The Best Historically Black College or University (HBCU) Nursing Programs in 2024

Obtaining a nursing education at a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) serves as a cornerstone for shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals. These institutions offer a diverse array of programs, ranging from Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), with a primary focus on preparing students for the multifaceted challenges within the field.
Discover the essential aspects of these programs, delving into prerequisites, coursework details, and the crucial hands-on clinical training pivotal in molding competent nurses. Additionally, gain insights into the financial investments required for these programs and the potential return, examining salary expectations. Whether you’re embarking on your nursing journey or seeking advancement in your career, this exploration provides comprehensive insights to help you make an informed decision about your education at an HBCU.

What Is an HBCU Nursing School?

HBCU nursing schools were originally established to serve the Black community during a period of segregation in U.S. history when access to predominantly white institutions was denied. Over time, these institutions have evolved, continuing to offer a diverse range of nursing programs from undergraduate to graduate levels. The educational opportunities provided by HBCU nursing schools emphasize leadership, technical skills, and professional practice.

Accredited nursing programs at HBCUs aim to prepare students for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), a vital step toward becoming registered nurses (RNs). The programs extend beyond RN preparation, encompassing advanced practice, research, and faculty roles.

HBCU nursing schools are renowned for fostering supportive environments and promoting diversity in the healthcare workforce. While they play a crucial role in educating Black nurses and other minority students, these institutions welcome students of all races and backgrounds.

The Cheapest Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) Programs in the USA

Best HBCU BSN Programs

The following HBCU BSN programs have been carefully selected based on a comprehensive methodology that considers reader preferences and incorporates factors such as NCLEX pass rates, graduation rates, student-faculty ratios, pricing, program modes, durations, and admission rates. The goal is to provide aspiring nurses with a curated list of institutions that excel in delivering high-quality nursing education.

1. Bethune-Cookman Univeristy

Bethune-Cookman University’s BSN program, offered through its School of Nursing within the College of Nursing & Health Sciences, stands out as a premier choice. This 120-credit hour program spans eight semesters (four academic years) and is designed to produce professional nurse leaders advocating for health and wellness. The curriculum, grounded in faith-based principles, integrates knowledge from various disciplines, including liberal arts, biological sciences, physical sciences, behavioral sciences, and nursing. Graduates emerge as competent and visionary leaders, well-versed in innovative and culturally sensitive healthcare practices.

The program boasts impressive statistics, including a high NCLEX-RN pass rate of 91.67%, a 100% job placement rate, and an 82% program completion rate. Accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc. (ACEN) and approved by the Florida Board of Nursing (FBON), Bethune-Cookman University’s BSN program aligns with the highest standards of nursing education.

2. Albany State University

Albany State University (ASU) offers a comprehensive BSN program catering to diverse students, including high school graduates, transfer students, and those changing their major to nursing. The program exposes students to various nursing specializations, such as Women’s Health, Pediatrics, and Adult Medical-Surgical, preparing them for the NCLEX-RN state licensing examination.

ASU provides two primary tracks for the BSN degree:

1. Generic BSN Program (2+2 Format): This track follows a “2+2 program” structure, with the first two years dedicated to core curriculum courses and the last two years focused on nursing courses. Admissions are available in the Fall semester, with a blend of on-campus and potentially online or hybrid courses. Clinical experiences occur in diverse healthcare settings.

2. Accelerated BSN Program: Tailored for individuals with a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field and a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, this expedited program spans five consecutive semesters. Courses, predominantly on-campus with online or hybrid options, equip graduates for various nursing roles.

Albany State University’s commitment to providing a well-rounded nursing education is reflected in its emphasis on preparing nurses as generalists, leaders, advocates, change agents, healthcare providers, health educators, and consumers of research.

Embarking on a Nursing Journey at HBCUs

Whether you are at the threshold of your nursing education or contemplating a career advancement, HBCU nursing programs offer a unique and enriching experience. By exploring the intricacies of these programs, from curriculum details to financial considerations, you gain the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about your educational journey. HBCUs continue to contribute significantly to the diversity and excellence within the nursing profession, ensuring that future healthcare leaders are equipped with the skills and perspectives needed for success.

3. Grambling State University

The nursing program at Grambling State University provides a comprehensive Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) designed to equip students for a fulfilling career in healthcare. The program is meticulously crafted to prioritize the advancement of healthcare providers through cutting-edge education, ensuring that students acquire the essential knowledge and skills vital for success in the dynamic and evolving field of nursing.

Program Highlights:

– The program entails a rigorous curriculum of 120 credit hours, offering a well-rounded educational experience.
– Students will actively engage in pre-nursing coursework and must successfully complete specific prerequisites before advancing to the core nursing curriculum.
– The curriculum encompasses in-depth study in areas such as Adult Health, Nursing Practice, Community Health, Management, and more, providing a holistic and specialized approach to nursing education.

Best HBCU RN to BSN Programs

1. Fayetteville State University

Fayetteville State University stands out with its online RN to BSN program, designed to cater to the needs of registered nurses (RNs) aspiring to elevate their careers. This innovative program places a strong emphasis on developing communication skills, leadership abilities, and critical thinking, essential attributes for pursuing higher-paying roles within the nursing profession.

