10 Best Military-Friendly Nursing Programs for Veterans in 2024
Veteran nursing programs have evolved significantly in 2024. The American Public University System alone hosts more than 20,000 GI Bill students, making these programs highly competitive.
George Washington University and The University of Alabama lead the pack as joint #1 ranked institutions for veteran-focused nursing programs. These rankings stem from a detailed evaluation of over 2,600 schools. The evaluation process emphasizes vital factors such as Yellow Ribbon Program participation and veteran support systems.
Schools must meet strict criteria to earn a spot in these rankings. A minimum of 1,250 students receiving GI Bill Benefits demonstrates each institution’s commitment to military education. The top 10 list features prestigious names like Duke University at #3 and the University of Cincinnati at #10. Each program is a chance for veterans to build successful nursing careers.
George Washington University’s VA Nursing Program
GW Nursing’s Veterans to BSN program has helped over 100 service members start their nursing careers since 2014. Our veteran graduates have achieved an impressive 94% NCLEX pass rate, showing our excellence in nursing education.
GWU Nursing Program Overview and Rankings
We’ve designed a 15-month accelerated program that works for veterans, whatever their medical background. The program values military experience by giving academic credit for service training. Students complete 60 credit hours and 540 clinical hours to get a detailed educational experience.
Military Benefits and Financial Aid
The William and Joanne Conway Transitioning Warrior Nursing Scholars Initiative gives you:
- 50% tuition funding for up to four new students each semester
- Full participation in the Yellow Ribbon Program
- Flexible stipend options spread across four semesters
Veteran Support Services and Resources
Our support system includes a welcoming Veterans’ Lounge and special events just for veterans. Many of our faculty mentors have served in the military themselves and offer personalized guidance. Dr. Gretchen Wiersma leads our Veterans to BSN program, bringing her experience as a former Army 2nd Lieutenant.
We believe in creating a strong community that goes beyond the classroom. Veterans support each other through monthly group lunches, transition counseling, and guidance from faculty advisors who understand military life firsthand.
University of Alabama’s Veteran to BSN Program
The Capstone College of Nursing at The University of Alabama ranks #1 for Best Online Programs for Veterans in 2024. We stand as the only Alabama institution with this prestigious recognition.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Our RN to BSN program features a convenient online format that working professionals need. Students can complete their general education and nursing courses entirely online through our well-laid-out curriculum. This flexibility lets our veteran students earn their degrees while maintaining their personal and professional lives.
Military Experience Credit Transfer
The valuable training our veterans bring to the nursing field deserves recognition. We review military training for college-level credit based on American Council on Education (ACE) recommendations. Each service member gets at least 4 hours of military science elective credit, plus opportunities to earn:
- Physical education (up to 6 semester hours)
- General electives (up to 6 semester hours)
- Discipline-specific electives
Online Learning Options for Veterans
Qualified students under the Post 9/11 GI Bill® get complete coverage for out-of-state tuition and course fees through our unlimited Yellow Ribbon school status. Our program has earned gold-level Tier 1 Research Institution Military Friendly® School status. Students can complete both their BSN and MSN degrees in just 2 years through the RN to BSN/MSN option.
Duke University School of Nursing
Duke University School of Nursing stands out with its steadfast dedication to military students. Our #4 ranking for Best Online Graduate Nursing Program for Veterans shows this commitment.
Duke’s Military-Friendly Nursing Programs
Military students can complete their studies within service time constraints through our specialized course sequences. Our active-duty military scholarship program gives substantial support to service members:
- MSN/DNP program scholarships ranging from $40,000 to $56,000
- Eligible Army, Navy, and Air Force students receive automatic consideration
- Yellow Ribbon Program participation for Post-9/11 GI Bill® recipients
Veteran Student Success Services
Students get detailed support through our Student Success Center with both in-person and online consultations. The Pearson Building houses a dedicated space where students can access:
- Ways to improve study skills
- Stress management guidance
- Career advancement support
- Personal counseling services
Clinical Placement Support
Students can complete their clinical experiences at military treatment facilities, which gives them practical exposure in familiar settings. Representatives from each military branch serve on our faculty. These mentors understand their students’ unique viewpoints. Our partnership with VA Health Care System makes clinical rotations possible at VA sites nationwide. This prepares students to deliver veteran-specific healthcare effectively.
