Nicknamed the Cornhusker State, Nebraska is home to over 1.9 million people residing primarily on the Great Plains. With over 20,000 registered nurses currently employed and earning an average salary of $69,850 per year, Nebraska has a growing need for qualified nursing professionals to fill over 29,000 new registered nurse positions by 2030. This increasing demand highlights the value of identifying and evaluating the best nursing school programs available to Nebraskans.
The Nebraska State Board of Nursing oversees RN licensure and approvals of statewide nursing programs, while various private, public, and technical colleges offer accredited training options spanning from traditional BSN programs to master’s degrees in nursing. To help you make your choice, this guide highlights the top nursing schools in Nebraska.
- There are 18 nursing schools in Nebraska.
- The CCNE accredits 7 nursing school(s)
- The ACEN accredits 12 nursing school(s).
- The NCLEX passing rate for BSN students in Nebraska is between 80.27% and 95.91%.
- The NCLEX passing rate for ADN students in Nebraska is between 64.65% and 91.09%.
- RNs currently employed in Nebraska are 20,660.
- RNs in Nebraska earn an average of $69,850 per year or $33.58 per hour.
- Nebraska needs 29,810 new RNs by 2030 or 1,700 new nurses per year.
Nursing Schools in Nebraska
Overview of Nursing Programs in Nebraska
Nebraska offers nursing degrees spanning from a basic certified nursing assistant (CNA) credential up to a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or Nursing PhD. Common nursing programs 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.
Top specializations like nursing practitioner (NP) or certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) require a Master’s degree. Nursing candidates aiming for academic or research roles pursue Doctoral programs.
When weighing nursing schools in Nebraska, important aspects include:
- State board nursing license exam pass rates
- Respected program accreditation
- Variety of local clinical training sites
- Hands-on learning opportunities and small class sizes
- Career guidance and job search preparation
- Faculty expertise and research
- Access to labs/simulation technology
- Student scholarships and financial aid
What Are the Best Nursing Schools in Nebraska?
#1 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Creighton University
2500 California Plaza, Omaha, NE - 68178
(402) 280-2700
- Programs: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Nurse Practitioner, CNL, Family Nurse Practitioner, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, APRN Certificate, Bachelor, BSN to DNP, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate
The nursing program at Creighton University in downtown Omaha is praiseworthy ranked high in the state of Omaha. This private, Jesuit institution was founded by the Society of Jesus in 1878. For more than 60 years, Creighton has been preparing nurses via their highly-rated robust education with hands-on experience in nursing clinicals and a preceptorship. Students master the knowledge and skills needed for the challenging profession. In the College of Nursing, they learn to develop intellectual acumen along with the spiritual values of the Jesuit tradition. The school offer programs at a bachelor’s (BSN), master’s (MSN) and doctorate (DNP) as well as with a variety of post-graduate APRN and a post-master’s NP certificate.
Undergraduate programs – in addition to the traditional BSN, the ABSN is the fact-track option for faster degree completion in twelve months. It is one of the country’s first program of this kind, inaugurated in 1975. Students seeking a BSN enjoy exceptional hands-on learning experiences in multiple specialties at clinical sites such CHI Health, Methodist Health System, Children’s Hospital and Medical Center, and community-based sites.
Graduate programs – Experiencing the same superior facilities and renowned faculty of the undergraduate program, students seeking a graduate degree are trained to take on an active role in delivery quality healthcare and shaping public health policy. They may elect to become educators or nursing professionals. For example, the MSN provides advanced knowledge and skills for success in any healthcare environment. They can also pursue an APRN certificate, BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP. At the graduate level, students analyze theoretical concepts from nursing to qualify for advanced nursing practice in the provision and improvement of healthcare. They go on to assume leadership roles in designing, managing and implementing quality, cost-effective, and innovative services in a variety of healthcare settings.
