RN Programs in Alabama
In our Alabama RN program guide, find rankings for both ADN and BSN Degree programs, tuition costs, NCLEX passing rates, and more. Research key Alabama RN Program information to help you compare program metrics and to apply to best RN program for your career in nursing.
In the State of Alabama, nurses are helping to change the face of healthcare. To ensure that they have the best education and preparation for future health care challenges, registered nurses need to graduate from a state-approved associate's degree in nursing program or a BSN degree program.
Nurses who graduate from an RN program can obtain certification in over 100 nursing specialties, go on to earn an RN to BSN or RN to MSN degree.
BSN degree holders have options to earn an Advance Practice Register Nursing (APRN) degree and become a Nurse Practitioner (NP), or earn an advanced degree for a career in any number of nursing leadership roles such Nurse Educator or Clinical Nurse Specialist.
Alabama RN Program Comparisons: ADN vs BSN
| Compare RN Programs | ADN | BSN |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Nursing Programs | 27 | 15 |
| Average NCLEX Passing Rate | 81.88% | 351.59% |
| NCLEX Passing Rate Range | 50.23% to 98.75% | 68.65% to 4,053.77% |
| Average Net Price | $8,410.92 | $17,341.20 |
| Average Net Price Range | $2,651.00 to $22,526.00 | $10,292.00 to $27,477.00 |
| Average Student Loan | $9,357.82 | $19,579.07 |
| Average Student Loan Range | $1,325.00 to $25,000.00 | $9,500.00 to $27,475.00 |
| See Additional Detail | ADN Rankings for Alabama State | BSN Rankings for Alabama State |
Best Ranked RN Programs in Alabama
To help nursing students in their search for a top RN program, the education experts at RNCareers.org publish their annual findings of the best nursing schools for both Alabama and the country. Schools ranked on our list have proven their ability to educate highly competent nurses.
To create our rankings, we evaluated 26 ADN degree programs and 15 BSN degree programs in Alabama. We obtained each institution’s first-time NCLEX-RN passing rates, the number of students taking the test, the program nursing accreditation and more. We then compared the results against other nursing programs in Alabama to provide our state rankings. View our methodology.
RANKED 1
Coastal Alabama Community College (James H Faulkner State)
- 1900 US Hwy 31 S, Bay Minette, AL - 36507-2698
- (251) 580-2100
Coastal Alabama Community College is located in Bay Minette, Alabama and is known to have the lowest tuition rate in Alabama. They offer various types of nursing programs – an LPN program, a nursing mobility program (LPN to RN), and an RN program. Nurses who are graduates of Faulkner State Community College are prepared to be critical thinkers, practicing safely and effectively in a variety of healthcare settings.
School Information
Location: Bay Minette, AL- Type: Public
- Programs Offered As: Campus
NCLEX
Overall Score: 98.79%- State Rank: 1
- US Rank: 12
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Associate Degree
- Program Accreditors: ACEN
RANKED 2
George C Wallace State Community College-Hanceville
- 801 Main St NW, Hanceville, AL - 35077-2000
- (256) 352-8000
Wallace State Community College is located in Hanceville, Alabama. They offer both an LPN and an RN program on their campus. Their RN program prepares its graduates for any entry level nursing position. Ultimately, the Wallace State Department of Nursing’s goal is to produce graduates “who are dedicated and exceptional healthcare providers committed to transforming the lives of patients, families, and the community.” Wallace State Community College also has an articulation agreement with University of Alabama, which allows its graduates to pursue their bachelor’s or master’s degree of nursing.
