Nursing Programs in Albuquerque, NM

The University of New Mexico's Pre-Licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program offers five flexible entry options for aspiring nurses without an RN license. Choose from Freshman Direct-Entry for high school seniors, Sophomore Entry at Albuquerque or Rio Rancho campuses, a Dual Degree option with partner community colleges, or an Accelerated 2nd Degree for those with a previous bachelor's. The curriculum blends nursing theory, health sciences, and hands-on clinical experiences in diverse healthcare settings. Students learn in UNM's simulation labs and clinical placements. Graduates pursue careers as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, and community health. The College of Nursing provides a dedicated financial aid office to help with tuition and scholarships. Contact admissions for personalized guidance.

• 5 concentration options
• Prerequisite courses required
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Apply to multiple BSN options
• Designated Financial Aid Office for nursing

The Accelerated 2nd Degree BSN option at the University of New Mexico is designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree and are ready to transition into nursing. This intensive 16-month program combines rigorous coursework with hands-on clinical experiences at the state's only Level 1 trauma center, providing unparalleled exposure to acute care. Students practice skills in a state-of-the-art simulation center featuring high-fidelity manikins, then apply their learning in diverse clinical settings, including international experiences in Native nations. The curriculum covers nursing fundamentals, health assessment, pharmacology, and population health, preparing graduates for NCLEX-RN licensure and careers as registered nurses in hospitals, community health, and specialty areas. With a low 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio in clinicals, personalized support is guaranteed. UNM's Carnegie R-1 research status and partnerships with major health systems offer a robust learning environment. Students also engage in leadership opportunities through Sigma Theta Tau and other nursing organizations, all while being part of a vibrant, diverse campus community.

• No entrance exam required
• 16-Month program
• 2.8 GPA minimum
• Prerequisite courses required
• 8:1 student to clinical faculty ratio
• 99% clinical placement in UNM Health System
• State-of-the-art simulation center
• Partnership with Level 1 trauma center
• International clinical experiences in Native nations
• Sigma Theta Tau Honor Society

The University of New Mexico's Freshman Direct-Entry BSN Option offers high school seniors guaranteed admission into the College of Nursing, allowing them to begin their nursing journey immediately. Students take prerequisite courses alongside nursing-focused support, with a seamless path to graduate school. The curriculum covers foundational nursing sciences, hands-on clinical skills, and prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam. Graduates enter the workforce as registered nurses in diverse healthcare settings, from hospitals to community clinics. This option stands out for its early commitment, personalized advising, and integration into UNM's renowned College of Nursing from day one. With dedicated financial aid and scholarship support, students can focus on becoming powerfully prepared professional nurses at a leading academic health center.

• Prerequisite courses required
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Guaranteed admission for seniors
• Apply as a high school senior
• Immediate College of Nursing affiliation
• Pathway to graduate school
• Albuquerque Main Campus
• Dedicated nursing financial aid office

The Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program at UNM-Valencia Campus prepares students to become registered nurses in rural communities. The curriculum covers health promotion, restoration, and maintenance for individuals, families, and groups. Students gain clinical skills and cultural competence through hands-on training. The program requires the HESI A2 entrance exam and has a six-semester completion rate. NCLEX-RN pass rates are published annually. Accredited by ACEN through 2030, the program holds Full Approval with warning from the New Mexico Board of Nursing. Graduates are prepared for careers in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings. The fall 2026 admission window runs April 1 through May 31. The program emphasizes ethics, diversity, and quality education in a supportive campus environment.

• ACEN accredited
• Entrance exam required
• Exams: HESI
• 6-Semester program
• Apply by 2026-05-31
• Starts fall
• 53% licensure pass rate
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN
• Six semester completion rate
• Full Approval with warning status

Central New Mexico Community College’s Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AASN) program prepares you for a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN). The curriculum blends classroom instruction with hands-on lab and clinical training, covering patient assessment, medication administration, wound care, and compassionate support. You’ll develop critical thinking and communication skills essential for quality care. The program culminates in a one-on-one practicum in real healthcare environments. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam and can pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, including a dual degree option with the University of New Mexico. With ACEN accreditation, competitive tuition, and financial aid options, CNM provides a strong foundation for entering the nursing workforce. The program features limited seats and a screening process, ensuring a focused learning experience. Outcome data shows high NCLEX-RN pass rates and strong graduate employment, making this a solid choice for aspiring nurses.

