Connecticut’s Top-Rated Nursing Schools and Programs of 2024
With a national growth rate of 6%, there has never been a better time to go into nursing. Healthcare makes up 16% of Connecticut’s workforce, and nurses are in high demand. Connecticut employs 34,290 registered nurses (RNs), and the Connecticut Department of Labor predicts a growth rate of about 9% for RNs in this state. Needing 3,000 new nurses every year, Connecticut has a sufficient number of open RN jobs.
Connecticut provides an excellent opportunity to establish a successful career. It offers a diverse range of activities that cater to individuals of all ages – from those who enjoy being active to those who prefer a more relaxed setting. You can choose to live in either the city or the countryside, where you’ll have access to top-rated public schools, excellent healthcare, and various job prospects. Connecticut is desirable for living and working due to its top-ranked schools, low crime rate, and healthy population.
The cost of living is lower in Connecticut compared to nearby cities like Boston and New York. In addition, the state offers 40 highly-rated colleges and universities, perfect for getting the education needed to become an RN.
The Best Nursing Schools in Connecticut
Learn more about the best nursing schools in Connecticut to help you determine which college may be the best fit for you.
Our site has ranked the best nursing schools in Connecticut based on the NCLEX-RN pass rates posted on the Connecticut State Board of Nursing website. The schools are categorized into Associate Degree Nursing programs (ADN) and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs.
ADN Programs:
#1 Connecticut ADN Nursing Program
Northwestern Connecticut Community College
Northwestern Connecticut Community College (NCCC), located in Winsted, Connecticut, is comprised of six nursing programs across the community college system. Graduates from the program are prepared to handle the multi-faceted role of the professional nurse.
The program’s mission is to provide a dynamic educational experience for the preparation of safe, competent, entry-level practitioners of nursing. NCCC’s nursing program offers students an accelerated 18-month course of study that consists of four semesters. The courses in the program provide the foundation for the practice of nursing.
Average Tuition
In-State: $4,556
Out-of-State: $13,148
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| Average In-State Tuition |
$4,556 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$13,148 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2022 |
96% |
| Program Completion Rate 2019-2021 |
84% |
| Job Placement 2021 |
96% |
| Students Enrolled |
1,228 |
| Institution Type |
Public Community College |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
Not given |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) |
#2 Connecticut ADN Nursing Program
Three Rivers Community College
Three Rivers Community College located in Norwich, Connecticut, Three Rivers Community College provides a unique Associate Degree in Nursing program that is available on five of the college’s campuses.
This program spans four semesters and aims to equip registered nurses with the necessary skills to function professionally, utilizing up-to-date nursing practices. The program’s curriculum is based on courses from social and biological sciences, liberal arts, and nursing, which form the foundation for nursing practice.
Average Tuition
In-State: $4,496
Out-of-State: $13,548
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| Average In-State Tuition |
$4,496 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$13,548 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2022 |
94% |
| Program Completion Rate 2017-2018 |
66% |
| Job Placement 2019-2020 |
100% |
| Students Enrolled |
3,997 |
| Institution Type |
Public Community College |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
Not given |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the ACEN |
#3 Connecticut ADN Nursing Program
Capital Community College
Capital Community College located in Hartford, Connecticut, Capital Community College provides a four-semester Associate Degree in Nursing program. The program is specifically designed to prepare registered nurses to function effectively in their professional roles, utilizing up-to-date standards of nursing practice. This program is based on courses from social and biological sciences, liberal arts, and nursing, all of which provide the foundation of nursing practice. The mission of the nursing program is to support students’ aspirations to become registered nurses, advance in their education, and improve health within the communities served.
Average Tuition
In-State: $4,596
Out-of-State: $13,548
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| Average In-State Tuition |
$4,596 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$13,548 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2022 |
86% |
| Program Completion Rate 2017-2018 |
69.81% |
| Job Placement 2020 |
95% |
| Students Enrolled |
2,715 |
| Institution Type |
Public Community College |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
Not given |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the ACEN |
BSN Programs:
#1 Connecticut BSN Nursing Program
Sacred Heart University
Sacred Heart University, located in Fairfield, Connecticut, offers a BSN program where students can gain the knowledge and skills needed to provide top-notch care to patients.
