Iowa, the “Hawkeye State”, is in need of quality nursing schools to meet the growing demand for healthcare professionals. With over 32,650 registered nurses currently employed and an expected need for 37,070 new nurses by 2030, nursing remains a lucrative and meaningful career path in the state of Iowa for those earning an average salary of $64,990 per year. Identifying the top nursing school degree programs in the state is key for those looking to begin or advance their career in this field.
When searching for the best nursing schools in Iowa, you should look for established programs in the state that offer rigorous curriculums focused on evidence-based practice, clinical training opportunities, and curriculum innovations. By finding a nursing school that provides the knowledge, real-world skills, and networking needed to thrive professionally, you can feel confident they are on the path to a rewarding and meaningful career in improving healthcare.
- There are 33 nursing schools in Iowa.
- The CCNE accredits 17 nursing school(s)
- The ACEN accredits 10 nursing school(s).
- The NCLEX passing rate for BSN students in Iowa is between 68.35% and 98.15%.
- The NCLEX passing rate for ADN students in Iowa is between 66.15% and 94.97%.
- RNs currently employed in Iowa are 32,650.
- RNs in Iowa earn an average of $64,990 per year or $31.25 per hour.
- Iowa needs 37,070 new RNs by 2030 or 2,220 new nurses per year.
Nursing Schools in Iowa
Overview of Nursing Programs in Iowa
Iowa offers quality nursing education across levels to equip you with essential patient care skills. Program types include:
- 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.
When researching the myriad of state approved and nationally accredited Iowa nursing schools, look for strong pass rates on the NCLEX-RN licensing exam. Also confirm if online programs hold the proper approvals. Review key aspects like clinical hour requirements, admissions selectivity, and tuition rates. Assess if the nursing career path aligns with your professional goals.
What Are the Best Nursing Schools in Iowa?
#1 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Allen College
1990 Heath St, Waterloo, IA - 50703-1999
(319) 226-2000
- Programs: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, Bachelor, BSN to DNP, LPN to BSN, MSN, Post Master's NP Certificate, RN to MSN
With more than 90 years of educational service, Allen College is a health-care focused private institution in Waterloo. The college started in 1925 as a hospital-based School of Nursing which offers diploma programs. Presently, it offers a wide range of healthcare programs—baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral. Moreover, in terms of accreditation, the college is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Its baccalaureate, master’s and doctor of nursing practice degree programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) as well.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing - Students seeking a BSN degree at Allen College can do so through any of these three tracks—traditional, accelerated, and RN to BSN. The traditional BSN option requires 4-year completion with the first the first 1.5 years for the prescribed general educational credits from another college, while the remaining 2.5 years for the nursing coursework at Allen College. Meanwhile, the Accelerated BSN option has rigorous coursework which can be completed in 15-16 months or 4 consecutive semesters. Completion of the traditional and accelerated options provide eligibility to sit in the NCLEX-RN licensing exam. Lastly, the RN to BSN option can be completed in one or two years for an accelerated plan or part-time plan, respectively. Nursing courses in this option are delivered in an online format.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) - This MSN program has 8 specialization tracks. The said tracks are: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), Adult-Gerontological Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP), Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (ACPNP), Community/Public Health Nursing (CPH), Leadership in Health Information Technology (LHIT), and Leadership in Healthcare Delivery (LEAD). The LEAD option allows students to obtain an MSN from Allen College and a Certificate in Business Administration from the University of Northern Iowa. Students with BSN degree or RNs with non-nursing baccalaureate degrees are eligible for program admission. Moreover, these tracks are also offered as certificate programs for individuals who already possess an MSN degree.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) - Two entry tracks are offered for this DNP program—the post-graduate DNP and BSN-DNP option for master’s- and baccalaureate-prepared individuals, respectively. Moreover, students in the BSN-DNP option can choose between Nurse Practitioner, Community Public Health Nurse, Nurse Educator, or Nurse Leader, as their track.
