Last Updated on June 4, 2024 by NAMS Editor

Have you always dreamed of a career in nursing but aren’t sure you have the grades or experience for the top programs? Nursing school admissions can be competitive, but North Carolina has plenty of options for those seeking a more accessible route into this in-demand field. In this guide, we will explore some of the easiest nursing schools in North Carolina with relatively lower admissions standards to help you pursue your passion for healthcare.

Coastal Carolina Community College

Coastal Carolina Community College (CCCC) in Jacksonville, NC has one of the most open-door admissions policies for aspiring nurses in the state. With an average acceptance rate of over 90% for their Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program, CCCC is a top choice for those seeking an affordable and accessible entry point.

As a community college, CCCC maintains lower academic standards compared to 4-year BSN programs. To be considered for the ADN program, applicants need only have:

• High school diploma or GED
• Minimum 2.5 GPA in prerequisite courses
• Completion of TEAS admission exam within past year

Tuition also remains competitive at only about $3,500 per year for in-state residents, making this one of the most budget-friendly options. Graduates often secure entry-level positions locally in hospitals, clinics, and other care settings. CCCC’s strong placement rate and seamless transition to BSN programs make it a top choice for accessibility and affordability in eastern NC.

Wake Tech Community College

As the largest community college system in North Carolina, Wake Technical Community College has campuses throughout the Raleigh-Durham area offering an Associate Degree in Nursing. Like other community colleges, Wake Tech maintains an open admissions policy requiring only a high school diploma/GED and completion of select prerequisite courses.

Some key strengths of Wake Tech’s nursing program include:

• High 90% acceptance rate for qualified applicants
• Competitive $3,500 in-state annual tuition
• Supportive learning environment with low faculty-to-student ratios
• Diverse clinical placement opportunities in local healthcare systems
• Articulation agreements allowing seamless transition to BSN programs

With multiple campuses located near Raleigh, Durham, and other population centers, Wake Tech offers convenient access along with a supportive culture. This, combined with strong job prospects post-graduation, help make it one of the top options for an affordable entry into nursing in central North Carolina.

Robeson Community College

In the southern part of the state near Fayetteville, Robeson Community College (RCC) has one of the most accessible nursing programs in North Carolina. With a mission to serve rural and underserved communities, RCC maintains a holistic, student-centered approach to admissions.

Rather than stringent minimum GPA or test score cut-offs, the college evaluates applicants based on overall potential for success. Personal statements, references, and interviews carry more weight alongside standard academic indicators. This open and flexible evaluation process creates opportunities for those who may have faced challenges but show strong character and commitment to healthcare.

Key positives of RCC’s Associate Degree in Nursing include:

• Exceptionally high 95%+ acceptance rate for qualified applicants
• Located in rural area with workforce shortages, ensuring strong job prospects
• Support services to help learners from all backgrounds succeed
• Articulation agreements for seamless BSN completion
• Affordable $3,500 annual in-state tuition

Supported by a diverse faculty invested in student support, RCC nurtures learners holistically through smaller class sizes and emphasis on cultural competence. This caring community makes it an accommodating choice, especially for those seeking an accessible start in a high-need service region. Robeson Community College demonstrates how open-door policies can expand access to quality nursing education across North Carolina.

Transitioning to BSN and Beyond

While ADN programs offer an affordable starting point for Registered Nurse licensure, many graduates choose to continue their education to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). This higher degree qualifies RNs for advanced practice opportunities and has become the preferred educational standard in many healthcare settings.

Thankfully, North Carolina’s community college nursing programs facilitate seamless pathways to complete the BSN. Through articulation agreements, graduates can transfer an Associate’s credits to numerous public and private NC universities to finish the remaining general education and upper-level nursing courses in 2 years or less. Some top BSN completion partners for ADN alumni include:

• East Carolina University
• University of North Carolina at Greensboro
• Western Carolina University
• Western Governors University (online)
• Duke University School of Nursing
• Mount Olive University

Beyond the BSN, advanced practice specialties such as Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Anesthetist roles require Master’s or Doctoral preparation. Community college can lay the foundation for RNs interested in continuing their education to an advanced level. Whatever your educational and career goals may be, open-door ADN programs in NC expand opportunities to enter and progress in the field of nursing.

Conclusion

For those seeking an accessible pathway into the in-demand and fulfilling nursing profession, North Carolina’s community college system provides some of the most supportive options available. In this guide, we highlighted Coastal Carolina Community College, Wake Technical Community College, and Robeson Community College as top programs with acceptance rates over 90% due to their open-door admissions standards.