Nursing Schools in Maryland

Maryland offers a robust landscape for aspiring nurses, with 33 nursing schools across the state providing a range of programs to fit diverse career goals. Prospective students can choose from Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN), Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), and advanced practice programs such as Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Maryland is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing nurses licensed in the state to practice in other NLC member states without having to obtain a separate license.

The cost of nursing education in Maryland varies depending on the program and the institution. An LPN program typically costs between $10,000 and $20,000, while an ADN program can range from $20,000 to $40,000. A BSN program is generally more expensive, costing between $40,000 and $80,000.

Some of the most well-known nursing schools in Maryland include the University of Maryland School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, and the University of Baltimore School of Nursing. These schools offer a variety of programs, including traditional and accelerated BSN programs, MSN programs, and doctoral programs.

Maryland currently faces a nursing shortage, with a projected need for over 10,000 additional nurses by 2025. This shortage creates a strong job market for graduates, with competitive salaries and ample opportunities for career advancement.

Upon graduation, Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) can expect to earn a median annual salary of $66,460, while Registered Nurses (RNs) earn a median annual salary of $92,090. These salaries can vary depending on experience, location, and specialization.

To explore the diverse array of nursing programs available in Maryland, you can review the list of nursing schools we have compiled. This list provides information about each school, including the programs offered, tuition costs, and contact information.

Top RN Programs in Maryland

This year, we've compiled a list of top nursing schools in the state by examining NCLEX-RN pass rates from the last three years. Our analysis focused on schools with consistent graduate numbers and a minimum average pass rate of 80%. By looking at these rates, you can see which schools effectively prepare their students for the licensure exam and beyond. For a detailed breakdown of how we determined these rankings, visit our ranking methodology page.
Student Population
Small
College Type
2-year, Public
Average NCLEX-RN Pass Rate
98.3%
Average NCLEX-PN Pass Rate
100.0%

Available Programs


Student Population
Small
College Type
2-year, Public
Average NCLEX-RN Pass Rate
95.3%
Average NCLEX-PN Pass Rate
100.0%

Available Programs


Cecil College is located in North East, Maryland. This community college was established back in 1968. The school serves the community by offering a variety of academic programs at the most reasonable prices possible. Cecil College aims to provide a high-quality education to all who enter the doors. The school has many degree programs as well as certificate opportunities. Students will be able to earn an associate degree in many fields and will even have transfer options when looking to continue their education at a four-year university. Cecil College also offers students many flexible learning options such as eLearning, accelerated studies, and alternate pathways to certain degrees.

The nursing program at Cecil College is held in high regard. There are two different paths of study that students will be able to choose from. There is the practical nursing program which will lead to a certificate and the associate degree nursing program for those who wish to pursue careers as RNs. This program is fully approved by the Maryland State Board of Nursing and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.  The associate degree in nursing program also has the distinction of having continuous accreditation by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Cecil College also has transfer partnerships with universities that will allow students to pursue advanced degrees in nursing after graduation. 

Student Population
Medium
College Type
2-year, Public
Average NCLEX-RN Pass Rate
91.3%
Average NCLEX-PN Pass Rate
86.7%

Available Programs


Student Population
Medium
College Type
4-year, Public
Average NCLEX-RN Pass Rate
91.7%
Average NCLEX-PN Pass Rate
N/A

Salisbury University is a public university in Salisbury, Maryland. It is part of the University System of Maryland. The university was founded in 1925 as a two-year school to train elementary school teachers. It is now a four-year university offering 42 undergraduate and 14 graduate degree programs. These programs are offered through the five academic schools that comprise Salisbury University, including the College of Health and Human Services. The campus is in Salisbury, which is about 115 miles southeast of Baltimore, and includes 75 buildings spread across 183 acres. The nursing program is known for its selective admissions process and has the highest 10-year average for their NCLEX-RN exam pass rate, with an average pass rate of 91.6%.  

The university offers several BSN programs and two MSN program. These programs were first accredited by the CCNE in 2003. The undergraduate programs include traditional BSN, RN to BSN, and accelerated BSN programs. These programs include clinical practice at several area hospitals, clinics, and mental health care facilities. The university maintains small class sizes, with groups of no more than 8 students for clinical practice and simulation training. Students that have already earned their BSN may enroll in the MSN or RN to MSN program. 

Student Population
Medium
College Type
2-year, Public
Average NCLEX-RN Pass Rate
90.7%
Average NCLEX-PN Pass Rate
98.0%

Available Programs


Student Population
Small
College Type
2-year, Public
Average NCLEX-RN Pass Rate
89.3%
Average NCLEX-PN Pass Rate
97.3%

Hagerstown Community College is located in Hagerstown, Maryland. This school was established in 1946, and it offers students many different academic opportunities. There are a plethora of different credit-related courses. The school also has several non-credit courses that are focused on skill-building and professional development. Students in the community have been getting a great education at Hagerstown Community College for many decades. The variety of academic programs combined with convenient features such as online courses makes it a perfect fit for many students.

