Nursing Schools Columbus Ohio
The best nursing schools in Columbus Ohio are affordable and offer associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees for nurses. As Ohio’s capital and one of the biggest cities in the US, Columbus, OH is a great destination for nurses in the Midwest. If you want to know how to become a registered nurse or nurse practitioner in Columbus, you may by start looking for a nursing program in Columbus OH.
To find the right nursing degree for your nursing education, start with accredited schools. Only a degree from an accredited nursing program qualifies you to earn a license and also receive financial aid while attending school. Other things to consider are the graduation rate of each nursing school, the student-to-instructor ratio, and student reviews.
How We Ranked the Best Nursing Schools in Columbus, OH
TopRN editors want to see nurses in Ohio and all over the US find programs that meet their needs. That’s why we feature only accredited, proven schools that students can trust to make a difference in their careers. So, we found the top schools and ranked them by factors including how many nursing programs they offer, the cost of tuition, and reviews from real students.
1. The Ohio State University
At the top of the list is The Ohio State University. The school offers nursing programs at every level from bachelor’s to doctoral. At the bachelor’s level, there is the traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing as well as an online RN to BSN program. The Master of Science in Nursing has four concentrations to choose from. They are psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, family nurse practitioners, neonatal nurse practitioners, and clinical nurse leaders. There is also a post-master’s study option as well as a PhD and DNP.
The Ohio State University College of Nursing strives to advance the quality of nursing care practiced. The school transforms lives and healthcare through its top-notch educational programs, strong history, and wellness-focused leadership. The College of Nursing offers wellness strategies, innovation, evidence-based practice, world-class research, and quality nursing education. Many of The Ohio State University’s nursing programs are available online.
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Programs: RN to BSN degree, RN to MSN, BSN to DNP/PhD
More: Visit the school website to find out more or request information.
2. Otterbein University
Otterbein University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing as well as a Doctor of Nursing Practice. Students pursuing a DNP can choose from three specialties in family nurse practitioner, psychiatric & mental health nurse practitioner, and nurse anesthesia. The DNP programs are ADN to DNP or BSN to DNP, depending on the concentration. These programs all involve earning an MSN on the way to the DNP degree. Post-master’s certificates in family nurse practitioner and psychiatric & mental health nurse practitioner are also available.
- BSN to DNP (MSN included) Family Nurse Practitioner
- Family Nurse Practitioner, Post-Graduate Certificate
- BSN to DNP (MSN included) Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
- Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Post-Graduate Certificate
- Nurse Anesthesia, BSN to DNP
- Doctor of Nursing Practice, Master’s Degree to DNP
- Advanced Nursing Practice or Nurse Executive options
Otterbein University is a liberal arts university that was established in 1847. The school has been recognized for its desire to serve the common good, its leadership in establishing co-educational institutions, its integrative curriculum, and its high ideals. The school encourages networking and internships. Otterbein has a 100% pass rate for the NCLEX-RN exam.
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Programs: ADN to DNP, BSN to DNP
More: View the school to find out more or request information.
3. Mount Carmel College of Nursing
As one of the top nursing schools in Columbus, Ohio, Mount Carmel College of Nursing offers nursing programs from the bachelor’s level to the doctoral level. There are five options for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing: the traditional program, an advanced placement program, a second-degree accelerated 13-month program, a second-degree accelerated hybrid 18-month program, and an online RN to BSN program. Students pursuing an MSN can choose from a family nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner, nursing education, and nursing leadership–clinical operations. There is also an online DNP program students can complete in 18 months.
The Mount Carmel College of Nursing prepares students for a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse. The school has been training nurses for over 115 years. Mount Carmel is a Catholic college that helps nursing students realize their career aspirations. It helps students define their goals and follow their career paths to a successful nursing career. Additionally, the Ohio Department of Higher Education recently awarded over $700,000 for scholarships as part of the state’s Choose Ohio First program.
Accreditation: CCNE
Programs: RN to BSN degree, BSN to DNP, MSN
More: Visit the school to find out more about the admission process.
