Top 20 Military Friendly Nursing Schools in the USA

Last updated on July 29th, 2026 at 06:09 pm

Reading Time: 23 minutes

If you’re thinking about becoming a nurse after your military service, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, I’m going to share my picks for the top 20 military friendly nursing schools in the United States. There are hundreds of excellent nursing programs out there, but some schools simply do a better job of supporting Veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard members, Reservists, military spouses, and their families.

I’ll be the first to admit that this list is subjective. These aren’t paid rankings, and no school paid to be included. I put this list together after spending hours researching nursing programs, Veteran resources, military education benefits, graduation outcomes, and each school’s overall reputation. My goal isn’t to tell you where you should go to school—it’s to give you a solid starting point so you can narrow your options and do your own research.

As a Veteran myself, I know that transitioning from the military to civilian life isn’t always easy. Choosing the right college can make that transition much smoother. The best military friendly nursing schools understand the unique challenges military students face. They offer flexible scheduling, knowledgeable Veteran support staff, generous education benefits, and programs that recognize the leadership and healthcare experience many service members already possess.

Whether you’re leaving active duty, serving in the National Guard or Reserve, or using your GI Bill after military service, I hope this guide helps you find a nursing program that’s a good fit for your goals. Nursing can be an incredibly rewarding profession, and with the demand for qualified nurses continuing to grow across the country, it’s a career field that’s well worth considering.

How to Choose a Military Friendly Nursing School: My Tips

There are a lot of excellent nursing schools in the United States, so choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Everyone has different priorities, and the “best” school for someone else may not be the best school for you. Before you submit your applications, I encourage you to spend some time thinking about what matters most to you. A little research now can save you a lot of time, money, and frustration later.

One of the first things I’d look at is cost. College is a major investment, but if you’ve served in the military, you have access to education benefits that many students don’t. The Post-9/11 GI Bill, Montgomery GI Bill, Tuition Assistance, Yellow Ribbon Program, state Veteran benefits, and military scholarships can dramatically reduce your out-of-pocket expenses. Some schools also do a much better job than others of helping military students maximize these benefits. Before making a decision, talk with the school’s Veteran Services Office and ask plenty of questions. They can often help you stretch your education benefits much further than you might expect.

Next, think about flexibility. Life doesn’t stop just because you’re going back to school. Many Veterans are raising families, working full-time jobs, serving in the National Guard or Reserve, or balancing multiple responsibilities. That’s why flexible nursing programs can be such a big advantage. Look for schools that offer evening classes, hybrid programs, online coursework, accelerated BSN options, or part-time schedules if those fit your lifestyle. Also, if you worked in healthcare while serving in the military—perhaps as a Combat Medic, Navy Corpsman, or Air Force Medical Technician—see if the school awards academic credit for your military training and experience. That could save you both time and money.

Another thing I’d pay close attention to is the school’s reputation. Nursing school is challenging, and you want to graduate from a program that’s respected by employers. Look at NCLEX pass rates, graduation rates, job placement statistics, and accreditation. Schools with strong partnerships with hospitals and healthcare systems often provide better clinical experiences, and those clinical rotations frequently lead to employment opportunities after graduation. Don’t just focus on rankings, though. Sometimes a regional school with an excellent reputation among local hospitals may be a better choice than a nationally famous university.

You should also take a close look at the curriculum. Every nursing program covers the fundamentals, but many schools offer unique strengths. Some emphasize leadership development, while others specialize in rural healthcare, trauma care, pediatrics, critical care, mental health, or advanced practice nursing. Think about where you’d like your career to go over the next 10 or 20 years. Even if you’re not completely sure today, choosing a school with opportunities to explore different specialties can open more doors down the road.

Finally, don’t underestimate the importance of Veteran support services. In my opinion, this is one of the biggest differences between a military-friendly school and a school that’s simply willing to accept your GI Bill. Look for colleges with a dedicated Veterans Center, knowledgeable advisors who understand military education benefits, active Student Veterans organizations, mentorship programs, tutoring services, career counseling, and mental health resources. Transitioning from military life to college isn’t always easy, and having people on campus who understand your background can make a huge difference.

