The Ohio State University College of Nursing
Columbus, OH
Quick Facts
1914
Founded
1,100+
Enrollment
35%
Acceptance Rate
93%
NCLEX Pass Rate
About The Ohio State University College of Nursing
The Ohio State University College of Nursing is one of the largest and highest-ranked public nursing programs in the country. Located on Ohio State's massive Columbus campus, the college benefits from its partnership with the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, a nationally ranked academic medical center with over 1,400 beds. Students train in state-of-the-art simulation facilities and complete clinical rotations across the Wexner Medical Center's network of hospitals, specialty clinics, and community health organizations.
The college is a leader in nursing research, with particular strengths in self-management science, health promotion, symptom science, and health systems. Ohio State's College of Nursing was one of the first in the country to offer a fully online RN-to-BSN program and continues to innovate in program delivery. The college's large and active alumni network spans every state, providing graduates with professional connections throughout their careers.
Degree Programs Offered
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
A four-year pre-licensure program at one of the nation's largest universities, with clinical rotations at the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center and community health partners throughout Central Ohio.
RN-to-BSN
A fully online completion program for registered nurses with an associate degree who want to earn their BSN. One of the pioneering online RN-to-BSN programs in the country.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Graduate programs with specializations in Adult-Gerontology NP, Family NP, Pediatric NP, Psychiatric-Mental Health NP, Nurse-Midwifery, and Nursing Education.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
A practice-focused doctoral program for advanced practice nurses, available in hybrid format for working professionals. The program emphasizes clinical leadership and evidence-based practice improvement.
Accreditation
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The Ohio State University College of Nursing holds full CCNE accreditation for its BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD programs, reflecting its role as one of the largest and most comprehensive public nursing programs in the Midwest.
Campus & Online Options
The BSN program is on-campus in Columbus with clinical rotations at the Wexner Medical Center and partner facilities. The RN-to-BSN program is fully online. Many graduate programs offer hybrid delivery with significant online coursework. Ohio State's statewide clinical partnerships provide placement options across Ohio.
Tuition & Financial Aid
Tuition
Ohio resident undergraduate tuition and fees are approximately $11,900 per year. Out-of-state students pay approximately $35,000 per year. Graduate tuition ranges from $13,000 to $24,000 per year for Ohio residents.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Ohio State offers merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, federal financial aid, and nursing-specific awards through the College of Nursing. The university's Buckeye Affordability Grant covers tuition for qualifying Ohio families. External programs include the Nurse Corps Scholarship and Ohio nursing workforce development funds.
Admissions Overview
Admission to the BSN program is competitive. Students apply to Ohio State and are admitted to the pre-nursing track, then apply to the upper-division nursing major. The college uses holistic review including GPA, prerequisite performance, and personal statements.
Application Deadline
February 1 for fall nursing admission
Requirements
- Minimum 3.0 GPA in prerequisite courses
- Completion of prerequisite biology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, and statistics courses
- Personal statement on nursing career goals
- Two letters of recommendation
- Healthcare experience recommended
- TEAS exam score (for some admission cycles)
Student Life
Ohio State's Columbus campus is one of the largest in the country, offering Division I athletics, over 1,400 student organizations, and a vibrant campus culture. Nursing students participate in the Student Nurses Association, community health volunteering, simulation lab events, and interprofessional education. Columbus is a growing, affordable city with a diverse food scene, professional sports, arts, and a strong healthcare industry.
Great for Future Travel Nurses
Ohio State College of Nursing graduates are highly competitive for travel nursing assignments, particularly in the Midwest and across the country. Clinical training at the Wexner Medical Center, one of the largest academic medical centers in the nation, provides the high-acuity experience that travel nursing agencies seek. Ohio's NLC membership allows graduates to practice across compact states with a single license, simplifying the travel nursing lifestyle. Ohio State's massive alumni network is also a valuable asset for travel nurses seeking connections and mentorship in new cities. The college's affordable tuition and strong online graduate programs make it easy for travel nurses to continue their education while on assignment.
Frequently Asked Questions
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