Ohio (OH) Nursing Colleges & Licenses
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Ohio is well-known for its nursing colleges and universities. The state is home to some of the top-ranked nursing schools in the nation. Schools such as Case Western Reserve University, Xavier University, and the University of Cincinnati provide highly sought-after nursing programs at the bachelor, master’s, and doctoral levels. Additionally, numerous other accredited colleges and universities throughout the state offer an excellent education for nurses with various credentials – from registered nurses (RNs) to nurse managers and nurse practitioners (NPs).
Ohio ranks sixth among US states for registered nurses (RNs) jobs, according to data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). With a projected 6 percent increase in RN openings over the next 10 years attributed to an aging population across America, undergraduate nursing programs in Ohio have seen a rise in enrollment. Ultimately, the outlook for nursing opportunities in Ohio has never been brighter.
Ohio joined the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) in January 2023 and became the 38th compact state. The terms multistate license (MSL) and compact license are interchangeable when referencing nursing licenses in Ohio. MSLs offer professional nursing staff the opportunity to use their nursing licenses across multiple states; however, it is essential to note that some restrictions around discipline may apply. RNs and LPNs working in Ohio can renew their single-state nursing license or convert to a new MSL. This change allows nursing professionals maximum flexibility while practicing due to Ohio’s proximity to its neighboring states, such as Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and Illinois.
Nursing aspirants in Ohio have many education options with both on-campus and online degree programs and hybrid offerings. Obtaining a nursing license requires successful completion of an accredited curriculum; the CCNE or ACEN vets these to guarantee that students receive quality instruction and hands-on experience from qualified faculty. Clearing the NCLEX exam enables graduates to serve patients across all 50 states, bringing them one step closer to fulfilling their ambitions within this healthcare field.
Ohio’s bustling healthcare industry provides ample opportunities for those wishing to pursue a career in nursing. An array of accredited schools and world-class hospitals are ready to provide quality education. At the same time, experienced nurses can look forward to competitive salaries from renowned medical establishments across the state and beyond its borders.
Featured Online Nursing Programs
Accredited Undergraduate Nursing Programs in Ohio
Undergraduate nursing programs – such as bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) – are the most recommended path for aspiring nurses. Fortunately, nursing colleges in Ohio offer on-campus and hybrid BSN programs that enable individuals to earn a BSN with a high school diploma or GED, an associate’s degree in nursing, and accelerated programs for those with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees.
Nurses with BSN degrees can enter entry-level careers or pursue graduate or doctoral studies. Here are five undergraduate nursing programs at colleges and universities in Ohio.
Chamberlain University (online)
Chamberlain University’s College of Nursing offers a BSN program tailored to pre-licensure students. With small classes and diverse and hands-on learning opportunities, the BSN program provides individualized guidance for students to equip them with theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for the medical field. Faculty members share their real-world experiences with BSN students, and diverse clinical experiences enrich students’ learning journeys.
There are three start times to enroll in courses every year, and transfer credits are accepted, giving more flexibility to pre-licensure BSN learners. There is also the option of an RN-to-BSN program, an RN-to-MSN program, a master of science in nursing (MSN), graduate nursing certificate programs, and a doctorate of nursing practice (DNP) offered at Chamberlain University – all aimed to create well-rounded and reliable healthcare practitioners that provide efficient care in various healthcare settings.
- Location: Campuses in Columbus and Cleveland, OH
- Duration: Three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $675 per credit hour
Mt. Carmel College of Nursing (on-campus and hybrid)
Mt. Carmel College of Nursing offers five BSN degree program options for aspiring nurses hoping to start or advance their healthcare careers. With an undergraduate completion rate of 80 percent, an 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio, and a 29 percent minority representation among its students, Mt. Carmel provides nursing education of the highest quality.
In addition to its BSN program offerings, the college provides graduate, post-graduate, and doctoral nursing degrees on-campus or online. Prospective BSN students must meet certain admission requirements, such as completing a high school diploma/GED with a GPA of at least 3.0 or higher; those with lower GPAs may be eligible for provisional admission. Those whose native language is not English must submit TOEFL scores as part of their application.
