Best Nursing Schools in New Mexico
The breathtaking scenery and diverse Southwestern communities of New Mexico are just two reasons that many are drawn to this unique state every year. But more recently, the nursing shortage of 2020 dramatically opened up the nursing job market spurring a migration of nurses to the state to seek employment, job security, and higher wages. Most recent estimates predict a 14& increase of nursing positions over the next decade, with no sign of stopping anytime soon. If you’re hoping to capitalize on these findings and begin a new career as a nurse in this state, read over the next few sections to find out how.
2026 Best Nursing Schools in New Mexico
Yearly Pass Rate Trends
The statewide NCLEX pass rates show a positive trajectory, indicating improving nursing education quality across New Mexico. Nursing programs have demonstrated significant performance improvements from 2022 to 2024.- 2022: 83.38% average pass rate with 2,760 total students
- 2023: 90.36% average pass rate with 3,102 total students
- 2024: 91.58% average pass rate with 2,660 total students
BSN vs ADN Pass Rate Comparison
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs show slightly higher performance compared to Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs across New Mexico.- BSN Average Pass Rate: 92.26% (1,176 total students)
- ADN Average Pass Rate: 90.13% (456 total students)
Top Performing Schools
Several New Mexico nursing schools consistently demonstrate exceptional student success rates.- Southeast New Mexico College: 97.37% average pass rate
- Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell Campus: 95.65% average pass rate
- Clovis Community College: 95.55% average pass rate
Program Size Performance Analysis
Program size appears to influence NCLEX pass rates, with medium-sized programs showing the highest performance.- Small Programs (<50 students): 93.85% pass rate
- Medium Programs (50-100 students): 96.61% pass rate
- Large Programs (>100 students): 90.87% pass rate
Geographic Performance Trends
Different cities in New Mexico demonstrate varying nursing program performance levels.- Las Cruces: Highest average pass rate at 94.41%
- Farmington: 93.57% average pass rate
- Gallup: 92% average pass rate
- Albuquerque: 88.79% average pass rate
Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell
Roswell, NM - Public 2-Year - roswell.enmu.edu
Associate - Associate of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell Campus offers a comprehensive Associate of Science in Nursing program that prepares students for clinical nursing practice. With an impressive recent NCLEX pass rate consistently at 100%, graduates are well-positioned for entry-level nursing roles. The program uniquely combines classroom instruction, advanced skills laboratory training, and extensive hands-on clinical experiences. Prospective students must complete one year of prerequisite coursework and maintain a minimum 2.75 GPA. The TEAS entrance exam is required, with a minimum score of 58.7. Designed for aspiring nurses seeking a solid educational foundation, this program offers affordable in-district tuition and provides students with essential skills for successful healthcare careers.
- Accredited by ACEN.
- Regulated by NM Board of Nursing.
- One year prerequisites required.
- Two years nursing courses.
- Minimum GPA 2.75 prerequisites.
- Overall GPA 2.0 required.
- TEAS score 58.7 or higher.
- In-district tuition $1128.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Classroom and skills lab learning.
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing, BSN Completion Program
Online Learning - Visit Website
Eastern New Mexico University's online BSN Completion Program provides registered nurses an accelerated pathway to advance their professional credentials. Designed for working healthcare professionals, this 16-month program offers maximum flexibility with 8-week course modules. The program boasts an exceptional 98% graduate employment rate and is fully accredited by ACEN. While no specific entrance exam is mentioned, applicants must hold an active RN license. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, advanced clinical judgment, and professional development. With rolling admissions, no application fee, and options for part-time or full-time study, this program represents an accessible and strategic approach to nursing career advancement.
