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
Best Nursing Schools in Kansas City
Choosing the right nursing program is crucial for career success, and rankings provide valuable guidance by highlighting programs with proven outcomes. Registerednursing.org creates these rankings to help students make informed decisions, focusing exclusively on NCLEX pass rates as the sole ranking criterion. This objective measure reflects program effectiveness in preparing graduates for licensure. For detailed methodology, visit https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/.
Yearly Pass Rate Trends
Analysis of pass rate trends in Kansas City shows consistent high performance over recent years.
- 2024: 100% average pass rate with 20 students
- 2023: 100% average pass rate with 53 students
Yearly Nursing Graduates
The number of nursing graduates in Kansas City has varied between years, impacting total student counts.
- 2024: 20 graduates
- 2023: 53 graduates
Top Performing Schools
William Jewell College stands out as a top performer in Kansas City nursing education based on NCLEX pass rates.
- William Jewell College: 100% average pass rate across 73 students over 2 years
Pass Rate by Program Size
Small nursing programs in Kansas City demonstrate strong outcomes in licensure exam performance.
- Small programs (<50 students/year): 100% average pass rate across 20 students
Consistently High Performing Schools
Schools maintaining excellence over multiple years provide reliable options for prospective nursing students.
- William Jewell College: 100% average pass rate across 73 students over 2 years
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 University of Missouri-Kansas City's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program prepares nurse generalists through two distinct pathways. The Pre-Licensure BSN serves students without prior degrees, while the Accelerated BSN accommodates those with existing bachelor's degrees. Both tracks emphasize critical thinking, accountability, and comprehensive healthcare across all developmental stages. Admission requires university application followed by a supplemental clinical application. For bachelor's level programs, entrance exams like ACT or SAT may be required. NCLEX pass rates show strong performance, with 97.14% in 2023 and 100% in 2024 among BSN graduates, indicating excellent preparation for licensure.
- 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
UMKC's Accelerated BSN offers a fast-track nursing pathway for degree holders, completing in under two years with 1,050 clinical hours—the most in Kansas City. The program features daytime classes for work-life balance and utilizes state-of-the-art learning facilities. Prerequisites include a bachelor's degree, specific science courses, and 30 hours of direct patient experience. Admissions evaluate GPA, personal essays, and healthcare background. For bachelor's level programs, entrance exams like ACT or SAT may be required. Kansas residents receive in-state tuition, with discounts for Midwestern students. The program's extensive clinical training contributes to strong NCLEX outcomes, with 100% pass rate in 2024.
- 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
UMKC's fully online RN-BSN program helps working registered nurses advance their careers through flexible, technology-enhanced education. This accredited program develops leadership skills and professional advocacy without requiring campus visits. Admission requires an unencumbered RN license and 2.5 cumulative GPA. For master's or doctorate level programs, entrance exams like GRE may be required, though this program doesn't specify exam requirements. Affordable in-state tuition is available for eligible students. The curriculum's focus on professional development prepares nurses for expanded roles in healthcare. While NCLEX data isn't directly applicable to RN-BSN programs, the school's strong BSN pass rates suggest quality nursing education foundations.
- 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
Research College of Nursing
Kansas City, MO - Private 4-year - researchcollege.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Research College of Nursing's Traditional BSN program in Kansas City, MO, delivers comprehensive nursing education in just two years. With a strong 97% NCLEX-RN pass rate, students gain extensive clinical experience through placements at top hospitals. The program emphasizes patient-centered care, critical thinking, and leadership development, preparing graduates for high-demand healthcare roles. Eligible students can access up to 75% tuition assistance. This bachelor's-level program requires ACT or SAT entrance exams for admission.
- 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
The Accelerated BSN program at Research College of Nursing offers an intensive 12-month pathway for students holding non-nursing bachelor's degrees. Achieving a perfect 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate for the 2022 cohort, this program provides clinical rotations through the HCA Midwest Health network. Students benefit from small class sizes and potential tuition assistance up to 75%. As a master's-level accelerated program, it requires entrance exams for admission. Graduates are well-prepared for immediate nursing licensure and practice.
- 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.
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 provides two distinct pathways: a traditional BSN and an Accelerated BSN for adult learners with 60+ college credits. The program requires ACT or SAT entrance exams for admission. Students benefit from experienced faculty and gain hands-on clinical experience in the state-of-the-art Nursing Village, a 1500-square-foot simulation lab designed to replicate real healthcare environments. Recent NCLEX-RN pass rates show strong performance, with 94.44% in 2023 and 89.47% in 2024. The program's innovative curriculum and exceptional learning resources prepare graduates for successful nursing careers.
- 96.68% NCLEX-RN pass rate
- Two nursing degree pathways
- Cutting-edge nursing simulation lab
- Experienced clinical faculty
- Campus-based traditional program
Rockhurst University
Kansas City, MO - Private 4-year - rockhurst.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Rockhurst University's campus-based Bachelor of Science in Nursing program in Kansas City, MO, provides a rigorous education blending academic coursework with extensive clinical experiences. This Roman Catholic-affiliated institution emphasizes patient care, leadership development, and evidence-based practice to prepare graduates for diverse healthcare roles. The program requires ACT or SAT scores for admission. NCLEX pass rates for BSN graduates were 89.57% in 2023 and 91.46% in 2024, demonstrating strong preparation for nursing licensure. With military-friendly policies and a focus on hands-on learning, this program serves students at various stages seeking to enter the nursing profession.
- Campus-based program
- Focus on patient care
- Leadership training
- Evidence-based practice
- Hands-on clinical experiences
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.
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.
List of APRN (MSN, DNP, & NP) Programs in Kansas City
Kansas City, MO
Rockhurst University
- Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP)
- BSN to MSN - Online MSN Dual Track FNP-AGACNP
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) - Online Learning - Website
- Online MSN Dual Track program.
- Combines FNP and AGACNP certifications.
- 62 credit hours required.
- 1,250 clinical hours included.
- $780 per credit hour cost.
- Total tuition $48,360 plus fees.
- Full-time completion in 8 semesters.
- Part-time completion in 10 semesters.
University of Missouri-Kansas City
- BSN to MSN - Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Acute Care - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid delivery mode
- 52 credit hours required
- Estimated cost $47,983
- 2-3 year program length
- BSN with 3.2 GPA required
- Two years pediatric experience
- Current RN licensure needed
- ANCC and PNCB certification eligible
- 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 mode.
- 46 credit hours required.
- Estimated cost $42,446.50.
- 2-3 years typical length.
- BSN required for admission.
- Minimum 3.2 GPA needed.
- Current RN licensure required.
- Clinical experience mandatory.
- 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
