Delaware’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. Nursing employment in Delaware is projected to grow by 15% between 2020-2030, with 820 registered nurse (RN) job openings annually. This means there will be no shortage
of employment opportunities for RNs in Delaware.
Delaware has a lot to offer if you’re looking for a great place to live and work. Its stunning scenery, low taxes, and affordable housing make it a top choice for many. You’ll have access to some of the country’s best beaches, prestigious schools, and plenty of community parks and green spaces. Delaware is one of five states that don’t impose sales tax, which means shopping won’t break the bank. Additionally, its real estate tax rates are among the lowest in the country, making it an even more attractive option.
The Best Nursing Schools in Delaware
Learn more about the best nursing schools in Delaware to help determine which college may be the best fit for you.
Our site has ranked the best nursing schools in Delaware based on the NCLEX-RN pass rates posted on the Delaware State Board of Nursing website.
#1 Delaware Nursing Program
Margaret H. Rollins School of Nursing Beebe Healthcare
Margaret H. Rollins School of Nursing at Beebe Healthcare offers a diploma in nursing program located in Lewes, Delaware. Its state-of-the-art nursing program offers a comprehensive program that prepares graduates for the demands of a diverse healthcare profession. The 48-credit program can be completed in 60 weeks, which is a total of four semesters taken over the course of two years.
Average Tuition
In-State: $8,700 total for the program
Out-of-State: 8,700 total for the program
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| Average In-State Tuition |
$8,700 total for the program |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
8,700 total for the program |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2022 |
96.6% |
| Program Completion Rate 2022 |
60% |
| Job Placement 2022 |
100% |
| Students Enrolled |
78 |
| Institution Type |
Private College |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
Not given |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) |
#2 Delaware Nursing Program
Delaware Technical Community College-Charles L. Terry Jr. Campus
Delaware Technical Community College’s (DTCC) Charles L. Terry Jr. Campus, located in Dover, Delaware, offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) that prepares students for a career as an essential healthcare team member. Students will gain knowledge and essential skills for making a difference in the health of community members.
The program can be completed in five semesters, and advanced placement is available for students who are currently licensed practical nurses (LPNs) or nationally certified paramedics.
Average Tuition
In-State: $4,575
Out-of-State: $11,437.50
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| Average In-State Tuition |
$4,575 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$11,437.50 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2022 |
89.41% |
| Admission Rate 2020 |
70.7% |
| Job Placement 2022 |
Not given |
| Students Enrolled |
12,955 |
| Institution Type |
Public Community College |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
Not given |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the ACEN |
#3 Delaware Nursing Program
Delaware Technical Community College-Stanton Campus
The Stanton campus of Delaware Technical Community College, which is situated in Newark, Delaware, has an Associate Degree in Nursing program.
This program helps students become valuable members of the healthcare team. If you attend full-time, you can complete the program in five semesters. Individuals who hold an LPN or are nationally certified paramedics can apply for advanced placement in the program.
Average Tuition
In-State: $4,575
Out-of-State: $11,437.50
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| Average In-State Tuition |
$4,575 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$11,437.50 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2022 |
85.38% |
| Program Completion Rate 2019-2021 |
73% |
| Job Placement 2019-2021 |
Not given |
| Students Enrolled |
2,188 |
| Institution Type |
Public Community College |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
Not given |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the ACEN |
How to Choose a Nursing Program in Delaware
When choosing a nursing program in Delaware, 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. Keep in mind that most ADN programs require completion of general education requirements before enrollment, so be sure to check those requirements before applying.
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 Delaware
As a nurse in Delaware, you have the opportunity to positively impact the lives of residents and visitors. The hospitals in Delaware offer exceptional healthcare services to patients and prioritize accessibility. These hospitals also play a significant role in the state’s economy, serving as the largest private sector employer in the state and every county.
Many nursing positions are currently open, and more are predicted to open, with a 15% increase in the employment of RNs in Delaware from 2020-2030. Delaware is predicted to have 820 RN job openings annually, which means there will be numerous employment opportunities for nurses.
Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Delaware
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average mean wage for an RN in Delaware is $85,020, and it employs 11,490 nurses. Delaware also employs 940 advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who earn a median annual wage of $120,570.
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 Delaware Cities for RNs |
| Wilmington-DE |
$76,496 |
| Dover, DE |
$75,460 |
| Wyoming, DE |
$73,365 |
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 Delaware
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 Delaware State Board of Nursing. Delaware has six fully approved nursing 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 Delaware, you will need to complete the following requirements:
RN Requirements
These are the steps to take to become an RN in Delaware:
- 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, and 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 Delaware, you will be required to renew it every two years. In addition, Delaware requires all RNs to complete at least 30 hours of continuing education and practice nursing at least 1,000 hours in the past five years or 400 hours in the past two years.
APRN Requirements
These are the steps to take to become an APRN in Delaware:
- Candidates must hold an active RN license to practice in the state of Delaware (or another compact license state).
- 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 a certification exam for one of the following roles:
- Nurse Practitioner
- Certified Midwife
- Clinical Nurse Specialist
- Certified Registered Anesthetist
- Your APRN license expires on the same date as your RN license. To be eligible for renewal, you must attest that you have met one of the following practice requirements in the role and population focus area in which you are licensed: practice of 1,500 hours over the past five years in the specialty, or practice of 600 hours over the past two years in the specialty, or graduation from the specialty program within the last two years.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Delaware
Is Delaware a good place for nurses to work?
Yes. Despite its small size, Delaware has a high demand for registered nurses, with a growth rate of 15%. In addition, nurses practicing in Delaware enjoy the benefits of low taxes, no sales tax, and a mean annual salary of $85,020, making it an excellent place to pursue a nursing career.
Is Delaware a compact state for nursing?
Yes, Delaware is a compact state. You can practice nursing in Delaware if you hold an active RN compact license in another compact state. Likewise, you can practice nursing in another compact state with an active Delaware compact nursing license.
What are the requirements for RNs in Delaware?
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 every two years and complete 30 hours of continuing education.
How much does a Delaware RN license cost?
The application fee to receive your RN license in Delaware costs $170. You will be notified of the renewal fee amount at the time of renewal.
