Mississippi, known by the fitting state nickname “The Hospitality State,” is home to over 29,000 practicing registered nurses who earn an average annual salary of $63,130. With the nursing field expected to grow substantially in the coming years to meet rising healthcare needs, Mississippi will need to produce around 2,010 new registered nurses per year through 2030 to meet a projected shortage.
As registered nurses represent the largest proportion of healthcare professionals in the state, the state focuses efforts on expanding educational and training programs to ensure quality care across hospitals and medical centers. For those interested in nursing or wishing to see a list of the best nursing schools, read on for more details.
- There are 24 nursing schools in Mississippi.
- The CCNE accredits 7 nursing school(s)
- The ACEN accredits 20 nursing school(s).
- The NCLEX passing rate for BSN students in Mississippi is between 87.25% and 97.09%.
- The NCLEX passing rate for ADN students in Mississippi is between 93.65% and 100.00%.
- RNs currently employed in Mississippi are 29,140.
- RNs in Mississippi earn an average of $63,130 per year or $30.35 per hour.
- Mississippi needs 33,220 new RNs by 2030 or 2,010 new nurses per year.
Nursing Schools in Mississippi
Overview of Nursing Programs in Mississippi
There are several types of nursing degrees and programs available in Mississippi, depending on your career goals:
- 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 selecting a Mississippi nursing school, important factors to weigh include: accreditation status, NCLEX exam pass rates, cost, program formats offered (online, in-person, or hybrid), availability of scholarships and financial aid, variety of clinical rotation sites, student-to-faculty ratio, and overall job outlook.
All nursing schools and programs in Mississippi must be approved by the Mississippi Board of Nursing to achieve licensure as an LPN, RN, or APRN after graduation. They enforce rigorous nursing education standards statewide.
What Are the Best Nursing Schools in Mississippi?
#1 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
University of Mississippi Medical Center
2500 N State St, Jackson, MS - 39216-4505
6019841000
- Programs: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, APRN Certificate, Bachelor, BSN to DNP, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate, RN to BSN, RN to MSN
The University of Mississippi School of Nursing was founded in 1948, and has developed and expanded their offerings ever since. Today, their offerings are extensive. On the Bachelor’s level they offer a BSN, Early-Entry BSN, Accelerated BSN, and an RN-BSN program. On the Master’s level they offer an MSN and Post-Masters, RN-MSN, and RN-MSN Early Entry program. On the Doctoral level they offer a DNP, BSN-DNP, Post-Masters DNP Early Entry, PhD in Nursing, and BSN-PhD.
Their School of Nursing develops nurse leaders through evidence-based practice and research, innovative local partnerships, and unique community-based systems. They believe that nurses should be versatile, knowledgeable, life-long learners who are able to advocate for their patients.
The traditional BSN program admits students annually in the fall, though the RN-BSN admits students for the spring, summer and fall semesters. For master’s programs the application deadlines and enrollment times vary based on program concentration. The University of Mississippi's nursing program boasts a strong faculty with a diversity of skill and experience, as well as state-of-the-art equipment for their students.
#2 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Mississippi University for Women
College of Nursing and Health Sciences
- 1100 College Street, Columbus, MS - 39701
- (662) 329-4750
- Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: APRN Certificate, Associate, Bachelor, BSN to DNP, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate, RN to BSN
The Mississippi University for Women offers a 4-year BSN program in addition to an Advanced Placement RN to BSN program, ideal for registered nurses who are interested in advancing their nursing careers. Though the school’s name implies that it offers single-sex education, since 1982 men have been welcome to attend.
The school’s BSN program focuses on preparing students to be skilled leaders who are agents for change in illness prevention and patient care. Those who graduate from the program will have a comprehensive educational foundation that opens the doors to opportunities for further study, such as a master’s degree in nursing.
The BSN program is aware of the continually changing world, and places a focus on the prevention of illness, maintenance of health, and a responsibility for managing long-term and terminal disruptions to health. Additionally, the Mississippi University of Women emphasizes the nurse’s role as a client advocate and an important liaison on healthcare teams. Students can enroll in the summer, as well as in the fall.