#2 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
University of Iowa
- 101 Jessup Hall, Iowa City, IA - 52242-1316
- (319) 335-3500
- Programs: CNL, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: APRN Certificate, Bachelor, BSN to DNP, BSN to PhD, MSN, MSN to DNP
Located in Iowa City, University of Iowa is one of the premier public research universities in the country. With 175 years of educational service, it is the state’s oldest higher educational institution. Its College of Nursing places emphasis on holistic patient care provision. The curriculum is designed to provide a learning-centered environment.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) - This BSN program is approved by the Iowa Board of Nursing. Two pathways are available for this program—the pre-licensure BSN and the RN-BSN. The pre-licensure program prepares students for the NCLEX-RN licensing exam and for their roles as entry-level nurses. It is offered on-campus and is designed for a full-time study. Meanwhile, the RN-BSN program is for RNs with an associate degree or diploma who would like to obtain a BSN degree.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) - With an individualized study plan, this MSN program has flexible coursework since it is offered in an online or hybrid format. Students can choose between these specializations: Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) or Nursing Systems Administration (NSA). The former has options for 2- or 3-year completion while the latter can be completed in 2 ½ years. An MSN Bridge for Master of Nursing and Healthcare Practice (MNPH) Alumni is also offered which can be completed in 1 ½ years.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) - This DNP program has several pathways offered— BSN to DNP Dual Certification, MSN to DNP, and Post-APRN to DNP. Students are fully-equipped for the highest standard of care provision throughout the patient’s lifespan.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) - This scholarly and research-focused doctoral product has several entry tracks. Hence, students with an associate’s degree in nursing, baccalaureate in nursing or other fields, and master’s degree in nursing or a health-related field are eligible for program entry. Program graduates are equipped in the three roles highlighted by the AACN.
#3 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Northwestern College
- 101 Seventh St SW, Orange City, IA - 51041
- (712) 707-7000
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor
Northwestern College, located in Orange City, Iowa, is renowned for its exceptional nursing program, which has been significantly enhanced by the state-of-the-art DeWitt Family Science Center. Since 2019, the nursing department has been housed in this $24.5 million facility, providing students with access to cutting-edge resources and technology.
The DeWitt Family Science Center features advanced nursing facilities, including three simulation rooms dedicated to obstetrics, pediatrics, and medical/surgery, each equipped with two-way mirrors for faculty observation. Additionally, the center includes two mock doctor’s office exam rooms, two critical care rooms, and six advanced human patient simulators (adult, child, pregnant mother, and newborn). These high-fidelity simulators, along with IV training arms, a hospital-based computerized medication system, and an electronic health record simulation program, ensure that students receive comprehensive, hands-on training in a realistic healthcare environment.
The integration of these advanced facilities into the nursing curriculum at Northwestern College underscores the institution's commitment to providing top-tier nursing education. The combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills training prepares graduates to excel in various healthcare settings, making Northwestern College one of the leading nursing schools in the region.
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at Northwestern College in Iowa stands out as one of the best nursing schools in the state for many compelling reasons:
Comprehensive Clinical Experience
- Extensive Clinical Hours: Northwestern College provides over 700 hours of diverse clinical experiences, ensuring that students are well-prepared for real-world nursing environments.
- Cross-Cultural Health Experience: Students have the opportunity to serve at-risk populations through off-campus, cross-cultural health experiences. This includes medical mission trips to places like Tanzania, which offer exposure to different health services and cultural practices.
Holistic and Compassionate Care Approach
- Whole-Person Care: The program emphasizes caring for the whole patient—body, mind, and spirit. This approach is integrated into the curriculum, preparing students to be compassionate providers who advocate for patient needs and promote social justice and health within their communities.
- Biblical Shalom: The curriculum includes a senior capstone seminar that helps students understand the concept of biblical shalom, or health and wholeness, within the context of nursing.
Strong Academic and Professional Foundation
- Accredited Program: The BSN program is approved by the Iowa Board of Nursing, ensuring that it meets high educational standards[2].
- Focus on Lifelong Learning: The program promotes critical thinking, professional development, and lifelong learning, providing a strong foundation for graduate education in nursing.
Community and Faith-Based Support
- Nurses Christian Fellowship: Northwestern has an active chapter of the Nurses Christian Fellowship, which supports both professional and student nurses in providing compassionate care and sharing the good news of Jesus Christ[1].
- Community Engagement: The nursing department engages in various community-building activities, including health care awareness and outreach projects like blood drives and caroling at nursing homes.
Global and Local Impact
- Service Learning: Students participate in health-related mission/service experiences and develop cross-cultural portfolios, which are integral parts of their education.
