Best associate's degree in nursing (ADN) programs in North Carolina

The demand by healthcare employers for registered nurses (RNs) is rapidly increasing. Many students choose to enroll in associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) programs so that they can enter the workforce quickly. Although the ADN curriculum is less comprehensive than a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree program, it still adequately prepares students for the NCLEX-RN national licensure examination and subsequent employment.

Education pathways
A two-year course is required of all ADN students who are new to the nursing sector. Since many North Carolina schools offer evening, weekend, and online classes, students can easily engage simultaneously in work and study.

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Some colleges and universities also offer one-year bridge programs. These programs enable existing licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to achieve licensure as registered nurses through an accelerated and streamlined course of study.

North Carolina job market
North Carolina’s nurses can expect strong employment prospects. The state employs over 88,000 RNs at a median annual salary of almost $60,000. The top quarter of the state’s nursing workforce receives $70,000 or more in annual compensation. Major healthcare providers throughout the state have frequent openings for RNs, including Tenet Health, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and Genesis HealthCare.

We’ve identified the best ADN programs available in North Carolina and profiled them below, including their students’ recent NCLEX test scores. We hope that aspiring RNs will find this an invaluable resource.