School Information
Location: Hanceville, AL- Type: Public
- Programs Offered As: Campus
NCLEX
Overall Score: 93.40%- State Rank: 2
- US Rank: 162
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Associate Degree
- Program Accreditors: ACEN
RANKED 3
Alabama Southern Community College
- 2800 South Alabama Avenue, Monroeville, AL - 36460
- (251) 575-3156
School Information
Location: Monroeville, AL- Type: Public
- Programs Offered As: Campus
NCLEX
Overall Score: 93.26%- State Rank: 3
- US Rank: 168
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Associate Degree
RANKED 4
Lawson State Community College-Birmingham Campus
- 3060 Wilson Rd SW, Birmingham, AL - 35221-1717
- (205) 925-2515
Lawson State Community College is located in Birmingham, Alabama; there is also a campus in Bessemer, Alabama for an evening RN program. The school boasts that their nursing program is competitive and prestigious – and difficult to gain entrance. Although their is a minimum GPA requirement, it is recommended to maintain a high GPA and perform at a high level in all science courses. It is even recommended that their students take additional biology classes to ready themselves for their nursing program – classes that are not required for the nursing program.
School Information
Location: Birmingham, AL- Type: Public
- Programs Offered As: Campus
NCLEX
Overall Score: 93.26%- State Rank: 3
- US Rank: 168
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Associate Degree
- Program Accreditors: ACEN
RANKED 5
Herzing University-Birmingham
- 280 West Valley Ave, Birmingham, AL - 35209
- (205) 916-2800
School Information
Location: Birmingham, AL- Type: Private For-Profit
- Programs Offered As: Campus, Online
NCLEX
Overall Score: 92.24%- State Rank: 4
- US Rank: 210
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Associate Degree
RANKED 6
Calhoun Community College
- 6250 U S Highway 31 N, Tanner, AL - 35671
- (256) 306-2500
School Information
Location: Tanner, AL- Type: Public
- Programs Offered As: Campus
NCLEX
Overall Score: 92.20%- State Rank: 5
- US Rank: 211
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Associate Degree
- Program Accreditors: ACEN
RANKED 7
George C Wallace State Community College-Selma
- 3000 Earl Goodwin Parkway, Selma, AL - 36703-2808
- (334) 876-9227
School Information
Location: Selma, AL- Type: Public
- Programs Offered As: Campus
NCLEX
Overall Score: 91.77%- State Rank: 6
- US Rank: 228
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Associate Degree
- Program Accreditors: ACEN
RANKED 8
Jefferson State Community College
- 2601 Carson Rd, Birmingham, AL - 35215-3098
- (205) 853-1200
School Information
Location: Birmingham, AL- Type: Public
- Programs Offered As: Campus
NCLEX
Overall Score: 91.34%- State Rank: 7
- US Rank: 244
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Associate Degree
- Program Accreditors: ACEN
RANKED 9
Snead State Community College
- 102 Elder Street, Boaz, AL - 35957-0734
- (256) 593-5120
School Information
Location: Boaz, AL- Type: Public
- Programs Offered As: Campus
NCLEX
Overall Score: 90.99%- State Rank: 8
- US Rank: 258
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Associate Degree
- Program Accreditors: ACEN
RANKED 10
Northeast Alabama Community College
- 138 Highway 35, Rainsville, AL - 35986
- (256) 638-4418
School Information
Location: Rainsville, AL- Type: Public
- Programs Offered As: Campus
NCLEX
Overall Score: 90.15%- State Rank: 9
- US Rank: 291
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Associate Degree
- Program Accreditors: ACEN
RANKED 11
Bevill State Community College
- 1411 Indiana Avenue, Jasper, AL - 35501
- (205) 387-0511
School Information
Location: Jasper, AL- Type: Public
- Programs Offered As: Campus
NCLEX
Overall Score: 88.24%- State Rank: 10
- US Rank: 356
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Associate Degree
- Program Accreditors: ACEN
RANKED 12
Northwest-Shoals Community College
- 800 George Wallace Blvd, Muscle Shoals, AL - 35661
- (256) 331-5200
School Information
Location: Muscle Shoals, AL- Type: Public
- Programs Offered As: Campus
NCLEX
Overall Score: 88.17%- State Rank: 11
- US Rank: 357
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Associate Degree
- Program Accreditors: ACEN
RANKED 13
Chattahoochee Valley Community College
- 2602 College Drive, Phenix City, AL - 36869
- (334) 291-4900
School Information
Location: Phenix City, AL- Type: Public
- Programs Offered As: Campus
NCLEX
Overall Score: 88.01%- State Rank: 12
- US Rank: 365
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Associate Degree
- Program Accreditors: ACEN
RANKED 14
Troy University
- University Avenue, Troy, AL - 36082-0001
- (334) 670-3100
Troy University is located in Troy, Alabama. Their RN to BSN program is unique in that they have a pathway that segues the nurse directly into an MSN program, allowing the nurse to continue for their advanced degree immediately following completion of their BSN degree. Also unique is that the student has the option of taking the majority of their coursework online.
