Nursing in North Carolina

North Carolina has a large number of nursing programs, they are concentrated in a few metropolitan areas like Raleigh, Charlotte, and Greensboro. You can find LPN, ADN, and BSN programs throughout the state, but most schools are based near population hubs where major employers like UNC Health, Atrium Health, and Duke Health operate.

The state’s NCLEX pass rates have remained steady around 91%, with public community college programs generally performing best. Some smaller or for-profit schools show lower pass rates, which is an important factor when choosing a program. Practical nursing pass rates vary more, ranging from the mid-80s up to the low 90% range. Understanding program quality beyond simple averages helps when planning your education.

North Carolina’s Nurse Licensure Compact membership allows you to practice in most other compact states with a single license. However, nearby states such as Tennessee and Virginia do not participate, which may limit opportunities near those borders.

Job opportunities vary. While the state supports over 100,000 RNs, competition can be high in urban hospitals, especially for new graduates. Rural and underserved areas continue to face nursing shortages, creating openings in long-term care, community clinics, and specialty fields like geriatrics. Salaries for RNs average about $82,500 yearly, but this varies greatly by region and specialty. Advanced practice nurses earn significantly more.

The cost of nursing education also depends on where you study. Community colleges offer some of the lowest tuition rates, often under $10,000 for an ADN. University BSN programs can cost $15,000 or more per year, especially at private schools. North Carolina’s cost of living is slightly below the national average, so nursing salaries generally cover living expenses, but regional cost differences affect this balance.

This page includes tools to compare programs by type, view detailed NCLEX pass rate charts, and explore scholarships available to North Carolina nursing students.