Nevada, the “Silver State” known for its plentiful mineral resources, is home to some of the most promising nursing schools and programs in the country. With over 24,000 registered nurses currently employed and an average salary of $88,800 per year, the outlook for nurses in Nevada is bright. In fact, the state will need nearly 30,000 new RNs by 2030 to meet growing healthcare demands.
Nevada is one of the top-ranking states for competitive nursing salaries, yet it still needs to license 1,950 new nurses per year in the coming decade. Top nursing schools in Nevada and even in Las Vegas offer prerequisite courses and robust training in healthcare essentials like nursing care best practices. When choosing a nursing program in the state like a pre-licensure BSN or associate degree in applied science in nursing, it helps to know which ones are accredited by the Nevada Board of Nursing.
- There are 12 nursing schools in Nevada.
- The CCNE accredits 5 nursing school(s)
- The ACEN accredits 7 nursing school(s).
- The NCLEX passing rate for BSN students in Nevada is between 76.27% and 92.95%.
- The NCLEX passing rate for ADN students in Nevada is between 83.10% and 96.20%.
- RNs currently employed in Nevada are 24,590.
- RNs in Nevada earn an average of $88,800 per year or $42.69 per hour.
- Nevada needs 29,630 new RNs by 2030 or 1,950 new nurses per year.
Nursing Schools in Nevada
Overview of Nursing Programs in Nevada
There are a wide range of options for Nevada nursing schools and programs. Popular options include Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), accelerated BSN, RN to BSN, Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs. Here’s a detailed description of each of the programs:
- 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 different nursing schools in Nevada, key factors to consider include:
- Accreditation: Ensure the nursing program is accredited by either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). This guarantees quality standards are met.
- Program Types: Decide if a shorter ADN or longer BSN best fits your needs. Accelerated options allow earning a BSN rapidly. Consider MSN/DNP for advanced roles.
- Cost/Scholarships: Compare tuition rates and availability of financial assistance. Consider RN to BSN programs for current RNs.
- Licensing/Certifications: Passing the NCLEX-RN exam is required to obtain a nursing license from the Nevada State Board of Nursing. Consider future certification options.
What Are the Best Nursing Schools in Nevada?
#1 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
University of Nevada-Reno
North Virginia Street, Reno, NV - 89557
(775) 784-1110
- Programs: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, CNL, Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: APRN Certificate, Bachelor, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate
If you are looking to expand your career as a nurse in one of the best and oldest nursing schools in the state of Nevada then the University of Nevada is the best choice for you. The Orvis School of Nursing is preparing its nurses to become not only healthcare professionals but also esteemed leaders. The school aims to promote the health and well-being of the people of Nevada and the nation through excellence in nursing education, discovery, and engagement. The institutional goals of this school focus on creating a better and richer experience for the students that is accessible, affordable, and doesn’t compromise on the quality of knowledge and skills.
Orvis School of Nursing houses state-of-the-art simulation labs that have high fidelity manikins to mimic real-life scenarios. What’s more, is that the labor simulator here is probably one of its kind in the region. From running virtual reality scenarios to mimicking clinical situations as they would appear in the hospitals, these simulation labs prepare students for their clinical rotations as well as for when they go to work as Registered Nurses.
The school also provides Pre-Nursing group advising sessions for prospective students, gives out scholarships to those in need, and it also has its own Student Nurses’ Association so that students are always a part of a community of their own.
Undergraduate Programs - BSN Programs: This school provides both a traditional 16 month BSN program and the 12-month Accelerated BSN program. In addition to this, they also have RN to BSN programs that provide graduates of an associate degree with a chance to obtain their BSN degree.
Graduate Programs - The graduate programs at the University of Nevada-Reno are aimed at licensed nurses who want to take a step further and become nursing leaders, educators, policymakers, and change agents. The MSN programs like Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Leader, Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, etc. offer specialization courses to nurses who seek them to become advanced practitioners.
An Advanced Graduate (Post-Master’s) Certificate is also awarded to students in these fields should they choose to pursue it.
There are also two options for the DNP program that include BSN to DNP option and the MSN to DNP program.