#3 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
University of Southern Mississippi
- 118 College Drive # 0001, Hattiesburg, MS - 39406-0001
- (601) 266-1000
- Programs: Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: APRN Certificate, Bachelor, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate, RN to BSN, RN to MSN
The University of Southern Mississippi has multi-level nursing programs within their CCNE accredited College of Nursing and Health Professions. They offer a 4-year BSN program, an online RN to BSN program, as well as various programs on the master’s and doctorate levels. On the master’s level they offer nursing degrees with different specializations, including Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. On the doctorate level, USM offers nursing degrees with concentrations on clinical nursing, leadership, and anesthesia. The master’s level concentrations are applicable to the doctorate level as well.
The College of Nursing and Health Professions places a strong emphasis on innovative and evidence-based learning and teaching. USM has cultivated an academically robust nursing school that challenges its students with ethical and legal implications, professionalism, research, and leadership. The program also has a simulation lab, giving students hands-on experiences with high-fidelity mannequins.
Students can enroll in the fall, though eligible transfer students can enroll in the spring.
#4 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Mississippi College
- 200 South Capitol Street, Clinton, MS - 39058
- (601) 925-3000
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor, RN to BSN
Mississippi College is a private Christian institution in Clinton, MS. It offers a CCNE accredited BSN program, an accelerated BSN program, an online RN to BSN program, as well as an online MSN program. The four-year BSN track consists of 30 hours general education courses, 37 hours of nursing prerequisites, and 63 hours of nursing courses. MC’s nursing curriculum is grounded in faith-based practices, preparing students to deliver patient-centered, quality care to diverse populations.
The accelerated BSN program is ideal for those who have already completed a first undergraduate degree from an accredited college. Students who are enrolled in the accelerated track will complete the course of study in 4 semesters. The 12 month online RN to BSN program offers flexible courses in a supportive online learning environment, aiming to develop compassionate and knowledgeable nurse leaders.
The online MSN program fosters the further education of nurses, who want to earn the CNL distinction to elevate their careers and nursing capabilities. Students can apply for enrollment into the nursing programs twice a year, for the fall and spring semesters.
#5 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
William Carey University
Joseph and Nancy Fail School of Nursing
- 710 William Carey Parkway, Hattiesburg, MS - 39401
- (601) 318-6051
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor, MSN, RN to BSN
William Carey University is a private, Christian school that offers three tracks towards earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). They have a pre-licensure BSN program, LPN Advanced Placement program, and an RN to BSN program. On the graduate level, WCU offers an MSN, an MSN and MBA dual program, and a Doctor of Philosophy, which concentrates on Nursing Education and Administration.
William Carey operates on a trimester system, meaning that there are fall, winter, spring, and summer trimesters, each being 10 weeks long. WCU's BSN program takes six trimesters to complete, and students can enroll in the fall and in the spring.
The LPN Advanced Placement program is an opportunity for LPNs to strengthen their educational and career advancement. The program is part time, allowing working nurses to incorporate further education into their schedule. The part time program takes ten trimesters, or thirty months to complete. Students can enroll in the fall only. The RN-BSN program is an online program to meet the needs of working RNs and takes twelve months to complete. Students may enroll in the fall and in the spring.
#6 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Delta State University
Robert E. Smith School of Nursing
- 1003 W Sunflower Road, Cleveland, MS - 38733
- (662) 846-3000
- Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: APRN Certificate, Bachelor, BSN to DNP, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate, RN to BSN
Delta State University is a public university in Cleveland, MS, in the Mississippi Delta. Established in 1924, Delta State has blossomed into a diverse college with a plethora of offerings for its students. The Robert E. Smith School of Nursing has several programs. They offer a BSN track, in addition to the following online offerings: RN to BSN, MS in Nursing, Post-Master’s Certificate, and Doctor of Nursing Practice.
