RN Programs in Alabama
Alabama RN Programs at a Glance
RN Programs Offered in Alabama
- ADN Programs: 27
- BSN Programs: 15
ADN Program Stats
- NCLEX-RN Average: 81%
- NCLEX Rate Range: 42% to 99%
- Average Net-Price $7,904.69
- Net-Price Range: $1,565.00 to $22,526.00
- Average Student Loan: $8,624.94
BSN Program Stats
- NCLEX-RN Average: 87%
- NCLEX Rate Range: 62% to 96%
- Average Net-Price $17,341.20
- Net-Price Range: $10,292.00 to $27,477.00
- Average Student Loan: $19,579.07
Help You Will Find on This Page
Alabama RN Program Guide
In our Alabama RN program guide, you will find both ADN and BSN Degree program rankings, tuition costs, enrollment information, NCLEX passing rates, and more. You will find key Alabama RN Program information to help you compare programs metrics and apply to best RN program(s) for the advancement of your career.
The State of Alabama offers 41 RN programs in 28 different cities. Public institutions offer 30 of the RN programs in the state while there are 5 private, for-profit and 6 private, not-for-profit schools that make up the rest.
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 are able to then obtain certification in over 100 nursing specialties.
What is the best RN program for you to attend? Your sweet spot might be the least expensive school with the highest NCLEX-RN passing rate. Or, it might the school that offers the best NCLEX-RN passing rate no matter the total cost of attendance. You may also want to consider schools with the highest enrollment rate so that you can collaborate with fellow students and have a large alumni to connect with after graduation.
Find your ideal program from information and data in our guide to Alabama RN Programs.
Accredited RN Programs in Alabama
ADN NCLEX
Coastal Alabama Community College (James H Faulkner State) – 98.50% / $7,385.00
BSN NCLEX
Troy University95.54%.
$10,292.00 a year.
ADN COSTS
LOWEST
Chattahoochee Valley Community College $1,565.0083.18%.
HIGHEST
Herzing University-Birmingham $22,526.0088.12%.
BSN COSTS
LOWEST
Troy University $10,292.0095.54%.
HIGHEST
Tuskegee University $27,477.0085.30%.
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 98.50%. Attending this stellar school will cost you about $7,385.00 a year.
- ADN Programs Offered in Alabama: 27
- Average NCLEX-RN Passing Rate: 81.20%
- NCLEX Passing Rate Range: 41.97% to 98.50%
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 Chattahoochee Valley Community College at about $1,565.00 and has an average NCLEX-RN passing rate of 83.18%. 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 88.12%.
- Average Net-Price for ADN Programs inAlabama: $7,904.69
- Net-Price Range for Alabama ADN Programs: $1,565.00 to $22,526.00
Median Student Borrowing for ADN Programs
- Average Student Borrowing for Alabama Schools: $8,624.94
- Student borrowing range for ADN programs in Alabama: $1,325.00 to $21,204.00
ADN Programs at Public or Private Institutions
- Public Institutions: 22
- Private For-Profit Institutions: 4
- Private Not-for-Profit Institutions: 1
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 95.54%. Attending this influential program will cost you about $10,292.00 a year.
- BSN Programs Offered in Alabama: 15
- Average NCLEX-RN Passing Rate: 87.01%
- NCLEX Passing Rate Range: 62.38% to 95.54%
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 95.54%. 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 85.30%.
- 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
BSN Programs at Public or Private Institutions
- Public Institutions: 9
- Private For-Profit Institutions: 1
- Private Not-for-Profit Institutions: 5
MSN Programs 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.
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.
Online Programs in Alabama
Today there are very few disadvantages to earning an online RN degree in Alabama. With advances in online learning coupled the need to educate more nurses because of the nursing shortage, many nursing schools are offing online nursing programs.
For nurses needing to complete clinicals, nursing programs usually help a nurse to find one.