School Information
Location: Troy, AL- Type: Public
- Programs Offered As: Campus, Online
NCLEX
Overall Score: 87.96%- State Rank: 13
- US Rank: 368
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Associate Degree, Bachelor Degree
- Program Accreditors: ACEN
RANKED 15
George C Wallace State Community College-Dothan
- 1141 Wallace Drive, Dothan, AL - 36303-9234
- (334) 983-3521
School Information
Location: Dothan, AL- Type: Public
- Programs Offered As: Campus
NCLEX
Overall Score: 87.57%- State Rank: 14
- US Rank: 383
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Associate Degree
- Program Accreditors: ACEN
RANKED 16
Shelton State Community College
- 9500 Old Greensboro Rd, Tuscaloosa, AL - 35405-8522
- (205) 391-2211
Shelton State Community College is located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. They offer both a traditional RN program and an LPN to RN program; they also offer an LPN program. Shelton State Community College prides itself on being the first full-time and evening practical nursing program in the state of Alabama. The college also advertises it’s SOAR institute – Student Opportunities for Achievement and Resources. This institute housed within the college assists students with general education courses and offers the use of computers for student use.
School Information
Location: Tuscaloosa, AL- Type: Public
- Programs Offered As: Campus
NCLEX
Overall Score: 86.89%- State Rank: 15
- US Rank: 414
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Associate Degree
- Program Accreditors: ACEN
RANKED 17
Southern Union State Community College
- 750 Roberts St, Wadley, AL - 36276
- (256) 395-2211
Southern Union State Community College has multiple campuses in Alabama- Wadley, Opelika, and Valley. The RN school is housed on the Opelika campus. Their RN program is unique in that it offers mobility programs for not just LPNs seeking to become RNs, but also paramedics seeking to become RNs.
School Information
Location: Wadley, AL- Type: Public
- Programs Offered As: Campus
NCLEX
Overall Score: 85.56%- State Rank: 16
- US Rank: 465
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Associate Degree
- Program Accreditors: ACEN
RANKED 18
Jefferson Davis Community College
- 220 Alco Dr, Brewton, AL - 36426
- (251) 867-4832
School Information
Location: Brewton, AL- Type: Public
- Programs Offered As: Campus
NCLEX
Overall Score: 84.67%- State Rank: 17
- US Rank: 491
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Associate Degree
RANKED 19
Bishop State Community College
- 351 North Broad Street, Mobile, AL - 36603-5898
- (251) 405-7000
School Information
Location: Mobile, AL- Type: Public
- Programs Offered As: Campus
NCLEX
Overall Score: 83.40%- State Rank: 18
- US Rank: 527
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Associate Degree
- Program Accreditors: ACEN
RANKED 20
University of West Alabama
- Station One, Livingston, AL - 35470
- (205) 652-3400
School Information
Location: Livingston, AL- Type: Public
- Programs Offered As: Campus
NCLEX
Overall Score: 81.87%- State Rank: 19
- US Rank: 564
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Associate Degree
- Program Accreditors: ACEN
RANKED 21
Gadsden State Community College
- 1001 George Wallace Dr, Gadsden, AL - 35903
- (256) 549-8200
School Information
Location: Gadsden, AL- Type: Public
- Programs Offered As: Campus
NCLEX
Overall Score: 79.80%- State Rank: 20
- US Rank: 595
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Associate Degree
- Program Accreditors: ACEN
RANKED 22
Lurleen B Wallace Community College
- 1000 Dannelly Blvd., Andalusia, AL - 36420-1418
- (334) 222-6591
School Information
Location: Andalusia, AL- Type: Public
