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Kyra Sutherland
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You’ll have lots of decisions to make before you start your nursing program in Maryland. You’ll need to choose what school to attend, what type of nursing program to pursue, how you’ll pay for tuition and other costs, and where you’ll find financial aid. Plus you’ll need to confirm that the school you chose has the proper accreditation to ensure a top-quality education.
This guide simplifies the process. Review spotlights of some of the best nursing schools in Maryland, learn what to look for in a quality program, explore whether on-campus or online classes are best for you, find a checklist of requirements for nursing licensure in Maryland, get answers to FAQs, and more.
2023’s Best-in-Class Nursing Schools in Maryland
To give you a better idea of what nursing schools in Maryland are like, dive into the three college spotlights below. These programs are all accredited, offer a high-quality education, and prepare students to pass the NCLEX-RN exam—exactly what you should be looking for in your search.
Coppin State University
Coppin State University offers undergraduate nursing programs designed for students who want to make a difference in healthcare. This four-year program focuses on teaching students about patient care technology, health promotion and disease prevention strategies, clinical strategies and expertise, leadership and communication skills, evidence-based practice, and client-centered health care.
To be admitted, students must supply transcripts from any previous college showing a minimum GPA of 2.5, three letters of recommendation, and competitive scores from the HESI A2 entrance exam.
Morgan State University
Morgan State University offers a highly competitive undergraduate nursing program. Designed for juniors or seniors who have completed their general education requirements or have transferred from another school, this nursing program in Maryland focuses on teaching students effective, safe, evidence-based practices, preparing students for the constantly changing healthcare setting, and providing students with a solid nursing education.
Prospective students apply after they have completed all prerequisite courses. Applicants must provide three letters of reference and proof of health insurance and immunizations, and they must have a minimum GPA of 3.0. In addition, some clinics require a background check before students can start their rotations.
Maryland College of Nursing
The University of Maryland offers a rigorous undergraduate nursing program designed to prepare students for the NCLEX exam and future educational studies. Students learn from experienced faculty and develop their nursing skills with up-to-date technology. This program emphasizes clinical experience to help students succeed in real-life situations and make logical judgments.
Applicants must have completed 59 credits of prerequisite coursework as well as maintain an overall GPA of 3.0. Students need one recommendation from a professor, a resume, transcripts, and a written essay.
Common Traits of the Best Nursing Schools in Maryland
Not all nursing schools and programs in Maryland are equal, so how can you be sure you’re getting a quality education? Factors that can help you make the decision include experienced faculty, NCLEX pass rates, graduation rates, accreditation status, scheduling flexibility, and solid curriculum. Review the top three things to look for when searching for the right nursing school in Maryland.
- Nationally Accredited and State Approved
To be sure you’re attending a quality school, always check that your nursing program in Maryland is nationally accredited and state-approved. These are not mutually exclusive, so check for both. For more information, visit the Maryland Board of Nursing or check the website for the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. - High-Quality Curriculum
Technology and research are constantly moving and improving, so it’s important that you get the most current information from professors. Attending a school that has been accredited provides assurance that the curriculum is solid and will prepare you for the workplace. - Prepares You for Licensure
One of the reasons you get a degree is so that you can become a licensed or registered nurse upon graduation. Make sure the school you’re looking at will prepare you for the NCLEX exam, and if pass rates aren’t listed on the website, request at least three years’ worth from the admissions office.
Types of Nursing Programs Available in Maryland
Nursing schools in Maryland offer a lot of different nursing programs, so how do you know which one to choose? Depending on your career goals, each degree will be suited to a different outcome. To help you decide, below we’ve listed different types of nursing programs and the types of students whom those programs best suit. Here’s the rundown:
Pre-Licensure Nursing Programs in Maryland
ADN Programs
ADN stands for “associate degree in nursing,” and these programs take approximately two years to complete instead of the four years required for a bachelor’s degree. You can become a registered nurse with an ADN. The curriculum will focus on clinical day-to-day tasks, monitoring patients, and updating charts. Anything beyond that will typically require a more advanced degree. Nurses with an ADN will generally get a lower salary than those with other nursing degrees.