- Location: Columbus, OH
- Duration: One to four years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $525-$1,200 per credit
Walsh University (on-campus & hybrid)
Walsh University offers a BSN pre-licensure program that takes four years to complete on-campus. Students looking for an accelerated BSN program can opt for the BSN hybrid program, which requires two years of coursework and prerequisite courses. In terms of facilities, Walsh University has recently renovated its nursing lab/interactive classroom, boasting advanced educational technology such as a control room for instructors to record and observe students in simulation settings, a state-of-the-art high-fidelity simulation patient (iStan), a Fidelis Maternal Fetal Birthing Simulator, iPads and multiple monitors throughout the facility.
The Byers School of Nursing at Walsh University also offers an array of post-graduate programs such as MSN, post-master’s certificate, and DNP programs. As with all BSN programs, students must maintain a C or better in all nursing courses once admitted to the program. Students can also complete prerequisite courses in accelerated eight-week hybrid formats.
- Location: North Canton, OH
- Duration: Two to four years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $510 per credit
Ohio State University (on-campus)
The BSN program at Ohio State University’s College of Nursing offers a high-quality education to students interested in careers in nursing. It includes general education coursework, prerequisite pre-nursing courses, and courses in the nursing science major.
There are two additional options for current nurses: the RN-to-BSN program for registered nurses with associate degrees or diplomas and a three-year accelerated option for those with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees. In all BSN programs, students can expect to develop the necessary skills to pursue higher education and become leading figures in nursing.
- Location: Columbus, OH
- Duration: Four years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $12,485 per year (residents); $36,722 per year (non-residents)
Ursuline College (on-campus)
The Ursuline College Breen School of Nursing provides a BSN degree program that meets the educational requirements of all 50 states for professional licensure and certification, as approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing. This BSN program has an impressive 100 percent job placement rate, with graduates commonly securing excellent field placements as undergraduates, often leading to full-time employment at Cleveland’s top hospitals quite quickly upon graduation.
Admissions requirements include having a total GPA of 2.75 or above, either earning a composite ACT score of 20 or SAT score of 1030 (optional), and demonstrating proficiency in high school algebra II, biology with lab, and chemistry with lab through earning a C+ or higher in each course. Ursuline BSN also boasts an impressive NCLEX pass rate of more than 90 percent – so for those looking for a great BSN degree tailored to meet the current standards set within their field, Ursuline BSN is an ideal on-campus option.
- Location: Pepper Pike, OH
- Duration: Four years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $36,390 per year
Accredited Graduate Nursing Programs in Ohio
With graduate and doctoral nursing programs gaining more recognition in recent years, much emphasis has been placed on increasing practice autonomy and providing high-quality care for underserved populations. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) has advocated for nurses to hold graduate or doctoral degrees to serve the needs of patients best, pushing for all advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) to have full-practice authority.
Ohio has several highly esteemed nursing programs offering on-campus and hybrid master of science degrees in nursing (MSN), doctorate of nursing practice (DNP), and post-master’s certificate programs. The following programs provide excellent opportunities for nurses wishing to expand their knowledge from their BSN degrees and further their careers through graduate and doctoral degrees and certificates in nursing.
Capital University (hybrid)
Capital University’s graduate nursing program offers a hybrid MSN with four concentrations in quality & safety, administration, education, and legal studies. Remarkable professors at Capital University have DNPs, and PhDs, and are also active leaders in their fields. Classes allow students to engage in meaningful research, as most classes have fewer than 20 students. For nurses interested in progressing up the career ladder, dual degree options are available for an MSN/JD (doctorate of jurisprudence) or an MSN/MBA (master of business administration).
The online courses come in eight- or 16-week formats, giving flexibility to how much or how little the student can take at once, with classes being asynchronous. Practicum learning experiences require occasional on-site commitments, such as clinicals in one of many hospitals located in the Cleveland area.