- Programs Offered As: Campus
NCLEX
Overall Score: 78.77%- State Rank: 21
- US Rank: 615
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Associate Degree
- Program Accreditors: ACEN
RANKED 23
Central Alabama Community College
- 1675 Cherokee Rd, Alexander City, AL - 35010
- (256) 234-6346
School Information
Location: Alexander City, AL- Type: Public
- Programs Offered As: Campus
NCLEX
Overall Score: 78.33%- State Rank: 22
- US Rank: 623
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Associate Degree
- Program Accreditors: ACEN
RANKED 24
Judson College
- 302 Bibb St, Marion, AL - 36756
- (334) 683-5100
School Information
Location: Marion, AL- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Programs Offered As: Campus
NCLEX
Overall Score: 67.98%- State Rank: 23
- US Rank: 702
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Associate Degree
RANKED 25
Virginia College-Montgomery
- 6200 Atlanta Highway, Montgomery, AL - 36117-2800
- (334) 551-1500
School Information
Location: Montgomery, AL- Type: Private For-Profit
- Programs Offered As: Campus, Online
NCLEX
Overall Score: 61.63%- State Rank: 24
- US Rank: 716
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Associate Degree
RANKED 26
Fortis College-Montgomery
- 3470 Eastdale Cir, Montgomery, AL - 36117
- (334) 244-1827
School Information
Location: Montgomery, AL- Type: Private For-Profit
- Programs Offered As: Campus
NCLEX
Overall Score: 51.56%- State Rank: 25
- US Rank: 727
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Associate Degree
NOT RANKED
University of Mobile
- 5735 College Parkway Drive, Mobile, AL - 36613-2842
- (251) 675-5990
School Information
Location: Mobile, AL- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Programs Offered As: Campus, Online
- State Rank: N/A
- US Rank: N/A
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Associate Degree, Bachelor Degree, Master Degree
- Program Accreditors: CCNE
ADN Programs In Alabama
Alabama's goal is to educate competent nurses and to provide the best healthcare possible to patients. To become an RN in the state of Alabama, nurses must expand their ability to help patients and build on the knowledge they have gained from school or as a practicing CNA or LPN. Alabama RN programs require completion of the following classes:
- Community nursing in elderly populations
- Health promotion
- Nursing theories and the family
- Ethics in nursing
- Psychiatric and mental health nursing
- Nursing research
- Nursing leadership
- Medical and informational technologies
All of these classes offer unique information that will help enrich your knowledge and enhance your growth as a nurse.
NCLEX Passing Rates for Alabama ADN Programs
Coastal Alabama Community College (James H Faulkner State) has the highest NCLEX-RN rate in Alabama of 98.75%. Attending this stellar school will cost you about $7,385.00 a year.
- ADN Programs Offered in Alabama: 27
- Average NCLEX-RN Passing Rate: 81.88%
- NCLEX Passing Rate Range: 50.23% to 98.75%
How Much Do ADN Programs Cost in Alabama?
We compiled the net-price costs for RN Programs in Alabama so that you can find RN programs to meet your budget expectations.
When comparing ADN vs BSN programs, the average net-price per year for an Associate Degree in Nursing program is considerably less than for a Bachelor Degree in Nursing.
The lowest cost ADN program in Alabama is offered by George C Wallace State Community College-Dothan at about $2,651.00 and has an average NCLEX-RN passing rate of 84.62%. The highest cost ADN program is offered by Herzing University-Birmingham and it will cost about $22,526.00 and has an average NCLEX-RN passing rate of 88.50%.