Delta State prides itself for its skilled faculty within the nursing school, who have various nursing specialities and are committed to providing high quality education in the classroom, online, as well as in clinical environments. Simulation practicals are also incorporated into the program, facilitated by their extensive Skills and Simulation Labs. These labs include a variety of mannequins, supplies and equipment, including mannequins with abdominal, heart, lung sounds, wounds, and nursing care applicability. Students may enroll in the fall and in the spring.
#7 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Alcorn State University
- 1000 ASU Dr Ste 359, Alcorn State, MS - 39096-7500
- (601) 877-6100
- Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor, MSN, Post Master's NP Certificate
Alcorn State University’s nursing department was founded in 1977 and is located in Lorman, MS. They offer an ADN program, a BSN program, as well as an MSN program. All of ASU's nursing degrees are ACEN accredited and rooted in a three-pillared foundation of scholarship, teaching, and service. The faculty at ASU is committed to fostering a tight-knit community of scholars and experts, supporting students each step of the way.
There is further emphasis on the interdisciplinary nature of the nursing role, which ASU views as both a science and an art. Students will build their education up from the humanities as well as psychological and sociological coursework before delving into nursing theory and science. ASU's campus community is vibrant and diverse, offering a collaborative environment to maximize learning and professional outcomes. Students can enroll into ASU's nursing programs in the fall, spring, or summer semesters.
Online Nursing Programs for Mississippi Students
Mississippi has strict requirements regarding out-of-state online nursing programs. Generally, nursing students must enroll in an approved in-state campus-based program to achieve initial registered nursing licensure through nursing licensure by examination in Mississippi upon graduation.
However, many Mississippi nursing schools do offer accredited online RN to BSN and MSN programs for licensed RNs looking to further their nursing education. These hybrid online nursing programs allow practicing nurses to conveniently advance their careers while meeting work and life demands.
When researching online nursing programs in Mississippi, look for options offering dedicated virtual student advising, flexible online course schedules, multiple start dates per year, generous transfer credit allowance policies, and the availability of financial assistance.
Accelerated BSN (ABSN) Programs
Accelerated BSN programs provide a fast-track option for those who hold a bachelor’s degree in another field and are looking for a career change into nursing. ABSN programs condense a traditional 4-year BSN curriculum into 12-18 intensive months of study and clinical rotations.
Typical pre-requisites include:
- Hold a qualifying bachelor’s degree with competitive GPA
- Complete necessary undergraduate science courses
Once enrolled, students undertake an rigorous curriculum covering topics like:
- Fundamentals of Nursing
- Health Assessment
- Pathophysiology
- Pharmacology
- Adult Health Nursing
- Mental Health Nursing
- Maternal Newborn Care
- Pediatric Nursing
- Community Health Nursing
Full-time clinical placements and rotations are required, often consuming multiple days per week. Strong time management skills are essential to balance intensive nursing course loads.
Following graduation and passing the NCLEX-RN exam, students become eligible for RN licensure. According to the AACN, approximately 70 percent of ABSN graduates pass the NCLEX on first attempt – a strong indicator of program quality and preparation for licensing.
RN to BSN Programs
There are multiple benefits for current Mississippi RNs holding an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or nursing diploma to consider pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree through the RN-to-BSN option. This include:
- Enhanced career advancement opportunities – Many administrative nursing roles now require a BSN credential as the entry minimum.
- Higher salary earning potential – On average, RNs holding a BSN earn approximately 20% more annually compared to peers without one.
- Development of leadership skills through additional coursework – BSN programs include classes on community health, nursing research, leadership, and nursing management to strengthen critical decision-making capabilities. This better equips nurses to coordinate teams and complex patient cases.
- Greater preparation for graduate study in nursing – A BSN meets requirements to pursue specialized Master’s in Nursing degrees, including Nurse Practitioner (NP) and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) programs.
Best RN to BSN Schools in Mississippi
RN-to-BSN programs understand the scheduling constraints facing busy working nurses. That’s why many schools offer part-time flexible program formats, including online, hybrid/blended course delivery, and evening/weekend courses convenient for shift workers. When researching RN to BSN programs in Mississippi, look for generous transfer credit allowances and credit for prior nursing coursework to maximize cost and time savings.
