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Nursing Degrees & Schools / Best Schools Nebraska

Apart from surreal corn fields and thriving agriculture, Nebraska is home to some of the top nursing schools in the country. So whether you are an experienced nurse looking for academic advancement or you want to break into the nursing field, you have some worthy choices. 

Choosing the right nursing school does not only depend on its ranking but also on other factors. With accelerated degree programs and bridge programs, you can become a nurse with significantly less time in school. 

To earn job satisfaction and a handsome RN salary in Nebraska, the right nursing education in the right school is of utmost importance. To make the process less stressful, Incredible Health has compiled this guide citing all the best schools and programs for you to choose from in the state of Nebraska. 

Nebraska’s top nursing programs:

1. University of Nebraska Medical Center
2. Bryan College of Health Sciences
3. Nebraska Methodist College
4. Clarkson College
5. Creighton University
6. College of Saint Mary
7. Nebraska Wesleyan University

1. University of Nebraska Medical Center– Score: 74.29

NCLEX Pass Rate: 89.94%

In-State Annual Tuition: $7,770

Out-of-State Annual Tuition: $24,450

Located in Omaha, the University of Nebraska Medical Center is one of the top nursing schools in Nebraska since they offer the best resources, latest technology and research facilities. They also have 50 international partnerships in 21 countries for education and research purposes. 

They offer 5 graduate, post-graduate, and diploma degree programs—BSN, ABSN, RN to BSN, DNP and MSN. Several elective nursing courses are available. The graduation rate of this eminent medical school stands at 95%. 

Available courses are as follows:

• BSN
• ABSN
• RN to BSN
• DNP
• MSN

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2.  Bryan College of Health Sciences– Score: 72.86

NCLEX Pass Rate: 96.43%

In-State Annual Tuition: $22,500

Out-of-State Annual Tuition: $22,500

Bryan College of Health Sciences is one of the best nursing colleges in the state, with the highest NCLEX pass rate on our list. It offers 6 nursing courses across graduate, post-graduate, diploma, and PG certificate programs. With a graduation rate of 76%, the college provides both on-site and online learning opportunities. The college has a reputation for providing 100% employment within four months of graduation. 

The nursing programs of Bryan College of Health Sciences include: 

• BSN
• BSN to EdD
• RN to MSN
• MSN
• DNP
• Post Master Certificate

3. Nebraska Methodist College– Score: 72.86

NCLEX Pass Rate: 95.62%

In-State Annual Tuition: $17,940

Out-of-State Annual Tuition: $17,940

Among the top nursing and allied healthcare organizations in the country, Omaha’s Nebraska Methodist College provides 4 graduate, post-graduate, and certificate programs in nursing. The college offers courses in on-site, online, and hybrid modes as well. Moreover, it has a graduation rate of 77%. 

Compared to most colleges on the list, fees for this college are reasonably priced. What’s more, the college has a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio and an 89% employment rate within 6 months. Students of the institution have given the school glowing reviews for their deep involvement in ensuring each student’s success.

Available nursing courses at Nebraska Methodist College are as follows:

• BSN
• MSN
• DNP
• Nursing Certificates

4. Clarkson College– Score: 67.14

NCLEX Pass Rate: 94.74%

In-State Annual Tuition: $18,960

Out-of-State Annual Tuition: $18,960

The first nursing school in Nebraska, Clarkson College has a legacy of 130 years of delivering top-notch nursing education. The college has an educational collaboration with Nebraska Medicine. With a graduation rate of 71%, Clarkson offers 6 graduate, post-graduate, diploma, and certificate courses. 

Besides providing on-site learning programs, the college also offers courses online. The RN to BSN course is specifically designed to offer registered nurses the chance to advance their careers in the ever-changing field of medicine. In this course, students need to complete 3 full-time semesters and 6 part-time semesters. 

The Higher Learning Commission accredited nursing college offers the below-mentioned courses: 

• BSN
• RN to BSN
• RN to MSN
• MSN
• BSN to DNP
• Post Graduate Certificate

5. Creighton University– Score: 47.14

NCLEX Pass Rate: 91.26%

In-State Annual Tuition: $44,524

Out-of-State Annual Tuition: $44,524

One of the best nursing schools in the nation, Creighton University has ranked among the top third national universities in U.S. News and World Report’s 2022 list. The university has also been cited as #13 for best undergraduate teaching. It offers 4 undergraduate, post-graduate, and certificate nursing courses, among which Creighton’s ABSN program is available in 6 specialties and has ranked among the top 50 programs by US news. 

Creighton University offers the following nursing courses:

• BSN
• MSN
• DNP
• Post Graduate Certificate

6. College of Saint Mary– Score: 34.29

NCLEX Pass Rate: 86%

In-State Annual Tuition: $21,800

Out-of-State Annual Tuition: $21,800

One of the top nursing colleges for women, the College of Saint Mary has been ranked in the “Top 25 Best Value Colleges” in the nation for three consecutive years, according to the U.S. News & World Report. The college has a ranking of #64 among the regional universities in the midwest. 

With the practical nursing certificate course, students can become licensed practical nurses in just one year. The BSN program provides students with every skill required for a collaborative healthcare environment through interprofessional experiences.

Nursing courses offered at the College of Saint Mary are as follows:

• BSN
• Practical Nursing Certificate

7. Nebraska Wesleyan University– Score: 31.43

NCLEX Pass Rate: 73.91%

In-State Annual Tuition: $38,898

Out-of-State Annual Tuition: $38,898

Nebraska Wesleyan University is ranked #24 in Regional Universities Midwest by U.S. News and World Reports 2022. Founded in 1887 in Lincoln, they offer 3 graduate and postgraduate nursing courses to their students—BSN, MSN, and RN to BSN. With a student-faculty ratio of 12:1, the university provides hands-on experience and personalized care to its students with a 3-day residency at the start of the curriculum. 

