Best Nursing Schools in New Mexico in 2024

Nicknamed the Land of Enchantment, New Mexico is in need of more registered nurses to meet growing healthcare demands. By 2030, this southwestern state will require 21,350 additional nurses, meaning 1,300 new nurses must begin their nursing careers each year. With 17,030 registered nurses currently employed and earning an average annual salary of $77,590, New Mexico ranks 16th nationally for the percentage of new registered nurses needed in the coming years.

Top nursing schools in New Mexico offer both associate’s and bachelor’s degree programs to prepare students for this increasing opportunity. With strong job outlook for nurses in New Mexico expected through 2024 and beyond, graduating from one of the best nursing schools in the state secures graduates’ ability to gain their license in New Mexico upon completing their degree.

• There are 26 nursing schools in New Mexico.
• The CCNE accredits 9 nursing school(s)
• The ACEN accredits 16 nursing school(s).
• The NCLEX passing rate for BSN students in New Mexico is between 72.90% and 98.35%.
• The NCLEX passing rate for ADN students in New Mexico is between 56.92% and 100.00%.
• RNs currently employed in New Mexico are 17,030.
• RNs in New Mexico earn an average of $77,590 per year or $37.31 per hour.
• New Mexico needs 21,350 new RNs by 2030 or 1,300 new nurses per year.

Overview of Nursing Programs in New Mexico

New Mexico offers a wide variety of nursing programs to prepare you for an exciting and rewarding career. As you consider your options, you’ll want to understand the different types of degrees available as well as key factors that impact your school selection.

The main types of nursing degrees offered in New Mexico include:

• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) – Usually takes 2 years and prepares graduates to take the NCLEX-RN exam and become RNs. Offered at community colleges statewide.
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – Traditional 4-year degree for RNs, covers more advanced topics versus the ADN. Graduates still take the NCLEX-RN. Offered at universities and colleges.
• RN to BSN programs – For current RNs with an associate’s degree to bridge to the bachelor’s level. Expanding leadership skills and career options. Can often be completed online in 1-2 years.
• Accelerated BSN (ABSN) – Intensive 12-18 month bachelor’s degree for those who already have a bachelors in another field. Coursework plus hundreds of clinical hours prepare graduates to be RNs.
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Graduate-level degree for advanced specialty nursing careers like nurse practitioner or educator roles. Usually takes 2+ years.
• DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) – Designed for very high level nursing practice in a chosen specialty, with more clinical hours and residency components. Leads to titles like DNP or DrNP.
• PhD in Nursing – Focused on nursing research and academia. 4+ year program typically requires a dissertation and specializations are available.

When comparing New Mexico nursing schools, you’ll want to look at factors like:

• Accreditation status
• NCLEX exam pass rates
• Variety of specialization options
• Availability of online/hybrid programs
• Faculty qualifications
• Access to clinical sites
• Student resources
• Tuition costs and financial aid

You’ll also need to understand the New Mexico Board of Nursing requirements around nursing licensure exams and renewals. Their website provides the official regulatory information on all mandated criteria.

What Are the Best Nursing Schools in New Mexico?

Online Nursing Programs for New Mexico Students

Many high-quality BSN and MSN nursing programs are now offered in a flexible online format, expanding options for New Mexico students. However, for degrees leading to clinical licensure like DNP or MSN nurse practitioner tracks, state mandates require a portion of studies with in-person immersive clinical training within New Mexico.

When evaluating potential online nursing schools, be sure to check that they accept students for enrollment or distance participation from New Mexico before applying.

Accelerated BSN (ABSN) Programs

Accelerated BSN (ABSN) programs provide a fast-track option to earn a bachelor’s degree in nursing, allowing students who already hold a Bachelor’s degree to transition into the nursing field. The intensive curriculum of ABSN programs condenses traditional BSN content into 12-18 months of full-time year round study.