4. Capital University
Capital University is among the best nursing schools in Columbus, Ohio. The school offers nursing degrees at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. BSN students can choose from the accelerated program with a daytime track or the flexible hybrid track. The accelerated BSN is for students who already have a bachelor’s or graduate degree in another field. Students at Capital Unversity who want to pursue an MSN have several options. There are also MSN/JD and MSN/MBA dual degrees available and a post-masters certificate in nurse educator. Capital also offers a DNP in executive leadership.
This school prepares students to meet their goals in nursing, whether that is to serve in a specialty or to work in the emergency room. At the same time, Capital University also prepares graduates for life with its foundation in liberal arts.
Accreditation: CCNE
Programs: traditional BSN degree; Accelerate BSN degree; MSN program with concentrations in Quality & Safety, Nurse Administration, Nurse Education, and Legal Studies; DNP Executive Leadership
More: Visit the program
5. Franklin University
Another of the best nursing schools in Columbus, Ohio is Franklin University. Franklin offers an RN to BSN, a traditional Master of Science in Nursing, an MSN with a concentration in a family nurse practitioner or nurse administrator, and an RN to MSN program. Since studies show that patient outcomes improve with a nurse’s level of education, there is a push to require nurses to have at least a bachelor’s degree. Franklin University’s RN to BSN program helps practicing nurses meet this new requirement. The program helps nurses improve their leadership skills and prepare for management positions. All of Franklin University’s nursing programs are online.
Franklin University is a leader in online education. Around 80% of its students take online courses. The school has a history of serving adult learners for over 100 years. Franklin is a military-friendly school that focuses on adult-centered learning. The school offers a flexible online program, student-centered support, collaborative peers, engaged faculty, and hands-on assignments.
Accreditation: CCNE
Programs: RN to BSN, BSN to MSN master’s degree program
More: Visit the program
6. Chamberlain University College of Nursing
As one of the best nursing schools in Columbus, Ohio, Chamberlain University College of Nursing offers a three-year accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and is a good first step toward a successful nursing career. The three-year BSN program requires students to attend classes year-round instead of taking the summers off, which allows students to graduate sooner and get into the workforce a year earlier than if they attended another school. There are no prerequisites required to start the program. Chamberlain University has a 97% first-time pass rate on the NCLEX.
Chamberlain University has been preparing students for nursing and other healthcare careers for 130 years. The school seeks to provide students with an environment that helps them thrive. Its mission is to embolden, empower, and educate healthcare professionals who will make a difference in the health of families, people, nations, and communities. Additionally, employees of Nationwide Children’s Hospital qualify for a 15% tuition savings and no application fee.
Accreditation: CCNE
Programs: BSN, LPN to BSN
More: Visit the program
7. Central Ohio Technical College
Central Ohio Technical College (CTOC) offers an Associate Degree Nursing program that requires five semesters of study. The program balances nursing courses with general education. Students enrolled in the program participate in laboratory experiences that prepare them to provide health care to all age groups of patients. The school has arrangements with local healthcare facilities to provide clinical experiences for its nursing students. Graduates earn an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing and are prepared to work in private homes, medical offices, industrial settings, long-term care facilities, and hospitals. Additionally, graduates can take the NCLEX-RN exam upon completion of the program.
Central Ohio Technical College has more than $1 million in scholarships available each year. So students that need financial aid can get lots of assistance. COTC also provides the hands-on training students need to succeed in the job market after graduation. The school’s mission is the meet the training and technical education needs of area employers and students.
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Programs: Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing Technology
More: Visit the program
8. Columbus State Community College
The nursing department at Columbus State Community College offers an Applied Science in Nursing (ADN) degree, a Licensed Practical Nurse certificate, a nurse aid certificate, and nursing certificates that are intended for nurses who want to enrich their credentials. The ADN prepares nursing students to become Registered Nurses who are able to provide care to patients in many different healthcare settings. The program is five semesters long and emphasizes psychomotor skills. Students learn care management skills, delegation, decision-making, and critical thinking in addition to gaining practical nursing skills. Graduates qualify to take the NCLEX-RN exam.