- Average Net-Price for ADN Programs inAlabama: $8,410.92
- Net-Price Range for Alabama ADN Programs: $2,651.00 to $22,526.00
Median Student Borrowing for ADN Programs
- Average Student Borrowing for Alabama Schools: $9,357.82
- Student borrowing range for ADN programs in Alabama: $1,325.00 to $25,000.00
RANKED 1
Spring Hill College
- 4000 Dauphin St, Mobile, AL - 36608-1791
- (251) 380-4000
Spring Hill College is located in Mobile, Alabama. Spring Hill College is the oldest Catholic college in the Southeast and the third oldest Jesuit college in the US. They boast that their student to faculty ratio is 13:1. In addition, nursing students comprise 9% of their student population, which is pretty outstanding when their are 46 majors available.
School Information
Location: Mobile, AL- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Programs Offered As: Campus
NCLEX
Overall Score: 100.00%- State Rank: 1
- US Rank: 1
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Bachelor Degree, Master Degree
- Program Accreditors: CCNE
RANKED 2
Troy University
- University Avenue, Troy, AL - 36082-0001
- (334) 670-3100
Troy University is located in Troy, Alabama. Their RN to BSN program is unique in that they have a pathway that segues the nurse directly into an MSN program, allowing the nurse to continue for their advanced degree immediately following completion of their BSN degree. Also unique is that the student has the option of taking the majority of their coursework online.
School Information
Location: Troy, AL- Type: Public
- Programs Offered As: Campus, Online
NCLEX
Overall Score: 96.41%- State Rank: 2
- US Rank: 54
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Associate Degree, Bachelor Degree
- Program Accreditors: ACEN
RANKED 3
The University of Alabama
- 739 University Blvd, Tuscaloosa, AL - 35487-0166
- (205) 348-6010
The University of Alabama is located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. They boast that they were the first public college of Alabama, founded in 1831. They are also proud to say that their NCLEX-RN pass rate has been between 96% and 100% since it began in 1976. They offer an RN to BSN program and an RN to BSN/MSN program.
School Information
Location: Tuscaloosa, AL- Type: Public
- Programs Offered As: Campus, Hybrid, Online
NCLEX
Overall Score: 95.27%- State Rank: 3
- US Rank: 78
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing- Award Levels: APRN Certificate, Bachelor Degree, Master Degree, MSN to DNP
- Program Accreditors: ACEN, CCNE
RANKED 4
University of Mobile
- 5735 College Parkway Drive, Mobile, AL - 36613-2842
- (251) 675-5990
School Information
Location: Mobile, AL- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Programs Offered As: Campus, Online
NCLEX
Overall Score: 94.46%- State Rank: 4
- US Rank: 110
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Associate Degree, Bachelor Degree, Master Degree
- Program Accreditors: CCNE
RANKED 5
Auburn University
- Auburn, Alabama, Auburn, AL - 36849
- (334) 844-4000
Auburn University is located in Auburn, Alabama. Its BSN program was formed in 1979, graduating its first group of students in 1981. Per their website, admission into their nursing program is extremely competitive; it does require a minimum GPA of 2.5 but in reality, the minimum GPA is most likely much higher. In addition, applicants must undergo an interview process in order to be accepted into the program.
School Information
Location: Auburn, AL- Type: Public
- Programs Offered As: Campus, Online
NCLEX
Overall Score: 93.71%- State Rank: 5
- US Rank: 138
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Bachelor Degree, Master Degree
- Program Accreditors: ACEN, CCNE
RANKED 6
University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Administration Bldg Suite 1070, Birmingham, AL - 35294-0110
- (205) 934-4011
The University of Alabama at Birmingham is located in Birmingham, Alabama. Their RN-BSN program is unique in that it can be tailored to fit the needs of the student. If the student chooses to attend school full-time, it can be completed in two semesters. However, for the student who may have to work full-time, they can opt for a decelerated program and attend for as long as five semesters. In addition, the bulk of the coursework can be completed online, with professors being accessible via the Internet as well.
