Are you searching for the best nursing schools in New Hampshire? Whether you're starting your journey in healthcare or advancing your nursing career, finding the right nursing program is essential. In or near New Hampshire, you’ll find a range of accredited nursing programs, from entry-level certificates to advanced nursing degrees.
Explore nursing schools in New Hampshire to choose the right program for your future in nursing.
New Hampshire Nursing Degree Programs
RN to BSN Programs in New Hampshire
RN to BSN programs in New Hampshire are tailored for registered nurses who want to expand their skills, advance in their careers, or pursue graduate education. These programs can often be completed in 12 to 18 months and focus on leadership, research, and community health. Many schools offer flexible online formats to accommodate working nurses.
RN to BSN and RN to MSN Bridge Programs by Specialization in New Hampshire
Bridge programs in New Hampshire provide registered nurses with clear academic pathways to higher degrees. RN to BSN programs help build leadership and public health expertise, while RN to MSN bridge programs allow for specialization in roles such as family nurse practitioner, nurse educator, or clinical nurse leader. These programs are designed to fit into the schedules of working professionals through evening, weekend, and online formats.
University of New Hampshire-Main Campus Nursing Programs in Durham, New Hampshire
Comprehensive curriculum encompassing anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, microbiology, and medical-surgical nursing.
Extensive clinical rotations in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health organizations, providing hands-on experience.
Focus on critical thinking, problem-solving, and patient-centered care principles.
Experienced faculty comprised of nurses and healthcare professionals with expertise in various clinical specialties.
NCLEX-RN exam preparation integrated throughout the program, including practice questions, review sessions, and simulation exercises.
Strong emphasis on communication, collaboration, and teamwork skills essential for effective nursing practice.
Opportunity to build a solid foundation for further education, such as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
Nursing Schools in Durham, New Hampshire
Address: 105 Main St., Thompson Hall, Durham, New Hampshire 03824-3547
Covers essential nursing skills such as patient assessment, medication administration, and wound care.
Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN examination.
Often serves as a stepping stone for nurses who wish to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) later in their career through RN-to-BSN programs.
Nursing Schools in Nashua, New Hampshire
Address: 5 Woodward Ave, Nashua, New Hampshire 03060
Plymouth State University Nursing Programs in Plymouth, New Hampshire
Comprehensive curriculum covering anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, mental health nursing, obstetrics, pediatrics, and community health nursing.
Emphasis on evidence-based practice and critical thinking skills.
Extensive clinical experience in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, and community agencies.
Dedicated faculty with expertise in various nursing specialties providing personalized instruction and mentorship.
Focus on developing effective communication and interpersonal skills essential for patient care and teamwork.
Preparation for the NCLEX-RN licensure examination through integrated review courses, practice exams, and personalized study plans.
Strong career outlook with high demand for registered nurses in New Hampshire and nationally.
Nursing Schools in Plymouth, New Hampshire
Address: 17 High Street, Plymouth, New Hampshire 03264-1595
Saint Anselm College DNP, Nursing Admin/Leadership, RN Nursing Programs in Manchester, New Hampshire
Emphasizes a strong foundation in liberal arts alongside nursing science, fostering critical thinking and ethical decision-making.
Focuses on developing leaders in nursing practice, administration, and education.
Often incorporates clinical experiences in diverse healthcare settings in the Manchester, NH area and beyond.
Typically includes opportunities for research and scholarly activities, depending on the specific program.
Potential career paths include advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), nurse administrators, clinical nurse leaders, nurse educators, and registered nurses.
May offer various entry points based on prior education, such as direct entry for bachelor's degrees or advanced placement for RNs seeking a DNP or leadership role.
Nursing Schools in Manchester, New Hampshire
Address: 100 Saint Anselm Drive, Manchester, New Hampshire 03102-1310
Lakes Region Community College ADN, BSN, LPN, MSN, RN, RN to BSN Nursing Programs in Laconia, New Hampshire
Provides multiple entry points into the nursing profession, catering to different career goals and educational backgrounds.
Focuses on practical, hands-on training alongside theoretical knowledge, preparing graduates for real-world clinical settings.
Offers pathways for career advancement, allowing LPNs and RNs with associate degrees to pursue a BSN.
Likely emphasizes regional healthcare needs, with clinical placements at local hospitals and healthcare facilities.
May offer flexible learning options such as evening or weekend classes to accommodate working students.
Curriculum typically includes foundational sciences, nursing theory, clinical skills, and patient care principles.
Graduates are prepared to sit for the NCLEX examination relevant to their program (e.g., NCLEX-RN for ADN and BSN graduates, NCLEX-PN for LPN graduates).
Nursing Schools in Laconia, New Hampshire
Address: 379 Belmont Road, Laconia, New Hampshire 03246
Manchester Community College ASN, BSN, LPN, MSN, RN, RN to BSN Nursing Programs in Manchester, New Hampshire
ASN programs provide a foundation for entry-level RN positions, emphasizing practical skills and patient care.
BSN programs offer a broader curriculum, including leadership, research, and community health, preparing graduates for diverse roles and advanced studies.
LPN programs focus on basic nursing care under the supervision of RNs or physicians, providing essential support to healthcare teams.
