Best Nursing Schools in Idaho in 2024

Idaho, known as the “Gem State” for its natural beauty, is a great place for aspiring nurses to launch their careers. With over 14,400 registered nurses currently employed and earning an average salary of $73,640 per year, the state will need to add 18,400 new registered nursing positions by 2030 to meet growing healthcare needs. Choosing the right nursing program from the list of the best nursing schools in Idaho is key to positioning oneself for these abundant nursing opportunities.

As the fifth highest state in the U.S. for the percentage of new registered nurses needed by 2030, Idaho’s favorable cost of living and high salaries create ideal conditions for nurses. The Idaho State Board of Nursing predicts the need for 1,110 new nurses per year, requiring significant expansion of nursing program capacity across the state’s higher education system. Identifying the best nursing programs in Idaho based on cost, program quality and job placement rates allows aspiring nurses to maximize their career opportunities.

• There are 13 nursing schools in Idaho.
• The CCNE accredits 5 nursing school(s)
• The ACEN accredits 5 nursing school(s).
• The NCLEX passing rate for BSN students in Idaho is between 85.54% and 92.59%.
• The NCLEX passing rate for ADN students in Idaho is between 79.33% and 100.00%.
• RNs currently employed in Idaho are 14,400.
• RNs in Idaho earn an average of $73,640 per year or $35.41 per hour.
• Idaho needs 18,400 new RNs by 2030 or 1,110 new nurses per year.

Overview of Nursing Programs in Idaho

Idaho offers a variety of accredited nursing programs across the state to become a licensed nurse. When researching nursing schools in Idaho, you’ll find options for the following:

• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) – Usually takes 2 years and prepares graduates to take the NCLEX-RN exam and become RNs. Offered at community colleges statewide.
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – Traditional 4-year degree for RNs, covers more advanced topics versus the ADN. Graduates still take the NCLEX-RN. Offered at universities and colleges.
• RN to BSN programs – For current RNs with an associate’s degree to bridge to the bachelor’s level. Expanding leadership skills and career options. Can often be completed online in 1-2 years.
• Accelerated BSN (ABSN) – Intensive 12-18 month bachelor’s degree for those who already have a bachelors in another field. Coursework plus hundreds of clinical hours prepare graduates to be RNs.
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Graduate-level degree for advanced specialty nursing careers like nurse practitioner or educator roles. Usually takes 2+ years.
• DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) – Designed for very high level nursing practice in a chosen specialty, with more clinical hours and residency components. Leads to titles like DNP or DrNP.
• PhD in Nursing – Focused on nursing research and academia. 4+ year program typically requires a dissertation and specializations are available.

With over 12 nursing schools in Idaho across its public and private non-profit colleges and universities, finding the right fit is key to a rewarding education and career ahead. As you evaluate the different nursing program options in the state, keep several factors in mind:

• Accreditation – Ensure the nursing school and also the college/university is accredited by reputable agencies like ACEN and/or CCNE, signs they meet national education standards. The Idaho Board of Nursing also approves qualified nursing degree programs in the state.
• Program outcomes – Graduation rates, certification exam pass rates like the NCLEX-RN, job placement rates post-graduation are key indicators of program quality. Make sure rates meet your expectations.
• Tuition costs and financial aid – Compare total program costs accounting for tuition per credit and fees. Seek schools offering generous scholarships or reasonable in-state tuition rates as an Idaho resident. Also check loan/grant eligibility.
• Program formats and location – Decide whether you need an online or in-person program, 2-year RN or a 4-year BSN pathway, and a school well-located for your lifestyle needs.

Once you graduate from an approved nursing program in Idaho and pass the national nursing exam NCLEX-RN, you’ll be eligible to become a registered nurse (RN) in the state through the Idaho Board of Nursing. Read on to learn more about types of programs.

What Are the Best Nursing Schools in Idaho?