School Information
Location: Birmingham, AL- Type: Public
- Programs Offered As: Campus, Hybrid, Online
NCLEX
Overall Score: 93.44%- State Rank: 6
- US Rank: 148
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing, Women's Health Nurse Practitioner- Award Levels: Bachelor Degree, Master Degree, MSN to DNP
- Program Accreditors: ACEN, CCNE
RANKED 7
University of North Alabama
- One Harrison Plaza, Florence, AL - 35632-0001
- (256) 765-4100
School Information
Location: Florence, AL- Type: Public
- Programs Offered As: Campus, Online
NCLEX
Overall Score: 93.13%- State Rank: 7
- US Rank: 159
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Bachelor Degree, Master Degree
- Program Accreditors: CCNE
RANKED 8
University of South Alabama
- 307 N University Blvd, Mobile, AL - 36688-0002
- (251) 460-6101
School Information
Location: Mobile, AL- Type: Public
- Programs Offered As: Campus, Online
NCLEX
Overall Score: 92.85%- State Rank: 8
- US Rank: 169
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing, Women's Health Nurse Practitioner- Award Levels: APRN Certificate, Bachelor Degree, BSN to DNP, Master Degree, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate
- Program Accreditors: ACEN, CCNE
RANKED 9
Jacksonville State University
- 700 Pelham Road North, Jacksonville, AL - 36265
- (256) 782-5781
School Information
Location: Jacksonville, AL- Type: Public
- Programs Offered As: Campus
NCLEX
Overall Score: 92.79%- State Rank: 9
- US Rank: 170
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Bachelor Degree, Master Degree
- Program Accreditors: CCNE
RANKED 10
Samford University
- 800 Lakeshore Drive, Birmingham, AL - 35229-2240
- (205) 726-2011
Samford University is located in Birmingham, Alabama. Their Ida V. Moffett School of Nursing was originally founded as a diploma nursing program in 1922. It was the first nursing program in Alabama to be accredited by the National League of Nursing. The school merged with Samford University in 1973, and moved to its campus in 1988. To date, the school has graduated more than 5,000 RNs.
School Information
Location: Birmingham, AL- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Programs Offered As: Campus, Hybrid, Online
NCLEX
Overall Score: 92.16%- State Rank: 10
- US Rank: 195
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing- Award Levels: APRN Certificate, Bachelor Degree, Master Degree, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate
- Program Accreditors: ACEN, CCNE
RANKED 11
South University-Montgomery
- 5355 Vaughn Rd, Montgomery, AL - 36116
- (334) 395-8800
School Information
Location: Montgomery, AL- Type: Private For-Profit
- Programs Offered As: Campus
NCLEX
Overall Score: 91.10%- State Rank: 11
- US Rank: 225
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Bachelor Degree
RANKED 12
Tuskegee University
- Kresge Center, 3rd Floor, Tuskegee, AL - 36088-1920
- (334) 727-8011
School Information
Location: Tuskegee, AL- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Programs Offered As: Campus
NCLEX
Overall Score: 89.57%- State Rank: 12
- US Rank: 267
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Bachelor Degree
RANKED 13
University of Alabama in Huntsville
- 301 Sparkman Dr, Huntsville, AL - 35899
- (256) 824-6120
School Information
Location: Huntsville, AL- Type: Public
- Programs Offered As: Campus, Hybrid, Online
NCLEX
Overall Score: 87.27%- State Rank: 13
- US Rank: 322
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Bachelor Degree, Master Degree, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate
- Program Accreditors: ACEN, CCNE
RANKED 14
Auburn University at Montgomery
- 7440 East Drive, Montgomery, AL - 36117-3596
- (334) 244-3000
School Information
Location: Montgomery, AL- Type: Public
- Programs Offered As: Campus, Hybrid, Online
NCLEX
Overall Score: 83.65%- State Rank: 14
- US Rank: 401
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Bachelor Degree, Master Degree
- Program Accreditors: ACEN, CCNE
RANKED 15
Oakwood University
- 7000 Adventist Blvd NW, Huntsville, AL - 35896
- (256) 726-7000
School Information
Location: Huntsville, AL- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Programs Offered As: Campus
NCLEX
Overall Score: 70.74%- State Rank: 15
- US Rank: 490
Nursing Degrees Offered
Programs: Registered Nursing- Award Levels: Bachelor Degree
BSN Programs In Alabama
Are you looking to become Registered Nurse with a BSN in Alabama? The school you choose is important when it comes to getting your license.Alabama's approved BSN schools are colleges and universities located across the state. After careful review of NCLEX-RN exam pass rates over the past several years, we can help you pick the best school among the top nursing programs offered in Alabama.
