Best Nursing Schools in Norfolk, VA 2025 – Accredited Nursing Degree Programs Online

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Norfolk, VA, is a city teeming with opportunities for nursing students. Its vibrant healthcare sector, diverse clinical experiences, commitment to research, and community engagement make it an ideal location for aspiring nurses to cultivate their skills and knowledge. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2022), around 15,070 registered nurses are employed in the Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News metropolitan area, highlighting the ongoing demand for nursing professionals in the city.

In this article, our team has explored the diverse and abundant opportunities available to nursing students in Norfolk. To help you find the best nursing major and nursing schools in Norfolk, Virginia that can fulfill your educational and career goals, our research team has assessed the most popular options on the market. We have evaluated them according to their academic quality, curriculum, reputation, and other important factors.

Best Nursing Programs in Norfolk, VA 2025 Table of Contents

The State of Nursing in Norfolk
Why become a nurse in Norfolk?
2025 Top-Ranked Entry-Level Nursing Programs in Norfolk, Virginia
2025 List of Bridge Programs at the Best Nursing Schools in Norfolk, Virginia
2025 Best Advanced Programs at the Best Nursing Schools in Norfolk, Virginia
How do Norfolk nursing programs prepare students for leadership roles in healthcare?
How can nursing students finance their education in Norfolk, VA?
How does Norfolk's healthcare community support nursing students?
How Can ADN Graduates Transition to Advanced Practice Roles?
Exploring Flexibility in Advanced Nursing Education
Are Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Programs the Right Choice for Advanced Practice?
Can I Transition from a BSN Directly to a DNP Online?
How Do Online Nurse Practitioner Program Costs Compare?
What Criteria Should I Use to Evaluate Online DNP Programs?

The State of Nursing in Norfolk

The nursing sector in Norfolk, VA, is characterized by a growing demand for healthcare services, a commitment to education and research, and active community involvement. Nurses in Norfolk play a vital role in meeting the community’s healthcare needs, and the city’s healthcare institutions and educational programs are dedicated to preparing the next generation of nursing professionals.

Much like the rest of the United States, the city is experiencing an aging population, resulting in an increased demand for healthcare services. According to a recent report, the projected share of seniors in the population of Norfolk, VA, is expected to rise by 19%, above the predicted national and Virginia averages (Old Dominion University, 2023). This could pose a problem especially since reports indicate that there are only 7.76 nurses per 1,000 Virginia residents.

Furthermore, Norfolk is home to several major healthcare institutions, including Sentara Norfolk General Hospital and Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS). These institutions require a substantial nursing workforce to meet the healthcare needs of the community.

Why become a nurse in Norfolk?

Norfolk, Virginia, offers a compelling environment for those considering a nursing career. With a thriving healthcare sector, a range of job opportunities, competitive salary outlooks, and high job satisfaction rates, Norfolk provides nurses with a fulfilling and rewarding professional journey. In fact, 91% of Virginia nurses report overall job satisfaction, as revealed by the most recent nursing workforce survey by the Virginia Board of Nursing.

Consequently, nursing students in Norfolk benefit from various clinical settings that offer valuable hands-on experience. Local hospitals, clinics, nursing schools in Norfolk, Virginia, and long-term care facilities serve as invaluable training grounds, arming future nurses with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the complexities of real-world patient care.

Abundant Job Opportunities

Norfolk’s healthcare ecosystem is marked by its numerous healthcare facilities, including Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters, and Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS). These institutions, among others, offer diverse nursing positions across various specialties, including medical-surgical, critical care, pediatrics, and more.

Impact of Military Presence on Nursing Careers in Norfolk

Norfolk's unique position as a major military hub significantly influences its healthcare landscape, offering nurses distinctive career opportunities, particularly in veterans’ healthcare. The city is home to the largest naval base in the world, Naval Station Norfolk, and nearby military facilities like the Naval Medical Center Portsmouth. These establishments cater to military personnel and their families, creating a need for specialized nursing services. For nurses interested in working with veterans or military families, Norfolk provides a range of roles, including those focused on mental health, rehabilitation, and specialized military healthcare.