Online Nursing Programs for Idaho Students

As nursing shortages continue nationally, online nursing programs enable more aspiring nurses to further their education while meeting work/life demands. Many Idaho nursing schools now offer hybrid or fully online nursing degrees. 

Students attending accredited online nursing schools in Idaho or through external schools can meet degree and clinical requirements needed for RN/APRN licensure exams and careers. Some key benefits include:

• Flexibility – Online programs allow you to balance work schedules and handle family responsibilities while earning your degree. Both synchronous and asynchronous options are available.
• Expanded options – Online schools enable RN nurses the flexibility to work while conveniently earning BSN or MSN degrees, regardless of location.
• Cost savings – No need to relocate or commute to campus helps lower total education costs like housing, transportation, etc. In-state public school online tuition can offer savings versus private options for Idaho residents.

Just be sure any online nursing programs in Idaho hold proper accreditation and state approvals. Common requirements like a minimum number of clinical hours must also be met through authorized external healthcare partners.

Accelerated BSN (ABSN) Programs

If your career goals include providing direct patient care as a registered nurse, but you already hold a Bachelor’s degree in another field, an Accelerated Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (ABSN) is a faster route to licensure, taking as little as 12-18 months. These intensive nursing programs enable grads from fields like engineering, business, pre-med and more to transition into well-paid nursing roles in high demand nationwide after graduation.

Compared to traditional BSN tracks taking four years, ABSNs cram nursing curriculum into an fast-paced program model by maximizing prior college credits. Just be prepared for a mix of demanding classroom lectures, skills labs simulations and hundreds of clinical practicum hours at hospitals providing patient care.

Minimum eligibility requirements for competitive ABSN nursing programs in Idaho include:

• Earned Bachelor’s degree with 3.0+ GPA
• Science pre-reqs like A&P I/II, Microbiology, etc.
• Strong letters of recommendation
• Clear criminal background checks
• Current CPR certification
• Essays on your motivation towards nursing

Upon completing an accelerated BSN nursing program in Idaho, second-degree graduates can take the NCLEX-RN exam for registered nurse licensure, then pursue rewarding RN careers across diverse healthcare settings like hospitals, private practices, schools and more. These lucrative BSN nursing graduate jobs can lead to career advancement like Nurse Manager roles. Later down the road, many ABSN nurses continue their education online through RN-to-MSN degree programs while working.

RN to BSN Programs

The RN to BSN program is designed for those who hold an associate in nursing/associate of science or Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) in nursing degrees. 

Best RN to BSN Schools in Idaho

• Best RN to BSN Programs in Idaho

Advancing from an RN to BSN offers nurses opportunities. Once you have your bachelor’s degree in nursing, you’ll develop valuable leadership skills, qualify for more advanced positions, and lay educational groundwork for future MSN/APRN roles. A BSN also leads to higher overall nursing salaries than ADN peers when job hunting.

While associate’s degree RN tracks focus purely on core nursing skills, RN to BSN programs deliver a well-rounded education covering topics like:

• Informatics – Utilizing technology in the clinical setting
• Research – Evidence-based insights to inform patient care
• Management – Team collaboration and quality/safety leadership
• Community health – Understanding diverse populations
• Health policies – Navigating nurse practice acts, state/federal reforms

Today in Idaho, RN to BSN tracks are conveniently offered either online or in a flexible hybrid format. BSN programs range from 1-2 years in length if attending full-time, integrating associate’s degree nursing credits through generous transfer policies. Several schools offer part-time flexibility catering to working RNs as well. Expect around 30 credits of upper division BSN coursework.

Overall RN to BSN programs offer affordable tuition around $315 per credit for in-state students at Idaho public schools, not counting additional fees. Compare total costs as well as pathways to earn future Master of Nursing degrees when selecting your school, to maximize job prospects after graduation.

Master’s in Nursing (MSN) Programs

Once RNs establish a strong clinical background and earn their BSN, pursuing an advanced Master’s in Nursing degree (MSN) opens doors to greater responsibility, higher salaries above $75/hour in Idaho, and satisfying roles transforming patient care.

