Ohio’s Top-Rated Nursing Schools and Programs of 2024
Thinking about becoming a registered nurse (RN)? Ohio is a great place to start your nursing career. With a nationwide RN growth rate of 6% between 2020-2030, Ohio has an RN growth rate of 7% between 2021-2031. It predicts 7,990 annual RN job openings, meaning there will be plenty of nursing jobs to choose from in the state.
Ohio’s location provides easy access to major cities and attractions in the Midwest and beyond. Its proximity to both the bustling city of Chicago and the scenic beauty of the Great Lakes makes it an ideal base for travel and exploration.
Being home to a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, technology, and education, has made a diverse and vibrant economy for Ohio. The diverse economic landscape in Ohio creates various job opportunities and career growth potential for its residents. Additionally, Ohio’s relatively low cost of living compared to other states allows for a comfortable lifestyle without sacrificing financial stability.
Ohio is known for its world-class museums, theaters, and music festivals, providing ample opportunities for residents to engage in cultural experiences. Home to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland and the vibrant arts district in Columbus creates a vibrant and diverse cultural landscape that caters to a wide range of interests.
Pursuing a nursing career in Ohio can be rewarding and fulfilling. Ohio offers a thriving healthcare industry with numerous job opportunities and a supportive community for nurses. With a strong emphasis on patient care and a commitment to professional development, Ohio provides an ideal environment for nurses to grow and excel in their careers.
The Best Nursing Schools in Ohio
Learn more about the best nursing schools in Ohio to help determine which college may be best for you.
Our site has ranked the best nursing schools in Ohio based on the NCLEX-RN pass rates posted on the Ohio Board of Nursing website.
Ohio Nursing Programs:
#1 Ohio Nursing Program
Trinity Health System School of Nursing
Trinity Health System School of Nursing is a two-year RN diploma in nursing school in Steubenville, Ohio. Its program assists students in achieving educational outcomes that prepare them to meet the holistic healthcare needs of individuals, families, and communities throughout the lifespan. The school’s philosophy, “Education is a lifelong, dynamic, participative process through which the learner’s potential is actualized,” guides faculty to promote continuing formal education for student nurses. Upon graduating from the nursing program, graduates are given the opportunity to tailor an educational path to continue their education.
Average Tuition
In-State: $9,479
Out-of-State: $10,343
Show More
| Average In-State Tuition |
$9,479 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$10,343 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate Fiscal Year 2022 |
100% |
| Program Completion Rate 2022 |
Not given |
| Job Placement 2021 |
100% |
| Students Enrolled |
70 |
| Institution Type |
Two-year RN diploma nursing education program |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
Not given |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) |
#2 Ohio Nursing Program
Bryant & Stratton College
Bryant and Stratton College is a private college with campuses in Akron, Parma, and Solon, Ohio. They offer an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program that uses a combination of classroom, laboratory, and clinical experiences to build critical-thinking skills and prepare students for a career in the healthcare industry. Nursing students will develop a foundation in vital clinical decision-making processes and additional career-specific duties, including computer-aided instruction, telecommunications technology, clinical practice, and other technical learning strategies. Graduates of this associate degree program will be prepared for the various roles nurses are expected to perform in the 21st-century workplace.
Average Tuition
In-State: $19,065
Out-of-State: $19,065
Show More
| Average In-State Tuition |
$19,065 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$19,065 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2022 |
100% |
| Program Completion Rate 2021 |
Not given |
| Job Placement 2019-2021 |
Not given |
| Students Enrolled |
74 |
| Institution Type |
Private College |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
Not given |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the ACEN |
How to Choose a Nursing Program in Ohio
When choosing a nursing program in Ohio, you will want to look at the NCLEX-RN pass rates, admission and retention rates, and job placement rates. Programs with a high NCLEX-RN pass rate 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 meet your general education requirements before entering the program, so make sure you know what is required before entering the program.
Accreditation is important when choosing a nursing program. Some schools may transfer credits earned while receiving your RN, and some employers may only hire nurses who have completed their degrees through an accredited program.
