Connecticut Nursing Schools and Programs

by

Updated March 3, 2023

When choosing a nursing program in Connecticut, you should evaluate the school's acceptance and graduation rates, accreditation, and financial aid options.
mini logo
NurseJournal.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?

Credit: Murat Taner / The Image Bank / Getty Images

Ask almost any nurse, and they will tell you that nursing is one of the most rewarding careers. Each day holds new challenges and experiences. Whether beginning your college career or working in another field, now is a great time to go to nursing school in Connecticut.

Selecting the top nursing program in Connecticut can be difficult. You want to evaluate the school's acceptance and graduation rates, accreditation, and financial aid options. In this guide, you can discover the best nursing programs in Connecticut, salary information, job growth projections, and the highest-paying cities in the state.

Keep reading to learn more about becoming a nurse in Connecticut, or go straight to our list of the best nursing schools in Connecticut.

The Best Nursing Schools in Connecticut

The following list includes the best nursing programs in Connecticut, so you can begin evaluating programs based on the criteria most important to you.

Our Methodology: We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best nursing schools in Connecticut, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.

#1 Connecticut Nursing Schools and Programs

Yale University

  • New Haven, CT
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Yale University runs one of the best nursing schools in Connecticut. Learners can choose from eight graduate programs and pre- and post-doctoral research opportunities. 

The school emphasizes contributing to better health for all people. Students can use Yale's high-tech simulation and assessment lab for interactive, practice-based learning.

  • Program(s): Graduate entry prespecialty in nursing (GEPN); master of science in nursing (MSN); doctor of nursing practice (DNP) - leadership; DNP - clinical; post-master's certificates in adult/gerontology acute care nurse practitioner, family nurse practitioner, pediatric nurse practitioner, and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner
  • Campus: New Haven
  • Type: Private
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education 
  • Tuition: $23,557 per semester (GEPN and MSN); $15,637 per semester (DNP - leadership); $20,000 per semester (DNP - clinical); $1,820 per credit (post-master's certificates)
  • Admission Requirements: Varies by program. All require a bachelor's degree.
  • Minimum Time Commitment: Varies by program
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$55,500
Out-of-state
$55,500
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$43,300
Out-of-state
$43,300
Retention Rate
99%
Acceptance Rate
6%
Students Enrolled
13,609
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
0% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#2 Connecticut Nursing Schools and Programs

University of Connecticut

  • Storrs, CT
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The state's first public institution to offer a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN), the University of Connecticut ranks among the top nursing schools in Connecticut. Students can earn nursing degrees and certificates at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. The school also provides continuing education opportunities for RNs.   

  • Program(s): BSN; master of science in nursing; doctor of nursing practice; Ph.D. in nursing; graduate nursing certificates; certificate entry into nursing BSN program
  • Campus: Storrs
  • Type: Public
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education 
  • Tuition: $925 per credit for graduate programs; $15,030 (in-state rate for undergraduate programs); $37,698 (out-of- state rate for undergraduate programs)
  • Admission Requirements: Varies by program
  • Minimum Time Commitment: Varies by program
  • On-Campus Requirements: Varies by program
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,798
Out-of-state
$36,466
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,300
Out-of-state
$38,212
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
49%
Students Enrolled
27,280
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
14% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#3 Connecticut Nursing Schools and Programs

Quinnipiac University

  • Hamden, CT
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Quinnipiac University's School of Nursing offers various bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs that prepare graduates for healthcare leadership roles. One of the best nursing schools in Connecticut, the school partners with more than 300 clinical affiliation sites where students develop practical, hands-on skills. 

Among 2020 nursing graduates, the school reports that 95% found a job or were pursuing more education within six months of graduating.

  • Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing; master of science in nursing (MSN); online MSN in operational leadership; RN-to-MSN in operational leadership; post-bachelor's doctor of nursing practice (DNP) in nurse anesthesia; online DNP
  • Campus: Hamden 
  • Type: Private
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education 
  • Tuition: $49,170 per year (undergraduate); $1,085 per credit (MSN, post-bachelor's DNP in nurse anesthesia, online DNP); $750 per credit (online operational leadership MSN); $575 per credit for undergraduate courses and $750 per credit for graduate courses (RN-to-MSN in operational leadership)
  • Admission Requirements: Varies by program
  • Minimum Time Commitment: Varies by program
  • On-Campus Requirements: Varies by program
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 94% first-time pass rate
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $75,550 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$46,790
Out-of-state
$46,790
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,990
Out-of-state
$18,990
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
70%
Students Enrolled
9,708
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
22% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#4 Connecticut Nursing Schools and Programs

Fairfield University

  • Fairfield, CT
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students looking for nursing programs in Connecticut should consider Fairfield University's Marion Peckham Egan School of Nursing & Health Studies. The modern Jesuit school focuses on improving health outcomes for vulnerable and underserved populations. 