- Advocacy for Social Justice: The program prepares nurses to advocate for health policies and practices that promote shalom at local, national, and global levels.
Faculty and Support
- Dedicated Faculty: The faculty at Northwestern are not only brilliant scholars but also committed Christians who invest in their students' academic and personal growth.
Rankings and Recognition
- State Ranking: Northwestern College is highly ranked among nursing schools in Iowa, providing a competitive edge in the nursing field.
In summary, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Northwestern College offers a well-rounded, comprehensive education that prepares students to be skilled, compassionate, and culturally competent nurses. The program's strong clinical focus, holistic care approach, and emphasis on lifelong learning and community engagement make it a top choice for aspiring nurses in Iowa.
#4 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Coe College
- 1220 First Ave NE, Cedar Rapids, IA - 52402-5092
- (319) 399-8000
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor
Coe College is located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Their nursing program's slogan is, "The nursing program is elite, selective, and known for educating outstanding nurses. We are not a typical BSN program!" Their program is unique in that their students have the opportunity to travel abroad, are paired one-on-one with nurse experts, and participate in highly interactive classrooms.
#5 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Mount Mercy University
Martin-Herold College of Nursing and Health
- 1330 Elmhurst Dr NE, Cedar Rapids, IA - 52402-4797
- (319) 363-8213
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor, MSN
#6 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Morningside University
Department of Nursing Education
- 1501 Morningside Ave, Sioux City, IA - 51106-1751
- (712) 274-5000
- Programs: Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: APRN Certificate, Bachelor, LPN to BSN, MSN, Post Master's NP Certificate
#7 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Luther College
- 700 College Drive, Decorah, IA - 52101-1045
- (563) 387-2000
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor
Luther College is located in Decorah, Iowa. They offer a BSN program and a Direct Entry Program. The Direct Entry Program allows a high school senior to apply for entrance into the program their freshman year of college.
#8 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Graceland University-Lamoni
- 1 University Place, Lamoni, IA - 50140
- (641) 784-5000
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor
Graceland University is located in Lamoni, Iowa. They are proud to boast that the Princeton Review called them "The Best in the Midwest" in 2015. They have traditional nursing degrees available on-campus, but also have a variety of online nursing degrees, ranging from their RN to BSN degree, from graduate degrees.
#9 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
University of Dubuque
- 2000 University Ave, Dubuque, IA - 52001
- (563) 589-3000
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor
University of Dubuque is a private, coeducational university in Dubuque. This Presbyterian Church-affiliated educational institution was founded in 1852. Its programs are grounded on a liberal arts core. Presently, the university has a student to faculty ratio of 15:1. Moreover, it received a university-wide accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission and the State of Iowa Department of Education. Its baccalaureate degree in nursing under the Department of Nursing also holds approval from the Iowa Board of Nursing and an accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Bachelor of Science in Nursing - With a 21st century curriculum design, this BSN program aims to meet the 21st century health care demands by producing baccalaureate-prepared nurses with developed core competencies. Students are fully-equipped for patient-centered care provision and evidence-based practice through exposure to clinical experiences in specialty care. The program also includes rotations to rural health areas in order to cater to under-served populations. The first two years of this four-year program are focused on social sciences, humanities, basic sciences, math, technology, communication, and nutrition. The last two years, on the other hand, are focused on nursing sciences with transition from classroom to real-life health facilities. A senior capstone course is included, requiring a 144-hour preceptorship. In this course, students are paired with a practicing nurse. Graduates are eligible to sit in the NCLEX-RN licensing exam, meeting the licensure foundational academic requirements of 50 states. However, additional requirements may be needed for some states beyond these licensure academic conditions.
#10 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Dordt University
- 700 7th St SE, Sioux Center, IA - 51250-1606
- (712) 722-6000
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor
Online Nursing Programs for Iowa Students
Iowa does allow certain online nursing programs catering to in-state students. Typically, registered nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) bridge programs offer more online flexibility versus initial RN licensure degrees. Many schools craft hybrid online options blending distance coursework with in-person labs and clinical rotations. Just ensure your selected online nursing program meets strict state standards.
Iowa only permits nursing schools holding proper certification by the Iowa Board of Nursing. Accreditation by either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or American Association of Colleges of Nursing’s Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) verifies quality standards. When deciding, choose a nursing program carries the Board’s full approval.