One last piece of advice: don’t choose a school simply because it appears at the top of someone else’s list—including mine. Visit the campus if you can. Talk with current students. Meet with nursing faculty. Speak with the Veteran Services Office. Ask questions about clinical rotations, graduation rates, licensing exam success, and employment opportunities. The more information you gather, the more confident you’ll feel about your decision. Finding the right nursing school isn’t just about earning a degree—it’s about setting yourself up for a successful and rewarding career after your military service.

Top 20 Military Friendly Nursing Schools

Let’s start with # 20 and work down to the top spot.

#20: University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing

If you’re looking for a nursing school with an outstanding reputation and a strong commitment to innovation, it’s hard to overlook the University of Texas at Austin. Founded in 1883, UT Austin has grown into one of the largest and most respected public universities in the country. Its School of Nursing has earned national recognition for producing highly skilled nurses, nurse educators, and healthcare leaders who work in hospitals, clinics, research facilities, and military healthcare systems around the world.

One thing that really impressed me while researching this school is its commitment to research. The School of Nursing receives millions of dollars in research funding each year to study everything from chronic disease management to improving patient outcomes. That means students aren’t just learning from textbooks—they’re learning from faculty who are helping shape the future of healthcare. The school also consistently ranks among the nation’s best nursing programs and has been recognized for providing excellent value to graduate students.

UT Austin is also an excellent option for Veterans, active-duty service members, and military family members. The university has a dedicated Veterans Education and Transition Services office that helps military students navigate GI Bill benefits, transfer military training when appropriate, and adjust to college life. Veterans will also find a large military community on campus, making it easier to connect with other students who understand the transition from military to civilian life.

If you want a nationally recognized nursing degree backed by world-class research, outstanding faculty, and strong Veteran support services, the University of Texas at Austin deserves serious consideration.

#19: Drexel University College of Nursing and Health Professions

Drexel University has been preparing healthcare professionals for well over a century and has built an outstanding reputation for combining classroom education with real-world experience. Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Drexel is perhaps best known for pioneering one of the nation’s largest cooperative education (co-op) programs, where students alternate between academics and professional work experiences. That approach gives nursing students valuable hands-on experience long before graduation.

One of the things that makes Drexel stand out is its emphasis on experiential learning. Students don’t simply spend their time sitting in classrooms listening to lectures. Instead, they gain clinical experience in hospitals and healthcare settings throughout the Philadelphia region, one of the largest medical hubs in the United States. By graduation, many students already have hundreds of hours of practical experience caring for patients.

Drexel has also made a significant commitment to serving military students and Veterans. The university participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program, offers dedicated Veteran support services, and has repeatedly been recognized as a military-friendly institution. If you’re transitioning out of the military, you’ll appreciate having advisors who understand military education benefits and can help make the transition as smooth as possible.

An interesting fact about Drexel is that it was one of the first universities in the country to embrace cooperative education on such a large scale. That philosophy continues today and gives graduates a competitive advantage when entering the workforce because many already have professional experience before earning their degree.

#18: Ramapo College of New Jersey

Ramapo College may not be as well known nationally as some of the larger universities on this list, but don’t let that fool you. This public college has quietly built an impressive nursing program that focuses on producing competent, compassionate nurses through small class sizes and extensive hands-on learning opportunities. Located about an hour outside New York City, Ramapo offers students access to outstanding clinical experiences while maintaining the feel of a smaller campus.

One of the highlights of the nursing program is the Adler Center for Nursing Excellence. This state-of-the-art simulation facility allows students to practice patient care using advanced simulation technology before ever treating real patients. These realistic training scenarios help students build confidence, improve critical thinking, and learn from mistakes in a safe environment.

The nursing program has grown steadily over the years and now offers both undergraduate and graduate education. Faculty members emphasize leadership, communication, evidence-based practice, and patient-centered care—skills that translate well from military service to civilian healthcare.

Veterans often appreciate Ramapo’s smaller class sizes and personalized attention. The college offers Veteran support services, assistance with military education benefits, and a welcoming campus environment that makes it easier to transition into college after military service. If you’re looking for a smaller school with modern facilities and a strong reputation for hands-on education, Ramapo College is definitely worth considering.

