Nursing Programs in Kansas City, MO
Nursing continues to be a promising and thriving career pathway, and Kansas City has plenty of educational opportunities for those who want to get on board. From entry-level to advanced practice, Kansas City schools have all the program types needed to take RNs where they want to go.
To get started in nursing or to advance your nursing career, check out our accredited program listings sections below:

2026 Best Nursing Schools in Kansas City
Avila University
Kansas City, MO - Private 4-year - avila.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Avila University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program prepares students for successful nursing careers through an innovative curriculum and exceptional learning resources. With a remarkable 96.68% first-pass rate on the NCLEX-RN exam, students benefit from experienced faculty and cutting-edge simulation facilities. The program offers two pathways: a traditional BSN and an Accelerated BSN for adult learners with 60+ college credits. Students gain hands-on experience in the state-of-the-art Nursing Village, a 1500-square-foot simulation lab designed to mirror real healthcare environments.
- 96.68% NCLEX-RN pass rate
- Two nursing degree pathways
- Cutting-edge nursing simulation lab
- Experienced clinical faculty
- Campus-based traditional program
Research College of Nursing
Kansas City, MO - Private 4-year - researchcollege.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Traditional BSN program at Research College of Nursing in Kansas City, MO, prepares students for a rewarding nursing career in just two years. With a 97% NCLEX-RN pass rate, students gain hands-on experience through clinical placements in top hospitals. Tuition assistance up to 75% is available for eligible students. The program emphasizes patient-centered care, critical thinking, and leadership skills, making graduates highly sought after in the healthcare industry.
- 97% NCLEX-RN pass rate
- Two-year program
- Clinical placements provided
- Up to 75% tuition assistance
- Small class sizes
- Hands-on learning
- Patient-centered care focus
- Leadership skills development
- High employment rate
- Access to HCA Midwest Health network
Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Research College of Nursing in Kansas City, MO, offers an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, designed for those with a non-nursing bachelor's degree. This 12-month, on-campus program prepares students for NCLEX-RN licensure, with a 100% pass rate for the 2022 class. Students benefit from clinical placements in leading hospitals, small class sizes, and up to 75% tuition assistance through the HCA Midwest Health Work Loan Forgiveness program. Admission requires a previous bachelor's degree and meets specific prerequisites.
- 12-month program duration.
- On-campus learning.
- 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate.
- Up to 75% tuition assistance.
- Clinical placements provided.
- Small class sizes.
- Requires previous bachelor's degree.
- HCA Midwest Health partnership.
- Dedicated Education Unit program.
Rockhurst University
Kansas City, MO - Private 4-year - rockhurst.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Rockhurst University in Kansas City, MO, offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program designed for aspiring nurses. This campus-based program prepares students for a rewarding career in healthcare with a focus on patient care, leadership, and evidence-based practice. The curriculum blends rigorous academics with hands-on clinical experiences. While specific cost details and admissions requirements vary, prospective students can expect a comprehensive education that meets the demands of today's healthcare environment. The program is ideal for those at various life stages seeking to enter or advance in the nursing field.
- Campus-based program
- Focus on patient care
- Leadership training
- Evidence-based practice
- Hands-on clinical experiences
University of Missouri-Kansas City
Kansas City, MO - Public 4-Year - umkc.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at the University of Missouri-Kansas City prepares students for a career as a nurse generalist. This program emphasizes responsibility, accountability, and critical thinking. It offers two track options: a Pre-Licensure BSN for students without a previous bachelor’s degree or RN license, and an Accelerated BSN for those with a bachelor’s degree in another field. The program is designed to meet the health concerns of individuals, families, and communities at all development stages. Prospective students must first apply to the university and then submit a Supplemental Application for the BSN clinical program.
- Prepares nurse generalists.
- Two track options available.
- Pre-Licensure BSN for newcomers.
- Accelerated BSN for degree holders.
- Focuses on critical thinking.
- Comprehensive healthcare approach.
- Innovative health management program.
- Requires university application first.
- Supplemental Application for clinical program.
- Emphasizes responsibility and accountability.
Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at the University of Missouri-Kansas City is designed for individuals with a previous bachelor's degree, offering a fast-track to a nursing career in less than two years. With 1,050 clinical hours, the most in the Kansas City region, graduates are highly prepared for the workforce. The program emphasizes school-life balance with daytime classes and includes experiences in state-of-the-art learning spaces. Prerequisites include a bachelor's degree, specific science courses, and 30 hours of direct patient interaction. Admissions consider GPA, personal essays, and healthcare experience. Kansas residents enjoy in-state tuition, with discounts available for Midwestern state residents.
- Less than two years completion.
- 1,050 clinical hours.
