Rutgers School of Nursing Ranks No. 27 Nationally in U.S. News Rankings
Undergraduate nursing program places among nation’s top 4% and remains No. 1 in New Jersey
Rutgers School of Nursing ranks No. 27 among 671 undergraduate nursing programs nationwide in the 2027 U.S. News & World Report “Best Colleges” rankings, placing it among the top 4% in the country. This historic achievement represents the school’s highest-ever ranking since U.S. News launched its undergraduate nursing program rankings in 2022.
The school’s bachelor’s degree program also remains No. 1 in New Jersey among public and private nursing schools.
“This recognition reflects the dedication of our faculty and staff, the strength of our academic programs, and the talent and commitment of our students,” said Angela Starkweather, dean and professor. “Our undergraduate programs focus on preparing nurses who are ready to provide exceptional care, lead in a changing health care environment and meet the needs of the communities we serve.”
The ranking adds to Rutgers School of Nursing’s strong national standing across degree levels. In the 2026 U.S. News & World Report “Best Graduate Schools” rankings, the school’s Doctor of Nursing Practice program ranked No. 12 nationally and its Master of Science in Nursing program ranked No. 16. Both programs also rank No. 1 in New Jersey.
Rutgers School of Nursing offers multiple pathways to a bachelor’s degree in nursing, including its traditional four-year program in Newark and New Brunswick, its 2+2 program in Blackwood, a 14-month second-degree program in Newark and an RN-to-BS program, which is primarily online.
Undergraduate students prepare for nursing practice through classroom instruction, simulation-based learning and clinical experiences with health care and community partners throughout New Jersey.
Part of Rutgers Health, Rutgers School of Nursing offers programs at the bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral levels, as well as post-master’s certificates and professional development programs. Its educational mission is complemented by research and community engagement focused on addressing health challenges, improving health outcomes and strengthening the nursing workforce.
The 2027 U.S. News & World Report “Best Colleges” rankings were released on September 22. U.S. News has ranked undergraduate nursing programs since 2022.
U.S. News publishes the “Best Colleges” rankings each year to provide prospective students and their families with the comparative merits of undergraduate programs at America’s colleges and universities.
“The Best Colleges rankings celebrate schools that demonstrate outstanding commitment to student success,” said LaMont Jones, managing editor for education at U.S. News. He said the rankings are intended to help prospective students and families identify institutions that align with their academic, career and personal goals.
