allowing RNs to continue their employment.

Programs: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN); RN-to-BSN
Campus: West Liberty, West Virginia
Type: Public
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition:
– In-state: $4,273 per semester full-time; $350 per credit hour part-time
– In-metro area: $7,118 per semester full-time; $587 per credit hour part-time
– Out-of-state: $8,382 per semester full-time; $692 per credit hour part-time
– RN-to-BSN: $4,130 per semester full-time; $344 per credit hour part-time
Admission Requirements:
– High school graduates: 3.5 GPA; 25 ACT or 1260 SAT scores
– Non-nursing bachelor’s-holders: 3.0 GPA; nursing prerequisites
– RN with diploma or associate degree: RN license; 2.0 GPA
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 94.4% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $50,439 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $8,150
– Out-of-state: $16,090
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $6,780
– Out-of-state: $8,112
Retention Rate: 73%
Admission Rate: 68%
Students Enrolled: 2,481
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 37%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#6 Marshall University

– Huntington, WV

– 4 years – Online + Campus

Marshall University offers two pathways for obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): a traditional, pre-licensure track and an online BSN for registered nurses with an associate degree or a diploma in nursing (RN-to-BSN).

The pre-licensure BSN program incorporates clinical rotations at partner medical centers and hospitals, preparing graduates for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam.

Programs: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN); RN-to-BSN
Campus: Huntington, West Virginia
Type: Public
Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Tuition:
– Pre-licensure: $4,276 per semester in-state; $7,318 in-metro area; $9,803 out-of-state
– Online: $3,195 per semester full-time; $266 per credit hour part-time
Admission Requirements:
– Pre-licensure: 2.5 GPA; ACT score of 21 (or SAT equivalent)
– RN-to-BSN: RN license; 2.5 GPA in associate or diploma nursing program
Minimum Time Commitment: 12-24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 91.8% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $58,823 for associate graduates, $57,318 for bachelor’s graduates, $87,183 for master’s graduates, and $185,138 for doctoral graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $7,190
– Out-of-state: $18,044
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $7,506
– Out-of-state: $19,840
Retention Rate: 77%
Admission Rate: 89%
Students Enrolled: 11,958
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 59%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#7 Fairmont State University

– Fairmont, WV

– 4 years – Online + Campus

Fairmont State University presents an online bachelor’s program for registered nurses (RNs) and an associate of science in nursing. Aspiring associate-level degree seekers can opt for a traditional two-year on-campus track, an online program tailored for licensed practical nurses (LPNs), or a hybrid weekend option.

Clinical rotations for both online and on-campus students are conducted within the Fairmont area.

Programs: Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN); Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Campus: Fairmont, West Virginia
Type: Public
Accreditations: ASN – Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN); BSN – Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: $319 per credit hour in-state; $483 in-metro area; $705 out-of-state; $329 online
Admission Requirements:
– ASN: 2.

0 GPA; ACT or SAT scores; TEAS exam score of 60; LPN license for LPN-to-ASN track
– BSN: RN license; 2.0 GPA
Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 89% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $56,641 for associate graduates and $63,855 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $5,888
– Out-of-state: $14,752
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $7,072
– Out-of-state: $17,038
Retention Rate: 69%
Admission Rate: 94%
Students Enrolled: 3,848
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 52%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#8 University of Charleston

– Charleston, WV

– 4 years

– Online + Campus

Nursing students at the University of Charleston can pursue degrees at the associate, bachelor’s, and master’s levels. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing offers traditional and online options, including an RN-to-BSN bridge program for registered nurses.

Master’s degree students engage in online studies, preparing for roles as family nurse practitioners. The associate degree program follows a hybrid format.

Programs: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN); Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN); RN-to-BSN; Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Campus: Charleston, West Virginia
Type: Private
Accreditations: ADN and BSN – Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Tuition: Traditional BSN $31,400 per year; ADN and RN-to-BSN $380 per credit hour; MSN $625 per credit hour
Admission Requirements:
– ADN and BSN: 2.5 GPA; TEAS exam score of 60
– RN-to-BSN: 2.0 college GPA; nursing and foundational prerequisites with a “C” or higher; RN license
– MSN: BSN, RN license; statement of purpose; two recommendations
Minimum Time Commitment: 3 semesters
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95.5% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $57,564 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $23,000
– Out-of-state: $23,000
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $17,000
– Out-of-state: $17,000
Retention Rate: 67%
Admission Rate: 61%
Students Enrolled: 2,967
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 78%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#9 BridgeValley Community & Technical College

– South Charleston, WV

– 2 years – Online + Campus

BridgeValley Community and Technical College offer an associate degree in nursing that integrates classroom instruction, hands-on laboratory experience, and clinical rotations at partnering hospitals and healthcare providers.

The college provides advanced placement into the program for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and paramedics. Graduates are well-prepared to take the NCLEX-RN.

Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
Campus: South Charleston, West Virginia
Type: Public
Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Tuition: $188 per credit hour in-state; $447 out-of-state
Admission Requirements:
– High school GPA: 3.0; College GPA: 2.5; TEAS exam score of 60.5
– LPN/paramedic advanced placement: License or certificate; 2 years of work experience; 2.75 GPA; TEAS exam score of 60.5
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95.7% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $55,738 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $4,692
– Out-of-state: $10,690
Average Graduate Tuition: Not provided
Retention Rate: 50%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 1,662
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 71%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#10 Pierpont Community and Technical College

– Fairmont, WV

– 2 years

– Online + Campus

Pierpont Community and Technical College prepares future licensed practical nurses (LPNs) through a certificate of applied science program. Graduates of the program are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN.

