Nebraska’s Top-Rated Nursing Schools and Programs of 2024
Have you considered becoming a nurse? Nebraska is a great place to start your nursing career. Nebraska has a projected registered nurse (RN) growth rate of 8% between 2020-2030, which is just above the national RN growth rate of 6% between 2021-2031. Having a predicted 1,700 RN job openings in Nebraska annually means there will be plenty of RN jobs to choose from.
The Cornhusker State was ranked the 4th best state by US News. Nebraska is known for its agriculture, with corn being its leading crop, and is also home to many cattle ranches. There are plenty of places to explore the outdoors in Nebraska. From Snake River Falls, the Nebraska National Forest, and Lake McConaughy, you will have endless opportunities to go hiking, biking, fishing, and much more.
Nebraska also offers a low cost of living, with lower prices for housing, groceries, utilities, and healthcare. This means your money will stretch further, allowing you to pay off debts or plan for that dream vacation.
Healthcare is affordable in Nebraska, making it easier for residents to receive the care they need so that they can remain healthy and happy. Offering plenty of great clinics and hospitals makes Nebraska a great place to work as an RN.
The Best Nursing Schools in Nebraska.
Learn more about the best nursing schools in Nebraska to help determine which college may be best for you.
Our site has ranked the best nursing schools in Nebraska based on the NCLEX-RN pass rates posted on the Nebraska 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 Nebraska ADN Nursing Program
Metropolitan Community College
Metropolitan Community College is a public community college in Omaha, Nebraska. It offers an ADN program that prepares students to be nurses by teaching them the best practices for helping patients and providing care through instruction, labs, and clinical experience. Graduates of this program are ready to work in entry-level RN positions in various healthcare settings.
Average Tuition
In-State: $3,195
Out-of-State: $4,680
Show More
| Average In-State Tuition |
$3,195 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$4,680 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2022 |
84.06% |
| Program Completion Rate 2021-2022 |
57.1% |
| Job Placement 2020 |
87.1% |
| Students Enrolled |
20,980 |
| Institution Type |
Public Community College |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
Not given |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) |
#2 Nebraska ADN Nursing Program
Southeast Community College
Southeast Community College is a public community college in Lincoln, Nebraska. They offer an ADN and licensed practical nurse (LPN) to RN programs that prepare students for entry-level practice as nurses. With an intensive curriculum, students will excel in nursing core courses and practice with competence, confidence, and compassion.
Average Tuition
In-State: $2,736
Out-of-State: $3,240
Show More
| Average In-State Tuition |
$2,736 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$3,240 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2022 |
83.64% |
| Program Completion Rate 2019-2020 |
96% |
| Job Placement 2020 |
Not given |
| Students Enrolled |
9,328 |
| Institution Type |
Public Community College |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
Not given |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the ACEN |
#3 Nebraska ADN Nursing Program
Northeast Community College
Northeast Community College is a public community college in Norfolk, Nebraska. The 72 credit hours for the program can be completed in two years when attending full-time. If you are currently an LPN, you can apply for the LPN to RN program to complete your RN in one year. Students will learn the art and science of nursing through a combination of theory and clinical courses offered in various healthcare settings. Northwest Community College also has state-of-the-art simulations to create hands-on learning experiences. Graduates are prepared for entry-level nursing positions upon completion of the program.
Average Tuition
In-State: $3,750
Out-of-State: $5,010
Show More
| Average In-State Tuition |
$3,750 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$5,010 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2022 |
83.33% |
| Program Completion Rate 2022 |
90.2% |
| Job Placement 2021 |
Not given |
| Students Enrolled |
5,219 |
| Institution Type |
Public Community College |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
39% |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the ACEN |
BSN Programs:
#1 Nebraska BSN Nursing Program
Union College
Union College is a private Seventh-day Adventist college in Lincoln, Nebraska. They offer a BSN program that is among one of the best in the nation, with consistently high NCLEX-RN pass rates. At Union College, students can enjoy the benefits of small class sizes and access to a state-of-the-art simulation center that provides hands-on training in a hospital-like setting. With the help of patient volunteers and advanced simulators, students can gain valuable experience in patient care. Additionally, Union College provides opportunities for students to travel to developing nations and run medical clinics in remote areas with limited access to modern medical care. Students attending the nursing program at Union College receive the support they need to be successful in the program so they can become RNs.
Average Tuition
In-State: $26,060
Out-of-State: $26,060
Show More
| Average In-State Tuition |
$26,060 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$26,060 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2021 |
97.5% |
| Admission Rate |
99% |
| Retention Rate |
82% |
| Students Enrolled |
744 |
| Institution Type |
Private Seventh-day Adventist College |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
Not given |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) |
#2 Nebraska BSN Nursing Program
Clarkson College
Clarkson College is a private college in Omaha, Nebraska that focuses on health sciences. Originating as the first school of nursing in Nebraska, Clarkson College offers an LPN to BSN program, an undergraduate BSN program, or an RN to BSN program. Their programs combine a foundation in science and humanities and a nursing-specific course that allow students to excel within various healthcare environments. Students will learn to apply their critical thinking skills to deliver client-centered and family-centered care for a diverse population while developing their nurse leadership skills.