Schools with dedicated nursing academic advisors can also help RGNs create custom degree roadmaps to make the most of their experience and education to date. Additional financial assistance, like nursing scholarships, helps further minimize out-of-pocket tuition costs.
Master’s in Nursing (MSN) Programs
Those with an ambition to advance into top-tier nursing roles like Nurse Practitioner (NP), Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM), Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) or Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) will require a Master’s in Nursing (MSN) degree.
Common MSN specializations offered at Mississippi graduate nursing schools include:
- Nurse Practitioner (NP) – Become licensed to provide advanced clinical care, diagnose conditions, and prescribe medications in a specialty like adult-gerontology, family, pediatric or psychiatric mental health nursing.
- Nursing Administration – Gain expertise in nursing management, leadership, budgeting and interdisciplinary collaboration. Prepare for department head or executive director roles.
- Nursing Informatics – Combine technological prowess with clinical insight. Learn how to design, implement and leverage electronic health records (EHRs) and clinical decision support systems to improve care delivery and outcomes.
In addition to outstanding undergraduate academics, one year of bedside registered nursing experience boosts NP program admission competitiveness. When researching MSN programs, look for proper accreditation, flexible delivery formats (including online/hybrid options) and experienced teaching faculty who also maintain active clinical practices.
Undergraduate coursework in statistics is a common MSN prerequisite, as nursing graduate curriculums ground concepts in aggregated sciences and evidence-based practice. Both full-time and part-time MSN tracks spanning 2-3 years of study are available to accommodate student needs after completing core nursing graduate coursework and passing national advanced practice certification exams.
Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs
Nurse practitioners (NPs) are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) that provide high-level clinical care in both primary care and specialty settings like adult-gerontology, pediatrics, women’s health, mental health, and more.
Compared to Physician Assistants (PA), NPs focus more holistically on disease prevention, health education, and helping patients deeply understand conditions. NPs conduct health assessments, order diagnostic tests, make diagnoses, prescribe medications/treatments, coordinate care teams, and refer patients to specialists as needed.
Best NP Schools in Mississippi
In addition to rigorous graduate-level classroom academics, NP students complete 500–1,000 hours of advanced clinical rotations under an experienced provider mentor to build decision-making and diagnostic skills within their specialty concentration.
Full-time MSN NP programs take approximately 2 years post-bachelor’s to complete. Alternatively part-time enrollment options allow currently employed RNs to continue working while advancing their education over 3-5 years. Post-master’s NP certificates are another option for nurses who already hold an MSN degree to receive additional specialist training.
All NP graduates must pass national advanced practice certification exams through either the ANCC or AANP to obtain APRN licensure for clinical practice under regulated scope-of-practice requirements at the state level. Continuing doctoral collaboration, like with a physician or experienced NP, is also needed as many states including Mississippi have restricted autonomous practice regulations currently requiring this layer of supervision for new NPs.
The rewarding NP career path offers RNs a meaningful way to expand their impact caring for patients while benefiting from increased earning potential and advancement opportunities. The BLS reports nurse practitioners nationally earn approximately $125,000 per year on average.
Doctoral Nursing Programs (DNP & PhD)
For nurses seeking the highest levels of clinical leadership or academic expertise, two main doctorate in nursing pathways exist:
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
The practice- and clinically-focused terminal degree for nursing professionals. DNP-prepared nurses are eligible for advanced practice registered nursing (APRN) licensure and specialized roles like Nurse Practitioner (NP), Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM), Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). DNP curriculums blend DNP and MSN graduate coursework, culminating with a practice-based capstone project.
PhD in Nursing
The research-focused academic pathway to nursing professor and administrative careers. PhD-prepared nurses actively contribute new knowledge to better guide evidence-based practice, teaching the next generation of nurses. Dissertation research is a central component of PhD in Nursing programs, which prepare graduates to publish findings in academic nursing journals.