Within ~2 years of full-time MSN program study, nurses gain expertise in a chosen specialty like:

• Nurse Practitioner (NP) – Diagnose, prescribe medications and treat patients across the lifespan as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN).
• Nursing Administration – Oversee staff, manage budgets, implement quality initiatives to improve care systems.
• Nursing Informatics – Develop innovative health IT systems and data analytics making care delivery more effective.
• Nursing Education – Teach future nurses through academia using a research-focused lens.

To get into competitive MSN programs at nursing graduate schools in Idaho, aim for 3.0+ undergraduate nursing GPAs showing mastery of advanced coursework. Strong letters of recommendation also help showcases your achievements.

Required undergrad classes like statistics form a foundation for analyzing research when evaluating evidence-based care models during an MSN program. Different graduate nursing concentrations allow choosing a career focus aligned to your passions within nursing.

For working nurses, MSN tracks at schools like Idaho State University, Northwest Nazarene University and others offer blended/online delivery with clinical intensives, providing flexibility. Expect 40-55 credits and 500+ clinical hours meeting MSN requirements in Idaho.

Certain MSN specialties like the Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) enable prescribing controlled substances, while others require ongoing physician collaboration under state regulations. Overall an MSN degree leads to the greatest scope of practice options among nursing master’s pathways nationwide.

Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs

The autonomy, work/life balance and ability to directly shape patient outcomes attract many MSN degree nurses to nurse practitioner careers. NPs perform many tasks comparable to physicians, at typically lower costs, helping expand healthcare access across settings like hospitals, clinics, nursing homes and schools.

NPs focus their 2-3 year MSN coursework and 500+ clinical hours on chosen specialties like:

• Family nurse practitioner (FNP) – Provide primary care from pediatric to elder patients.
• Adult gerontology NP (AGNP) – Care for teen through aging adult patients.
• Psychiatric mental health NP (PMHNP) – Treat psychiatric disorders and mental health through the lifespan.
• Pediatric NP (PNP) – Care for infant, child and adolescent health issues.
• Women’s health NP (WHNP) – Deliver babies and provide reproductive care for female patients.
• Acute care NP (ACNP) – Treat specialized conditions like heart disease, respiratory illness, trauma.

Idaho prepares these APRN practitioner roles across online + in-person MSN tracks. Expect 65 credits and 650 clinical hours on average. Training culminates in passing a national NP certification exam through ANCC or AANP matching your specialty, allowing you to obtain APRN licensure.

Overall NP careers offer advanced nursing practice autonomy caring for diverse patients. NPs in Idaho earn competitive median salaries of $115,800 annually, with job outlooks remaining robust compared to other health careers. (BLS data) Obamacare also created ample NP positions in affordable care clinics statewide.

Doctoral Nursing Programs (DNP & PhD)

For nursing scholars committed to top tier leadership authority directing complex healthcare institutions, or executing nursing research at universities, terminal degrees offer two options:

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Considered the clinical/practice-focused terminal degree in nursing, DNP programs teach organizational analysis, quality improvement, and financial mastery applied in nurse executive roles. The typical post-master’s DNP takes 36 credits over 3 years, culminating in a final DNP capstone project improving patient outcomes. DNPs increasingly serve as hospital Chief Nursing Officers (CNOs) managing staff and systems. They can also run independent primary care practices as nurse practitioners in Idaho.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing

This research-focused academic pathway prepares experts in scientific analysis who continue making strides in nursing science through faculty roles and publishing. The 60+ credit, 4-6 year PhD in Nursing programs immerse students into literature reviews, statistical data crunching and planning expansive PhD dissertations advancing healthcare delivery, policies or systems. Graduates become professors teaching evidence-based best practices to future nurses.

While research-focused PhD routes best suit future nurse scientists and professors, the versatile DNP degree remains most popular for senior nursing leadership careers. Explore both doctoral options fully before applying to Idaho graduate nursing programs like those at ISU, BSU or area universities.

