Best Nursing Schools in West Virginia

Catherine Burger, MSOL, RN, NEA-BC, LNC
Last Updated On Nov 20, 2024
Expert Verified: Catherine Burger, MSOL, RN, NEA-BC, LNC
8 Min Read
West Virginia

West Virginia leads the nation in beautiful mountainside landscapes, lush forests, and quaint, affordable communities. Apart from these very obvious draws to the state, there has been an influx of students to the state looking toward a bright future in nursing. Our state’s current data predicts that the number of nursing positions available to new nurses is projected to rise by 12% in the next ten years. Learn about the process to become a nurse in West Virginia and what types of degree programs are available in the state by taking a look at the sections below.

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Cities in West Virginia

Best RN Programs in West Virginia

Selecting the best nursing school in West Virginia can be difficult. To make the process easier first look for a school that supports students towards licensure and beyond. A great way to measure this is through NCLEX-RN "pass rates." We have ranked the top 10 nursing schools in West Virginia by analyzing current and historical NCLEX-RN "pass rates", meaning the percentage of graduates who pass the exam, out of the 26 RN programs in the state. Programs reviewed include schools that offer an Associate in Nursing (ADN/ASN), BSN, or Direct-Entry MSN Degree.

For more information on our top nursing school rankings, see our Methodology Page (https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/).

1.

64 Medical Center Dr., Morgantown, WV 26506

Score: 98.54

West Virginia University's nursing program values are that of integrity, excellence, and inclusiveness. These values translate into a renowned BSN nursing program that is well respected in the nursing field. Graduates are groomed for successful employment as RNs through clinical experiences and state-of-the-art simulations.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (304) 293-4831
2.

223 W Main St, Salem, WV 26426

Score: 96.92

Those looking for an exceptional 2-year Associate's Degree in Nursing can look to Salem University's program. Small class sizes and a unique curriculum where students take one course monthly gives prospective RNs the framework for success. The program is taught by experienced professors, and students get the benefits of high-tech simulation labs for hands-on learning.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (304) 326-1109
3.

100 Campus Dr, Elkins, WV 26241

Score: 95.48

Davis & Elkins College is a private and accredited school. The nursing program at Davis & Elkins College is based in science and the arts, while emphasizing patient-centered care and compassion. Ethical standards, respect for individual dignity, and consideration of cultural context are implicit in the practice of patient-centered care. Students practice skills in two clinical laboratories – one on D&E’s campus and one on the campus of Davis Health System.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (304) 637-1900
4.

One John Marshall Drive, Huntington, WV 25755

Score: 94.97

Outstanding results on the NLCEX exams, as well as partnerships with other educational facilities and hospitals, all account for the high success rates of the nursing graduates from Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (800) 642-3463
5.

2001 Union Carbide Drive, South Charleston, WV 25303

Score: 92.60

South Charleston’s BridgeValley Community & Technical College offers a 2-year ADN program. Students take a mix of general courses and professional major courses to obtain the knowledge and skills required to find success as a registered nurse. Graduates are well prepared to utilize nursing judgment and provide patient-centered care.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing, LPN to RN
  • Phone: (304) 205-6600
6.

13650 Apple Harvest Drive, Martinsburg, WV 25403

Score: 91.83

Martinsburg, West Virginia is home to the Blue Ridge Community and Technical College, located in the Eastern Panhandle region. BRCTC offers an ASN program that will prepare graduates to confidently accept employment opportunities immediately after graduation.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (304) 260-4380
7.

2900 Dempsey Branch Road, Mount Gay, WV 25637

Score: 91.33

Assessing, promoting, maintaining, and restoring health care are but a few words that best describe the nursing program at Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College. Being part of the change is easy at SWVCTC. Graduates are geared to confidently and successfully enter the field of nursing.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (304) 792-7098
8.

148 Willey St, Morgantown, WV 26505

Score: 89.93

The Morgantown campus of West Virginia Junior College offers an ADN pathway for those who aspire to become RNs. This direct-admittance program boasts a curriculum that combines critical thinking skills with nursing values, and is delivered in a format that includes classroom, laboratory, and clinical learning. It is accredited by ABHES and board-certified.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing, LPN-ADN
  • Phone: (304) 296-8282
9.

2300 Maccorkle Ave SE, Charleston, WV 25304

Score: 89.29

Partnerships, interactive faculty, assignments with other students, and collaboration with outside clinicians all make the BSN program at University of Charleston stand out. Upon completion, graduates are geared for success with confidence, knowledge, and skills.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (304) 357-4835
10.

300 Campus Dr, Parkersburg, WV 26104

Score: 88.67

West Virginia University's Parkersburg campus is home to an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing degree program. Students graduate with a sense of ethics, accountability, and purpose. Upon completion of the program, graduates are motivated to positively impact the face of healthcare.

Program Details

  • Programs: ADN
  • Phone: (304) 424-8000

West Virginia Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees

At the entry-level, West Virginia offers a variety of exceptional nursing programs such as an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. Take a look at the sections below to find out which one makes the most sense for you.

Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs

An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is the fastest pathway for aspiring nurses seeking entry-level positions. These programs typically take just two years to complete. Alternatively, students may consider an RN diploma, usually offered through specialized nursing schools and hospitals. RN diploma programs generally require 1-2 years to finish. The primary distinction between an ADN and an RN diploma lies in the curriculum: ADN programs include general college courses in addition to nursing education, while RN diplomas focus solely on foundational nursing skills. Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) in West Virginia can also pursue an LPN to RN bridge program, which can lead to either an ADN or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in West Virginia include:

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Minimum GPA, typically 2.5 or higher
  • Some programs require scores from the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI Admission Assessment

For further admissions requirements and more information, check out our page on ADN degree programs.

