Nursing Careers and Training Options in Virginia (Updated)

This update explains nursing career options and required education - CNAs to advanced practice nurses - highlights RN licensure via NCLEX-RN, and describes program types and delivery. It outlines key Virginia resources, names established schools (VCU, UVA), emphasizes accreditation and NCLEX pass rates, and offers planning tips for students and working nurses.

Nursing careers: roles and paths

Nursing offers a wide range of career options: certified nursing assistants (CNAs), licensed practical/vocational nurses (LPN/LVNs), registered nurses (RNs), and advanced practice nurses such as nurse practitioners (NPs). RNs make up the largest group in the profession and work at the bedside, coordinate care, and implement nursing care plans.

Education and licensure are required for nearly every nursing role. Entry-level RN pathways include the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Graduates of either track must pass the NCLEX-RN exam for licensure. Many employers - especially hospitals accredited by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or Magnet-recognized organizations - prefer or require a BSN for new hires and for career advancement.

Advanced practice roles require graduate study (MSN or DNP) and national certification. Family nurse practitioners (FNPs), clinical nurse specialists (CNS), nurse anesthetists (CRNAs), and nurse midwives (CNMs) take on expanded clinical responsibilities and can prescribe in most states.

Program types and delivery

Nursing programs now come in classroom, hybrid, and fully online formats. Accelerated BSN programs let candidates who already hold a bachelor's degree complete a BSN in 12-18 months. RN-to-BSN and part-time options support working nurses. Clinical hours and simulation labs remain core components of every accredited program.

Continuing education, state-mandated renewal requirements, and certifications keep nurses current as the industry incorporates telehealth, population health, and data-driven care models.

Choosing a program in Virginia

Virginia offers nursing education across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. The state is home to established nursing schools such as Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) School of Nursing and the University of Virginia School of Nursing, both with undergraduate and graduate programs. Community colleges and regional campuses provide ADN programs and RN-to-BSN pathways that serve local workforce needs.

For working adults, institutions like ECPI University (formerly ECPI College of Technology) offer campus and online nursing programs. Many community colleges partner with four-year schools to create seamless transfer pathways. Prospective students should confirm program accreditation (CCNE or ACEN), NCLEX-RN pass rates, clinical placement support, and state approval before applying.

Planning your career

Match program length and delivery with your life and work commitments. Consider whether you want to enter practice as an RN via an ADN or aim for a BSN from the start. If you plan to advance into leadership or advanced practice, map a graduate pathway early: many MSN and DNP programs expect a BSN or offer bridge options for RNs.

When evaluating schools, check accreditation, graduation and NCLEX pass rates, clinical affiliations, and employer relationships in your region. Remember that nursing is a changing field: continuing education and lifelong learning are part of a nursing career.

1. Confirm current percentage of hospitals or employers requiring BSN for new RN hires and update statement accordingly.
2. Verify the current count of public and private colleges and universities in Virginia and update figures if needed.
3. Confirm ECPI University is the current institutional name and its program offerings in Virginia.