#17: Fitchburg State University (Massachusetts)

Fitchburg State University has been educating students since 1894, making it one of Massachusetts’ oldest public universities. Over the years, it has developed an excellent reputation for preparing healthcare professionals while remaining affordable and accessible. Its nursing program is particularly attractive to military students because of its flexibility and multiple pathways to earning a nursing degree.

One feature that really caught my attention is Fitchburg’s Military LPN-to-BSN pathway. Programs like this recognize that military medics and healthcare specialists often enter college with valuable medical knowledge and experience. Rather than forcing students to start completely from scratch, the university provides a pathway that helps qualified military personnel build on the skills they’ve already developed while serving their country.

Fitchburg also offers an online RN-to-BSN program, making it a great option for National Guard members, Reservists, active-duty personnel nearing separation, or Veterans who are balancing work and family responsibilities. The flexibility of online education allows students to continue advancing their careers without putting their entire lives on hold.

Another interesting fact is that Fitchburg State has long been recognized for serving working adults and nontraditional students. Many military students don’t fit the traditional 18-year-old college freshman profile, so attending a university that understands adult learners can make a big difference. If flexibility is high on your priority list, Fitchburg State deserves a closer look.

#16: Chatham University (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania)

Chatham University may have started as a women’s college in 1869, but today it has evolved into a highly respected coeducational university known for excellence in healthcare education. Located in Pittsburgh, Chatham benefits from being surrounded by one of the nation’s leading healthcare communities, including world-renowned hospitals and medical research facilities.

One of Chatham’s biggest strengths is its partnership with UPMC (University of Pittsburgh Medical Center), one of the largest healthcare systems in the country. Nursing students gain access to exceptional clinical rotations, allowing them to work alongside experienced healthcare professionals in a variety of specialties. Those experiences often lead to employment opportunities after graduation.

Chatham offers nursing degrees ranging from bachelor’s programs all the way through Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degrees, making it an excellent choice whether you’re just beginning your nursing career or planning to continue your education later. The school also embraces modern learning through online and hybrid programs, giving military students additional flexibility.

Veterans and military family members will find a welcoming environment supported by dedicated Veteran services and a university culture that values leadership, service, and lifelong learning. I also like that Chatham emphasizes sustainability, innovation, and community engagement—qualities that fit well with many of the leadership values military members already possess. If you’re looking for a smaller university with excellent hospital partnerships and outstanding clinical training, Chatham University should definitely be on your radar.

#15: Westfield State University (Westfield, Massachusetts)

Westfield State University may not be one of the biggest names in nursing education, but don’t let its size fool you. Founded in 1839, it’s the oldest public university in Massachusetts and has built an outstanding reputation for preparing healthcare professionals through small class sizes and personalized instruction. If you prefer learning in a close-knit environment where professors actually know your name, Westfield is definitely worth considering.

One thing that really stands out about Westfield’s nursing program is its emphasis on hands-on learning. Students spend plenty of time in modern simulation laboratories before entering clinical rotations, allowing them to practice everything from routine patient care to emergency situations in a controlled environment. The program also includes a senior capstone preceptorship where students work one-on-one with experienced registered nurses, giving them valuable real-world experience before graduation.

I also like that Westfield places a strong emphasis on caring for older adults. With America’s aging population, geriatric healthcare is becoming one of the fastest-growing areas of nursing. Graduates leave the program with experience treating patients across the lifespan, making them well prepared for today’s healthcare environment.

Military students and Veterans often appreciate the smaller campus atmosphere and personalized support available at Westfield. The university offers Veteran services, academic advising, and assistance with VA education benefits. For someone transitioning out of the military, that kind of individual attention can make the adjustment to college much easier.

#14: University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB)

The University of Alabama at Birmingham, commonly known as UAB, has one of the most respected nursing schools in the United States. Established in 1969, UAB quickly developed into one of the country’s leading academic medical centers. Today, its School of Nursing consistently ranks among the top nursing programs in America and has earned national recognition for both education and research.