This school has a nursing program that offers students several opportunities, as well. Students will be able to pursue practical nursing courses and registered nursing courses. The registered nursing program also has several special programs to help LPNs, paramedics, and military medics or corpsmen to transition into careers as registered nurses. There are certified nursing assistant and certified medicine aide courses available, as well. All programs at the school are fully accredited by the Maryland State Board of Nursing and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Students will be able to learn high-level technical skills while participating in both laboratory and clinical experiences. 

Student Population
Large
College Type
4-year, Private
Average NCLEX-RN Pass Rate
87.7%
Average NCLEX-PN Pass Rate
N/A

Johns Hopkins University is a private research university in Baltimore, Maryland. It was founded in 1876 and is currently ranked 10th for its undergraduate programs. The university was established alongside the Johns Hopkins Hospital, which is also located in Baltimore. The university also manages a variety of campuses and departments, including the School of Nursing in East Baltimore. The School of Nursing was established in 1889 and is one of the oldest nursing schools in the United States. It has also ranked first in the country for nursing education multiple times over the years. 

The School of Nursing is located on the same campus as the Johns Hopkins Hospital and was established with the help of Florence Nightingale. The university offers traditional BSN, accelerated BSN, DNP, and PhD programs. The MSN program includes eight different specializations, including Nurse Practitioner and Nursing Education. These programs were accredited by the CCNE in 2003. The master’s program and doctoral program are offered on-campus and online. The university also offers an MSN (Entry into Nursing) Program for incoming students with a bachelor’s degree in a discipline other than nursing. Students receive simulated training at high-tech simulation laboratories and hands-on training at local clinics and Johns Hopkins Hospital. 

Student Population
Medium
College Type
4-year, Public
Average NCLEX-RN Pass Rate
87.3%
Average NCLEX-PN Pass Rate
N/A

Towson University (TU) was founded in 1866. It is a public institution that offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs and is part of the University System of Maryland. It was the first training school for teachers in the state and has evolved over the years to become a four-year university. It now enrolls over 20,000 students each year, making it one of the largest public universities in the state. Towson University was ranked the 8th-best public university in the Universities-Master's category. It has also been recognized in numerous rankings over the years, including receiving recognition for offering the best value for public colleges.

Prospective nursing students can earn degrees through four different nursing programs. Undergrad options include traditional BSN, accelerated BSN, and RN to BSN programs, which were accredited by the CCNE in 2001. There is also a CCNE-accredited MSN program for those that already have a BSN. The BSN program requires students to first complete a minimum of 42 undergraduate credits, including 3 laboratory science prerequisites. After these prerequisites are met, students may apply for admission to the BSN program. The school has a 91.22% NCLEX-RN exam pass rate, which exceeds the state average. Students will receive clinical experience through partnerships with Johns Hopkins Hospital and the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Student Population
Medium
College Type
2-year, Public
Average NCLEX-RN Pass Rate
87.0%
Average NCLEX-PN Pass Rate
100.0%

Frederick Community College (FCC) is located in Frederick, Maryland. FCC was established back in 1957. This school is dedicated to helping students to move forward in their lives. It provides students with various academic programs that can enrich their lives while opening up new career prospects. FCC has more than 85 degree programs and continuing education programs. It currently serves over 6,000 students and offers them all a safe college experience. The campus has on-site security that looks after the grounds 24/7. Students will be able to enjoy a smooth college experience while pursuing associate degrees, certificates, and diplomas.

 

FCC has a very thorough Associate's degree in nursing program. This program is designed to prepare students to give patients the best possible care in all medical environments. This school offers both daytime courses and night courses for students as a convenience. There is also a transition to RN program for LPNs, Army Medics, Paramedics, Navy Corpsmen, and Air Force Technicians. Students will be able to take advantage of several partnership agreements to transfer credits over to a bachelor degree program at a larger four-year school, as well. 

Student Population
Small
College Type
2-year, Public
Average NCLEX-RN Pass Rate
86.0%
Average NCLEX-PN Pass Rate
92.7%

Available Programs


Student Population
Small
College Type
2-year, Public
Average NCLEX-RN Pass Rate
86.3%
Average NCLEX-PN Pass Rate
94.7%

Available Programs


Carroll Community College is located in Westminster, Maryland. CCC was established back in 1976. This community college is an institution that is committed to providing accessible educational opportunities to the community. The goal of Carroll CC is to enrich the lives of all students who walk through the doors. This is accomplished by giving them access to fantastic academic programs that will give them many chances to advance their career prospects. CCC is an affordable community college that offers associate degrees and certificates. It is fully accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

 

The CCC nursing program gives students several options to pursue. There is a practical nursing program that will award graduates with a certificate and an associate degree in nursing program. CCC offers a fast track program for existing LPN's who wish to pursue becoming an RN. The learning experiences at the CCC nursing program will allow students to grow their skills the right way. All nursing students will be given classroom learning sessions, clinical experiences, and patient care simulations. The curriculum will all come together to give nursing students a complete education that will drive them to succeed in the future. Students at CCC note that the small class sizes allow them to get more time with the instructors, making it easier to thrive. The nursing program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (CNEA). 