Benefits of Becoming a Nurse in Idaho

Nursing offers a meaningful way to provide compassionate care improving community health, with the security of high demand for your skills nationwide. As Idaho’s senior population swells in coming years, further straining limited primary care access in rural areas, nursing careers promise:

• Robust job growth – Registered nursing roles are projected to grow 7% in Idaho by 2030, faster than the state average, adding 1,500 new RN job openings.
• Competitive pay – Average Idaho RN salaries currently top $75,000 annually, with Nurse Practitioners earning over $115,800 across hospitals and clinics. (BLS data)
• Varied work environments – Nurses can choose settings ranging from major hospitals in cities like Boise and Twin Falls, to intimate rural clinics and travel nursing contracts at desirable locations across Idaho.

If making a lasting difference through patient advocacy attracts you to an emotionally fulfilling career, nursing delivers both security and passion helping people when they’re most vulnerable. And earning a nursing degree in Idaho means enjoying a low cost of living compared to most US states.

How to Earn Your Idaho Nursing License

The first step towards a stable healthcare career starts by choosing the right nursing degree for your goals, whether an:

• Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) – 2-year community college diploma for entry-level registered nurses
• Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN) – 4-year university degree offering leadership foundations
• RN to BSN bridge program – Advance ADN education with expanded responsibilities
• Accelerated BSN (ABSN) second degree – Fast-track for those having a prior bachelor’s degree

Be sure your selected Idaho nursing school and program holds proper accreditations from either:

• ACEN – Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
• CCNE – Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

Finding the Right Nursing School in Idaho

When researching nursing schools in Idaho, first check that the program holds a regional accreditation endorsement along with specialty nursing program approval by either ACEN or CCNE. 

These voluntary review processes ensure rigorous education standards are met to sit the NCLEX RN exam after graduation, and demonstrate program quality. The Idaho Board of Nursing additionally approves qualified nursing degree programs across 2-year community colleges and 4-year universities in the state.

Some key indicators to evaluate when choosing among top nursing programs in Idaho include:

Accreditation

• Confirm the Idaho nursing program is ACEN or CCNE accredited for quality assurance. Regional institutional accreditation like through the NWCCU is also required.

NCLEX Pass Rates

• Passing this national RN licensing exam is mandatory for practice, so research program scores. Overall 80% of Idaho nursing grads pass the NCLEX RN exam, meeting standards. Pass rates will tell you if a certain university offers one of the best nursing programs in the state.

Tuition Costs and Scholarships

• Compare total program costs per credit and anticipate additional university fees when budgeting for nursing school in Idaho. Leverage school aid, external scholarships or nurse corps assistance to lower expenses.

Clinical Rotation Opportunities

• Look for schools partnering with major medical institutions like St Luke’s Health System and Saint Alphonsus Health System for direct patient care experience during 500+ clinical practicum hours.

Student-to-Faculty Ratio

• Lower ratios allow for more personalized academic advising, mentoring and resources to support your success through rigorous nursing curriculums.

Overall when researching “nursing schools and programs near me” in Idaho, the right fit aligns affordability, accredited BSN degree standards, robust graduate outcomes like NCLEX pass rates and job placement, plus forms a springboard towards advanced nursing practice through future MSN studies if interested.

Getting Licensed as an RN in Idaho

After successfully graduating from an approved nursing diploma, ADN or BSN degree program in Idaho, aspiring nurses must pass the NCLEX-RN exam administered through NCSBN for registered nurse licensure allowing professional practice across medical settings.

Licensure Steps

1. Graduate from qualified nursing school program in Idaho
2. Receive RN degree verification from approved school
3. Submit fingerprints for criminal background check
4. Apply for RN nursing license through the Idaho Board of Nursing
5. Register and pass NCLEX RN exam
6. Renew Idaho RN license every 2 years through license verification

Additionally, Idaho holds nurse licensure compacts with over 30 states allowing registered nurses licensed in Idaho reciprocal practice privileges when moving.

