Known as the Beehive State because of its hard-working people, Utah offers some of the top nursing programs in the country. Between the need for an additional 1,920 nurses per year and the fact that Utah ranks 4th nationally for the percentage of new registered nurses required by 2030, it is evident that completing one of the esteemed nursing programs available at top nursing schools like those offered in and around Salt Lake City can lead to ample nursing job prospects.

With 23,760 registered nurses currently employed and salaries averaging $72,790 annually, Utah’s nursing schools provide excellent preparation. This guide will help you find the right nursing program for your goals.

  • There are 19 nursing schools in Utah.
  • The CCNE accredits 9 nursing school(s)
  • The ACEN accredits 11 nursing school(s).
  • The NCLEX passing rate for BSN students in Utah is between 25.00% and 95.58%.
  • The NCLEX passing rate for ADN students in Utah is between 58.82% and 176.87%.
  • RNs currently employed in Utah are 23,760.
  • RNs in Utah earn an average of $72,790 per year or $34.99 per hour.
  • Utah needs 29,820 new RNs by 2030 or 1,920 new nurses per year.
Nursing Schools In Utah

Nursing Schools in Utah

Overview of Nursing Programs in Utah

Utah offers a wide variety of quality nursing program options. These include:

  • Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) â€“ 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) â€“ 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 â€“ 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) â€“ 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) â€“ Graduate-level degree for advanced specialty nursing careers like nurse practitioner or educator roles. Usually takes 2+ years.
  • DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) â€“ 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 researching nursing schools in Utah, it is important to understand the differences between these nursing degrees and pathways to select the program that best matches your career goals.

Some key factors to evaluate include:

  • Program Format: On-campus, online, hybrid, accelerated, or part-time options
  • Program Length: From 1.5 years (accelerated) to 5+ years depending on degree type
  • Clinical Requirements: Hands-on supervised practice is required for licensure
  • Tuition Costs: Public and private school options with various scholarships available
  • Accreditation: Ensure the program is ACEN or CCNE accredited

It is also essential to confirm a nursing program’s approval by the Utah Board of Nursing. Graduating from a board-approved nursing degree program and passing the NCLEX-RN exam are required steps to earn a Utah nursing license (RN) and begin practicing.

What Are the Best Nursing Schools in Utah?

#1 Bachelor of Science in Nursing

University of Utah College of Nursing

College of Nursing

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    201 Presidents Circle, ROOM 201, Salt Lake City, UT - 84112-9008
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    (801) 581-7200
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Nurse Admin: Marla J. De Jong, PhD, RN7 CCNS, FAAN
Title: Dean, Louis H. Peery Presidential Endowed Chair, and Professor
  • Programs: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Nurse Practitioner, Adult Psychiatric - Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing, Women's Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, APRN Certificate, Bachelor, BSN to DNP, BSN to PhD, MSN, MSN to DNP

University of Utah College of Nursing is the only college of nursing with a PhD program in Utah, and it is committed to serving the people of Utah and beyond. The college aims for excellence in education, research, and clinical care. Students learn in a diverse, inclusive, and independent environment that helps to bring out the compassionate human beings and leaders in them.

Students learn to practice their skills in clinical rotations in a variety of settings across the region. They are also exposed to interprofessional education experiences along with community-engaged learning. Nursing students learn to integrate theory and research into evidence-based practice as the University is associated with a research-intensive medical academic center that covers a six-state region. 

Undergraduate Programs: For students who are currently high school seniors or are first-year college students with less than 30 credit hours, the University of Utah College of Nursing offers a Nursing Early Assurance Program. This track in the Baccalaureate Nursing Program allows direct entry to candidates that are planning on majoring in nursing at the University of Utah.

Similarly, for students who don’t currently hold a nursing license, the 16-month BSN program allows them to earn their BSN degree and a nursing license.

In addition to that, if you currently hold an Associate Degree in Nursing but want to earn a Bachelor’s degree, the College of Nursing offers an affordable online RN to BSN program that you can choose to complete in two, three, or four semesters.

There is also an Express Pathway which is a bridge program allowing second-semester nursing students in Salt Lake Community College to seamlessly transfer to the University of Utah and enroll in the online RN to BSN course upon completion of their SLCC program.

Graduate Programs: The University of Utah College of Nursing offers three online specialty tracks that allow students to specialize in distinct areas of healthcare. The specialties are Nursing Education, Nursing Informatics, and Gerontology.