Student Population
Small
College Type
2-year, Public
Average NCLEX-RN Pass Rate
85.3%
Average NCLEX-PN Pass Rate
100.0%

The College of Southern Maryland (CSM) is located in La Plata, Maryland. CSM is fully accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. This school was established in 1958 and is known for its motto “beyond expectations.” It is a college that seeks to help students achieve academic success that goes beyond their initial expectations. This large community college currently serves over 24,000 students and offers more than 120 programs of study. Students are able to pursue many associate degree programs, and there are also some certificate programs to consider. CSM also has several transfer partnerships with larger four-year universities, making it very simple to continue on to earn a bachelor degree at another school.

The CSM nursing program has proven to be an important part of school throughout the years. This school has been offering the Practical Nursing program for over four decades and the Associate Degree Nursing program for nearly as long. Students will also be able to enjoy an LPN to ADN program that helps existing LPNs to pursue becoming RNs. All nursing programs are approved by the Maryland State Board of Nursing. This school is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). It offers students the ability to learn through cutting edge technology and many practical experiences. This course will have many clinical experiences for students to participate in, and this will prepare them for their future as professional nurses. 

Student Population
Medium
College Type
2-year, Public
Average NCLEX-RN Pass Rate
84.7%
Average NCLEX-PN Pass Rate
83.3%

Available Programs


Student Population
Small
College Type
2-year, Public
Average NCLEX-RN Pass Rate
82.3%
Average NCLEX-PN Pass Rate
93.7%

Available Programs


Wor-Wic Community College is located in Salisbury, Maryland. This two-year institution was established back in 1975. It serves well over 10,000 students and offers them a large number of different academic programs to choose from. Wor-Wic offers students a great education that will help them to find careers that can enrich their lives. It has become a very popular schooling option in the community due to the low cost of tuition and the ability to transfer credits to the larger Salisbury University. Students can receive a great education at Wor-Wic that will help them to obtain their career goals. The school is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.

The nursing program is fully approved by the Maryland State Board of Nursing. Wor-Wic's nursing programs hold pre-accreditation status with the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation. There are two different paths for nursing students at this school. The first path is the certificate program for those who wish to become licensed practical nurses (LPNs). The second path is the associate degree program for those who wish to go on to become registered nurses (RNs). Associate degree graduates will also be able to take advantage of the transfer partnerships to any University of Maryland nursing school in order to pursue a bachelor degree. 

Student Population
Small
College Type
2-year, Public
Average NCLEX-RN Pass Rate
81.3%
Average NCLEX-PN Pass Rate
N/A

Harford Community College is located in Bel Air, Maryland. The school was established back in September of 1957 and has been serving the community dutifully ever since. This school allows students to pursue over 60 associate degree programs and over 20 certificate degree programs. As a member of the Maryland Associate of Community Colleges, this school offers students many academic paths. All of the courses at the school give students the chance to grow professionally and personally. There are also many popular student activities and clubs that students will be able to take part in. The athletics program at the school is very popular, too, and it is part of the National Junior College Athletic Association.

The nursing program at Harford Community College is one of the more popular programs that students sign up for. This school has a very good Associate of Sciences Degree Nursing Program that has helped many students to find successful careers in the field. Students will receive a complete education at this school that focuses on practice in the nursing skills lab using high-fidelity simulations. There will also be supervised clinical experiences at affiliated healthcare agencies. The nursing program at this school is fully approved by the Maryland State Board of Nursing and is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). 

Student Population
Medium
College Type
4-year, Public
Average NCLEX-RN Pass Rate
81.3%
Average NCLEX-PN Pass Rate
N/A
Student Population
Small
College Type
4-year, Private
Average NCLEX-RN Pass Rate
80.3%
Average NCLEX-PN Pass Rate
N/A

Available Programs


Student Population
Medium
College Type
2-year, Public
Average NCLEX-RN Pass Rate
80.3%
Average NCLEX-PN Pass Rate
87.0%

Available Programs


Student Population
Medium
College Type
2-year, Public
Average NCLEX-RN Pass Rate
80.3%
Average NCLEX-PN Pass Rate
N/A

Available Programs


Average NCLEX-RN Pass Rate
N/A
Average NCLEX-PN Pass Rate
N/A

Available Programs


Maryland's NCLEX-RN pass rate Vs. National Average

Maryland's NCLEX-PN pass rate Vs. National Average