Accelerated BSN (ABSN) Programs
If you already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field, accelerated BSN (ABSN) programs offer the fastest route to become a registered nurse. These intensive 12-18 month nursing degrees cater to driven students ready for a rigorous mix of coursework and clinical training.
You’ll still need to complete science prerequisites like anatomy, physiology and microbiology. Expect selective ABSN admission requiring stellar undergraduate GPAs (often 3.0+), competitive test scores, essays and interviews. Motivation and maturity are pluses.
While intense, ABSN degrees efficiently prepare graduates for nursing licensure and rewarding careers. You’ll gain well-rounded BSN-level nursing competencies through a mix of:
- Challenging didactic coursework
- 500+ hours of clinical rotations and training
- Healthcare technolgy and nursing research exposure
- Development of leadership capabilities
Look for ABSN programs with a proven history of nursing exam pass rates and student success. Weigh tuition costs against the potential for quickly entering a lucrative RN career. Many nurses later pursue specialty MSN certifications or DNP/PhD pathways.
RN to BSN Programs
Licensed RNs can expand opportunities and nursing knowledge through RN to BSN completion programs. This option is for students with an associate in nursing or ADN degree. They bridge prior nursing diplomas or Associate Degrees in Nursing (ADN) to the bachelor’s level. RN to BSN curriculum goes beyond fundamental nursing concepts to strengthen care management, leadership, research, and evaluation capabilities.
Best RN to BSN Schools in Iowa
Many offer online RN to BSN programs with limited campus visits. Weigh factors like:
- Generous transfer credit policies valuing previous accredited nursing coursework and clinical hours
- Availability of dedicated nursing academic advisors
- Option to maintain RN work status during school
- NCLEX-RN exam pass rates
- Competitive tuition rates and financial assistance options
A BSN boosts career prospects and earning potential. It qualifies RNs for a wider scope of nursing jobs—from hospital management to public health roles. Many continue advancing through Master’s in Nursing tracks afterwards.
Master’s in Nursing (MSN) Programs
Those wanting to gain advanced nursing capabilities may pursue a master’s degree in nursing. Iowa MSN concentrations include specialties like:
- Nurse Practitioner (NP): Diagnose and treat common acute/chronic issues through thousands of clinical hours in a nursing subfield
- Nursing Administration: Oversee nursing operations, staff and services in healthcare settings
- Nursing Informatics: Blend healthcare expertise with information technology to enhance systems
- Nursing Education: Teach future nurses through academic instruction and teaching practicums
Iowa MSN applicants need a BSN degree with required undergraduate statistics coursework. Programs run 2-3 years depending on concentration and delivery format. Expect 500+ hours of specialized clinical training.
Competitive admission factors range from Nursing work history, GPAs, and test scores to interview performance. Confirm if the program format fits your schedule – with full-time, part-time, or post-master’s options.
Master’s prepared nurses enjoy enriched career opportunities and average national salaries approaching $100,000. Specialized NPs rank at the top – with six-figure average incomes in Iowa.
Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs
Among the most popular and lucrative Iowa MSN tracks is becoming a certified Nurse Practitioner. NPs act as frontline healthcare providers, diagnosing illnesses and prescribing treatments under licensed physician oversight.
Best NP Schools in Iowa
Iowa NPs have a broad scope of practice in providing entire patient caseloads primary care – including for families, adults, seniors, and psychiatric populations. They enjoy high demand across settings like hospitals, clinics, schools, and nursing homes.
The typical NP curriculum blends advanced clinical coursework with some 500-1,000 hours of supervised clinical rotations. Common specializations include:
- Family nurse practitioner (FNP): Broad training for patients across the lifespan. FNPs treat entire families – from pediatric to adult and geriatric care.
- Adult-gerontology NP (AGNP): Focus on adult and elderly patients
- Pediatric NP (PNP): Concentration on providing kids with primary and specialty medical care
- Psychiatric mental health NP (PMHNP): Assess, diagnose, and treat psychiatric and mental health conditions through therapy and prescription medications.
Following graduation and hundreds of clinical practicum hours, NPs must pass national certification exams to begin licensed advanced practice. Their specialized skills and expanding clinical authority fuels high demand in Iowa for primary and specialized care.
