Kansas, known as the Sunflower State, is home to over 28,980 registered nurses who earn an average salary of $66,560 per year. This midwestern state boasts affordable living costs, making it an appealing option for those looking to obtain their nursing license in Kansas and launch their career. With over 10 accredited nursing schools and many program options, Kansas offers top education and training for those seeking an associate degree in nursing or other nursing credentials.
When searching for the 10 best nursing schools in Kansas City, it is important to explore factors like cost of attendance, program accreditation, and nursing licensure exam pass rates. Kansas nursing graduates go on to find rewarding careers across diverse healthcare settings, filling growing workforce needs. This article will help you find nursing programs suited to your needs and career goals.
- There are 42 nursing schools in Kansas.
- The CCNE accredits 16 nursing school(s)
- The ACEN accredits 21 nursing school(s).
- The NCLEX passing rate for BSN students in Kansas is between 66.79% and 94.43%.
- The NCLEX passing rate for ADN students in Kansas is between 56.84% and 96.17%.
- RNs currently employed in Kansas are 28,980.
- RNs in Kansas earn an average of $66,560 per year or $32.00 per hour.
- Kansas needs 33,190 new RNs by 2030 or 1,890 new nurses per year.
Nursing Schools in Kansas
Overview of Nursing Programs in Kansas
Those wishing to enter or progress in registered nursing can choose from multiple degree options:
- 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 evaluating programs in Kansas, key aspects to research include:
- Accreditation status
- Average student outcomes on the NCLEX-RN exam required for state licensure
- Types of program formats offered – online, campus-based or hybrid options
- Rankings and reputation of the school
- Tuition costs and availability of financial assistance
- Quality of faculty and clinical rotation opportunities
Oversight for nursing education standards falls under the Kansas Board of Nursing. Graduating from an approved Kansas nursing program is the first eligibility step to earning a state nursing license.
What Are the Best Nursing Schools in Kansas?
#1 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
University of Kansas Medical Center
Entry-to-Practice Nurse Residency Program
Strong Hall, 1450 Jayhawk Blvd, Room 230, Lawrence, KS - 66045
(785) 864-2700
- Programs: Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, CNL, Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor, BSN to DNP, BSN to PhD, MSN, MSN to DNP, RN to MSN
University of Kansas is located in Lawrence, Kansas. They have an expansive nursing program. They offer a traditional BSN program. Their RN to BSN program is online and is designed to be flexible so that it can accommodate the needs of its students; it can be completed as quickly as one year, or students can opt to take as long as five years.
#2 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Fort Hays State University
- 600 Park St, Hays, KS - 67601-4099
- (785) 628-4000
- Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate
#3 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Wichita State University
- 1845 N. Fairmount, Wichita, KS - 67260-0124
- (316) 978-3456
- Programs: Adult Gerontology Acute 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, MSN to DNP, RN to MSN
#4 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Benedictine College
- 1020 N 2nd St, Atchison, KS - 66002-1499
- (913) 367-5340
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor
Benedictine College is a Catholic educational institution with a focus on liberal arts located in Atchison, Kansas. It was given an accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission to grant degrees. This college received numerous awards and recognition, among these are from the U.S. News & World Report and College Consensus as #14 Best College in Midwest Regional Colleges and #1 College in Kansas, respectively.
Benedictine College’s Department of Nursing which is hailed as the #38 Top Nursing School in the Midwest offers a BSN degree. The department aims to educate its students in providing competent and responsible nursing care for all patients.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree The four-year BSN program is also known as 2+2 in nursing because of the required completion of nursing prerequisites and liberal arts coursework for two years prior to attendance in the College’s BSN program. Students can do simulation activities and practice in the Mother Teresa Center for Nursing and Health Education for it has four simulation rooms and a clinical skills laboratory.