Nurses pursuing advanced practice roles, such as psychiatric nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), may also find opportunities to work with veterans dealing with PTSD, substance abuse, and other mental health issues. Given the rising demand for mental health services, military healthcare providers are increasingly seeking skilled PMHNPs. For those interested in pursuing this path, finding the most affordable PMHNP programs can provide an efficient way to enter this high-demand field.

Incorporating military-focused nursing opportunities into your career planning is crucial for those in Norfolk, as the presence of military families offers stability and diverse patient populations. Understanding the unique healthcare needs of this group can provide nurses with invaluable experience and expand their career prospects.

Stable, Lucrative Careers

Generally, nurses in Virginia earn more each year compared to those in neighboring states like West Virginia, Tennessee, Kentucky, and North Carolina (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022a). More specifically, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2022b), the median annual wage for registered nurses in the Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News metropolitan area is $79,450. Meanwhile, nurse practitioners in the area earn much higher annual wages of $113,090. Salary levels, however, may vary depending on factors such as experience, specialization, and location within Norfolk.

Opportunities for Career Advancement

The healthcare landscape and wide range of nursing schools in Norfolk, Virginia provide nurses with various paths for career advancement. Whether pursuing advanced practice roles like nurse practitioner or nurse anesthetist, becoming a nurse educator, or engaging in healthcare leadership, nurses in Norfolk have access to diverse opportunities for professional growth.

2025 Top-Ranked Entry-Level Nursing Programs in Norfolk,Virginia

Entry-level nursing programs from nursing schools in Norfolk, Virginia provide a solid foundation for aspiring nurses and prepare them for the challenges of the healthcare field. For instance, many nursing schools offer ADN programs that have played a crucial role in diversifying the nursing workforce and providing opportunities for individuals who might not have access to a four-year education. These programs have been instrumental in increasing the number of RNs in the workforce. In fact, more than a third of nursing schools in the U.S. (34.4%) now offer ADN programs (National League for Nursing, 2022a).

In this list, we highlight five exemplary entry-level nursing programs in Norfolk and surrounding cities, encompassing options like CNA classes in Norfolk, VA students can enroll in, Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs, Associate Degrees in Nursing (ADN), and direct-entry Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs.

1. Tidewater Community College, CNA Program

Tidewater Community College offers a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program. These programs equip students with essential nursing skills and knowledge, preparing them to enter the healthcare workforce. The college’s reputation for high-quality education and clinical training makes it a top choice for those pursuing CNA or LPN programs in Norfolk, VA.

Program Length: 8-16 weeks
Cost per Credit: $126.77
Required Credits to Graduate: 12 credits
Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)

2. Fortis College, Associate Degree in Nursing

The Norfolk, VA campus of Fortis College offers an ADN program that prepares students for licensure as RNs upon graduation. This program is a great choice for working nurses since courses are delivered in a hybrid format. LPNs and LVNs may also receive academic credit for their previous education.

Program Length: No information available
Cost per Credit: No information available
Required Credits to Graduate: No information available
Accreditation: Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (institutional)

3. Old Dominion University School of Nursing, BSN Program

Old Dominion University‘s School of Nursing offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program for individuals with diverse educational backgrounds, even those with non-nursing degrees. The program’s comprehensive curriculum and experienced faculty make it a top choice for career changers seeking a BSN education.

Program Length: 5 semesters
Cost per Credit: $577
Required Credits to Graduate: 120
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

4. Centura Institute, LPN Program

Centura Institute in Virginia offers a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program with a diverse range of courses, including Anatomy & Physiology, Mathematics for Nurses, and Medical Surgical Nursing. Centura College’s commitment to student success and career readiness sets it apart in the LPN education landscape.