University of Texas Medical Branch-Galveston
UTMB’s School of Nursing achieved remarkable recognition in 2024. The school ranked #4 for veterans and secured the #12 position for online graduate nursing programs nationwide. Our distinction as Texas’s first nursing school to offer online graduate nursing education makes us proud.
UTMB Nursing Program Features
Students can choose from undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree tracks that align with various nursing career paths. Students access lecture materials whenever they need them through our recorded and archived online classes. This flexibility allows our graduate students to maintain full employment while completing their degrees.
Military Transition Support
Our veteran community benefits from a resilient support network that has:
- Monthly peer support meetings
- Dedicated veterans resource group
- Career development services
- Transition assistance programs
Veterans Affairs Partnership Programs
Strong partnerships with Veterans Affairs help students maximize their educational benefits. VA certifying officials help students navigate benefit policies and procedures. Veterans and active service members make up 20% of our student body, making UTMB a preferred choice for military personnel who want to pursue nursing careers.
East Carolina University Nursing
East Carolina University ranks #5 Best Online Nursing Program for Veterans by U.S. News & World Report. Our nursing program deeply understands military students’ needs.
ECU’s Veteran Nursing Initiatives
The Joining Forces initiative has our proud participation. This program helps nursing students learn about service members and their families’ unique health needs. Our College of Nursing blends specialized knowledge into graduate and undergraduate curricula, from research to clinical practice.
Yellow Ribbon Program Benefits
Qualifying veterans receive substantial support through our Yellow Ribbon Program. Last academic year, 26 veterans received USD 48,290 in Yellow Ribbon benefits. The program provides:
| Benefit Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Average Award | $1,857 per veteran |
| Total Award with Government Match | $3,715 per veteran |
Military Student Resources
Our Military & Veterans Resource Center serves as the life-blood of support. Students can visit Monday through Friday from 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. We provide:
- VetSuccess on Campus program with dedicated counselors
- Spacious study areas and wellness rooms
- Kitchen facilities and social spaces
- Academic workshops and peer advising
- VA medical referral services
- Career transition assistance
VetSuccess counselors give complete guidance to veterans. They ensure proper support for health services, VA benefits, and career development. Our campus stands as the first in North Carolina to have a dedicated VetSuccess counselor.
Vanderbilt University School of Nursing
The Bass Military Scholars Program makes our nursing program unique by providing a $30,000 annual scholarship to qualified veterans. This initiative works alongside existing VA benefits rather than replacing them.
Vanderbilt’s Military Nursing Track
Our Military & Veteran Students Affinity Group (MVSAG) provides complete support to help military personnel transition smoothly. The program includes:
- Study options that fit both part-time and full-time schedules
- Online learning technology that serves remote students
- Faculty mentors who have military experience
- Clinical partnerships with Fort Campbell, KY
Veteran Career Development Services
Our veterans connect with job opportunities through three key platforms:
- Liquid Compass updates daily with nationwide healthcare positions
- Nurses Lounge gives access to over 6,000 medical facilities
- VU Connect lists exclusive Vanderbilt alumni jobs
Financial Support Options
Our steadfast dedication to veteran education goes beyond the Bass Scholars Program. We provide:
| Program Type | Benefit Details |
|---|---|
| GI Bill® | Full coverage of eligible expenses |
| Yellow Ribbon | Unlimited participation |
| VA Benefits | Flexible payment options |
We maintain strong ties with the U.S. Air Force Academy and we are developing mutually beneficial alliances with the U.S. Military Academy and Naval Academy. These initiatives create a strong support system that addresses our veteran students’ unique needs.