Be sure to choose an accredited program that meets quality standards set by either the ACEN or CCNE accrediting agencies. An accredited online RN Nursing program will help ensure that your units pass can transfer to another accredited college and help you in gain employment. Learn more about online RN programs.
Alabama RN Licensing Requirements
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.
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
Best RN Programs in Alabama
Ranked Schools: 26
Evaluated Schools: 27
One of the best measures of a nursing program’s ability to prepare its students to become a registered nurse is to look at an institution’s first-time NCLEX-RN pass rates. We went directly to Alabama’s state board of nursing to find, report and rank the best Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs Alabama.
With more than 27 Alabama associate degree in nursing programs to choose from, we hope to provide some of the critical information you need before applying to a ADN program. We ranked the top 27 ADN degree programs in Alabama.
Research the best BSN Degrees Alabama.
For information about how we rank RN programs, please see our ranking methodology.
RANKED 1
ADN
Overall Score: 98.65%
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.
- Campus: Bay Minette, AL
- Net Price: $7,385.00
- Enrollment: 4,362
- Transfer Out Rate: 57.70%
- Loan Default Rate: 16.20%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 76.76%
- Graduation Rate: 10.00%
- Median Borrowing: $5,500.00
- Median Payment: $57.43
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s): ACEN
RANKED 2
ADN
Overall Score: 98.19%
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.
- Campus: Birmingham, AL
- Net Price: $7,375.00
- Enrollment: 3,028
- Transfer Out Rate: 41.40%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 35.72%
- Graduation Rate: 18.50%
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s): ACEN
RANKED 3
ADN
Overall Score: 95.31%
Herzing University-Birmingham
- 280 West Valley Ave, Birmingham, AL - 35209
- (205) 916-2800
- Campus: Birmingham, AL
- Net Price: $22,526.00
- Enrollment: 320
- Loan Default Rate: 16.90%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 13.08%
- Graduation Rate: 17.80%
- Median Borrowing: $14,471.00
- Median Payment: $151.09
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED 4
ADN
Overall Score: 91.16%
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.
- Campus: Hanceville, AL
- Net Price: $6,381.00
- Enrollment: 5,281
- Transfer Out Rate: 21.80%
- Loan Default Rate: 21.30%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 2.18%
- Graduation Rate: 19.50%
- Median Borrowing: $8,000.00
- Median Payment: $83.53
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s): ACEN
RANKED 5
ADN
Overall Score: 90.13%
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.
- Campus: Tuscaloosa, AL
- Net Price: $8,666.00
- Enrollment: 5,068
- Transfer Out Rate: 24.40%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 17.03%
- Graduation Rate: 8.20%
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s): ACEN
RANKED 6
ADN
Overall Score: 90.13%
Chattahoochee Valley Community College
- 2602 College Drive, Phenix City, AL - 36869
- (334) 291-4900
- Campus: Phenix City, AL
- Net Price: $1,565.00
- Enrollment: 1,837
- Transfer Out Rate: 0.40%
- Loan Default Rate: 14.90%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 567.16%
- Graduation Rate: 13.40%
- Median Borrowing: $3,913.00
- Median Payment: $40.86
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s): ACEN
RANKED 7
ADN
Overall Score: 89.94%
Snead State Community College
- 102 Elder Street, Boaz, AL - 35957-0734
- (256) 593-5120
- Campus: Boaz, AL
- Net Price: $4,670.00
- Enrollment: 2,295
- Transfer Out Rate: 18.10%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 23.19%
- Graduation Rate: 32.20%
- Median Borrowing: $2,250.00
- Median Payment: $23.49
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s): ACEN
RANKED 8
ADN
Overall Score: 89.12%
Bevill State Community College
- 1411 Indiana Avenue, Jasper, AL - 35501
- (205) 387-0511
- Campus: Jasper, AL