Program Length: 15 months
Cost per year: $13,174
Required Credits to Graduate: 48
Accreditation: Accrediting Commission of Careers Schools and Colleges (institutional)

5. Norfolk State University, Direct-Entry BSN Program

Norfolk State University nursing programs offer a Direct-Entry Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program to students with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees. This program equips students with the skills and expertise needed to excel as registered nurses. Norfolk State’s emphasis on diversity and community engagement enhances the educational experience.

Program Length: 4 years
Cost per Credit: $490
Required Credits to Graduate: 171
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

2025 List of Bridge Programs at the Best Nursing Schools in Norfolk, Virginia

Bridge programs at nursing schools in Norfolk, VA are educational pathways designed to help individuals with varying levels of prior education and experience in nursing advance their careers or transition into different nursing roles. These programs are often tailored to meet the specific needs of students based on their current qualifications and goals.

In particular, Registered Nurses (RNs) pursue bridge programs like an online RN-to-BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program to access a wider range of job opportunities and career advancement prospects. Many healthcare institutions now prefer or require their nursing staff to hold a BSN, especially for leadership roles and specialized positions. Based on a recent report from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (2022), 72% of employers strongly prefer to hire BSN program graduates. The cost of RN to BSN programs varies, and individuals considering such educational paths should carefully assess the financial implications alongside the potential benefits for their career growth.

Here are some examples of bridge programs in nursing schools in Norfolk, Virginia.

1. Tidewater Community College, LPN to ADN Program

Tidewater Community College offers a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) bridge program. This pathway allows LPNs to advance their education and become registered nurses (RNs) through a comprehensive curriculum that builds upon their prior nursing knowledge and experience.

Program Length: 12 months
Cost per Credit: $126.77
Required Credits to Graduate: 64
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

2. Eastern Shore Community College, LPN to BSN Program

LPNs looking to gain in-depth knowledge and achieve their RN license can enroll in the LPN to BSN program at Eastern Shore Community College. Students enrolled in the program collaborate closely with mentors to ensure they’re ready to transition into RN roles. Courses also include critical care nursing, nursing care of children, and professional issues in nursing.

Program Length: 2 years
Cost per Year: $41,410
Required Credits to Graduate: 60
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

3. Old Dominion University, RN to BSN Program

Old Dominion University offers an RN to BSN program that helps registered nurses (RNs) with an associate degree or diploma in nursing complete their BSN degree. The program provides online courses, making it accessible to working nurses in Norfolk.

Program Length: 1 year
Cost per Credit: $577
Required Credits to Graduate: 63
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

4. Norfolk State University, RN to BSN

Norfolk State University offers a bridge program that allows LPNs to transition into the RN role by completing necessary coursework and clinical training. This post-licensure program is considered highly competitive, as its curriculum prepares students to be leaders in the workplace. To be admitted to the program, applicants must complete 88 credits of pre-requisite general courses and courses in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and child psychology, among others.

Program Length: 9 to 18 months
Cost per Credit: $450
Required Credits to Graduate: 64
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

2025 Best Advanced Programs at the Best Nursing Schools in Norfolk, Virginia

Advanced nursing degrees encompass graduate-level programs to equip nurses with specialized expertise and competencies beyond the foundational education required for registered nurse (RN) status. Several notable specializations within advanced nursing degree programs include roles like nurse practitioners (NP), nurse anesthetists (CRNA), and nurse midwives (CNM). Pursuing an MSN or a doctoral degree in nursing can also pave the way for a career as a nurse educator, with nearly 79.1% of doctorate degree holders in nursing assuming roles as educators and often serving as key administrators within their educational institutions (National League for Nursing, 2022b). Moreover, individuals seeking to advance their careers from a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) may explore BSN to MSN programs online, which offer a convenient and flexible pathway for further professional development.

So, what are the qualifications to become a nurse practitioner? To become a nurse practitioner, individuals typically need a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, obtain a registered nurse (RN) license, and complete a master’s or doctoral-level nurse practitioner program accredited by a recognized nursing organization. They must also pass a national certification exam in their chosen nurse practitioner specialty area, such as family, pediatric, or adult-gerontology, to practice independently.