Nursing majors can join the Student Nurses Association and Sigma Theta Tau Mu Chi, the honor society of nursing.

  • Program: Traditional undergraduate bachelor of science in nursing (BSN); accelerated second-degree nursing (BSN)  
  • Campus: Fairfield
  • Type: Private
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education 
  • Tuition: $53,630 per year, $765 per credit (adult nursing RN-to-BSN degree); $875 per credit (BSN second degree, non-cohort); $12,875 per semester (BSN second degree)
  • Admission Requirements: Varies by program
  • Minimum Time Commitment: Varies by program
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93% first-time pass rate
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $76,750 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$49,080
Out-of-state
$49,080
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,795
Out-of-state
$18,795
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
57%
Students Enrolled
5,349
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
16% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#5 Connecticut Nursing Schools and Programs

Sacred Heart University

  • Fairfield, CT
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Sacred Heart University's College of Nursing offers some of the best nursing programs in Connecticut. Students choose from 13 undergraduate and graduate nursing degrees and certificates with online and on-campus options. Nursing majors get access to state-of-the-art nursing simulation and critical skills labs that provide hands-on practice.

  • Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing (BSN); second-degree BSN; online RN-to-BSN degree; online RN-to-BSN-to-MSN; post-bachelor's doctor of nursing practice (DNP); online master of science in nursing (MSN) in clinical nurse leader, nursing education, nursing management and executive leadership, or family nurse practitioner; online post-master's DNP; online home health certificate for RNs; online advanced graduate certificate in nursing education; online advanced graduate certificate in nursing management and executive leadership
  • Campus: Fairfield
  • Type: Private
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education 
  • Tuition: $995 per credit (DNP); $695 per credit (MSN); $955 per credit (MSN-family nurse practitioner); $22,480 per semester (undergraduate programs; nursing tuition differential applies to some courses)
  • Admission Requirements: Varies by program
  • Minimum Time Commitment: Varies by program
  • On-Campus Requirements: Varies by program
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 99% first-time pass rate
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $74,930 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$42,800
Out-of-state
$42,800
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$30,427
Out-of-state
$30,427
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
9,156
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
34% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#6 Connecticut Nursing Schools and Programs

Central Connecticut State University

  • New Britain, CT
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Central Connecticut State University offers some of Connecticut's top bachelor of science in nursing (BSN), RN-to-BSN, and master of science in nursing (MSN) programs. 

Nursing majors can apply for nursing-specific scholarships through the school's foundation. Students get experiential learning opportunities through the university's nursing simulation suites and laboratory. The nursing programs emphasize patient-centered, culturally sensitive care and collaboration.

  • Program(s): BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN
  • Campus: New Britain
  • Type: Public
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education 
  • Undergraduate Tuition: $5,731 per term for in-state learners; $7,272 per term for New England residents; $12,433 per term for out-of-state learners
  • Graduate Tuition: $6,424 per term for in-state learners; $8,343 per term for New England residents; $13,036 per term for out-of-state learners
  • Admission Requirements: Varies by program
  • Minimum Time Commitment: Varies by program
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100% first-time pass rate
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $68,140 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,924
Out-of-state
$17,726
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,378
Out-of-state
$19,008
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
66%
Students Enrolled
11,154
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
9% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#7 Connecticut Nursing Schools and Programs

Norwalk Community College

  • Norwalk, CT
  • 2 years
  • Campus

Norwalk Community College's four-semester associate degree in nursing (ADN) ranks among the top nursing programs in Connecticut. The program prepares graduates for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses. 

The school participates in the Connecticut Community College Nursing Program. The curriculum includes an interdisciplinary mix of liberal arts, biological and social science, and nursing courses.

  • Program: ADN
  • Campus: Norwalk
  • Type: Public
  • Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing 
  • Tuition: $166 per credit for in-state learners; $249 per credit for New England Board of Higher Education learners; $498 per credit for out-of-state learners
  • Admission Requirements: High school or GED diploma; completion of college preparatory coursework; Test of Essential Academic Skills test results; official SAT or ACT scores (if using these to meet math requirements) 
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 4 semesters
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95% first-time pass rate
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $64,990 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,984
Out-of-state
$11,952
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
5,083
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
18% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#8 Connecticut Nursing Schools and Programs

Northwestern Connecticut Community College

  • Winsted, CT
  • 2 years
  • Campus

Students looking for associate degree in nursing (ADN) programs in Connecticut should consider Northwestern Connecticut Community College. The program is part of the Connecticut Community College Nursing Program, six programs throughout the state's community college system. 

