Best Nursing Schools in Rhode Island in 2024

Known as the “Ocean State” for its miles of breathtaking coastline, Rhode Island is home to first-rate nursing schools preparing students for rewarding careers. With over 10,860 registered nurses currently employed and earning an average salary of $85,270 per year, the field is growing rapidly to meet demand with over 13,340 new openings expected by 2030.

Though small geographically, Rhode Island ranks #12 nationally for registered nurse salaries and presents a strong job outlook for those looking to enter the profession. It’s important to research the nursing program offered and online nursing degrees available in the state of Rhode Island. In this article, we curated a list of the top nursing schools in Rhode Island to help you find the right nursing program for your needs.

• There are 5 nursing schools in Rhode Island.
• The CCNE accredits 3 nursing school(s)
• The ACEN accredits 5 nursing school(s).
• The NCLEX passing rate for BSN students in Rhode Island is between 79.23% and 89.11%.
• The NCLEX passing rate for ADN students in Rhode Island is between 84.65% and 86.58%.
• RNs currently employed in Rhode Island are 10,860.
• RNs in Rhode Island earn an average of $85,270 per year or $40.99 per hour.
• Rhode Island needs 13,340  new RNs by 2030 or 740 new nurses per year.

Overview of Nursing Programs in Rhode Island

Rhode Island features a range of nursing programs, from diplomas to doctoral degrees. These include:

Types of Nursing Degrees

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

When evaluating programs in Rhode Island, consider factors like cost, location, flexibility, clinical experience, student support services and more. Understanding program basics like delivery modes, time to completion, and unique focus areas will aid your search for the best fit.

Additionally, all nursing schools and programs must meet approval standards set by the Rhode Island Board of Nursing to operate in the state. Upon completing an approved nursing program, candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed to practice as a Registered Nurse.

Online Nursing Programs for Rhode Island Students

Online nursing programs allow Rhode Island students flexibility in completing coursework remotely. While classes take place online, students still complete critical clinical rotations at approved healthcare organizations under supervision. Many out-of-state accredited online programs accept Rhode Island students into RN, BSN, MSN, DNP and other nursing programs. Be sure to confirm any state-specific requirements when researching online schools.

In addition to out-of-state options, Rhode Island is also home to some excellent online RN programs at local schools. This allows in-state students to take advantage of top quality education from one of the best nursing schools without needing to relocate or commute to campus. Several accredited colleges and universities now offer nursing degrees either partially or fully online, including RN to BSN, MSN, and DNP programs. Allowing working Rhode Island RNs flexibility in advancing their studies, these online nursing degrees meet the needs of busy nursing professionals seeking to expand their credentials.

What Are the Best Nursing Schools in Rhode Island?

Accelerated BSN (ABSN) Programs

Accelerated BSN (ABSN) programs provide a fast-track option for earning a Bachelor’s degree in nursing. Designed for those who hold a BA or BS in another field, ABSNs allow students to transition careers efficiently by concentrating 2-4 years worth of nursing curriculum into 12-18 intensive months.

ABSN admission requirements typically include:

• Prior non-nursing bachelor’s degree
• Competitive GPA
• Completed prerequisite courses
• GRE/ACT scores
• Essay and recommendation letters

Once enrolled, ABSN students take year-round nursing classes and dedicate 25-30 hours per week to clinical placements gaining hands-on patient experience. This demanding schedule requires strong commitment and nursing-directed passion.

In addition to a BSN degree, graduates will meet the education portion needed to sit for the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) and gain licensure. Competitive certification exam pass rates indicate effective nursing program preparation.

RN to BSN Programs

Licensed RNs can advance their nursing education through RN to BSN completion programs tailored to working nurses. Designed for associate and hospital diploma nurses, RN to BSN programs build upon prior nursing knowledge with junior and senior-level coursework to fulfill additional requirements for the Bachelor’s degree.

Earning a BSN opens more nursing career advancement opportunities and prepares nurses for graduate study programs. BSN curriculum also focuses more holistically on areas like leadership, health promotion, evidence-based practice, nursing research, informatics and more.

Best RN to BSN Schools in Rhode Island

• Best RN to BSN Programs in Rhode Island

RN to BSN program formats range from 100% online to hybrid models allowing flexible study for busy nurses:

• Online: Complete asynchronous coursework and assignments fully remote
• In-person: Attend traditional on-campus classes
• Hybrid: Mix of online and limited on-campus meetings

Part-time and full-time options range from 1-4 years to complete. Carefully evaluate each RN to BSN program for generous transfer credit allowance and options to substitute previous nursing coursework.

Financial aid like scholarships and nursing loan repayment assistance can offset tuition costs. Seek schools with dedicated nursing academic advisors and support services.

Master’s in Nursing Programs

Those wanting to specialize by becoming nurse practitioners, nurse midwives, clinical nurse specialists or nurse anesthetists can enroll in a Master’s of Science in Nursing Program with the appropriate focus. Advance into roles managing complex healthcare conditions and gain authority to prescribe medication in most states.