The College of Nursing offers the only DNP and PhD in nursing courses in the entire state. The BS to DNP program offers specialties in Adult/Gerontology Acute Care, Neonatal, Nurse-Midwifery, Primary Care (Adult/Gerontology, Family, and Pediatrics), Psychiatric Mental Health, Women’s Health, Women’s Health and Nurse-Midwifery dual track. 

Similarly, the Masters to DNP program offers Direct Care for (Advanced Practice Registered Nurses) and Organizational Leadership (for non-APRNs, Nurse Administrators, and APRNs)

#2 Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Brigham Young University-Provo

College of Nursing

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    Main Campus, Provo, UT - 84602
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    (801) 422-4636
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Nurse Admin: Jane H. Lasseter, PhD, RN, FAAN
Title: Dean and Professor
  • Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
  • Award Levels: Bachelor, MSN

Brigham Young University is located in Provo, Utah.  They have a clinical simulation laboratory where nurses can practice nursing skills prior to working with actual patients. As part of their global health course, students have the opportunity to travel to distant areas, such as Czech Republic, Ecuador, Finland, and Ghana.

Brigham Young University College of Nursing ensures teaching excellence to prepare nurses and leaders to provide evidence-based, patient-centered care while being guided by the truths of the gospel of Jesus Christ. The students are taught to advance the science of nursing and healthcare by promoting health and wellness, alleviating suffering, serving individuals, families, and communities. 

Nursing courses at Brigham Young University build on the sciences, humanities, and religious studies to develop the strong theoretical and practical base necessary to understand and meet the health needs of people in various healthcare settings. Students learn to become experts in nursing skills in the clinical simulation laboratory and fully equipped Nursing Learning Center with audiovisual and computer learning aids and a research center. They also participate in clinical practice opportunities in various urban and rural hospitals, home, and community settings.

Undergraduate Programs: The Bachelor in Nursing course prepares students to pass their NCLEX-RN examination and practice as generalist nurses. The graduates learn to provide patient-centered and population-based care that is grounded in evidence-based practice and reflects a sound clinical judgment that links theory, practice, and research.

Graduate Programs: Brigham Young University offers a master’s degree in Family Nurse Practitioner that emphasizes clinical expertise and includes nursing theories and concepts along with extensive clinical experience.

 

#3 Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Western Governors University

Department of Nursing

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    4001 South 700 East Suite 700, Salt Lake City, UT - 84107
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    (801) 274-3280
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Nurse Admin: Kim Kelly-Cortez, PhD, MSEd, MBA, RN, CNE, NPD-BC
Title: Interim Dean and Chief Nursing Administrator
  • Programs: CNL, Registered Nursing
  • Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, Bachelor, MSN, RN to BSN, RN to MSN

Western Governors University is located in Salt Lake City, Utah.  WGU is a non-traditional university and their education is based on competencies, which means that their approach allows the students to learn things they do not already know, taking into consideration past education and work experience.

Western Governors University allows nursing students to complete their degrees online at any time or place that works for them. Students have loved this institution because they don’t have to choose between their education and work.

At Western Governors University, although the coursework is online, students will never be alone in their educational journey. Each student is paired with a mentor who has worked in the healthcare industry and will provide continual support, encouragement and help them achieve their goals. This online nonprofit organization is very affordable and also provides multiple scholarship opportunities to nurses who have shown exceptional activism or innovation in nursing that improves patient outcomes. 

Undergraduate Programs: The University offers an RN to BSN online program that is designed for working RNs who want an affordable and accessible bachelor’s degree to expand their career. However, for students who don’t hold a nursing license, the University has a Nursing (Prelicensure) BS degree that is offered in areas where the University has partnerships with healthcare employers. These partnerships allow students to practice in clinical sites and provide them with clinical coaches to successfully complete their degrees and build competence. 

Graduate Programs: The Nursing Education (BSN to MSN) degree prepares students to teach the next generation of nurses. Graduates of this degree are eligible to work as Nurse Educators, Nursing Faculty, Program Director, Academic Clinical Nurse Educator, and more. For students who don’t currently have a bachelor’s degree, the Nursing Education (RN to MSN) course includes a BSN program component in the degree itself. 

