Explore the Best Nursing Schools in the Midwest: Our Top 10 Picks

The American Midwest is home to some of the nation's most respected and innovative nursing schools. These institutions are renowned for their rigorous academic programs, cutting-edge research, and extensive clinical opportunities. For aspiring nurses seeking a high-quality education, the Midwest offers a wealth of options that combine academic excellence with practical, hands-on training. Whether you are pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an advanced degree like a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), these schools provide the foundation for a successful and impactful career in healthcare.

This list highlights ten of the top nursing schools across the Midwest, chosen for their strong reputations, high NCLEX pass rates, diverse program offerings, and significant contributions to nursing research and practice. Each school provides a unique environment and set of resources to help students thrive.

Top 10 Nursing Schools in the Midwest

1. University of Michigan School of Nursing - Ann Arbor, MI

The University of Michigan's School of Nursing is consistently ranked among the best in the country. It is a powerhouse in nursing research, with faculty actively engaged in studies that shape national healthcare policy and practice. The school offers a comprehensive range of programs, from a traditional BSN to Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) specializations and highly respected DNP and PhD programs. Students benefit from diverse clinical placements at Michigan Medicine, one of the top academic medical centers in the nation, as well as in community and global health settings.

What sets Michigan apart is its emphasis on leadership and innovation. The curriculum is designed to prepare nurses not just as caregivers but as leaders who can drive change in complex healthcare systems. The school's commitment to interprofessional education means nursing students learn alongside students from medicine, pharmacy, and social work, mirroring the collaborative environments they will enter upon graduation. This holistic approach ensures graduates are well-equipped to handle the multifaceted challenges of modern nursing.

2. Case Western Reserve University, Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing - Cleveland, OH

The Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing at Case Western Reserve University is a pioneer in nursing education, having established the nation's first practice doctorate in nursing. The school is known for its forward-thinking approach and strong emphasis on evidence-based practice and research. Its location in Cleveland provides students with unparalleled access to world-class clinical partners, including the Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, and the Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center.

One of the school's most notable features is its early clinical experience. BSN students are often placed in clinical settings as early as their first semester, allowing them to apply classroom knowledge immediately. The school also excels in its graduate programs, offering a wide array of MSN, DNP, and PhD options. Its dedication to community health and addressing health disparities is another key strength, preparing graduates to serve diverse populations effectively.

3. The Ohio State University College of Nursing - Columbus, OH

As one of the largest nursing colleges in the country, The Ohio State University College of Nursing offers extensive resources and a vast network of opportunities. The college is a leader in promoting health and wellness, with a strong focus on innovation in education and practice. It offers a variety of pathways to a nursing degree, including a traditional BSN, an accelerated BSN for second-degree students, and a robust RN to BSN program online.

The graduate programs are equally impressive, with top-ranked MSN and DNP tracks that prepare advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) in specialties like nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, and nurse-midwifery. The college's affiliation with the massive Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center gives students access to a wide spectrum of clinical experiences, from primary care to highly specialized critical care environments. The emphasis on technology-enhanced learning and wellness initiatives makes it a modern and supportive place to study.

4. University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Nursing - Madison, WI

The University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Nursing is a top-tier institution known for its strong academic programs and influential research. Located in a vibrant city, the school provides a rich learning environment that balances rigorous science with compassionate, patient-centered care. The BSN program is highly competitive and emphasizes critical thinking and clinical judgment, preparing students for success in a variety of healthcare settings.

UW-Madison truly shines in its commitment to public health and community-based care. Students have opportunities to work with diverse populations across Wisconsin, addressing real-world health challenges. The school's DNP and PhD programs are nationally recognized for preparing leaders in clinical practice, research, and health policy. Its state-of-the-art simulation center allows students to practice complex skills in a safe, controlled environment before entering clinical rotations.

5. Rush University College of Nursing - Chicago, IL

Situated within the renowned Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, the Rush University College of Nursing offers an immersive and intensely practical educational experience. The college is particularly known for its graduate programs, which are consistently ranked among the best in the nation. Its Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) programs are considered models for advanced nursing education.

