2022 - Best Nursing Schools in Rhode Island

Overview of Nursing Schools in Rhode Island

About Nursing Schools in Rhode Island

New healthcare initiatives in Rhode Island have presented nurses with new challenges to face. Some of the challenges that will present themselves include: an aging population, health care reforms, new preventative care initiatives, and the constant evolution of medical technology. There are registered nurses taking the initiative every day and pursuing higher education in order to meet these challenges. An educated nurse is a very powerful member of the healthcare industry. Nurses have busy schedules and life can become more hectic when schooling is added into the mix. Finding the school with the best program can be overwhelming but, at the end of the day, it is worth it.

In our Rhode Island RN program guide, find rankings for both ADN and BSN Degree programs, tuition costs, NCLEX passing rates, and more. Research key Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island, 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.

Rhode Island RN Program Comparisons: ADN vs BSN

Nursing Programs Offered by Rhode Island Nursing Schools

• Registered Nursing: 5
• Family Nurse Practitioner: 2
• Adult Acute Care Nurse Practitioner: 1
• Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner: 1
• CNL: 1

Rhode Island Nursing Schools with the Most Degree Types

• University of Rhode Island: 4
• Salve Regina University: 2
• Rhode Island College: 2
• Community College of Rhode Island: 1
• New England Institute of Technology: 1

Best Ranked RN Programs in Rhode Island

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 Rhode Island and the country. Schools ranked on our list have proven their ability to educate highly competent nurses.

To create our rankings, we evaluated 2 ADN degree programs and 3 BSN degree programs in Rhode Island. 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 Rhode Island to provide our state rankings. View our methodology. 

Become an Advance Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) in Rhode Island

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 Rhode Island

Learn how to become a Nurse Practitioner (NP) and research schools in Rhode Island offering the following high paying nurse practitioner specialties:

• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Learn about Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Degree.

Rhode Island  RN Licensing Requirements

Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing
PO Box 2649
Harrisburg, PA 17105-2649
(717) 783-7142

Fees:
Initial licensing fee, RN: $35
License renewal (every two years), RN: $65; LPN: $60

Continuing Education Requirements:
RNs: 30 contact hours every renewal period; LPNs: None

RN Licensure by Exams

When a candidate has completed an approved nursing program, he/she will be authorized to work as a Graduate Professional Nurse (GN) while waiting to take the NCLEX. A GN permit is only good for 90 days. Before the candidate is able to apply to the Board, he/she must register for the exam and pay the $200 fee. When the candidate has submitted a background check and a transcript he/she will pay the $135 application fee. When authorization to test has been received, the candidate will be able to schedule the exam. The exam may be retaken but it will require additional fees and paperwork.

RN Licensure by Endorsement

Nurses who obtained licensure in one of the other 50 states may apply for licensure in Rhode Island by endorsement. The candidate will be required to provide verification of licensure.

RN License for Nurses Educated Abroad

Nurses who were educated outside of the United States may be eligible for licensure by examination if the credentials have been evaluated and are found to be at an appropriate level. Candidates will be required to pass an English language proficiency exam.

RN Salaries in Rhode Island

Registered nurses who have obtained a BSN will have a wide selection of positions available to them. Nurses are able to work in specialty areas such as executive positions and certified areas. Some career choices that are available to a baccalaureate prepare nurse include:

• Nursing Educators
• Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB/GYN)
• Certified Pediatric Nurses

Source: BLS, Department of Education, State Board of Nursing, Nursing School Websites.