- Location: Columbus, OH
- Duration: Two to three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $690 per credit hour
Ohio University (online & hybrid)
Ohio University offers a hybrid graduate nursing program that provides students with online classes and in-person clinical experiences. The graduate degree and certificate programs provide students with five specialty tracks across adult-gerontology, family nurse practitioner, nurse educator, nurse leader, and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner areas.
All graduate nursing programs prepare students for national certification; however, it is highly recommended that students contact their state’s board of nursing to ensure that the chosen graduate nursing program meets individual state standards for licensure. With three start dates throughout the year – fall, spring, and summer – prospective graduate applicants at Ohio University have numerous options for receiving an excellent graduate education in nursing.
- Location: Athens, OH
- Duration: Two to three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $583 per credit (residents); $1,079 per credit (non-residents)
University of Toledo (online)
The University of Toledo offers graduate and doctoral nursing degree programs in various areas, making it easy for students to find a program suitable for their goals. MSN, post-master’s certificates, and DNP programs are available for undergraduate degrees in nursing and non-nursing disciplines. There are full-time, part-time, and accelerated options to accommodate every student’s needs. Interdisciplinary learning is encouraged through the active health science campus, which allows graduate nursing students to learn alongside other disciplines.
Specialty areas in graduate nursing programs include adult-gerontology (acute and primary care), family nurse practitioner, nurse executive, pediatric primary care nurse practitioner, and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. The new nurse executive track allows graduates to take the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Nurse Executive certification exam.
- Location: Toledo, OH
- Duration: One to four years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $682 per semester (residents); $1,155 per semester (non-residents)
Kent State University (online & hybrid)
Kent State University’s College of Nursing offers graduate nurses a variety of online and hybrid degree programs. These include an MSN with several APRN concentrations in adult-gerontology, family nurse practitioner, pediatric primary care, psychiatric-mental health, women’s health, and nurse educator. A dual degree program is available in nursing administration, combining an MSN with an MBA (master of business administration) degree.
While some concentrations are offered entirely online, others require in-person clinicals or on-campus classes. Students may choose full- or part-time pathways for programs completed remotely by nurses living in any eligible state. Kent State’s graduate nursing programs also offer RN-to-BSN bridge degrees, post-master’s graduate certificates, and online DNP programs.
- Location: Kent, OH
- Duration: Two to three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $550 per credit (residents); $1,025 per credit (non-residents)
University of Akron (on-campus)
The University of Akron School of Nursing offers an MSN degree program. This program includes four concentrations: adult gerontology, child and adolescent primary health, family nurse practitioner, and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. The courses making up the graduate nursing program are specially crafted to help students reach a level of specialization in their chosen concentration.
The curriculum is composed of two parts: core components made up of general theories, evidence-based practices, health policies, information management, and advanced pathophysiology, which all graduate nursing program students must complete; then there is the specialization which provides deeper information specific to each concentration. Postmaster’s certificate programs are offered alongside the graduate nursing program for extra learning opportunities.
- Location: Akron, OH
- Duration: Two to three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $508 per credit (residents); $813 per credit (non-residents)
Nursing School Accreditation
Nursing accreditation is an external validation of nursing programs that promote high-quality teaching practices and patient care. Accreditation is a critical component of nursing curriculums. It ensures that registered nurses have all the necessary qualifications to practice safely and competently, such as current knowledge and competency-based proficiency. Nursing school accreditation safeguards patients and providers, ensuring that nursing programs meet specific standards for quality nursing care.
There are two main types of nursing school accreditation: programmatic and institutional.
Two organizations grant programmatic accreditation:
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Graduating from a CCNE- or ACEN-accredited program is a crucial milestone for nurses in the United States. Nursing programs with CCNE or ACEN accreditation have demonstrated they follow rigorous standards, enabling nursing graduates to have confidence and qualifications when entering clinical practice. Moreover, graduating from an accredited program makes nursing program graduates eligible to sit the NCLEX exam.
Institutional accreditation is regional and recognized by the US Department of Education. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) recognizes seven regional organizations that grant institutional accreditation status. These organizations carefully consider all aspects related to an institution’s academic integrity, fiscal stability, and student outcomes while assessing the overall quality of a college or university. They also evaluate faculty qualifications and nursing degrees awarded, ensuring that nursing students receive the best possible education that allows them access to nursing accreditation.