- Net Price: $8,219.00
- Enrollment: 3,490
- Transfer Out Rate: 22.30%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 9.85%
- Graduation Rate: 13.90%
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s): ACEN
RANKED 9
ADN
Overall Score: 88.65%
Calhoun Community College
- 6250 U S Highway 31 N, Tanner, AL - 35671
- (256) 306-2500
- Campus: Tanner, AL
- Net Price: $4,864.00
- Enrollment: 11,186
- Transfer Out Rate: 15.50%
- Loan Default Rate: 23.40%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: -7.16%
- Graduation Rate: 13.30%
- Median Borrowing: $5,501.00
- Median Payment: $57.44
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s): ACEN
RANKED 10
ADN
Overall Score: 88.57%
George C Wallace State Community College-Dothan
- 1141 Wallace Drive, Dothan, AL - 36303-9234
- (334) 983-3521
- Campus: Dothan, AL
- Net Price: $2,651.00
- Enrollment: 4,686
- Transfer Out Rate: 12.80%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 3.88%
- Graduation Rate: 14.90%
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s): ACEN
RANKED 11
ADN
Overall Score: 87.25%
Alabama Southern Community College
- 2800 South Alabama Avenue, Monroeville, AL - 36460
- (251) 575-3156
- Campus: Monroeville, AL
- Net Price: $4,553.00
- Enrollment: 1,349
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 30.98%
- Graduation Rate: 23.40%
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED 12
ADN
Overall Score: 86.86%
George C Wallace State Community College-Selma
- 3000 Earl Goodwin Parkway, Selma, AL - 36703-2808
- (334) 876-9227
- Campus: Selma, AL
- Net Price: $8,571.00
- Enrollment: 1,745
- Transfer Out Rate: 6.70%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: -9.23%
- Graduation Rate: 24.80%
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s): ACEN
RANKED 13
ADN
Overall Score: 86.82%
Jefferson State Community College
- 2601 Carson Rd, Birmingham, AL - 35215-3098
- (205) 853-1200
- Campus: Birmingham, AL
- Net Price: $8,355.00
- Enrollment: 8,542
- Transfer Out Rate: 25.10%
- Loan Default Rate: 16.60%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 0.35%
- Graduation Rate: 6.50%
- Median Borrowing: $4,500.00
- Median Payment: $46.99
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s): ACEN
RANKED 14
ADN
Overall Score: 86.22%
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.
- Campus: Wadley, AL
- Net Price: $8,146.00
- Enrollment: 4,805
- Transfer Out Rate: 20.10%
- Loan Default Rate: 22.60%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 30.09%
- Graduation Rate: 14.30%
- Median Borrowing: $5,491.00
- Median Payment: $57.33
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s): ACEN
RANKED 15
ADN
Overall Score: 85.96%
Northwest-Shoals Community College
- 800 George Wallace Blvd, Muscle Shoals, AL - 35661
- (256) 331-5200
- Campus: Muscle Shoals, AL
- Net Price: $4,871.00
- Enrollment: 3,854
- Transfer Out Rate: 21.60%
- Loan Default Rate: 26.50%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: -4.77%
- Graduation Rate: 12.70%
- Median Borrowing: $5,500.00
- Median Payment: $57.43
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s): ACEN
RANKED 16
ADN
Overall Score: 85.91%
Northeast Alabama Community College
- 138 Highway 35, Rainsville, AL - 35986
- (256) 638-4418
- Campus: Rainsville, AL
- Net Price: $2,717.00
- Enrollment: 2,834
- Transfer Out Rate: 14.50%
- Loan Default Rate: 22.60%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 84.33%
- Graduation Rate: 24.00%
- Median Borrowing: $3,500.00
- Median Payment: $36.54
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s): ACEN
RANKED 17
ADN
Overall Score: 84.74%
University of West Alabama
- Station One, Livingston, AL - 35470
- (205) 652-3400
- Campus: Livingston, AL
- Net Price: $13,231.00
- Enrollment: 1,999
- Transfer Out Rate: 34.40%
- Loan Default Rate: 9.60%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 6.81%
- Graduation Rate: 29.80%
- Median Borrowing: $14,000.00
- Median Payment: $146.18
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s): ACEN
RANKED 18
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: 84.69%
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.