• ACEN accredited
• 4-Semester program
• 84% licensure pass rate
• 85% job placement rate
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• One-on-one practicum in real healthcare settings
• Pathway to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
• Credit granted for prior PN licensure

Central New Mexico Community College offers the Nursing (AAS) program with an NMNEC concentration, a competitive associate degree pathway to becoming a registered nurse. The curriculum blends foundational sciences like microbiology and anatomy with nursing-specific coursework, preparing students for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam. A unique feature is the CNM-UNM Dual Degree option, allowing high-achieving students to simultaneously pursue a BSN. Program entry requires a pre-registration screening, a minimum prerequisite GPA of 2.75, and a HESI A2 exam score of 75% across all sections. Classes start in fall, spring, and summer terms, with 96 seats available each term. Clinical experiences provide hands-on training in healthcare settings. Graduates are equipped for entry-level nursing positions in hospitals, clinics, and community health organizations. The program emphasizes academic rigor and professional readiness, supported by dedicated advising through the Coordinated Program Entry office.

• Entrance exam required
• Exams: HESI
• Apply by 2026-09-25
• 3 start dates per year
• Starts fall/spring/summer
• 2.8 GPA minimum
• Prerequisite courses required
• Dual degree BSN option with UNM
• 96 seats available per term
• Mandatory Compliance Orientation required

Central New Mexico Community College offers a practical LPN to RN mobility option within its Associate of Applied Science in Nursing program. Designed for licensed practical nurses, this campus-based track builds on existing skills while introducing advanced concepts in patient care, pharmacology, and clinical reasoning. The curriculum includes microbiology, anatomy and physiology, and developmental psychology, with a strong clinical component. Graduates are prepared to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and pursue registered nurse licensure. A unique feature is the CNM-UNM dual degree program, allowing qualified students to earn both an associate and bachelor's degree. With multiple start terms each year, credit for prior learning, and a dedicated pre-registration screening process, this program is a streamlined path for LPNs committed to advancing their nursing careers.

• No entrance exam required
• 3 start dates per year
• Starts fall/spring/summer
• 2.8 GPA minimum
• Prerequisite courses required
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN
• LPN to RN mobility option
• Credit for prior learning for LPNs
• CNM-UNM dual degree program
• 16 seats available per term

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at Brookline College in Albuquerque blends online flexibility with immersive clinical training. Designed for aspiring registered nurses, the curriculum covers adult and pediatric health, maternal and newborn care, psychiatric nursing, and community health. The first four semesters are delivered online asynchronously, allowing you to learn at your own pace while balancing other commitments. Hands-on experiences include high-fidelity simulation labs, virtual reality scenarios, and supervised clinical rotations at local healthcare facilities. Guided by Caritas principles, you'll develop compassionate, patient-centered care skills alongside clinical excellence and leadership. Graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN and ready to pursue careers in hospitals, clinics, and community health organizations. With a three-year structure and support services like faculty coaching, wellness resources, and financial aid, this program offers a supportive path to a meaningful nursing career.

• CCNE accredited
• Entrance exam required
• Exams: HESI
• $102,429 total program tuition
• 3-Year program
• Asynchronous online classes
• 88% job placement rate
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN
• Financial aid available
• Hands-on simulation labs

The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) track at Brookline College in Albuquerque is for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor's degree ready to transition into nursing. This CCNE-accredited program blends online coursework with hands-on skills labs, simulation, and clinical rotations. You'll cover nursing fundamentals, pharmacology, adult health, maternal-newborn, pediatrics, mental health, community health, and leadership. The curriculum emphasizes compassionate care and prepares you for the NCLEX-RN. With VR simulations and dedicated labs, you build real-world confidence. Most complete in 16 months of full-time study. Graduates work as registered nurses in diverse settings. Tuition is $61,352.71; financial aid is available. Support includes faculty coaching, wellness resources, and a Learning Resource Center.

• CCNE accredited
• Entrance exam required
• Exams: HESI
• $61,352 total program tuition
• 16-Month program
• 83% licensure pass rate
• 88% job placement rate
• Prerequisite courses required
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN
• Financial aid available

Transform your nursing career with Pima Medical Institute's online RN to BSN program, designed for working professionals seeking career advancement. This flexible program takes approximately one year, enabling nurses to enhance clinical skills, leadership capabilities, and professional opportunities. Ideal for registered nurses wanting to expand their knowledge in healthcare management, evidence-based research, and community health. Prerequisites include an active RN license and 79 semester credits of postsecondary coursework.

• Online program, one year duration
• Designed for working nurses
• Leadership and management focus
• Requires active RN license
• Accredited by CCNE
• Enhances career opportunities
• Covers evidence-based research
• Community health perspectives