Lastly, students considering an online or hybrid program should research an institution’s state authorization status. This is regulated by the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA). Students wishing to pursue a degree in nursing from an institution outside their state of residence are strongly recommended to research their eligibility before applying. Failing to ensure state authorization before accepting admission could result in costly complications when taking state licensing tests, or even being completely unable to receive credentials. As such, those researching online educational opportunities should not overlook NC-SARA status.
How Much Do Nurses Make in Ohio?
Nurses with a BSN degree or higher in Ohio can earn significantly more than their colleagues throughout the United States. According to data from Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (BLS May 2022), registered nurses earn annual salaries above the national average of $61,900 annually for all occupations.
Read on for an analysis between nationwide salary figures and those earned by nurses in Ohio, highlighting how these numbers compare across both regions.
Licensed Practical Nurse Salaries
| United States | Ohio | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 632,030 | 37,310 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $55,860 | $52,330 |
| 10th percentile | $40,490 | $40,720 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $54,620 | $50,590 |
| 90th percentile | $72,650 | $60,850 |
Registered Nurse Salaries
| United States | Ohio | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 3,072,700 | 130,370 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $89,010 | $78,450 |
| 10th percentile | $61,250 | $61,860 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $81,220 | $76,810 |
| 90th percentile | $129,400 | $98,380 |
Nurse Anesthetist Salaries
| United States | Ohio | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 46,540 | 3,490 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $205,770 | $197,630 |
| 10th percentile | $143,870 | $153,540 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $203,090 | $178,500 |
| 90th percentile | >$208,000 per year | >$208,000 per year |
Nurse Midwife Salaries
| United States | Ohio | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 7,950 | 180 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $122,2450 | $124,560 |
| 10th percentile | $77,510 | $79,710 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $120,880 | $130,270 |
| 90th percentile | $171,230 | $159,550 |
Nurse Practitioner Salaries
| United States | Ohio | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 258,230 | 10,730 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $124,680 | $117,440 |
| 10th percentile | $87,340 | $96,640 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $121,610 | $113,040 |
| 90th percentile | $165,240 | $135,890 |
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Licenses in Ohio
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Ohio Board of Nursing | Applicants for an Ohio LPN license must meet the following requirements:
| Ohio LPNs must renew their license every two years by:
|
Registered Nurse (RN) Licenses in Ohio
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
Ohio Board of Nursing |
Ohio RN license applicant requirements include:
|
Ohio requires that RNs renew their license every two years by:
|
Nurse Practitioner (NP) Licenses in Ohio
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
Ohio issues Certified Nurse Practitioner (CNP) licenses. The requirements are:
|
|
Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) Licenses in Ohio
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Ohio Board of Nursing | In Ohio, a CNM is licensed as an APRN. To be eligible for a CNM license, applicants must meet the following requirements:
| To renew an APRN license in the state of Ohio, the Board will email a renewal notification to complete the application. Continuing education requirements do not need to be included in the renewal application, but APRNs must complete 24 hours of CE and keep the records in case of an audit. Submit the APRN renewal fee plus a transaction fee. |
Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) Licenses in Ohio
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Ohio Board of Nursing | In Ohio, a CRNA is licensed as an APRN. To be eligible for a APRN license, applicants must meet the following requirements:
| To renew an APRN license in the state of Ohio, the Board will email a renewal notification to complete the application. Continuing education requirements do not need to be included in the renewal application. Pay the APRN renewal fee plus a transaction fee. |
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Licenses in Ohio
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
In Ohio, a CNS is licensed as an APRN. The requirements include:
|
To renew an APRN license in the state of Ohio, the Board will email a renewal notification to complete the application. Continuing education requirements do not need to be included in the renewal application, but APRNs must complete 24 hours of CE and keep the records in case of an audit. The APRN renewal fee is $135 plus a $3.50 transaction fee. |
Rachel Drummond, MEd
WriterAt 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.