Are you searching for the best nursing schools in Ohio? Whether you're starting your journey in healthcare or advancing your nursing career, finding the right nursing program is essential. In or near Ohio, you’ll find a range of accredited nursing programs, from entry-level certificates to advanced nursing degrees.
Explore nursing schools in Ohio to choose the right program for your future in nursing.
Ohio Nursing Degree Programs
RN to BSN Programs in Ohio
RN to BSN programs in Ohio 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 Ohio
Bridge programs in Ohio 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.
Offers pathways for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) to advance their careers through LPN-to-ADN or LPN-to-RN bridge programs.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs focus on providing students with foundational knowledge and clinical skills necessary for entry-level RN positions.
Registered Nurse (RN) programs emphasize comprehensive patient care, critical thinking, and leadership skills.
Curriculum typically includes classroom instruction, laboratory simulations, and clinical rotations in various healthcare settings (hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities).
RN-to-BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) programs may be available for RNs seeking advanced knowledge and career opportunities.
The LPN program prepares students for direct patient care under the supervision of RNs or physicians.
Graduates of these programs are prepared to take the NCLEX-PN (for LPNs) or NCLEX-RN (for ADN/RN graduates) exam to become licensed.
Cuyahoga Community College District Nursing Programs in Cleveland, Ohio
Comprehensive curriculum encompassing medical-surgical nursing, maternal-newborn nursing, pediatric nursing, mental health nursing, and pharmacology.
Extensive clinical experience in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health organizations.
Emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, and evidence-based practice to provide safe and effective patient care.
Experienced and dedicated faculty who are committed to student success.
NCLEX-RN preparation integrated throughout the program, including practice exams and review sessions.
State-of-the-art simulation labs to provide hands-on learning opportunities.
Strong career outlook with high demand for registered nurses in Northeast Ohio and beyond.
Buckeye Hills Career Center Nursing Programs in Thurman, Ohio
Comprehensive Curriculum: Blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on skills development in areas like medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, obstetrics, and mental health.
Extensive Clinical Experience: Provides practical experience in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, and community health organizations.
NCLEX-RN Preparation: Offers focused instruction and resources to prepare students for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN), a requirement for licensure as a registered nurse.
State-of-the-Art Simulation Labs: Utilizes advanced simulation technology to create realistic healthcare scenarios, allowing students to practice critical thinking and decision-making skills in a safe environment.
Experienced Faculty: Taught by qualified and experienced nursing instructors who provide personalized support and guidance to students.
Career Advancement Opportunities: Serves as a foundation for further education, such as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
High Demand Profession: Prepares graduates for a rewarding career with excellent job prospects in the healthcare industry.
Nursing Schools in Thurman, Ohio
Address: 351 Buckeye Hills Road, Rio Grande, Ohio 45674-0157
Defiance College Nursing Programs in Defiance, Ohio
Comprehensive curriculum covering anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, mental health nursing, obstetrics, and pediatrics.
Extensive clinical experiences in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health organizations.
Emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills necessary for providing safe and patient-centered care.
Dedicated NCLEX-RN preparation integrated throughout the program, including practice exams, review sessions, and individualized support.
Simulation labs equipped with state-of-the-art technology to provide realistic and immersive learning opportunities.
Opportunity to develop leadership and teamwork skills through collaborative projects and clinical rotations.
Strong career outlook with high demand for Registered Nurses in various healthcare specialties.
Capital University BSN, MSN Nursing Programs in Columbus, Ohio
Offers both traditional BSN and accelerated BSN options for different student backgrounds.
MSN programs often include specializations like Nurse Practitioner (Family, Adult-Gerontology, Pediatric, Psychiatric), Nurse Educator, or Nursing Administration.
Clinical placements are a core component of both BSN and MSN programs, offering hands-on experience in diverse healthcare settings.
BSN programs prepare graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam and entry-level nursing positions.
MSN programs aim to develop advanced nursing skills, leadership qualities, and research capabilities.
Faculty often possess extensive clinical experience and research expertise.
Potential career paths for BSN graduates include hospital nursing, community health, and school nursing; MSN graduates may pursue roles as nurse practitioners, educators, or administrators.
Nursing Schools in Columbus, Ohio
Address: 1 College and Main, Columbus, Ohio 43209-2394
Cedarville University DNP, FNP, MSN, NP, Nurse Educator, Nursing Admin/Leadership, PMHNP, PNP, Pre-Nursing, RN Nursing Programs in Cedarville, Ohio
Strong Christian worldview integration within the nursing curriculum, emphasizing compassionate care and ethical practice.
Potential for clinical experience in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and community organizations within Ohio and beyond.
Focus on preparing graduates for leadership roles in nursing and healthcare administration.
Emphasis on evidence-based practice and utilizing research to improve patient outcomes.
Opportunities to specialize in advanced practice nursing roles such as Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), or Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP).
Pre-Nursing programs designed to provide a solid foundation in the sciences and humanities, preparing students for entry into a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program.
Preparation for NCLEX-RN exam through rigorous coursework and clinical practice.