The program teaches students to approach work with compassion, empathy, and altruism. The university provides five cutting-edge nursing labs and high-fidelity simulation labs which gives students a safe learning environment to master their nursing skills.
Average Tuition
In-State: $45,230
Out-of-State: $45,230
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| Average In-State Tuition |
$45,230 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$45,230 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2022 |
97% |
| Admission Rate |
66.1% |
| Retention Rate |
86% |
| Students Enrolled |
6,761 |
| Institution Type |
Private University |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
Not given |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) |
#2 Connecticut BSN Nursing Program
Southern Connecticut State University
Southern Connecticut State University, located in New Haven, offers various nursing programs such as a traditional BSN program, an accelerated BSN program, and an RN to BSN program.
These programs aim to prepare graduates with the necessary skills to deliver safe, compassionate, and evidence-based care to diverse communities while adhering to professional standards.
Average Tuition
In-State: $11,882
Out-of-State: $25,286
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| Average In-State Tuition |
$11,882 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$25,286 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2022 |
Accelerated Program: 100%,
Traditional BSN Program: 92% |
| Admission Rate |
82.9% |
| Retention Rate |
72% |
| Students Enrolled |
8,889 |
| Institution Type |
Public University |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
12% |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the CCNE |
#3 Connecticut BSN Nursing Program
Central Connecticut State University
Central Connecticut State University, located in New Britain, Connecticut, provides both a traditional BSN program and an RN to BSN program. Through experiential learning opportunities, students can develop and apply critical thinking, clinical reasoning and judgment, skill acquisition, and therapeutic communication.
Additionally, the university offers the chance to complete patient care scenarios in the XR simulation lab, which allows nursing students to practice delivering nursing care to virtual patients and families independently or in small groups.
Average Tuition
In-State: $11,542
Out-of-State: $24,946
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| Average In-State Tuition |
$11,542 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$24,946 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2022 |
96% |
| Admission Rate |
74.8% |
| Retention Rate |
74% |
| Students Enrolled |
7,748 |
| Institution Type |
Public University |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
25.13% |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the CCNE |
#4 Connecticut BSN Nursing Program
University of Saint Joseph
The University of Saint Joseph, located in West Hartford, Connecticut, offers an accelerated second degree in nursing and a traditional BSN program. The college’s nursing programs educate students for all levels of nursing practice by building on a firm foundation in the arts and sciences.
The mission of the program is to promote the growth of the whole person in a caring environment and foster strong ethical values, intellectual curiosity, personal integrity, and commitment to the health and well-being of society. The goal is to prepare graduates to practice the art and science of nursing, be effective leaders, and use evidence-based resources to improve the health of persons, families, and communities.
Average Tuition
In-State: $43,084
Out-of-State: $43,084
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| Average In-State Tuition |
$43,084 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$43,084 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2022 |
96% |
| Admission Rate |
78.3% |
| Retention Rate |
77% |
| Students Enrolled |
4,299 |
| Institution Type |
Private University |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
Not given |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the CCNE |
How to Choose a Nursing Program in Connecticut
When choosing a nursing program in Connecticut, you will want to look at the NCLEX-RN pass rates, admission and retention rates, and job placement rates. Programs that consistently have a high NCLEX-RN rate show that they provide their students with the tools and support to succeed and prepare them well to be RNs. You may also want to consider the cost of the program and scholarship opportunities, as a BSN program usually takes longer to complete. However, most ADN programs require you to complete your general education requirements before entering the program, so make sure you know what is required before entering the program.
Accreditation is also an important piece when choosing a nursing program. Programs that have undergone the accreditation process must meet specific standards to be accredited, and some state boards of nursing may only accept programs that are accredited. If you are thinking about continuing your education, some schools may only transfer the credits earned while receiving your RN if it was from an accredited program. Additionally, some employers may only hire nurses who have completed their degrees through an accredited program.
Why Become a Nurse in Connecticut
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, nursing employment is predicted to grow by 6% nationwide. Connecticut is predicted to need an additional 3,000 nurses each year, with an RN growth rate of 9%.
U.S. News ranks Connecticut fifth in healthcare, offering respected hospitals and nursing homes with low mortality rates. Connecticut was also ranked second in the nation for healthcare access, which means health services are more affordable and attainable than in other states.