They are committed to personalized care where they aim to create a sense of community. They’re also cultivating an environment of diversity and paying personal attention to each student as a unique individual as part of their core values.

Nebraska Wesleyan University offers the below-mentioned CCNE accredited nursing programs: 

• BSN
• MSN
• RN to BSN

How to choose the right nursing program

The field of nursing involves several different career pathways. While choosing the right college and nursing program for your career growth, you need to consider several factors like location, tuition cost, and the credibility of the school.. Here are some of the aspects you should keep in mind while sorting through nursing colleges. 

Location

While there are several top-notch nursing schools in Nebraska, you should always consider the distance to school and clinics. Choose a college that is easy to commute to balance study and work efficiently. Don’t have time to commute daily to the campus? You can always opt for online or hybrid programs so that it’s easier for you to attend lessons even on a busy schedule. 

Tuition

Affordability is one of the biggest concerns in the path of higher education. Always pay attention to the in-state and out-of-state tuition fees and see if it fits your budget before choosing a nursing school. 

You can apply for federal loans through FAFSA to pay for your nursing degree. Many top nursing schools provide scholarships, work-study, and other financial aids to make higher education accessible to nurses. You can also look into student loan forgiveness programs if you already have student debt. For more information on how to get rid of your student debt, follow this guide. 

NCLEX pass rate

To become a registered nurse, every nursing graduate needs to pass the NCLEX test. So review the NCLEX pass rate of the colleges you are considering enrolling in. This will give you an idea of whether the school offers the necessary tools and resources for preparation. The NCLEX pass rate reflects the school’s credibility in providing quality nursing education. 

Programs offered

Choose a school that has fitting programs for your academic requirements. Besides the BSN programs that are offered by most nursing schools, look for advanced certificate courses if you want to upskill your educational background. Make sure the school’s programs align with your projected professional development. 

Graduation rate

A college’s graduation rate has been one of the traditional measures to judge its track record. Review the stats on how many students graduated and how long it took them to complete the course. However, it is important to note that a college’s graduation rate is based on the number of students who lived on campus during the four years they attended school. 

Nursing students nowadays might not fit into this category given the changing college models. Use your discretion before basing your decision on this statistic.

Next steps

Choosing the right school for a flourishing nursing career can be a tricky process. But don’t you worry! To make it easier for aspiring and ambitious nurses, Incredible Health has  compiled guides and resources so that you can make the best choice. 

The field of medicine is ever-changing, and keeping up with nursing education is not easy. However, if done right, choosing this career path might just prove to be amazingly rewarding for you. 

After you graduate, looking for the right job may seem like a daunting task. We have got you covered there too! Incredible Health will help you kickstart your career with guides on license requirements, free CEUs, job opportunities, etc. Need more advice? Our platform has extensive Q&A and advice from experienced nurses. 

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Methodology

In order to determine the best nursing schools in a state, Incredible Health compared the top schools among five categories: graduation rate, tuition, NCLEX pass rate, accreditation, and the number of nursing programs offered.

Each metric was scored on a 100-point scale, with 100 representing the highest total for that category. Then we compiled the individual scores to get an overall score.

We used data from: 

• University webpages
• Nebraska Board of Nursing
• U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard
• American Association of Colleges of Nursing
• Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
• U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges Rankings 

Nursing Degrees & Schools / Best Schools North Dakota

If all you know about North Dakota is that the winters are cold, you have a lot to learn. Though it’s true that the temperatures can drop below zero — and stay there — through much of the winter, the state enjoys all four seasons, and during the warmer months North Dakota grows more sunflowers and produces more honey than any other state. Nature lovers will thrive in the state’s wide-open spaces and national parks and marvel at the abundance of wildlife, including bison and moose. 

U.S. News & World Report places North Dakota #14 in its overall ranking of best states, noting it as #4 for infrastructure and #8 for its natural environment. Though known for farming, oil production has brought jobs and investment to the state, and the economy is growing. 

While nurses in North Dakota earn salaries that are marginally below the national average, the same is true for the cost of living, and nurses who pursue advanced degrees at one of North Dakota’s best nursing schools can earn substantially more.

North Dakota’s top nursing programs:

1. North Dakota State University
2. University of Mary
3. University of North Dakota
4. Minot State University
5. Mayville State University

1. North Dakota State University – Score 72

NCLEX Pass Rate – 93.53%

Annual In-State Tuition: $11,090

Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $16,634

North Dakota State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing that is broken down into two phases: a one-year pre-professional program that teaches prerequisite courses and three years of professional nursing courses. The school also offers LPNs the opportunity to expand their career through the following: a six-semester program primarily made up of online courses, an online RN-to-BSN course, and a DNP program leading to a career as a Family Nurse Practitioner. 

North Dakota State University’s DNP graduates have a 100% first time passing rate on the FNP certification exam and the school has a 59% graduation rate.

CCNE-accredited programs offered:

• LPN-BSN
• BSN
• RN-BSN (Online)
• DNP

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2. University of Mary – Score 64

NCLEX Pass Rate – 71.00%

Annual Tuition: $18,710        

The University of Mary offers multiple degree pathways to a nursing career, ranging from hybrid and online BSN programs for licensed practical nurses or registered nurses, to a variety of MSN degrees and DNP degrees. Individuals with a bachelor’s degree who are interested in a career in nursing have access to an in-person accelerated second-degree track that can be completed in 13 months. 

MSN programs include ADN-to-MSN and BSN-to-MSN programs in Leadership and management, an MSN/MBA healthcare administration dual degree, a nurse educator program, and a healthcare informatics program. DNP candidates can choose from a largely online Family Nurse Practitioner track or an online organizational leadership track. 

The University of Mary has a 56% graduation rate, which they encourage by offering all students enrolled in their nursing program on their main Bismarck campus up to $15,000 in scholarships, which is equivalent to a free year. The school has been ranked top in the country by Mountain Measurement, which produces NCLEX program reports to the nursing education community. 

