Top Nursing Schools in Vermont (VT)
Explore the Best Pathways to a Rewarding Career in Healthcare
Nursing is one of the most respected and in-demand professions in the healthcare industry today. As the backbone of patient care, nurses play a vital role in promoting health, preventing illness, and delivering critical support in hospitals, clinics, and community settings. With a growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals, pursuing a nursing education is both a practical and noble career choice.
Vermont offers a range of accredited nursing programs—from associate to bachelor’s and advanced degrees—tailored to students at various stages of their academic and professional journeys. Whether you’re entering college for the first time or returning to school to advance your credentials, Vermont’s nursing schools provide the education, clinical experience, and support needed to succeed.
Below is a comprehensive guide to the top nursing schools in Vermont, each offering unique strengths and opportunities for future nurses.
Top Nursing Schools in Vermont
University of Vermont (UVM) – College of Nursing and Health Sciences
Location: Burlington, VT
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The University of Vermont is home to the state’s flagship nursing program. UVM offers a traditional BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing), an RN-to-BSN pathway, and a DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) program.
Nursing Program Highlights:
- High NCLEX-RN pass rates
- Strong focus on evidence-based practice and clinical reasoning
- Hands-on experience at UVM Medical Center, a Level I trauma center
- Opportunities for global health experiences and community outreach
UVM’s blend of academic rigor, research, and real-world clinical exposure makes it one of the premier nursing programs in the region.
Vermont State University (formerly Castleton University and Vermont Tech)
Location: Multiple campuses including Castleton and Randolph Center, VT
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Vermont State University offers a comprehensive suite of nursing programs at various levels, including LPN, ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing), BSN, and MSN. Its flexible pathways make nursing education accessible to students across Vermont.
Nursing Program Highlights:
- Practical Nursing (LPN) and Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
- BSN completion program for registered nurses
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a focus on nursing leadership and education
- Simulation labs and community-based clinical rotations
Vermont State’s nursing programs are designed with career mobility and hands-on training in mind, preparing students to enter the workforce quickly or advance into leadership roles.
Southern Vermont College (Note: Closed in 2019, included for historical reference)
While Southern Vermont College previously offered a well-regarded BSN program, it closed in 2019. Students who would have considered this school are now often looking at Vermont State University or UVM for similar program offerings.
Norwich University – School of Nursing
Location: Northfield, VT
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Norwich University offers a rigorous nursing education within a military and civilian learning environment. The school provides traditional and accelerated BSN programs as well as online RN-to-BSN pathways.
Nursing Program Highlights:
- State-of-the-art nursing simulation labs
- Direct clinical placements across Vermont and New England
- ROTC and leadership development for students pursuing military nursing
- Emphasis on ethics, patient advocacy, and holistic care
Norwich combines technical excellence with leadership training, making it an ideal choice for students seeking both clinical expertise and personal growth.
Community College of Vermont (CCV)
Location: Multiple campuses statewide
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While CCV does not offer full nursing degrees, it provides excellent prerequisite and general education courses required for nursing programs across Vermont. Many students begin their studies here before transferring to UVM or Vermont State University.
Nursing-Related Program Highlights:
- Anatomy & Physiology, Microbiology, Psychology, and Nutrition
- Health Sciences and Pre-Nursing pathways
- Strong advising and articulation agreements with other nursing schools
CCV’s affordability and transfer-friendly model make it an accessible starting point for many aspiring nurses.
Saint Michael’s College
Location: Colchester, VT
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While Saint Michael’s College does not have a standalone nursing program, it offers strong pre-nursing and health science courses. Many students use this foundation to transfer into BSN programs at partner institutions.
Pre-Nursing Program Highlights:
- Biology, Chemistry, and Health Science majors
- Articulation agreements with UVM and other nursing schools
- Research opportunities and community engagement
Saint Michael’s supportive academic environment makes it a solid choice for students pursuing indirect pathways to nursing.