The unique "practitioner-teacher" model means that most faculty members are also practicing clinicians at Rush, bringing current, real-world experience directly into the classroom. This integration of education and practice is a core strength, ensuring that students are learning the most up-to-date techniques and protocols. The urban setting provides a vast array of clinical opportunities, exposing students to a wide range of patient populations and complex health issues.

6. University of Iowa College of Nursing - Iowa City, IA

With a rich history dating back to 1898, the University of Iowa College of Nursing is a long-standing leader in nursing education. It is recognized for its excellence in several specialty areas, particularly its Nurse Anesthesia DNP program, which is one of the top-ranked in the United States. The college's commitment to research is evident through its various centers focusing on areas like aging, pain management, and palliative care.

Students at the University of Iowa benefit from a close partnership with the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, a comprehensive academic medical center that provides rich learning opportunities. The college is also known for its strong BSN program, which features a curriculum focused on developing clinical reasoning and leadership skills from the very beginning. Its supportive faculty and collaborative learning environment make it a top choice for aspiring nurses.

7. University of Minnesota School of Nursing - Minneapolis, MN

The University of Minnesota School of Nursing is a leader in advancing nursing science and preparing leaders to improve health outcomes for all. The school is particularly renowned for its pioneering work in nursing informatics, health policy, and integrative health. It offers a wide spectrum of degree programs, including a highly-regarded BSN program and a DNP program with 13 different specialties.

A key feature of the school is its focus on interprofessional education and collaboration. Housed within an Academic Health Center that includes schools of medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy, nursing students learn and work alongside future colleagues from other health disciplines. This prepares them for the team-based care models prevalent in today's healthcare system. The school's strong research culture provides ample opportunities for students at all levels to get involved in groundbreaking studies.

8. Purdue University School of Nursing - West Lafayette, IN

Purdue University's School of Nursing is known for its rigorous, science-based curriculum and its integration of technology into healthcare education. The program provides a solid foundation in the biological and social sciences, preparing graduates who are not only skilled clinicians but also critical thinkers. The BSN program is designed to produce well-rounded nurses ready for practice in a variety of settings.

Students benefit from Purdue's reputation as a major research university, with opportunities to participate in interdisciplinary projects. The school's Center for Nursing Education and Simulation provides a high-tech environment for students to practice and perfect their clinical skills using realistic manikins and simulated healthcare scenarios. This focus on hands-on learning ensures that graduates are confident and competent when they begin their careers.

9. Marquette University College of Nursing - Milwaukee, WI

Rooted in the Jesuit tradition of *cura personalis*, or "care for the whole person," Marquette University's College of Nursing emphasizes holistic, compassionate, and justice-oriented care. This philosophy is woven throughout the curriculum, preparing nurses who are not only clinically proficient but also ethically grounded and culturally competent. The college offers direct admission to its BSN program for qualified high school students, providing a clear path to a nursing career.

Marquette is particularly noted for its graduate programs, including its direct-entry MSN program for students with a bachelor's degree in another field. This program provides an accelerated pathway to becoming a registered nurse and earning a master's degree. The college's location in Milwaukee offers diverse clinical placement opportunities in urban hospitals, community clinics, and public health agencies, allowing students to serve a wide range of patient populations.

10. University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) College of Nursing - Chicago, IL

The UIC College of Nursing is a major research institution located in one of the most diverse cities in the country. This setting provides a unique laboratory for learning about urban health and addressing health disparities. The college is a leader in nursing research, with significant federal funding for studies on topics ranging from chronic illness management to community health promotion.

With campuses across Illinois, UIC offers accessible and high-quality nursing education to a broad range of students. Its BSN program prepares students for the complexities of modern healthcare, while its graduate programs are among the nation's best. The DNP program, in particular, is highly respected for preparing clinical leaders. The college's commitment to diversity and inclusion creates a welcoming environment for students from all backgrounds and prepares them to care for a global society.