- Campus: Troy, AL
- Net Price: $10,292.00
- Enrollment: 16,316
- Transfer Out Rate: 34.70%
- Loan Default Rate: 13.20%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 3.36%
- Graduation Rate: 35.50%
- Median Borrowing: $21,204.00
- Median Payment: $221.39
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s): ACEN
RANKED 19
ADN
Overall Score: 83.52%
Gadsden State Community College
- 1001 George Wallace Dr, Gadsden, AL - 35903
- (256) 549-8200
- Campus: Gadsden, AL
- Net Price: $5,341.00
- Enrollment: 5,797
- Transfer Out Rate: 14.60%
- Loan Default Rate: 28.50%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 2.77%
- Graduation Rate: 14.40%
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s): ACEN
RANKED 20
ADN
Overall Score: 83.32%
Bishop State Community College
- 351 North Broad Street, Mobile, AL - 36603-5898
- (251) 405-7000
- Campus: Mobile, AL
- Net Price: $5,105.00
- Enrollment: 3,896
- Transfer Out Rate: 9.00%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 55.12%
- Graduation Rate: 11.00%
- Median Borrowing: $1,325.00
- Median Payment: $13.83
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s): ACEN
RANKED 21
ADN
Overall Score: 79.35%
Jefferson Davis Community College
- 220 Alco Dr, Brewton, AL - 36426
- (251) 867-4832
- Campus: Brewton, AL
- Net Price: $4,108.00
- Enrollment: 1,091
- Transfer Out Rate: 15.50%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 45.06%
- Graduation Rate: 29.50%
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED 22
ADN
Overall Score: 77.17%
Lurleen B Wallace Community College
- 1000 Dannelly Blvd., Andalusia, AL - 36420-1418
- (334) 222-6591
- Campus: Andalusia, AL
- Net Price: $8,715.00
- Enrollment: 1,570
- Transfer Out Rate: 21.50%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 85.43%
- Graduation Rate: 20.60%
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s): ACEN
RANKED 23
ADN
Overall Score: 72.13%
Judson College
- 302 Bibb St, Marion, AL - 36756
- (334) 683-5100
- Campus: Marion, AL
- Net Price: $17,329.00
- Enrollment: 347
- Loan Default Rate: 11.70%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 1.84%
- Graduation Rate: 40.50%
- Median Borrowing: $18,387.00
- Median Payment: $191.98
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED 24
ADN
Overall Score: 69.98%
Central Alabama Community College
- 1675 Cherokee Rd, Alexander City, AL - 35010
- (256) 234-6346
- Campus: Alexander City, AL
- Net Price: $6,821.00
- Enrollment: 1,906
- Transfer Out Rate: 29.10%
- Loan Default Rate: 26.30%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 115.99%
- Graduation Rate: 9.10%
- Median Borrowing: $8,000.00
- Median Payment: $83.53
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s): ACEN
RANKED 25
ADN
Overall Score: 65.96%
Virginia College-Montgomery
- 6200 Atlanta Highway, Montgomery, AL - 36117-2800
- (334) 551-1500
- Campus: Montgomery, AL
- Net Price: $11,763.00
- Enrollment: 656
- Loan Default Rate: 22.20%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus, Online
- Type: Private For-Profit
- Net Price Change: -15.42%
- Graduation Rate: 7.90%
- Median Borrowing: $12,541.00
- Median Payment: $130.94
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED 26
ADN
Overall Score: 41.41%
Fortis College-Montgomery
- 3470 Eastdale Cir, Montgomery, AL - 36117
- (334) 244-1827
- Campus: Montgomery, AL
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private For-Profit
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED N/A*
ADN
Overall Score: N/A*
Virginia College-Birmingham
- 488 Palisades Blvd., Birmingham, AL - 35209
- (205) 802-1200
- Campus: Birmingham, AL
- Net Price: $11,302.00
- Enrollment: 3,741
- Transfer Out Rate: 2.20%
- Loan Default Rate: 22.20%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus, Online
- Type: Private For-Profit
- Net Price Change: -49.37%
- Graduation Rate: 57.30%
- Median Borrowing: $12,541.00
- Median Payment: $130.94
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s):
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
Nursing Specialties: Nursing Specialties | RN Salary Guide: Registered Nurse Salary | LPN Salary Guide: LPN Salary | Online Associates Nursing Program | Nursing Schools in Arizona | Nursing Schools in Maryland | RN Programs in the United States | For information about how we rank RN programs, please see our ranking methodology.