CCNE-accredited programs offered:

• Accelerated BSN Program
• LPN-BSN (Hybrid)
• RN-BSN (Online)
• MSN (Online)
• DNP (Online)

3. University of North Dakota – Score 56

NCLEX Pass Rate – 86.61%

Annual In-State Tuition: $10,808       

Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $16,212

The University of North Dakota’s well-established nursing program has a 110-year history. Its first-time pass rate for the NCLEX is consistently above the national average, and the same is true for its certification pass rates. The school is proud that 79% of North Dakota’s registered nurses who are American Indian are also alumni of their programs. 

Degrees offered include an on-campus Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, an online RN-to-BSN program, online MSN tracks including Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, as well as a Nurse Educator program, a Nurse Anesthesia DNP program, and an online DNP program. The school has a 50% graduation rate.

CCNE-accredited program offered:

• BSN
• RN-BSN (Online)
• MSN (Online)
• Nurse Educator
• Nurse Anesthesia (DNP)
• DNP

4. Minot State University – Score 56

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NCLEX Pass Rate – 95.83%

Annual Tuition: $8,508          

Minot State University’s accredited nursing program offers a traditional four-year nursing degree on campus, as well as an online RN-to-BSN program for registered nurses who would like to earn their BSN degree. The online program is offered in a flexible format to match each student’s needs and can be completed on a part-time or full-time track. The in-person BSN offers clinical simulation at the school’s Nursing Clinical Simulation Center, as well as public health nursing experiences. 

The school has a 43% graduation rate and advertises itself as the most affordable university in the United States for out-of-state students. Noting that 47% of its students graduate with no student loan debt, Minot State offers dozens of nursing scholarships and an innovative automatic 4-year academic award to qualified incoming freshman that guarantees qualified student renewable financial aid based on their unweighted high school GPA and ACT or SAT scores.

CCNE-accredited programs offered:

• BSN
• RN-to-BSN (Online)

 5. Mayville State University – Score 52

NCLEX Pass Rate – 0%

Annual In-State Tuition: $7,623

Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $10,756

Mayville State University offers a fully online RN-to-BSN program for nurses who earned their Associate Degree in Nursing and who wish to pursue their baccalaureate degree. The program is offered both full time for completion within a calendar year and part time to be completed in 24 months. 

The school also offers online MSN programs in two tracks: Nurse Educator and Nursing Leadership and Management. Graduate certificate programs are also offered. Mayville State University has a 41% graduation rate.

CCNE-accredited programs offered:

• RN-BSN program (Online)
• MSN program (Online)

How to choose the right nursing program

Picking the right college is a different process for everybody. You may be pursuing a particular degree that is only available through in person classes, or you may be restricted by your work or family obligations to programs offered online. You may have cost considerations that drive your decision, or you may have the freedom to choose whatever school you find most appealing. Whatever your situation, start by making a list of your needs and priorities and then see which programs match. Other considerations to be taken into account include each school’s reputation, class sizes and faculty-to-student ratio, and the sites where clinical practice is offered.

Location

Once you’ve decided to study nursing in North Dakota, the location of each school will play a large role in your decision. The state is vast, but only has eight state board-approved baccalaureate degree programs: two  are located in Fargo, two in Bismarck, and the others spread across the state. 

If you’re planning on attending a traditional four-year program and living on campus then you can choose the setting that is most appealing to you, but if you are working and need to commute to campus, you will need to choose the campus that is most geographically available or consider a school that offers programs online.

Tuition

Pursuing a nursing degree is an investment in your future, but the funds needed can be hard to come by, especially as college and graduate school costs continue to rise. It’s important that you take the costs of each nursing program into consideration while also investigating the financial aid that may be available to you. There are numerous nursing scholarships offered directly through nursing schools, as well as available through local hospitals and online. You may also be eligible for federal, state, or local financial aid, as well as for student loans. 

NCLEX pass rate

Nursing program graduates have an additional step they need to take between graduation and starting their career: They need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination, or NCLEX, before they can get their state license. The percentage of their graduates that pass the exam on the first try is often a reflection of the quality of preparation that the schools provide. An NCLEX pass rate that exceeds the national average is an indication of a well-rounded, rigorous curriculum.

Programs offered

Perhaps the most important element to look for when choosing a nursing program is the availability of the particular track that you are looking for. Each nursing school in the state of North Dakota offers its own particular programs, so make sure that the education that you’re seeking is available.

Graduation rate 

Graduation rate is a statistic that indicates the percentage of students that graduate after four years of  study. Though this may be a reflection of student satisfaction with the education that they are receiving, in most cases it is an indication of complexities in the lives of the students who discontinue their education.

Next steps

Deciding to pursue nursing school is a big, life-changing decision. Whether you’re about to graduate high school and have always wanted to be a nurse or you’ve been in the field and you’re ready to take the next step on your career path, you’re laying the groundwork for your future. 

The application process may feel overwhelming, but if you take an organized approach to gathering the required documentation and submitting everything by each school’s deadline, you’ll quickly find yourself feeling in control. Don’t forget about asking mentors or professors for recommendations and filling out the necessary scholarship and financial aid forms. The sooner you get everything together and to the decision makers, the more quickly you’ll have your answer back and be ready to start on your educational journey — and before you know it you’ll have completed your program!

Once that happens it will be time to identify the perfect position to fit your newly acquired credentials. Incredible Health is here to help you with all the details, from making sure you comply with North Dakota’s licensing and continuing education requirements to getting you the answers you need about working in this beautiful state.

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Methodology

In order to determine the best nursing schools in a state, Incredible Health compared the top schools among five categories: graduation rate, tuition, NCLEX pass rate, accreditation, and the number of nursing programs offered.

Each metric was scored on a 100-point scale with 100 representing the highest total for that category. Then we compiled the individual scores to get an overall score.