#2 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
University of Nevada-Las Vegas
- 4505 S Maryland Pky, Las Vegas, NV - 89154
- (702) 895-3011
- Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: APRN Certificate, Bachelor, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate
The University of Nevada, School of Nursing prepares both its graduate and undergraduate nurses to meet global healthcare needs. The school has been actively preparing its students to face all kinds of healthcare scenarios. The alumni of the University of Nevada have proven themselves to be competent in evidence-based education, are constantly updating themselves in terms of research and practice, and have gone on to work at some of the most esteemed healthcare facilities worldwide.
The Clinical Simulation Centre of Las Vegas (CSCLV) located at the Shadow Lane Campus allows nursing students to perfect all kinds of clinical skills in high fidelity manikins in a controlled environment. The CSCLV offers standardized patient interactions, simulations, and surgical labs by creating different specific hospital environments such as ER, Delivery Room, Surgical Suites, etc. Here, students’ actions and the manikins’ responses are monitored and recorded thereby allowing students to observe their actions and constantly better themselves.
Another innovative program that UNLV offers to nursing students is the Continuing Education program designed to enhance their advanced skills and also empower them.
Undergraduate programs - Traditional BSN: This program prepares nursing students for any entry-level nursing practice as well as future graduate study.
RN-BSN: This fast-track degree is designed for Registered Nurses who want to earn a bachelor’s degree in Nursing. The course is 1 year long if taken on full time, and it also gives the students an option to take 9 credit hours at the graduate level if they wish to apply to their graduate program as well.
Accelerated Second Degree Bachelor in Nursing: It is offered to students who currently hold a non-nursing bachelor's or graduate degree. The course is 13 months long if taken full-time with no breaks in between.
Graduate Programs - For nurses who want to further advance their nursing education and become nurse leaders, the school of nursing also offers a multitude of MSN, DNP, and Advanced Graduate Certificates. These programs are designed to bring out the nursing leaders in post-graduate students so that they can pave the way for the betterment of the nursing fraternity as a whole.
The school of nursing offers Master of Science in Nursing courses such as Nurse Educator, Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).
It also offers two Doctorate programs Doctor of Nursing Practice, and Doctor of Philosophy of Nursing.
There are also multiple advanced graduate certificates (Post Master’s) like Advanced Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education, Advanced Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for the FNP, and more.
#3 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Nevada State University
- 1300 Nevada State Drive, Henderson, NV - 89002
- (702) 992-2000
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, Bachelor
Nevada State University’s School of Nursing has devoted itself to supporting nursing students as they become compassionate nurses who provide quality care to both patients and their families.
Nevada State College has partnered with a variety of hospitals, clinics, as well as community healthcare facilities to provide its students with valuable clinical, lab, and simulation opportunities to perfect their skills and knowledge.
As per the alumni, affordable tuition, flexible schedule, online study options, and a welcoming faculty are some of the few factors that set Nevada State College apart from other nursing institutions. Some of the courses are fully online whereas some require on-campus and on-site training, this allows students, especially working students to work around their jobs, family life, and other responsibilities while still getting an unparalleled quality education.
You can choose to apply to this top-ranking college in the Spring for both full-time and part-time pre-licensure nursing programs.
Undergraduate Programs - Bachelor of Science in Nursing: The BSN program at Nevada State College provides its students with all the information and knowledge necessary to become competent RNs once they pass their NCLEX-RN examination. There are three options or tracks to choose from.
The BSN full-time track is the traditional program designed for students who can make a full-time commitment to their classes; degree achievement for full-time students usually takes 5 semesters, including summer.
The part-time track is for students who prefer to take part-time classes; they are usually awarded a BSN degree after completion of 10 semesters, including summers.
The post-licensure BSN track is for students who are already working as RN or have an ADN degree but do not hold a BSN degree. This 100% online course allows students to continue their work while studying.
#4 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Roseman University of Health Sciences
- 11 Sunset Way, Henderson, NV - 89014
- (702) 990-4433
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor
Roseman University of Health Sciences is located in Henderson, Nevada. The school began as a school of pharmacy in 1999, and has evolved into a university for health professionals. They offer a BSN program, an accelerated BSN program and an RN to BSN program. The accelerated program is designed for students either with a prior bachelor's degree or at least 65 college credits.