University of Texas at Tyler
UT Tyler earned the Silver Military Friendly® School designation for 2023-24. This recognition places us among the top 20% of Tier 2 Research Institutions.
UT Tyler’s Veteran Nursing Programs
Our nursing programs span three locations in East Texas. We designed these programs to fit military schedules perfectly. The online master’s in nursing program ranks #7 nationwide for veterans. Our programs feature:
| Program Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Online Access | 24/7 coursework availability |
| Start Dates | Multiple options per year |
| Location | Three campus choices |
Military Experience Recognition
Service members bring valuable training and experience to healthcare. The Military and Veterans Success Center (MVSC) helps evaluate military training for academic credit.
Support Services for Military Students
The MVSC stands as the life-blood of support for all military-affiliated students. The center provides:
- Processing of GI Bill®, Hazlewood, and military Tuition Assistance benefits
- Collaborative work with local and national military organizations
- Priority registration for eligible student veterans
- Access to veteran-specific scholarships
Our mutually beneficial alliances with preceptors create strong coaching and mentoring relationships. These partnerships help veteran students get individual-specific guidance throughout their academic trip.
Texas Tech University Health Sciences
Our unique Veteran to BSN (VBSN) program builds on your military medical experience through a detailed assessment system.
Military-Friendly Nursing Curriculum
The 12-month accelerated track combines online classes with hands-on clinical instruction. Experienced coaches and nursing faculty guide students throughout their learning. Students can choose from multiple campus locations:
| Campus Locations |
|---|
| Odessa |
| Amarillo |
| San Antonio |
| Dallas |
| Abilene |
Veteran Student Organizations
The Interprofessional Military Healthcare Group (IMHG) creates valuable networking opportunities for veterans. Students can join S.A.L.U.T.E Veterans National Honor Society, which recognizes academic excellence and encourages leadership among military students.
Career Transition Support
Career development services help students with:
- Resume and cover letter critiques
- Mock interviews
- Salary negotiation guidance
- LinkedIn Premium access for eligible veterans
We work closely with Heroes to Healthcare and Hire Heroes USA to help veterans transition into healthcare careers. The Veterans Resource Coordination Group connects students with key resources during their academic experience.
Duquesne University School of Nursing
Duquesne University School of Nursing ranks as the #1 Military Friendly graduate school for 2023-24. We’ve become a top choice for veteran nursing programs.
Duquesne’s Military Nursing Programs
Our nursing education shows remarkable results. Our 96.67% BSN and 100% MSN Nurse Practitioner programs have outstanding first-time licensure pass rates. Students in our flexible online programs can:
- Study from any location
- Choose their preferred schedule
- Access 24/7 learning resources
- Participate in virtual collaboration
Veterans Benefits and Resources
We’ve managed to keep a complete support network through our Office for Military and Veteran Students. Our services include:
| Resource Type | Features |
|---|---|
| Academic Support | VA Certifying Official, Priority Registration |
| Personal Support | Veterans Center, Counseling Services |
| Professional Development | VA Work Study, Career Services |
Clinical Partnership Opportunities
Students can apply their theoretical knowledge in supervised settings through our clinical preceptorship program. Our partnerships with leading healthcare facilities help us deliver:
- State-of-the-art clinical experiences
- Innovative teaching methods
- Integrated patient care training
Our steadfast dedication to military students goes beyond academics. We’ve earned our spot as the #9 Graduate Nursing Program for Veterans and offer unlimited Yellow Ribbon Program participation to eligible students.
University of Cincinnati College of Nursing
UC stands as one of just three academic institutions in Ohio that takes part in the VetSuccess program. We serve more than 2,000 military-affiliated students. Our College of Nursing ranks among the top 10 Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs for Veterans.
