2027 Best Nursing Schools in Lincoln

Choosing the right nursing school is critical. Rankings help prospective students compare programs based on objective data. Registerednursing.org has created the Best Nursing Schools in Lincoln rankings, using NCLEX pass rates as the sole ranking criterion. A strong pass rate reflects quality education. For our methodology, visit https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/.
#1

Southeast Community College Area

Lincoln, NE - Public 2-Year - southeast.edu

Associate - Associate Degree Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Southeast Community College's Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program offers a comprehensive pathway to becoming a registered nurse. Students develop essential skills in patient assessment, critical care, and evidence-based practice through a blend of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experiences. The curriculum covers anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and professional communication, preparing graduates to provide safe, effective care in diverse healthcare settings. With a strong NCLEX-RN pass rate of 87.5%, the program emphasizes clinical competence and critical thinking. Clinical placements are arranged by a coordinator at local hospitals and clinics, with sessions starting in the second term and requiring 518 hours total. Full-time and part-time options are available, with start terms in fall and spring. Graduates are eligible for multi-state RN licensure through the NCSBN compact. Career outcomes include roles in hospitals, long-term care, clinics, and home healthcare, with an average annual salary of $85,800. The program also offers an LPN-to-ADN bridge for licensed practical nurses seeking advancement.

  • $8,573 total program tuition
  • Complete in 4 Terms (full-time), 8 Terms (part-time)
  • Full-time and part-time options
  • Starts fall/spring
  • 87.5% licensure pass rate
  • $85,800 median earnings
  • 518 clinical hours
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Locations in Beatrice and Lincoln
#2

Bryan College of Health Sciences

Lincoln, NE - Private 4-year - bryanhealthcollege.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The BSN program at Bryan College of Health Sciences blends science, communication, psychology, and humanities with over 1,000 clinical hours for hands-on experience. Small classes and a 1:7 faculty-to-student ratio ensure personalized attention. Graduates achieve a 100% NCLEX pass rate and enter diverse careers in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care. Offered at Lincoln and Hastings campuses, with an accelerated 12-month track, the program also features free tuition for two years through the Bryan Nursing Access Program. This degree provides job security, strong starting pay, and room for growth in a high-demand healthcare field.

  • Starts spring/fall
  • 100% licensure pass rate
  • 1000 clinical hours
  • Prepares for NCLEX
  • Small class sizes
  • 1:7 faculty-to-student ratio in clinicals
  • Skills Labs and Simulation Center
  • Two campus locations
  • Accelerated 12-month program option
  • New grads start at $34-$41 per hour

Bachelor's - Accelerated Nursing Degree

Campus Based - Visit Website

Bryan College of Health Sciences offers an intensive 12-month Accelerated BSN program at its Lincoln campus, designed for students who want to launch their nursing career quickly. This full-time program combines rigorous coursework with over 1,000 clinical hours, preparing graduates for real-world practice in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care settings. Small class sizes and a 1:7 faculty-to-student ratio ensure personalized support. The curriculum covers medical terminology, anatomy, psychology, and more, building a strong foundation for NCLEX preparation. Nursing graduates enjoy high demand, strong starting pay of $34–$41 per hour, and pathways to advanced roles. Prerequisites must be completed before starting. With its accelerated timeline and extensive clinical training, this program stands out for career-focused students seeking a fast track to nursing.

  • 12-Month program
  • Full-time enrollment
  • Starts fall
  • 1000 clinical hours
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Small class sizes
  • 1:7 faculty-to-student ratio
  • Starting pay $34-41 per hour
  • Career variety: ER to long-term care
  • Nurses in high demand
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#3

Nebraska Wesleyan University

Lincoln, NE - Private 4-year - nebrwesleyan.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Nebraska Wesleyan University's traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program prepares students for professional nursing practice and NCLEX-RN licensure. The curriculum blends foundational sciences with nursing theory and clinical experiences across medical-surgical, mental health, women's and children's health, and community settings. Students develop clinical reasoning through courses in pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment, and evidence-based practice. A leadership and issues course, global health perspective, and capstone internship round out the program, which also integrates the university's Archway Curriculum for a liberal arts foundation. With a focus on compassionate, patient-centered care, graduates are equipped for roles in hospitals, clinics, and community health organizations. The program requires a C+ or better in all nursing courses and includes a dedicated NCLEX-RN preparation course.

