Explore Top Online Nursing Schools in Maryland
This guide to nursing schools in Maryland covers your most important questions: What are the top on-campus and online nursing programs? Are jobs and salaries growing? Where can I get financial aid? Find the answers here.
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. Get started by taking a look at our ranking of the top online nursing programs in Maryland.
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, Maryland
Private
Notre Dame of Maryland University
Baltimore, Maryland
Private
Stevenson University
Stevenson, Maryland
Private
Salisbury University
Salisbury, Maryland
Public
University of Maryland, Baltimore
Baltimore, Maryland
Public
Allegany College of Maryland
Cumberland, Maryland
Public
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
Online Learning Details for Nursing Students
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.
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.
Salary and Job Outlook for RNs in Maryland
For Registered Nurses in Maryland, career prospects shine with high earning potential and growing demand. The state’s median salary for RNs is $89,340, with experienced professionals earning up to $114,440 annually. Baltimore-Columbia-Towson offers some of the highest wages, with salaries at the top end reaching $119,150. Even in smaller markets like Hagerstown-Martinsburg and Salisbury, RNs can expect competitive median pay, reflecting the importance of skilled nurses across the state.
Maryland’s nursing workforce is projected to grow by 7.3% through 2030, adding 3,560 new positions for a total of 52,370. With an average of 3,080 job openings per year, driven by retirements and expanding healthcare services, opportunities remain plentiful. Whether you’re starting your RN career or seeking advancement, Maryland provides a dynamic healthcare environment with financial rewards to match. Check out the data below to see how nursing in Maryland aligns with your goals.
| Area | 10th Percentile | Median | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maryland | $66,880 | $89,340 | $114,440 |
| Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD | $66,670 | $89,310 | $119,150 |
| California-Lexington Park, MD | $68,640 | $85,110 | $111,060 |
| Cumberland, MD-WV | $63,040 | $78,920 | $97,740 |
| Hagerstown-Martinsburg, MD-WV | $64,550 | $83,890 | $103,520 |
| Salisbury, MD-DE | $67,710 | $82,230 | $102,830 |
Source: Registered Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area | Curr. Jobs | Proj. Jobs | New Jobs | Growth % | Avg. Ann. Openings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 3,172,500 | 3,349,900 | 177,400 | 5.60% | 193,100 |
| Maryland | 48,810 | 52,370 | 3,560 | 7.30% | 3,080 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
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.