UC’s Veteran-Focused Programs
We have several online and hybrid nursing programs available:
| Program Type | Features |
|---|---|
| Full-time | $2,500 per semester scholarship |
| Part-time | $1,500 per semester scholarship |
| Online RN-BSN | Flexible scheduling |
| Graduate Programs | Multiple specializations |
Military Student Support Services
Our Veterans Programs & Services office provides complete support to military students. The VetSuccess program has:
- Dedicated Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor
- Vet Center Outreach Coordinator
- Health services referrals through VA Medical Centers
- Customized academic counseling
Post-Graduation Career Assistance
We provided individualized counseling and referral services to help with career transitions. Our faculty works closely with students to help them balance their academic work with military duties. Our partnership with Operation Homefront helps build strong, stable military families who thrive in their communities.
Comparison Table
| University | National Ranking/Recognition | Program Duration/Format | Military-Specific Benefits | Yellow Ribbon Status | Notable Support Services |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| George Washington University | #1 for Veterans | 15-month accelerated | 50% tuition funding for 4 new students/semester | Full participant | Veterans’ Lounge, monthly group lunches, veteran faculty mentors |
| University of Alabama | #1 Best Online Programs for Veterans | Online RN to BSN | Military training credit through ACE | Unlimited participation | Gold-level Tier 1 Military Friendly® School status |
| Duke University | #4 Best Online Graduate Nursing for Veterans | Flexible course sequencing | $40,000-$56,000 MSN/DNP scholarships | Full participant | Student Success Center, military treatment facilities clinical placements |
| UT Medical Branch-Galveston | #4 for Veterans, #12 Online Graduate Nursing | Recorded/archived online classes | 20% veteran enrollment | Not mentioned | Monthly peer support meetings, veterans resource group |
| East Carolina University | #5 Best Online Nursing Program for Veterans | Not mentioned | $1,857 average Yellow Ribbon award | Active participant ($48,290 awarded) | Military & Veterans Resource Center, VetSuccess counselors |
| Vanderbilt University | Not mentioned | Flexible part-time/full-time options | $30,000 annual Bass Military Scholars | Unlimited participation | Military & Veteran Students Affinity Group |
| UT Tyler | #7 Online Master’s for Veterans | Multiple start dates, 3 locations | Priority registration for veterans | Not mentioned | Military and Veterans Success Center |
| Texas Tech Health Sciences | Not mentioned | 12-month accelerated | Multiple campus locations | Not mentioned | Interprofessional Military Healthcare Group, S.A.L.U.T.E Honor Society |
| Duquesne University | #1 Military Friendly graduate school | Online flexible format | Not mentioned | Unlimited participation | Office for Military and Veteran Students |
| University of Cincinnati | Top 10 Online Graduate Nursing for Veterans | Full/part-time options | $1,500-$2,500 per semester scholarships | Not mentioned | VetSuccess program, VA counselor support |
Conclusion
Military experience adds great value to nursing education. These top 10 programs show a steadfast dedication to veterans’ success. Each school brings something special – George Washington University funds 50% of tuition while Vanderbilt awards the $30,000 Bass Military Scholarship.
The Yellow Ribbon Program is a major advantage, and schools like University of Alabama and Duke University cover unlimited amounts. GWU’s Veterans’ Lounge and ECU’s VetSuccess counselors are a great way to get guidance that helps veterans transition smoothly into nursing careers.
Veterans can build on their service experience through various credit transfer options in these programs. They can complete practical training in familiar settings through partnerships with VA facilities and military treatment centers.
These schools’ commitment shows in their numbers – they all maintain high veteran enrollment rates and proven success records. Most of them offer flexible online or hybrid formats that let students balance their education with other duties.
The right nursing program depends on your location, format preferences, and benefit needs. Take time to compare these top-rated options based on your goals. Veterans from these schools have thrived in nursing education and gone on to successful healthcare careers.
