Missouri’s Top-Rated Nursing Schools and Programs of 2024
If you’ve been thinking about becoming a nurse in Missouri, now is the perfect time. There continues to be a shortage of nurses, with a national growth rate of nurses of 6% between 2021-2031. Missouri has a projected registered nurse (RN) growth rate of 7% between 2020-2030, with 4,410 RN job openings annually. This means there will be plenty of RN jobs to choose from.
Missouri uniquely blends natural beauty, cultural attractions, and friendly communities. It has abundant outdoor and recreational opportunities where residents and visitors can go hiking, camping, fishing, and explore nature. It also has a thriving arts and music scene with numerous museums, galleries, and performing arts centers.
The cost of living in Missouri is low when compared to other states. The price of homes and rent is cheaper, with a lower overall tax burden than in other states.
When considering attending college in Missouri, it is known for having affordable colleges that rank high for student satisfaction and quality of education. The state contains a variety of public and private universities, small liberal arts colleges, and community or technical colleges. This makes getting your nursing degree more affordable.
The Best Nursing Schools in Missouri
Learn more about the best nursing schools in Missouri to help determine which college may be best for you.
Our site has ranked the best nursing schools in Missouri based on the NCLEX-RN pass rates posted on the Missouri Board of Nursing website. The schools are categorized into Associate Degree Nursing programs (ADN) and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs.
ADN Programs:
#1 Missouri ADN Nursing Program
State Technical College of Missouri
State Technical College of Missouri is a public technical school in Linn, Missouri. They offer an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS-N). Their program focuses on the nursing process, critical thinking skills, managing the care of clients in the inpatient setting, and client safety. Students get hands-on learning opportunities in the state-of-the-art simulation and practice lab that helps them gain the knowledge and skills necessary to become a nurse.
Average Tuition
In-State: $7,440
Out-of-State: $13,320
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| Average In-State Tuition |
$7,440 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$13,320 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2022 |
100% |
| Program Completion Rate 2021-2022 |
Not given |
| Job Placement 2021 |
100% |
| Students Enrolled |
1,756 |
| Institution Type |
Public Community College |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
Not given |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the Missouri State Board of Nursing (MSBN) |
#2 Missouri ADN Nursing Program
Ozarks Technical Community College
Ozarks Technical Community College is a public community college in Springfield, Missouri. They offer an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program designed as a licensed practical nurse (LPN) to RN or paramedic to RN course of study. This program allows current LPNs or paramedics to complete their RN nursing courses in 36 weeks. Their mission is to prepare students to provide quality healthcare and function as interdisciplinary health team members.
Average Tuition
In-State: $5,216
Out-of-State: $6,368
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| Average In-State Tuition |
$5,216 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$6,368 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2022 |
100% |
| Program Completion Rate 2020 |
68% |
| Job Placement 2020 |
98% |
| Students Enrolled |
11,237 |
| Institution Type |
Public Community College |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
50% |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the Accrediting Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) |
#3 Missouri ADN Nursing Program
State Fair Community College
State Fair Community College is a public community college in Sedalia, Missouri. They offer an ASN degree program that allows students to get their LPN license after their first year of schooling and then continue for their RN license. This program teaches students professionalism and empathy for others, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, strong observation and critical thinking skills, physical strength, and sufficient motor function so students are prepared for entry-level RN positions upon graduation.
Average Tuition
In-State: $5,112
Out-of-State: $6,648
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| Average In-State Tuition |
$5,112 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$6,648 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2022 |
95.92% |
| Program Completion Rate 2022 |
Not given |
| Job Placement |
Not given |
| Students Enrolled |
3,928 |
| Institution Type |
Public Community College |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
71% |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the MSBN |
BSN Programs:
#1 Missouri BSN Nursing Program
College of the Ozarks
The College of the Ozarks is a private Christian college in Point Lookout, Missouri. They offer a BSN program that can be completed in four years. Students are given hands-on learning opportunities through simulation, skills labs, and clinical rotations at various healthcare settings. The program’s mission is to present a Christ-centered, Biblically-based, character-driven nursing education program while preparing qualified individuals for a spiritual role as a professional nurse providing service to Christ and humankind.
Average Tuition
In-State: $20,290
Out-of-State: $20,290
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| Average In-State Tuition |
$20,290 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$20,290 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2022 |
100% |
| Admission Rate |
21% |
| Retention Rate |
63% |
| Students Enrolled |
1,479 |
| Institution Type |
Private Christian College |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
Not given |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) |
#2 Missouri BSN Nursing Program
University of Missouri-Kansas City
The University of Missouri-Kansas City is a public university located in Kansas City, Missouri. They offer a BSN program that prepares students for a nursing career in various healthcare settings. Students get hands-on learning opportunities in the simulation and skills labs, clinical rotations, and internship opportunities.
Average Tuition
In-State: $10,599
Out-of-State: $26,235
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| Average In-State Tuition |
$10,599 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$26,235 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2022 |
98.31% |
| Admission Rate |
69% |
| Retention Rate |
57% |
| Students Enrolled |
16,003 |
| Institution Type |
Public University |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
44% |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the CCNE |
#3 Missouri BSN Nursing Program
University of Central Missouri
The University of Central Missouri is a public university located in Warrensburg, Missouri. They offer an RN to BSN program and a traditional RN program. Their in-person BSN program features a prelicensure option to provide nursing students with clinical experience to practice skills and help prepare them for the NCLEX-RN exam. Students will take a mixture of theory, clinical, and practicum courses where they will gain hands-on learning opportunities.