Typical requirements for admission into New Mexico ABSN programs include:

• Existing Bachelor’s degree with 3.0 minimum GPA
• Complete program prerequisites (anthropology, statistics, anatomy and physiology, etc.)
• CPR certification
• Criminal background checks
• Drug testing
• Immunization records

The condensed ABSN program schedule requires clinical coursework paired with classroom lectures. Managing 40+ clinical hours per week while also studying nursing theories, health assessment, evidence-based practice and other demanding topics requires extreme discipline and time management skills. However, motivation is fueled by the accelerated entrance into well-compensated and meaningful registered nursing jobs after graduation.

Many graduates successfully pass the National Licensure Exam (NCLEX-RN) on their first attempt. Pass rates provide an important indicator of program quality and the adequacy of preparation for entering the nursing field.

RN to BSN Programs

New Mexico offers both online RN to BSN programs  as well as campus-based degree completion programs tailored for working nurses who have an Associate in Nursing or other RN credentials. These innovative RN programs in New Mexico allow current entry-level nurses to advance their education while maintaining employment.

Best RN to BSN Schools in New Mexico

• Best RN to BSN Programs in New Mexico

Typical BSN program lengths range from 1-2 years depending on full-time or part-time study. Many schools structure asynchronous online classes to conveniently fit into busy shift schedules, often costing $500 or less per credit for New Mexico residents. Most also accept transfer credits from accredited Associate of Science in Nursing or other associate’s degree programs to streamline the path to earning a bachelor’s degree.

Master’s in Nursing (MSN) Programs

Those with sights set on advanced specialty practice should consider New Mexico’s range of Master of Science in Nursing programs accepting students holding a BSN degree. Master’s programs include both direct care and indirect care specializations such as:

• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
• Nurse Administrator
• Nurse Educator
• Nursing Informatics

Most Master’s programs blend online course delivery with some required in-person skills intensives. This allows working nurses to complete a Master’s without career disruption.

Experienced BSN nurses can often move straight to MSN courses provided they meet graduate program requirements. However, nurses newer to practice may need to boost clinical expertise before tackling the advanced Master’s curriculum.

Competitiveness for some specializations also varies. For example, MSN nurse practitioner roles require 500+ clinical practicum hours. Limited preceptor slots make admission highly selective. However, nursing informatics and nursing education tracks tend to be more accessible options.

All students should ensure prerequisite statistics and research methods coursework has been completed before applying. And federal financial assistance via Nursing Scholarships and Nurse Corps loan repayment helps offset tuition costs.

Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs

For nurses seeking an advanced nursing role in New Mexico to perform autonomous primary care or specialty practice, there are both MSN tracks and post-graduate NP certificates offered at schools like the University of New Mexico and New Mexico State University. These accredited programs prepare nurses for expanded responsibilities aligned with principles of nursing practice at an expert level:

• Developing comprehensive treatment plans and prescribing medications
• Ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests
• Making specialist referrals
• Providing Therapy and counseling

Nurse practitioner students select their specialty area of focus during two to three years of graduate nursing school. Nurses who have earned their BSN can complete an MSN program to enter advanced practice more rapidly after attaining RN experience. Part-time options allow practicing nurses to work concurrently while furthering MSN education and the required 500-1,000 clinical practicum hours. Core content areas explored through an enhanced nursing curriculum with pharmacology, health assessment, and pathophysiology courses include popular specialties like:

• Family nurse practitioner (FNP): Holistically treat patients across the lifespan
• Adult gerontology nurse practitioner (AGNP): Manage complex adult and elderly health needs
• Pediatrics: Address childhood development & illness from infants to teens

Graduates become eligible for national certification and autonomous practice authority granted by the NM Board of Nursing. This allows RNs to help address primary care shortages through evidence-based care, chronic disease management, reproductive health, urgent care services and more throughout the state’s communities.

Doctoral Nursing Programs (DNP & PhD)

The terminal degree in nursing practice is achieved through a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), with a curriculum focused on demonstrating practice competencies rather than original research. DNP programs tailor studies to your specific advanced nursing specialty (nurse executive, nurse anesthesia, etc.), culminating in a practice transformation project generating innovative evidence-based intervention models.