More information on RN diplomas, LPN to RN, and ADN programs:

ProgramEstimated TuitionEstimated CreditsOnline Availability
ADN$6,000 – $15,00060-72 creditsLimited online courses, primarily on-campus
LPN to RN$4,000 – $10,00030-45 creditsOften hybrid; some online courses
RN Diploma$5,000 – $12,00040-60 creditsRarely online; primarily on-campus

ADN, LPN to RN, and nursing diploma programs require hands-on clinical training hours under supervision in order to be eligible for RN licensure. These will need to be completed in person, even if you opt for an online or hybrid program. Not sure if you’re ready for an RN career? Consider an LPN or CNA program in West Virginia.

Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs

The traditional four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is widely regarded as the gold standard for nursing degrees in West Virginia. It is offered in online, on-campus, and hybrid formats at colleges and universities throughout the state. Many healthcare employers in West Virginia prefer BSN-educated nurses for entry-level RN roles. BSN programs typically include a mix of core education and nursing-specific courses, with both full-time and part-time options available. Regardless of the format, all BSN programs require in-person clinical training hours to ensure hands-on experience and skill development.

Admissions requirements for BSN programs in West Virginia typically include:

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0
  • Completion of prerequisite courses

For more information on BSN admissions requirements and more, see our BSN degrees page.

Several alternative pathways are also available to qualified students who want to pursue a BSN. Compare your options below:

ProgramLengthEstimated TuitionEntrance Level
Traditional BSN4 years (120-126 credits)$20,000 – $50,000First-time college students
RN to BSN1-2 years (30-35 credits)$10,000 – $20,000Licensed RNs with an ADN
ABSN12-18 months (50-60 credits)$25,000 – $40,000Non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders

RN to BSN

If you already have an ADN or nursing diploma and want to advance to a bachelor's degree you may be interested in a West Virginia RN to BSN bridge pathway. These programs can be taken full-time or part-time, allowing nurses to continue working if they wish, and are available both on-campus and online. Clinical hours, however, must be completed in person.

Accelerated BSN (ABSN)

West Virginia ABSN programs may be able to be completed in an even faster timeline than RN to BSN programs. These programs are more geared toward students who have a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing. For the right candidate, this can spell out a graduation timeline in as little as a year!

Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs

Students in West Virginia aiming for more advanced nursing opportunities will need to pursue a nursing graduate degree, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program, a bridge program to enter advanced practice, or a doctorate like the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Generally, a BSN is required to enter these programs. While the journey may take some time, the advanced career prospects and professional growth offered by these programs are well worth the investment.

Earning a graduate-level degree in nursing opens the door to numerous Advanced Practice Registered Nursing (APRN) roles, leadership roles, and even careers in academia or research. Read more about APRN pathways in West Virginia:

Getting an RN License in West Virginia

Upon graduation, nurses who wish to practice in West Virginia must obtain licensure. The RN licensure process requires submitting a formal application to the West Virginia Board of Nursing after passing the NCLEX-RN exam.

Requirements for RN Licensure in West Virginia

  • Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
  • Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
  • Application to the West Virginia Board of Nursing
  • Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance

Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?

RN program accreditation is also an important consideration. If an RN program is not accredited, it means that the state board has not approved the school’s curriculum, and thus, graduates from the program will not be allowed to get licensed. Accreditation in the US is conducted by both the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Continued List of All RN Programs in West Virginia

Here is a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs.

RankedSchoolProgramScoreWebsite
11.
Huntington, WV 25702 | Phone: (304) 526-1415
Programs: Associate in Nursing
88.19
12.
Shepherdstown, WV 25443 | Phone: (304) 876-5212
Programs: BSN
87.99
13.
West Liberty, WV 26074 | Phone: (304) 336-5000
Programs: BSN
87.89
14.
Beckley, WV 25801 | Phone: (877) 393-5014
Programs: Associate in Nursing
86.51
15.
Weirton, WV 26062 | Phone: (304) 723-2210
Programs: Associate in Nursing
85.20
16.
Buckhannon, WV 26201 | Phone: (304) 473-8000
Programs: BSN
85.15
17.
Fairmont, WV 26554 | Phone: (304) 367-4767
Programs: Associate in Nursing, LPN-ADN
84.87
18.
Beckley, WV 25801 | Phone: (304) 929-8324
Programs: BSN
84.75
19.
Beaver, WV 25813 | Phone: (304) 255-5812
Programs: Associate in Nursing, LPN-ADN
83.79
20.
Wheeling, WV 26003 | Phone: (304) 233-5900
Programs: ADN
82.96
21.
Moorefield, WV 26836 | Phone: (304) 434-8000
Programs: Associate in Nursing
80.96
22.
Bluefield, WV 24701 | Phone: (304) 327-4000
Programs: Associate in Nursing, LPN-ADN
74.94
23.
Wheeling, WV 26003 | Phone: (304) 243-2000
Programs: BA-BS to BSN, BSN
74.68
24.
Cross Lanes, WV 25313 | Phone: (304) 769-0011
Programs: Associate in Nursing
-
25.
Keyser, WV 26726 | Phone: (304) 788-6820
Programs: BSN
-
26.
New Martinsville, WV 26155 | Phone: (304) 455-4684
Programs: Associate in Nursing
-

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