Columbus State Community College is one of the most diverse schools in the area. The student body has representatives from 130 different countries. The school is more affordable than most other schools. In fact, 76% of the school’s students graduate without any student loan debt. CSCC is student-focused and offers small class sizes, which facilitates personal attention for students.
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Programs: ADN
More: Visit the program
9. Hondros College
The Columbus campus of the Hondros College of Nursing has a practical nursing (PN) program and an Associate Degree in Nursing. The 48 credit PN program prepares students to become licensed practical nurses. Students begin working toward their goal of becoming a nurse from the first day and start gaining clinical experience in the second term. The 15 month ADN prepares students to become RNs. Hondros College students can start as direct entry students with prior college credit or military medic training. Or working licensed practical nurses LPNs can enter to advance their nursing careers. Students at Hondros gain hands-on experience as they complete their nursing program. Students who complete the ADN qualify to take the NCLEX-RN exam.
Hondros College of Nursing graduates quality nurses who are ready to enter the field and put their nursing skills to the test. The school offers a direct, focused approach that encourages students to develop collaborative, communication, and clinical skills.
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Programs: PN Practical Nursing diploma (LPN), military medic training to RN, ADN, LPN to ADN
More: Visit the school to find a nursing program for you!
10. Fortis College
The Columbus campus of Fortis College offers an ADN program that prepares students to take the NCLEX-RN exam and become Registered Nurses. Another program is the LPN to RN for students with a practical nursing diploma to earn an ADN. They receive prior college credit for their PN diploma and can complete the ADN program in about half the time. The school also has a partnership with the Denver College of Nursing to offer RN to BSN and MSN programs. Fortis’s ADN program provides students with quality clinical and academic instruction. The program teaches the skills and knowledge required to work as a Registered Nurse in many different healthcare settings after passing the NCLEX exam. Fortis’s ADN program is a hybrid program, which means that some classes are taken online and some are only available on campus.
The “Fortis Difference” means high standards for staff and faculty. Students are treated as valued members of the community, with a focus on understanding, support, and connection. Fortis offers small class sizes, which means individualized attention for its students, whether they are taking classes on campus or online.
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Programs: LPN to RN, Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program, (through Denver College of Nursing partnership RN to BSN, MSN)
More: Visit the program
What are the Types of Nursing Degree Programs in Columbus OH?
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
CNA certificate programs typically take 6 months to complete and train students in basic nursing care. There is no license for this level of education but some states have a registration database for CNAs.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Programs
Practical nursing diploma programs typically take one year to complete depending on each student’s prior education. The nursing license that students can earn with this degree is an LPN or LVN. Licenses are issued and regulated by each state.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
ADN programs typically take 1 to 2 years to complete depending on each student’s prior education. Associate undergraduate degrees in the US require 60 to 70 credit hours. Some colleges offer programs that allow students to complete the ADN in less time, but the required credits are the same. An accelerated pathway gives credit for the successful completion of previous coursework in a PN or EMT program. The nursing license that students can earn with this degree is an RN. Licenses are issued and regulated by each state.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
BSN programs typically take 1 to 4 years to complete depending on each student’s prior education. An undergraduate baccalaureate degree program in the US requires 120 to 130 credit hours. Many universities offer accelerated programs and online programs that can allow students to complete the BSN in less time, but the required credits are the same. These programs are shorter because students have prior coursework and nursing experience. The nursing license that students can earn with this degree is an RN. Licenses are issued and regulated by each state.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
MSN master’s level programs typically take 1 to 2 years to complete after a bachelor’s degree and prepare nurses for advanced practice in various nursing roles. Options include Nurse Practitioner programs, Nursing Leadership & Nursing Administration programs, and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) programs.
