Virginia Nursing Colleges & Licenses | VA

“Virginia has expanded the authority for nurse practitioners, allowing them to manage treatment of their patients more independently. This leads to better access for patients across the state.” 

Megan Faber, MSN, Clinical Instructor, Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of Nursing

Nursing is more than just a profession; it’s a calling that demands dedication, empathy, and skill. In Virginia, the demand for skilled nurses continues to grow, making it an ideal location for those seeking to begin or advance their nursing careers. With an impressive range of nursing colleges and programs, Virginia offers aspiring nurses the opportunity to excel in this essential field.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS 2025), the job growth rate for registered nurses in the United States is projected to increase by 6 percent between 2023 and 2033, slightly faster than the national average of 4 percent for all occupations. However, the BLS’s combined grouping of nurse specialists—nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nurse practitioners—is in even higher demand, with a staggering 40 percent projected growth rate in the coming decade.

In addition to its historic on-campus programs, Virginia boasts a wide array of online and hybrid nursing education options. These flexible programs cater to working professionals, parents, and those who cannot attend in-person classes. Such offerings allow aspiring nurses to balance their personal and professional lives while pursuing their passion for healthcare. With many top-notch nursing colleges, licenses, and programs, prospective Virginia nurses can confidently embark on a rewarding and fulfilling career path.

Wilkes University
Texas A&M International University
Northern Kentucky University

Meet the Expert: Megan Faber, MSN, RN, PCCN

Megan Faber is a clinical instructor in the Department of Family and Community Health Nursing at Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of Nursing. She earned a master’s in nursing education from Duke University and received her BSN from Liberty University, graduating cum laude with a minor in psychology. 

Faber teaches across VCU’s undergraduate nursing curriculum, with a focus on adult health clinical rotations and courses including technologies of practice, nursing of adults II, and adult care practicum. She is engaged in multiple faculty and school governance roles, including the Clinical Education Council, Undergraduate Program Committee, and Evaluation Subcommittee. She is also part of VCU’s Faculty Assembly and serves on committees supported by VCU Health, including the Professional Practice Leadership Council and Nurse Residency Initiatives.

Faber has been honored with the 2023 Daisy Faculty Award and the School of Nursing’s Love Award for excellence in teaching and student support.

NursingColleges.com: What do you wish people knew about nursing in Virginia?

Faber: Nursing in Virginia can be extremely diverse. It is not just inpatient acute care practice. Nursing happens from large university hospitals to home health, prisons, public health care clinics, and many places in between. Virginia is a part of the Compact States, which means if you obtain your nursing license in VA, you can work in other compact states without needing additional licenses. 

Virginia has expanded the authority for nurse practitioners, allowing them to manage treatment of their patients more independently. This leads to better access for patients across the state. 

NursingColleges.com: Do you have any advice for aspiring nurses?

Faber: Choose a program that will push you, but one that also makes you feel supported. When in school, ask questions, push yourself outside of your comfort zone, and volunteer to do the skill or task. Be open to every opportunity. Even if you have your heart set on a specific patient population, be willing to embrace every experience because you never know where you may find your fit. When choosing a job after you graduate, look more to the team you are working with and less at the patient population. Those are the people you will be working those long hours with, and you want to know that you have the support of those around you, especially starting out. 

NursingColleges.com: What does the future of nursing look like to you?

Faber: Advanced practice for nursing is growing, which allows more access to healthcare for those who may not have easily received it before. Technology is being embraced more and more, streamlining workflow. Nursing is obtaining more of a voice for change in the healthcare systems. We are the backbone of healthcare; without nurses, patient care would suffer. 

I think nursing is pushing the status quo and changing and shaping how we will provide care. Nursing is pushing for more preventative care and less reactive care.

Accredited Undergraduate Nursing Programs in Virginia

Virginia Commonwealth University – School of Nursing (Hybrid)

Virginia Commonwealth University offers three BSN programs, including an exceptional RN-to-BSN program designed for registered nurses who have completed an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a diploma in nursing and wish to further their education by obtaining a BSN degree. The RN-to-BSN program at VCU stands out due to its hybrid format, combining online coursework with on-campus experiences to accommodate the busy schedules of working professionals.

Admission to the RN-to-BSN program at Virginia Commonwealth University requires applicants to fulfill specific criteria. Prospective students must hold an active and unencumbered Registered Nurse (RN) license and have completed an ADN or a diploma in nursing from an accredited institution. 