You can find a variety of advanced nursing programs in Norfolk, VA to cater to diverse career aspirations. Here are five examples of advanced nursing programs from nursing schools in Norfolk, Virginia:

1. Old Dominion University School of Nursing, MSN Program

Old Dominion University offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program with various specialization tracks, such as Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Nurse Educator, and Nurse Administrator. They also offer post-master’s certificates for nurses seeking additional certifications in various advanced practice areas.

Program Length: 12 to 18 months
Tracks/concentrations: Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, Nurse Manager
Cost per Credit: $577
Required Credits to Graduate: 60
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

2. Sentara College of Health Sciences, MSN Program

Sentara College offers an MSN program with concentrations such as Nurse Educator, Nurse Administrator, and Nurse Practitioner. Additionally, they provide post-master’s certificates for nurses looking to expand their expertise.

Program Length: 12 to 18 months
Tracks/concentrations: Nursing Administration, Nursing Informatics, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Cost per Credit: $375
Required Credits to Graduate: 36 to 60 credits
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

3. Regent University, MSN Program

Regent University in Virginia Beach, near Norfolk, offers a Master in Nursing program with multiple concentrations. This program is designed for registered nurses already with a bachelor’s degree and allows RNs to further specialize as nurse educators, family nurse practitioners, and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioners.

Program Length: 3 years
Tracks/concentrations: Nurse EducatorNurse Leadership & ManagementFamily Nurse Practitioner (FNP)Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
Nurse Educator
Nurse Leadership & Management
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
Cost per Semester: $3,480
Required Credits to Graduate: 60 to 90 credits
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

4. University of Virginia, DNP Program

The University of Virginia offers the terminal Doctor of Nursing Practice program to RNs interested in working in leadership roles, such as nurse administrators, or as nursing professors. This program is available in post-BSN and post-MSN pathways to allow students to seamlessly transition to a topnotch online doctorate degree in nursing, no matter their educational level.

Program Length: 2 to 4 years
Tracks/concentrations: None
Cost per Credit: $862 per credit (in-state), $1,407 per credit (out-of-state)
Required Credits to Graduate: depends on pathway
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

How do Norfolk nursing programs prepare students for leadership roles in healthcare?

Leadership skills are essential for nurses who aspire to take on management roles, mentor other healthcare professionals, or shape policies within healthcare organizations. Many nursing programs in Norfolk, VA, are designed to cultivate leadership qualities, preparing students for advanced roles beyond bedside care.

Leadership and Management Courses: Several nursing programs, such as those offered at Old Dominion University and Norfolk State University, include courses specifically focused on nursing leadership and management. These courses cover topics like healthcare administration, strategic planning, budgeting, and human resources management, helping students develop the necessary skills to lead healthcare teams and manage resources effectively.
Clinical Leadership Opportunities: During clinical rotations, nursing students have opportunities to take on leadership roles in real healthcare settings. These hands-on experiences provide insight into managing healthcare teams, overseeing patient care plans, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals to optimize patient outcomes.
Mentorship Programs: Some nursing schools in Norfolk, such as Sentara College of Health Sciences, offer mentorship programs where experienced nurse leaders mentor nursing students. This guidance helps students develop confidence and problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios, essential for future leadership roles.
Advanced Degree Programs: For those interested in higher-level leadership roles, Norfolk offers advanced degree programs, such as Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), with concentrations in leadership and management. These programs provide a deeper understanding of healthcare systems, policy, and executive leadership.

By integrating leadership-focused coursework, clinical opportunities, mentorship, and advanced degrees, Norfolk's nursing programs equip students with the expertise and confidence needed to excel in leadership positions within the healthcare field.

How can nursing students finance their education in Norfolk, VA?