We used data from: 

• North Dakota State University
• University of Mary
• University of North Dakota
• Minot State University
• Mayville State University
• North Dakota Board of Nursing
• Mountain Measurement
• U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard
• American Association of Colleges of Nursing
• Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
• U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges Rankings

Nursing Degrees & Schools / Best Schools New Mexico

New Mexico truly is the Land of Enchantment. The state has magnificent landscapes that invite outdoor adventure and a fascinating history including three UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Its unique blend of Native American, Spanish, Mexican, and Anglo cultures impacts everything from food to architecture, and the residents are constantly hosting amazing celebrations and festivals, including the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. 

New Mexico is home to large universities as well as small colleges, and is a fantastic place to pursue a nursing education as well as to settle down. Students at New Mexico’s nursing schools can pursue degrees ranging from entry-level all the way through to studying for a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree, and once graduated will be well positioned to earn generous salaries at one of the state’s many hospitals.

New Mexico’s top nursing programs:

1. University of New Mexico
2. New Mexico State University
3. Eastern New Mexico University
4. New Mexico Highlands University

1. University of New Mexico – Score 72

NCLEX Pass Rate – 100%

Annual In-State Tuition: $10,860

Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $27,166

The University of New Mexico’s nursing school offers five different nursing programs, three of which have been nationally ranked by U.S. News & World Report: the MSN program was tied for No. 61 and the DNP program tied for No. 80, while its online nursing program ranked No. 20 out of 179 in Best Online Master’s in Nursing Programs. The school is a federally designated Hispanic Serving Institution that takes pride in the diversity of its student body and emphasizes both research and treatment of vulnerable populations. Its signature programs, which have a graduate rate of 52%, aim to educate nursing students to become primary care practitioners, nursing professors, and nursing leaders.

CCNE-accredited programs offered:

• BSN
• RN-BSN
• MSN
• DNP
• Doctor of Philosophy

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2. New Mexico State University – Score 67

NCLEX Pass Rate – 73.13%

Annual In-State Tuition: $8,409 

Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $26,735

New Mexico State University’s nursing program has a 52% graduation rate, and offers both undergraduate and graduate programs. In addition to a traditional four-year BSN there are two separate pathways for students who have a bachelor’s degree in another field who would like to pursue a career in nursing.The graduate-level courses are all delivered fully online. The online MSN program is available on both a full-time and part-time basis, and the online DNP program is available both synchronously and asynchronously to both BSN-degreed nurses who wish to become nurse practitioners and to both APRN and non-APRN MSN-degreed students interested in in earning their clinical doctorate. 

The school focuses much of its clinical training on serving the community that lives along the U.S. Mexico Border, and in response to New Mexico hospitals’ critical need for anesthesia providers, the school recently introduced a Nurse Anesthesiology program to its DNP program.

CCNE-accredited programs offered:

• BSN
• Accelerated BSN Program
• MSN (Online)
• BSN-DNP (Online)
• MSN-DNO (Online)

3. Eastern New Mexico University   – Score 60

NCLEX Pass Rate – 96.43%

Annual In-State Tuition: $4,194     

Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $6,174

Eastern New Mexico University’s BSN Completion program offers registered nurses the opportunity to earn their BSN. The program is offered 100% online in 8-week courses, and the school reports that 72% of its part-time students complete the program and graduate within an average of 4.4 years, and 100% of students who received their BSN degree during the 2019-2020 academic year were employed as RNs upon graduation. 

The school also offers an online Master of Science in Nursing program that allows professional nurses to become nurse educators. The program takes two years or less and prepares graduates to assume the role of nursing instructor in associate and baccalaureate degree nursing programs in the state of New Mexico, as well as to sit for the National League for Nursing Certified Nurse Educator Exam.

ACEN-accredited program offered:

• RN-BSN (Online)
• MSN (Online)

4. New Mexico Highland University – Score 50

NCLEX Pass Rate – 00.00

Annual In-State Tuition: $2,391 

Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $4,815

New Mexico Highlands University offers an online RN-BSN program to registered nurses who are interested in earning their bachelor’s degree in nursing. The program is offered in cooperation with other academic areas with the university so that students can meet their general education core requirements. Practicums are completed in the student’s state of residence. The school has a graduation rate of 39%, and nearly half of its graduates pursue advanced degrees in nursing (i.e., nurse practitioner, nursing education, and nurse midwife).

CCNE-accredited programs offered:

• RN-BSN

How to choose the right nursing program

A career in nursing is your golden ticket to the future, but nursing programs are not all alike. Beyond elements like reputation, quality of faculty, and class size, different schools offer different nursing degrees, in different formats. Only you can decide between in-person or online education, whether you’re looking for full-time or part-time education, and even how much you’re willing to spend.

Location

Deciding you want to attend a New Mexico nursing school represents a big start in narrowing your options down, but still leaves you with plenty of options. New Mexico offers urban nursing schools, nursing schools in suburban settings, and nursing schools whose programs are offered exclusively online. 

If you’re just looking for academics and your priority is flexibility, then an online program is likely your best choice, but if you’re hoping to establish lifelong friendships among your cohort, you’ll probably be happier with a college that offers you an in-person setting, and possibly one where you live on campus. If you are a working nurse then your decision will be colored by your commuting time. 

Tuition

College tuitions are on the rise all over the country. Whether you are entering a four-year residential BSN program or you’re a working registered nurse looking to add to your education and advance your career, cost will be a consideration. When choosing, look at both  the quoted tuition and the availability of scholarships, grants, and financial aid. 

NCLEX pass rate

The National Council Licensure Examination, or NCLEX, is arguably the most important examination that a nursing school graduation will ever take. It is what allows you to obtain your license as a registered nurse and to begin actually working in your chosen career. Every accredited nursing program should adequately prepare you to pass the NCLEX, but some do a better job than others. When choosing between schools, taking note of their NCLEX pass rate can serve as a critical gauge of whether a school provides you with the tools you need to move forward with confidence. 