Other Master’s pathways like Nursing Informatics, Healthcare Administration and Nursing Education prepare nurses for leadership beyond hands-on patient care.

Master’s programs come in full-time and part-time formats:

• Full-time: Usually 12-24 months including summers
• Part-time: Around 3 years taking classes while working

Core MSN coursework covers advanced practice nursing roles, evidence-based practice, healthcare policy and reinforcement of nursing values. Programs then dive deep into specialty skills and knowledge. Due to competitive admission, MSN applicants aim for high undergraduate GPAs, nursing experience, and solid letters of recommendation.

Post-master’s certificate options allow nurses who hold an MSN to gain expertise in another specialty like family practice or psychiatry.

Nurse Practitioner Programs

One of the most popular Master’s level options – Nurse Practitioner (NP) programs prepare Registered Nurses to assess patients, order diagnostic tests, make diagnoses and prescribe medication. This requires rigorous academics plus 500-1,000 supervised clinical hours working directly with patients.

NPs boast an array of specialization possibilities to impact lives across the lifespan. Choose a path that ignites your passion:

Specializations:

• Family nurse practitioner
• Adult-gerontology nurse practitioner
• Pediatrics nurse practitioner
• Women’s health nurse practitioner
• Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner
• Emergency nurse practitioner
• Acute care nurse practitioner

Whether enrolled in RN to MSN fast-track programs or standard NP pathways, students can expect around 2-3 years of graduate nursing and advanced practitioner coursework. Most states mandate formal doctor collaboration and oversight of NPs during a transitional period.

All nurse practitioner graduates must pass national certification testing demonstrating qualification in their chosen specialty to receive authority to practice. Certification and required state licensure open career doors to providing complete medical care—the ability to fully assess, diagnose, treat, prescribe, and refer patients.

Best Nurse Practitioner Schools in Rhode Island

• Best Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs in Rhode Island

Nursing Doctorates: DNP and PhD

For expert nurse leaders at the top of their profession, nursing doctoral programs offer the highest education credential through two main pathways – the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing.

DNP: Prepares elite clinicians for nursing practice leadership through an intense 3-4 year doctoral program culminating with a practice-focused capstone project.

PhD: Research-focused degree ideal for those interested in academia and scientific discovery within nursing. Dissertation builds expertise to steer healthcare conversations.

DNPs gain opportunity for nursing executive and Director of Nursing roles as well as teaching. PhDs frequently seek faculty tenure track university positions to educate future nurses while advancing healthcare delivery through research.

Both pathways offer funding opportunities like tuition coverage, grants or salary for research or teaching assistance. Doctoral candidates also complete residencies and rotations for specialized real-world experience.

Benefits of Becoming a Nurse in Rhode Island

As the capital of Rhode Island, Providence offers outstanding nursing schools and medical facilities providing profound emotional rewards caring for others while presenting stable employment opportunities now and in the future.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects over 200,000 new Registered Nursing positions needed nationwide by 2029 – representing one of healthcare’s fastest growing roles. Top Rhode Island schools like the University of Rhode Island, Rhode Island College, and Zvart Avedisian Onanian School of Nursing prepare students through excellent accredited nursing degree programs.

Additional advantages to building your nursing career in Rhode Island include:

High Demand – Numerous job options exist around Providence and statewide with competitive salaries to rival nationwide averages

Career Flexibility – Work per diem, part-time or full-time. Change specialties as interests evolve

Varied Environments – Practice nursing across settings like hospitals, clinics, schools and home health care

Resume Diversity – Gain well-rounded competencies spanning different nursing roles

Specialized Advancement – Continue education through RN to BSN, Master’s and other nursing programs to become nurse practitioner, administrator or professor

Licensing Mobility – Obtain RN licensure in Rhode Island upon graduating from one of over 10 high caliber in-state schools then expand career prospects regionally

Impact Community Health – Help provide care reducing statewide and regional nursing shortages through Bachelor’s, Associate’s, LPN or nursing certifications

As a small but mighty state, Rhode Island offers outstanding associates, bachelor’s and advanced nursing degree programs, hands-on training through clinical rotations, and fulfilling work improving community wellness.

How to Earn Your RN License at Rhode Island

Follow these key steps to earn your nursing license and launch your nursing career in Rhode Island and take advantage of the state’s excellent RN job prospects and competitive salaries:

1. Graduate high school or earn a GED meeting minimum GPA and academic requirements. Focus science courses like biology and chemistry.

2. Gain admission to an approved nursing diploma, Associate’s degree or Bachelor’s degree program in Rhode Island. Top ranked schools across the state offer over 10 accredited RN, LPN and practical nursing programs including University of Rhode Island, Rhode Island College, and Zvart Avedisian Onanian School of Nursing.

3. Study hard through intensive nursing courses and demonstrate clinical excellence during rotations at Rhode Island healthcare facilities, graduating from your program.

4. Register to take the NCLEX-RN exam through Rhode Island Board of Nursing.

5. Pass the licensure exam and apply to receive your Rhode Island RN license.

6. Search RN job openings and consider options while gaining experience. Advance your nursing education through RN to BSN programs, Master’s degrees, or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) then specialize further through those advanced certifications and degrees.