This program received an accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and an approval from the Kansas State Board of Nursing to admit 36 junior students annually. With this, admission is competitive and standards include a CGPA of 3.0 or above, and a grade of C or better and a GPA of 3.0 above in all the prerequisite courses. Moreover, meeting these qualifications does not guarantee program entry.
#5 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Washburn University
- 1700 SW College Avenue, Topeka, KS - 66621-0001
- (785) 670-1010
- Programs: Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, CNL, Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: APRN Certificate, Bachelor, BSN to DNP, LPN to BSN, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate
#6 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Baker University
- 615 Dearborn Street, Baldwin City, KS - 66006-0065
- (785) 594-6451
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor
Baker University is a private educational institution located in Baldwin City, Kansas. Its curriculum has its roots in the liberal arts. Its School of Nursing has provided quality education for more than two decades through early clinical immersion and rigorous coursework. With this, Baker University has produced an excellent first-taker passing rate of 90% in NCLEX, significantly higher than the state and national average. In terms of employment, 95+% of Baker graduates with license and currently residing in Kansas are employed within 3 months of graduation.
Pre Nursing This program is designed in partnership with Stormont Vail Health in Topeka, wherein after completion of 62-hour prerequisites from the Baldwin City Campus of Baker University, students can proceed to their two-year professional program in the aforementioned institution. For those with a GPA of 3.0 or better, an admission preference is given. The curriculum is a blend of personalized learning, first-hand observation, and clinical immersions.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing This program puts emphasis on real-world, students’ engagement and service, and state-of-the-art learning through the simulation lab. Moreover, Baker University’s students are exposed to different professional developments with their membership in Kansas Association of Nursing Students and the National Student Nurses Association. Classes are held in small groups for optimum interaction.
Master of Science in Nursing The MSN program is a blend of evidence-based practice and advanced nursing theory which can be taken in two tracks- Nursing Education and Nursing Administration. Each of these tracks consist of 9 credits for chosen specialization, and 31-33 units for the core program. The former is geared to prepare students for their roles in the staff-development and academic settings, while the latter is focused on preparation for health care managerial and leadership roles.
Associate Degree in Nursing to Master of Science in Nursing Designed for individuals with Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) to transition to Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) at a faster and less expensive option. This consists of a series of bridge courses online for MSN program preparation. To be admitted, requirements include an ADN from a ACEN/CNEA-accredited nursing program, and a GPA of at least 3.00 (on a 4 scale).
#7 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Pittsburg State University
Irene Ransom Bradley School of Nursing
- 1701 S Broadway, Pittsburg, KS - 66762
- (620) 231-7000
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor, MSN, MSN to DNP
Pittsburg State University named after its location Pittsburg, Kansas, is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Its Irene Ransom Bradley School of Nursing is the premiere nursing school in the Midwest. With around 50 years in educating nursing professionals. This school provides bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in nursing which are CCNE-accredited.
Nursing Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Major This pre-licensure BSN track is designed for individuals who would like to become registered nurses or pursue an advanced practice with this as the bridge program. In terms of licensure exam passing rates, Bradley School of Nursing has a high 98.68% and 91.03% rate in the 2018 and 2019 NCLEX-RN, respectively. Moreover, this program is approved by the Kansas State Board of Nursing.
RN to BSN Nursing The RN to BSN Nursing program is tailored for students with a nursing license who would like to pursue a nursing baccalaureate degree. The courses are done online, and the program can be completed within 12 months when done full-time. A part-time option is also available for RNs working full-time.
MSN-Nursing (Education Emphasis) For those who want to apply their clinical knowledge in the education setting, the Master of Science in Nursing with an Emphasis in Education is the program designed for them. It consists of 33-credit hours done online to allow for flexibility for working individuals. Program graduates are eligible to take the Nurse Educator Certification Examination.
BSN to DNP (Doctoral Degree) The BSN to DNP program has two tracks for specialization- Advanced Practice Nursing and Advanced Practice Nursing with Education Emphasis. The former is a 74-credit hour focused on clinical or institutional leadership, while the latter is a 78-credit hour focused on nursing education leadership.