Norfolk nursing students can access a broad range of financial support options to ease educational costs and secure academic success. Many institutions feature dedicated financial aid offices that offer guidance on federal and state grants, scholarship applications, and competitive work-study programs tailored for nursing candidates. Local community organizations and healthcare partners further contribute by providing supplemental funding specifically for nursing education. For students considering a transition from allied health roles, exploring pathways such as the medical assistant to LPN program may also offer unique financial incentives. Proactive consultation with academic advisors and continuous research into available funding options are essential steps in developing a sustainable financial strategy for a nursing career in Norfolk.

How does Norfolk’s healthcare community support nursing students?

Norfolk’s healthcare community plays a pivotal role in shaping the educational and professional experiences of nursing students. Through partnerships, mentorships, and real-world clinical opportunities, local healthcare institutions ensure students receive comprehensive training that prepares them for the complexities of modern healthcare.

1. Collaborative Partnerships with Hospitals. Leading hospitals like Sentara Norfolk General Hospital and Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters partner with nursing schools to provide clinical rotations. These experiences expose students to diverse healthcare environments, from acute care to pediatrics, allowing them to apply classroom knowledge to real-world patient care.

2. Mentorship and Professional Guidance. Many institutions in Norfolk, such as Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS), offer mentorship programs where experienced nurses and healthcare professionals guide students through their academic and clinical journeys. This mentorship fosters confidence, problem-solving skills, and professional connections that are invaluable in building a nursing career.

3. Community Health Engagement Opportunities. Nursing programs in Norfolk emphasize community engagement, enabling students to participate in public health initiatives. From wellness clinics to health education events, students gain hands-on experience addressing local health disparities, preparing them to work with diverse populations.

4. Military and Veteran Healthcare Experience. Norfolk’s proximity to military bases, including Naval Station Norfolk, offers unique opportunities for nursing students to gain experience in military and veteran healthcare settings. Through internships and clinical placements, students develop skills in treating service members, veterans, and their families, addressing complex physical and mental health needs.

By integrating clinical practice with mentorship and community outreach, Norfolk’s healthcare ecosystem ensures nursing students are well-equipped to transition seamlessly into professional roles. For more information on nursing programs tailored to diverse career goals, visit our guide on the easiest nursing schools to get into.

How Can ADN Graduates Transition to Advanced Practice Roles?

For nurses holding an ADN looking to advance their careers, targeted bridge programs offer structured pathways to achieve advanced practice roles while maintaining work-life balance. These programs integrate specialized coursework with intensive clinical training to help ADN graduates evolve into nurse practitioners and other advanced positions. Selecting a program that aligns with individual career goals and local market demands is essential in transitioning smoothly. For more detailed options and program structures, consider exploring online ADN to NP programs.

Exploring Flexibility in Advanced Nursing Education

One of the remarkable aspects of pursuing nursing in Norfolk, VA, is the access to flexible educational opportunities that align with today's dynamic healthcare demands. For nurses aiming to advance their careers with minimal disruption to their current roles, programs offering online or hybrid models are particularly valuable.

For instance, individuals interested in advanced practice roles, such as Family Nurse Practitioners (FNPs), can explore tailored educational paths that cater to their schedules. Programs categorized as the shortest nurse practitioner programs provide accelerated tracks for qualified candidates, allowing them to achieve their goals efficiently while maintaining work-life balance. These initiatives not only expedite career progression but ensure that participants acquire rigorous training suitable for modern healthcare requirements.

Furthermore, Norfolk nursing schools collaborate with national and regional platforms to deliver convenient transitions between educational levels. Whether through RN-to-MSN pathways or post-master’s certificate options, such programs demonstrate a commitment to fostering professional growth while accommodating diverse learner needs. This adaptability strongly positions Norfolk as a hub for nursing excellence in both traditional and non-traditional learning environments.

Nursing Opportunities in Norfolk, VA

Pursuing nursing in Norfolk, VA, is undeniably a wise choice. The city’s thriving healthcare sector, top-ranked nursing programs, abundant job opportunities, competitive salaries, community engagement opportunities, and overall quality of life create an environment that nurtures nursing excellence and personal fulfillment. Nursing schools in Norfolk, Virginia also offer plenty of opportunities for students with different career goals to get the education they need.