One of the biggest advantages of attending UAB is access to its world-class medical campus. UAB Hospital is one of the largest academic medical centers in the Southeast and treats patients from across the country. Nursing students gain clinical experience in virtually every specialty imaginable, from trauma and emergency medicine to oncology, pediatrics, critical care, and transplant medicine. Few nursing schools can match the variety of hands-on experiences available here.

Another impressive fact is UAB’s commitment to nursing research. Faculty members receive millions of dollars in federal research grants each year, studying ways to improve patient care, reduce healthcare disparities, and advance the nursing profession. Students benefit by learning from professors who are actively shaping the future of healthcare instead of simply teaching from textbooks.

For military students, UAB offers excellent Veteran support services, participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program, and has earned recognition as a military-friendly university. If you’re looking for a nationally recognized nursing degree with exceptional clinical opportunities and strong Veteran support, UAB should absolutely be on your short list.

#13: Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Nursing (Lubbock, Texas)

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center has become one of the premier nursing schools in Texas. Since opening its School of Nursing in 1979, the university has expanded across multiple campuses while maintaining a reputation for producing highly skilled, compassionate nurses. One of its primary missions is improving healthcare access in rural and underserved communities throughout Texas, something I really admire.

What makes Texas Tech especially attractive for military students is its Veteran-to-BSN pathway. This program recognizes the valuable medical experience many Veterans already possess and allows eligible students to receive academic credit for military healthcare training. That’s a tremendous benefit because it can shorten the amount of time needed to earn a nursing degree while recognizing the skills you’ve already developed during your military service.

The school also offers accelerated BSN programs, RN-to-BSN options, master’s degrees, and doctoral programs, giving students multiple pathways depending on where they are in their careers. Whether you’re leaving active duty, serving in the National Guard or Reserve, or already working as a nurse, there’s likely a program that fits your situation.

Texas Tech has long been recognized for supporting military families throughout West Texas. Combined with affordable tuition, modern simulation laboratories, and strong NCLEX pass rates, it’s easy to see why this school continues to attract Veterans looking for a successful transition into civilian healthcare careers.

#12: Chamberlain University

Unlike many schools on this list, Chamberlain University focuses almost exclusively on healthcare education. Its roots date back to 1889 when it began as Deaconess College of Nursing in St. Louis. Over the years, it has grown into one of the largest private nursing schools in the country, with campuses across the United States and a variety of online learning options.

One of Chamberlain’s biggest strengths is flexibility. Many military students aren’t traditional full-time college students. They’re balancing work, family responsibilities, drill weekends, deployments, or transitioning from active duty. Chamberlain recognizes those challenges and offers multiple scheduling options that make it easier to earn a nursing degree without putting the rest of your life on hold.

The university has developed a Veteran-to-BSN pathway specifically for former service members. Eligible Veterans may receive academic credit for military healthcare training, and Chamberlain also waives application fees for many military applicants. That’s a nice perk that demonstrates the university’s commitment to serving those who have served our country.

Another thing I like about Chamberlain is its nationwide footprint. Since the university operates campuses across multiple states, military families who relocate because of PCS orders often have more flexibility to continue their education without starting over somewhere else. For military spouses in particular, that’s a significant advantage.

#11: Shenandoah University (Winchester, Virginia)

Shenandoah University has a long and interesting history dating back to 1875. Although it’s a relatively small private university, it has developed an excellent reputation for healthcare education, particularly in nursing, pharmacy, physical therapy, and physician assistant programs. Its location in Virginia also places students within driving distance of numerous military installations and major healthcare systems.

One feature that immediately caught my attention is Shenandoah’s Veteran-to-BSN pathway. Like several schools on this list, the university recognizes that military medics, corpsmen, and healthcare specialists bring valuable experience with them when they leave the service. Instead of ignoring that background, Shenandoah helps qualified Veterans build upon it while working toward a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Students also benefit from extensive clinical partnerships with hospitals and healthcare providers throughout the region. Those partnerships provide valuable hands-on training and often open doors to future employment after graduation. The university prides itself on keeping class sizes relatively small, allowing students to develop strong relationships with faculty members and receive more individualized instruction.