Program Highlights:

– The program is thoughtfully structured to build upon the existing coursework completed by RNs, ensuring a seamless transition to advanced nursing education.
– It includes comprehensive instruction in crucial areas such as health assessment, evidence-based practices, community health, nursing trends, and emergency care.
– Offering the flexibility of online learning, the RN to BSN program at Fayetteville State University can be completed in just one year, allowing RNs to balance their academic pursuits with professional responsibilities.

2. Albany State University

Albany State University takes a forward-thinking approach with its RN to BSN completion program, tailored for RNs who hold an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN or ASN). This fully online program is designed to be completed in as few as two consecutive semesters, offering a streamlined pathway for RNs to attain their BSN.

Program Highlights:

– Engaging in collaborative delivery, the program is part of the University System of Georgia’s (USG) eMajor Nurse Collaborative, fostering a supportive learning environment.
– The online format, facilitated through USG’s eCampus GoVIEW and Albany State University’s GeorgiaVIEW learning management systems, ensures accessibility and convenience.
– Recognizing the value of previous education, the program grants credit for up to 33 semester hours from the RN’s previous ASN/ADN degree, providing a tailored and efficient educational experience.

– The curriculum extends beyond the associate degree, preparing graduates for diverse roles in leadership, health promotion, disease prevention, community health, and research.
– Graduates are well-positioned for advanced education, seamlessly transitioning into graduate nursing programs to further enhance their professional journey.

3. Southern University and A&M College

Southern University and A&M College pioneers a 100% online RN to BSN program, catering to the needs of RNs who have completed an ADN from a nationally accredited program. This program is an ideal choice for nurses seeking career advancement without disrupting their current work and personal commitments.

Program Highlights:

– The program offers unparalleled online flexibility, allowing practicing nurses to pursue their BSN at their own convenience.
– Instructors with real-world nursing experience lead the online platform, providing expert teaching, guidance, and support to ensure a high-quality education.
– Establishing meaningful affiliation agreements with several community colleges facilitates a seamless transfer of academic credit from associate degree programs to the BSN program at Southern University.

Admission Criteria:
Applicants are required to hold an associate degree from an ACEN or CCNE-accredited nursing program, possess an active and unencumbered RN license, and have earned a “C” or better in all nursing and required prerequisite courses.

Plan of Study:
The RN to BSN Plan of Study is conveniently available online, and all prerequisite courses must be successfully completed before initiating the program.

Best HBCU MSN Programs

1. Albany State University

Albany State University distinguishes itself with an MSN program featuring specializations meticulously designed to prepare nurses for advanced practice roles and leadership positions within the healthcare landscape. This program builds upon the foundational knowledge acquired during baccalaureate nursing education, extending both theoretical and clinical foundations.

Specializations Offered:

– Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
– Nurse Educator
– Nursing Informatics

2. Grambling State University

Grambling State University’s Graduate Nursing Program is a beacon of excellence, encouraging students to cultivate critical thinking, foster healthy habits, comprehend the impact of social institutions and health policy, and integrate advanced practice nursing roles knowledge. The faculty employs Patricia Benner’s theoretical framework, guiding students from “Novice to Expert,” ensuring they progress to become competent practitioners.

Program Tracks:

– Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
– Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)
– Nurse Educator

3. Alcorn University

Alcorn University’s Graduate Nursing Program offers two primary options for nurses holding a baccalaureate degree, seeking to advance their careers through the pursuit of a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).

Program Options:

– Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
– Nurse Educator

Best HBCU DNP Programs

1. Southern University and A&M College

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at Southern University and A&M College is a practice-focused doctorate meticulously designed to prepare advanced nurse practitioners for influential leadership roles in the ever-evolving healthcare field. This program is tailored for those aspiring to engage in advanced clinical nursing practice and attain the esteemed rank of nurse executive leadership.

Program Highlights:

– The DNP program places a strategic focus on translating research into practice, evaluating evidence, applying research findings in decision-making, and implementing clinical innovations to instigate positive changes in nursing practice.
– Tailored for nurses looking to assume significant roles in healthcare settings, the program emphasizes the application of research findings to real-world practice.
– The curriculum is thoughtfully designed to enhance the leadership skills of nurses, preparing them to make impactful decisions and implement evidence-based practices effectively.

2. Alcorn University

Alcorn University’s DNP program is tailored for Family Nurse Practitioners (FNPs) seeking a Post-Master’s DNP degree. This program, structured as a full-time progression option, aims to prepare FNPs for the highest echelons of clinical nursing practice.

Program Objectives:

– Emphasizing Evidence-Based Practice: The DNP program places a strong emphasis on evaluating and applying evidence that supports nursing practice, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
– Quality Improvement and Health Care Systems: Students delve into creating practice delivery systems to enhance client outcomes, focusing on quality improvement within healthcare systems.
– Health Policy: The curriculum includes comprehensive education on the evaluation of practice models and health policy, ensuring graduates are well-versed in the broader healthcare landscape.
– DNP Project: A substantial component of the program is the DNP Project, a culmination of the student’s mastery of an advanced practice specialty area, serving as a requirement for the attainment of the DNP degree.
– Clinical Practicum Hours: These hours are imperative for supporting the development and completion of the DNP Project, ensuring that students have not only mastered theoretical concepts but also acquired practical skills necessary for doctoral-level advanced nursing practice.