Programs offered

Some nursing schools strictly offer traditional nursing programs, designed to guide high school graduates through an undergraduate program that will end with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Others only offer online programs for those who are already registered nurses and who want their bachelor’s degree, while others offer a full menu of nursing degrees ranging from BSN through DPN. Each of these programs fills specific needs, but those needs may not be yours! Before you set your heart on a particular school, make sure that it offers the degree program that fits where you are on your educational path. 

Graduation rate 

Graduation rates are generally offered as a representation of a school’s accountability to its students, but these statistics can be misleading. Not all students follow traditional four-year paths. Many take longer to complete a program or end up having to leave before completion due to social, family, or work issues. Though a school’s graduation rate is a consideration, it tends to lose its value as its program offerings and student body vary.

Next steps

Doing your due diligence about the best New Mexico nursing program is a perfect starting point for your educational journey. Of course, getting from here to there is going to take more than doing the research, making a choice, and then pinning your hopes on your favorite program. The application process can be arduous, and requires organization and focus. You’ll need to keep track of deadlines, gather all the required documents, and in some cases complete prerequisite courses in order to qualify for the program to which you’re applying. 

There are financial considerations to attend to as well: You may need to fill out financial aid applications, search for scholarships and grants, or contact the program’s financial aid office. The work that you put in may feel like a full-time job, but remember that it’s all about the end result, and well worth the time and effort.

Once you’ve completed your nursing program, the credentials and skills that you’ve added will significantly add to your value as a nurse. If you want to leverage your education into a new position, Incredible Health can provide you with the resources you need. Need to know about New Mexico’s licensing requirements or continuing education requirements? We’re here with all the answers, and so are our community of local nurses who are happy to fill you in on all the other important information you need to know.

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Methodology

In order to determine the best nursing schools in a state, Incredible Health compared the top schools among five categories: graduation rate, tuition, NCLEX pass rate, accreditation, and the number of nursing programs offered.

Each metric was scored on a 100-point scale with 100 representing the highest total for that category. Then we compiled the individual scores to get an overall score.

We used data from: 

• University of New Mexico
• New Mexico State University
• Eastern New Mexico University
• New Mexico Highlands University
• New Mexico Board of Nursing
• National League for Nursing
• U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard
• American Association of Colleges of Nursing
• Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
• U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges Rankings

Nursing Degrees & Schools / Best Schools Iowa

Known as the Hawkeye State, Iowa is full of natural beauty. It’s no wonder this state is home to 50,629 registered nurses! 

If you’re considering a nursing degree, or are already a nurse and want to advance your education, Iowa’s healthcare scene has a high demand for these roles. In a 2021 survey report, 58.4% of employers said they had difficulty finding qualified nursing candidates for jobs, and 69.2% said they didn’t have enough people applying for roles they have open.

If you’re looking to be one of these in-demand, qualified nursing candidates, the first step is picking a good nursing school. To make this less stressful and to help you figure out where to start the process, we’ve compiled a list of the 5 best nursing schools in the state. 

Iowa’s top nursing program:

1. The University of Iowa
2. Allen College
3. Mount Mercy University
4. Mercy College of Health Sciences
5. St. Luke’s College

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1. The University of Iowa

Overall score: 84

NCLEX pass rate: 96.6%

Graduation rate: 72%

Annual tuition: $9,942 in-state, $31,905 out-of-state

The University of Iowa’s nursing program is nationally recognized and 99% of nursing graduates successfully find job placement within 6 months of graduation. The school is closely affiliated with the health sciences campus at the University of Iowa, allowing students access to state-of-the-art facilities and advanced research and training.

At the University of Iowa, students are treated as “junior colleagues” who are coached by the staff. Their innovative nursing program “combines in-depth learning with extensive patient contact.” This university is internationally recognized for its education in the nursing field. 

There are chapters of Sigma Theta Tau International, the Minority Student Nurse Association, and the University of Iowa Men in Nursing– which offers membership to all students.

Their CCNE accredited programs are:

• BSN
• RN-BSN (online)
• MSN (online or hybrid)
• DNP (online or hybrid)
• Ph.D.

2. Allen College

Overall score: 80

NCLEX pass rate: 98.35%

Graduation rate: 85%

Annual tuition: $19,236 

Allen College was established 90 years ago and has the distinction of being strictly a health sciences school. It is partnered with the UnityPoint Health system. Before enrolling in the nursing programs, general education credits must be completed at another institution. Class sizes are small, with an 11:1 student to teacher ratio, allowing more individualized instruction.

Allen College states its nursing programs “empower students to thrive in both theory and practice.” They focus on preparing their graduates through exposure to evidence-based practice, healthcare information technology, and the use of patient-centered strategies. 

Their CCNE accredited nursing programs are:

• BSN
• ABSN
• RN-BSN (online, except for clinicals)
• MSN
• DNP

3. Mount Mercy University

Overall score: 69

NCLEX pass rate: 94.52%

Graduation rate: 69%

Annual tuition: $36,606 

Located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Mount Mercy University’s Martin-Herold College of Nursing is partnered with Mercy Medical Center, which offers a grant program to attend the nursing program with little to no student debt. In addition to this exciting opportunity, the university’s average job placement rate is 97%.

Mount Mercy University’s professors also serve as nurses in local hospitals and other facilities. This means you can count on them to draw from real-world experience to provide your nursing education! 

The school’s CCNE accredited programs are:

• BSN
• RN-BSN (choice of online or on-campus courses)
• MSN (online)
• DNP

4. Mercy College of Health Sciences

Overall score: 61

NCLEX pass rate: 78.19%

Graduation rate: 65%

Annual tuition: $20,790

A private Catholic college located in the state capital of Des Moines, Mercy College’s nursing programs offer many flexible options. If you happen to be a paramedic looking to transition to a BSN they even have a degree pathway to meet that need (the only one in the state)! The flexibility extends to start dates, with availability throughout the entire year, not just the fall semester.