Shenandoah has consistently demonstrated its commitment to supporting Veterans through dedicated military student services, financial aid counseling, and assistance navigating VA education benefits. If you’re looking for a smaller university with personalized attention, strong clinical experiences, and programs specifically designed for Veterans, Shenandoah University deserves a serious look.

#10: Pennsylvania State University (University Park, Pennsylvania)

When it comes to reputation, it’s hard to beat Penn State. Founded in 1855, Pennsylvania State University has grown into one of the largest and most respected public universities in the United States. Its College of Nursing has been educating nurses for decades and has built an outstanding reputation for academic excellence, clinical preparation, and nursing research. If you’re looking for a school whose name carries weight with employers, Penn State is certainly worth considering.

One of the biggest strengths of Penn State’s nursing program is its size and flexibility. The university offers nursing degrees at multiple campuses throughout Pennsylvania, giving students more options than many other schools on this list. Whether you’re pursuing your first nursing degree or planning to continue into graduate education, Penn State offers bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and certificate programs to fit almost every career goal.

I also like Penn State’s emphasis on leadership and evidence-based practice. Students aren’t simply taught how to pass the NCLEX—they’re trained to become leaders who can improve patient care, supervise healthcare teams, and solve complex medical problems. The university also maintains partnerships with outstanding hospitals and healthcare organizations throughout Pennsylvania, giving students excellent clinical experiences before graduation.

Military students will find plenty of support at Penn State. The university has a dedicated Veterans Programs Office, participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program, and consistently earns recognition as one of America’s military-friendly universities. With thousands of Veterans attending Penn State each year, you’ll find a strong military community that understands the unique challenges of transitioning from military service to college life.

#9: University of Colorado College of Nursing (Aurora, Colorado)

The University of Colorado College of Nursing has been educating nurses for more than 125 years and has become one of the premier nursing schools in the western United States. Located on the Anschutz Medical Campus near Denver, students learn alongside future physicians, pharmacists, dentists, and other healthcare professionals in one of the nation’s leading academic medical centers.

One of the things that impressed me most about this program is its commitment to innovation. The College of Nursing has consistently ranked among the top public nursing schools in America and is nationally recognized for research, graduate education, and advanced practice nursing. Faculty members conduct groundbreaking research in areas such as rural healthcare, chronic disease management, veterans’ health, and improving patient outcomes.

Students also benefit from exceptional clinical opportunities throughout the Denver metropolitan area. Because the university is connected to the Anschutz Medical Campus, nursing students train at nationally recognized hospitals, trauma centers, Veterans Affairs medical facilities, and specialty clinics. Those experiences prepare graduates to step into virtually any nursing specialty after earning their degree.

Veterans and active-duty service members are well supported through the university’s Veteran and Military Student Services office. The school accepts military education benefits, offers guidance with VA programs, and has developed a welcoming environment for those transitioning from military service into healthcare careers. If research, innovation, and outstanding clinical training are important to you, the University of Colorado deserves serious consideration.

#8: University of Florida (Gainesville, Florida)

The University of Florida is consistently ranked among the top public universities in the country, and its College of Nursing has earned an outstanding reputation for producing highly qualified nurses and healthcare leaders. Established in 1956, the College of Nursing has educated thousands of nurses who now serve patients across the United States and around the world.

One thing that makes the University of Florida stand out is its strong emphasis on research and evidence-based practice. Faculty members are actively involved in studying ways to improve patient care, reduce healthcare costs, and address some of the biggest healthcare challenges facing our country today. Students benefit from learning directly from nationally recognized experts who are advancing the nursing profession.

The school also offers exceptional clinical opportunities through UF Health, one of Florida’s leading academic health systems. Students gain experience in hospitals, outpatient clinics, specialty centers, and community healthcare settings, allowing them to develop confidence before entering the workforce. Another interesting fact is that UF graduates consistently perform well on the NCLEX licensing exam, a reflection of the program’s academic quality.

