Fayetteville State University Ranked No. 1 Accelerated BSN Program in North Carolina for 2026

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – Fayetteville State University’s Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program was ranked on Oct. 1 as the top Accelerated BSN program in North Carolina for 2026 by RegisteredNursing.org. This recognition establishes FSU as a leading institution in preparing second-degree students for expedited entry into the nursing field.

“This recognition as the top program in North Carolina is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our faculty, staff, and students,” said Jennifer Johnson Edwards, DNP, associate dean of the School of Nursing and associate professor. “Our accelerated track is not just rigorous, it is transformative. We are dedicated to shaping compassionate, highly skilled nurses who will lead and innovate in a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape. This ranking affirms our mission to deliver excellence, advance the profession, and meet the health needs of our communities.”

Fayetteville State’s ABSN track offers an intensive, accelerated pathway for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing and are seeking to transition into the profession. The program combines demanding academic coursework, immersive clinical rotations, and individualized student support. These elements are designed to prepare graduates for licensure and successful entry into the nursing workforce.

This top ranking coincides with substantial growth in FSU’s nursing programs. In 2024, the university received a $2 million grant from the University of North Carolina System to support healthcare development initiatives, in addition to a recent $2 million gift from Cape Fear Valley Health, which will increase program capacity and double enrollment. These investments reinforce clinical partnerships, advance faculty development, and broaden training opportunities to address statewide workforce needs.

RegisteredNursing.org evaluated programs using publicly available data from the U.S. Department of Education’s Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and state nursing boards, considering program quality, student outcomes, and the structure of accelerated second-degree pathways. The complete methodology is available at: https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/.

“Fayetteville State University stands out for its innovative curriculum and dedication to student outcomes,” said Sally Worthington, outreach coordinator at RegisteredNursing.org. “We congratulate the program’s faculty and students for earning recognition and setting a high standard for nursing education in the state.”

For the complete rankings, visit the RegisteredNursing.org website.