When researching nursing doctoral programs in Mississippi, look for faculty expertise aligning with personal research interests for PhD-bound students, availability of professor mentorship, residencies or externships providing practical leadership experience and funding/scholarship opportunities to help offset tuition costs.
Benefits of Becoming a Nurse in Mississippi
There are many appealing reasons to start your nursing career in Mississippi, including:
High Demand – Mississippi is experiencing a major nursing shortage. According to projections from the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning (IHL), the state will require nearly 2,150 new nursing graduates per year by 2025 to keep pace with growing healthcare demands of an aging population. Yet annual program capacity currently graduates approximately 1,000 total nurses. This leaves over a 50% annual shortfall in the statewide supply of new registered nurses.
Competitive Nursing Salaries – As nursing demand rises faster than supply of new grads entering the workforce, competitive salaries and benefits are used to attract talent. The average registered nurse earns approximately $63,000 in Mississippi, which is on par with national norms, per the BLS. Experienced nurses and those holding advanced certifications or graduate degrees earn higher pay.
Variety of Work Environments – The breadth of healthcare networks across Mississippi means nursing graduates have options to launch their career from bustling urban hospital settings to more intimate rural health clinics. Specialize over time in your practice area of choice – from pediatrics, to surgery, public health and more.
How to Earn Your Mississippi Nursing License
To become a practicing nurse Mississippi, candidates must:
1. Graduate from an Approved RN Nursing Program
All candidates for RN licensure must graduate from a state board of nursing approved Associate’s, Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in nursing program. Once issued, the registered nursing license must be renewed every two years
2. Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
Within 90 days of completing an accredited nursing program in Mississippi, candidates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam. This computerized test administered by Pearson VUE assesses candidate readiness to deliver safe entry-level nursing care.
3. Maintain an Active RN License
Mississippi nursing licenses must be renewed every 2 years, along with completing continued education credits. Certain certifications like Basic Life Support (BLS) may also need to be kept current.
Finding the Right Nursing School in Mississippi
With over 25 nursing programs statewide across public universities, private colleges and community colleges, prospective students have options when researching where to apply.
Here are top evaluation criteria to weigh:
Accreditation
Carefully validate that any nursing program under consideration holds proper accreditation through either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). This ensures rigorously validated standards for nursing education and training are met. For example, Mississippi Delta Community College’s nursing program has ACEN accreditation, certifying its quality.
As you evaluate options from the 2024 best nursing schools in Mississippi, make sure the nursing program is also approved by the Mississippi State Board of Nursing.
NCLEX Pass Rates
NCLEX testing metrics offer a quality indicator reflecting how well nursing programs prepare candidates for licensure. Look for consistent pass rates at or above state or national averages.
Tuition Costs + Scholarship Availability
Compare baseline tuition rates across prospective schools, weighing costs per academic year and total program estimates. Also research what nursing scholarships, grants, and external funding opportunities are accessible to defray expenses. Exploring signing bonuses and tuition reimbursement programs from local healthcare employers is another avenue to reduce costs.
The Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program also offers up to 85% loan repayment assistance for nurses working at eligible critical shortage facilities.
Clinical Rotation Opportunities
Clinical placements throughout Mississippi provide invaluable real-world patient care experience across diverse settings – from major hospitals to local clinics and community health organizations. Look for schools partnering with a variety of local healthcare institutions to maximize training variety across specializations critical for new nurses.
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
While online components allow larger nursing class sizes, sufficient access to experiential learning and one-on-one instructor attention remains vital. Lower student-to-faculty ratios ensure adequate supervision, especially regarding clinical practicums and nursing labs. This maximizes student support needed when learning challenging new healthcare skills.
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Getting Licensed as an RN in Mississippi
Licensure Steps
To practice as an RN, candidates must:
1. Graduate from Approved Program
Schools in Mississippi offer associate’s degree nursing (ADN) and bachelor’s of science in nursing (BSN) programs that lead to an RN license in the state. Both associate in nursing (AN) and associate of science in nursing (ASN) degrees allow graduates to sit for the licensure exam and begin working as a registered nurse. Mississippi has over 25 board of nursing-approved RN programs.
