If you are considering becoming a nurse in the U.S.’s South, start your search by finding some of the best southern nursing schools. Wherever you are located in the region, find top options for your journey and tips on how to choose the right school.
Starting your journey into nursing begins with choosing a school that aligns with your goals, schedule and future career plans. In the southern U.S., nursing programs vary in structure, support, and clinical opportunities. Understanding what sets strong southern nursing schools apart can help you narrow your options and confidently choose a school that prepares you for long-term success in the field.
If you hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree or a certain number of college credits, an accelerated nursing program could help you earn a degree in less time.
Explore why you should consider a nursing school in the southern U.S., what criteria to look for, and high-quality accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs accepting students.
Why Choose a Nursing School in the South?
Aside from living in a warmer climate, choosing a nursing school in the South can give you access to strong clinical experience, lower costs and growing job opportunities. Demand for nurses remains high nationwide, and many programs in the South have positive reputations.
Nursing School Criteria to Consider
Choosing the right nursing school isn’t always an easy decision. Where you decide to go is one of the most important decisions in your journey to becoming a nurse. While the decision ultimately depends on your individual needs, the factors below can help you evaluate the best nursing school for you.
Accreditation
When it comes to choosing a nursing school, accreditation is one of the most important factors to consider. Your ability to practice as a registered nurse depends heavily on your school’s accreditation, so make sure that the nursing school you’re considering is fully accredited by an organization like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). It also should be state approved.
Clinical Experience
Clinical experience is essential to your success as a practicing nurse. It teaches you how to adapt to real-world situations using critical thinking and decision-making skills. Choose schools that offer hands-on clinical experience in real healthcare settings at top facilities.
NCLEX-RN Pass Rates
After graduation, passing the NCLEX-RN is a required step to obtain licensure as a registered nurse. Choosing a school with a high NCLEX-RN pass rate is a useful way to assess program quality.
Flexibility
The best nursing school isn’t always about numbers. Different life circumstances can make some schools a better fit than others. Busy students may benefit from hybrid style learning models that combine online coursework with in-person experiences, and career changers may benefit from accelerated programs (ABSNs).
Cost
Almost every school will have different tuition. Evaluating the cost of the school while factoring in financial aid and scholarships can help you decide which schools are the best fit for you.
Following these criteria can help you choose the best nursing school for your goals and needs. Choosing a nursing school is a personal choice that should align strongly with your goals and needs. With that in mind, the list below highlights some high-quality nursing schools in the South.
Learn more about how to take advantage of financial resources and pay for your nursing education.
8 Top Southern Nursing Schools
If you’re thinking about becoming a nurse in the South, you will find many schools to choose from with varying levels of quality and resources. Here are seven of the top nursing schools in the South you can choose from.
Averett University—Norfolk, Virginia
Averett University is located in Norfolk, Virginia, the third-largest city in the state, known for its rich history and diverse population. Through Averett University’s ABSN program, you can earn your nursing degree in the heart of a robust healthcare industry.
Averett University, founded in 1859, focuses on preparing students to serve and lead. Their ABSN program provides non-nurses a chance to earn their BSN in as few as 16 months. They highlight how they build on your prior education to shape you into a compassionate leader focusing on evidence-based care.
If you’re interested in starting your nursing journey at Averett University or have any additional questions, fill out this form to request information.
Concordia University Texas—Dallas & Austin, Texas
Concordia University Texas' ABSN track is located in both Dallas and Austin, two major healthcare hubs with a vibrant culture and strong career prospects. Becoming a nurse through Concordia University Texas will allow you to be a part of this thriving culture and benefit from the city’s robust healthcare industry.
Concordia University Texas is a faith-based University, which prioritizes critical thought, compassionate action, and courageous leadership. Their ABSN curriculum emphasizes cultural diversity, spiritual care, ethics, and evidence-based practice. If you hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree or at least 60 credits, you could be eligible to complete the ABSN track in as few as 16 months.
To learn more about Concordia University Texas ABSN track in Dallas or Austin, fill out this form to request information.
Harding University—Rogers, Arkansas
Harding University is a faith-based university in Arkansas focused on preparing students to become the best nurses they can be. Through Harding University’s Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing track you can earn your BSN in the growing healthcare industry of Arkansas.
At Harding, eligible students can earn their BSN in as few as 16-months upon completion of prerequisite courses and additional admissions requirements. Harding University BSN graduates enjoyed a 100% first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate in 2024.
If you’re interested in starting your nursing journey at Harding University or would like to learn more, fill out this form to request information.
