Undergraduate Nursing Programs Rank Top 25 in U.S. News Best Colleges
By Gianluca D'Elia
Wednesday, September 24, 2025
The University of Rochester School of Nursing’s bachelor’s-level programs have been ranked No. 22 in the nation in U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 Best Colleges rankings, building on the School’s long history as a leader in nursing education and placing it as Upstate New York's No. 1 undergraduate nursing school.
The School offers several undergraduate program pathways, including 12-month and 24-month accelerated bachelor’s programs for non-nurses, and an online RN-to-BS program for associate’s- degree or diploma-prepared registered nurses.
This fall, a newly launched Master’s Direct Entry program also welcomed its first cohort, offering college graduates with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees an innovative path to becoming an RN with master’s-level knowledge and skills in healthcare leadership, policy, quality, and other key areas.
“Our top 25 ranking reaffirms that our nurses are receiving a top-tier education that equips them with the knowledge, skills, and compassion needed to stand out as leaders in healthcare,” said Dean Lisa Kitko, PhD, RN, FAHA, FAAN.
The news of the School of Nursing’s top 25 ranking arrives shortly after the School turned 100 years old on Sept. 15, marking the date that its first class of 16 diploma students arrived in 1925.
“Today, as an Apple Distinguished School and nationally recognized simulation center, we continue to attract exceptional students, faculty, and staff who carry forward our tradition of innovation and excellence,” Kitko said.
Published annually, U.S. News’ Best Colleges rankings are a resource for prospective students and families that provide comparative merits of undergraduate programs. The 2026 edition of the rankings evaluates more than 1,700 colleges and universities.
Earlier this year, the School of Nursing ranked 15th in the nation for master's programs, and 28th for its Doctor of Nursing Practice program in the 2025-26 Best Graduate Schools guide.
Categories: Accelerated Programs