Similarly, there are also Nursing Informatics (BSN to MSN) and Nursing Informatics (RN to MSN) degrees that empower data-driven nurses. The Nursing Leadership and Management (BSN to MSN) and (RN to MSN) courses exist for students who are ready for greater responsibility like the director of nursing, chief nursing officer, and more. 

For nurses looking to advance their career in the clinical sector, the Family Nurse Practitioner (BSN to MSN) course prepares them to become board-certified FNPs.

Apart from these degrees, the University also offers two Post-Master’s Certificate in Nursing Education and Nursing Leadership and Management.

#4 Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Southern Utah University

Department of Nursing

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    351 West University Blvd, Cedar City, UT - 84720
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    (435) 586-7700
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Nurse Admin: Selwyn D. Layton, DNP, RN
Title: Chair
  • Programs: Registered Nursing
  • Award Levels: Bachelor, RN to BSN

Southern Utah University offers a learning-centered education that meets the requirements of both the students and employers. The courses combine classroom and experiential learning, emphasizing caring, critical thinking, patient safety, ethical decision-making, communication, civic responsibility, and professional excellence. 

The University offers small class sizes, career-focused learning, and hands-on experience that enable the students to become competent nurses in every form. Students learn to provide quality professional nursing care based on a synthesis of theoretical and empirical knowledge from nursing, physical and social sciences, arts and humanities, and life experiences. Students are offered hands-on experiences with state-of-the-art healthcare equipment, one-on-one instructional experiences, and varied hands-on clinical practicum opportunities that provide them with the necessary skills to practice as quality care providers. 

Undergraduate Programs: The Pre-Licensure Nursing program is designed to empower students to get their nursing licenses and work as nurse generalists in all kinds of healthcare facilities.

For health professionals such as LPNs and Paramedics, the HP to BSN program allows them to obtain their BSN degree and get their RN license.

Similarly, there is an online RN to BSN course designed for working RNs who don’t have their BSN degree. This course allows them to balance their work and education without having to compromise on either.

#5 Bachelor of Science in Nursing

AmeriTech College-Draper

Nursing Program

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    12257 South Business Park Drive-Ste 100, Draper, UT - 84020-6545
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    (801) 816-1444
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Nurse Admin: Janet Houston, DNP RN
Title: Dean of Nursing
  • Programs: Registered Nursing
  • Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor

Ameritech College of Healthcare is located in Draper, Utah.  The college educates nurses, dental assistants, medical assistants and occupational therapy assistants.  Their nursing program is an ADN degree that is designed to be completed quickly, in less than 2 years.  They also offer an RN to BSN completion option, which is an online program and can be completed in 3 semesters.

#6 Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Westminster College

School of Nursing

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    1840 South 1300 East, Salt Lake City, UT - 84105
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    (801) 484-7651
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Nurse Admin: Sheryl Steadman, PhD, MSN, RN
Title: Dean
  • Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
  • Award Levels: Bachelor, MSN

Westminster College is located in Salt Lake City, Utah.  They offer a traditional BSN track or an RN to BSN track.  They also offer a direct entry option for incoming freshmen.  The RN to BSN program is online, but the students do have to meet face-to-face a few times throughout the program.

#7 Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Utah Tech University

Utah Tech University

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    225 S University Avenue, Saint George, UT - 84770-3876
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    (435) 652-7500
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Nurse Admin: Judy Scott, EdD, MSN, RN
Title: Department Chair/Associate Professor
  • Programs: Registered Nursing
  • Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor

Utah Tech University is located in St. George, Utah.  Utah Tech University offers an ADN program and an RN to BSN program.  Students enrolled in the ADN program may continue into the RN to BSN program without reapplying if they pass their courses and the NCLEX-RN.  The RN to BSN program can be completed in as little as 12 months, if attending full-time, but can also be completed on a part-time basis, which is ideal for the working nurse.

#8 Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Weber State University

Weber State University

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    3848 Harrison Blvd., Ogden, UT - 84408-1001
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    (801) 626-6000
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Nurse Admin: Rieneke Holman, PhD, RN
Title: Associate Professor and Chair, Annie Taylor Dee School of Nursing
  • Programs: Registered Nursing
  • Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor

Weber State University is located in Ogden, Utah.  The university offers a variety of options for its students; they offer both an ASN and BSN degree. They also offer RN to BSN and PN to RN options.  Their program allows you to begin your studies in the ASN degree, and progress to the MSN level of nursing; however, they also allow entrance for new students in all levels of their nursing programs.