#2 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
University of Nebraska Medical Center
- 42nd & Dewey Ave, Omaha, NE - 68198-7815
- (402) 559-4000
- Programs: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing, Women's Health Nurse Practitioner
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, Bachelor, BSN to DNP, BSN to PhD, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate
University of Nebraska Medical Center is located in Omaha, Nebraska. Â UNMC is focused on educating healthcare professionals, from nurses, to pharmacists, to dentists. Â They offer a traditional BSN program, an accelerated BSN program for students with a prior bachelor's degree, an an RN to BSN program, which can be completed either full-time or part-time.
All levels of undergraduate and graduate nursing programs are available at the University of Nebraska Medical Center on five campuses. The public institution in Omaha was founded in 1869 and chartered as a medical college in 1881. It has been part of the University of Nebraska System since 1902. It now comprises a hospital, dental college, pharmacy college, college of nursing, and college of medicine along with the newer colleges of public health and allied health professions. Graduates become nurses, pharmacists, and dentists. The College of Nursing is known as a culture of nursing leadership with a focus on personal, professional, and scholarly growth. The learning environment is state of the art within a world-class science center. In fact, UMC has connections with over one hundred healthcare institutions in the state. Students therefore are exposed to a variety of experiences.
Undergraduate programs – whether you want to study full or part time, there is a program for you at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Students enjoy simulation using virtual reality, team-based learning, e-learning, and “flipped classrooms”. They can attend several campuses for their coursework. The undergraduate BSN accommodates students who need flexibility. Program options include the traditional BSN on all five campuses. The accelerated BSN is for those already holding a bachelor’s degree. In one year of intensive study, student can become RNs. The RN to BSN is done online for those who are RNs, have an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Diploma in Nursing. Courses are offered exclusively online with completion expected in two semesters.
Graduate programs – Students will study on all five campuses in Nebraska with numerous healthcare settings offered for their clinical hours such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, physician offices, nursing homes, and other facilities. Nationally recognized teachers, researchers and practitioners comprise the exceptional faculty. It is a top-rated program in the US. The programs are in a hybrid format with individual and group online instruction for convenience and flexibility. Among the graduate study options are the PhD degree (post-masters or BSN to PhD), the DNP program (post-master's DNP or BSN-to-DNP degree), and the MSN and PMC program (offered as a BSN-to-MSN degree or post master’s certificate).
#3 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health
- 720 North 87th Street, Omaha, NE - 68114-2852
- (402) 354-7000
- Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor, BSN to DNP, MSN, MSN to DNP
Nebraska Methodist College is located in Omaha, Nebraska. Â Their college educates healthcare professionals, from nurses to respiratory therapists to occupational therapists. Â Their nursing program is extensive, offering everything from BSN programs to DNP programs. Â They offer a traditional BSN program, an accelerated BSN program, an RN to BSN program and an LPN to BSN program.
The Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing and Allied Health is a private Methodist college located in Omaha that focuses on degrees in healthcare. It was founded in 1891 and now offers the latest technologies in state-of-the-art labs. Graduates become nurses or other healthcare professions such as respiratory and occupational therapists. The mission of the College is to send students out into the community as healthcare experts who offer human caring, a creative intellect, and skilled practice. The hallmark of their education is the Teaching the Meaning of Care partnership with the Nebraska healthcare system.
Undergraduate programs – the traditional BSN is offered along with an accelerated version, an RN to BSN and an LPN to BSN. The BSN is a CCNE-accredited four-year program offered on campus. It comprises three semesters of general education courses and five semesters of nursing skills and clinical classes. Students may enroll directly out of high school or transfer previously earned college-level credits. Students may opt for the fast-track 12-month accelerated ACE.
Graduate programs – at the graduate level, the College of Nursing offers several MSN paths: nurse education, nurse executive, nurse informatics, nurse educator, care coordinator. All majors have an RN to MSN program. At the doctoral level, students can specialize in Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner or Specialist. In addition, the College has an APRN to DNP program and an MSN/MHP to DNP in Public Health Policy. Each has their own mission and credit requirements. As needed, students acquire the requisite knowledge and skills to proceed in their professional careers. Students can attend full or part time, which requires four to five years of study.