Additionally, applicants should submit their official transcripts, a personal statement, and a resume or CV as part of the application process. The hybrid nature of the program enables students to benefit from the flexibility of online learning while still gaining valuable hands-on experience through on-campus lab sessions and other interactive activities. 

  • Location: Richmond, VA
  • Duration: Two to three years
  • Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing (Online)

The Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing (BSMCON) offers a unique RN-to-BSN online program designed to accommodate the needs of working nurses seeking career advancement. The program builds upon students’ nursing knowledge and experience while fostering critical thinking, leadership skills, and evidence-based practice. 

With a curriculum tailored to cover diverse topics such as community health, informatics, and nursing research, BSMCON’s program ensures that students receive a comprehensive education. The fully online format allows for flexibility, enabling nursing professionals to balance their work schedules and personal commitments while pursuing their bachelor of science in nursing. 

  • Location: Richmond, VA
  • Duration: Two to four years
  • Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

Fortis College (Hybrid)

Fortis College’s Norfolk campus provides a comprehensive hybrid associate degree in nursing (ADN) program for aspiring nurses seeking a solid foundation in the nursing field. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, clinical experiences, and classroom instruction to prepare students for the challenging yet rewarding world of nursing. 

With a curriculum that covers essential nursing skills and knowledge, such as patient care, health assessment, and pharmacology, Fortis College’s Norfolk ADN program is designed to equip students with the necessary tools to excel in their careers. Approximately 50 percent of the courses are online, with the remaining courses and clinicals in person. 

Upon completing the program, graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN examination and pursue entry-level positions as registered nurses in various healthcare settings. Fortis College’s commitment to quality education and student support ensures that its ADN program is an excellent starting point for those looking to make a difference in the lives of patients and their families.

  • Location: Norfolk, VA
  • Duration: 24 months
  • Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

Standard Healthcare Services, Inc. – College of Nursing (On-campus)

Standard College of Nursing offers a unique LPN-to-RN transition program to help licensed practical nurses advance their careers and become registered nurses. This 70-credit program is certified to operate by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) and is approved by the Virginia Board of Nursing (VBON), ensuring that students receive a high-quality education that meets industry standards. 

With a curriculum emphasizing critical thinking, evidence-based practice, and clinical decision-making, the LPN-to-RN transition program at Standard Healthcare Services, Inc. prepares students for dynamic healthcare environments. The program also includes hands-on clinical experiences and classroom instruction, which help students develop a comprehensive understanding of nursing concepts and skills. Upon completing the program, graduates are well-equipped to take the NCLEX-RN examination and excel as registered nurses.

  • Location: Falls Church, VA
  • Duration: 24 months
  • Accreditation:  Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES)

University of Virginia – School of Nursing (Hybrid)

The RN-to-BSN hybrid program at the University of Virginia is an excellent choice for nursing professionals who want to advance their careers while balancing their work and personal lives. The program’s flexible format, comprehensive curriculum, and supportive learning environment make it an ideal choice for those seeking a high-quality nursing education. Except for the once-per-month on-campus class and clinicals, all coursework is online.

To be eligible for the RN-to-BSN hybrid program, applicants must hold an active and unencumbered registered nurse (RN) license and have completed an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a diploma in nursing from an accredited institution. Prospective students must submit their official transcripts, a personal statement, and a resume or CV as part of the application process.

  • Location: Charlottesville, VA
  • Duration: 24 months
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Accredited Graduate Nursing Programs in Virginia

Virginia Commonwealth University – School of Nursing (Online, On-campus)

Virginia Commonwealth University’s (VCU) School of Nursing offers a comprehensive range of advanced nursing programs, including a master of science in nursing (MSN), doctor of nursing practice (DNP), and doctor of philosophy (PhD) in nursing, designed to cater to the diverse needs of nursing professionals seeking career growth and academic excellence. 

At Virginia Commonwealth University, the School of Nursing offers a fully online DNP designed to advance the clinical expertise and leadership capacity of nursing professionals. Structured to serve both bachelor’s- and master’s-prepared RNs, the program includes concentrations in family nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner, psychiatric‑mental health nurse practitioner, and nursing leadership & organizational science.

Students complete a final DNP scholarly project, overseen by faculty and organizational sponsors, addressing system-based quality or safety innovations suitable for publication. The curriculum incorporates at least 500 advanced practice hours embedded within the six-credit residency framework, enabling students to demonstrate advanced-level competencies in real-world settings.