Why Become a Nurse in Ohio
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 6% growth in nursing employment nationwide, and Ohio estimates a nursing growth of 7% from 2020-2030. This means there will be plenty of jobs to choose from.
U.S. News ranked Ohio 29th overall in healthcare. Healthcare access ranked 24th, healthcare quality ranked 23rd, and public health ranked 42nd. Despite having access to excellent medical facilities throughout the state, there is room for improvement in the health of the state’s residents. Working as a nurse in Ohio means that you can help drive changes to positively impact the state’s residents.
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that RNs in Ohio earn an average annual salary of $78,450. While this is below the national average, the cost of living in Ohio is also below the national average, which allows your dollar to stretch further.
Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Ohio
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average mean wage for an RN in Ohio is $78,450, and it employs 130,370 nurses. Ohio also employs 10,730 advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who make an average wage of $117,440.
The projected nationwide employment growth rate for registered nurses between 2021 and 2031 is 6%, with an anticipated 203,200 yearly job openings. Many of these job openings are expected due to workers retiring or transferring to different occupations.
| Top Paying Cities in Ohio for RNs |
| Cleveland-Elyria, OH |
$81,020 |
| Cincinnati, OH |
$80,740 |
| Columbus, OH |
$80,070 |
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 Ohio
To become an RN and advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), candidates must complete a program approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing. Upon completing an approved nursing program, candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
After gaining experience as an RN, some nurses 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.
Maintaining your nursing license requires meeting specific requirements. To become a nurse in Ohio, you must complete the following requirements:
RN Requirements
These are the steps to take to become an RN in Ohio:
- 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 have been issued your first RN license in Ohio, you must renew it every two years. RN licenses can be renewed from July 1st-October 31st on odd-numbered years. For the period immediately following Ohio licensure by NCLEX examination, the nurse is not required to complete any continuing education contact hours for the first license renewal. Afterward, nurses must complete 24 contact hours of continuing education, including at least one contact hour of Category A continuing education for each renewal period. A nurse who has been licensed in Ohio by reciprocity for less than or equal to one year prior to the first Ohio license renewal must complete at least 12 hours of continuing education instead of 24 hours.
APRN Requirements
These are the steps to become an APRN in Ohio:
- Candidates must hold an active RN license to practice in Ohio
- RNs must have earned their BSN before entering an APRN program.
- RNs must 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.
- Ohio APRN licenses must be renewed every two years between July 1st-October 31st on odd-numbered years. For the period immediately following Ohio licensure by NCLEX examination, the APRN is not required to complete any continuing education contact hours for the first license renewal. After that, APRNs must complete 24 hours of continuing education for each APRN license held. For CNPs, CNSs, or CNMs, at least 12 of the 24 contact hours must include continuing education in pharmacology. The 24 hours of continuing education to renew your APRN license are in addition to the 24 hours of continuing education to renew your RN license.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Ohio
Is Ohio a good place for nurses to work?
Ohio is a great place to work. There is a predicted 7% growth rate of RNs in the state between 2020-2030, which means there will be plenty of job openings to choose from. While the state has identified areas of improvement in healthcare, nurses can help make necessary changes to positively impact Ohio residents’ health.
Is Ohio a compact state for nursing?
Yes, Ohio is a compact state for nursing. This means that nurses who practice nursing in Ohio can also choose to practice nursing in other compact states and vice versa.
What are the requirements for RNs in Ohio?
After completing an accredited nursing program, you must successfully pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Once you have been issued your Ohio RN license, you must renew it every two years. RN licenses can be renewed from July 1st-October 31st on odd-numbered years. For the period immediately following Ohio licensure by NCLEX examination, the nurse is not required to complete any continuing education contact hours for the first license renewal. Afterward, nurses must complete 24 contact hours of continuing education, including at least one contact hour of Category A continuing education for each renewal period. A nurse who has been licensed in Ohio by reciprocity for less than or equal to one year prior to the first Ohio license renewal must complete at least 12 hours of continuing education instead of 24 hours.
How much does an Ohio RN license cost?
The initial licensure by exam in Ohio costs $200 with a $75 application fee. Renewing your Ohio license costs $65 between July 1st-September 15th and $115 between September 16th to October 31st.