Doctoral Nursing Programs (DNP & PhD)
For those interested in the highest levels of nursing practice or research, Iowa offers both Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing pathways.
The practice-oriented DNP prepares nurses for leadership authority through immersive clinical training and nursing project work. The research-focused PhD develops academic scholars conducting original scientific nursing investigations.
Both require MSN master’s level preparation plus comprehensive doctoral-level coursework, extensive practicum hours and scholarly project/dissertation work.
Graduates pursuing college nursing professor and executive healthcare administration roles may target a PhD. Top advanced practice nursing clinicians can gain additional expertise and treatment autonomy as DNPs.
Both doctoral nursing routes demand extensive commitment yet lead to rewarding careers advancing healthcare excellence. Reach for these prestigious terminal degrees to achieve your goals in transforms Iowa healthcare.
Benefits of Becoming a Nurse in Iowa
Alongside deeply meaningful work, nursing careers in Iowa offer:
- High demand: Iowa faces pressing nursing shortages – with over 1,800 annual openings expected over the next 5 years. That fuels competitive nursing salaries.
- Strong salaries: Iowa nurses earn very attractive average incomes – ranging from $50,000+ for new BSN graduates up to potential six-figure salaries as seasoned nurse practitioners and nursing leaders.
- Varied work environments: Care for patients across settings like hospitals, clinics, schools, home health, government and private institutions.
Take advantage of excellent nursing career prospects within Iowa’s outstanding healthcare facilities. Whether drawn to advanced practice leadership or bedside patient care, nursing roles cater to all interests and aspirations.
How to Earn Your Iowa Nursing License
To begin practicing as an RN within Iowa’s world-class healthcare institutions, you must earn state licensure by completing these key steps:
1. Graduate from an Approved RN Nursing Program
Whether you complete an Associates, Bachelors or accelerated nursing degree, ensure your nursing school holds full approval by the Iowa Board of Nursing. You might also want to check that it is accredited by ANCC, AACN, or CCNE.
2. Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
Schedule and successfully pass the National Council Licensure Examination for RNs to demonstrate competency.
3. Become Licensed to Practice Nursing in Iowa
Upon passing the NCLEX, apply for licensure through the Iowa Board of Nursing. Renew your RN license every 3 years thereafter to maintain active status.
Once licensed, you can begin applying for nursing positions across dedicated Iowa facilities – or pursue advanced certifications through graduate nursing school.
Finding the Right Nursing School in Iowa
When choosing which nursing program to apply to, consider the ADN and BSN differences as well as each school’s tuition costs, program formats, clinical opportunities, and statistics on graduation and licensure rates. Consulting with practicing Iowa RNs can also help provide insight into the various RN programs in Iowa and paths into the field. Confirm that any prospective Iowa nursing college or university meets high standards across key indicators like:
Accreditation
Verify regional and program-specific accreditation for Iowa nursing schools. Institutional approval from the the Iowa Board of Nursing applies to all state programs. Specialized nursing accreditation through CCNE or ACEN marks adherence to national nursing education standards. Also, make sure that the program is approved by the Iowa Board of Nursing.
Once you graduate from an accredited nursing program in Iowa, you must take and pass the NCLEX-RN exam to receive RN licensure in Iowa and begin practicing. The average annual salary for RNs in Iowa is $59,130 but those with more advanced degrees (MSN degree) can earn higher salaries in Iowa.
NCLEX Pass Rates
The mandatory NCLEX-RN exam assesses nursing competencies for RN licensure. Favor Iowa nursing schools with strong licensure exam pass rates over 3 years. This signals effective teaching and preparation of students.
Tuition Costs
Compare baseline Iowa in-state tuition rates along with financial assistance. Many schools provide nursing scholarships or Nurse Corps aid to lower costs.
Student-to-Instructor Ratios
Lower nursing student-to-faculty ratios allow for closer professional mentoring during your nursing foundation. Typical classroom and clinical rotation caps ensure all Iowa nursing students receive adequate supervision and resource access.
Use these indicators to select standout in-state nursing programs matching your professional interests and prospective nursing specialty. Along with established healthcare networks like the Cedar Valley’s Allen Hospital System, Iowa Methodist Medical Center, and MercyOne Clinics, these distinguished nursing schools offer premier training and career launching pads.
Find Nursing Schools
Join a Top-Ranked Nursing School for a Life-Changing Career!