Alabama Board of Nursing
770 Washington Avenue
RSA Plaza, Suite 250
Montgomery, AL 36130-3900
Phone: (334) 242-4060
Fax: (334) 242-4360
Helpful Nursing Resources
Recent Posts
Holistic Nurse
Interested in Holistic Nursing? Learn about careers, educational requirements, salaries, …Become a Flight Nurse
Become a Flight Nurse. Learn about careers, educational requirements, salaries, …Become a Cardiac Nurse
Interested in Cardiac Nursing? Learn about careers, educational requirements, salaries, …Geriatric Nursing
Interested in Geriatric Nursing? Learn about careers, educational requirements, salaries, …How to Become a Hospice Nurse
Interested in Hospice Nursing? Learn about careers, educational requirements, salaries, …Massachusetts NP State Guide
With the primary care physician shortage there is an increasing …Parish Nursing
Learn about Parish Nurse educational requirements, salaries, job outlook, required …Public Health Nurse
Learn about Public Health Nurse educational requirements, salaries, job outlook, …Wound Care Nurse
Want to become a Wound Care Nurse? Learn about careers, …Legal Nurse Consultant
Research Legal Nurse Consultant careers, educational requirements, salaries, job outlook, …
Ranked Schools: 15
Evaluated Schools: 15
One of the best measures of a nursing program’s ability to prepare its students to become a registered nurse is to look at an institution’s first-time NCLEX-RN pass rates. We went directly to Alabama’s state board of nursing to find, report and rank the best BSN degree programs Alabama.
With more than 15 Alabama BSN degree programs to choose from, we hope to provide you some of the critical information you may need before applying to a BSN degree program. We ranked the top 15 BSN degree programs in Alabama.
Research the best ADN Programs in Alabama.
For information about how we rank RN programs, please see our ranking methodology.
RANKED 1
BSN
Overall Score: 100.00%
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.
- Campus: Mobile, AL
- Net Price: $20,757.00
- Enrollment: 1,292
- Loan Default Rate: 8.10%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 14.36%
- Graduation Rate: 56.30%
- Median Borrowing: $25,000.00
- Median Payment: $261.03
- Award Levels: Bachelor, Masters
- Program Accreditation(s): CCNE
RANKED 2
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: 96.13%
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.
- Campus: Troy, AL
- Net Price: $10,292.00
- Enrollment: 16,316
- Transfer Out Rate: 34.70%
- Loan Default Rate: 13.20%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 3.36%
- Graduation Rate: 35.50%
- Median Borrowing: $21,204.00
- Median Payment: $221.39
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s): ACEN
RANKED 3
BSN
Overall Score: 94.91%
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.
- Campus: Birmingham, AL
- Net Price: $25,626.00
- Enrollment: 3,013
- Loan Default Rate: 1.30%
- Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus, Hybrid
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 13.86%
- Graduation Rate: 69.20%
- Median Borrowing: $26,000.00
- Median Payment: $271.47
- Award Levels: APRN Certificate, Bachelor, Masters, MSN to DNP, Post Master\'s NP Certificate
- Program Accreditation(s): ACEN, CCNE
RANKED 4
BSN
Overall Score: 94.16%
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.