Military students are also well taken care of. The University of Florida participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program, has an active Office of Veteran Services, and provides numerous resources to help Veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard members, Reservists, and military spouses succeed. If you want one of the top nursing degrees in the Southeast, the University of Florida is an outstanding choice.

#7: University of Arizona College of Nursing (Tucson, Arizona)

The University of Arizona has been educating healthcare professionals since the late 1800s, and its College of Nursing has become one of the nation’s leading nursing schools. Known for combining cutting-edge research with exceptional patient care, the college prepares nurses to work in hospitals, rural clinics, military healthcare systems, and advanced practice settings throughout the country.

One of the coolest things about the University of Arizona is its long history of innovation in simulation-based education. Students spend countless hours practicing patient care in realistic simulation labs before ever treating actual patients. These advanced training environments allow students to build confidence, improve critical thinking, and learn from mistakes in a safe setting before entering clinical rotations.

The College of Nursing also offers an impressive variety of degree programs, including traditional BSN programs, master’s degrees, Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs, and PhD opportunities. Faculty members conduct nationally recognized research in areas including precision health, chronic disease prevention, rural healthcare, and improving health outcomes among underserved populations.

Veterans benefit from strong military support services, flexible educational pathways, and advisors who understand military education benefits. Arizona has a large Veteran population, and the university has worked hard to create a campus environment that welcomes former service members and helps them successfully transition into civilian careers.

#6: University of Maine (Orono, Maine)

As someone who grew up in Maine, I couldn’t leave the University of Maine off this list. Founded in 1865 as the state’s land-grant university, UMaine has served generations of students while maintaining a strong commitment to public service, research, and community engagement. Although it may not receive the same national attention as some of the larger universities, its nursing program has earned an excellent reputation throughout New England.

One thing I really like about the University of Maine is its focus on serving rural communities. Much of Maine is rural, and healthcare providers often work with patients who live hours away from major medical centers. Because of that, nursing students receive excellent preparation for working independently, solving problems, and caring for patients across a wide range of healthcare settings. Those skills translate well no matter where graduates eventually practice.

Another interesting fact is that UMaine places a strong emphasis on leadership, public health, and community involvement. Students don’t just learn clinical skills—they also learn how to improve healthcare systems, educate patients, and advocate for healthier communities. Clinical experiences take place throughout Maine in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health organizations, giving students a well-rounded education.

The University of Maine has long supported Veterans and military families through dedicated Veteran services, military education benefits, and personalized advising. Its affordable tuition, smaller class sizes, and supportive campus atmosphere make it an excellent option for military students looking to earn a high-quality nursing degree without attending a massive university. For Veterans who appreciate a close-knit community and a slower pace of life, UMaine is definitely worth a closer look.

#5: Florida State University (Tallahassee, Florida)

Florida State University has earned a reputation as one of the premier public universities in the Southeast, and its College of Nursing is no exception. Established in 1950, the nursing program has educated thousands of nurses who now work in hospitals, clinics, military treatment facilities, and healthcare organizations across the country. FSU combines the resources of a large research university with a student-centered approach that prepares graduates for successful nursing careers.

One thing I really like about Florida State is its emphasis on hands-on learning. Nursing students spend countless hours in modern simulation labs before entering clinical rotations, giving them the opportunity to build confidence and sharpen their clinical decision-making skills. Once they begin working with patients, they complete clinical experiences at leading hospitals and healthcare facilities throughout the Tallahassee area. By the time they graduate, they’ve already treated patients in a variety of real-world healthcare settings.

Another interesting fact is that FSU has consistently maintained excellent NCLEX pass rates, which says a lot about the quality of its nursing education. The college also places a strong emphasis on leadership, community service, and evidence-based practice, ensuring graduates are prepared not only to care for patients but also to improve healthcare systems throughout their careers.

Military students will also find plenty of support at Florida State. The university participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program, has a dedicated Veterans Center, and offers resources specifically designed to help Veterans, active-duty service members, Reservists, National Guard members, and military spouses succeed. Combined with Florida’s Veteran-friendly environment, FSU is an excellent choice for anyone looking to pursue a nursing career after military service.