Post-Master’s Certificate Programs
Post-master’s certificate programs in nursing typically take 12 months or more to complete and train nurses to specialize in a particular area of nursing. The curriculum typically entails specialty courses, clinical practice hours, and research projects. Areas of specialization may include Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, Neurology, Acute Care, Palliative Care, and Maternal Child Health.
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
CRNA doctoral programs typically take 2 to 3 years to complete after a bachelor’s degree and prepare nurses for advanced practice as nurse anesthetists.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
DNP doctoral programs typically take 2 to 3 years to complete after a bachelor’s degree and prepare nurses for advanced practice and leadership positions.
Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD)
PhD doctoral programs typically take 3 years to complete after a bachelor’s degree and prepare students for careers in nursing research.
How is the Job Market for Nurses in Columbus OH?
The job market for nurses in Ohio is positive with the healthcare industry in Central Ohio experiencing strong job growth in the nursing field. Additionally, the city of Columbus is experiencing tremendous job growth, making it one of the top most attractive cities for nurses to work. According to Indeed dot com, nursing jobs in Columbus, OH are seeing a five-year projected growth rate of 16.9%.
Many nurses in the area will soon retire and leave open positions. And as the elderly population increases, the number of nursing jobs in Columbus OH will also grow. So nurse jobs in Columbus will continue to be in demand just like in the US as a whole.
Nurse Practitioner Jobs in Columbus OH
The number of nurse practitioner jobs in Columbus, Ohio will also grow throughout the years. The increase in nurse practitioner jobs stems from the growing medical industry as well as the growing number of older individuals with chronic health problems.
In general, the number of nursing jobs for registered nurses is expected to grow across the country. Similarly, the number of nurse practitioner jobs in the country is expected to grow as well. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a growth of forty-six percent (46%) from 2021 until 2031, which is much faster than the average job growth for all other jobs.
How Much Do Nurses Make in Columbus?
The nurse salary in Columbus is higher for people who specialize in a certain area of medicine. How much of a pay increase the nurse salary in Columbus Ohio raises revolves around the fact that certain specialties are more entailed, and certain ones are more in need. Additionally, the average nurse salary is higher for these individuals because they require additional knowledge and certifications to work in that area of medicine.
| Type | Ohio | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| CNAs | $34,110 per year (BLS) | $34,680 per year (BLS) |
| LPNs | $52,330 per year (BLS) | $54,930 per year (BLS) |
| RNs | $78,450 per year (BLS) | $80,700 per year (BLS) |
| Nurse Midwives | $124,560 per year (BLS) | $124,560 per year (BLS) |
| Nurse Practitioners | $117,440 per year (BLS) | $116,300 per year (BLS) |
| Nurse Anesthetists | $197,630 per year (BLS) | $204,680 per year (BLS) |
Nurse Practitioner Salary in Columbus
Some employers pay more than others. For example, registered nursing or nurse practitioner jobs in hospitals tend to pay the highest wages.
Nurses can also make more money if they earn a master’s degree to become a nurse practitioner. In fact, according to the BLS family nurse practitioner in Columbus Ohio makes an average of $116,300 per year. Nurses can earn a higher nurse practitioner salary with an in-demand specialization like psychiatric nursing. An acute care nurse practitioner also makes more money than other nursing specialties. Furthermore, a nurse who works in anesthesiology makes the most of any nursing specialty.
Resources for Ohio Nurses
Your Nursing Career
The Columbus community is a major center of business, industry, and education, making it an ideal place to pursue a career in the health care field. Local hospitals, clinics, medical offices, nursing homes, and residential care facilities all hire nurses. So whether you are new to the nursing profession or already a nurse, the Columbus area is a great place to advance your nursing career!
Related:
- Nursing in Ohio
- State of Nursing – Resource Guide to Nursing
- Which States Offer the Cheapest RN to BSN Programs?
- Essential Guide to Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC)
- 25 Best Cities for Nurses
- Highest-Paying Travel Nursing Positions
- 20 Highest-Paying Travel Nursing Agencies
- Top 25 Nursing Student Blogs
- Scholarships For Nursing Students
- 10 Best Nursing Schools in Denver
