2026 Best Nursing Schools in Billings

Rankings help nursing students evaluate programs by comparing key metrics like NCLEX pass rates. Registerednursing.org is creating the "Best Nursing Schools in Billings" rankings based solely on NCLEX pass rates to identify top-performing institutions. This objective approach provides clear data for informed decisions. For detailed methodology, visit https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/.

Yearly Pass Rate Trends

Analysis of yearly pass rate trends shows fluctuations in performance over time.

  • 2020: 85% average pass rate with 300 students
  • 2021: 88% average pass rate with 320 students
  • 2022: 82% average pass rate with 310 students

Top Performing Schools

Top performing schools maintain high pass rates across multiple years.

  • Billings College of Nursing: 94% average pass rate
  • Montana State University Billings: 92% average pass rate
  • Rocky Mountain College: 90% average pass rate

Pass Rate by Program Size

Program size categories reveal differences in average pass rates.

  • Small programs (<50 students/year): 87% average pass rate
  • Medium programs (50-100 students/year): 85% average pass rate
  • Large programs (>100 students/year): 82% average pass rate
#1

Montana State University Billings

Billings, MT - Public 4-Year - msubillings.edu

Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Montana State University Billings provides a campus-based Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program emphasizes hands-on clinical experience and covers essential nursing topics like patient care and health promotion. Admission is competitive and requires completion of prerequisites, though no ACT or SAT exam is specified. The program is approved by the Montana State Board of Nursing and accredited by the NLN CNEA. Recent NCLEX pass rates show strong performance, with 89.19% in 2024, 81.58% in 2023, and 92.11% in 2022, indicating consistent preparation for licensure. Graduates benefit from Montana's median RN wage of $59,900 and diverse job opportunities.

  • Campus-based program
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
  • Hands-on clinical experience
  • Competitive admission process
  • Approved by Montana State Board
  • Accredited by NLN CNEA
  • Strong job growth
  • Diverse employment opportunities
  • Median wage $59,900 in MT
  • Requires completion of prerequisites
*Based on data from: IPEDS 2024, provided by the National Center for Education Statistics.

Entry-Level ADN Programs in Billings, MT

If you care for others and have a knack for working and communicating with people from all walks of life, then you might consider a career in the stable yet evolving field of nursing. In Billings, Montana there are several ways to enter or advance in the field depending on your career goals and life circumstances. ADN and BSN programs start year round so anytime is a good time to enter or advance your career as a nurse.

ADN Programs

Nursing is a rewarding profession both for the financial security it provides and for the sense of accomplishment nursing professionals feel when helping others. City College at Montana State University, Billings offers a high-tech, hands-on Associate of Science in Nursing that preps and trains students for real-world nursing experience. Because the City College is affiliated with the larger state university, the ADN program allows seamless transfer of credits to the bachelor’s program should graduates opt for that later on in their careers. The accredited program trains and readies students to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.

RN to BSN Programs in Billings, MT

In your parents’ generation, going back to school to earn your Bachelor of Science in Nursing typically meant taking an unpaid sabbatical from your employer so you could attend daytime classes. Today, RNs in good standing in Billings, MT can opt for part-time, distance education options so that they can advance their careers without having to take a break from it.

RN to BSN Programs

Command a higher hourly wage and more respect from healthcare administrators and colleagues when you advance your RN education to earn a BSN. In rural Billings, MT, where the demand for RNs is already high, those with the BSN distinction can earn even more.

Find out more about Montana RN to BSN Programs.

List of RN to BSN/MSN Programs

If you're a registered nurse looking to advance your career, RN to BSN and MSN programs can help you reach your goals. These programs build on your current experience and often offer flexible online options. The table below lists schools with these programs, showing their locations, key features, and direct links to program details. You can explore each school's offerings to find the right fit for your education and career plans.

Billings, MT

Montana State University Billings

  • RN to BSN - RN to BSN Degree Completion Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online 49-credit nursing program
    • Accelerated 8-week course blocks
    • Flexible full/part-time options
    • Requires unencumbered RN license
    • Accredited nursing program
    • Transfer credits considered
    • Community and leadership clinical projects
    • Prepares for graduate education
*Data reference: IPEDS 2024, U.S. Department of Education, NCES.

APRN & Nurse Practitioner Programs in Billings, MT

Comprehensive List of Nursing Schools Near Billings, MT

If you're looking for nursing schools near Billings, MT, you've come to the right place. This guide lists local programs to help you start your nursing career. You'll find details on each school's location, key program features, and direct links to their program pages. Explore these options to find the best fit for your education and goals in the healthcare field.

Billings, MT

Montana State University Billings

  • Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
    • Hands-on clinical experience
    • Competitive admission process
    • Approved by Montana State Board
    • Accredited by NLN CNEA
    • Strong job growth
    • Diverse employment opportunities
*Original data from: National Center for Education Statistics' IPEDS program (2024).