- 100% online ACEN accredited program
- RN license required for entry
- Completion possible in 16 months
- 8-week course format
- 98% graduate employment rate
- Rolling admission available
- No application fee
- Designed for working professionals
- Part-time and full-time options
Clovis Community College
Clovis, NM - Public 2-Year - clovis.edu
Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Clovis Community College's Associate of Applied Science in Nursing program delivers exceptional nursing education with consistently outstanding NCLEX performance. The 2022-2024 NCLEX pass rates demonstrate remarkable success, progressively improving from 91.89% to an impressive 100% pass rate. This campus-based program offers comprehensive clinical training across diverse healthcare environments, emphasizing evidence-based practice and patient care. Students undergo rigorous coursework covering essential nursing concepts and pharmacology. The program requires completing prerequisite courses and provides hands-on clinical rotations that prepare graduates for immediate professional nursing roles. With a strong commitment to educational excellence, the program equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the dynamic healthcare landscape.
- Campus-based program
- Hands-on clinical rotations
- Focus on evidence-based practice
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- Diverse healthcare settings
- Requires prerequisite courses
- Rigorous coursework
- Expertise in pharmacology
- Patient care focus
- New Mexico accreditation
Northern New Mexico College
Espanola, NM - Public 4-Year - nnmc.edu
Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Northern New Mexico College's Associate Degree Nursing program delivers exceptional educational preparation with impressive NCLEX pass rates reaching 100% in recent years. Accredited by ACEN, this five-semester program provides comprehensive nursing education through hands-on clinical experiences across diverse healthcare settings. Students benefit from personalized faculty support and strong community partnerships, enabling rapid progression towards professional nursing careers. The program strategically allows prerequisite course completion in just one semester, creating an accelerated pathway for aspiring nurses. With consistent 100% pass rates in 2023 and 2024, graduates demonstrate remarkable readiness for nursing licensure and professional practice. The campus-based curriculum emphasizes practical skills, preparing students for potential Bachelor of Science in Nursing continuation.
- Accredited by ACEN.
- 5-semester completion.
- Hands-on clinical experiences.
- Exceptional faculty support.
- Strong community partnerships.
- High job security.
- Prerequisites in one semester.
- Campus-based program.
- Prepares for BSN continuation.
- Affordable education.
New Mexico Junior College
Hobbs, NM - Public 2-Year - nmjc.edu
Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
New Mexico Junior College's Associate of Applied Science in Nursing provides an exceptional two-year pathway for aspiring registered nurses. With consistently impressive NCLEX-RN pass rates ranging from 90.32% to 100% between 2022-2024, the program demonstrates outstanding student preparation. Located in Hobbs, the curriculum integrates comprehensive classroom instruction, advanced laboratory training, and extensive clinical practice across diverse healthcare environments. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and a patient-centered approach that equips graduates with robust skills for immediate professional entry. The program accepts up to 50 students per cohort, offering affordable tuition and financial aid options. Full accreditation by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) ensures high-quality educational standards and potential pathways for future academic advancement.
- Two-year program duration
- State-of-the-art facilities
- High NCLEX-RN pass rate
- Patient-centered care focus
- Diverse clinical practice opportunities
- Affordable tuition options
- Financial aid available
- Applications due May 20th
- Fall semester start
- Comprehensive curriculum
San Juan College
Farmington, NM - Public 2-Year - sanjuancollege.edu
Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
San Juan College's Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) provides an exceptional two-year pathway to becoming a registered nurse with impressive credentials. Located in Farmington, the program boasts a remarkable 100% first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate, demonstrating its commitment to student success. Students benefit from immersive simulation labs and extensive clinical training across diverse healthcare settings. The program requires specific academic prerequisites and offers affordable tuition with potential scholarship opportunities. Military-friendly and ACEN accredited, this program prepares students comprehensively for professional nursing practice. Clinical experiences and hands-on training ensure graduates are well-equipped to enter the healthcare workforce with confidence and competence.
- Two-year program duration.
- 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Affordable tuition rates.
- Scholarship opportunities available.
- Campus-based learning.
- Prepares for registered nurse licensure.
- Simulation lab training.
- Meets New Mexico Board of Nursing standards.
