Akron also hosts satellite campuses for several Ohio nursing schools that offer accelerated BSN and RN-to-BSN completion paths. These programs are designed for working adults and use a mix of online coursework and in-person clinical hours. The Ohio Board of Nursing lists these programs in its public registry of approved nursing education providers. Students can verify accreditation status directly through the ACEN or CCNE databases before applying.
Tuition Costs and Financial Aid for Nursing Students
In-state tuition for the University of Akron BSN program is approximately $11,000 per academic year for Ohio residents, while out-of-state rates are higher. Additional costs include fees for clinical supplies, background checks, and immunization records. The university provides nursing-specific scholarships through the College of Nursing and the University of Akron Foundation. Federal aid options include Pell Grants, Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, and work-study positions. Federal Student Aid offers a free application to determine eligibility for need-based funding.
Community colleges in the Akron area, such as Stark State College and Cuyahoga Community College, offer lower-cost associate degree and practical nursing programs. Tuition at these institutions is typically under $5,000 per year for in-district students. Many hospitals in the Akron region, including Cleveland Clinic Akron General, offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing nursing degrees. Students should complete the FAFSA early and check with their employer for education assistance benefits.
Licensing, NCLEX Pass Rates, and Career Outcomes
Graduates from Akron nursing schools must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed registered nurses in Ohio. The Ohio Board of Nursing publishes aggregate NCLEX pass rates by institution and exam attempt. First-time pass rates for BSN programs in the Akron area generally align with or exceed the national average. Students who do not pass on the first attempt may retake the exam after completing a remediation plan. National Council of State Boards of Nursing provides official NCLEX test plans and candidate performance data.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects strong demand for registered nurses, with employment growth expected through the next decade. Akron-area hospitals, outpatient clinics, and long-term care facilities regularly hire new graduates. Common starting roles include medical-surgical nurse, telemetry nurse, and ICU nurse in major health systems. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports median annual wages for registered nurses in Ohio based on current wage surveys.