3. Prairie View A&M University

Prairie View A&M University’s DNP program is meticulously structured to prepare graduates for leadership roles encompassing both direct patient care and system-based care settings. This post-master’s entry program is designed to enhance the knowledge and expertise of professional nurses in information management and the application of evidence-based scientific principles.

Program Objectives:

– Leadership in Care: The DNP program equips nurses to take on leadership roles in improving care quality and the management of information and organizations, contributing to individual and population health outcomes.
– Expertise Development: Graduates emerge as experts in directing care, advocating for accountability, and delivering care that actively contributes to improving population health outcomes.
– Transformational Leadership: The program places a significant emphasis on the development of transformational leaders who can influence health policy, practice, and evaluation in collaboration with inter-professional teams and partnerships, shaping the future of healthcare.

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HBCU Nursing Programs Costs & Salary Expectations

The anticipated expenses associated with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) nursing programs can exhibit significant variations, influenced by various factors such as the academic degree level, the geographical location of the HBCU, the enrollment status of the student (full-time or part-time), and additional considerations. Below are comprehensive insights into the cost considerations for HBCU nursing programs:

Tuition Fees:
Tuition fees represent a substantial portion of the overall costs. The fee structures can vary considerably among institutions. Public HBCUs often offer lower in-state tuition rates compared to out-of-state rates, while private HBCUs may have higher tuition costs but may present additional scholarship opportunities.

Degree Level:
The degree level is a critical determinant of program costs.

– Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs generally incur lower expenses due to their shorter duration and fewer credit hours.
– Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs tend to be more expensive, reflecting the extended duration and comprehensive coursework.
– Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs often entail higher tuition costs owing to the advanced nature of the study and the expertise of the faculty. However, these programs may offer increased funding opportunities through grants, fellowships, and assistantships.

Additional Fees:
Beyond tuition, students may encounter additional fees such as laboratory fees, technology fees, student activity fees, and other campus-specific charges.

Financial Aid and Scholarships:
Many HBCUs provide financial aid packages, scholarships, grants, and work-study programs to alleviate the financial burden of nursing programs. Students are encouraged to explore both internal and external scholarship opportunities.

Salary Expectations:

Salary expectations for nursing professionals in 2024 are contingent on several factors, including geographic location, experience level, educational attainment, nursing specialization, and industry.

As per the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the national mean annual wage for Registered Nurses (RNs) stands at $89,010. The lowest 10th percentile earns $61,250, while the 90th percentile earns $129,400 annually. The highest employment levels are observed in general medicine and surgical hospitals, with an annual mean wage of $90,600, equivalent to an hourly wage of $43.56.

The highest salary states include:

• California: $133,340
• Hawaii: $113,220
• Oregon: $106,610
• Massachusetts: $104,150
• Alaska: $103,310

For Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) specializing as Nurse Practitioners (NPs), the most recent data from the BLS reports they earn an annual salary of:

• Median: $121,610 or $58.47 per hour
• Lowest 10%: $87,340 or $41.99 per hour
• Highest 10%: $165,240 or $79.44 per hour

The BLS doesn’t specify between NP specialties, however, according to ZipRecruiter, the average salaries for NP specialties are:

• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): $124,024.00
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): $128,141.00
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP): $125,190.00
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP): $139,590.00
• Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP): $130,333.00
• Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP): $223,503.00

Salaries for other APRN specialties vary, with nurse midwives averaging $110,128 and clinical nurse specialists at $87,539 on average.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q: What accreditation should I look for in an HBCU nursing program?

When researching HBCU nursing programs, seek accreditation from either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). These accreditations ensure adherence to high standards of quality and academic excellence in nursing education.

Q: Are online RN to BSN programs available at HBCUs?

Many HBCUs offer online RN to BSN programs, providing flexibility for working nurses. These programs maintain the same standards as on-campus programs and often hold accreditation from reputable institutions.

Q: What undergraduate programs in nursing do HBCUs offer?

HBCUs provide various undergraduate nursing programs, including traditional BSN programs, accelerated BSN programs for individuals with a prior bachelor’s degree, and RN to BSN programs for current RNs seeking further education.

Q: How do HBCU nursing programs prepare students for a nursing career?

HBCU nursing programs prepare students for nursing careers by establishing a robust foundation in health sciences, patient care, and community health. Emphasis is placed on cultural competence, leadership, and research, equipping graduates for diverse roles in the healthcare system.

Q: What factors should I consider when enrolling in an HBCU nursing program?
When contemplating enrollment in an HBCU nursing program, assess accreditation status, faculty expertise, availability of clinical placements, graduation rates, NCLEX pass rates, and support services for nursing students. Additionally, consider program costs, financial aid availability, and the program’s flexibility to accommodate personal and professional commitments.