Best Nursing Programs in Delaware (2026)
MyNursingSchools lists 171 accredited nursing programs across 41 schools in Delaware. The fastest listed completion time is 18 months. Listed tuition ranges from $13,500 to $108,000. RNs in Delaware earn $95,450/year on average (BLS).
171
Programs
41
Schools
18 mo
Fastest Listed
$13,500
Lowest Tuition
97
Online / Hybrid
$95K
Avg RN Salary
Salary source: BLS OEWS, May 2024 · Program stats from MyNursingSchools directory
Delaware nursing programs at a glance
- 171 accredited nursing programs across 41 schools in Delaware (0 LPN, 2 ADN, 9 BSN).
- Fastest listed program: 18 months (MSN — Health Systems Administration at Arizona State University).
- Lowest listed tuition: $13,500 (MSN — Nursing Administration at National University).
- 97 online or hybrid programs serve Delaware students (3 on-campus).
- Average RN salary in Delaware: $95,450 (BLS) · 5.5% projected job growth through 2032.
- Delaware is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state.
Delaware nursing program market snapshot
| Programs in directory | 171 total · 100 on this page |
|---|---|
| Schools | 41 accredited institutions |
| Degree mix (listed) | 0 LPN · 2 ADN · 9 BSN · 65 MSN · 24 DNP |
| Fastest listed program | MSN — Health Systems Administration at Arizona State University — 18 months |
| Tuition range (listed) | $13,500 – $108,000 |
| Delivery formats | 89 online · 8 hybrid · 3 on-campus |
| RN salary & outlook | $95,450/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. Registered nurses in Delaware earn $95,450/year on average (BLS), close to the national benchmark. 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 18 months. We track 171 accredited nursing programs in Delaware — including 11 entry-level RN 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.
- Listed tuition in Delaware spans $13,500 to $108,000 — public ADN programs anchor the low end; private accelerated programs cluster at the top.
- 97 online or hybrid programs serve Delaware students — flexible for working adults, but all nursing credentials still require on-site clinical hours.
Sponsored · Disclosure
- Compact licensure
- Yes — Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) participant.
- CE at renewal
- 30 hours per 2 years cycle.
- Average RN salary
- $95,450 (BLS, May 2024) · how we source this
- Lowest listed tuition
- From $13,500 (MSN — Nursing Administration at National University).
Explore Nursing in Delaware
Programs by Degree Type
65
MSN Programs
24
DNP Programs
9
BSN Programs
2
ADN Programs
Nursing Schools in Delaware
4 accredited institutions with a campus in Delaware.
| School | Programs | Degree Types | NCLEX Rate | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware Technical Community College | 1 | ADN | N/A | View |
| Delaware State University | 3 | BSNMSN | N/A | View |
| University of Delaware | 4 | BSNDNPMSN | N/A | View |
| Wilmington University | 1 | DNP | N/A | View |
Online Nursing Programs Available to Delaware Residents
37 accredited schools based outside Delaware that enroll Delaware residents online. Confirm clinical-placement arrangements and Delaware Board of Nursing approval before enrolling in any pre-licensure RN program.
| School | Programs | Degree Types | NCLEX Rate | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Excelsior University | 2 | ADNBSN | N/A | View |
| Western Governors University | 3 | BSNMSN | N/A | View |
| National University | 4 | BSNMSN | N/A | View |
| Aspen University | 2 | BSNMSN | N/A | View |
| Joyce University of Nursing and Health Sciences | 2 | BSNMSN | N/A | View |
| American Public University System | 3 | BSNMSN | N/A | View |
| Southern New Hampshire University | 1 | BSN | N/A | View |
| University of Texas at Arlington | 4 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| University of Phoenix | 3 | 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 | 2 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| Gonzaga University | 3 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| Michigan State University | 2 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| Walden University | 3 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| George Washington University | 3 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| Liberty University | 3 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| University of Pennsylvania | 3 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| University of Cincinnati | 4 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
How many nursing programs are available in Delaware?
There are 171 accredited nursing programs available in Delaware across 41 schools — including 0 LPN, 2 ADN, 9 BSN, 65 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 18 months (MSN — Health Systems Administration at Arizona State 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 $95,450 per year ($46/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.
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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Compare nursing programs in Delaware
- Most affordable programs in Delaware
- Online nursing programs in DelawarePrograms delivered primarily online for students who can't relocate.
- No-waitlist nursing schools in DelawarePrograms reporting open seats rather than a waitlist queue.
- Accelerated BSN programs in DelawareSecond-degree tracks for applicants who already hold a bachelor's.
- Fastest programs in Delaware
- ADN programs in DelawareAssociate-degree and community-college routes to RN licensure.
- BSN programs in DelawareFour-year pre-licensure bachelor's degrees for first-time RNs.