RN licensure is typically achieved after completing an ASN or BSN program and passing the NCLEX-RN exam.
RN to BSN programs allow working RNs with an ASN to advance their education and career opportunities.
MSN programs prepare nurses for advanced practice roles such as nurse practitioner, nurse educator, or nurse administrator. At a community college level, often MSN preparation is not available, but the groundwork for further education is laid.
Graduates are prepared to work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health organizations.
Nursing Schools in Manchester, New Hampshire
Address: 1066 Front St, Manchester, New Hampshire 03102-8518
Great Bay Community College BSN, LPN, MSN, Pre-Nursing, RN, RN to BSN Nursing Programs in Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Pre-Nursing programs provide foundational science and math courses necessary for admission to competitive nursing programs.
LPN programs offer a practical nursing education, preparing graduates for direct patient care under the supervision of RNs or physicians.
RN programs (typically Associate Degree in Nursing - ADN) enable graduates to become registered nurses, focusing on a blend of theory and clinical practice.
RN to BSN programs are designed for currently licensed RNs to advance their education and career opportunities by earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
BSN programs offer a comprehensive nursing education, covering leadership, management, and research alongside clinical skills, leading to a bachelor's degree.
MSN programs may not be offered directly at a community college like Great Bay, but RN to MSN bridge programs might be available through partnerships with 4-year universities.
Career paths range from direct patient care in hospitals and clinics to leadership and management roles, depending on the degree obtained.
Nursing Schools in Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Address: 320 Corporate Drive, Portsmouth, New Hampshire 03801-2879
Franklin Pierce University Nursing Programs in Rindge, New Hampshire
Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers foundational nursing concepts, anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, mental health nursing, maternal-child nursing, and community health nursing.
Extensive Clinical Experience: Provides hands-on experience in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health agencies.
NCLEX-RN Preparation: Offers dedicated preparation for the NCLEX-RN exam through practice questions, review sessions, and simulated testing.
Experienced Faculty: Instructors with real-world nursing experience and expertise in their respective fields.
State-of-the-Art Simulation Labs: Uses advanced simulation technology to provide realistic and safe learning environments for practicing nursing skills.
Career Opportunities: Graduates are prepared for entry-level RN positions in a wide range of healthcare settings.
Accreditation: The program seeks and often achieves accreditation from a recognized nursing accreditation body (e.g., ACEN or CCNE).
Nursing Schools in Rindge, New Hampshire
Address: 40 University Drive, Rindge, New Hampshire 03461-0060
1. What types of nursing programs are available in New Hampshire?
Nursing schools in New Hampshire offer various programs, including:
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) programs – Entry-level training for nursing assistants.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) programs – Typically one year of training.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) – A two-year program that prepares you for the NCLEX-RN exam and RN licensure.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – A four-year degree that provides more career opportunities and higher earning potential.
RN-to-BSN programs – Designed for current RNs who want to earn a BSN.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Advanced education for specialized nursing roles, such as nurse practitioner or nurse educator.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) – The highest level of clinical nursing education.
2. How do I choose the best nursing school in New Hampshire?
When selecting a nursing school, consider factors like accreditation, NCLEX pass rates, clinical training opportunities, tuition costs, and program flexibility (online, hybrid, or in-person).
3. Why is nursing school accreditation important?
Accreditation ensures your program meets high educational standards. Nursing programs should be accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Attending an accredited school is required for licensure and financial aid eligibility.
4. How do I check if a nursing program in New Hampshire is accredited?
You can verify accreditation by visiting the school’s website, checking the ACEN or CCNE directories, or contacting the State Board of Nursing in New Hampshire.
5. How long does it take to complete a nursing program?
The duration depends on the type of program:
CNA program: A few weeks to a few months.
LPN/LVN program: About 12 months.
ADN program: 2 years.
BSN program: 4 years.
RN-to-BSN program: 12-24 months.
MSN program: 2 years (after BSN).
DNP program: 3-4 years.
6. Can I complete a nursing program online?
Some programs, such as RN-to-BSN, MSN, and DNP, offer online coursework. However, pre-licensure programs (like ADN and BSN) require in-person clinical training.
7. What is the NCLEX, and why is it important?
The NCLEX-PN (for LPNs) and NCLEX-RN (for RNs) are national exams required for licensure. Graduating from an accredited program is necessary to sit for these exams.
8. What financial aid options are available for nursing students?
Students enrolled in accredited nursing programs may qualify for:
Federal financial aid (Pell Grants, loans, and work-study programs).
State grants and scholarships.
Nursing-specific scholarships.
Employer tuition assistance programs.
9. What are the job opportunities for nurses in New Hampshire?
Nurses in New Hampshire can work in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, home healthcare, and specialized care facilities. Advanced degrees open opportunities in leadership, education, and specialized nursing roles like nurse practitioner or nurse anesthetist.
10. How much do nurses earn in New Hampshire?
Salaries vary based on education, experience, and location. On average:
CNA: $30,000 – $40,000 per year.
LPN/LVN: $45,000 – $55,000 per year.
RN (ADN or BSN): $65,000 – $90,000 per year.
MSN-prepared nurses: $90,000 – $120,000 per year.
Nurse practitioners and APRNs: $100,000 – $150,000 per year.