Nursing Programs in Birmingham, AL

UAB’s traditional four-year BSN pathway blends academic coursework with immersive clinical experiences, including simulation labs and hands-on practice at its on-campus Academic Medical Center, a Level 1 trauma facility. The curriculum spans adult health, behavioral health, obstetrics, pediatrics, and complex care, culminating in a preceptorship. The program is ranked #1 in Alabama by U.S. News & World Report and offers distinctive options like the Dean’s Scholars Program, Nursing Honors Program, Veterans CAN initiative, and paid student nurse roles at partner hospitals. Small cohorts and dedicated advisors foster focused learning. UAB BSN graduates achieved an impressive 97.99% NCLEX pass rate in 2023, reflecting strong preparation for registered nurse practice.

• $471 per credit
• Apply by 2026-09-04
• 3 start dates per year
• Starts spring/summer/fall
• 2.8 GPA minimum
• Prerequisite courses required
• $40 application fee
• Military benefits accepted
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available

The Traditional Pathway BSN at UAB is a comprehensive four-year undergraduate program emphasizing clinical competence through rigorous coursework and hands-on experiences. Students develop skills in person-centered care, evidence-based practice, and interprofessional collaboration, preparing them to pass the NCLEX-RN and excel in diverse healthcare settings. Admission requires a 2.75 GPA and completion of prerequisites, with a competitive selection process. The curriculum integrates theoretical foundations with practical application, ensuring graduates are workforce-ready. UAB’s commitment to nursing excellence is demonstrated by its 2023 NCLEX first-time pass rate of 97.99% for BSN students, among the highest in Alabama, providing confidence in the program’s quality and graduate outcomes.

• Four-year traditional BSN pathway
• NCLEX-RN exam preparation
• Clinical competence focus
• 2.75 GPA requirement
• Comprehensive prerequisite courses
• Person-centered care approach
• Evidence-based practice training
• Interprofessional collaboration emphasis

UAB’s RN to BSN Pathway is a hybrid, distance-accessible program designed for working registered nurses seeking to earn their bachelor’s degree. The flexible 3-5 semester format includes 30 upper-division credits, delivered online with some on-campus elements, allowing students to balance career and education. The curriculum enhances leadership, evidence-based practice, and advanced nursing concepts, building on previous nursing coursework through block credit. Admission requires an active RN license and a minimum 2.5 GPA; resident tuition is $557 per credit. This pathway accelerates professional growth while preparing nurses for expanded roles, leadership opportunities, and graduate study. UAB’s nursing programs are supported by a strong institutional reputation, including a 97.99% NCLEX pass rate for its pre-licensure BSN track.

• Distance-accessible hybrid format
• Flexible 3-5 semester plans
• 30 total upper division credits
• Resident tuition $557 per credit
• Requires active RN license
• Minimum 2.5 GPA required
• Block credit for previous nursing coursework
• Online technology-based delivery
• Focus on leadership and evidence-based practice

Lawson State Community College's Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program in Birmingham prepares students for the NCLEX-RN and a career as a registered nurse. The ACEN-accredited, 72-credit curriculum includes anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and nursing fundamentals, emphasizing critical thinking and hands-on clinical training. Admission requires the ACT and completion of prerequisite courses, with a competitive point-based selection process and a 2.0 minimum GPA. Day and evening classes accommodate diverse schedules, with two start dates in summer and fall. The program reports a 2023 NCLEX pass rate of 95.24% and 100% job placement, earning a top-10 ranking in Alabama. Financial aid supports eligible students, and graduates pursue roles as traveling nurses or continue to nurse practitioner paths.

• ACEN accredited
• Entrance exam required
• Exams: ACT
• 2-Year program
• 72 total credit hours
• 2 start dates per year
• Starts summer/fall
• 90% licensure pass rate
• 100% job placement rate
• 2.0 GPA minimum