#4 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Clarkson College
- 101 S 42nd St, Omaha, NE - 68131-2739
- (402) 552-3100
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor
Clarkson College is located in Omaha, Nebraska. Â Clarkson College is devoted entirely to educating healthcare professionals. Â Their nursing program was established in 1888. Â They offer a BSN program and an RN to BSN program. Â The RN to BSN program is offered entirely online. Â They are also the only college in Omaha to offer a Nurse Anesthesia program.
Clarkson College was always a school of nursing; in fact, it was the first in the state of Nebraska. Founded in 1888, the College was dedicated to healthcare professions. The program has since expanded and the private College is now associated with a commitment to excellence. Applicants from across the country seek the program’s superior education and opportunities to excel in their nursing careers. The goal of the School of Nursing is to prepare highly skilled and well-trained nurses through faculty-led coursework and clinical hours.
Undergraduate programs – the core programs include the BSN, RN to BSN and LPN to BSN. Of note, the Nurse Anesthesia program is the only one in Omaha. Graduates have the enhanced knowledge to enter the nursing field as a nurse practitioner, nursing instructor, administrator or researcher. The programs are done on campus and on line with accelerated study options. Classes are small affording individual attention. The focus of the curriculum is on core courses, emphasizing evidence-based practice, leadership, and population health. Students undergo a solid foundation in science and the humanities before undertaking their specific requirements. The LPN to BSN program is for licensed practical nurses who want to advance their education and become RNs. It can be done full or part time. (Most coursework is done on campus.) Clinical hours are mandatory.
Graduate programs – Along with the traditional MSN, the School of Nursing offers an RN to MSN track. Working nurses enjoy the online curriculum and complete hands-on competency checks on campus. The specialties are numerous depending upon the student’s career goals: Healthcare Administration, Nursing Education, Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner or Family Nurse Practitioner. Graduates learn to design and implement healthcare strategies and lead organizations. The Doctor of Nursing Practice in Nurse Anesthesia combines an academic curriculum with extensive clinical practice. The DNP curriculum includes courses in leadership, healthcare policy and the evidence-based process to navigate the complexities of healthcare and improve patient outcomes. All programs entail critical thinking, professional communication, and technological expertise.
#5 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Bryan Health College
Bryan College of Health Sciences
- 1535 S 52nd St, Lincoln, NE - 68506
- (402) 481-3801
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor
Located in the Midwest heartland of the US, Bryan College of Health Sciences in Lincoln, Nebraska is devoted to producing educated healthcare professionals – from nurses to sonographers. Undergraduate and graduate degrees are offered on campus, online, or a hybrid option. The technology, including the simulation lab, is state of the art to provide advanced teaching methods. There is a strong clinical emphasis and multiple hands-on opportunities to prepare graduates for real-life conditions. In addition, students will appreciate job shadowing, the platinates and cadaver labs, and the science and skills laboratories. Clinical hours take place in patient care settings and labs to build skills and confidence. Of note, Bryan offers the most clinical hours of all institutions in the state. The goal is exposure to a diverse range of experiences in hospitals (urban and rural), day care centers, outpatient clinics, doctors’ office, retirement facilities (including assisted living), palliative and hospice care, rehab and long-term facilities, occupational therapy centers, pediatrics, schools and university student health programs. They may work in county services or home healthcare.
Undergraduate programs – a degree from Bryan College of Health Sciences School of Nursing prepares students for success in a wide variety of positions. They will be able to build a career in acute care, hospitals, surgery centers, clinics, long-term and home health, to name a few. Clinical hours are extensive at 1,215 for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (the highest number for any BSN program in the state of Nebraska).
Graduate programs - Â the MSN, RN to MSN, and EdD degrees prepare degree holders for a variety of leadership roles in education and practice. The MSN can be done while working full time. Students earn 36 credits in a distance learning format with synchronous video meetings for each course. It is conducted 75% fully online. The two tracks are nurse educator and nurse leadership. Upon completion of the MSN, students find employment opportunities as faculty, nurse managers, directors of nursing, care coordinators among other careers. Students may elect the BSN to education Doctorate in Nursing and Health Professions Education, earning 54 credits via the same program as the MSN. They enjoy real-time engagement with faculty and other students. It is a leading program in the country that is both flexible and affordable. In addition, the school offers a Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice with 3,000 clinical hours.
