The University of New Mexico College of Nursing has moved up significantly in this year’s national rankings. The U.S. News & World Report 2027 Best Colleges list ranks the College’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program No. 56 in the country, a jump from No. 118 last year.
The ranking places UNM among the top 10% of BSN programs nationwide and keeps its standing as New Mexico’s top-ranked nursing program.
I am excited to have the hard work, carried out by our faculty and staff who provide excellent education and support to our BSN students, acknowledged on the national stage.
– Sasha Poole, PhD, RN, Assistant Dean of Undergraduate Education, UNM College of Nursing
This growth comes as New Mexico’s healthcare workforce needs increase, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
“I am excited to have the hard work, carried out by our faculty and staff who provide excellent education and support to our BSN students, acknowledged on the national stage,” said Sasha Poole, PhD, RN, the assistant dean of undergraduate education in the UNM College of Nursing. “I also extend a heartfelt congratulations to the other undergraduate programs at UNM that are on the U.S. News & World Report 2027 Best Colleges list.”
According to Fall 2026 UNM College of Nursing enrollment data, more than 1,200 students are enrolled across the undergraduate and graduate pathways.
We all bring our own experiences and perspectives to nursing, and being able to learn, grow and go through this journey alongside one another has been such a meaningful part of my experience.
– Mymy Tran Bui, Level 3 BSN Student, UNM College of Nursing
Students in the program come from varied backgrounds.
“What feels most special to me about UNM’s BSN program is the diversity within our nursing community,” said Mymy Tran Bui, a Level 3 College of Nursing student. “As a first-generation, non-traditional college student and a mom of two, I’m proud to represent students who are pursuing nursing at different stages of their lives, while balancing different responsibilities.”
Enrollment data shows 713 students were admitted to the College of Nursing this year – up from 645 the year before, and nearly 50% more than three years ago, as demand for the program has grown.
“We all bring our own experiences and perspectives to nursing, and being able to learn, grow and go through this journey alongside one another has been such a meaningful part of my experience at UNM.”
Applications are open for our BSN program. Whether you’re starting straight out of high school, transferring schools, pursuing nursing as a second degree, or looking for a program close to home, there’s a path here for you. Learn more, here.