- ACEN accredited program.
Bachelor's - Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing (BSN)
Campus Based - Visit Website
San Juan College's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) offers a comprehensive four-year program in partnership with the University of New Mexico, designed to produce highly skilled nursing professionals. With an impressive track record of NCLEX-RN exam success, the program provides extensive hands-on training through simulation labs and diverse clinical experiences. Students explore multiple healthcare environments, gaining practical skills and theoretical knowledge. The program emphasizes comprehensive patient care and professional development. Military-friendly and ACEN accredited, this BSN pathway offers potential tuition-free options and scholarship opportunities. Graduates are well-prepared to excel in various nursing roles and contribute meaningfully to healthcare delivery.
- Two nursing degree paths
- 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate
- Simulation and clinical experience
- Partnership with UNM
- ACEN accredited program
- Multiple healthcare settings
- Potential tuition-free options
New Mexico Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
To begin your nursing career in New Mexico, earning a degree is essential for licensure eligibility. Common entry-level nursing degree options include an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Each of these pathways offers distinct advantages and requirements. Explore the details below to better understand the differences and determine which path might suit you best.
Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs
Starting a nursing career can feel overwhelming, especially when deciding on the right degree. New nurses in New Mexico generally follow one of three primary educational paths: an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). All three qualify you for entry-level positions, but each option has distinct benefits. An ADN or diploma program is the quickest path, typically allowing you to complete your education and obtain a license within 1 to 2 years. A BSN takes about four years of full-time study, but it broadens your career opportunities. If you're currently an LPN, there are accelerated LPN to RN bridge programs available to help you earn an ADN or BSN faster.
Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in New Mexico include:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA, typically 2.5 or higher
- Some programs require scores from the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI Admission Assessment
For further admissions requirements and more information, check out our page on ADN degree programs.
More information on RN diplomas, LPN to RN, and ADN programs:
| Program | Estimated Tuition | Estimated Credits | Online Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADN | $6,000 – $15,000 | 60-72 credits | Limited online courses, primarily on-campus |
| LPN to RN | $4,000 – $10,000 | 30-45 credits | Often hybrid; some online courses |
| RN Diploma | $5,000 – $12,000 | 40-60 credits | Rarely online; primarily on-campus |
ADN, LPN to RN, and nursing diploma programs require hands-on clinical training hours under supervision in order to be eligible for RN licensure. These will need to be completed in person, even if you opt for an online or hybrid program. Not sure if you’re ready for an RN career? Consider an LPN or CNA program in New Mexico.
Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs
Although ADN programs and nursing diplomas offer faster entry into the workforce, earning a BSN can be a worthwhile investment for many students. Employers often prefer hiring nurses with a BSN over those with an ADN or diploma, and a BSN provides a strong base for those interested in advancing to graduate-level nursing degrees. If you're already an RN with an ADN, you could complete a BSN in as little as two years. Alternatively, if you hold a bachelor's degree in another field, an accelerated BSN program may allow you to finish in just one year, depending on your existing credits.
Admissions requirements for BSN programs in New Mexico typically include:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0
- Completion of prerequisite courses
For more information on BSN admissions requirements and more, see our BSN degrees page.
Several alternative pathways are also available to qualified students who want to pursue a BSN. Compare your options below:
| Program | Length | Estimated Tuition | Entrance Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional BSN | 4 years (120-126 credits) | $20,000 – $50,000 | First-time college students |
| RN to BSN | 1-2 years (30-35 credits) | $10,000 – $20,000 | Licensed RNs with an ADN |
| ABSN | 12-18 months (50-60 credits) | $25,000 – $40,000 | Non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders |
RN to BSN
For RN bridge programs visit:
Nurses in New Mexico looking to further their education and obtain a BSN degree can take advantage of the RN to BSN programs available within the state. These programs are tailored for licensed RNs, often those with an ADN and at least a year of nursing experience. Many nurses can complete their RN to BSN studies in as little as two years, allowing for a flexible and efficient route to career advancement.