Registered nurses in Connecticut enjoy some of the highest salaries in the country. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that RNs in the state earn an average annual salary of $94,260. Connecticut has a wealth of RN job openings, making it an ideal location for those seeking employment in the field.
Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Connecticut
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average mean wage for an RN in Connecticut is $94,260, and it employs 34,290 nurses. Connecticut also employs 2,910 advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who earn a median annual wage of $131,490.
The nationwide employment of registered nurses is projected to grow by 6% from 2021 to 2031, with about 203,200 openings for registered nurses projected each year. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transferred to different occupations or who leave the labor workforce to retire.
| Top Paying Connecticut Cities for RNs |
| Danbury, CT |
$99,540 |
| Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT |
$98,950 |
| New Haven, CT |
$96,060 |
| Waterbury, CT |
$95,380 |
Citation: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, at https://data.bls.gov/oes/#/home (visited February 25, 2022).
Steps to Becoming a Nurse in Connecticut
Candidates can take multiple steps and paths to become an RN and advanced practice registered nurse (APRN). Each candidate will be required to complete a program approved by the Connecticut State Board of Nursing. Connecticut has 8 fully approved ADN programs and 10 BSN programs. Upon completing an approved nursing program, candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
ADN programs and 10 BSN programs. Upon completing an approved nursing program, candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
After gaining experience as an RN, some nurses decide to return to school to obtain their APRN. After you have completed an APRN program, you will need to take the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) exam or the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) exam.
Each nursing license has specific requirements that need to be met to maintain your licensure. To become a nurse in Connecticut, you will need to complete the following requirements:
RN Requirements
These are the steps to take to become an RN in Connecticut:
- Enroll in an Associate Degree in Nursing Program (ADN) OR a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program (BSN).
- An ADN program usually takes two years, while a BSN program usually takes four years to complete. Courses can be taken in person or online. However, both programs may offer a part-time track that will take longer.
- After completing your chosen nursing program, you will be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam. In addition, you must submit your transcripts, proof of graduation, proof of primary residence, and complete a fingerprint and criminal background check to the state board of nursing to receive your license.
- Once you’ve received your RN license for Connecticut, it will expire in the first birth month following issuance and then need to be renewed annually. The state of Connecticut requires that every six years, all RNs complete one contact hour on screening for conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, risk of suicide, depression and grief, and suicide prevention training.
APRN Requirements
These are the steps to take to become an APRN in Connecticut:
- Candidates must hold an active RN license to practice in the state of Connecticut.
- RNs must have earned their BSN before entering an APRN program.
- RNs need to enter an accredited nursing program to earn their Master of Science in Nursing or Doctor of Nursing Practice.
- Once an APRN program has successfully been completed, you will be required to pass the certification exam and hold and maintain current certification as a nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, or nurse anesthetist from one of the following national organizations:
- American Nurses Credentialing Center
- National Certification Corporation for the Obstetric
- Gynecologic
- Neonatal Nursing Specialties
- Pediatric Nursing Certification Board
- American Association of Nurse Anesthetists
- American Academy of Nurse Practitioners
- Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation
- American Association of Critical-Care Nurses
- License renewal occurs every two years and requires 50 continuing education requirements in the following areas: five hours in pharmacotherapeutics, one hour in infectious diseases, one hour in risk management, one hour in sexual assault, one hour in domestic violence, one hour in cultural competency, and one hour in substance abuse.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Connecticut
Is Connecticut a good place for nurses to work?
Connecticut is a great place to work. It is the home to many highly ranked hospitals and was ranked second in the nation for healthcare access, which means that healthcare services are more affordable and attainable than in other states. It is also one of the top-paying states for RNs in the nation.
Is Connecticut a compact state for nursing?
No, Connecticut is not a compact state. To practice nursing in Connecticut, you will need to apply for a nursing license through the Connecticut State Board of Nursing website.
What are the requirements for RNs in Connecticut?
After completing an accredited nursing program, you must successfully pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Once you have your RN license, you must renew your license annually. Every six years, the Connecticut State Board of Nursing requires all RNs complete one contact hour on screening for conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, risk of suicide, depression and grief, and suicide prevention training.
How much does a Connecticut RN license cost?
The application fee to receive your RN license in Connecticut costs $180. It costs $110 to renew your Connecticut RN license annually.