Whether looking for the fastest way to become a nurse, starting your nursing journey, or seeking career advancement, Norfolk offers the resources and support needed to thrive in this noble and rewarding profession.

Are Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Programs the Right Choice for Advanced Practice?

Advanced PMHNP programs offer a unique avenue for nurses seeking specialized expertise in mental health care. These programs provide a focused curriculum that integrates evidence-based psychiatric treatments, advanced clinical simulations, and supervised patient interactions, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to manage complex mental health conditions. Institutions often design flexible learning schedules and supportive resources to accommodate working professionals while maintaining high educational standards. For a detailed assessment of program affordability and quality, explore the most affordable online PMHNP programs.

Can I Transition from a BSN Directly to a DNP Online?

Nursing professionals seeking swift career advancement may explore direct pathways from a BSN degree to a doctoral level without intermediate steps. Accredited online programs offer a streamlined curriculum that integrates advanced clinical practice, leadership, and research components to prepare graduates for high-level responsibilities. These programs are structured to accommodate working nurses, enabling flexible enrollment schedules and accelerated learning trajectories. Prospective students should verify accreditation status, clinical placement opportunities, and faculty expertise to ensure quality education and improved professional outcomes. For a comprehensive list of accredited options, consider exploring BSN to DNP programs online.

How Do Online Nurse Practitioner Program Costs Compare?

When evaluating online nurse practitioner programs, cost considerations extend beyond tuition fees to include expenses like technology fees, clinical placement costs, and additional administrative charges. Our comprehensive nurse practitioner program cost comparison article can offer valuable insights into the overall affordability and value of each program. Prospective students are encouraged to assess financial aid possibilities and long-term return on investment, ensuring that the chosen program aligns with both educational goals and budgetary requirements.

What Criteria Should I Use to Evaluate Online DNP Programs?

Prospective nursing professionals should assess online DNP programs based on accreditation, curriculum relevance, faculty expertise, clinical placement opportunities, and cost efficiency. Detailed evaluation of program outcomes—such as graduation rates, certification pass rates, and alumni career advancements—is essential. In addition, examine the flexibility of the program structure to ensure it aligns with both personal and professional commitments. For candidates looking for accelerated options, exploring short DNP programs can offer a time-efficient pathway to advanced practice without compromising educational quality.

Is an Accelerated RN-to-BSN Option Suitable for Career Growth?

Accelerated RN-to-BSN programs offer a condensed curriculum that enables registered nurses to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in less time, without compromising educational rigor. These programs are structured for professionals who seek to quickly upgrade their academic credentials and expand career opportunities in leadership, advanced practice, or further graduate study. The accelerated format ensures that clinical practicums and academic coursework are carefully integrated, streamlining the transition to roles that require a BSN credential. For example, explore the 6 month RN to BSN program online as a model of efficiency and flexibility, designed to meet the demands of a dynamic healthcare environment.

Key Insights

High Demand for Nurses: Norfolk, VA, and the surrounding metropolitan area employ around 15,070 registered nurses, indicating a strong and ongoing demand for nursing professionals.
Competitive Salaries: Nurses in Norfolk earn competitive salaries, with registered nurses making a median annual wage of $79,450 and nurse practitioners earning $113,090.
Diverse Clinical Opportunities: Norfolk offers a variety of clinical settings for hands-on experience, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and specialized healthcare institutions like Sentara Norfolk General Hospital and Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters.
Educational Excellence: Norfolk hosts several top-ranked nursing schools that provide comprehensive education programs, from entry-level CNA and LPN programs to advanced MSN and DNP degrees.
Career Advancement: Numerous bridge programs and advanced degree options are available for nurses seeking to enhance their skills and take on leadership roles. Programs such as RN to BSN, MSN, and DNP offer pathways for professional growth.
Community Engagement: Nursing schools in Norfolk emphasize community engagement, preparing students to meet the healthcare needs of an aging population and diverse community.
Research and Innovation: Institutions like Old Dominion University and Eastern Virginia Medical School foster a commitment to research and innovation in healthcare, providing students with opportunities to participate in cutting-edge studies.

