Rhode Island’s Top-Rated Nursing Schools and Programs of 2024
The nursing national growth rate is predicted to grow faster than most professions, with a predicted growth rate of 6% for registered nurses (RNs) nationwide between 2021-2031. There is a predicted 5% growth rate of RNs in Rhode Island between 2020-2040, with 740 annual openings. This increased demand for nurses makes it the perfect time to become a nurse in Rhode Island.
Living in Rhode Island offers a unique and enriching experience. The small state fosters a strong sense of community and close-knit neighborhoods, creating a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The state’s small size allows convenient access to its amenities and attractions, like its beautiful beaches, historical landmarks, and vibrant cultural events. It also offers many opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring.
Rhode Island’s central location on the East Coast makes it a great place to explore the surrounding region. Its proximity to major cities like Boston and New York gives residents easy access to various entertainment and career opportunities.
U.S. News ranks Rhode Island second in the nation for healthcare, showing strengths in healthcare access, healthcare quality, and public health. Additionally, Rhode Island is known for its exceptional education system. It has renowned universities and colleges, making it the perfect place to pursue your nursing education.
The Best Nursing Schools in Rhode Island
Learn more about the best nursing schools in Rhode Island to help determine which college may be best for you.
Our site has ranked the best nursing schools in Rhode Island based on the NCLEX-RN pass rates posted on the Rhode Island State Board of Nursing website.
Nursing Programs:
#1 Nursing Program
Community College of Rhode Island
The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) is a public community college with campuses located in Warwick, Providence, Newport, and Lincoln, Rhode Island. They offer the state’s only public Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program. CCRI allows students to acquire knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for developing effective communication, critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and teamwork/collaboration skills. Graduates of the program are prepared for entry-level RN positions in various healthcare settings.
Average Tuition
In-State: $4,980
Out-of-State: $13,260
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| Average In-State Tuition |
$4,980 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$13,260 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate Fiscal Year 2022 |
83.68% |
| Program Completion Rate 2022 |
82.9% |
| Job Placement 2021 |
90% |
| Students Enrolled |
11,962 |
| Institution Type |
Public Community College |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
Not given |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) |
#2 Nursing Program
Rhode Island College
Rhode Island College is a public college in Providence, Rhode Island. They offer a BSN program that integrates knowledge of the arts and sciences with nursing theory to provide a framework for professional practice. The program is designed to be completed in four years. Students are given hands-on learning opportunities through clinical rotations, simulation, and skills lab practice. Graduates of the program are prepared for entry-level positions as RNs.
Average Tuition
In-State: $10,702
Out-of-State: $25,900
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| Average In-State Tuition |
$10,702 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$25,900 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate Fiscal Year 2022 |
82.31% |
| Admission Rate |
44.99% |
| Retention Rate |
74% |
| Students Enrolled |
6,331 |
| Institution Type |
Public College |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
67% |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) |
#3 Nursing Program
University of Rhode Island
The University of Rhode Island is a public university in Kingston, Rhode Island. They offer a BSN program that prepares students to become professional nurses. Students are given hands-on learning opportunities in their simulation and skills labs to learn and apply newly acquired knowledge in a safe learning environment. Students will also complete clinical rotations in various healthcare settings. Graduates are prepared for entry-level nursing positions in medical, surgical, geriatric, maternity, pediatric, psychiatric-mental health, or community health nursing in hospitals, home health care, clinical, community health agencies, hospice, and the armed services.
Average Tuition
In-State: $15,332
Out-of-State: $33,354
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| Average In-State Tuition |
$15,332 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$33,354 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate Fiscal Year 2022 |
81.41% |
| Admission Rate |
75% |
| Retention Rate |
85% |
| Students Enrolled |
17,511 |
| Institution Type |
Public College |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
Not given |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the CCNE |
How to Choose a Nursing Program in Rhode Island
When choosing a nursing program in Rhode Island, 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.
Why Become a Nurse in Rhode Island
Despite being the smallest state, Rhode Island has an impressive healthcare system. It is home to several top hospitals that have received awards, accreditations, and other accolades for dedicating themselves to providing quality patient services and a quality work environment for nurses. Some of the top-performing hospitals in Rhode Island include Landmark Medical Center, The Miriam Hospital, Newport Hospital, Rhode Island Hospital, and Women & Infants Hospital of Rhode Island.
U.S. News ranks Rhode Island second in the nation for healthcare. It was ranked fourth for healthcare access, sixth for healthcare quality, and seventh for public health. This means that residents of Rhode Island can receive quality healthcare when needed.
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that RNs in Rhode Island earn an average annual salary of $88,250. While this is just below the national average, Rhode Island provides an excellent healthcare system for nurses to work in and a beautiful state to enjoy.
Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Rhode Island
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average mean wage for an RN in Rhode Island is $88,250, and it employs 11,190 nurses. Rhode Island also employs 1,390 advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who make an average wage of $125,250.
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 Rhode Island for RNs |
| Providence-Warwick, RI |
$88,170 |
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 Rhode Island
To become an RN and advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), candidates must complete a program approved by the Rhode Island State 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 Rhode Island, you must complete the following requirements:
RN Requirements
These are the steps to take to become an RN in Rhode Island:
- 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 RN license in Rhode Island, you must renew it every two years. Before renewal, you must complete 10 hours of continuing education, which includes two hours on substance abuse and one hour on Alzheimer’s disease training (per career). Continuing education courses must come from a board-approved provider.
APRN Requirements
These are the steps to become an APRN in Rhode Island:
- Candidates must hold an active RN license to practice in Rhode Island.
- 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.
- Rhode Island APRN licenses must be renewed every two years. Before renewal, you must complete 10 hours of continuing education, which includes two hours on substance abuse and one hour on Alzheimer’s disease training (per career). Continuing education courses must come from a board-approved provider.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Rhode Island
Is Rhode Island a good place for nurses to work?
Rhode Island is a great place to work. Despite being the smallest state, Rhode Island offers an impressive healthcare system to both patients and nurses.
Is Rhode Island a compact state for nursing?
No, Rhode Island is no longer a compact state for nursing. To work as a nurse in Rhode Island, you must apply for an RN license on the Rhode Island State Board of Nursing website.
What are the requirements for RNs in Rhode Island?
Once you have been issued your first RN license in Rhode Island, you must renew it every two years. Before renewal, you must complete 10 hours of continuing education, which includes two hours on substance abuse and one hour on Alzheimer’s disease training (per career). Continuing education courses must come from a board-approved provider.
How much does a Rhode Island RN license cost?
It costs $200 to take your NCLEX-RN exam in Rhode Island. The application fee for a Rhode Island RN license by exam and endorsement is $135. You must also submit a national criminal background check for $35. To renew your Rhode Island RN license, it costs $135.