#4: University of Kentucky College of Nursing (Lexington, Kentucky)

The University of Kentucky has been educating healthcare professionals for more than a century and has developed one of the nation’s premier nursing schools. Founded in 1956, the College of Nursing consistently ranks among the top nursing programs in the country and has built an outstanding reputation for clinical excellence, research, and preparing future healthcare leaders.

One thing that sets Kentucky apart is its commitment to serving rural America. Kentucky has many medically underserved communities, and the College of Nursing has developed innovative programs to improve healthcare access throughout the state. Students gain valuable experience working with diverse patient populations while learning how to deliver high-quality care in a variety of healthcare settings. Those experiences prepare graduates to succeed whether they choose to work in a large metropolitan hospital or a small rural clinic.

The university is also nationally recognized for its research. Faculty members conduct groundbreaking studies in areas such as chronic disease management, aging, cancer care, and health disparities. Students benefit from learning alongside researchers who are helping shape the future of nursing while receiving outstanding clinical instruction through UK HealthCare, one of the region’s top academic medical centers.

Military students are especially well served at the University of Kentucky. The university has earned repeated recognition as a military-friendly school and offers dedicated Veteran support services, flexible degree pathways, and assistance with VA education benefits. For Veterans looking for a nationally respected nursing degree with outstanding clinical opportunities, the University of Kentucky is a fantastic option.

#3: San Diego State University (San Diego, California)

If you’re looking for a nursing school located in one of the largest military communities in America, San Diego State University deserves a close look. San Diego has long been home to major Navy and Marine Corps installations, so it’s no surprise that SDSU has developed strong programs and support services for military students and Veterans. The university’s School of Nursing has built an excellent reputation for producing highly qualified nurses while maintaining close relationships with healthcare providers throughout Southern California.

One of the things I find most impressive about SDSU is its exceptional clinical opportunities. Students complete rotations at some of California’s leading hospitals, trauma centers, and specialty healthcare facilities. Because San Diego is such a large medical hub, students gain experience working with incredibly diverse patient populations and a wide variety of medical conditions before graduation.

The School of Nursing has also earned recognition for its academic quality and Veteran friendliness. It consistently ranks among the nation’s top nursing programs and has been recognized as one of the best colleges for Veterans. Faculty members emphasize critical thinking, leadership, patient safety, and evidence-based practice, helping graduates enter the workforce fully prepared for today’s rapidly changing healthcare environment.

Military students benefit from SDSU’s dedicated Veterans Center, GI Bill assistance, academic advising, and a large community of fellow Veterans. For service members separating from nearby military installations or military families already living in Southern California, San Diego State University offers an outstanding combination of academic excellence, Veteran support, and exceptional clinical training.

#2: George Washington University School of Nursing (Washington, D.C.)

George Washington University offers something very few nursing schools can match—an education in the heart of our nation’s capital. Founded in 1821, GW has become one of America’s most respected private universities, and its School of Nursing has earned national recognition for preparing nurses to become clinicians, educators, researchers, and healthcare leaders. If you’re interested in shaping healthcare policy in addition to caring for patients, there may not be a better location.

One of the coolest things about GW is its proximity to some of the nation’s most important healthcare organizations. Students have opportunities to complete clinical experiences at nationally recognized hospitals while also being close to agencies such as the Department of Veterans Affairs, the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Department of Health and Human Services, and numerous healthcare advocacy organizations. That’s a unique advantage few nursing schools can offer.

George Washington also places a strong emphasis on leadership development. The curriculum encourages students to think beyond bedside nursing and prepares them to become administrators, policymakers, educators, and advanced practice nurses. The university has long been recognized for producing graduates who influence healthcare on both the local and national level.

Veterans are also well supported through GW’s Office of Military and Veteran Services. The university offers Veteran-specific resources, assistance with military education benefits, and flexible programs that recognize the leadership experience many Veterans already possess. If your long-term goal includes healthcare leadership, education, or policy, George Washington University is definitely worth considering.