- Campus: Tuscaloosa, AL
- Net Price: $19,042.00
- Enrollment: 29,440
- Transfer Out Rate: 22.10%
- Loan Default Rate: 8.10%
- Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus, Hybrid, Online
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 17.15%
- Graduation Rate: 66.70%
- Median Borrowing: $21,250.00
- Median Payment: $221.87
- Award Levels: APRN Certificate, Bachelor, Masters, MSN to DNP
- Program Accreditation(s): ACEN, CCNE
RANKED 5
BSN
Overall Score: 93.07%
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.
- Campus: Birmingham, AL
- Net Price: $13,745.00
- Enrollment: 11,502
- Transfer Out Rate: 23.60%
- Loan Default Rate: 8.00%
- 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
- Offered as: Campus, Hybrid
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 2.78%
- Graduation Rate: 53.50%
- Median Borrowing: $16,966.00
- Median Payment: $177.14
- Award Levels: Bachelor, Masters, MSN to DNP
- Program Accreditation(s): ACEN, CCNE
RANKED 6
BSN
Overall Score: 93.00%
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.
- Campus: Auburn, AL
- Net Price: $17,014.00
- Enrollment: 19,799
- Transfer Out Rate: 22.40%
- Loan Default Rate: 6.10%
- Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus, Online
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 20.78%
- Graduation Rate: 67.90%
- Median Borrowing: $20,500.00
- Median Payment: $214.04
- Award Levels: Bachelor, Masters
- Program Accreditation(s): ACEN, CCNE
RANKED 7
BSN
Overall Score: 91.50%
University of North Alabama
- One Harrison Plaza, Florence, AL - 35632-0001
- (256) 765-4100
- Campus: Florence, AL
- Net Price: $10,370.00
- Enrollment: 5,881
- Transfer Out Rate: 36.10%
- Loan Default Rate: 13.40%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus, Online
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 27.99%
- Graduation Rate: 32.20%
- Median Borrowing: $13,000.00
- Median Payment: $135.73
- Award Levels: Bachelor, Masters
- Program Accreditation(s): CCNE
RANKED 8
BSN
Overall Score: 90.06%
Jacksonville State University
- 700 Pelham Road North, Jacksonville, AL - 36265
- (256) 782-5781
- Campus: Jacksonville, AL
- Net Price: $12,020.00
- Enrollment: 7,588
- Loan Default Rate: 11.30%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 8.53%
- Graduation Rate: 30.80%
- Median Borrowing: $17,500.00
- Median Payment: $182.72
- Award Levels: Bachelor, Masters
- Program Accreditation(s): CCNE
RANKED 9
BSN
Overall Score: 88.49%
University of Mobile
- 5735 College Parkway Drive, Mobile, AL - 36613-2842
- (251) 675-5990
- Campus: Mobile, AL
- Net Price: $18,204.00
- Enrollment: 1,481
- Loan Default Rate: 3.50%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 5.55%
- Graduation Rate: 49.30%
- Median Borrowing: $25,000.00
- Median Payment: $261.03
- Award Levels: Bachelor, Masters
- Program Accreditation(s): CCNE
RANKED 10
BSN
Overall Score: 87.84%
University of South Alabama
- 307 N University Blvd, Mobile, AL - 36688-0002
- (251) 460-6101
- Campus: Mobile, AL
- Net Price: $11,105.00
- Enrollment: 11,307
- Transfer Out Rate: 19.10%
- Loan Default Rate: 7.10%
- 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
- Offered as: Campus, Online
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 34.31%
- Graduation Rate: 33.20%
- Median Borrowing: $14,855.00
- Median Payment: $155.10
- Award Levels: APRN Certificate, Bachelor, BSN to DNP, Masters, MSN to DNP, Post Master\'s NP Certificate
- Program Accreditation(s): ACEN, CCNE
RANKED 11
BSN
Overall Score: 87.71%
University of Alabama in Huntsville
- 301 Sparkman Dr, Huntsville, AL - 35899
- (256) 824-6120
- Campus: Huntsville, AL
- Net Price: $13,208.00
- Enrollment: 5,696
- Transfer Out Rate: 31.40%
- Loan Default Rate: 7.70%
- Programs: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus, Hybrid, Online