The PhD in Nursing is the top degree for those interested in academia. Rigorous research methodology coursework trains you to launch studies expanding scientific foundations for nursing practice. Studies culminate in a dissertation producing high-impact original research that gets published in nursing journals. New Mexico nursing Ph.D. programs also provide faculty research collaboration and mentoring opportunities.

Both DNP and PhD pathways offer options to shape the future of nursing through practice and science. All nurses should pursue the highest education possible to both provide expert-level care and maximize career prospects.

Benefits of Becoming a Nurse in New Mexico

The growing shortage of nurses in New Mexico creates excellent job prospects across diverse rewarding nursing roles. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for registered nurses in New Mexico is projected to increase 7% through 2031. This translates to average salaries competitive with national rates.

Nursing practice environments also abound, from level 1 trauma centers and tertiary hospitals to home health agencies, tribal clinics, nurse-managed health centers, prisons, schools and private practices. Or you can flex your autonomous practice skills as a highly sought after nurse practitioner in rural communities lacking other healthcare access.

Wherever you choose to launch your nursing career after earning your degree, know that New Mexico needs you! And the deep sense of purpose and fulfillment from this selfless profession will nourish your spirit.

How to Earn Your New Mexico Nursing License

Here is a brief overview of steps for joining this honorable profession:

1. Graduate from an Approved Registered Nursing Education Program

• ADN or BSN pre-licensure program
• Master’s direct entry nursing pathways

2. Pass the NCLEX-RN Examination

• Apply for testing authorization from NM Board of Nursing
• Schedule your NCLEX-RN exam appointment through the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN)
• Take and pass the Computer Adaptive Test

3. Apply for RN Licensure

Submit fingerprints, transcripts and application to New Mexico Board of Nursing

4. Renew Nursing License Every 2 Years

• Complete 30 contact hours of approved continuing education
• Submit renewal application with fee

Thousands have successfully walked this path before you in New Mexico. You can confidently follow in these footsteps! Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to earn your nursing license in New Mexico.

Finding the Right Nursing School in New Mexico

As you evaluate nursing programs in New Mexico, use this checklist of key indicators for comparison:

Accreditation Status

Be sure any prospective nursing school holds current accreditation through either:

• Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

This ensures rigorous standards are met for a high quality nursing education.

NCLEX Pass Rates

One crucial indicator of effective nursing program preparation is scores on the national RN licensing exam. Compare average 3-year school pass rates to the 88% national average.

Variety of Specializations

Look for multiple types of nursing degrees as well as nuanced specialization options matching your interests within ABSN, RN to BSN, Master’s and DNP programs.

Faculty Qualifications

Nursing schools with instructors holding PhD and DNP degrees signal cutting edge educational perspectives.

Preceptor Sites

Established relationships facilitating clinical rotations across diverse professional environments ensure rich practical experiences.

Getting Licensed as an RN in New Mexico

Preparing new generations of skilled nurses is a calling. By guiding compassionate students along structured degree pathways, nursing schools create qualified professionals ready to serve New Mexico communities through expert ethical care.

If you feel drawn toward alleviating suffering and making lives fuller, scan nursing programs to find where you belong. Then pursue education without hesitation! Use resources like the New Mexico Nursing Education Consortium to ensure wise application decisions.

Rewarding work awaits new nurses. But first comes dedication to learning foundations that inform competent practice. Embrace this privilege, allowing visions of helping others heal to transform you. Purposeful meaning flows through nursing – the essence of our shared humanity.

Licensure Steps

To recap key steps:

• Earn degree from accredited NM nursing school
• Pass NCLEX-RN exam
• Submit license application to NM Board of Nursing
• Renew license every 2 years

In-Demand Specializations

While all nurses address broad healthcare needs, consider gaining expertise in high growth specialties like:

ICU: Treat critically ill patients requiring close monitoring and life support tech. ICU nurses must complete advanced coursework in applied sciences and pharmacology to provide comprehensive care.