Nursing Schools in Cedarville, Ohio
Address: 251 N. Main Street, Cedarville, Ohio 45314-0601
Central Ohio Technical College ADN, BSN, LPN, RN, RN to BSN Nursing Programs in Newark, Ohio
Offers multiple entry points to nursing, from LPN to BSN.
ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) programs typically prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam and entry-level RN positions.
BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) programs provide a more comprehensive education, often leading to expanded career opportunities and leadership roles.
LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) programs focus on practical skills and direct patient care, preparing graduates for entry-level nursing positions under the supervision of RNs or physicians.
RN to BSN programs are designed for working RNs with an ADN to advance their education and career prospects.
Clinical experiences are a critical component of all nursing programs, providing hands-on training in various healthcare settings.
Graduates from accredited programs are eligible to sit for the NCLEX licensure exams.
Nursing Schools in Newark, Ohio
Address: 1179 University Drive, Newark, Ohio 43055-1767
Chamberlain University-Ohio Nursing Programs in Columbus, Ohio
Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers essential nursing principles, medical-surgical nursing, maternal-newborn care, pediatrics, mental health nursing, and pharmacology.
Extensive Clinical Experience: Offers hands-on clinical rotations in diverse healthcare settings like hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health agencies.
NCLEX-RN Preparation: Integrates NCLEX-RN review throughout the program with practice questions, simulated exams, and remediation resources to maximize success.
Experienced Faculty: Features experienced nurse educators and clinical instructors who provide personalized support and mentorship.
Patient-Centered Care Focus: Emphasizes the importance of providing holistic, compassionate, and culturally sensitive care to patients and their families.
Career Opportunities: Prepares graduates for entry-level RN positions in a wide range of healthcare settings.
Alliance Career Center Nursing Programs in Alliance, Ohio
Comprehensive curriculum covering anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, mental health nursing, obstetrics, and pediatrics.
Extensive clinical experiences in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, community health centers, and physician's offices.
Focus on developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills essential for providing safe and effective patient care.
NCLEX-RN preparation woven throughout the curriculum, including practice exams, review sessions, and personalized support to maximize success.
State-of-the-art simulation labs providing hands-on experience in realistic patient care scenarios.
Opportunity to work under the guidance of experienced and dedicated nursing faculty.
High job placement rates for graduates in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities.
ATA College-Cincinnati ADN, RN Nursing Programs in Cincinnati, Ohio
Focuses on practical, hands-on training to prepare students for immediate entry into the nursing workforce.
Typically involves a blend of classroom instruction, laboratory simulations, and clinical rotations at local healthcare facilities.
Emphasizes the development of essential nursing skills, including patient assessment, medication administration, wound care, and electronic health record documentation.
Prepares graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam, a requirement for licensure as a registered nurse.
May offer flexible scheduling options, such as evening or weekend classes, to accommodate working students.
Often provides career services and job placement assistance to help graduates find employment after graduation.
Smaller class sizes may foster a more personalized learning environment and closer interaction with instructors.
Nursing Schools in Cincinnati, Ohio
Address: 225 Pictoria Drive, Suite 200, Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Athena Career Academy Nursing Programs in Toledo, Ohio
Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers foundational nursing concepts, medical-surgical nursing, maternal-newborn nursing, pediatric nursing, mental health nursing, pharmacology, and more.
Extensive Clinical Experience: Provides hands-on training in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health organizations.
NCLEX-RN Preparation: Includes dedicated NCLEX-RN review courses, practice exams, and tutoring to ensure graduates are well-prepared for the licensing exam.
Experienced Faculty: Taught by experienced and dedicated nurse educators who are passionate about student success.
Career Advancement Opportunities: Opens doors to a wide range of nursing careers in hospitals, clinics, schools, home health agencies, and more.
Simulation Labs: Offers access to state-of-the-art simulation labs where students can practice clinical skills in a safe and controlled environment.
Small Class Sizes: Promotes a supportive learning environment with personalized attention from instructors.
Aultman College of Nursing and Health Sciences ADN, ASN, BSN, CRNA, LPN, NP, Nurse Educator, RN Nursing Programs in Canton, Ohio
Multiple Entry Points: Programs cater to various educational backgrounds, from entry-level LPN to advanced practice (NP, CRNA).
Focus on Clinical Experience: Emphasis is placed on hands-on clinical training, likely within the Aultman Health System.
Progression Opportunities: ADN/ASN programs often serve as a stepping stone to a BSN for career advancement.
Specialization Options: Beyond the core RN, specialization opportunities are available through NP, CRNA, and Nurse Educator pathways.
Job Opportunities: Graduation can lead to careers in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and educational institutions.
Curriculum: Programs will emphasize fundamental nursing principles as well as advanced knowledge and skills.
Certification: Graduates may be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam (for RN programs) or other certification exams relevant to their chosen specialization (NP, CRNA).
1. What types of nursing programs are available in Ohio?
Nursing schools in Ohio 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 Ohio?
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 Ohio 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 Ohio.
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 Ohio?
Nurses in Ohio 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 Ohio?
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.