Best Nursing Schools by US News

The U.S. News & World Report has long been a reputable source for rankings that measure the quality of higher education institutions across the United States. One of its most anticipated rankings is the list of the best graduate nursing schools. Nursing is a critical component of the healthcare system, and nursing schools are evaluated based on rigorous criteria that include expert opinions, faculty quality, research capabilities, and student outcomes.

Among the more than 700 accredited nursing programs across the nation, several institutions stand out for their exceptional academic offerings and leadership in the field. Johns Hopkins University, the University of Pennsylvania, and the University of Washington are tied for the top position, while other prestigious schools such as Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU), Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI), George Washington University, and California State University, Los Angeles (Cal State L.A.) are also highly ranked.

Johns Hopkins University: Tied for Number One

Johns Hopkins University (JHU) consistently ranks as one of the best nursing programs in the United States. In the U.S. News & World Report's 2012 Best Graduate Schools rankings, JHU was tied for the number one position with the University of Pennsylvania and the University of Washington. This remarkable achievement reflects JHU's long-standing commitment to excellence in nursing education, research, and clinical practice. Johns Hopkins offers an extensive range of graduate nursing programs, from a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) to doctoral degrees in nursing practice and research.

The nursing programs at Johns Hopkins are known for their innovative curriculum, which blends classroom learning with real-world clinical experience. Students have the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research in various nursing specialties, benefiting from JHU's world-class faculty and state-of-the-art healthcare facilities. The school has a rich history of producing highly skilled and knowledgeable nursing professionals who contribute to healthcare policy, nursing education, and patient care globally. The consistent ranking at the top is a testament to the school's ability to nurture leadership, critical thinking, and clinical excellence in its graduates.

The University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania, often referred to as Penn, also shares the number one ranking with Johns Hopkins and the University of Washington. Penn’s School of Nursing is internationally recognized for its research, teaching, and clinical expertise. Penn’s nursing programs offer diverse specializations in areas like nurse practitioner roles, nursing administration, and clinical nurse leadership. The school is home to some of the most influential nursing research in the world, particularly in areas such as health promotion, disease prevention, and healthcare systems improvement.

Penn’s nursing faculty is comprised of leading experts who contribute to groundbreaking studies and advancements in nursing practice. The integration of evidence-based research with practical training ensures that students are well-prepared to face the complexities of modern healthcare systems. The school also has a robust network of clinical partnerships, which provides students with hands-on experience in hospitals and healthcare settings. The University of Pennsylvania's consistent ranking at the top reflects the quality of its programs and its impact on shaping the future of healthcare through nursing education.

University of Washington

The University of Washington (UW) shares the prestigious top ranking with Johns Hopkins and the University of Pennsylvania. The UW School of Nursing is known for its exceptional research output, diverse graduate programs, and commitment to improving healthcare on a global scale. The nursing school at UW offers various programs, including advanced practice nurse specialties, nursing administration, and public health nursing. UW is particularly renowned for its research in nursing, particularly in areas like maternal and child health, aging, and community health nursing.

UW’s nursing programs emphasize the importance of leadership, innovation, and evidence-based practice. The school is deeply committed to addressing healthcare disparities through education and research. Students in UW’s nursing programs have access to a variety of opportunities for clinical experience and research projects, allowing them to gain practical knowledge while contributing to meaningful advancements in healthcare. As one of the nation’s top nursing schools, UW is dedicated to producing nursing leaders who will shape the future of the profession.

Oregon Health and Science University

Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) School of Nursing ranks 7th in the nation for its Master’s in Nursing program, tying with esteemed institutions such as Duke University, Yale University, and the University of Pittsburgh. In addition to this impressive ranking, OHSU excels in several specialized nursing areas. The school ranks 1st in nursing midwifery, 4th in geriatric nurse practitioner programs, and 6th in family nurse practitioner programs. These rankings reflect the strength of OHSU’s focused nursing programs, which are tailored to meet the growing demands of specialized healthcare providers.

OHSU's midwifery program, in particular, is highly regarded for producing some of the best-trained nurse midwives in the country. The school’s advanced practice programs prepare nurses to take on leadership roles in various healthcare settings, focusing on specialized patient care and evidence-based practice. OHSU’s School of Nursing is committed to providing students with the tools and knowledge necessary to lead healthcare initiatives, conduct research, and improve patient outcomes in their areas of specialization.

Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI)

The Indiana University School of Nursing at IUPUI is ranked 15th overall in the U.S. News & World Report's 2012 rankings, and 10th among public nursing schools. The school is well-regarded for its wide range of graduate nursing programs, which include clinical nurse specialist tracks, family nurse practitioner programs, and nursing administration. Notably, IUPUI’s clinical nurse specialist program in the adult/medical-surgical specialty is ranked 3rd in the nation, reflecting the program’s strength in preparing nurses for high-level clinical roles.

IUPUI's School of Nursing places a strong emphasis on patient-centered care, leadership, and healthcare systems management. Students benefit from the school’s partnerships with hospitals and healthcare organizations in the region, allowing them to gain hands-on experience while pursuing their studies. The school’s commitment to research and evidence-based practice ensures that its graduates are well-equipped to address the challenges facing today’s healthcare system.

The George Washington University

The George Washington University School of Nursing, ranked 50th nationally, stands as a prominent institution for nursing education in Northern Virginia. While its national ranking may not be at the very top, the school’s location in Washington, D.C., provides students with unique opportunities to engage in healthcare policy, research, and leadership. GW’s nursing programs emphasize public health, clinical practice, and health policy, making them an ideal choice for those interested in shaping healthcare at both the clinical and policy levels.

GW offers both advanced practice and administrative nursing programs, focusing on producing well-rounded nursing leaders who can contribute to healthcare in a variety of settings. The university’s close proximity to major health organizations, government agencies, and international healthcare institutions makes it a hub for nursing students who are eager to make an impact on the national and global stages.

California State University, Los Angeles

California State University, Los Angeles (Cal State L.A.) ranks among the top nursing schools in the nation, specifically for its nursing master’s degree program. As the only CSU campus in Los Angeles to be listed in the top 100, Cal State L.A. is a standout institution for nursing education in the region. The university’s nursing programs are designed to meet the needs of a diverse population, providing education and training for nurses who aspire to work in a range of specialties, including public health, family nursing, and nurse practitioner roles.

Cal State L.A. has consistently ranked among the top five nursing programs in California, reflecting its commitment to high-quality education and clinical practice. The university is known for its diverse student body and its strong connections to healthcare organizations in Los Angeles, allowing students to gain practical experience in one of the most dynamic and diverse healthcare markets in the country.