Let's explore the best college majors for aspiring nurses, along with a list of the top nursing schools and programs.
The best college majors for nursing
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
At undergraduate colleges and universities, the most direct major for a career in nursing is a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). BSN programs are typically four years and include general college pre-requisite classes in addition to coursework in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nutrition, psychology, and other social and behavioral sciences. Many programs include nursing theory and help students understand the rationale behind nursing practices.
They also include supervised clinical experiences in various healthcare settings. Graduates of BSN programs are well-prepared to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) and become Registered Nurses (RNs).
Bachelor’s in Health Science
Another route to consider is a bachelor's degree in health science. This degree provides a broad understanding of the health industry and can be a stepping stone to a master's in nursing program. Courses often include biology, chemistry, health informatics, and healthcare management.
Psychology
Psychology is another excellent major for prospective nurses, particularly those interested in mental health nursing. This field explores human behavior, mental processes, and how these factors influence health. A psychology major can offer a strong foundation for a career in psychiatric or mental health nursing.
Biological Sciences
A degree in biological sciences, encompassing fields like biology, biochemistry, or microbiology, can also pave the way to a nursing career. These programs provide a solid foundation in the life sciences, which is essential for understanding the human body and disease processes in nursing.
Other routes to becoming a nurse
The quickest route to becoming a nurse is obtaining an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) through a community college. These programs are typically 18-24 months and focus on hands-on nursing care and supervised clinical experiences. After completing the program, graduates are prepared to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) and become Registered Nurses (RNs).
For students that already have a bachelor’s degree and are looking to enter the nursing field as a second career, accelerated bachelor’s in nursing (ABSN) programs exist. An ABSN is a fast-paced program (around 16 months) that focuses on the nursing-specific curriculum and experience. Program graduates are prepared to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) and become Registered Nurses (RNs).
Top nursing schools and programs
Once you've decided on a major, the next step is to choose a reputable nursing school.
It's important to assess what learning environment will meet your specific learning needs. For example, nursing programs may be in-person, online, or hybrid. You may search out programs that are in-state, or out-of-state.
Here are some top nursing schools that offer these programs:
- Johns Hopkins University: Known globally for its quality healthcare programs, Johns Hopkins School of Nursing offers a variety of nursing degrees, including a top-ranked BSN program.
- University of Pennsylvania: The Penn Nursing Science program is renowned for its innovative curriculum and commitment to research, clinical practice, and policy.
- Duke University: The Duke University School of Nursing is known for its advanced nursing programs and state-of-the-art facilities.
- University of California - San Francisco: This university's School of Nursing offers a variety of nursing programs, with a strong emphasis on research and health policy.
- University of Washington: The School of Nursing at the University of Washington consistently ranks highly and offers a diverse array of nursing programs.
- Emory University: Emory's Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing offers comprehensive nursing programs with an emphasis on leadership and clinical skills.
Selecting the right major and institution is a crucial step in your nursing career journey. It provides the foundational knowledge and practical skills you'll need to excel in the dynamic, challenging, and rewarding world of nursing. Remember, the goal is to choose a path that aligns with your career aspirations and passion for healthcare.
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