#9 Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Utah Valley University

Utah Valley University

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    800 W University Parkway, Orem, UT - 84058-5999
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    (801) 863-8000
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Nurse Admin: Dale Maughan, PhD, MSN, RN
Title: Chair
  • Programs: Registered Nursing
  • Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor

One of the leading nursing colleges in the state, Utah Valley University, prepares nurses for a successful nursing career via a team-oriented learning process and highly skilled faculty. Students learn the required knowledge and clinical judgment skills in order to provide expert nursing care in a dynamic healthcare environment. 

Nursing students at Utah Valley University get the chance to engage in hands-on learning in simulation labs and in clinical rotations. They participate in research, internships and also get international healthcare experiences. The University offers physical, online, or hybrid classes for different courses. The courses here are competitive and have high academic standards while also being balanced with a compassionate and team-oriented emphasis on preparing professional, skilled, and caring nurses.

Undergraduate Programs: Utah Valley University offers an Associate in Science in Nursing with a BSN completion program. Graduates of the ASN program can take their NCLEX-RN examination and practice as skilled RNs. They are also eligible to seamlessly transition to the BSN degree should they wish to. 

In addition, there is also an RN to BSN degree that allows ASN graduates to learn and apply leadership skills, genomics, global health perspectives, and research practice. The RN to BSN program classes are available online, hybrid, or face-to-face. 

Graduate Programs: The MSN program at Utah Valley University is an online course that can be taken full-time or part-time. Students are prepared for advanced roles as nurse educators in both clinical and academic settings.

Online Nursing Programs for Utah Students

Many schools offer online nursing degree options that allow Utah students to complete their coursework remotely. While online lectures and exams can be handled at a distance, students will still need to arrange for in-person clinical rotations locally to gain hands-on patient care experience.

Some online programs that accept students in Utah include:

Be sure to clarify program logistics and scheduling details when applying to any online nursing program as a Utah resident. Clinical rotation placement and availability is key to successfully progressing through and completing nursing school.

Accelerated BSN (ABSN) Programs

Accelerated BSN (ABSN) programs provide a fast-track option for earning a Bachelor’s in Nursing. Unlike the traditional bachelor’s degree in nursing, these intensive programs take 12-18 months to complete and are tailored for students who already hold a Bachelor’s degree in another field.

Best ABSN Schools in Utah

Some key aspects of ABSN programs include:

Prerequisites: Most programs require certain prerequisites, like anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and other science courses, prior to starting. Having a previous non-nursing Bachelor’s degree can typically substitute for general education requirements.

Admission Requirements: ABSN programs may require a minimum GPA around 3.0 in your prior Bachelor’s program, along with test scores from exams like the GRE. The application process is generally competitive.

Clinical Hours: Accelerated curriculums cram a lot of academics and 400+ clinical practicum hours into the 12-18 month timeframe through full-time schedules. Determining feasible clinical placement if doing rotations outside your local area is key.

Program Outcomes: Many accelerated BSN graduates pass the NCLEX-RN exam and are eligible for RN licensure on pace with those from traditional 4-year nursing programs. But balancing the condensed curriculum can prove demanding.

In Utah, there are a few accelerated BSN programs to choose from, mostly centered around the major metropolitan hubs. Do your research to pick the right fast-track nursing program for your needs.

RN to BSN Programs

Registered nurses who initially earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or diploma in nursing often pursue RN to BSN programs later in their careers to advance professionally.

Best RN to BSN Schools in Utah

There are good reasons RNs choose this path:

Leadership Skills: BSN curriculums expand upon the ADN foundation with coursework in leadership, research, statistics, disease prevention, and health policy. These skills can equip RNs for greater responsibilities.

Career Advancement: Earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing is required for graduate nursing programs. It also makes RNs more competitive for jobs and increased salary potential.

Program Formats: RN to BSN tracks allow for flexible scheduling, with many online and hybrid options taking 1-2 years to complete around working nursing shifts. Programs offer part-time and full-time formats.

When comparing RN to BSN programs in Utah, be sure to evaluate factors like schools’ credit transfer policies granting credit for prior nursing coursework and experience, availability of academic advisors specializing in RN to BSN, associated tuition costs, and potential financial assistance.