Online Nursing Programs for Nevada Students
Beyond quality campus-based programs, many accredited nursing schools and online nursing programs in Nevada leverage technology to offer flexible remote coursework options as well. These top nursing schools and programs allow nursing students to balance work, families, and other considerations while progressing through a rigorous curriculum aligned with state licensing standards.
Students still complete essential in-person clinical rotation requirements, but remote lectures and assignments provide convenience without compromising on education quality from these accredited nursing programs meeting Nevada Board of Nursing approval. Aspiring nurses can feel confident enrolling in reputable online programs as an alternative pathway to launch their careers in improving community health across the state.
Accelerated BSN (ABSN) Programs
Accelerated BSN programs, or ABSN provide a fast-track option for earning a Bachelor’s degree in nursing, geared for students who already hold a Bachelor’s degree in another field. Nevada ABSN programs typically last 12-18 months.
ABSN admission requirements usually include:
- Existing Bachelor’s degree with 3.0+ GPA
- Prerequisite courses completed (anatomy, physiology, etc.)
- Competitive GRE scores
- Healthcare experience recommended
The intensive ABSN curriculum covers nursing fundamentals through advanced clinical training in a compact schedule. Programs require 500+ hands-on clinical hours arranged during the standard school week at partner medical facilities. School breaks are limited in fast-paced ABSN programs.
Successful graduates of an accredited ABSN program qualify to sit for nursing licensing exams like the NCLEX, earn an RN title, and begin working.
RN to BSN Programs
For nurses holding an Associate in Nursing (ADN) or associate’s degree, RN to BSN programs in Nevada build on prior nursing education to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree (BSN). Many RNs pursue RN to BSN programs for increased career opportunities, earning potential, and leadership skills gained with a BSN.
Best RN to BSN Schools in Nevada
Unlike most traditional BSN set-ups, online RN-to-BSN programs are often offered in a flexible format taking 1-2 years to complete part-time. This also depends on the number of general education credits transferred from an ADN program. Some Nevada schools have generous transfer policies awarding credits for many 100/200 level nursing courses already completed. Accelerated options are also available to transition diploma or ADN nurses into BSN degree nurses on an expedited timeline.
When researching RN to BSN programs, look for dedicated nursing advisors, affordable tuition rates and availability of financial aid like scholarships or nursing loan repayment assistance.
Master’s in Nursing (MSN) Programs
Nevada nursing schools offer a range of master’s of science in nursing degree options for those interested in advanced nursing practice. From on-campus to online MSN programs , specialized tracks may include:
- Nurse Practitioner (NP): Become a primary care or specialty provider in family, adult-gerontology, women’s health, pediatrics, mental health and more.
- CRNA: Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist
- Nursing Administration/Leadership: Manage nursing units or entire healthcare facilities.
MSN programs in Nevada may also offer concentrations in innovative areas like healthcare innovation, mental health nursing, and clinical nurse leadership. Research which Nevada graduate nursing program aligns best with career aspirations in delivering advanced nursing care through an MSN.
Competitive applicants for MSN programs typically hold a Bachelor’s degree with a 3.0+ GPA, strong letters of recommendation, prerequisite statistics coursework completed, and one year of work experience. MSN programs include around 500 clinical hours. Graduates take certification exams for licensure in their specialty.
Nevada needs nurse practitioners and nursing leaders. Enter an MSN program to take on greater responsibility and meaningfully impact patient outcomes.
Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs
For RNs interested in providing primary care, nurse practitioner (NP) programs grant prescriptive authority and specialization skills to diagnose, manage treatment plans, and coordinate patient-centered care autonomously. This human connection sustains nurses in a rewarding yet challenging profession.