ER: Triage and care for patients with traumatic injury or illnesses. ER nurses rely on emergency nursing skills and critical thinking to respond rapidly to diverse conditions. The State of New Mexico projects strong demand for qualified ER nurses.

Oncology: Help cancer patients manage pain, nausea and other symptoms. Oncology nurses must complete specialized nursing courses in chemotherapy, radiation therapy, pain control and emotional support. Various nursing schools in New Mexico offer electives or concentrations in oncology nursing.

OB/GYN: Support women through childbirth and related health needs. OB/GYN nurses require in-depth knowledge of the female reproductive system, neonatal care, birthing methods and women’s wellness. Some ADN and BSN programs in New Mexico provide curriculum focused on maternal health nursing.

You can specialize after getting RN experience through future advanced degrees  or specialty certifications. Top programs help New Mexico nurses earn certifications in specialty care areas.

Job Outlook and Salaries

The latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data projects over 7,000 average annual openings for RNs in New Mexico through 2031. Nurses who earn their degree at New Mexico schools can attain employment rapidly with the state’s competitive nursing salaries averaging above $75,000 annually for RNs. Those who begin with an Associate’s Degree in Nursing or practical nursing certificate lay the foundation for lifelong learning and development in this growing field.

If your spirit is called to serve New Mexico’s beautiful communities through the art and science of nursing, this bright career brimming with opportunity welcomes you. By furthering education and experience, nurses in New Mexico can earn advanced roles as Nurse Practitioners, Certified Nurse Midwives, Clinical Nurse Specialists and more. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing Schools in New Mexico

What nursing programs are offered at community colleges in New Mexico?

Many prospective nurses wish to understand what accredited nursing programs are available at lower cost community colleges in the state. Knowing specifically which schools offer Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) certifications, or Registered Nursing (RN) pathways helps in comparing quality, affordability and fit. This allows making an informed enrollment decision.

What options exist for online nursing degrees?

With extensive demands on nurses’ time, the flexibility and accessibility of online nursing programs offers strong appeal. Nurses seek insights on accredited New Mexico schools providing distance-based RN, BSN or MSN degrees allowing progression while working. Understanding availability of fully online versus hybrid nursing program formats allows balancing education with existing responsibilities.

What types of financial assistance are available for nursing students?

The investment of time and tuition needed for quality nursing education can seem daunting. However, a wide variety of financial aid helps New Mexico nursing students manage costs through scholarships, government programs, student loans with income-based repayment options, tuition reimbursement, loan forgiveness, Nursing Corps stipends, graduate research/teaching funding and more.

How do I transfer nursing credits within New Mexico?

The pathways to advancing nursing expertise may require transferring credits between community college, university and online programs across the state at times. Nurses need to know best practices for preserving eligibility and coursework completed when transitioning between accredited ADN, BSN, MSN or DNP nursing programs located in different New Mexico schools.

What nursing specialty certifications should I pursue?

While nursing licensure provides wide opportunity, achieving an expertise edge through targeted nursing specialty certifications enhances employability and earning potential. Nurses evaluating what focused training to complete after graduation or alongside working often consider options in critical care (CCRN), neonatal, oncology, pediatric, psychiatric, emergency nursing and more. Guidance on certification benefits aids decisions.

What are the best nursing schools in New Mexico?

New Mexico offers many excellent nursing programs across the state. Leading options include the University of New Mexico College of Nursing, which offers undergraduate nursing degrees as well as a BSN. Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell is ranked a top school for its ADN degree and training as a nursing assistant. Other top choices are New Mexico Junior College, New Mexico Highlands University, Central New Mexico Community College, Northern New Mexico College, Western New Mexico University, and the University of New Mexico-Taos. All recognized schools and programs in the state teach nursing care, pharmacology, courses, and skills needed to pass the New Mexico State Board of Nursing requirements and ultimately have a rewarding career improving lives across the Land of Enchantment.

More of the Best Nursing Schools in New Mexico

Ranking Methodology and Data Sources

• Ranking Methodology
• University Webpages
• New Mexico 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

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