Landmark College
Location: Putney, VT
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Landmark College is dedicated to serving students with learning differences and offers health-related programs that can lead to careers in nursing or healthcare support roles.
Program Highlights:
- Associate degrees in Life Sciences and Health Studies
- Specialized academic coaching and support
- Small class sizes and personalized learning plans
Landmark is an excellent option for students seeking a customized, supportive path toward a future in healthcare.
Bennington College
Location: Bennington, VT
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Bennington College doesn’t offer a nursing degree, but it does provide a strong foundation in biology, public health, and pre-med studies for students interested in transferring to nursing programs.
Relevant Program Highlights:
- Biology, Neuroscience, and Public Health studies
- Field Work Term for hands-on experience
- Emphasis on self-designed academic pathways
Bennington’s unique model encourages students to pursue interdisciplinary health studies and later specialize in clinical nursing education elsewhere.
Middlebury College
Location: Middlebury, VT
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Middlebury College offers excellent preparation for students planning to pursue nursing as a second degree or through accelerated graduate entry programs.
Health Sciences Highlights:
- Pre-health advising for nursing and allied health careers
- Biology, Chemistry, Psychology, and Global Health majors
- Summer internships in hospitals and health centers
Middlebury’s liberal arts foundation and robust pre-health advising help graduates gain admission to top accelerated nursing programs nationwide.
Choose Nursing, Choose Impact
Becoming a nurse means joining a profession grounded in compassion, science, and service. Vermont’s colleges and universities provide a variety of pathways—whether you’re just starting out, returning to school, or transferring into a BSN program.
From clinical rotations and state-of-the-art labs to personalized advising and scholarship support, Vermont nursing schools are committed to preparing the next generation of caregivers and healthcare leaders.
If you’re ready to make a difference in people’s lives and build a meaningful career, nursing could be your calling—and Vermont is a great place to start.
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Graduating?
Ready to start your career?
Are you a new graduate looking for work?
How a New Grad Should Approach Recruiters to Start Their Job Search
Graduating is an exciting milestone, but entering the job market can feel overwhelming. One of the best ways to kickstart your job search is by working with recruiters. Recruiters have insider knowledge, access to hidden job opportunities, and connections with top employers. Here’s how you should approach them effectively:
1. Identify the Right Recruiters
Not all recruiters specialize in the same industries. Research and connect with recruiters who focus on your field. Websites like HeadhuntersDirectory.com can help you find the right professionals.
2. Craft a Strong Resume and LinkedIn Profile
Before reaching out, ensure your resume and LinkedIn profile highlight your education, internships, skills, and accomplishments. Recruiters need to see what makes you a strong candidate.
3. Reach Out with a Professional Message
When contacting recruiters via LinkedIn or email, be direct and professional. Here’s a sample message:
Hi [Recruiter’s Name],
I’m a recent [Your Degree] graduate from [Your University] with a strong interest in [Your Industry]. I’d love to connect and explore any opportunities that align with my skills. Looking forward to hearing your insights!
4. Be Clear About Your Goals
Recruiters work best when they understand what you’re looking for. Be specific about your preferred roles, industries, locations, and salary expectations.
5. Follow Up and Stay Engaged
If a recruiter doesn’t respond immediately, follow up after a week. Once you establish a connection, maintain regular communication without being overly persistent.
6. Be Open to Feedback and Opportunities
Recruiters may suggest jobs slightly outside your expectations. Stay open-minded and consider roles that can help build your experience.
7. Treat It Like a Professional Relationship
Even if a recruiter doesn’t place you in a job immediately, stay in touch. They might have the perfect opportunity in the future.
Final Thoughts
Working with recruiters can accelerate your job search, but your approach matters. Be proactive, professional, and open to opportunities. Connect with a local headhunter or recruiter to explore current opportunities!
Are you a new graduate looking for work? Headhunters Directory is an online directory of headhunters, recruiters, and employment agencies in the USA.
Connect with the top Vermont recruiters and headhunters when you are in active job search mode.