In Northern Virginia, aspiring nurses can find associate's and bachelor's programs that prepare them for registered nursing licensure exams. These programs combine classroom learning with hands-on, clinical experiences in nursing fields. Accelerated bachelor's programs are also available for practicing registered nurses (RNs). Master of Science in Nursing programs can be found in some Northern Virginia schools along with doctoral programs for students interested in advanced nursing education and careers. Graduate programs offer a variety of specializations for students interested in a specific field of nursing.

George Mason University

Based in Fairfax, Virginia, George Mason University was ranked one of the top 5 'up-and-coming institutions' in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. In 2011, also ranked the School of Nursing graduate program as a Top Online Education Program. The School of Nursing, through the College of Health and Human Services, offers both undergraduate and graduate program options. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program prepares students for nursing careers in hospitals, long-term care centers and other healthcare facilities. Students must complete 120 credit hours in prerequisite, core and elective nursing courses, as well as general education courses. Clinical experiences working with diverse populations and in community-based programs are required. Accelerated options for the BSN are available for working RNs and candidates holding bachelor's degrees in non-nursing fields.

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs offer the concentration areas of nursing administration, nurse educator, advanced clinical nursing and nurse practitioner; the nurse practitioner program features the further specializations of family nurse practitioner and adult nurse practitioner. Focused on leadership and research, the PhD in Nursing program familiarizes students with the process of conducting quantitative and qualitative nursing research, analyzing data and proposing healthcare policy changes based on their findings. The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is intended for those individuals who wish to become expert clinical nurses. Students may concentrate in advanced clinical nursing, adult gerontology nurse practitioner, family nurse practitioner, family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner or nursing administration.

Marymount University

Marymount University in Arlington is located right outside of the nation's capital. It was founded in 1950 and remains a coeducational Catholic institution. BSN program options are available for individuals at all points in their careers: high school graduates, current RNs and second-degree students. Typical nursing courses include nursing fundamentals, health assessment, pharmacology and illness management. Students are also required to complete clinical experiences, a capstone project and internship.

Source: study.com