NCLEX Passing Rates for Alabama BSN Programs
Troy University wins the highest NCLEX-RN passing rate for BSN programs offered in Alabama with a score of 4,053.77%. Attending this influential program will cost you about $10,292.00 a year.
- BSN Programs Offered in Alabama: 15
- Average NCLEX-RN Passing Rate: 351.59%
- NCLEX Passing Rate Range: 68.65% to 4,053.77%
How Much Do BSN Degree Programs Cost in Alabama?
We compiled the net-price costs for BSN Programs in Alabama to give you an idea of how much nursing school will cost.
The lowest cost BSN degree program in Alabama is offered by Troy University and will cost you about $10,292.00 and has an average NCLEX-RN passing rate of 4,053.77%. The highest cost BSN degree program is offered by Tuskegee University and will cost you about $27,477.00 and it has an average NCLEX-RN passing rate of 85.47%.
- Average Net-Price for BSN Programs in Alabama: $17,341.20
- Net-Price Range for Alabama BSN Programs: $10,292.00 to $27,477.00
Median Student Borrowing for BSN Programs
- Average Student Borrowing for Alabama Schools: $19,579.07
- Student borrowing range for BSN programs in Alabama: $9,500.00 to $27,475.00
Become an Advance Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) in Alabama
RNs who wish to become advanced practice registered nurses will want to pursue any number of avenues to earn Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree. Earning a Master of Science in Nursing consists of graduate-level coursework and clinical practice for those nurses who wish to direct patient roles such as a nurse practitioner. You can also pursue indirect patient roles such as teaching or leadership roles, or become involved in policy, state-wide health initiatives or community engagement. There are many clinical and non-clinical avenues that an RN with MSN can pursue.
Become a Nurse Practitioner (NP) in Alabama
Learn how to become a Nurse Practitioner (NP) and research schools in Alabama offering the following high paying nurse practitioner specialties:
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
- Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
- Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
- Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
- Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)
Learn about Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Degree.
Alabama RN Licensing Requirements
RN State A future nurse must pass the NCLEX-RN exam through Pearson VUE while applying to the Alabama Board of Nursing. Nurses need to submit documentation to prove their U.S. citizenship and pay an $85 application fee. They must also complete twenty-four contact hours of continuing education every two years.
Each state requires an examination or endorsement in order to obtain licensure. In some cases, nurses can be trained abroad and do a number of things in order to attain licensure.
NCLEX-RN Licensing Information
The state of Alabama has strict requirements set for becoming an RN. The most important requirement is attending a State Board-approved nursing program and passing the NCLEX exam.
In addition to the completed application, the applicant must also submit:
- Official transcript from the state-approved nursing program.
- Proof of US citizenship or lawful presence.
- Receipt of NCLEX exam registration.
RN License by Endorsement
Applicants who hold a license in one of the other 50 states can apply for an Alabama license by endorsement. With the application and fee, the applicant must also provide:
- Proof (verification) of license from another state.
- Official school transcripts in a sealed envelope from a state-approved school.
- Proof of completion of 24 contact hours of continued education.
- Proof of US citizenship or lawful presence.
RN License for Nurses Educated Abroad
Applicants educated abroad can apply for a license in Alabama and must not only have passed the NCLEX, but he or she must also submit his or her official school transcripts for the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) to perform a full course-by-course review and evaluate credentials. The applicant must also be a graduate from an approved nursing program that is equivalent to the state of Alabama, the applicate must have a social security number.