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
If you already hold a bachelor's degree, even in a non-nursing field, you can transition to nursing and earn your BSN in one to two years through a New Mexico ABSN program. This pathway is ideal for those considering a career change later in life and looking for a fast track into nursing.
Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
If your goal in New Mexico is to practice independently as a nurse practitioner or advanced practice nurse, you'll need to complete a graduate program, such as a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program, a bridge program to enter advanced practice, or even a doctorate degree such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). These advanced degrees typically require an additional 2 to 6 years of study beyond the bachelor's level.
Earning a graduate-level degree in nursing opens the door to numerous Advanced Practice Registered Nursing (APRN) roles, leadership roles, and even careers in academia or research. Read more about APRN pathways in New Mexico:
- New Mexico Nurse Practitioner Programs
- New Mexico MSN Program
- New Mexico RN to MSN Programs
- New Mexico Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
- New Mexico DNP Programs
Getting an RN License in New Mexico
To practice as a nurse in New Mexico, you'll need to obtain RN licensure. This process involves passing the NCLEX-RN exam after completing an accredited nursing program. Once you've successfully passed the exam, the final step is to submit an application to the New Mexico Board of Nursing and pay the required fee.
Requirements for RN Licensure in New Mexico
- Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
- Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
- Application to the New Mexico Board of Nursing
- Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance
Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?
Whichever program you choose, it's essential to verify that the RN program accreditation. Accreditation ensures that the program meets the standards set by the state nursing board. When applying to nursing programs in New Mexico, confirm that they are accredited by either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Cities With Nursing Programs in New Mexico
List of Nursing Schools in New Mexico
Alamogordo, NM
New Mexico State University-Alamogordo
- Associate - Associates of Applied Science in Nursing (AASN)
Campus Based - Website
- Approved by NMBON
- Five semesters length
- Campus-based program
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Accredited by HLC
- Experienced faculty
- Hands-on healthcare immersion
- AASN degree offered
Albuquerque, NM
Brookline College-Albuquerque
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 16-month program duration
- Hybrid online and campus learning
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- Tuition forgiveness program available
- Personalized tutoring services
- Career services support
- HESI admission assessment required
- Prerequisite courses needed
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CCNE-accredited program
- Hybrid learning format
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- Year-round enrollment
- No wait lists
- Personalized academic support
- Hands-on clinical experiences
- Comprehensive curriculum
Central New Mexico Community College
- Associate - Nursing (AAS), LPN to RN Mobility Option
Concentration: LPN to RN Mobility - Campus Based - Website
- LPN to RN pathway
- Requires NM LPN license
- 2.75 GPA prerequisite
- 2.0 cumulative GPA
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Credit for prior learning
- Clinical skills focus
- Theoretical knowledge emphasis
- Associate - Nursing (AAS), NMNEC Concentration
Concentration: NMNEC - Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- NMNEC Concentration
- Requires HESI A2 exam
- 2.75 GPA prerequisite
- 2.0 cumulative GPA
- Seats available every term
- Clinical preparation focus
- Hands-on experience
- Associate - Nursing (AAS)
Campus Based - Website
- Hands-on patient care training.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- ACEN accredited program.
- Financial aid available.
- Combines classroom and clinical learning.
- Meets NM Board of Nursing requirements.
- Pathway to further nursing education.
- Focus on critical thinking skills.
University of New Mexico
- Bachelor's - Accelerated 2nd Degree BSN Option
Campus Based - Website
- 16-month program duration.
- 8:1 student to faculty ratio.
- Diverse clinical experiences.
- State-of-the-art simulation labs.
- No HESI exam required.
- Cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher.
- Prerequisite courses required.
- Bachelor's degree required.
- Bachelor's - Freshman Direct-Entry BSN Option
Campus Based - Website
- Direct entry for high school seniors.
