Best Nursing Programs in Delaware (2026)
MyNursingSchools lists 171 accredited nursing programs across 40 schools in Delaware. The fastest listed completion time is 12 months. Listed tuition ranges from $13,500 to $108,000. Programs with published NCLEX data average 91.0% first-time pass rate. RNs in Delaware earn $78,200/year on average (BLS).
171
Programs
40
Schools
12 mo
Fastest Listed
$13,500
Lowest Tuition
91.0%
Avg NCLEX (3)
97
Online / Hybrid
$78K
Avg RN Salary
Salary source: BLS OEWS, May 2023 · Program stats from MyNursingSchools directory
Delaware nursing programs at a glance
- 171 accredited nursing programs across 40 schools in Delaware (0 LPN, 2 ADN, 9 BSN, 1 bridge).
- Fastest listed program: 12 months (RN to BSN at Wilmington University).
- Lowest listed tuition: $13,500 (MSN — Nursing Administration at National University).
- Highest published NCLEX pass rate in our listing: 91.79% (Western Governors University).
- 97 online or hybrid programs serve Delaware students (3 on-campus).
- Average RN salary in Delaware: $78,200 (BLS) · 5.5% projected job growth through 2032.
Delaware nursing program market snapshot
| Programs in directory | 171 total · 100 on this page |
|---|---|
| Schools | 40 accredited institutions |
| Degree mix (listed) | 0 LPN · 2 ADN · 9 BSN · 1 bridge · 64 MSN · 24 DNP |
| Fastest listed program | RN to BSN at Wilmington University — 12 months |
| Tuition range (listed) | $13,500 – $108,000 |
| NCLEX pass rates | 91.0% average across 3 programs with published data · high: 91.79% (Western Governors University) |
| Delivery formats | 89 online · 8 hybrid · 3 on-campus |
| RN salary & outlook | $78,200/yr (BLS) · 5.5% projected growth through 2032 |
All Nursing Programs in Delaware
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Showing 100 of 171 programs from our directory for Delaware.
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How to choose a nursing program in Delaware
Delaware is one of the larger nursing education markets we track (171 programs listed) — compare NCLEX pass rates and clinical partnerships, not just tuition. RN wages in Delaware ($78,200/year, BLS) sit below the national average, so minimizing tuition and time-to-start (waitlists) matters more than brand-name private programs. RN employment in Delaware is projected to grow 5.5% through 2032 (BLS). Choosing a nursing program in Delaware means weighing completion time, total tuition, NCLEX outcomes, and how quickly you can start earning an RN salary in a local labor market. Among programs in our Delaware directory, the fastest listed completion time is 12 months. We track 171 accredited nursing programs in Delaware — including 11 entry-level RN, 1 bridge/RN-to-BSN pathways. Delaware is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state; multistate practice may be available once Delaware is your primary residence — especially relevant if you live near Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania.
Key takeaways
- Screen Delaware programs by recent NCLEX first-attempt pass rate before tuition — licensing failure costs more time than a longer program.
- Verify ACEN or CCNE accreditation (or state board approval) before any deposit; unaccredited programs may block NCLEX eligibility in Delaware.
- Delaware is an NLC compact state — declare primary residence correctly if you need multistate practice near a border.
- Delaware lists 11 entry-level RN programs; community college ADN plus employer-funded RN-to-BSN is often the lowest total-cost path.
- 1 RN-to-BSN or bridge programs in Delaware suit nurses already licensed who want BSN completion while working.
- Listed tuition in Delaware spans $13,500 to $108,000 — public ADN programs anchor the low end; private accelerated programs cluster at the top.
Sponsored · Disclosure
- Compact licensure
- Yes — Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) participant.
- CE at renewal
- 30 hours per 2 years cycle.
- Average RN salary
- $78,200 (BLS, May 2023) · how we source this
- Lowest listed tuition
- From $13,500 (MSN — Nursing Administration at National University).