MSN to DNP Similar to BSN to DNP, the MSN to DNP offer the said tracks for specialization. Graduates of this program will be conferred a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree.
Nurse Educator Certificate This 13-credit hour post-master’s certificate program is designed for individuals who already possess MSN, DNP or PhD in nursing. This will allow them to enhance their knowledge and skills in preparation for a nurse educator role. Program graduates can take the Certified Nurse Educator (CNE®) examination.
#8 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
University of Saint Mary
- 4100 S 4th St, Leavenworth, KS - 66048-5082
- (913) 682-5151
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, Bachelor, MSN
University of Saint Mary (USM) is an applied liberal arts Catholic educational institution located in Leavenworth. It has an 11:1 student to faculty ratio, and the university has a growing focus on health care education. Among the programs offered in its Nursing Department are:
Traditional BSN-Nursing Program This CCNE-accredited program consists of 125 total credits inclusive of 64 nursing credits. It is intended for incoming freshmen as a direct entry into a BSN program. In terms of NCLEX performance, USM has a 92.98% passing rate, higher than that of the national average.
Accelerated Nursing Degree Intended for individuals with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees to fast-track their transition into the nursing profession. It offers flexibility, and can be finished depending on one’s pace, as this 64-credit hours, or two years of traditional coursework can be completed in just one year. In terms of NCLEX performance, USM’s accelerated nursing degree graduate has a high first-time pass rate of 94.83%.
RN to BSN Designed for professionals with an RN license, this RN to BSN program allows them to obtain a BSN degree in just 12-18 months. It consists of 28 core nursing credits and up to 96 transfer credits which can be done either in a convenient distance or on-site learning.
MSN-FNP The Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner specialty track can be completed in two years. It consists of 50 total credit hours with 720 clinical hours in 12 terms. Program graduates are eligible to take the FNP national certification.
MSN This online Master of Science in Nursing program is CCNE accredited. It offers two specialized tracks to choose from—Nurse Administrator or Nurse Educator, with a total credit hour of 35, and the latter specialization requiring additional 60 clinical hours
FNP CERTIFICATION (POST-MASTERS) This Post-Master's Family Nurse Practitioner Certification Program is designed for individuals who already possess an MSN degree for them. This consists of 24-38 credits inclusive of 720 clinical hours which can be completed in either two or four semesters. Students with NP certification in Pediatric, Mental Health, Acute Care, and Adult Gerontology are eligible for the two-semester schedule.
#9 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Hesston College
- 301 South Main, Hesston, KS - 67062-2093
- (620) 327-4221
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
Hesston College's Department of Nursing stands out as one of the best nursing schools in Kansas, offering a robust and comprehensive education that prepares students for successful careers in the healthcare industry. Here are the key reasons why Hesston College's nursing program is highly regarded:
Accreditation and Quality Assurance
Hesston College's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and approved by the Kansas State Board of Nursing. The program received a 10-year accreditation with a perfect review, indicating no recommendations for improvement or deficiencies. This accreditation, which extends until June 30, 2032, underscores the program's adherence to the highest standards of quality and integrity in nursing education[1][4][12].
Exceptional NCLEX Pass Rates
Hesston College's nursing graduates consistently achieve high pass rates on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). The class of 2023 set a record with a 97% first-time pass rate, and all May graduates achieved a 100% overall pass rate by September. These pass rates are well above the national average, reflecting the program's effectiveness in preparing students for licensure and professional practice[6][7].
High Job Placement Rates
Hesston College boasts a 100% job placement rate for its nursing graduates. This impressive statistic demonstrates the strong demand for Hesston-trained nurses and the program's success in equipping students with the skills and knowledge required by healthcare employers. Graduates find employment in various settings, including community hospitals, urban medical centers, clinics, specialty care centers, and more[2][7].