- Daytime classes for balance.
- State-of-the-art learning spaces.
- Bachelor's degree required.
- 30 hours patient interaction needed.
- GPA and essays considered.
- In-state tuition for Kansas.
- Midwestern discounts available.
- Extensive clinical experience.
Bachelor's - RN-BSN
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Missouri-Kansas City offers an accredited RN-BSN program tailored for working registered nurses seeking to advance their careers. This fully online program is designed to enhance leadership skills and open new career opportunities. It stands out for its use of technology, faculty engagement, and high student satisfaction. The curriculum focuses on professional development, preparing nurses to become leaders and advocates in healthcare. Admission requires an unencumbered RN license and a cumulative GPA of 2.5. The program is affordable, with in-state tuition rates for eligible students, and does not require campus visits, making it ideal for busy professionals.
- Fully online program
- Accredited RN-BSN
- Leadership skill development
- No campus visits required
- In-state tuition for eligible
- Requires unencumbered RN license
- 2.5 GPA admission requirement
- Focuses on professional development
- High student satisfaction
- Affordable tuition rates
Entry Level ADN & BSN Programs in Kansas City, MO
For those starting from scratch to earn a nursing degree, Kansas City offers a few entry-level pathways. An Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a traditional Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN) are perfect options for new students and don't require any prior nursing degrees or licenses.
LPN to RN Programs
Licensed practical nurses have experience working with patients on a daily basis and assisting them with their basic care needs such as feeding, bathing, and dressing. LPN to RN “bridge” programs take into account an LPN’s training and experience and help them cross the bridge from LPN to associate’s degree in nursing so they can further their careers as RNs. The one year LPN to RN program at Metropolitan Community College allows students to gain hands-on experience and professional instruction in the state-of-the-art Health Science Institute.
ADN Programs
The ADN is the most basic RN degree type, requiring just 2 years of study to complete. Students take courses in human anatomy and physiology, fundamentals of nursing, and more. Metropolitan Community College, for example, offers an ADN program at both its Penn Valley and Health Science Institute campuses. The program consists of 73-77 total credit hours and offers day and evening plans.
Direct-Entry BSN Programs
The 4-year bachelor's degree in nursing is increasingly becoming the educational standard in hospitals and many other healthcare facilities. Enrolled students learn concepts in population health nursing, pharmacology, and mental health nursing. William Jewell College offers a traditional BSN as well as an accelerated BSN for those who hold a bachelor's degree in another field.
Find out more about Missouri Accelerated BSN Programs.
RN to BSN/MSN Programs in Kansas City, MO
Bridge programs include both RN to BSN and RN to MSN programs. These shortened programs allow ADN or nursing diploma grads the ability to transfer previously earned credits towards a more advanced nursing degree type.
RN to BSN Programs
The RN to BSN pathway is ideal for nurses who wish to grow their practice, but need a flexible education program. The RN to BSN is often offered online, with full-time or part-time schedules available. For instance, Graceland University, located in Independence, offers an RN to BSN program that can be completed totally online.
Find out more about Missouri RN to BSN Programs.
RN to MSN Programs
Like the RN to BSN program, the RN to MSN pathway offers licensed RNs an accelerated route to a master's degree in nursing. Research College of Nursing offers an RN to MSN degree where students do not earn a BSN (some programs culminate in both a BSN and MSN degree). Most coursework in this program is able to be completed online.
Find out more about Missouri RN to MSN Programs.
APRN & Nurse Practitioner Programs in Kansas City, MO
Advanced nursing degrees allow RNs the opportunity to refine and specialize their practice. Options in Kansas City include the traditional MSN degree as well as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. In addition to this, students have the option of specialized nurse practitioner tracks, including Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Midwife, and many more.
MSN Programs
Open to those who have earned a BSN degree already, the MSN pathway can be completed in just 2 years of additional study. The University of Missouri-Kansas City offers multiple MSN pathways, including specialty tracks for Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, Women's Health Nurse Practitioner, and many more.
Find out more about Missouri Nurse Practitioner Programs.
DNP Programs
This terminal degree type, meaning the highest degree a nurse can hold, is popular for those who want to achieve the most prestigious nursing positions. The University of Missouri-Kansas City offers numerous DNP degree pathways, including BSN to DNP and MSN to DNP. A plethora of specialization tracks, from nurse anesthetist to clinical nurse specialist, are available.
Find out more about Missouri DNP Programs.