Upon graduation, students are prepared for entry-level RN positions.
Average Tuition
In-State: $9,413
Out-of-State: $17,453
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| Average In-State Tuition |
$9,413 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$17,453 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2022 |
96.2% |
| Admission Rate |
71% |
| Retention Rate |
75% |
| Students Enrolled |
7,577 |
| Institution Type |
Public University |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
Not given |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the CCNE |
How to Choose a Nursing Program in Missouri
When choosing a nursing program in Missouri, you will want to look at the NCLEX-RN pass rates, admission, and retention rates, and job placement rates. Programs with a high NCLEX-RN pass rate provide their students with the tools and support to succeed and prepare them well to be RNs. You may also want to consider the cost of the program and scholarship opportunities, as a BSN program usually takes longer to complete. However, most ADN programs require you to meet your general education requirements before entering the program, so make sure you know what is required before entering the program.
Accreditation is important when choosing a nursing program. Some schools may transfer credits earned while receiving your RN, and some employers may only hire nurses who have completed their degrees through an accredited program. Currently, 42 ADN and 36 BSN programs in Missouri are fully accredited.
Why Become a Nurse in Missouri
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 6% growth in nursing employment nationwide, and Missouri estimates a nursing growth of 7% from 2020-2030. This means there will be plenty of jobs to choose from.
US News ranks Missouri as the 30th best state overall, with healthcare ranking 39th. The state is ranked 33rd for healthcare access, 38th for healthcare quality, and 40th for public health. Being a nurse in Missouri means you can make a significant impact on the health of your community.
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that RNs in Missouri earn an average annual salary of $71,860. While this is below the national average, the cost of living in Missouri is below average, which means that your dollar will stretch further.
Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Missouri
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average mean wage for an RN in Missouri is $71,860, and it employs 70,440 nurses. Missouri also employs 7,290 advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who earn a median annual wage of $113,180.
The projected nationwide employment growth rate for registered nurses between 2021 and 2031 is 6%, with an anticipated 203,200 yearly job openings. Many of these job openings are expected due to workers retiring or transferring to different occupations.
| Top Paying Cities in Missouri for RNs |
| Kansas City, MO |
$76,580 |
| St. Louis, MO-IL |
$75,170 |
| St. Joseph, MO-KS |
$71,640 |
Citation: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, at https://data.bls.gov/oes/#/home (visited February 25, 2022).
To become an RN and advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), candidates must complete a program approved by the Missouri Board of Nursing. Upon completing an approved nursing program, candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
After gaining experience as an RN, some nurses return to school to obtain their APRN.
After you have completed an APRN program, you will need to take the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) exam or the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) exam.
Maintaining your nursing license requires meeting specific requirements. To become a nurse in Missouri, you must complete the following requirements:
RN Requirements
These are the steps to take to become an RN in Missouri:
- Enroll in an Associate Degree in Nursing Program (ADN) OR a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program (BSN).
- An ADN program usually takes two years, while a BSN program usually takes four years to complete. Courses can be taken in person or online. However, both programs may offer a part-time track that will take longer.
- After completing your chosen nursing program, you will be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam. In addition, you must submit your transcripts, proof of graduation, proof of primary residence, and complete a fingerprint and criminal background check to the state board of nursing to receive your license.
- Once you have been issued your first Missouri RN license, you must renew it every two years. Missouri RN licenses expire on 4/30 of each odd-numbered year. No continuing education hours are required before license renewal.
APRN Requirements
These are the steps to become an APRN in Missouri:
- Candidates must hold an active RN license to practice in Missouri.
- RNs must have earned their BSN before entering an APRN program.
- RNs must enter an accredited nursing program to earn their Master of Science in Nursing or Doctor of Nursing Practice.
- Once an APRN program has successfully been completed, you will be required to pass the certification exam and hold and maintain current certification as a nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, or nurse anesthetist from one of the following national organizations:
- American Nurses Credentialing Center
- National Certification Corporation for the Obstetric.
- Gynecologic
- Neonatal Nursing Specialties
- Pediatric Nursing Certification Board
- American Association of Nurse Anesthetist
- American Academy of Nurse Practitioners
- Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation
- Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation
- In Missouri, the APRN is not a license but a document of recognition with no expiration date. No continuing education hours are required to maintain this recognition.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Missouri
Is Missouria a good place for nurses to work?
Missouri is a great place to work. Nurses have a lot of opportunities for growth in Missouri and have opportunities to make a significant impact on their communities.
Is Missouri a compact state for nursing?
Yes. Missouri is a compact state for nursing. This means that RNs issued by your primary state of residence will be recognized in Missouri and vice versa.
What are the requirements for RNs in Missouri?
After completing an accredited nursing program, you must successfully pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Once you have been issued your Missouri RN license, you must renew it every two years. Missouri RN licenses expire on 4/30 of each odd-numbered year. No continuing education hours are required before license renewal.
How much does a Missouri RN license cost?
Missouri licensing fees by examination is $200, with an additional $41.75 for a criminal background check. Licensing fee by endorsement in Missouri is $105. To renew your Missouri RN license, it costs $60.