#6 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Union College
- 3800 S 48th Street, Lincoln, NE - 68506
- (402) 486-2600
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor, LPN to BSN
Union College is located in Lincoln, Nebraska. Â Their nursing program has been in existence since 1896 - it is the oldest BSN program in the state of Nebraska. Â They offer a traditional BSN program, an LPN to BSN track and an RN to BSN track. Â They have also began to offer an early admission for new college freshmen.
Students seeking a nursing degree in the state of Nebraska have the Union College of Nursing in Lincoln. The school was founded in 1896 and now offers the oldest BSN program in the state. The nursing program boasts of small class sizes and technology-advanced simulation labs. The spectacular simulation center offers students the opportunity to practice in a hospital environment with patient volunteers. A group of nursing students each month with assisting physicians attends an outreach community program for the homeless. They also can elect to visit a developing nature to run a medical clinic in a remote area.
Undergraduate programs – The College offers a traditional four-year BSN, LPN to BSN track, and an RN to BSN option. Nurses with an associate in applied science or a diploma in nursing are eligible for the latter. The programs address the growing need for nurses in the years to come. The exceptional faculty has a mission to produce well-trained, qualified candidates. The school is known for its spiritual values and a strong support system. Each student receives special attention and enjoys the healthcare expertise offered. Graduates have the solid foundation to succeed in the healthcare field. They come to make a difference in patients’ lives and the personal reward it affords. Transfer students are welcome. Students can become registered nurses, nurse practitioners, or nurse anesthetists. a broad group of positions in nursing is expected as well as possible graduate study.
#7 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Nebraska Wesleyan University
- 5000 St Paul Ave, Lincoln, NE - 68504-2794
- (402) 466-2371
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor, MSN
#8 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
College of St Mary
- 7000 Mercy Rd., Omaha, NE - 68106
- (402) 399-2400
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
College of Saint Mary is located in Omaha, Nebraska. Â They offer two BSN programs. Â One program is a three-year program, which is the only three-year program in the state of Nebraska. Â The other program is a traditional four-year program. Â The summer program does require classes over the summer, making it back-to-back semesters.
Online Nursing Programs for Nebraska Students
At this time, Nebraska does not approve purely online nursing degrees to qualify graduates for initial RN licensure. Nursing students within the state should enroll in traditional BSN or ADN programs offering the required in-person clinical hours.
However, the College of Nursing at Creighton University, one of the best nursing schools in the nation, offers blended online nursing courses combined with in-person labs and clinicals at area hospitals. Nursing students also have the option to enter nursing through diploma, associate degree, and baccalaureate programs spanning several semesters of nursing coursework.
While purely online nursing degrees do not currently lead to licensure, a number of reputable RN to BSN and Master’s of Science in Nursing programs welcome existing registered nurses to advance their education fully online while working. These programs, like those offered through Nebraska Methodist College, Clarkson College, and Bryan Health College of Nursing provide flexible online options for nursing degree completion.
For initial RN licensure, students should enroll in quality ADN or BSN programs in the state. Reputable nursing and allied health colleges across the state offer blended learning with a mix of online didactic courses and in-person lab practice and clinical rotations.
Accelerated BSN (ABSN) Programs
A popular option for those with a prior Bachelor’s degree in another field, Accelerated BSN programs in Nebraska provide a fast-track into nursing. Through an intensive curriculum these nursing degrees can be earned full-time in just 12-18 months.
Key aspects of Accelerated BSNs:
- Tailored for graduates of humanities or healthcare majors from accredited universities
- Required nursing prerequisites: Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Ethics
- Minimum 3.0 nursing GPA and strong ACT/SAT scores for competitive admission
- Expect 40+ hours per week attending nursing lectures, simulations labs, writing care plans, mandatory clinical rotations
- Prepare for high-stakes nursing licensure exams upon graduation
- Tuition plus living costs often exceed $60,000+ for private accelerated nursing
Nursing students considering accelerated tracks must be deeply committed to an intensive workload. In exchange they gain RN status rapidly or progress into MSN/DNP graduate nursing ahead of those in traditional programs.