Kansas City, MO
Rockhurst University
- BSN to MSN - Online MSN Dual Track FNP-AGACNP
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) - Online Learning - Website
- 62 total credit hours
- 1,250 clinical practice hours
- Three annual program starts
- $765 per credit hour
- Full-time and part-time tracks
- Campus and virtual immersion
- BSN degree requirement
- Active RN license needed
- BSN to MSN - Online MSN Dual Track FNP-PMHNP
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) - Online Learning - Website
- 62 total credit hours
- 1,250 clinical practice hours
- Three annual start dates
- Fully online with immersions
- $765 per credit hour
- Full-time or part-time options
- Two nursing specializations
- BSN required for admission
University of Missouri-Kansas City
- BSN to MSN - Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Acute Care - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 52 total credit hours
- Hybrid online/campus format
- Minimum 3.2 GPA required
- Two years clinical experience needed
- Prepares for ANCC certification
- Focuses on acute pediatric care
- Two to three year completion
- Estimated $45,793.80 total cost
- BSN to MSN - MSN Nurse Educator
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 100% Online Master's Program
- 41 total credit hours
- 2-3 years to complete
- Estimated cost: $36,106.65
- Minimum 3.2 GPA required
- Two years RN experience preferred
- Requires campus visit
- Fall application deadline: March 7
- BSN to MSN - MSN: Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- MSN with Family Nurse Practitioner focus
- Blended online/campus delivery
- 46 total credit hours
- 2-3 years program length
- Estimated cost $40,509.90
- Minimum 3.2 GPA required
- National certification exam prep
- Requires BSN degree
- BSN to MSN - MSN: Women's Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid delivery: online + campus
- 46 total credit hours
- Estimated $40,509.90 program cost
- Two years full-time option
- Nationally ranked nursing program
- Minimum 3.2 GPA required
- Two years clinical experience
- National certification prep
- BSN to MSN - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning model
- 46 total credit hours
- 2-3 year program length
- Top-ranked nursing program
- Comprehensive pediatric care focus
- Clinical experiences included
- Minimum 3.2 GPA requirement
- National certification prep
- MSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid delivery mode
- 74 total credit hours
- Estimated $65,168 total program cost
- Minimum 3.2 GPA required
- National certification exam preparation
- Clinical experiences in outpatient settings
- 1-2 courses per semester
- Full-time completion in 2 years
- MSN to DNP - DNP: Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Blended delivery mode
- 74 total credit hours
- 4-5 year program length
- Estimated $65,168 total cost
- Nationally recognized accreditation
- Minimum 3.2 GPA required
- Clinical rotations near student location
- MSN prerequisite required
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 11 semesters full-time BSN-DNP
- Multiple specialty track options
- Online/hybrid program format
- No GRE required for admission
- 3.2 GPA admission requirement
- Nationally recognized program
- Flexible part-time options
- Advanced clinical preparation
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program delivery
- 74 total credit hours
- 2-3 year completion time
- Estimated $65,168 total cost
- Minimum 3.2 GPA required
- CCNE accredited program
- National certification eligibility
- Clinical rotations near location
- MSN to DNP - Women's Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Blended delivery mode
- 74 total credit hours
- 4-5 year program length
- $65,168 estimated cost
- National certification preparation
- Minimum 3.2 GPA required
- Clinical experiences included
- Online with campus visits
Comprehensive List of Nursing Schools Near Kansas City, MO
Kansas City, MO
Avila University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 96.68% NCLEX-RN pass rate
- Two nursing degree pathways
- Cutting-edge nursing simulation lab
- Experienced clinical faculty
- Campus-based traditional program
Research College of Nursing
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 12-month program duration.
- On-campus learning.
- 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate.
- Up to 75% tuition assistance.
- Clinical placements provided.
- Small class sizes.
- Requires previous bachelor's degree.
- HCA Midwest Health partnership.
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 97% NCLEX-RN pass rate
- Two-year program
- Clinical placements provided
- Up to 75% tuition assistance
- Small class sizes
- Hands-on learning
- Patient-centered care focus
- Leadership skills development
Rockhurst University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Focus on patient care
- Leadership training
- Evidence-based practice
- Hands-on clinical experiences
University of Missouri-Kansas City
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Less than two years completion.
- 1,050 clinical hours.
- Daytime classes for balance.
- State-of-the-art learning spaces.
- Bachelor's degree required.
- 30 hours patient interaction needed.
- GPA and essays considered.
- In-state tuition for Kansas.
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares nurse generalists.
- Two track options available.
- Pre-Licensure BSN for newcomers.
- Accelerated BSN for degree holders.
- Focuses on critical thinking.
- Comprehensive healthcare approach.
- Innovative health management program.
- Requires university application first.
- Bachelor's - RN-BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online program
- Accredited RN-BSN
- Leadership skill development
- No campus visits required
- In-state tuition for eligible
- Requires unencumbered RN license
- 2.5 GPA admission requirement
- Focuses on professional development