Master’s in Nursing (MSN) Programs

Those seeking to advance into fields like nurse education, leadership, research, or nurse practitioner roles pursue Master’s of Science in Nursing (MSN) degrees. Typical specializations offered through MSN programs include majors like:

Along with adult-gerontology, family, pediatric, psychiatric mental health, and other nurse practitioner (NP) tracks allowing for advanced clinical practice after certification testing.

MSN degrees take around 2 years to complete full-time once prerequisites are met. Programs are available online and in campus-based formats. Competitiveness for some specializations can vary. Tips for prospective MSN students include:

  • Aim for a strong undergraduate GPA
  • Take the GRE test seriously
  • Get 1-2 years of RN experience prior to applying
  • Complete any required undergraduate statistics coursework

Upon MSN graduation, students on NP tracks become eligible to sit for national NP certification exams and state licensure processes required to practice under an advanced nursing role working in conjunction with collaborating physicians. Others advance into teaching, administrative, research or informatics nursing positions.

Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs

Nurse practitioner programs lead to an MSN or DNP degree with specialized NP training and credentialing. NPs perform advanced clinical practice with a holistic focus after required master’s or doctoral-level academics and 500-1,000 supervised clinical hours.

Best NP Schools in Utah

Things to know about NP programs include:

  • Focus Choices: Specialize as a family nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology NP, pediatric NP, psychiatric mental health NP, or in acute care, oncology, emergency medicine, and other fields. Pick an area matching your interests.
  • Program Formats: Study part-time or full-time. Accelerated RN to MSN/DNP options also available, taking roughly 2-3 years post-RN licensure to complete an NP degree and certification process.
  • Clinical Practice: All NP graduates must pass national certification testing after their degree to obtain APRN licensure privileges and collaboratively diagnose, prescribe, treat, refer patients under state law.
  • Career Trajectory: Becoming an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) via an NP program leads to increased earning potential and opportunities to help communities through specialized expertise.
  • Applying & Advising: PhD-prepared nursing faculty and advisors provide guidance from entry through clinical placements and completion of NP degree paths.

Doctoral Nursing Programs (DNP & PhD)

Two main nursing doctorate pathways exist – research-focused PhD programs to shape the future of nursing science or practice-oriented DNP degrees for advanced clinical specialization.

Those interested in academia, publishing, and funding research choose PhDs:

  • Gain research, analysis, grant writing knowledge
  • Write a dissertation expanding nursing science
  • Takes roughly 4-7 years to complete post-BSN

Meanwhile, Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs are the terminal clinical degree for nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, clinical nursing directors, and other high-level practice roles:

  • Refine an advanced specialty like family care or anesthesia delivery through coursework and 1,000 clinical hours
  • Complete a DNP “capstone project” applying research to clinical practice
  • Can earn post-Master’s DNP in roughly 2 years

Both nursing doctoral paths involve working with PhD-prepared nurse research mentors. Exciting residency, practical experience, funding options, and faculty matches await prospective PhD and DNP nursing students.

Benefits of Becoming a Nurse in Utah

Along with a strong job market, nursing careers in Utah also offer very competitive pay, a low cost of living, and diverse workplace options. Some top advantages include:

  • Job Demand: Utah faces rising nursing shortages, with over 1,000 RN vacancies statewide. Nurses are needed across hospitals, clinics, and community care settings.
  • Salaries: Utah nursing salaries rank well above national averages and pay rises along with degree/experience levels. Excellent compensation.
  • Variety: Practice settings range from major healthcare systems along the Wasatch Front to rural clinics, homes, schools, and telehealth roles in communities statewide.

How to Earn Your Utah Nursing License

To securely launch your nursing career in Utah, graduating with a Diploma RN, Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) serves as the essential first step on the path to state RN licensure.

Here is a recap of key licensure requirements for becoming a registered nurse in Utah:

  1. Earn Degree: Successfully complete and graduate from a state board-approved RN diploma, ADN, or BSN degree program.
  2. Pass NCLEX Exam: Register for and pass the NCLEX-RN exam through the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).
  3. Apply for License: Submit fingerprints, background checks, and initial Utah RN licensure application/fees.
  4. Renew License: Once licensed, renew RN status every 2 years according to Utah Board of Nursing guidelines.

Additionally, nurses can expand practice authority and prescribing rights as nurse practitioners or in other advanced roles through separate application processes after specialized graduate nursing degree programs.