Marian University Nashville—Nashville, Tennessee
Marian University is a faith-based university known for providing students with a quality education rooted in Franciscan values. Their ABSN program operates learning site in Nashville, Tennessee, and is a strong option for students seeking top southern nursing schools. Nashville offers a distinctive culture and a familiar southern feel. In addition, it’s a national leader in healthcare, and home to the largest private hospital operator in the world.
Marian University’s ABSN program offers qualified applicants a chance to meet the growing demand for nurses in Tennessee in as little as 16 months. The program follows a rigorous hybrid format with highly personalized instruction and feedback. Upon graduation, students will have developed the skills needed to sit for and pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
To see if you’re qualified or for any additional questions, fill out this form to request information.
Mercer University—Atlanta, Georgia
If you’re interested in becoming a nurse in Georgia, Mercer University’s ABSN track is a strong choice. Located in Atlanta, an economic and cultural hub of the Southeast, the track allows students to graduate and start their careers in a city with strong employment opportunities.
Mercer is a university with more than 190 years of teaching history. They’re known for being a top nursing school in the U.S. You can earn your BSN at Mercer University in as few as 12 months after completing prerequisites and meeting admissions requirements. The program emphasizes clinical skills and the use of high-tech medical equipment.
If you’re interested in earning your nursing degree at Mercer University or have additional questions, fill out this form to request information.
Northeastern University Charlotte—Charlotte, North Carolina
Northeastern University is private, nonprofit university founded in 1898 in Boston, Massachusetts. They have opened several campuses throughout the country since then, including one in Charlotte, North Carolina. Northeastern University’s ABSN program in Charlotte offers nursing students a chance to go to one of the top New England colleges, but in the thriving healthcare industry of Charlotte.
Northeastern University’s ABSN program offers two pathways, second degree and transfer, through which students can earn a BSN in as little as 16 months. The program follows a hybrid learning model combining online coursework with in-person labs. Northeastern also emphasizes scholarship opportunities, making it a strong option for students seeking an affordable, high-quality education.
To learn more about Northeastern University’s program paths or scholarships, fill out this form to request information today.
University of the Incarnate Word—San Antonio, Texas
The University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) is another Texas school offering a high-quality nursing education. It is located in the historic and bustling city of San Antonio, known for its low cost of living and low unemployment rates. The healthcare industry in San Antonio continues to grow and dominates the economy. Here you can earn your nursing degree while being a part of this vibrant culture.
UIW is the largest catholic university in Texas, and fourth-largest private school in Texas. The University of the Incarnate Word’s ABSN track offers a chance to leverage your non-nursing degree into a BSN in as little as 16 months. Upon graduation, students are equipped with the skills and confidence to go on to practice as registered nurses. UIW also recognizes the value of holistically treating patients in addition to a clinical approach.
Fill out this form to request information about UIW’s ABSN path today.
University of St. Thomas Houston—Houston, Texas
The University of St. Thomas’s Houston (UST), Texas location is a great choice for those looking for quality southern nursing schools. UST is known as Houston’s Catholic University and offers students of all backgrounds a chance to learn in this bustling city.
The University of St. Thomas’s ABSN program is designed to provide non-nurses with the chance to leverage their prior education in as little as 12 months. Using a hybrid learning model, UST blends online coursework with in-person labs. It operates three learning sites across Houston, in Midtown, Sugar Land, and Shenandoah.
UST also emphasizes their high NCLEX-RN pass rate which is essential to practicing as a registered nurse. To enroll in UST’s ASBN program or to learn more, fill out this form to request information today.
Tips for Choosing the Right Southern Nursing Program
When it comes to choosing the right nursing school, there isn’t a catch-all answer. The truth is, choosing the right nursing school is a deeply personal question that requires serious thought and consideration. To help you make your decision, below will cover tips on making the best decision for your individual needs.
Regardless of which program and location you choose, see how to prepare for nursing school.
Affordability
For many students, one of the biggest deciding factors is cost. Break down your top choices and focus on the school that best matches your financial needs.
Location and Lifestyle
Southern cities offer a warmer climate, diverse populations, cultural activities and plenty of outdoor recreation year-round. They also vary in cost of living. Choose a school you can reasonably commute to or afford to live nearby.
Program Delivery Options
Many nursing schools offer hybrid learning models that combine online coursework with in-person labs. If you already have a college degree or a certain number of credits, it may make sense to accelerate your BSN through an ABSN program. These options can work well for older adults, career changers, and anyone looking to fast-track a nursing degree. Many ABSN programs also offer multiple start dates a year.
Check with your schools of interest to see which program offers the flexibility you need.
Start Your Nursing Journey Today
Now that you know some of the top nursing programs in the South, you can start your nursing journey today by filling out our online form. We will connect you with nursing schools that work with you. This service is free with no obligation.