Comprehensive and Flexible Program Options
The Department of Nursing offers multiple pathways to a BSN degree, catering to different student needs:
- High School Students: A three-year sequence is available for students entering with 18 or more hours of college credit.
- Transfer Students: Students with at least 50 college credits can transfer into the program.
- Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs): LPNs can transition to a BSN degree through a specialized track.
- International Students: Tailored pathways are available for international students, including those with LPN licenses[11].
Supportive Learning Environment
Hesston College emphasizes a relational and supportive environment, with faculty dedicated to student success. The nursing program fosters a culture of caring and respect, ensuring that students receive personalized attention and guidance throughout their education. The faculty's commitment to nurturing positive relationships with students is central to the program's mission[2][8].
State-of-the-Art Facilities
The Bonnie Sowers Nursing Center provides students with modern facilities for classroom instruction, skills labs, and simulation experiences. These facilities enable students to practice clinical procedures and integrate theory with hands-on skills in a controlled environment, preparing them for real-life patient care scenarios[5][8].
Community Engagement and Service
Hesston College's nursing program instills a sense of social responsibility and community service in its students. Nursing students actively participate in fundraising and volunteer activities, such as raising over $4,500 for New Hope Shelter. This commitment to community service enhances the educational experience and fosters a holistic approach to healthcare[2][10].
Faculty Expertise
The nursing faculty at Hesston College are experienced professionals who provide instruction in classroom, laboratory, and clinical settings. They also serve as academic advisors, ensuring that students receive comprehensive support throughout their educational journey. The faculty's expertise and dedication contribute significantly to the program's success[8][9].
Conclusion
Hesston College's Department of Nursing is distinguished by its rigorous accreditation, exceptional NCLEX pass rates, high job placement rates, flexible program options, supportive learning environment, state-of-the-art facilities, community engagement, and expert faculty. These attributes make it one of the premier nursing schools in Kansas, offering students a transformative educational experience that prepares them for successful and impactful careers in nursing.
For more information about the Hesston College Department of Nursing, prospective students are encouraged to visit the college's official website and explore the opportunities that await them.
Gregg Schroeder
Director of Nursing Education
Citations:
[1] https://www.hesston.edu/2022/06/school-of-nursing-is-granted-10-year-accreditation-with-a-perfect-review/
[2] https://www.hesston.edu/academics/departments/nursing/
[3] https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/hesston-college-667070
[4] https://www.hesston.edu/catalog/general-information/assessment-accreditation-and-memberships/
[5] https://www.hesston.edu/academics/departments/nursing/about-the-nursing-program/frequently-asked-questions/
[6] https://www.hesston.edu/2023/10/school-of-nursing-sets-record-first-time-nclex-pass-rate/
[7] https://tabor.edu/tabor-hesston-finalize-strategic-academic-partnership/
[8] https://www.hesston.edu/academics/departments/nursing/about-the-nursing-program/
[9] https://www.hesston.edu/employees/
[10] https://www.hesston.edu/category/academic-department/nursing/
[11] https://www.hesston.edu/academics/departments/nursing/bachelor-of-science-in-nursing/
[12] https://www.hesston.edu/about/accreditation/
#10 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Bethel College-North Newton
- 300 E 27th St, North Newton, KS - 67117-1716
- (316) 283-2500
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor
Bethel College is located in North Newton, Kansas. They offer a traditional BSN program and an RN to BSN program. Bethel College also coordinates summer internships ata Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. Students also have completed internships at hospitals in Wichita, KS.
Online Nursing Programs for Kansas Students
Many out-of-state online nursing programs accept Kansas residents; however, it’s vital to verify a program’s approval with the Kansas Board of Nursing. Attending an unapproved out-of-state school can jeopardize your ability to obtain nursing licensure in the state later on.
When evaluating online nursing school options as a Kansas resident, be sure to ask about clinical rotation placement assistance in your area.