Best NP Schools in Nevada
NP study builds on nursing fundamentals through graduate coursework and 500–1,000 supervised clinical hours that satisfy certification and state licensing requirements as advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). Students declare a patient population focus such as:
- Family/across the lifespan
- Adult-Gerontology
- Pediatrics/Neonatal
- Women’s Health
- Psychiatric Mental Health
Nevada needs NPs in both urban and rural areas. Aspiring NPs choose from flexible two-year full-time, three-year part-time, or post-master’s certificate NP formats. Ongoing physician collaboration and national certification demonstrate competency to employers. Excellent career prospects and competitive six-figure salaries reward those dedicated to making a difference through compassionate, skilled nursing practice.
Doctoral Nursing Programs (DNP & PhD)
The practice-oriented Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and research-focused Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing prepare expert clinicians and scientists to shape healthcare transformation.
The DNP delivers additional clinical expertise through 1,000 hours of immersive training to impact systems-level change and evidence-based care delivery approaches. DNP students complete a scholarly capstone project solving a clinical practice problem. This terminal degree represents the highest level of nursing practice expertise.
Those interested in academia or research should pursue a PhD in Nursing. Rigorous doctoral-level analysis trains students in testing interventions backed by data and facts versus assumptions. PhD programs also incorporate practical teaching experience.
Financial assistance toward Nevada doctoral studies may come through faculty research grants, corporate sponsorships or competitive scholarships. Weigh passion for inquiry versus patient care in choosing the right doctoral path. Both are needed to forge the future of healthcare.
Benefits of Becoming a Nurse in Nevada
Nevada offers incredible opportunities to launch and grow an impactful, well-compensated nursing career. The statewide demand for nurses continues rising with an aging population, while competitive salaries reward nursing professionals at all levels.
Nurses find rewarding work environments in Nevada hospitals along with outpatient clinics, skilled nursing facilities, community health agencies, and private practices. Join a compassionate team of licensed vocational nurses, RNs, nurse practitioners, and nursing leadership while benefiting from:
- High Job Openings: Nevada faces a major nursing shortage, with RN roles projected to increase by 18% in 2016-2026. The need spans medical/surgical nursing and specialties.
- Competitive Pay: Nevada nurses earned an average annual wage of $79,660 as of 2021, significantly above the national mean RN salary. This translates to $38.25 per hour.
If seeking meaningful work caring for others, find the program best aligning abilities with interests to begin an education in nursing. From LPNs to NPs and PhD scientists, nursing offers endless avenues to make lives better.
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How to Earn Your Nevada Nursing License
Upon completing courses and clinical training requirements from an accredited nursing program in Nevada, nursing graduates qualify to pursue state licensure allowing them to begin professional nursing practice as a Registered Nurse (RN).
Licensure Steps:
- Graduate from a nursing degree program approved by the Nevada State Board of Nursing
- Pass the NCLEX-RN licensing examination and apply for RN licensure.
- Renew the registered nursing license with Nevada every 2 years by meeting requirements.
Newly licensed RNs often start their careers in Nevada hospitals, building competency in medical/surgical units or emergency departments. Seasoned nurses may choose to pursue certifications demonstrating expertise in spotlight areas of:
- Critical/Intensive Care (ICU)
- Emergency Room Care
- Labor & Delivery (OB/GYN)
- Oncology Care (cancer)
- Palliative Care
- Wound Care
- Community/Home Health
Nevada will continue relying on skilled nurses. After gaining experience following licensure, nursing graduates might consider returning to school part-time online to pursue an RN to BSN or MSN degree leading to roles like Clinical Nurse Leader or Certified Nurse Midwife. The nursing career ladder allows professionals to steward more lives with greater responsibility and reward.
Finding the Right Nursing School in Nevada
When researching nursing schools in Nevada, look beyond rankings for the program aligning best with personal calling, learning needs, and career aspirations in delivering meaningful care.
Key Indicators of Quality Nursing Programs:
Accreditation
When researching the best nursing programs across the state of Nevada, prioritize those accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). These commissions enforce rigorous curriculum and outcome standards for associate degree nursing programs and beyond. Graduating from an accredited program from a Nevada nursing school accredited by the commission is an essential qualification to obtain state nursing licensure, secure financial aid, and launch a rewarding career delivering compassionate care.