Mercy College’s BSN program introduces students to nursing coursework in their very first semester, meaning you’ll get clinical experience right from the start! Within a year of graduation, 88% of these students find job placement.

Their ASN program is offered in a part-time evening and weekend format, giving you an additional path to jumpstart your career if you need a less traditional approach.

The accredited degree pathways are:

• ASN
• BSN
• ABSN
• RN-BSN (online)
• MSN (hybrid; focus on Organizational and Systems Leadership only)

The ASN is ACEN accredited and the BSN programs are CCNE accredited. The MSN program is approved by the Iowa Board of Nursing. The College of Health Sciences is also accredited by the HLC.

5. St. Luke’s College

Overall score: 57

NCLEX ASN pass rate: 92.5%

Graduation rate: 80%

Annual tuition: $18,000

Like Allen College, St. Luke’s College is affiliated with UnityPoint Health. This small program based out of Sioux City offers small class sizes and a focus on educating students right in a healthcare setting– UnityPoint Health- St. Luke’s. 

St. Luke’s RN-BSN program is 100% online and ranked the #1 RN-BSN program in Iowa, per the college. 

Their ASN program is offered in-person and prepares students to be “competent and compassionate” new nurses.  

They offer two nursing programs:

• ASN 
• RN-BSN (online)

The ASN program is ACEN accredited and the RN-BSN program is CCNE accredited.

How to choose the right nursing program

This list of ranked choices is a great start to figuring out which school might be the best fit for you. To narrow it down, you’ll need to consider your personal career goals and needs. There are some key factors to include in your decision-making process. 

Location

Unless you’re enrolled in a 100% online program, commute time is a big factor in your everyday life as a student. Because of this, location matters unless you’re planning to relocate closer to your school of choice. If you’re unfamiliar with the area, it’s a good idea to research what it has to offer and even visit the school to see if the community is a fit for your needs and lifestyle.

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Tuition

Annual tuition will vary from school to school depending on whether they are a public or private institution. It also depends on whether you qualify for in-state tuition or will be paying out-of-state rates. You’ll need to file a FAFSA to determine your federal aid eligibility. Those funds may cover all or most of the cost, especially when combined with any scholarships or grants you may earn. 

NCLEX pass rate

As a first-time nurse, when you graduate from the nursing school, you’ll have to take the NCLEX to be able to get your nursing license. This exam is a reflection of how well your nursing school has prepared you with the knowledge you need to become a nurse. Your school of choice should have a good track record for passing test rates.

Programs offered 

The nursing degree you are pursuing may not be available at every school you consider. Some schools offer online or hybrid options while others do not. You’ll have to weigh these criteria to narrow down your choices. Then you can decide between schools that have the program and format you need.

Graduation rate

When you look at a school, the graduation rate is a good indicator of how well it supports its students in reaching the goal of completing the program on time. It is based on how many students finish their degree program within 4-6 years. 

Methodology

In order to determine the best nursing schools in a state, Incredible Health compared the top schools among five categories: graduation rate, tuition, NCLEX pass rate, accreditation, and the number of nursing programs offered.

Each metric was scored on a 100-point scale with 100 representing the highest total for that category. Then we compiled the individual scores to get an overall score.

We used data from: 

• University webpages
• Iowa Board of Nursing
• U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard
• American Association of Colleges of Nursing
• Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
• U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges Rankings 

Next steps

It’s a good idea to take a look at the application deadlines for each school and mark them on your calendar so you don’t miss any important dates. Not everyone gets accepted to the number one school of their choice, so it’s best to apply to several to ensure a seat in at least one of your choices. 

After you’ve submitted your applications, it’s time to relax. You’ve finished the hardest part of launching your nursing school experience. You’ve got this!

Nursing Degrees & Schools / Best Schools Minnesota

When you think of Minnesota, you probably think of lakes and outdoor activities — after all, it’s known as the Land of 10,000 Lakes and the place where waterskiing was invented. But if you’re looking at attending nursing school in Minnesota, there are many more reasons to choose the state. Minnesota is home to many of the world’s Fortune 500 companies, a fact which has been attributed to the region’s top-notch schools, amazing outdoor recreational opportunities, and overall high quality of living. U.S. News & World Report ranks Minnesota #2 on its list of Best States in the Country.

For aspiring and current nurses, the attractions of Minnesota are enhanced by the fact that nurses in the state earn average salaries that are above the national average. The presence of top-notch nursing schools and remarkable medical facilities, including the state’s top employer and the nation’s #1 ranked hospital, The Mayo Clinic, makes Minnesota even more attractive.

Minnesota’s top nursing programs:

1. Winona State University
2. University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
3. Bethel University
4. The College of St. Scholastica
5. College of St. Benedict
6. Minnesota State University-Mankato
7. Minnesota State University-Moorhead
8. Bemidji State University
9. St. Catherine University
10. Augsburg University

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1.  Winona State University – Score 79

NCLEX Pass Rate – 91.36%

Annual In-State Tuition: $8,100

Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $14,600

Winona State University graduates nurses with baccalaureate, master’s and doctoral degrees. The undergraduate program tied for #183 in U.S. News & World Report’s list of Top BSN Programs in the country and has achieved a 65% graduation rate and a 96% nursing job placement rate among its graduates. The school also offers an online, asynchronous RN-to-BSN program from its Rochester campus.

The school’s Department of Graduate Nurses offers Master of Science (MS) degrees for Nurse Educator and Organizational Leadership pathways, and six Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs and six post-graduate certificate programs. All are distance-learning accessible. Winona State University also offers nurses who’ve earned their BSN but who do not want to pursue an MSN degree the ability to apply for Degree Seeking Student status. This allows those admitted to take 12 graduate-level credits before being formally admitted to any of its DNP and post-graduate certificate programs.