Accelerated BSN (ABSN) Programs
For driven students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field, Accelerated BSN (ABSN) programs offer the fastest route to become a registered nurse. Contrary to the traditional BSN program, these intensive 12- to 18-month curricula cover nursing prerequisites along with standard BSN academics.
Common prerequisites and requirements for admission to an ABSN program include:
- Prior bachelor’s or graduate degree with 3.0 minimum GPA
- Prerequisite courses depending on prior coursework
- TEAS or HESI nursing entrance exams
- CPR certification
- Clinical healthcare experience
ABSN students need to be prepared for challenging program pacing requiring strong time management skills. Courses blend rigorous online learning with 500+ hours spent training in local healthcare facilities under supervision of a clinical instructor.
RN to BSN Programs
Individuals with a registered nursing degree looking to enhance their skill sets and eligibility for higher nursing roles choose RN to BSN pathways. Most RN to BSN programs offer flexible online course schedules that accommodate working nurses. Schools also grant generous transfer credit for prior nursing academics and clinical hours.
Best RN to BSN Schools in Kansas
Earning your BSN opens up improved career prospects and earning potential. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports registered nurses holding a BSN degree garner roughly $80,000 median salary versus $75,000 for nurses with an ADN.
The additional BSN coursework focuses more on nursing leadership principles, health policies, communication, and public health. This equips nurses for a wider scope of duties with patients and interdisciplinary medical teams.
When researching RN to BSN programs ideal for working nurses, be sure to inquire about:
- Acceptance of transfer credits and nursing coursework
- Cost per credit hour and financial assistance options
- Availability of dedicated nursing academic advisors
- Percent of students successfully completing the program
Master’s in Nursing (MSN) Programs
Those ready to tackle an advanced nursing career should pursue a Master’s of Science in Nursing. Common MSN specializations in demand include:
- Nurse Practitioner (NP) – Diagnose and treat minor illnesses as a primary care or specialty provider
- Nurse Midwife – Deliver babies and provide well-woman gynecological & prenatal care
- Clinical Nurse Specialist – Expert in a specific patient population and care environment
- Nursing Administration – Manage hospital nursing units or entire facilities
Many nursing schools in the state offer MSN programs. Prerequisites vary, but to gain entry into the program, most require a bachelor’s degree in nursing. Some schools offer accelerated MSN options for those who hold a bachelor’s in another field. Dual degree programs are also available, allowing students to simultaneously earn an MSN and MBA.
Grad school applicants need strong academic records with 3.0+ undergraduate GPAs and good GRE test scores. Having RN experience under your belt also helps chances for competitive program admission. Moreover, graduates of nursing schools have better chances of getting hired and landing higher-paying jobs. Various school of nursing offers excellent MSN nursing options and hands-on clinical training opportunities.
Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs
Nurse practitioners provide an in-demand career path allowing for both professional autonomy and salary earning potential. NPs can work in primary or specialty care capacities – with common concentrations including family, adult-gerontology, pediatrics, women’s health among others.
NP programs blend rigorous MSN-level nursing science academics with at least 500 hours of supervised clinical rotations. Kansas offers both MSN tracks with seamless NP specialization, as well as post-master’s NP certificates allowing current MSN-prepared nurses to gain practitioner status.
Whether pursuing the NP as part of your initial MSN or through a post-master’s add-on certification, it’s vital to ensure the program adequately prepares you for national certification. Passing the ANCC or AANP national certification exam allows you to apply for advanced practice recognition through the Kansas Board of Nursing. Read here to know more about how to become a nurse practitioner.
Doctoral Nursing Programs
The terminal degree credential in the nursing field is a doctorate. For those interested in high-level clinical practice pursuits, the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is ideal. DNP programs underscore care system improvements and evidence-based interventions for optimal nursing leadership. An immersive clinical capstone project is a central DNP curriculum component.
For nurses looking to teach and conduct original research, a PhD in Nursing is warranted. A dissertation involving new and expandable research is mandatory. PhD-prepared nurses often take faculty and administrative university roles guiding the next generation of students.