Getting Licensed as an RN in Iowa
Upon completing your approved Iowa nursing diploma, ADN, or BSN degree, take steps to become a licensed RN.
RN Licensure Process
All prospective RNs must pass the NCLEX-RN exam and apply for an Iowa nursing license through the Board of Nursing. Maintain licensure through timely renewal every 3 years. Some nurses also pursue optional specialty certifications.
RN Specializations
Certain Iowa nursing realms anticipate the most acute hiring demand, including ICU, ER, OB/GYN and Oncology nursing. Consider specializing in these high-growth areas through targeted certifications after entering RN practice.
Job Prospects
Exceptional RN career opportunities and competitive salaries await Iowa nursing graduates. The state projects over 11,000 new openings for RNs and nearly 2,000 for NPs by 2030 due to substantial growth and replacement needs.
New RNs earn around $25 per hour with salaries rising significantly through focused experience. The average Iowa registered nurse income exceeds $63,000 annually, with top earners like nurse anesthetists averaging over $208,000.
Rewarding RN nursing jobs abound within Iowa’s network of dedicated care facilities. Consider all the options to find your best path to help heal, educate, and comfort communities statewide.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Schools in Iowa
What are the top 10 nursing schools in Iowa?
Some of the top nursing programs in Iowa include Allen College, University of Iowa, Mount Mercy University, Clarke University, and Grand View University. Allen College is renowned for its excellent NCLEX pass rates and accelerated program options while the University of Iowa offers distinguished graduate-level nursing concentrations. Other top-ranked schools provide strong undergraduate BSN foundation and student-faculty support.
What types of nursing programs does the University of Iowa offer?
The prestigious University of Iowa College of Nursing provides bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral nursing degree options—including one of the few PhD in Nursing programs statewide. Their advanced MSN concentrations include Nursing Service Administration and several Nurse Practitioner specialties. The College also runs clinical nurse leader and nursing informatics programs along with nursing residencies and fellowships.
Are LPN to RN bridge programs available in Iowa?
Yes, many Iowa nursing schools offer LPN to RN transition programs, allowing licensed practical nurses to gain additional training and become registered nurses. These bridge curriculums recognize prior LPN coursework and clinical hours while providing essential RN-level nursing competencies. Allen College, Iowa Central Community College, Iowa Lakes Community College and other schools provide quality LPN to RN pathways.
Can I complete nursing prerequisites at my local Iowa community college?
Many prospective Iowa nursing students first complete fundamental prerequisites like anatomy, physiology, microbiology, psychology, and English at affordable in-state community colleges. Credits often seamlessly transfer to complete nursing concentrations at four-year colleges. Just confirm the articulation agreements with your target nursing program ahead of time.
What is the average salary for RNs and NPs in Iowa?
According to 2021 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, Iowa’s average annual salary for registered nurses equals $63,130, with top earners exceeding $100k, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The state’s nurse practitioners average approximately $117,760 a year. Excellent RN and NP job prospects and competitive nursing salaries await graduates of Iowa’s first-rate nursing schools.
How do I become an RN in Iowa?
Iowa offers several nursing programs to become a registered nurse (RN). The main options are:
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN/ASN) – Offered at community colleges and takes 2-3 years to complete. This includes the associate degree nursing program at North Iowa Area Community College, which holds approval from the Iowa Board of Nursing. Their applied science in nursing program provides the education needed to become an RN.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – Offered at 4-year colleges/universities and takes 4 years to complete. Top nursing schools in Iowa like the University of Iowa in Iowa City offer traditional BSN programs. There are also RN to BSN programs for those who already have an ADN.
More of the Best Nursing Schools in Iowa
|
Grade
|
University
|
Iowa Rank
|
Degree
|
|---|---|---|---|
| 88.24 | Morningside University | 8 | BSN |
| 76.99 | Clarke University | 9 | BSN |
| 76.25 | Saint Ambrose University | 10 | BSN |
| 76.13 | Mercy College of Health Sciences | 11 | BSN |
| 75.13 | Iowa Wesleyan University | 12 | BSN |
| 74.44 | Grand View University | 13 | BSN |
| 68.35 | Briar Cliff University | 14 | BSN |
Ranking Methodology and Data Sources
- Ranking Methodology
- University Webpages
- Iowa State 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