CCNE-accredited programs offered:

• BSN
• RN-to-BSN (Online)
• MS (Online)
• DNP (Online)

2.  University of Minnesota/Twin Cities – Score 71

 

NCLEX Pass Rate – 85.31%

Annual In-State Tuition: $15,626

Annual Out-of-State Tuition: 34,556

The University of Minnesota/Twin Cities has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report for the quality of both its BSN and DNP programs. The school offers those two programs as well as a 16-month Master of Nursing program specifically designed for aspiring nurses who have earned a bachelor’s degree in another field of study, and a PhD program that is offered in person as well as via video link.

The school is a center for nursing research, ranking 15^th in the nation for NIH funding to nursing schools. Its informatics program and its midwifery program were each recognized as #2 in the country by U.S. News & World Report.

CCNE-accredited programs offered:

• BSN
• MSN
• DNP
• PhD

3.  Bethel University – Score 66

 

NCLEX Pass Rate – 85.31%

Annual Tuition: $41,110        

Bethel University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program tied for #251 in U.S. News & World Reports’ ranking of Best BSN Programs in the country and has a 71% graduation rate.  The program combines its nursing education with an emphasis on a Christian worldview, encouraging community engagement and offering unique study abroad opportunities.

The school also offers a fully online RN-to-BSN program that can be completed in as few as ten months. The school indicates that 95% of the program’s alumni are in leadership roles within five years of graduation. There is also a fully online MS in Nurse-Midwifery program that can be completed in two-to-three years.

Bethel offers credits for professional, life, military, and past educational experience.

CCNE-accredited program offered:

• BSN
• RN-BSN (Online)
• Accelerated BSN
• MSN
• DNP
• PhD

4.  The College of St. Scholastica – Score 63

 

 

NCLEX Pass Rate – 80.49%

Annual Tuition: $38,750

A U.S. News & World Report ranked Best Nursing School, The College of St. Scholastica offers multiple pathways to the nursing degree of your choice. If you’re pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, the school offers both Direct Entry as a freshman and its ENTER program that allows undergraduate students to declare a nursing major at the end of their first semester. The school also offers an accelerated BSN degree that combines online coursework with in-person labs and clinicals, which is completed in twelve months.

The College of St. Scholastica also offers a dedicated Veteran to BS in Nursing program that recognizes the skills and qualities gained in the military with educational credits. Students are matched with a faculty member who is also a military veteran and who offers personal advisement, academic support and clinical instruction.

CCNE-accredited programs offered:

• BSN
• RN-to-BSN
• Accelerated BSN
• Veteran to BSN
• BSN-to-DNP (Online)
• MSN-to-DNP (Online)

 

5.  College of St. Benedict – Score 54

 

 

NCLEX Pass Rate – 94.34%

Annual Tuition: $52,108

Undergraduate nursing students enrolled at the College of St. Benedict are provided a liberal arts education in combination with their nursing curriculum. Leadership and service are encouraged, and all nursing students complete a cultural immersion experience either locally or internationally in places such as Belize, South Africa, or the Dominican Republic. The school has an 80% graduation rate, and also offers 6-10 of its elite BSN students the opportunity to enroll in their 4+1 BSN-to-MSN cohort that saves a year of graduate school, and approximately $9,000 in tuition.

In addition to its undergraduate programs, the school recently expanded to include a Master of Science in Nursing with a focus on leadership and education for practice, as well as  two doctorate programs, with one offering a leadership track and the other a path to becoming a family nurse practitioner.

CCNE-accredited programs offered:

• BSN
• 4+1 BSN-MSN
• MSN (Hybrid)
• BSN-DNP (Hybrid)
• MSN-DNP (Hybrid)

6.  Minnesota State University/Mankato – Score 48

 

 

NCLEX Pass Rate – 78.49%

Annual In-State Tuition: $9,146.80

Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $18,200.80

The nursing program at Minnesota State University at Mankato offers both a traditional nursing pre-licensure program and an RN baccalaureate completion program that is offered in a 100% online format. The four-year program, which has a 54% graduation rate, was among the top 100 BSN programs in the country, according to U.S. News & World Report. They also offer two different DNP tracks: a full time 3-year program for BSN-degreed nurses that leads to certification as a family nurse practitioner, and a part-time, fully online track for MSN-degreed nurses.

The school’s students benefit from being taught at a 16,000-square-foot family nursing simulation center, and students, faculty, and staff from the school’s College of Allied Health and Nursing provide care at the Health Commons at Pond, a free medical clinic that provides care for area children, low-income and immigrant families.

CCNE-accredited programs offered:

• BSN
• RN-to-BSN (Online)
• BSN-to-DNP
• MSN-to-DNP (Online)

7.  Minnesota State University/Moorhead – Score 45

 

NCLEX Pass Rate – N/A

Annual In-State Tuition: $8,540

Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $17,080

Minnesota State University at Moorhead offers online and on-campus nursing programs leading to BSN and MSN degrees. The school’s BSN program is one of the top 200 programs in the country according to U.S. News & World Report, and offers multiple nursing scholarships to its students, as well as international study experiences. The RN-to-BSN program is fully online and flexible.

The MS in Nursing program offers a Nursing Education track and a Nursing Administration and Organization Systems Leadership track, both of which are taught online with monthly synchronous meetings using a virtual platform. This structure allows students to arrange their practical learning in their home area.

CCNE-accredited programs offered:

• BSN
• RN-to-BSN (Online)
• DNP (Online) 

8.  Bemidji State University – Score 45

 

 

NCLEX Pass Rate – 80.49%

Annual Tuition: $8,690

Listed by U.S. News & World Reports as one of the top BSN programs in the country, Bemidji State University’s Department of Nursing offers both an on-campus BSN program and a fully online RN-to-BSN degree designed to accommodate the needs of working registered nurses. The school provides a dedicated support community called Niganawenimaanaanig that was specifically created for Bemidji State’s indigenous nursing students within both of these degree programs.