While extended, both clinical and research-focused doctoral nursing programs open up prestigious expanded scopes of practice and income earning capabilities.
Benefits of Becoming a Nurse in Kansas
Along with a rewarding ability to improve patient health outcomes, nursing offers incredible job stability and salary-earning potential statewide. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects over 18% growth in Kansas registered nursing positions through 2026 – far outpacing most careers. Intensive care, emergency, pediatric, and home health nursing present some of the fastest-growing RN specialization areas.
Registered nurses in Kansas earn highly competitive wages significantly above national averages. Average Kansas registered nursing salaries range from:
- Licensed Practical Nurses – $47,000 Annual Salary
- Registered Nurses without Bachelor’s – $65,000 Annual Salary
- Registered Nurses with Bachelor’s – $78,000 Annual Salary
Top-tier nursing master’s and doctorate degree-prepared nurses open up six-figure roles managing major hospital departments or even directing entire facilities. Entrepreneurial nurse practitioners often establish their own primary care clinics as well.
How to Earn Your Kansas Nursing License
The key steps to launching a nursing career in Kansas involve:
Step 1. Graduate from Approved Nursing School Meeting Kansas Board of Nursing Program Standards
- Associate Degree in Nursing Program or Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing
- 12+ month LPN program for practical nursing
Step 2. Pass the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN Licensing Examination
- Schedule exam through NCSBN
- Receive passing score to qualify
Step 3. Apply for State Nursing License through Kansas Board of Nursing
- Submit fingerprints, background check and application fee
- Licenses renewed every 2 years through board
Finding the Right Nursing School in Kansas
With over 75 state-approved nursing programs across Kansas technical colleges and universities, discovering one matching your ambitions takes research. Comparing reviews and pass rates for BOARD exams also helps nursing students select reputable Kansas nursing schools that match their career aspirations, learning priorities, and cost of living considerations in choosing the right nursing program.
Key indicators of quality nursing schools include:
Accreditation
Graduating from an approved program is a prerequisite for licensing exams. When researching top nursing schools, look for regional accreditation alongside nursing-specific oversight by either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
Accreditation confirms an academically rigorous traditional BSN or shorter practical nursing program curriculum vetted by industry experts.
High NCLEX-RN Pass Rates
The NCSBN national nursing exam serves as the final step towards your license. Research historical school trends – the state average hovers around 85%.
Competitive Tuition + Scholarships
Evaluate program affordability looking at net price after potential scholarships and aid. Many Kansas nursing colleges offer strong financial assistance programs and scholarships, attracting top state talent.
Quality Clinical Placements
Clinical hours completed locally under registered nurse oversight ensures proper experience. Seek schools with robust hospital relationships offering acute care, outpatient, specialized rotation depth.
Favorable Faculty-to-Student Ratios
Smaller class sizes ensure you get know your professors well and secure needed academic help. Many top programs maintain ratios under 1:15.
By taking time to extensively investigate Kansas nursing colleges against the above benchmarks, you can make a wise selection fitting your talents, location and budget.
Find Nursing Schools
Join a Top-Ranked Nursing School for a Life-Changing Career!
Getting Licensed as an RN in Kansas
Becoming a registered nurse (RN) is a meaningful way to positively impact lives through compassionate patient care. With high demand for nurses statewide and competitive salaries, nursing offers a promising and respected career path.
Licensure Steps
To become a practicing RN, you must:
- Graduate from an approved nursing program in Kansas
- Pass the NCLEX-RN licensing exam and receive your license
- Renew your license every 2 years through the Kansas State Board of Nursing
Many aspiring nurses earn an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). ADN programs are often offered at community colleges, taking 2-3 years. BSN programs are available at 4-year colleges and take roughly 4 years to complete.
Some schools also offer accelerated programs or bridge programs for current licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to transition to become an RN more quickly.