The part-time curriculum incorporates laboratory experience, clinical practice, and coursework covering areas such as geriatric nursing, maternal/pediatric nursing, nutrition, and pharmacology.

Program: Certificate of Applied Science in Licensed Practical Nursing
Campus: Fairmont, West Virginia
Type: Public
Accreditations: West Virginia Board of Examiners for Licensed Practical Nurses
Tuition: $212 per credit hour in-state; $502 out-of-state
Admission Requirements: TEAS exam score of 50; Prerequisites in human anatomy and fundamental concepts of mathematics with a “C” or higher
Minimum Time Commitment: 5 semesters
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $3,812
– Out-of-state: $10,670
Average Graduate Tuition: Not provided
Retention Rate: 53%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 1,613
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 100%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

Why Become a Nurse in West Virginia

Selecting the right nursing program for you depends on various personal preferences, such as school and class size. Consider factors like tuition, financial aid availability, the school’s reputation, NCLEX-RN pass rates, acceptance rate, admission requirements, and program logistics.

If you’re considering an online nursing program in West Virginia, ensure that you can secure clinical placement in your community. Given the significance of nursing program accreditation for your career, this guide focuses exclusively on accredited programs.

Reasons to Pursue a Nursing Career in West Virginia

West Virginia exhibits stronger-than-average job growth, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projecting a 14.9% increase in registered nurse (RN) positions between 2018 and 2028. Additionally, West Virginia being an NLC state allows you to apply for a multistate license.

The average NCLEX-RN pass rate for nursing schools in West Virginia stands at an impressive 90.2%, surpassing the national average of 86.6%. Beyond academics, the state’s captivating scenery, offering activities like skiing in winter and fishing, hiking, and white-water rafting in summer, makes it an appealing place to live.

Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in West Virginia

The average RN salary in West Virginia is $65,130, slightly below the national median of $75,330. Nurse practitioners (NPs) in the state earn an average of $105,220, also below the national median of $117,670. However, considering the lower cost of living in West Virginia (90.5 on the index, compared to the national 100), these figures offer a favorable perspective.

BLS projects a 14.9% growth in RN positions in West Virginia between 2018 and 2028, compared to the national rate of 12.1%. NPs may experience slightly slower growth in the state (24.8% compared to the national 28.2%).

Nurse Salary in West Virginia and Top-Paying Cities

If you prefer smaller cities, West Virginia could be an ideal location for you. Cities like Morgantown, Charleston, Huntington-Ashland, Beckley, and Parkersburg-Vienna offer median RN salaries ranging from $61,720 to $67,640.

Highest-Paying Cities

Top Paying Metropolitan Areas	Median Salary for RNs
Morgantown	$67,640
Charleston	$64,790
Huntington — Ashland	$64,660
Beckley	$63,190
Parkersburg — Vienna	$61,720

Source: BLS

Steps to Become a Nurse in West Virginia

Nursing requirements in West Virginia align with those in other states. Graduation from an accredited ADN or BSN program, passing the NCLEX-RN, and completing a criminal background check are mandatory. The West Virginia State Board of Nursing allows RNs to apply around two months before graduation, with unofficial NCLEX-RN results available two days after the exam.

RN and APRN Requirements

Earning an RN license in West Virginia necessitates graduating from an accredited program and passing the NCLEX-RN. The processing fee for licensure by examination is $70, with possible waivers. Unlike most states, West Virginia issues annual renewals, requiring 12 hours of continuing education for nurses.

To become an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), you need a current RN license, a graduate degree (MSN or DNP) with specific courses, and board certification. APRN licenses must be renewed every two years, with reduced-practice authority in West Virginia.

Frequently Asked Questions About West Virginia

How long does it take to become an RN in West Virginia?

The process to earn an RN license in West Virginia typically spans 2-4 years. This duration involves graduating with either an ADN (two-year) or a BSN (four-year) degree and successfully passing the NCLEX-RN, accompanied by a mandatory criminal background check. You can obtain a temporary license within 5-10 days after the board of nursing receives all necessary paperwork. This temporary license is valid for 90 days.

What is a contact hour? Is it the same as a continuing education unit?

A contact hour equates to 50 minutes of instruction from a state-recognized provider, such as an accredited university or authorized providers. Notably, a continuing education unit comprises 10 contact hours. West Virginia mandates 12 contact hours for the renewal of a nursing license.

How many RNs are in West Virginia?

According to the BLS report as of May 2020, West Virginia is home to 19,800 RNs. The West Virginia Center for Nursing anticipates high demand across the state, albeit with variations by county.

Where can I find approved continuing education activities?

The state board of nursing accepts credits from any state-approved nursing program in West Virginia or other states. Additionally, they recognize credits from other courses that have undergone evaluation and authorization. For a partial list of approved courses, you can refer to the CE Broker website.

How many times can you take the NCLEX in West Virginia?

In West Virginia, you are permitted to take the NCLEX-RN up to eight times per year. However, there is a mandatory waiting period of 48 days between attempts. After two or more unsuccessful attempts, the board of nursing stipulates the completion of additional requirements.