Bemidji State University’s campus is located in northern Minnesota. It is a wooded campus along the shore of Lake Bemidji. The school has a 50% graduation rate.

CCNE-accredited programs offered:

• BSN
• RN-to-BSN (Online) 

9.  St. Catherine University – Score 44

 

NCLEX Pass Rate – 77.97%

Annual Tuition: $46,796

In addition to having its graduate-level nursing programs nationally ranked by U.S. News & World Reports, St. Catherine University’s nursing program has also been listed as one of the top 200 BSN programs in the country. The graduate program offers multiple paths to becoming a nurse practitioner, as well as both an entry-level MSN degree for candidates who have bachelor’s degrees in non-nursing majors and for BSN-degreed nurses.

Nurses interested in earning a BSN degree can enroll in a four-year traditional BSN program through the university’s College for Women, and registered nurses with Associate’s degrees can earn a BSN online in only 10-to-12 months through the school’s College for Adults. That same division of the school also offers the opportunity for adult learners to earn their BSN by taking hybrid classes offered in the daytime, evenings, and weekends after completing prerequisite general education classes.

ACEN-accredited programs offered:

• BSN
• RN-to-BSN
• Direct Entry MSN
• MSN (Hybrid)
• DNP  (Hybrid)

10. Augsburg University – Score 35

 

NCLEX Pass Rate – N/A

Annual Tuition: $41,284

Augsburg University is a private university located in Minneapolis. It is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church and has a strong focus on serving diverse populations, whether at home or abroad. The school’s dedication to promoting culturally responsive health practices has led to a unique partnership with the Transcultural Nursing Society and immersion programs in places as diverse as England, Guatemala, Mexico, Namibia, and Nicaragua, as well as Minneapolis, Pine Ridge, and Rochester.

The school offers an online BSN completion program that can be completed in as little as twelve months: students who are employed by corporate or community partners of the college may be eligible for $50 off per credit hour. There is also an online MSN completion program that is offered via synchronous Zoom with asynchronous learning between sessions, a hybrid DNP-FNP program that can be completed on a full-time basis in four years, and a DNP in Transcultural Nursing Leadership.

CCNE-accredited programs offered:

• RN-to-BSN (Online
• MSN (Online)
• DNP (Hybrid)

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How to choose the right nursing program

Maybe you’ve always wanted to be a nurse, or maybe you’ve just come to the decision after carefully evaluating several careers and their potential. Maybe you’re already a nurse and you’ve decided to go back to school to advance professionally. Whatever your situation, you now need to evaluate the Minnesota programs that fit your goal and choose the one you want to attend. Each school has its own advantages, and you need to compare those attributes with your priorities and needs. Tuition, reputation, and availability of flexible scheduling are just a few items you’ll want to weigh.

Location 

Minnesota’s nursing schools are located in cities, in wooded, sylvan settings, and in the midst of suburbia. If you’ll be living on campus the atmosphere is an important consideration, and if you’re commuting you’ll want to think about your drive. On the flip side, many of these programs are offered online, allowing you to take location out of your thought process. 

Tuition

There’s no getting around the importance of cost when deciding on a nursing school. Private nursing schools tend to charge significantly more per credit hour than public universities, even if you’re from out of state. Compare the tuition that’s being charged to your personal budget, but also look into the availability of scholarships, grants, and personal student loans. 

NCLEX pass rate 

As unique as each nursing program may be, they all share one thing in common: their graduates need to pass the NCLEX exam in order to be licensed as a nurse. A school’s NCLEX pass rate is a reflection of how well it has prepared its students for this standardized exam, and is a useful metric for students considering attending. 

Programs offered 

Nursing schools offer programs to suit a wide range of needs, from LPN-to-BSN programs all the way to PhD programs. No matter how appealing you find a campus or how wonderful a school’s reputation, if they don’t offer the program or pathway that you need, you will have to leave them off of your list. 

Graduation rate  

For students considering a particular nursing school’s BSN program, graduation rate can help assess whether a school is delivering on its students’ expectations. The statistic represents the percentage of students who enter the school as freshman and who complete a four-year degree within six years. Though a school’s graduation rate does not include students who transfer in, attendees of RN-to-BSN programs or graduate students, it is still worth considering when deciding whether a school is right for you. 

Next steps

If only getting into a top Minnesota nursing school were as easy as choosing the one you want to attend. Unfortunately, the selection process is only the beginning. Once you’ve decided it’s time to fill out applications, submit fees, request transcripts and letters of recommendation, and write a personal statement explaining why you’ll be an asset to the program and the profession. Remember that the best way to approach a big project like this is to take it one step at a time, staying organized and on top of deadlines.

And once you’ve gotten into your desired school, you’ll be astonished by how time flies. Your graduation will signal your qualifications to Minnesota’s top employers. While your talent will lead the way, you still will need to stay on top of the state’s licensing and continuing education requirements. Incredible Health makes it easy for you to keep up with those CEU needs by offering free courses and immediate certificates upon completion. We also have a robust and active community of Minnesota nurses who will be happy to offer state-specific guidance and support.

Methodology

In order to determine the best nursing schools in a state, Incredible Health compared the top schools among five categories: graduation rate, tuition, NCLEX pass rate, accreditation, and the number of nursing programs offered.

Each metric was scored on a 100-point scale with 100 representing the highest total for that category. Then we compiled the individual scores to get an overall score.

We used data from: 

• Winona State University
• University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
• Bethel University
• The College of St. Scholastica
• College of St. Benedict
• Minnesota State University-Mankato
• Minnesota State University-Moorhead
• Bemidji State University
• St. Catherine University
• Augsburg University
• Minnesota Board of Nursing
• Federal Student Aid
• U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard
• American Association of Colleges of Nursing
• Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
• U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges Rankings

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