Strong NCLEX Pass Rates
Nevada is home to quality BSN nursing programs offered across traditional and online RN to BSN formats. Review each school’s NCLEX-RN board exam pass rates, indicating how effectively their degree in Nevada prepares students with the nursing knowledge to qualify for a Nevada nursing license and begin compassionately caring for patients. National NCLEX pass rate averages hover around 88%, with top Nevada BSN programs striving even higher through rigorous nursing education. Whether a traditional four-year BSN or online RN to BSN program completion option, prioritize schools setting graduates up for NCLEX exam success.
Tuition Costs & Scholarship Availability
Nursing education represents an investment. Compare costs across nursing programs in Nevada. Seek schools offering academic scholarships or external aid through Hospital/GPOs sponsoring students with service commitments. maximizing in-state aid.
Clinical Rotation Placements
Quality clinical practice opportunities embedded within nursing curriculum prepare confident professionals. Review the variety and size of Nevada nursing school partnerships offering clinical training across diverse medical and community settings.
Student Support Services
Look for favorable nursing student-to-faculty ratios and academic resources like tutoring, mentoring, career counseling and networking opportunities. A robust support system shares the journey.
Let this guide serve as a starting point to discovering the boundless possibilities and personal fulfillment available through a nursing career that heals and uplifts. The Nevada nursing community welcomes you.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Nursing Schools in Nevada
What are some of the top nursing schools and programs in Nevada, located across the state?
Nevada offers quality nursing education options spanning associate degrees to bachelor’s and beyond. Top picks include the Orvis School of Nursing at University of Nevada, Reno (UNR), Roseman University of Health Sciences College of Nursing based in the Las Vegas area and online, Touro University Nevada in Henderson, Nevada State College with campuses in Henderson and across the state, and Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC) and Western Nevada College (WNC) for earning an ADN. Additional Nevada nursing schools can be found in locations from Reno to Las Vegas to better access high-quality, accredited nursing degree programs across levels aligning with career goals.
How do I enter an accredited nursing program to earn my RN license in Nevada?
First apply for admission into a CCNE or ACEN-accredited nursing diploma, Associate or Bachelor’s program offered at community colleges and universities statewide. Once you graduate and pass the NCLEX-RN exam, submit a license application to the Nevada State Board of Nursing.
What is the job outlook for new nurses choosing to work in Nevada?
The future looks bright for nurses in Nevada! With an aging population and 30% of RNs set to retire by 2030, Nevada is projected to experience the 10th highest nursing shortage in the country. New graduates gain valuable experience in sought-after specialties like emergency, neonatal, oncology, and community health nursing.
What type of nursing programs do schools and colleges offer in Nevada?
Nevada nursing schools provide quality ADN, BSN, MSN, DNP, RN-to-BSN, accelerated BSN, and online nursing degree programs accredited statewide to prepare students for RN licensure and specialization. Many offer nursing assistant diplomas.
How do I choose an entry-level nursing program to become an RN in Nevada?
Evaluate ADN and BSN pre-licensure programs based on cost, accreditation, NCLEX pass rates, clinical training sites offered, and student resources. Make sure your target Nevada nursing school provides the teaching model and financial support you need to gain essential skills.
What is the job outlook for RNs and nursing assistants hoping to work in Nevada?
Nevada must fill over 2,000 RN vacancies by 2026. Nurse assistants are also in high demand at hospitals, clinics and long-term care centers as the 65+ age group grows. Take advantage of a low-cost diploma program to access basic nursing jobs with room to progress.
More of the Best Nursing Schools in Nevada
|
Grade
|
University
|
Nevada Rank
|
Degree
|
|---|---|---|---|
| 89.98 | University of Nevada-Las Vegas | 4 | BSN |
Ranking Methodology and Data Sources
- Ranking Methodology
- University Webpages
- Nevada State Board of Nursing
- Department of Education’s College Scorecard
- American Association of Colleges of Nursing
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
- U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges Rankings
- Bureau of Labor Statistics Salary Data
- Department of Labor Projected Employment
- Bureau of Economic Analysis Cost of Living Data