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 0.40%
- Graduation Rate: 48.40%
- Median Borrowing: $18,000.00
- Median Payment: $187.94
- Award Levels: Bachelor, Masters, MSN to DNP, Post Master\'s NP Certificate
- Program Accreditation(s): ACEN, CCNE
RANKED 12
BSN
Overall Score: 86.95%
Tuskegee University
- Kresge Center, 3rd Floor, Tuskegee, AL - 36088-1920
- (334) 727-8011
- Campus: Tuskegee, AL
- Net Price: $27,477.00
- Enrollment: 2,584
- Transfer Out Rate: 13.70%
- Loan Default Rate: 13.00%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 21.77%
- Graduation Rate: 43.80%
- Median Borrowing: $27,475.00
- Median Payment: $286.87
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED 13
BSN
Overall Score: 85.67%
Auburn University at Montgomery
- 7440 East Drive, Montgomery, AL - 36117-3596
- (334) 244-3000
- Campus: Montgomery, AL
- Net Price: $11,726.00
- Enrollment: 4,322
- Transfer Out Rate: 37.70%
- Loan Default Rate: 13.10%
- Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus, Hybrid, Online
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 21.34%
- Graduation Rate: 27.10%
- Median Borrowing: $11,525.00
- Median Payment: $120.33
- Award Levels: Bachelor, Masters
- Program Accreditation(s): ACEN, CCNE
RANKED 14
BSN
Overall Score: 76.16%
South University-Montgomery
- 5355 Vaughn Rd, Montgomery, AL - 36116
- (334) 395-8800
- Campus: Montgomery, AL
- Net Price: $22,724.00
- Enrollment: 599
- Transfer Out Rate: 2.00%
- Loan Default Rate: 23.10%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private For-Profit
- Net Price Change: -15.60%
- Graduation Rate: 7.80%
- Median Borrowing: $9,500.00
- Median Payment: $99.19
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED 15
BSN
Overall Score: 75.30%
Oakwood University
- 7000 Adventist Blvd NW, Huntsville, AL - 35896
- (256) 726-7000
- Campus: Huntsville, AL
- Net Price: $26,808.00
- Enrollment: 1,861
- Loan Default Rate: 10.70%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 5.59%
- Graduation Rate: 36.80%
- Median Borrowing: $25,911.00
- Median Payment: $270.54
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s):
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
Nursing Specialties: Nursing Specialties | RN Salary Guide: Registered Nurse Salary | LPN Salary Guide: LPN Salary | Online Associates Nursing Program | Nursing Schools in Arizona | Nursing Schools in Maryland | RN Programs in the United States | For information about how we rank RN programs, please see our ranking methodology.
Alabama Board of Nursing
770 Washington Avenue
RSA Plaza, Suite 250
Montgomery, AL 36130-3900
Phone: (334) 242-4060
Fax: (334) 242-4360
Helpful Nursing Resources
Recent Posts
Holistic Nurse
Interested in Holistic Nursing? Learn about careers, educational requirements, salaries, …Become a Flight Nurse
Become a Flight Nurse. Learn about careers, educational requirements, salaries, …Become a Cardiac Nurse
Interested in Cardiac Nursing? Learn about careers, educational requirements, salaries, …Geriatric Nursing
Interested in Geriatric Nursing? Learn about careers, educational requirements, salaries, …How to Become a Hospice Nurse
Interested in Hospice Nursing? Learn about careers, educational requirements, salaries, …Massachusetts NP State Guide
With the primary care physician shortage there is an increasing …Parish Nursing
Learn about Parish Nurse educational requirements, salaries, job outlook, required …Public Health Nurse
Learn about Public Health Nurse educational requirements, salaries, job outlook, …Wound Care Nurse
Want to become a Wound Care Nurse? Learn about careers, …Legal Nurse Consultant
Research Legal Nurse Consultant careers, educational requirements, salaries, job outlook, …
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