Finding the Right Nursing School in Utah

With Utah’s variety of quality nursing programs, how can prospective students identify and choose the best-fit option?

Key indicators of nursing school quality and outcomes to evaluate include:

Accreditation

To confirm quality standards, verify the nursing program holds both valid institutional accreditation (such as from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities) as well as professional programmatic accreditation status from either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) for its Associate of Science in Nursing degree program. Having recognition from these national nursing bodies ensures the program is accredited and meets established quality benchmarks.

NCLEX Pass Rates

Strong scores on the RN/PN national nursing licensure exams (NCLEX) indicate effective teaching and preparation by schools’ faculties and curriculums.

Tuition Costs & Financial Aid

Compare costs across desired programs. Leverage school scholarships, external aid sources like the Nurse Corps program, in-state tuition savings, assistance, and competitive loans to lower tuition hurdles.

Clinical Opportunities

Seek schools partnering with major healthcare systems, community clinics, and diverse settings to allow invaluable clinical nursing rotation experience during your studies.

Student Support

Favor nursing programs with robust advising teams, faculty mentors, peer communities, mental health resources, and other support systems critical to student success.

Do thorough research and make campus visits to determine your best-match nursing school in Utah. Weigh all key factors from academics and tuition to clinical depth when selecting the right nursing degree program for your needs and interests.

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Getting Licensed as an RN in Utah

After picking the ideal nursing school and program comes completing your degree or diploma education. Then you can shift focus to passing the NCLEX-RN exam and navigating Utah’s nursing licensure process.

Here is what to expect when getting licensed as an RN in the state:

Licensure Steps

The multi-part pathway involves graduating from an approved nursing program, passing the NCLEX-RN national exam to demonstrate competency, submitting all documentation to the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL), clearing background checks, then maintaining licensure through renewal every 2 years per state guidelines.

In-Demand Specializations

Utah nurses possessing ICU, ER, labor & delivery, oncology, pediatric, community health and other specialty experience see strong demand. Consider a future Master’s degree or certification in one of these key areas later in your career.

Job Outlook & Salaries

RNs here earn $75,000 per year on average—higher than most states – with competitive demand for nurses projected statewide. Rest assured, your nursing degree leads to an in-demand, stable UT career.

Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Schools in Utah

What practical nurse (LPN) to RN program options are available in Utah?

Utah nursing schools offer LPN to RN program options to transition licensed practical nurses (LPNs) into becoming registered nurses (RNs). These bridge programs build on previous collegiate nursing education and practical experience. Coursework covers advanced nursing theory and practice.

What is the process for getting a Utah Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing degree?

To earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Nursing in Utah, students must complete an accredited nursing program at one of the state’s colleges or universities. Programs typically combine nursing courses and labs with general education requirements. On-campus and online programs are available, with the AAS degree preparing graduates to become RNs.

How long does it take to complete certified nursing assistant (CNA) certificate programs in Utah?

The majority of certified nursing assistant (CNA) certificate programs that meet Utah Department of Commerce requirements can be completed full-time within 4-8 weeks. These accelerated programs prepare students to provide basic nursing care in hospitals, doctor’s offices, nursing homes and other healthcare settings. Clinical training is a key component.

What advanced placement nursing program options exist for licensed RNs in Utah?

Utah offers advanced placement program options for licensed registered nurses (RNs) to continue their education. These include RN to BSN and Master’s of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs at schools statewide. Nurses can pursue advanced nursing practice roles such as Nurse Practitioner after completing an accredited graduate nursing program.

What top accredited nursing programs does the state of Utah offer for prospective nursing students?

Utah is home to some of the best nursing programs in the country.  Options range from Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and online RN to BSN tracks. Utah also offers an advanced placement nursing program for licensed RNs seeking to further their education. When researching schools, prospective nursing students should compare each program in the state based on cost, format, specializations offered, accreditation status, etc. Many graduates of Utah nursing programs go on to successful nursing careers within the state or in another state after completing an accredited program and passing the necessary exams.

More of the Best Nursing Schools in Utah

Grade
University
Utah Rank
Degree
89.28 Utah Tech University 5 BSN
89.09 University of Utah College of Nursing 6 BSN
89.09 Utah Valley University 6 BSN
86.71 Weber State University 7 BSN
73.56 Provo College 8 BSN

Ranking Methodology and Data Sources

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