Examples of Maryland Nursing Schools with this Program
Traditional BSN Programs
Abachelor ofscience innursing(BSN)takes four years tocomplete. Although the general curriculum isthe same as an ADN, a bachelor’s degree will go much more indepth. A BSN also prepares you forleadership rolesandfurthering your education with more advanced nursingdegrees.
Examples of Maryland Nursing Schools with this Program
Accelerated BSN Programs
Accelerated BSN programs are condensed programs typically for those who already have a bachelor’s degree and want to become registered nurses. This program takes one to two years, not including any prerequisite courses. Upon completion, a student will have a BSN in addition to their other bachelor’s degree.
Examples of Maryland Nursing Schools with this Program
Nursing Bridge Programs in Maryland for Current Nurses
LPN to RN and LPN to BSN Programs
An LPN to RN or LPN/LPN to BSN program is for licensed practical nurses seeking to become registered nurses. These bridge programs are especially helpful as they take the skills and knowledge you already have and use them to shorten the time needed to obtain a BSN.
Examples of Maryland Nursing Schools with this Program
RN to BSN Programs
An RN to BSN bridge program is for students who already have their nursing license and are seeking a BSN. This bridge program is perfect for students who want to advance their career and education within a short period of time. Building on your current education and experience, this nursing program in Maryland takes approximately 12 months. As a Maryland-based registered nurse, you will find online RN to BSN programs in the state that can meet your needs.
Examples of Maryland Nursing Schools with this Program
RN to MSN Programs
RN to MSN programs take approximately three years and are for students with a nursing license seeking both a bachelor’s and master’s degree. While bachelor’s in nursing programs focus on nursing in general, an MSN is more specialized and is perfect for those looking to advance their career in a specific field
Examples of Maryland Nursing Schools with this Program
Advanced Nursing Programs in Maryland
MSN Programs
A MSN is a more specialized degree than a BSN. You’ll find basic MSN programs for students with bachelor’s degrees as well as direct-entry MSN degrees for students who have degrees in other areas. Professionals with MSN degrees have higher salaries than those with BSNs and often specialize within the field
Examples of Maryland Nursing Schools with this Program
DNP and PhD Doctoral Programs
A DNP or PhD nursing program in Maryland is a terminal degree for those wanting the highest occupations and education levels in the nursing field. DNP programs usually take three to five years, and PhD programs take four to six years.
Examples of Maryland Nursing Schools with this Program
Post-Graduate Certificates
Post-graduate certificates are for students who already have a graduate degree and are interested in pursuing further specializations. A post-graduate certificate may be required for some occupations and can be obtained with either an MSN or a DNP.
Examples of Maryland Nursing Schools with this Program
Maryland’s Best Online Nursing Programs in 2023
Students love the adaptability and convenience that comes with online learning, so nursing schools in Maryland are adapting their courses to be taught online. With options for every degree from ADN to DNP, you’ll find an online nursing program in Maryland that fits your schedule. While all coursework, assignments, and research can be completed virtually, any clinical rotations will have to be coordinated with an institution in your area to be completed in person. If you choose an online nursing program in Maryland, you’ll have the flexibility to study whenever and wherever you want, you’ll have access to many online resources, and in many cases you won’t have to do any on-campus visits. Learn about this year’s top-ranked programs and get answers to your key questions below.