Graduates leave VCU empowered to influence healthcare delivery through evidence-based leadership, interprofessional collaboration, and health policy advocacy. Admission requires an unrestricted U.S. RN license and a graduate GPA of 3.0 or higher. The program is designed for mid-career clinicians, executives, and NP-prepared nurses seeking to drive practice change and clinical transformation.

  • Location: Richmond, VA
  • Duration: Two to five years
  • Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

Eastern Mennonite University – School of Nursing (Online)

Eastern Mennonite University’s (EMU) School of Nursing offers a variety of graduate and doctoral degree and certificate programs in nursing designed to cater to the evolving needs of nursing professionals seeking career advancement and specialization. The master of science in nursing (MSN) program provides students with focused tracks such as leadership and management, allowing them to tailor their education to their career goals. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, evidence-based practice, leadership development, and interdisciplinary collaboration, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to excel in various healthcare settings. 

EMU also offers a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) program focusing on advanced clinical practice, healthcare policy, and systems leadership. This program prepares graduates to excel as nurse leaders, driving innovation and improving patient care outcomes in diverse healthcare environments. With a commitment to excellence in nursing education and a supportive learning environment rooted in the university’s core values, Eastern Mennonite University’s graduate and doctoral nursing programs equip graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to make meaningful contributions to the healthcare community and promote holistic patient care.

  • Location: Harrisonburg, VA
  • Duration: One to five years
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

George Mason University – School of Nursing (Hybrid)

George Mason University’s School of Nursing offers a diverse range of graduate nursing programs designed to meet the needs of nursing professionals seeking career advancement and specialization. These programs include master of science in nursing (MSN), doctor of nursing practice (DNP), and post-master’s certificate options, providing students with a comprehensive educational experience tailored to their career goals. 

The MSN program offers specialized tracks such as family nurse practitioner, adult gerontology nurse practitioner, and nurse educator, emphasizing critical thinking, evidence-based practice, leadership, and interdisciplinary collaboration. 

The DNP program focuses on advanced clinical practice, healthcare policy, and systems leadership, preparing graduates to excel as nurse leaders and drive innovation in various healthcare settings. The post-master’s certificate programs also offer opportunities for nurses with an MSN degree to gain additional expertise in nursing education or other specialized practice areas. 

  • Location: Fairfax, VA
  • Duration: One to five years
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Hampton University – School of Nursing (On-campus)

Hampton University’s School of Nursing offers advanced nursing programs, including master of science in nursing (MSN) and doctor of philosophy (PhD) degrees, designed to cater to the diverse needs of nursing professionals seeking career growth and academic excellence. 

The MSN program provides students with specialized tracks such as family nurse practitioner, nurse administration, and nurse education, allowing them to focus on their areas of interest and expertise. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, evidence-based practice, leadership development, and interdisciplinary collaboration, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to excel in various healthcare settings. 

On the other hand, the PhD program focuses on developing nurse scholars and researchers who contribute to advancing nursing science and knowledge. With an emphasis on research methodology, theory development, and health policy, the PhD program prepares graduates to make significant contributions to the nursing discipline through rigorous research and scholarly work. 

  • Location: Hampton, VA
  • Duration: Two to five years
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Liberty University – School of Nursing (Hybrid)

Liberty University’s School of Nursing offers diverse graduate nursing programs to cater to nursing professionals seeking career advancement and specialization. These programs include master of science in nursing (MSN), doctor of nursing practice (DNP), and post-master’s certificate options, providing students with a comprehensive educational experience tailored to their career goals. 

The MSN program offers specialized tracks such as nurse practitioner, nurse educator, and nursing administration, emphasizing critical thinking, evidence-based practice, leadership, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The curriculum is grounded in Christian values and ethical principles, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to excel in various healthcare settings with a holistic approach to patient care. 

The DNP program focuses on advanced clinical practice, healthcare policy, and systems leadership, preparing graduates to excel as nurse leaders and drive innovation in diverse healthcare environments. Additionally, the post-master’s certificate programs offer opportunities for nurses, and the online PhD in nursing lets nurses gain further expertise in nursing education.

  • Location: Lynchburg, VA
  • Duration: One to five years
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Old Dominion University – Ellmer School of Nursing (Hybrid)

Old Dominion University’s (ODU) Ellmer School of Nursing offers a range of advanced nursing programs, including master of science in nursing (MSN), doctor of nursing practice (DNP), and post-master’s certificate programs, designed to meet the diverse needs of nursing professionals seeking career advancement and specialization. 

The MSN program provides students with specialized tracks such as nurse practitioner, nurse midwifery, and clinical nurse specialist, allowing them to tailor their education according to their career goals. The DNP program also offers specialized tracks for advanced practice, nurse executive, nurse anesthesia, and psychiatric-mental health. 