#1: University of South Florida (Tampa, Florida)

Taking the top spot on my list is the University of South Florida. Located in Tampa, USF has quietly built one of the finest nursing schools in the country while earning a reputation for being exceptionally supportive of military students and Veterans. Founded in 1956, the College of Nursing has grown into a nationally recognized program that consistently produces highly qualified nurses ready to meet the demands of today’s healthcare system.

One of the biggest reasons I ranked USF number one is its combination of academic excellence, flexibility, and military support. The College of Nursing offers traditional BSN programs, accelerated pathways, RN-to-BSN options, master’s degrees, doctoral programs, and graduate certificates, giving students multiple ways to achieve their career goals. Whether you’re transitioning directly from active duty or continuing your education after serving in the National Guard or Reserve, USF offers a pathway that can fit your needs.

USF students also benefit from outstanding clinical experiences throughout the Tampa Bay area, one of Florida’s largest healthcare markets. The university partners with leading hospitals, Veterans Affairs medical centers, specialty clinics, and healthcare systems, allowing students to gain experience across virtually every nursing specialty. Another interesting fact is that USF is recognized as one of the nation’s leading research universities, with faculty members conducting cutting-edge research that improves patient care throughout the world.

Perhaps most importantly, USF has made a genuine commitment to serving the military community. The university offers dedicated Veteran Success resources, participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program, assists students with VA education benefits, and has built a campus culture that recognizes the leadership, discipline, and work ethic Veterans bring to the classroom. When you combine excellent academics, outstanding clinical training, strong research opportunities, flexible degree programs, and exceptional military support, it’s easy to see why I ranked the University of South Florida as my number one military-friendly nursing school. If I were a Veteran looking to become a nurse today, this school would be at the very top of my list.

Conclusion

I hope this list of the top 20 military friendly nursing schools gives you a good starting point as you begin your search. There are many outstanding nursing programs across the country, and every school on this list has something unique to offer military students. Some stand out because of their exceptional Veteran support services. Others are known for world-class research, outstanding clinical partnerships, flexible degree options, or accelerated pathways that recognize military experience.

The good news is that there has never been a better time to become a nurse. The demand for qualified nurses continues to grow, salaries are competitive, and there are opportunities to work in virtually every specialty and location imaginable. Military service also provides many skills that translate exceptionally well into nursing. Leadership, teamwork, discipline, communication, adaptability, and the ability to perform under pressure are qualities every healthcare employer values.

My biggest piece of advice is to do your homework before making a decision. Compare several schools, speak with admissions counselors, talk to current nursing students, and make sure you fully understand your education benefits. Don’t be afraid to ask tough questions about graduation rates, NCLEX pass rates, clinical opportunities, Veteran resources, and job placement. The more research you do today, the more likely you’ll find a program that’s the right fit for your goals.

Most importantly, don’t sell yourself short. If you’ve served in the military, you’ve already proven that you can handle difficult challenges, work as part of a team, and succeed under pressure. Those same qualities will serve you well in nursing school and throughout your healthcare career.

I wish you the very best as you begin this exciting journey. Thank you for your service, and good luck finding the nursing program that’s right for you.

Suggested Toolkit for Future Nursing Students

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3M Littmann Classic III Stethoscope – If you’re only going to buy one piece of nursing equipment, make it this. It’s the most recommended stethoscope for nursing students and will likely last throughout your career.
Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-RN Examination – Considered by many to be the gold standard for NCLEX preparation, this book is packed with review material, practice questions, and test-taking strategies.
Nursing Pocket Drug Guide – You’ll spend a lot of time learning medications. A reliable pocket drug guide makes it easy to quickly look up dosages, side effects, contraindications, and nursing considerations.
WhiteCoat Clipboard Nursing Edition – This foldable clipboard fits inside your scrub pocket and includes quick-reference charts for lab values, vital signs, and other clinical information you’ll use regularly.
Compression Socks for Nurses – Clinical rotations often mean spending 8 to 12 hours on your feet. A quality pair of compression socks can reduce leg fatigue and make long shifts much more comfortable.
Nursing Student Planner – Nursing school can get hectic in a hurry. A dedicated planner helps you stay organized by tracking classes, clinical rotations, exams, assignments, and study schedules.

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