- Combines academic and clinical training.
- Focus on patient care and leadership.
- Financial aid available.
- Prepares for modern healthcare challenges.
- Bachelor's - Pre-Licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Five BSN entry options
- In-person clinical training
- Multiple campus locations
- Simulation skills training
- Comprehensive prerequisite requirements
- Pathway to graduate studies
- Second degree accelerated option
Clovis, NM
Clovis Community College
- Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Hands-on clinical rotations
- Focus on evidence-based practice
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- Diverse healthcare settings
- Requires prerequisite courses
- Rigorous coursework
- Expertise in pharmacology
Crownpoint, NM
Navajo Technical University
- Associate - Registered Nurse
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based learning.
- Hands-on nursing training.
- Prepares for healthcare challenges.
- For aspiring healthcare professionals.
- Located in Crownpoint, NM.
Espanola, NM
Northern New Mexico College
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accredited by ACEN.
- 5-semester completion.
- Hands-on clinical experiences.
- Exceptional faculty support.
- Strong community partnerships.
- High job security.
- Prerequisites in one semester.
- Campus-based program.
Farmington, NM
San Juan College
- Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Two-year program duration.
- 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Affordable tuition rates.
- Scholarship opportunities available.
- Campus-based learning.
- Prepares for registered nurse licensure.
- Simulation lab training.
Hobbs, NM
New Mexico Junior College
- Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Two-year program duration
- State-of-the-art facilities
- High NCLEX-RN pass rate
- Patient-centered care focus
- Diverse clinical practice opportunities
- Affordable tuition options
- Financial aid available
- Applications due May 20th
Las Cruces, NM
New Mexico State University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Four-year, 124-125 credit BSN
- Multiple campus locations
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- Competitive admission process
- Minimum 2.75 nursing GPA required
- HESI Admission Assessment required
- Science courses within 7 years
- Clinical vaccination requirements
New Mexico State University-Dona Ana
- Associate - Associate in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 72 credits required.
- Campus-based program.
- C+ or better in technical courses.
- 2.0 GPA minimum.
- Includes NCLEX-RN preparation.
- Covers adult health nursing.
- Includes mental health nursing.
- Maternal child nursing covered.
Las Vegas, NM
Luna Community College
- Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 71 credit hours required.
- Concept-based learning model.
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation.
- Minimum 77% course grade.
- TEAS exam for admission.
- 2.75 GPA prerequisite.
- Health care experience needed.
- ACEN accredited program.
Los Lunas, NM
University of New Mexico-Valencia County Campus
- Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Accredited by ACEN
- Focuses on rural healthcare
- High NCLEX-RN pass rates
- Culturally competent training
- Ethics and integrity emphasis
- Hands-on experience
- Prepares for RN licensure
Portales, NM
Eastern New Mexico University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online ACEN accredited program
- 8-week course format
- RN licensure required for entry
- Full-time students complete in 16 months
- 98% employment rate for graduates
- No application fee
- Rolling admission
- Designed for working professionals
Ranchos de Taos, NM
University of New Mexico-Taos Campus
- Associate - Associate of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Two-year program.
- Campus-based learning.
- Annual fall admission.
- Requires ATI TEAS score.
- 2.75 GPA prerequisite.
- 40 credits nursing courses.
- 78 total credits.
- Hands-on training included.
Roswell, NM
Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell
- Associate - Associate of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accredited by ACEN.
- Regulated by NM Board of Nursing.
- One year prerequisites required.
- Two years nursing courses.
- Minimum GPA 2.75 prerequisites.
- Overall GPA 2.0 required.
- TEAS score 58.7 or higher.
- In-district tuition $1128.
Santa Fe, NM
Santa Fe Community College
- Associate - Associate in Applied Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Pathway to BSN
- High NCLEX pass rates
- Affordable tuition
- Financial aid available
- Fall and spring admissions
- Comprehensive nursing curriculum
- Supportive learning environment
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