Certain RN specializations like public health nurses and nurse practitioners require separate certifications and endorsements through the state board as well. Overall Idaho maintains rigorous practice standards that reassure patients while empowering nursing professionals.

In-Demand Specializations

While nursing graduates can work generalist registered nurse roles upon initial licensure, those who specialize through future education or trainings see the highest job demand in Idaho currently across:

• Emergency and trauma departments
• Intensive and critical care units
• Labor and delivery
• Operating rooms
• Oncology and infusion centers

Specialty certifications can be obtained after baseline RN experience through organizations like the ANCC, demonstrating advanced expertise. Later down the road, nurses can also expand responsibilities through online MSN tracks offering NP education in as little as two years if attending full time while working.

Overall earning an Idaho nursing license through the Board of Nursing opens doors to secure, flexible careers improving community wellness. If you hold passion for helping others heal as a caregiver, nursing promises immense professional and personal rewards for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Nursing Schools in Idaho

What are the best nursing schools in Idaho?

Idaho offers several highly-ranked nursing programs, including those at Boise State University, Idaho State University, Lewis-Clark State College, North Idaho College, and the College of Southern Idaho. When researching the best programs, consider factors like cost, accreditation, program offerings and location in places like Eastern Idaho or Idaho Falls. Focusing on the top-rated Bachelor of Science in Nursing or Master of Science in Nursing programs can help lead you to a rewarding nursing career.

How much does an Associate Degree in Nursing cost in Idaho?

The cost of an Associate Degree in Nursing at Idaho public colleges averages $6,500-$9,000 total. This tuition is considerably lower than nearby states. When factoring in additional nursing program fees and other costs like books, an ADN typically costs between $10,000-$15,000 overall. Scholarships and financial aid like Idaho’s Opportunity Scholarship can help reduce expenses for qualifying nursing students.

Which Idaho nursing schools have the highest NCLEX pass rates?

The NCLEX exam pass rates indicate how well a nursing program prepares students for the nursing licensure exam. In Idaho, schools with some of the top pass rates include the Boise State University School of Nursing, College of Southern Idaho Nursing Program, Idaho State University School of Nursing and Lewis-Clark State College Nursing Program. These schools show a strong commitment to helping students gain the nursing knowledge needed for licensure and successful entry into the healthcare field.

What types of RN programs are available in Idaho?

Idaho offers several RN education options, including Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs, accelerated BSN programs, RN-to-BSN programs, and Master’s of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs. Many schools offer an LPN-to-RN bridge program as well. Top RN programs in Idaho are accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

What are the requirements to become an LPN in Idaho?

To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Idaho, you must graduate from an approved Practical Nursing program, pass the NCLEX-PN exam, and receive licensure from the Idaho Board of Nursing. Practical nursing programs are typically 1-2 years and provide the necessary knowledge and clinical training to provide basic nursing care under the direction of an RN or physician.

Where in Idaho offers the most nursing jobs and best salaries?

Many nursing jobs in Idaho are concentrated around the state’s major metro areas and medical hubs like Boise, Nampa, Meridian, Idaho Falls and Coeur d’Alene. These areas offer varied nursing opportunities in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities and doctor offices, with average RN salaries ranging from $60,000-$75,000 per year. The cost of living is also lower than nearby states.

What types of online nursing programs are offered in Idaho?

To meet the needs of working nurses, many Idaho schools now offer online RN-to-BSN programs and Master’s in Nursing degrees. These accredited programs allow students to advance their nursing education while balancing work and life demands. Some online options include nursing education, nursing leadership and clinical nurse specialist tracks. Online programs provide excellent preparation for advancing your nursing career.

More of the Best Nursing Schools in Idaho

Ranking Methodology and Data Sources

• Ranking Methodology
• University Webpages
• Idaho Board of Nursing
• 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 
• Bureau of Labor Statistics Salary Data
• Department of Labor Projected Employment
• Bureau of Economic Analysis Cost of Living Data

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