RN to BSN Programs
For current Registered Nurses, ADN-RN graduates or diploma nurses, RN to BSN completion programs represent the essential next step. Building on existing nursing skills, these flexible nursing degrees take ADN education to the next level both clinically and professionally.
Best RN to BSN Schools in Nebraska
Benefits of earning a BSN degree:
- Sets you up for top nursing jobs and higher salaries
- Fundamentally boosts patient assessment, leadership expertise
- Prepares for management, instructor or clinical roles
- Fast-tracks into graduate programs like MSN/DNP degrees
- 100% online convenience for working nurse professionals
Many RN-BSN programs in Nebraska feature generous transfer credit, distance learning with just 1-2 local requirements to graduate. Part-time online options allow practicing RNs to upgrade while working. Expect 36-60 credits over 1-2 years from associate’s to completion.
Investigate each RN to BSN program thoroughly – tuition fees vary from $17,000-30,000+ for a BSN. Most students apply for nursing scholarships or employee education benefits to progress affordably.
Master’s in Nursing (MSN) Programs
Once a BSN level Registered Nurse, ambitious students may specialize further through Master’s of Nursing tracks in Nebraska. Common Master’s pathways:
- Nurse Practitioner (NP) – Prescribe treatment as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
- Nursing and Health Systems Administration – Manage nursing units or entire healthcare facilities
- Nursing Educator – Teach next generation of clinical nurses
- Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) – Women’s reproductive health and childbirth practice
A blend of advanced coursework plus 500+ hands-on clinical hours prepares nursing students in their chosen MSN focus. Programs take approximately 2-3 years depending on enrollment status. Expect 40 credits minimum beyond the BSN is required.
Competitive GPA and nursing experience may be required depending on programs. Many feature convenient online delivery with intensive short-term campus sessions. BSN-holders with existing RN licensure can oftentimes continue working while enrolled.
Pursuing an MSN opens up increased earning potential and leadership trajectories not accessible to ADN or BSN-prepared nurses. Graduates take licensing exams in their specialty to begin advanced practice.
Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs
A perennially popular route for ambitious Bachelor’s-prepared RNs, Nebraska Nurse Practitioner programs represent around 25% of MSN specializations nationally.
These advanced clinical degrees prepare graduates to prescribe medications, diagnose patient issues, order tests and manage treatment plans. NPs boast 5-6x higher earning potential over staff nurses.
Main NP pathways in Nebraska include:
- Adult-Gerontology NP – Care for adult and elderly patients
- Family NP – Manage entire families and related health issues
- Pediatric NP – Support child development and treat young patients
- Psychiatric Mental Health NP – Counseling and mental health specialty
Typical Nurse Practitioner curriculum:
- Core advanced assessment and diagnosis courses
- Extensive pharmacology training
- Patient outcomes improvement
- Over 500 supervised clinical hours
- Average full-time 2-3 years; 3-5+ years part time
All NP graduates must pass national certification testing to receive APRN licensure permitting prescription authority. Ongoing physician collaboration also required in most states.
For RNs considering an advanced practice career improving community healthcare access, Nurse Practitioner programs in Nebraska deliver exceptional training aligned to population needs.
Doctoral Nursing Programs (DNP & PhD)
The terminal degrees in nursing – Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Nursing PhD – qualify elite practitioners for senior roles expanding the industry.
Difference Between Nursing PhD and DNP Degrees
Nursing PhDs take an academic research-intensive path to high-level faculty and clinical trial roles. Initial DNPs instead refine direct advanced clinical care or executive leadership ability.
All PhD tracks require a 70+ page dissertation contributing original research discoveries to the field. Alternately, DNP students demonstrate expansive nursing expertise through a major capstone project improving patient outcomes at partner institutions.
