Each year more and more people become interested and decide to enter the field of nursing. Today, nursing is one of the few careers that are still in great demand, and during this economic recession, the numbers of new nursing students are astounding. For those of you that are considering nursing schools, we will discuss the top nursing programs in colleges and universities for 2009. Nursing programs are flexible and there are great online programs that are also important to consider.



The University of Washington's nursing program is one of the top nursing degrees in the country. Located in Seattle, Washington, the University of Washington provides nursing students with a well rounded education, plus hands-on training through the university's medical center. This excellent institution has a history of well funded nurse training programs that further expand one's education level.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is also one of the top nursing programs in the county. Located in beautiful Chapel Hill, North Carolina, this university's BSN program is amongst the most popular programs that the school offers. UNC also offers a nursing master's program, registered nurse specific options, doctoral programs, and fellowships. UNC has consistently been ranked as one of the best schools in the country and proudly offers distance learning in their nursing department.

Another excellent nursing program can be found at John Hopkins University. In the heart of Baltimore, Maryland, John Hopkins has a program that consists on degrees ranging from a BSN to doctoral degrees in Nursing Philosophy and Nursing Practice. John Hopkins also offers post doctoral degrees and continuing education courses.

Located in Charlottesville, Virginia, the University of Virginia is another nursing school that is among the best in the nation. The University of Virginia has a robust nursing school with many of the degree programs mentioned. This school also offers direct entry MSN programs for individuals with a bachelor's degree in another disciple, as well as joint degree programs.

The college of Nursing at the University of Iowa is our final traditional Nursing program on the list of excellence. Similar to the schools mentioned above, the University of Iowa has a well rounded list of degree programs. However, this nursing school also boasts certificate and dual degree programs. Consistently being ranked among the top nursing schools in the county, the University of Iowa also provides great resources for all nursing students.

Unfortunately, not all of us live in proximity to a great nursing school and those who do may find attending traditional programs to be a challenge when working in a job and caring for a family. For those individuals, there is a list of the top five online nursing schools, as well.

The first top nursing school on our list is the online program at Indiana State University. This program offers many programs including ones for a licensed practicing nurse as well as a BSN program and registered nurse programs. Indiana State University also offers a master's degree program that includes a Family Nurse Practitioner focus. The Indiana State program is accredited with a rolling enrollment, and they are one of the few programs offered worldwide.

Another top nursing program on our list is the online nursing program at the University of Phoenix. Though this program does offer a great BS in nursing program, it gets high marks for their variety in Master's degrees programs, offering master's degrees in nursing, health administration, and a few others. All of the universities programs are accredited and they have rolling enrollment enabling you to begin whenever you are ready and able.

Grand Canyon University is the next online program on the list, and they also have an impressive list of degree programs. Their curriculum proudly offers a master's degree in Nursing Education as well as Nursing Leadership in Health Care Systems. All of their programs are accredited and they offer enrollment each semester.

Kaplan University is third on the list and they offer a BSN program for registered nurses and a few nursing specialty certifications. Kaplan is probably the most well known name on the online list as they are one of the few programs available worldwide. Their programs are accredited and they operate on a quarterly enrollment schedule.

The South University is the final online program on our list and they offer a registered nurse to BSN degree and a MSN degree as well. Although, this program does not currently offer the variety of degree as some of the others, they do offer financial aid and scholarships. This program is available worldwide and accredited with an enrollment period that occurs eight terms each year.

There are a great nursing programs all over the country, but be sure to do your home work and choose the right nursing school for you, whether it is at a university or through an online program.