In-Demand Specializations
Once licensed, many RNs pursue specializations through further schooling and certifications. Areas facing especially high growth and demand for nursing graduates in Kansas include:
- Emergency Room (ER) nursing: Fast-paced trauma care
- Intensive Care Unit (ICU): Treating critically ill patients
- Oncology nursing: Caring for cancer patients
- Obstetrics (OB/GYN) nursing: Guiding women through pregnancy/childbirth
Focusing your studies and clinical rotations boosts competence and employability in these key fields.
Job Outlook and Salaries
The job outlook for RNs statewide remains very strong. According to projections, registered nursing is among Kansas’ fastest growing occupations, with over 3,870 annual job openings on average and competitive earning potential given the cost of living in Kansas. This positive outlook makes the top 10 nursing schools in Kansas attractive options. There are over 10 accredited nursing schools in Kansas offering an associate degree in nursing or bachelor’s degree in nursing to equip students for a successful nursing career.
- Median annual wage for RNs in Kansas: $64,400
- Highest 10% earn $80,000+ per year
Salaries continually rise with experience and specialization. The Department of Nursing at Fort Hays offers MSN degrees in nursing administration or nursing education. Overall, becoming a registered nurse RN offers fantastic career opportunities to make a difference and enjoy financial stability given Kansas’ low cost of living.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Nursing Schools in Kansas
What are the admission requirements for nursing schools in Kansas?
Admission depends on the program and school. Most require a minimum high school or college GPA along with test scores from exams like the ACT or SAT. Applications ask about academic history, extracurriculars, leadership experience and your motivation for pursuing an accredited nursing degree. Competitive applicants stand out through community service hours in healthcare settings.
How do I earn a BSN degree in Kansas?
You can either enroll in a traditional 4-year BSN program or consider an accelerated program if you have a prior bachelor’s degree. There are multiple quality schools across Kansas offering both pathways to become a registered nurse. Focus your search regionally based on cost of living and campus culture fit. How long it takes to finish your nursing degree depends on your educational credentials and the structure of program you chose.
What is the process to obtain a nursing license in the state of Kansas?
After graduating from an approved RN program, apply through the Kansas State Board of Nursing website to register for the NCLEX-RN exam. This national test evaluates your nursing knowledge. Once you pass and fulfill all other criteria, the Board issues your active Kansas RN license. Renew it every two years to practice.
What types of nursing programs are offered at Kansas community colleges?
Most Kansas community colleges offer accredited LPN and ADN programs to become licensed practical nurses and registered nurses, respectively. These pathway allow earning nursing credentials at an affordable cost before entering the job market. Some colleges have agreements with 4-year schools for further RN to BSN bridge programs.
How do I choose the right nursing school and program in Kansas?
Reflect on your career goals, ideal work environment, skills strengths, budget and location preference. Use these personal factors to narrow your options, then compare specifics like curriculum focus, clinical hour requirements, BOARD exam pass rates, and student-instructor ratio to pick the best-fit nursing school matching your needs.
What are some of the top nursing schools in Kansas?
Kansas offers quality nursing education options, from community college associate degree programs to Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees at the university level. Highly-ranked options include: University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMC) Irene Ransom Bradley School of Nursing, MidAmerica Nazarene University, Baker University School of Nursing, Garden City Community College Nursing, and Emporia State University.
This sample of top schools illustrates the nursing program diversity across Kansas. Reach out for guidance in finding the right accredited nursing program for your goals!
More of the Best Nursing Schools in Kansas
|
Grade
|
University
|
Kansas Rank
|
Degree
|
|---|---|---|---|
| 83.86 | MidAmerica Nazarene University | 10 | BSN |
| 83.85 | Wichita State University | 11 | BSN |
| 83.01 | Washburn University | 12 | BSN |
| 80.99 | Kansas Wesleyan University | 13 | BSN |
| 76.61 | Newman University | 14 | BSN |
Ranking Methodology and Data Sources
- Ranking Methodology
- University Webpages
- Kansas 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