| # | School Name | Type | Cost | Online Programs | More Details | School Information | Online Students | Academic Counseling | Career Placement | Students w/Institutional Aid | Median Earnings 10yrs After Entry | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Salisbury UniversitySalisbury, MD | Public | $$ | 1 | Salisbury University’s Master of Science in Nursing program is a rigorous, science-based program for those who wish to become nurse educators or advance to management/leadership positions in nursing. There are two tracts: one for those who wish to become nurse educators and one for those who wish to advance their careers in management/leadership. The nurse educator students take online courses in educational theory, curriculum development/program evaluation and instructional technology/teaching strategies. They also complete two practicum experiences (200 hours) on nursing education. Those who opt for the health care leadership track will study epidemiology, qualitative and quantitative research and applied statistics. They also complete two practicum experiences – 126 hours that focus on health care leadership, 126 hours that provide opportunities to apply theoretical concepts. Students in both tracts must also complete a final scholarly project. There is also an RN to MSN option don’t have their BSN, but are active registered nurses. Program Highlights: Master of Science in Nursing
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio15/1 |
AccreditationMSCHE | |||
| 2 | University of Maryland, BaltimoreBaltimore, MD | Public | $$ | 1 | The University of Maryland, Baltimore, has an online RN-to-BSN program for those looking to advance their careers. The program is fully online and may be completed as a full-time or part-time student. Students have the option of taking three courses in a focus area that can lead to a specialization in health information technology (IT) or substance use and addictions. The IT focus courses explore traditional and emerging models of care coordination and care transitions, improving care coordination, and measuring outcomes of care coordination in health care delivery. Substance abuse courses focus on screening, assessment, intervention, recovery, advocacy related to addictions, strategies to communicate behaviorial changes applicable to addictions, and population-focuses aspects of substance use and abuse. Students also must complete a community/public health practicum (90 clinical hours) during their final semester at a site convenient for them. Program Highlights: RN-to-BSN
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio7/1 |
AccreditationMSCHE |
Salisbury University
Salisbury University is an accredited university that has adapted many of its programs for online learning. The Salisbury nursing program stands out for its high NCLEX-RN pass rate. This program also provides every online student with an advisor, and all professors and faculty are experienced and prepared to bridge the gap between textbooks and the real world of healthcare.
Admission to Salisbury University is competitive. After students have completed all prerequisites, they’ll apply to the program and include transcripts of previous academic work.
Notre Dame of Maryland University
Notre Dame of Maryland University is an accredited academic institution with online RN to BSN and online accelerated second degree BSN programs. Students participate in simulations, internships, and clinical experiences. Experienced faculty teach the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the healthcare environment and obtain licensure upon graduation.
To be admitted into Notre Dame of Maryland University, students must have a high school diploma or a GED with a score of 145 or higher. They must provide all previous academic transcripts and maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher.
Frostburg State University
Frostburg State University offers a four-year BSN delivered in a hybrid format. This partially online nursing program in Maryland accepts first-year students and community college transfers. Frostburg collaborates with Allegany College of Maryland to provide a quality education and experienced faculty. While many courses can be taken online, some courses and clinical experiences must be taken on the campus.
First-year students applying to Frostburg State University will be judged by their high school transcripts, essays, letters of recommendation, and optional SAT/ACT scores. Transfer students need at least 24 credits and can transfer up to 90 credits. Your grades from a previous academic institution will not be applied to your GPA at Frostburg.
FAQs About Online Nursing Programs in Maryland
Can I earn my nursing degree in Maryland completely online?
Several academic institutions allow you to complete all coursework and assignments online. However, clinical experiences will still have to be done in person at an approved clinical location or at your school.
Will my online Maryland nursing degree be considered less valuable by employers?
Universities work hard to make sure their online programs are equal to their on-campus programs. The curriculum and at least some of the professors remain the same. An online nursing degree should not be valued any less than a traditional degree.
Are online nursing programs in Maryland more affordable than campus programs?
Online nursing programs typically cost the same as campus programs, except for the rare schools that have online students pay out-of-state tuition. Ask lots of questions to be sure you understand how your online tuition will be determined. Even if tuition is the same as for campus programs, remember you’ll save money in other areas like housing and commuting when you take an online nursing program in Maryland.
Financial Aid Opportunities for Nursing Students in Maryland
Attending college is a big financial commitment, so it’s a good idea to know how you’re going to pay for it. Fortunately, there are many financial aid options available, and many don’t require taking out student loans. If you’re currently working in the healthcare field, it’s worth asking your employer if tuition assistance is available. Federal grants, as well as private and public scholarships, are also options. Your nursing school in Maryland may offer scholarships, so be sure to research all of your options.