Average Tuition
In-State: $14,880
Out-of-State: $14,880
Show More
| Average In-State Tuition |
$14,880 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$14,880 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2020-2021 |
94.95% |
| Admission Rate |
96% |
| Retention Rate |
59% |
| Students Enrolled |
1,180 |
| Institution Type |
Private College |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
90% |
| Accreditation |
Yes- by the CCNE |
#3 Nebraska BSN Nursing Program
Bryan College of Health Sciences
Bryan College of Health Sciences is a private college located in Lincoln and Hastings, Nebraska. The institution provides a BSN program that equips students with personalized and comprehensive training to prepare them for diverse nursing roles in different healthcare environments. Students participate in skills labs, simulation centers, and clinical rotations at different healthcare facilities to facilitate practical learning. Upon four months of graduation, 100% of graduates of the nursing program at Bryan College of Health Sciences have successfully been hired to work as a nurse.
Average Tuition
In-State: $17,766
Out-of-State: $17,766
Show More
| Average In-State Tuition |
$17,766 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$17,766 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2022 |
92% |
| Admission Rate |
90.9% |
| Retention Rate |
76% |
| Students Enrolled |
744 |
| Institution Type |
Private College |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
49% |
| Accreditation |
Yes- by the ACEN |
How to Choose a Nursing Program in Nebraska
When choosing a nursing program in Nebraska 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, 9 ADN and 6 BSN programs in Nebraska are fully accredited.
Why Become a Nurse in Nebraska
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 6% growth in nursing employment nationwide, and Nebraska estimates a nursing growth of 8% from 2020-2030. This means there will be plenty of jobs to choose from.
US News ranks Nebraska as the 4th best state overall, ranking 23rd in healthcare. The state is ranked 20th for healthcare access, 28th for healthcare quality, and 18th for public health. Residents and visitors of Nebraska can receive high-quality care when needed so they can remain healthy.
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that RNs in Nebraska earn an average annual salary of $73,510, which is below the national average. However, Nebraska’s living cost is low, so your dollar will stretch further.
Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Nebraska
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average mean wage for an RN in Nebraska is $73,510, and it employs 19,870 nurses. Nebraska also employs 1,610 advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who earn a median annual wage of $118,970.
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 Nebraska for RNs |
| Omaha-Council Bluffs, NE-IA |
$75,150 |
| Lincoln, NE |
$73,880 |
| Grand Island, NE |
$73,130 |
Citation: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, at https://data.bls.gov/oes/#/home (visited February 25, 2022).
Steps to Becoming a Nurse in Nebraska
To become an RN and advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), candidates must complete a program approved by the Nebraska 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 Nebraska, you must complete the following requirements:
RN Requirements
These are the steps to take to become an RN in Nebraska:
- 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 Nebraska RN license, you must renew it every two years. Nebraska RN licenses expire on October 31st of even-numbered years. RNs must meet one of the following competency requirements before license renewal:
- Have practiced for at least 500 hours during the past five years AND completed at least 20 contact hours of continuing education from an approved provider in the past two years.
- Have graduated from a nursing program in more than two, but less than five years, AND have completed at least 20 contact hours of nursing continuing education within the past two years.
- Have graduated from a nursing program within the last two years.
- Have completed an approved refresher course within the last five years.
- Have obtained/maintained current certification in a nursing specialty or granted by a nationally recognized certifying organization.
- Have developed and maintained a portfolio that includes the licensee’s current continuing competency goals and evidence/verification of professional activities to meet those goals.
APRN Requirements
These are the steps to become an APRN in Nebraska:
- Candidates must hold an active RN license to practice in Nebraska.
- 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 Anesthetists
- American Academy of Nurse Practitioners
- Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation
- American Association of Critical-Care Nurses
- Nebraska APRN licenses must be renewed every two years before October 31st of even-numbered years. If you have a prescribed DEA license, you must complete three hours of continuing education in opiate prescribing for 2020-2028 renewals.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Nebraska
Is Nebraska a good place for nurses to work?
Nebraska is a great place to work. Nebraska is ranked the fourth best state to live in the nation and is ranked 23rd for overall healthcare. Nebraska has good healthcare access, which means its residents are able to receive the care they need when they need it.
Is Nebraska a compact state for nursing?
Yes. Nebraska is a compact state for nursing. This means that RNs issued by your primary state of residence will be recognized in Nebraska and vice versa.
What are the requirements for RNs in Nebraska?
After completing an accredited nursing program, you must successfully pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Once you have been issued your Nebraska RN license, you must renew it every two years before October 31st of even-numbered years. Before license renewal, you must complete 20 continuing education credits per two-year licensing period and practice nursing for at least 500 hours in the past five years.
How much does a Nebraska RN license cost?
Nebraska licensing fees by examination are $200. Licensing fee by endorsement in Nebraska is $123. Applicants will also need to complete a background check which is $45.25 and submit fingerprints for a fee of $45.25. To renew your Nebraska RN license, it costs $123.
