Nursing School & University Rankings 2012

Because not every college offers nursing programs, general college rankings lists may not come in handy if you want to pursue this career path. College rankings are important to help you learn more about the schools you’re considering. So, what lists are best for those interested in nursing degrees?

US News Rankings

One of the best resources for college rankings is US News and World Report. They compile a general list every year of the best colleges in America, but what many people do not know is that they also compile a list of most specialized colleges. This includes a list of the best nursing graduate school in the United States. You can further search their listings by choosing your nursing specialty. They have lists for nursing service administration, family nursing, adult nursing, pediatric nursing, geriatric nursing, surgical nursing, and psychiatric nursing.

National Institute of Health Rankings

Along with the rankings by US News, the National Institute of Health, or NIH, is one of the most prominent organizations offering college rankings for nursing students. Their rankings reflect which schools have been given the most funding by the NIH, which is determined through an unbiased peer review process. The schools that receive the most funding from the NIH are those that are making the biggest strides in the medical world, so these are the best schools to attend if you want a competitive, technologically advanced program with the best professors and teaching aids. However, it is important to remember that these programs also typically have the highest standards for students, so acceptance rates are lower.

OEDb Rankings

If you’re interested in an online nursing program, check out the rankings compiled annually by Online Education Database (OEDb). This website reviews all accredited online schools, and their list takes into account a number of factors, such as class size, acceptance rate, financial aid available to students, graduation rate, and how long the school has been accredited. They only include programs where are least 50% of the degrees are give to online students.

StudentReview.com Rankings

An interesting rankings list that you should consider is the one compiled on an ongoing basis by StudentReview.com. This website surveys students who are attending schools, and by selecting “nursing” from the majors option, you can get a feel for what current and recent students think of their respective programs. You can also create a customized list by ranking the factors that are most important to you, as well as review the general list which considers all of the characteristics of the school.

General lists that include schools regardless of type of program can also help you make your final decision. Beyond looking at rankings lists, you should also visit each school you’re considering to get a feel for the campus and educational atmosphere. Sit in on some classes, talk to professors, and ask current students how they feel about the nursing program. Weigh all of these factors when you are deciding where to apply. Remember, the top school on any given rankings list isn’t necessarily the best school for you.

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