Explore Nursing in Delaware
Programs by Degree Type
64
MSN Programs
24
DNP Programs
9
BSN Programs
2
ADN Programs
1
RN-BSN Programs
Nursing Schools in Delaware
40 accredited institutions offering nursing programs.
| School | Programs | Degree Types | NCLEX Rate | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware State University | 3 | BSNMSN | N/A | View |
| University of Delaware | 4 | BSNDNPMSN | N/A | View |
| Wilmington University | 2 | RN-BSNDNP | N/A | View |
| Excelsior University | 2 | ADNBSN | N/A | View |
| Delaware Technical Community College | 1 | ADN | 90.0% | View |
| Western Governors University | 3 | BSNMSN | 91.8% | View |
| Aspen University | 2 | BSNMSN | N/A | View |
| National University | 4 | BSNMSN | N/A | View |
| Joyce University of Nursing and Health Sciences | 2 | BSNMSN | 91.2% | View |
| American Public University System | 3 | BSNMSN | N/A | View |
| Southern New Hampshire University | 1 | BSN | N/A | View |
| Simmons University | 3 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| University of Phoenix | 2 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| Grand Canyon University | 4 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| Chamberlain University | 4 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| Capella University | 2 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| Sacred Heart University | 3 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| Gonzaga University | 3 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| Michigan State University | 3 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| Walden University | 3 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
How many nursing programs are available in Delaware?
There are 171 accredited nursing programs available in Delaware across 40 schools — including 0 LPN, 2 ADN, 9 BSN, 64 MSN, and 24 DNP pathways. Programs are offered online, on-campus, and hybrid.
How much does nursing school cost in Delaware?
Nursing program tuition in Delaware starts as low as $13,500 and reaches $108,000 among programs in our directory. Community college ADN programs are typically the most affordable; private BSN programs cost more. Financial aid, scholarships, and employer tuition reimbursement can reduce out-of-pocket costs.
How long does nursing school take in Delaware?
The fastest nursing programs listed in Delaware can be completed in 12 months (RN to BSN at Wilmington University). LPN certificates typically take 9–12 months, ADN programs 18–24 months, and traditional BSN programs 36–48 months. Accelerated BSN programs for career changers can finish in 12–18 months.
What is the average nurse salary in Delaware?
Registered nurses in Delaware earn an average of $78,200 per year ($38/hour) according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data. RN employment in Delaware is projected to grow 5.5% through 2032.
Can I complete nursing school online in Delaware?
Yes. There are 97 online and hybrid nursing programs (89 fully online, 8 hybrid) available to Delaware residents in our directory. Online programs deliver lectures digitally, but all nursing programs require in-person clinical hours. Many arrange clinical placements within Delaware.
Which nursing program has the highest NCLEX pass rate in Delaware?
Among programs with published NCLEX data in our directory, Western Governors University leads at 91.79% first-time pass rate (Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Pre-Licensure)). Average across 3 programs with data: 91.0%. Pass rates vary by cohort — always confirm the school's three-year average before enrolling.
What are the nursing license requirements in Delaware?
To practice nursing in Delaware, you must pass the NCLEX exam and apply to the Delaware Board of Nursing. Delaware is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state, which means your license allows you to practice in other compact states. License renewal is every 2 years with 30 continuing education hours required.
Is there a nursing shortage in Delaware?
Yes. Like most states, Delaware is experiencing a nursing shortage that is projected to worsen through 2030. The 5.5% job growth projected through 2032 reflects strong demand for qualified nurses, particularly in rural areas and specialized care units. This means excellent job security and competitive compensation for nursing graduates.
What GPA do I need for nursing school in Delaware?
GPA requirements for nursing programs in Delaware vary by school and degree level. Most BSN programs require a minimum GPA of 2.5–3.0 for admission, while competitive programs may require 3.2 or higher. ADN and LPN programs at community colleges often have lower GPA thresholds. Some programs consider your overall GPA while others focus on prerequisite science courses.
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