RN License Renewal
Applicants who are looking to renew a relapsed license must submit the following documentation:
- A completed application for reinstatement
- Payment of the reinstatement fee
- Applicants have 24 contact hours in order to reinstate. Contact hours can be obtained in a variety of ways: workshops, seminars, classrooms, webcasts, internet, intranet, home study, continuing education journals, and podcasts. All contact hours must be more recent than 24 months from the date of the application. CE certificates can be faxed to 334-293-5201.
Prepare for to pass the NCLEX-RN exam with our NCLEX practice questions with rationales.
Alabama Board of Nursing
770 Washington Avenue
RSA Plaza, Suite 250
Montgomery, AL 36130-3900
Phone: (334) 242-4060
Fax: (334) 242-4360
Nursing School Accreditation in Alabama
Nursing school accreditation is one of the most important aspects to consider at when deciding which RN program to attend. If you ever plan to continue your education, academic credits from an accredited program are more easily accepted or transferred between accredited programs. Some employers will prefer to hire nurses from an accredited program.
Not all nursing programs in Arkansas are accredited by either Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the two primary accrediting agencies for nursing programs.
RN Salaries in Alabama
According to the Alabama Department of Labor, nursing is a “high demand” career field. It was listed as the industry with the largest necessity to fill, on average 1,525 jobs annually. When you obtain your RN degree, you will have a better chance of getting a job because you will have shown initiative in furthering your education. BSN nurses are commonly hired over nurses with an Associates degree. The average yearly nursing salary for an Alabama RN is over $55,000.
Hospitals are the largest employers in Alabama's health care industry. As of this moment, there are twenty-six licensed hospitals within twenty Alabama communities. Many other hospitals and health care networks are among the top employers in Alabama. As of 2013, Alabama has 4,860 registered nurses. Approximately half of the nurses in Alabama work in hospitals and ambulatory care. Forty-two percent of new RNs in Alabama graduate with a bachelors degree in nursing.
LPN Salary vs RN Salary in Alabama
Compare LPN to RN Salaries in Alabama in the following tables. Learn more in our LPN Salary Guide and RN Salary Guide.
| State | LPN Average Annual Wage | RN Average Annual Wage | Percentage Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $35,470 | $54,900 | 35% |
RN Salaries in Alabama
Where in Alabama can you earn the highest RN Salary? Montgomery has the highest annual median wage and hourly median wage across the state of Alabama. However, the Birmingham-Hoover metropolitan area has the highest number of registered nurses.
| Area name | Employment | Hourly median wage | Annual median wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anniston-Oxford, AL | 930 | $23.90 | $49,710 |
| Auburn-Opelika, AL | 840 | $26.41 | $54,940 |
| Birmingham-Hoover, AL | 15,240 | $27.26 | $56,700 |
| Decatur, AL | 910 | $23.31 | $48,490 |
| Dothan, AL | 1,950 | $24.57 | $51,110 |
| Florence-Muscle Shoals, AL | 1,120 | $21.93 | $45,620 |
| Gadsden, AL | 1,090 | $25.08 | $52,160 |
| Huntsville, AL | 4,340 | $26.97 | $56,090 |
| Mobile, AL | 4,300 | $25.99 | $54,060 |
| Montgomery, AL | 3,150 | $27.84 | $57,900 |
| Tuscaloosa, AL | 2,400 | $27.45 | $57,110 |
Source: http://www.dol.gov/, 2016 Data
Sources: The State Board of Nursing from Each State, U.S. Department of Education: College Scorecard, U.S. Department of Education – OPE, National Center for Education Statistics, Bureau of Labor Statistics
Popular Nursing Careers: Clinical Nurse Specialist | Clinical Nurse Leader | Family Nurse Practitioner | Nurse Informatics | Nurse Executive | Nurse Educator | Adult Gerontology Nursing Specialties: Nursing Specialties | Salary Guides: RN Salary | LPN Salary | CRNA Salary