Nursing majors can graduate in 18 months if they choose an accelerated option.

  • Program: ADN
  • Campus: Winsted
  • Type: Public
  • Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing 
  • Tuition: $166 per credit for in-state learners; $249 per credit for New England Board of Higher Education learners; $498 per credit for out-of-state learners
  • Admission Requirements: High school or GED diploma; completion of college preparatory coursework; Test of Essential Academic Skills test results; official SAT or ACT scores (if using these to meet math requirements) 
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 18 months (4 semesters)
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90% first-time pass rate
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $63,000 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,984
Out-of-state
$11,952
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
61%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,308
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
40% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#9 Connecticut Nursing Schools and Programs

University of Hartford

  • West Hartford, CT
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The College of Education, Nursing and Health Professions at the University of Hartford offers bachelor of science in nursing (BSN), RN-to-BSN, and master of science in nursing (MSN) programs. 

Nursing students participate in clinical placements at major healthcare facilities and hospitals in the Hartford area. Nursing programs emphasize community service, clinical expertise, and quality teaching.

  • Program(s): BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN
  • Campus: West Hartford
  • Type: Private
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education 
  • Undergraduate Tuition: $20,852 per term
  • Graduate Tuition: $665 per credit
  • Admission Requirements: Varies by program
  • Minimum Time Commitment: Varies by program
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $80,310 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$39,220
Out-of-state
$39,220
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,292
Out-of-state
$14,292
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
6,773
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
18% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#10 Connecticut Nursing Schools and Programs

Naugatuck Valley Community College

  • Waterbury, CT
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Naugatuck Valley Community College participates in the Connecticut Community College Nursing Program, sharing a common curriculum with six other nursing programs in Connecticut community colleges. The 65-credit associate degree in nursing (ADN) develops critical thinking and fundamental nursing skills. 

Graduates can continue their education with a bachelor's at other schools in the state.

  • Program: ADN
  • Campus: Waterbury
  • Type: Public
  • Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing 
  • Tuition: $166 per credit for in-state learners; $249 per credit for New England Board of Higher Education learners, $498 per credit for out-of-state learners
  • Admission Requirements: High school or GED diploma; completion of college preparatory coursework; Test of Essential Academic Skills test results; official SAT or ACT scores (if using these to meet math requirements)
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 4 semesters
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 98% first-time pass rate
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $66,610 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,984
Out-of-state
$11,952
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
61%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
6,055
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
16% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

Featured Online MSN Programs

How to Choose a Nursing Program in Connecticut

When choosing a nursing school in Connecticut, there are specific factors you should consider. Begin by determining what is most important to you. Many students prioritize tuition costs, as it can significantly impact the years after graduation when it comes to paying off loans.

Balance overall costs against available financial aid for nurses offered through the school. For example, some schools have a strong work-study program that helps lower a student's debt.

In addition, Connecticut maintains a student financial aid portal to help students navigate the complexities of loans and grants. It also lists some of the state-specific financial opportunities. These include the CHESLA loan program and the Roberta B. Willis Scholarship programs.

Other considerations may include the acceptance rate and whether you can take some or most of your classes online. The nursing program in Connecticut you choose must be accredited. This allows you to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). This test is mandatory to get your state license to practice. The school's NCLEX pass rate can also demonstrate how closely the program prepares students for success.

Why Become a Nurse in Connecticut

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), nursing employment is expected to grow by 9% from 2020-2030. Nearly every state struggles with a nursing shortage, and Connecticut is no different.

Connecticut began addressing the shortage in 2007, putting statewide initiatives into place. These include programs to increase the number of faculty, nursing loan repayment programs, funding to higher education institutions, and recruitment and nurse retention campaigns.

The Connecticut Center for Nursing Workforce began to support sustainable, diverse, and exceptional healthcare. It also provides nursing education reports and statistics, including graduate rates across the state and student demographics.

Connecticut does not have a right-to-work law. These laws allow employees to decide whether they want to join or support a union. In Connecticut, union membership is not a requirement for employment. Instead, employees can choose if they want to join a union.

Connecticut has good education systems, a beautiful coastline, fresh seafood, and a rich history. This has made the area attractive for living and tourism.

Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Connecticut

The cost-of-living index in Connecticut is 119.5, compared to the average cost-of-living index in the U.S. of 100. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for a registered nurse in 2020 is $75,330. The average salary in Connecticut is roughly $9,000 higher at $84,850. This ranks the average salary for Connecticut nurses at 12th in the United States.

The median salary in the U.S. for nurse practitioners (NPs) is $111,680, with Connecticut NPs earning an average annual salary of $116,780. Areas that employ the highest number of advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) include physicians' offices, hospitals, outpatient care centers, and educational settings, such as colleges and universities.

Nurses in Connecticut can expect job market growth. The Connecticut Department of Labor ranks nursing as one of the top-growing occupations, projecting 2,850 new job openings from 2018-2028.

The average annual salary for nurses in Connecticut is higher than the national median annual salary, which can help offset the high cost of living in the area. The table below includes salary figures for the top five metropolitan areas in Connecticut for RN salaries.

Employers located in these areas include Yale New Haven Hospital, Hartford Hospital, and St. Francis Hospital and Medical Center.

Highest-Paying Cities for Nurses in Connecticut
Top Paying Metropolitan Areas Average Salary for RNs
Danbury $91,230
Bridgeport — Stamford — Norwalk $88,870
New Haven $86,490
Norwich — New London — Westerly $86,330
Hartford — West Hartford — East Hartford $83,010
Source: BLS

Steps to Becoming a Nurse in Connecticut

In Connecticut, it is the Connecticut Board of Examiners, under the Department of Public Health that oversees nursing licensure. A candidate must have completed an accredited nursing program that meets Connecticut guidelines to practice in the state.

RN Requirements

The requirements to become an RN in Connecticut are similar to RN requirement in other states. Students must graduate from a program accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. After graduating from a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) or an associate degree in nursing (ADN) program, the candidate must pass the NCLEX-RN examination before applying online through the Department of Public Health for their state nursing license.

The Connecticut Board of Examiners for Nursing issues a state license when the applicant meets the requirements. These requirements include a $180 application fee, transcripts from the nursing program, validation of your nursing degree, and a passing score from the NCLEX-RN.

New nurses are required to attain their state license through examination. However, nurses moving to Connecticut with a valid and active license from another state may apply for a license endorsement.

Nurses can renew their licenses online. This can be done 60 days before the license expires. The nurse fills out the application and submits the $110 application fee and the necessary continuing education for nurses contact hours, including two hours on screening for psychological conditions and two hours on suicide prevention.

APRN Requirements

Nurses who choose to advance their education are required to complete a master of science in nursing or a doctor of nursing practice program to practice as an APRN. The program must be accredited and meet Connecticut guidelines to get licensure from the Connecticut Board of Examiners. The APRN candidate must hold an active RN license and maintain certification by a national certifying organization approved by the board of examiners.

An APRN must also hold professional liability insurance and get a Connecticut Controlled Substance Registration to prescribe controlled substances. An APRN must first practice in collaboration with a licensed physician for 2,000 hours before being able to practice independently.

APRNs licensed in another state must first apply for an RN license endorsement and then complete the APRN licensing requirements. The initial application fee is $200, and the renewal fee is $130.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Connecticut


Is there a nursing shortage in Connecticut?

As in the rest of the U.S., there is a shortage of nurses in Connecticut. The Department of Labor projects there will be 2,850 job openings in 2030. Contributing factors include an aging workforce and nurses who have begun taking jobs outside the hospital after the pandemic.

How do I get a Connecticut nursing license?

Nurses in Connecticut apply for their nursing license through the Connecticut Board of Examiners, part of the Department of Public Health. Nurses can apply for the initial license or renew their license online by submitting the necessary documentation and application fee.

How long does it take to get a Connecticut nursing license?

For new nurses, it can take up to four weeks for the board of examiners to issue a license after receiving all necessary documentation. Nurses who hold a current license in another state can get a temporary permit within 15 business days after the board of examiners receives the necessary documents and application fee. The temporary license is valid for 120 days and is not renewable.

How long is a Connecticut RN license good for?

Your RN license is good for one year and expires in your birthday month. For example, if you received your first Connecticut RN license in May, and your birthday is in November, your license will expire in November and then every November after.

Find Nursing Programs in Other States

State

NurseJournal.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?

Whether you’re looking to get your pre-licensure degree or taking the next step in your career, the education you need could be more affordable than you think. Find the right nursing program for you.

Popular Resources

Resources and articles written by professionals and other nurses like you.