Both doctorates take approximately 3-7 years depending on attendance status. Substantial faculty mentorship, multidisciplinary analysis, leadership coursework combined with hundreds additional clinical hours prepare nursing graduates to enhance theory and practice standards in the field.
PhD Nursing specializations available:
- PhD Nursing Science
- PhD Nursing Practice
- BSN or MSN to PhD Bridge Programs
DNP tracks for aspiring nurse executives:
- Post-Master’s DNP Leadership
- BSN to DNP Executive Track
Benefits of Becoming a Nurse in Nebraska
Alongside deeply fulfilling patient interaction, registered nurses in Nebraska earn highly competitive salaries. As of 2022 Bureau of Labor Statistics figures, average RN pay reached over $71,000 in Nebraska with additional overtime potential.
Nebraska boasts several of the nation’s top nursing schools, including Creighton University’s College of Nursing which U.S. News and World Report ranks among the 10 best nursing schools. Undergraduate nursing programs in the state range from diploma and associate degree nursing to BSN programs. The College of Nursing at Creighton University offers one of the best BSN programs in the state.
How to Earn Your Nebraska Nursing License
Prospective nurses in the Cornhusker State must complete Board-approved degree programs, pass the NCLEX-RN exam then apply to receive state licensure allowing legal practice. Here are the main steps to earn your nursing license in Nebraska:
Earn Degree from Accredited Nursing School in Nebraska
There are over 20 colleges and universities in Nebraska that offer reputable nursing degree programs approved by the Nebraska Board of Nursing. These nursing schools in Nebraska equip students with the education to qualify for registered nursing (RN) licensure in the state.
Students can earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to initially become a licensed RN. Many schools like the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Nursing, established in 1917 as the first nursing school in Nebraska, offer both ADN and BSN nursing programs. Other top ranked nursing schools in the state include Creighton University, Clarkson College, Nebraska Methodist College, as well Bryan College of Health Sciences in Lincoln.
No matter where they earn their initial nursing degree, students at accredited nursing schools in Nebraska complete several semesters of academic coursework and clinical rotations at hospitals and healthcare facilities across the state before becoming eligible for RN licensure and beginning their nursing careers.
Pass NCLEX-RN Exam
- Application through NCSBN portal
- Comprehensive test on nursing theory and practice
- Four hours, adaptive 120-145 questions
Apply for Nursing License with Nebraska Board
- Submit fingerprints, background check
- Declaration of primary state of residence
- Pay $123 application fee^1
Renew License Every 2 Years
- Complete continuing education credits^1
- Option: Upgrade through higher nursing degree
Begin your career or advancement in nursing through Nebraska’s exceptional schools of nursing. Discover how to select the ideal program in the sections below.
Finding the Right Nursing School in Nebraska
With several undergraduate and graduate nursing programs across the Cornhusker State, discovering the best fit institution factors individual needs, academic performance and career aspirations.
Important indicators of nursing school quality:
Accreditation Status
Proper accreditation validates program quality and should be a top priority when selecting a nursing school. Crucial for confirming rigorous curriculum, teaching standards and credit transfer eligibility, nursing accreditation comes from either:
â—Ź CCNE – Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
â—Ź ACEN – Commission for Education in Nursing
Both overseen by U.S. Department of Education branches and universally recognized by top colleges and hospitals offering nursing positions.
The Nebraska Board of Nursing additionally approves qualified programs aligned to state standards – mandatory for licensure eligibility. Confirm full approval before enrolling.
Among the over 25+ nursing degrees across Nebraska nursing schools, esteemed options like the traditional BSN at UNMC College of Nursing or accelerated pathway through Nebraska Methodist College hold CCNE/State Board accreditation signaling arguably one of the best training qualities.
Top-ranked Creighton University also consistently places on annual “best nursing school” rankings, enabled partially by gold-standard CCNE accreditation. Such external oversight guarantees rigor that other colleges in Omaha may lack, impacting graduate success.
Pass Rates on Nursing Licensure Exams
All state boards publish first-time nursing license exam pass rates from local programs. High percentages indicate strong teaching practices and graduate readiness to enter practice.