FAQ

Is Norfolk, VA, a good place to pursue a nursing career?

Yes, Norfolk, VA, is an excellent place to pursue a nursing career due to its vibrant healthcare sector, diverse clinical experiences, competitive salaries, and a strong commitment to education and research in nursing.

What are the top nursing schools in Norfolk, VA?

Top nursing schools in Norfolk, VA, include Tidewater Community College, Fortis College, Old Dominion University, Centura Institute, and Norfolk State University. These institutions offer a range of programs from entry-level to advanced nursing degrees.

What types of entry-level nursing programs are available in Norfolk?

Norfolk offers a variety of entry-level nursing programs, including Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) programs, Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs, Associate Degrees in Nursing (ADN), and direct-entry Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs.

How long does it take to complete a nursing program in Norfolk, VA?

The duration of nursing programs in Norfolk varies. CNA programs can take 8-16 weeks, LPN programs around 15 months, ADN programs about 2 years, and BSN programs approximately 4 years. Advanced programs like MSN and DNP can take 1-4 years depending on the pathway.

What are the costs associated with nursing programs in Norfolk?

Tuition costs for nursing programs in Norfolk vary by institution and program type. For example, the cost per credit at Old Dominion University is $577 for BSN and MSN programs, while the annual cost for the LPN program at Centura Institute is $13,174. Financial aid and scholarships are available at many institutions to help offset these costs.

Are there bridge programs available for nurses in Norfolk?

Yes, there are several bridge programs available in Norfolk, such as LPN to ADN, LPN to BSN, RN to BSN, and RN to MSN programs. These programs allow nurses to advance their education and career opportunities.

What advanced nursing programs are offered in Norfolk?

Advanced nursing programs in Norfolk include Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degrees with various specializations such as Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, Nurse Administrator, and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

What is the job outlook for nurses in Norfolk, VA?

The job outlook for nurses in Norfolk is promising, with a growing demand for healthcare services and an aging population. Nurses in Norfolk can find abundant job opportunities in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.

What are the benefits of becoming a nurse in Norfolk, VA?

Benefits of becoming a nurse in Norfolk include high job satisfaction, competitive salaries, diverse clinical experiences, opportunities for career advancement, and a supportive healthcare and educational environment.

How can I apply to nursing programs in Norfolk, VA?

To apply to nursing programs in Norfolk, you typically need to research and meet the admission requirements of the specific program, which may include completing prerequisite courses, submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statements, and passing entrance exams. Application details can be found on the respective nursing school’s website.

What opportunities do Norfolk nursing schools offer for gaining experience in military and veteran healthcare?

Norfolk nursing schools provide unique opportunities for students to gain experience in military and veteran healthcare, thanks to the city's close proximity to several military bases, including Naval Station Norfolk, the largest naval base in the world. Nursing students can participate in clinical rotations and internships at military hospitals and VA medical centers, where they learn to address the specific health needs of active-duty service members, veterans, and their families. These experiences expose students to a range of medical conditions, from combat-related injuries to mental health issues, and prepare them to deliver compassionate, specialized care in military and veteran healthcare settings.

References:

American Association of Colleges of Nursing. (2022). New graduate employment data. AACN
National League for Nursing. (2022a). Distribution of Nursing Schools By Nursing Type. National League for Nursing.
National League for Nursing. (2022b). Highest earned credential of full-time nurse educators by rank. National League for Nursing.
Old Dominion University. (2023, May 24). ODU’s State of the Region Report Predicts Nursing Shortage. Old Dominion University.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022a). Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2022. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022b). Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News, VA-NC May 2022 OEWS metropolitan and nonmetropolitan area occupational employment and wage estimates. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.