2. Pass the NCLEX-RN
Apply for RN licensure and successfully pass the NCLEX-RN exam administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN)
3. Renew License Every 2 Years
Maintain active Mississippi RN licensure through timely renewal cycles every two years. Stay current on continued education credits.
In-Demand Specializations
With pressing needs for talent across most nursing practice areas today in Mississippi, new RN grads enjoy strong prospects of finding initial employment in chosen specializations.
Yet several key nursing environments are experiencing particularly high growth currently:
- ICU/Critical Care – Care for Critically ill patients requiring complex, urgent interventions.
- Emergency Department – Fast-paced environment, handling incoming trauma cases.
- OB/GYN – Deliver babies and care for mothers across pregnancy.
- Oncology – Help cancer patients manage pain, treatments.
Nurses can also further specialize over time through future certifications, special graduate degree programs (like nurse practitioner tracks) or focused work experience.
Job Outlook and Salaries
The latest figures from the Mississippi IHL project over 2,150 new registered nurse job openings annually statewide through 2025. Candidates willing to work in rural areas may find most plentiful opportunities balanced with cost of living advantages.
The average Mississippi registered nurse earns approximately $63,000 per year, aligned with national trends, via the BLS. Competitive salaries and sign-on incentives will likely continue rising as demand outpaces RN supply projections moving forward.
In an rewarding profession filled with meaningful work, nursing offers promising career prospects for incoming graduates across Mississippi.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Nursing Schools in Mississippi
What are the best nursing schools in Mississippi for 2024?
Some of the top nursing schools in Mississippi for 2024 include the University of Mississippi Medical Center, the University of Southern Mississippi, Mississippi University for Women, William Carey University, Delta State University, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, and Alcorn State University. These schools offer a range of nursing programs from associate degrees to master’s degrees.
What are some of the top associate degree in nursing (ADN) programs in Mississippi?
Some of the top community colleges in Mississippi that offer associate degree in nursing (ADN) programs include Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, Northwest Mississippi Community College, Pearl River Community College, East Mississippi Community College, and Hinds Community College. These 2-year ADN programs prepare students to become registered nurses.
Is Mississippi part of the enhanced Nursing Licensure Compact?
Yes, Mississippi is part of the enhanced Nursing Licensure Compact (eNLC) which allows registered nurses and licensed practical/vocational nurses to have one multistate license that allows practice in their home state of Mississippi as well as other compact states. Graduating from a Mississippi state board of nursing approved nursing program is required.
Why are school rankings important for nursing majors?
When choosing a nursing program, school rankings provide useful information about the quality and reputation of different nursing schools. Rankings consider factors like admissions selectivity, graduation rates, faculty credentials, research activity, and student satisfaction. Highly ranked nursing schools typically have excellent passing rates on the NCLEX-RN exam as well. Looking at top 10 nursing school rankings helps identify programs with a proven track record of preparing students for successful nursing careers. However, students should also consider fit and affordability when selecting a nursing program.
What types of nursing programs and degrees are available in Mississippi?
Mississippi is home to over 25 accredited nursing programs and degrees across universities, community colleges, and hospitals. The state offers several pathways to becoming a registered nurse (RN) with a license in Mississippi.
RN programs in Mississippi include two-year associate degree nursing (ADN) programs, traditionally spanning four semesters of nursing courses. The nursing curriculum focuses on the fundamentals of nursing practice through semesters of medical/surgical, pediatrics, obstetrics, and other specialized training. Four semesters prepare students for nursing licensure exams and professional practice.
More of the Best Nursing Schools in Mississippi
|
Grade
|
University
|
Mississippi Rank
|
Degree
|
|---|---|---|---|
| 88.66 | University of Southern Mississippi | 4 | BSN |
| 88.57 | William Carey University | 5 | BSN |
| 88.13 | Alcorn State University | 6 | BSN |
| 87.25 | Delta State University | 7 | BSN |
Ranking Methodology and Data Sources
- Ranking Methodology
- University Webpages
- Mississippi 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