How to Become an RN in Maryland: Licensing Information and Requirements
When it comes to getting licensed, a lot of states have similar requirements. However you’ll also find there are important differences, too. Check the Maryland Board of Nursing for the licensing requirements you need to complete before choosing a nursing school in Maryland. After all, you need to make sure the program will meet all of your state’s nursing requirements. Here are a few detailed steps to help you get licensed as a nurse in Maryland.
Complete an Approved Program
Before you can obtain your license, you’ll need to complete a state-approved nursing program. Typically this program will be in the state, however, there can be some exceptions depending on if the state is part of the Nursing Licensure Compact. Check the Maryland Board of Nursing website to make sure the program you choose is state-approved.
Apply to take the NCLEX Exam
Once you’ve completed your nursing program, request and complete an NCLEX application. You’ll also need to complete an application for Licensure by Examination, which requires a $100 nonrefundable application fee and a criminal background check.
Take the NCLEX Exam
Once the Maryland Board of Nursing receives your application, they’ll also need an official transcript as proof that you’ve completed your Maryland nursing program requirements. At that point they will submit authorization to Pearson VUE, the NCLEX testing company, which will send you an Authorization to Test (ATT) code. Once you have the ATT, you can go online to schedule your test. If you don’t pass the NCLEX exam, you’ll need to wait 45 days before you can attempt the test again.
Receive and Maintain Your License
Once you’ve passed the NCLEX-RN exam, the Maryland Board of Nursing will issue your nursing license. You’ll need to renew it every two years and pay the $136 renewal fee.
Endorsement & Temporary License Options
If you’re interested in working before completing the NCLEX exam, you can get a temporary license by paying a $40 fee. Students obtaining their license through endorsement must apply online and pay a $100 fee. Fingerprints, verified ID, and background checks are usually part of the process.
Job Outlook for RNs in Maryland
The job outlook for registered nurses in Maryland is very optimistic through 2028. Not only are registered nurses currently in high demand, but the job rate is expected to grow more than 21 percent, which is almost double the national average. Every year Maryland has over 5,000 job openings for registered nurses, and that’s in addition to the more than 13,000 new jobs expected between now and 2028.
Employment Projections for RNs in Maryland
| Employment (2018) | New Jobs (2018-2028) | Job Growth Rate (2018-2028) | Average Annual Openings (2018-2028) | |
| Maryland | 60,620 | 13,130 | 21.7% | 5,150 |
| United States | 3,059,800 | 371,500 | 12.1% | 210,400 |
Source: Projections Central
Nursing Salaries in Maryland: How Much You Could Make as an RN
Registered nurses in Maryland make a median annual salary of $76,780, which is on the higher end when compared to the national average. The Baltimore-Columbia-Towson area and the areas around Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington (including parts of Maryland) lead the salary scale. To give you a better idea of the salaries available in individual cities in Maryland, take a closer look at the table below.
Annual Earnings for Registered Nurses in Maryland
| 10th Percentile | Median Earnings | 90th Percentile | |
| Maryland | $55,400 | $76,780 | $102,490 |
| United States | $52,080 | $73,300 | $111,220 |
| Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD | $56,120 | $77,320 | $103,260 |
| Cumberland, MD-WV | $52,420 | $70,290 | $96,580 |
| Hagerstown-Martinsburg, MD-WV | $55,010 | $72,410 | $97,450 |
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD | $55,470 | $76,820 | $101,440 |
| Salisbury, MD-DE | $53,580 | $70,330 | $99,300 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2019
Maryland Student and Professional Nursing Resources
The Maryland Nurses Association (MNA) is the only nonprofit professional membership organization for nurses in the state. The primary purpose of MNA is to provide statewide direction and a voice for the nursing profession.
This website is where you’ll find licensure requirements, state announcements concerning nurses, healthcare laws, and continuing education options.
Scholarships and Resources for Registered Nursing Students
Need a hand getting through school? This page lists the most-needed resources for nursing students, including financial aid opportunities.
Maryland Association of Nursing Students
Students attending nursing schools in Maryland will find invaluable resources ranging from scholarships to student leadership tips.
Maryland Nursing Workforce Center
This website provides nursing resources specific to Maryland, from educational videos and nursing organization links to statewide healthcare workforce reports.
More Resources
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