University of North Carolina at Wilmington

The University of North Carolina Wilmington is a distinguished public four-year university that prepares nursing students for leadership in a dynamic healthcare environment. The School of Nursing offers three pathways to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing: a traditional on-campus pre-licensure track, an intensive four-semester Accelerated BSN for those with prior degrees, and a flexible, fully online RN-to-BSN program that can be completed in as little as 12 months.

Students in the pre-licensure program complete approximately 120 credit hours, with nursing-specific coursework focusing on pathophysiology, pharmacology, and population health. The curriculum integrates hands-on learning in high-fidelity simulation labs before students transition to clinical rotations. These clinical experiences take place across New Hanover, Onslow, Brunswick, and Pender counties, providing students with broad exposure to rural and urban healthcare settings.

UNCW graduates are prepared for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam, with the program consistently maintaining pass rates above national averages. Recognized as a National League for Nursing Center of Excellence, the school is highly regarded for its online graduate programs and its focus on family-centered care. Compared to other regional programs, UNCW stands out for its extensive research opportunities and its status as a Carnegie-designated community-engaged institution.