Ask schools about BSN graduate outcomes through:
- NCLEX-RN exam pass rates
- Percent hired within one year
Compare against state/national averages when evaluating quality indicators.
Cost, Scholarships & Financial Aid
From affordable community college ADN to expensive private universities, total cost of nursing school varies dramatically. Leverage all options to minimize student debt.
- Complete FAFSA to access federal loans, Nebraska state grants
- Apply for nursing school scholarships
- Research Nurse Corps loan repayment eligibility
- Consider employee tuition reimbursement programs
Average BSN tuition in Nebraska runs under $40,000^2 for public universities but exceeds $100,000 at private institutions . Get clear costs plus realistic repayability when comparing top in-state selections.
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Getting Licensed as an RN in Nebraska
New nursing graduates seeking a practice license in Nebraska must successfully pass the NCLEX-RN exam then complete a state board application.
Licensure Requirements Checklist:
- Graduate from State-approved RN diploma program
- Pass NCLEX-RN exam
- Submit Board of Nursing application
- Proof of identity, age, citizenship
- Criminal background check prints
- Official school transcript
- Pay $123 application fee
- Renew license every 2 years before expiration
- Either retake NCLEX or complete nursing CEUs
In-Demand Nursing Specializations
While all skilled RNs find excellent Nebraska job opportunities, certain specialties currently have greatest demand including:
- ICU/Critical Care Nursing
- Emergency Room Nursing
- OB/GYN & Neonatal Nursing
- Oncology/Cancer Care Nursing
Target extra BSN coursework, NP specialization or niche certification toward highest need and reward areas of practice.
Salaries & Job Outlook for Nebraska RNs
The latest BLS figures reveal positive RN job growth plus strong wages across settings:
- Average Annual Salaries: $71,730 per year^3
- Projected Workforce Growth 2020-2030: 16%^3
- 75% of new nursing jobs concentrated in hospitals
RNs in Nebraska enjoy competitive pay, low stress and promising career development pathways within healthcare organizations big and small.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing Schools in Nebraska
What are the main nursing education pathways in the State of Nebraska?
The most common nursing credentials in Nebraska include LPN diplomas, Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degrees. Many options exist for aspiring nurses from practical nursing programs through advanced nursing specialties.
How long are most Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs in the State?
Among private and public universities statewide, traditional BSN curriculums generally span 4 academic years including prerequisites. Accelerated tracks for second-degree students take 12-18 months at an intensive pace. Registered Nurse to BSN bridge programs range from 1-2 years with much coursework online. Program formats fitting different needs all prepare graduates to pass RN licensing and begin impactful practice.
What are the main RN programs in Nebraska to become a registered nurse?
The primary pathways to RN licensure in Nebraska are Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs meeting State Board of Nursing standards. Many respected colleges and universities across the state offer accredited nursing curriculum preparing students to pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
What types of online nursing degree options exist through Nebraska universities?
While the State Board mandates in-person clinical hours for initial RN licensure programs, various reputable schools like UNMC, Bellevue and Clarkson Universities offer accredited online RN-to-BSN and MSN programs for current registered nurses seeking career advancement. Distance students benefit from flexible learning while continuing workplace training.
What are some of the best nursing schools in Nebraska?
Some of the top-ranked nursing schools in Nebraska include the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Nursing, Creighton University, Clarkson College, Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health, Bryan College of Health Sciences, Nebraska Wesleyan University, College of Saint Mary, Southeast Community College, and Central Community College. Most nursing schools offer ADN, BSN and graduate nursing programs.
More of the Best Nursing Schools in Nebraska
|
Grade
|
University
|
Nebraska Rank
|
Degree
|
|---|---|---|---|
| 82.09 | Nebraska Wesleyan University | 7 | BSN |
| 81.14 | College of St Mary | 8 | BSN |
| 80.27 | Midland University | 9 | BSN |
Ranking Methodology and Data Sources
- Ranking Methodology
- University Webpages
- Nebraska 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