The post-master’s certificate programs also offer nurses with an MSN degree opportunities to gain additional expertise in areas like nurse education. ODU’s commitment to excellence in nursing education and its supportive learning environment ensure that graduates from these programs are well-equipped to contribute meaningfully to the healthcare community and impact patient care.

  • Location: Norfolk, VA
  • Duration: One to five years
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Radford University – School of Nursing (On-campus)

Radford University’s School of Nursing offers a range of advanced nursing programs, including master of science in nursing (MSN), doctor of nursing practice (DNP), and post-master’s certificate programs, designed to cater to the diverse needs of nursing professionals seeking career growth. The MSN program offers specialized tracks, including family nurse practitioner, psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, and nurse administration, enabling students to tailor their education to their career goals.

The DNP program emphasizes evidence-based practice, leadership, and health policy, preparing graduates to excel as nurse leaders and advanced clinicians in various healthcare settings. The post-master’s certificate programs also offer nurses with an MSN degree opportunities to gain additional expertise in areas like nurse education or other specialized practice areas. 

  • Location: Radford, VA
  • Duration: One to five years
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Sentara College of Health Sciences (Hybrid)

Sentara College of Health Sciences offers an innovative master of science in nursing (MSN) program for professionals seeking to advance their careers and specialize in specific practice areas. The program’s primary focus is on the clinical nurse leader (CNL) track, which equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel as leaders in diverse healthcare settings. 

The MSN curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, evidence-based practice, leadership development, and interdisciplinary collaboration, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of today’s healthcare environment. 

With a combination of online coursework and clinical practicum experiences, Sentara College’s MSN program provides a flexible and comprehensive learning experience that accommodates the needs of working nurses. Graduates from this program are poised to significantly contribute to patient care, quality improvement, and healthcare innovation as they step into advanced clinical and leadership roles.

  • Location: Chesapeake, VA
  • Duration: 24 months
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Shenandoah University – Eleanor Wade Custer School of Nursing (hybrid)

Shenandoah University’s Eleanor Wade Custer School of Nursing offers a comprehensive master of science in nursing (MSN) program and graduate certificate options for nursing professionals seeking career advancement and specialization. 

The MSN program provides students with focused tracks such as family nurse practitioner, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, and nurse-midwifery, enabling them to tailor their education to align with their specific career goals. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, evidence-based practice, leadership, and interdisciplinary collaboration, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to excel in various healthcare settings. 

In addition to the MSN program, Shenandoah University offers graduate certificates in specialized areas such as nursing education and nursing leadership & management, providing opportunities for nurses with an MSN degree to gain additional expertise and advance their careers. With a commitment to excellence in nursing education and a supportive learning environment, Shenandoah University’s nursing programs equip graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to make meaningful contributions to the healthcare community and improve patient care.

  • Location: Winchester, VA
  • Duration: One to five years
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE); Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME)

University of Virginia – School of Nursing (Hybrid)

The University of Virginia School of Nursing offers many graduate nursing programs to meet the diverse needs of nursing professionals seeking career advancement and specialization. These programs include a master of science in nursing (MSN), doctor of nursing practice (DNP), and doctor of philosophy (PhD) in nursing, providing students with a comprehensive educational experience tailored to their specific career goals. 

The MSN program offers specialized tracks such as family nurse practitioner, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, pediatric nurse practitioner, and adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner, emphasizing critical thinking, evidence-based practice, leadership, and interdisciplinary collaboration. 

The DNP program focuses on advanced clinical practice, healthcare policy, and systems leadership, preparing graduates to excel as nurse leaders and drive innovation in various healthcare settings. Meanwhile, the PhD program aims to develop nurse scholars and researchers who contribute to advancing nursing science and knowledge through rigorous research and scholarly work, emphasizing research methodology, theory development, and health policy.

  • Location: Charlottesville, VA
  • Duration: One to five years
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Nursing School Accreditation

Nursing school accreditation is a vital process that guarantees nurses have the most current knowledge, skills, and competence aligned with industry standards. It brings security and peace of mind to all stakeholders, including future nurses, training institutions, employers, support staff, and patients.

Students must complete a nursing program accredited by institutional or programmatic accrediting bodies to practice nursing legally. When it comes to nursing school accreditation, there are two categories: institutional and programmatic.

The leading organizations for programmatic accreditation in nursing schools are the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Other nursing accreditation organizations focus on specialized curriculums, such as the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs. 