7. Renew Rhode Island RN license upon expiration while meeting continued educational requirements through additional college nursing credits or certification maintenance.

Finding the Right Nursing School in Rhode Island

With numerous accredited nursing programs for both beginning and experienced nurses, Rhode Island offers outstanding in-state options to earn or further develop your nursing credentials.

In fact, Rhode Island is home to some of the best nursing schools and colleges in the country, with several nursing programs ranked among the top 10 best nursing schools nationwide. This includes the renowned Zvart Onanian School of Nursing at the University of Rhode Island. Beyond an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or a certificate in either nursing management or registered nursing, students can also find Bachelor’s and Master’s programs in the state.

Beyond checking that potential schools hold proper state nursing board authorization and nursing accreditation through either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or American Association of Colleges of Nursing Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), use this criteria to evaluate the best nursing program fit:

Though Rhode Island may be small geographically, it is also continuing to gain nursing experience and offer accredited nursing degrees through five best nursing schools. Nurses can obtain licensure as either a registered nurse (RN) or licensed practical nurse (LPN) to provide quality nursing care across the state. With so many options, those interested in nursing or looking to find nursing programs should have no problem doing so. Whether seeking to become a certified nursing assistant (CNA), earn an RN license in Rhode Island for the first time, or advance your studies to grow within the number of nursing career pathways available, the state has much to offer current and aspiring nurses at multiple levels.

NCLEX Pass Rates

All graduates take this nursing licensure exam. Schools with higher pass rates better prepare students with nursing skills mastery. In Rhode Island, many of the best nursing colleges have excellent NCLEX pass rates, indicating they provide quality education. This includes programs offered at several top 5 best nursing schools in the state.

The island nursing schools are ranked highly not just for passing the RN exam but also for nursing at Rhode Island medical facilities. Local Rhode Island registered nurses must complete one of the different types of nursing programs whether at the RN, advanced degree, or certificate level. Beyond initial RN licensure, nursing requires professionals to specialize and continue advancing their studies.

Tuition Costs and Scholarships

Contrast tuition rates – public and private school ranges significantly. Leverage scholarships, grants and Nursing loan repayment assistance programs.

Clinical Rotation Opportunities

Consider the variety and quality of partner hospital systems and clinics. Different settings equal different hands-on training experiences.

Student-to-Teacher Ratios

Lower ratios allow personalized instruction guidance including useful simulated learning when nursing students can practice skills through role play exercises with specialized mannequins.

Student Resources

Look for academic advising, tutoring, career guidance, mentoring and other support systems.

Getting Licensed as a Registered Nurse in Rhode Island

Upon completing a State Board of Nursing-approved nursing program, nursing graduates qualify to take the NCLEX-RN exam. Achieving a passing score earns your nursing license.

Licensure Steps Include:

• Graduate from approved Registered Nursing diploma or degree program
• Receive transcript verifying degree completion
• Register online for NCLEX-RN exam
• Pass NCLEX and apply for Rhode Island RN licensure
• Begin exciting nursing career!

Nationwide, over 1 million nurses make up the largest healthcare occupation. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects over 200,000 additional nurses needed around the county by 2029. Such staggering demand stems from an aging baby boomer population requiring more care coupled with retiring nurses exiting the workforce.

This outstanding career outlook makes nursing in Rhode Island quite appealing with competitive salaries that should continue rising. Find the nursing specialty that sparks your passions through rewarding work that changes lives. Start your nursing career now and work in Rhode Island.

FAQ About Nursing Schools in Rhode Island

What are the best nursing schools in Rhode Island?

Rhode Island is home to many highly-ranked nursing schools, including the University of Rhode Island, Rhode Island College, and the Community College of Rhode Island. The University of Rhode Island is typically ranked among the top nursing schools in the region.

What nursing programs are offered in Rhode Island?

You can find a variety of nursing programs in Rhode Island, including associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs. Common programs include Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), RN to BSN, Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), and more. Schools also offer certificates for Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA).

How do I become an RN in Rhode Island?

To become a Registered Nurse (RN) in Rhode Island, you must complete either an ADN or BSN degree program and pass the NCLEX-RN licensure exam. ADN programs take about 2 years while a BSN takes 4 years. Once licensed as an RN, you must then apply for licensure through the Rhode Island Board of Nurse Registration and Nursing Education.

What is the job outlook for nurses in Rhode Island?

The job outlook for nurses in Rhode Island is very strong. The state is projecting over 1,000 average annual job openings for registered nurses through 2026. This job growth is driven by an aging population needing more healthcare. Nurses can find jobs in hospitals, doctor’s offices, nursing homes, and other facilities.

How much do nurses make in Rhode Island?

The average registered nurse salary in Rhode Island is over $80,000 per year. However, salaries can vary based on your specific nursing position, degree, certifications, specialization, years of experience, and employer. For example, nurse practitioners in RI earn well over $100,000 on average.

More of the Best Nursing Schools in Rhode Island

Ranking Methodology and Data Sources

• Ranking Methodology
• University Webpages
• Rhode Island 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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