Institutional accreditation is an evaluative mark of a college or university’s quality. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), recognized by the US Department of Education, identifies seven regional organizations that review and grant institutional accreditation status. These independent bodies evaluate academic integrity, financial stability, faculty expertise, and degrees awarded to determine a university’s standards.

Lastly, it is crucial to consider the state authorization status when researching online and hybrid nursing programs, especially for degrees that require state licensing. The National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA) regulates this to help prospective students ensure their educational institution is compatible with state boards of nursing requirements for online or hybrid nursing programs. Confirming state authorization status is essential to avoid expensive challenges during state licensing tests or even the inability to receive credentials.

How Much Do Nurses Make in Virginia?

These numbers represent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics from May 2024—the latest data available as of August 2025. 

Licensed Practical Nurse Salaries

United StatesVirginia
Number employed632,43016,710
Average annual salary (mean)$64,150$63,380
10th percentile$47,960$48,160
50th percentile (median)$62,340$62,310
90th percentile$80,510$77,450

Registered Nurse Salaries

United StatesVirginia
Number employed3,282,01077,420
Average annual salary (mean)$98,430$90,930
10th percentile$66,030$64,370
50th percentile (median)$93,600$88,820
90th percentile$135,320$124,040

Nurse Anesthetist Salaries

United StatesVirginia
Number employed50,350980
Average annual salary (mean)$231,700$206,270
10th percentile$137,230$114,880
50th percentile (median)$223,210$199,960
90th percentile>$239,200 per year>$239,200 per year

Nurse Midwife Salaries

United StatesVirginia
Number employed8,280N/A
Average annual salary (mean)$128,110$134,500
10th percentile$74,670$89,290
50th percentile (median)$120,790$139,770
90th percentile$177,040$160,430

Nurse Practitioner Salaries

United StatesVirginia
Number employed307,3906,470
Average annual salary (mean)$132,000$122,180
10th percentile$97,960$85,020
50th percentile (median)$129,210$124,210
90th percentile$169,950$155,800

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Licensure in Virginia

Licensing AuthorityEligibility & DetailsRenewal Requirements
Virginia Department of Health ProfessionsVirginia Department of Health Professions Board of Nursing

Virginia requires applicants for an LPN license to:


  • Submit a criminal fingerprint background check

  • Complete an application

  • Pay the fee

  • Pass the NCLEX-RN exam and pay the fee

  • Proof of a completed nursing degree from a board-certified program



Virginia LPNs must renew their licenses every two years by submitting an application and paying the renewal fee. 

They must also complete one of the following continued competency requirements:


  • Current specialty certification by a national certifying organization

  • Completion of a minimum of three credit hours of post-licensure academic education relevant to nursing practice, offered by a regionally accredited college or university

  • A board-approved refresher course in nursing

  • Completion of nursing-related, evidence-based practice project or research study

  • Completion of publication as the author or co-author during a renewal cycle

  • Teaching or developing a nursing-related course resulting in no less than three semester hours of college credit, a 15-week course, or specialty certification

  • Teaching or developing nursing-related continuing education courses for up to 30 contact hours

  • 15 contact hours of workshops, seminars, conferences, or courses relevant to the practice of nursing and 640 hours of active practice as a nurse

  • 30 contact hours of workshops, seminars, conferences, or courses relevant to the practice of nursing


Registered Nurse (RN) Licensure in Virginia

Licensing Authority Eligibility & Details Renewal Requirements
Virginia Department of Health ProfessionsVirginia Department of Health Professions Board of Nursing

Virginia requires applicants for an RN license to:

  • Submit a criminal fingerprint background check
  • Complete an application
  • Pay the fee
  • Pass the NCLEX-RN exam and pay the fee
  • Proof of a completed nursing degree from a board certified program

RN in Virginia must renew their licenses every two years by submitting an application, paying the renewal fee, and completing one of the following continue competency requirements:

  • Current specialty certification by a national certifying organization
  • Completion of a minimum of three credit hours of post-licensure academic education relevant to nursing practice, offered by a regionally accredited college or university
  • A board-approved refresher course in nursing
  • Completion of nursing-related, evidence-based practice project or research study
  • Completion of publication as the author or co-author during a renewal cycle
  • Teaching or developing a nursing-related course resulting in no less than three semester hours of college credit, a 15-week course, or specialty certification
  • Teaching or developing nursing-related continuing education courses for up to 30 contact hours
  • 15 contact hours of workshops, seminars, conferences, or courses relevant to the practice of nursing and 640 hours of active practice as a nurse
  • 30 contact hours of workshops, seminars, conferences, or courses relevant to the practice of nursing.

Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Licensure in Virginia

Licensing AuthorityEligibility & DetailsRenewal Requirements
Virginia Board of Nursing

In Virginia, CNSs practice as a category of a certified nurse practitioner (CNP) license. To be eligible for a CNP license in Virginia, the following is required:


  • Evidence of a current Virginia RN license or RN license with multi-state privilege

  • Complete online application and pay fee through the online license portal

  • Verification of professional certification for the specialty area of educational preparation issued by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, Pediatric Nursing Certification Board, National Certification Corporation, American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, or American Association of Critical-Care Nurses Certification Corporation

  • Submit an official transcript from a graduate degree program in nursing designed to advanced practice registered nurses, sent directly from the education institution

License renewals for CNPs in Virginia are required biennially.

There is a renewal fee  and CNPs must either have a current national certification or complete 40 hours of continuing education. 

Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) Licensure in Virginia

Licensing AuthorityEligibility & DetailsRenewal Requirements
Virginia Board of Nursing

In Virginia, CNM license requirements include:


  • Evidence of a current Virginia RN license or RN license with multi-state privilege

  • Complete online application and pay fee of through online license portal

  • Certification of professional certification for the specialty area of educational preparation issued by the American Midwifery Certification Board

  • Submit an official transcript from a graduate degree program in nursing, sent directly from the education institution

License renewals for CNMs in Virginia are required biennially.

The renewal fee and CNMs must either have a current national certification or complete 40 hours of continuing education. 

Nurse Practitioner (NP) Licensure in Virginia

Licensing AuthorityEligibility & DetailsRenewal Requirements

Virginia Board of Nursing

To be eligible for a Certified Nurse Practitioner (CNP) license in Virginia, the following is required:


  • Evidence of a current Virginia RN license or RN license with multi-state privilege

  • Complete online application and pay fee through the online license portal

  • Verification of professional certification for the specialty area of educational preparation issued by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, Pediatric Nursing Certification Board, National Certification Corporation, American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, or American Association of Critical-Care Nurses Certification Corporation

  • Submit an official transcript from a graduate degree program in nursing designed to advanced practice registered nurses, sent directly from the education institution


License renewals for CNP in Virginia are required biennially.  The renewal fee is required and CNPs must either have a current national certification or complete 40 hours of continuing education. 

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CNRA) Licensure in Virginia

Licensing AuthorityEligibility & DetailsRenewal Requirements
Virginia Board of Nursing

In Virginia, CRNAs practice as a category of a certified nurse practitioner (CNP) license. To be eligible for an CNP license in Virginia, the following is required:


  • Evidence of a current Virginia RN license or RN license with multi-state privilege

  • Complete online application and pay fee through online license portal

  • Verification of professional certification for the specialty area of educational preparation issued by the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists

  • Submit official transcript from a graduate degree program in nursing designed to advanced practice registered nurses, sent directly from the education institution



License renewals for CNPs in Virginia are required biennially.  The renewal fee is required, and CNPs must either have a current national certification or complete 40 hours of continuing education.

Matt Zbrog

Matt Zbrog

Writer

Matt Zbrog is a writer and researcher from Southern California. Since 2018, he’s written extensively about the modern nursing workforce, conducting hundreds of interviews with nurse leaders, nurse educators, and nurse advocates to explore the issues that matter to them most. His Advocates to Know series focuses on nurse practitioners (NPs) who go above and beyond in changing policy and practice in important areas like veteran’s care, human trafficking prevention, and telehealth access. He regularly collaborates with subject matter experts from the American Nurses Association (ANA) and the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (NAPNAP) to elevate issues that empower nurses everywhere.

Rachel Drummond, MEd

Rachel Drummond, MEd

Writer

At NursingColleges.com, Rachel Drummond has applied her extensive experience in education and mindfulness to elucidate the importance of self-care for nursing students since 2022. Through her writings, she underscores the role of mental and physical well-being in fostering resilient and compassionate healthcare professionals.

Rachel is a writer, educator, and coach from Oregon. She has a master’s degree in education (MEd) and has over 15 years of experience teaching English, public speaking, and mindfulness to international audiences in the United States, Japan, and Spain. She writes about the mind-body benefits of contemplative movement practices like yoga on her blog, inviting people to prioritize their unique version of well-being and empowering everyone to live healthier and more balanced lives.