  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Capstone required
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • C+ or better in nursing courses
  • Traditional BSN plan of study available
  • Global health course required
  • Leadership and issues course included
  • Evidence-based practice coursework
  • Pathophysiology course for BSN students
  • Medical-surgical nursing sequence
#4

Concordia University-Nebraska

Seward, NE - Private 4-year - cune.edu

Bachelor's - BSN Dual Degree 3+1 Nursing Program

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The BSN Dual Degree 3+1 Nursing Program is a unique partnership between Concordia University, Nebraska and Creighton University. Over four years, you'll earn both a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Creighton and a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from Concordia. The first three years are spent at Concordia, where you'll take general education, foundational sciences, and nursing prerequisites while living on campus and participating in campus life. With a 14:1 student-to-faculty ratio and classes designed from a Christian perspective, you'll receive personalized mentorship from both universities. Your fourth year transitions to Creighton's accelerated BSN program, where you'll complete nursing courses and clinical rotations at local healthcare facilities. Graduates are prepared for roles such as registered nurse, nurse administrator, or nurse anesthetist. The program boasts a 100% career outcome rate and offers generous financial aid, including the Nebraska Nursing Scholarship for residents. This accelerated pathway saves time and money while providing a rigorous, Christ-centered education.

  • 4-Year program
  • Complete in in just four years
  • 149 total credit hours
  • 100% job placement rate
  • 3.0 GPA minimum
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Financial aid available
  • Scholarships available
  • Dual degree from Concordia and Creighton
  • Christ-centered education
#5

Doane University

Crete, NE - Private 4-year - doane.edu

Bachelor's - Nursing, R.N. to B.S.N.

Online Learning - Visit Website

Doane University's RN to BSN program is a degree-completion pathway designed for licensed registered nurses seeking to advance their careers. Offered both online and on the Lincoln campus, this bachelor's program builds on your associate's degree or diploma, accepting up to 72 transfer credits. The curriculum emphasizes professional development, leadership, healthcare policy, and evidence-based practice, preparing you for roles in community health, nursing leadership, and beyond. You'll explore cultural aspects of health, research methods, and legal-ethical issues, all within a liberal arts framework that fosters critical thinking and interprofessional collaboration. The program requires a current unrestricted RN license and includes clinical components tailored to your employment setting. With a focus on personal leadership and real-world problem-solving, Doane's RN to BSN equips you to excel in today's dynamic healthcare environment.

  • Degree-completion program for RNs
  • Offered on Lincoln campus and online
  • Focus on professional development and leadership
  • Requires current active RN license
  • Up to 72 transfer credits accepted
  • Liberal arts education for nurses
  • Background investigation required
  • Personal medical insurance required
*Data from: Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), 2025.

Entry-Level ADN & BSN Programs in Lincoln, NE

To start out as an RN, students in Lincoln have the option of entry-level programs including an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). These programs are designed for those who don't already hold a nursing license.

LPN to RN Programs

Licensed practical nurses are already experienced in providing patients with basic care and assisting them with activities of daily living such as bathing and dressing. For LPNs who want to expand on these skills and become licensed as RNs, some schools offer LPN to RN bridge programs that provide an accelerated pathway to becoming a registered nurse. Southeast Community College offers an LPN-to-RN bridge program designed to aid Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) in transitioning to become Registered Nurses (RNs). This program acknowledges the practical skills of LPNs and provides an accelerated path to RN licensure.

ADN Programs

The ADN program is the basic, entry-level route to becoming an RN. These programs take about 2 years to complete and are regularly offered at community and technical colleges in the city. Nebraska Wesleyan University features an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program aimed at equipping students with fundamental nursing skills and knowledge. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam and begin their careers as Registered Nurses (RNs).

Direct-Entry BSN Programs

The 4-year baccalaureate nursing program has become more and more ubiquitous in recent years. With many employers requiring this type of nursing degree, some students choose to earn it from the get-go. Union College provides an Accelerated BSN program catering to individuals with non-nursing bachelor's degrees. This program offers a streamlined route to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and emphasizes comprehensive nursing training, clinical proficiency, and leadership development.

Find out more about Lincoln Accelerated BSN Programs

RN to BSN/MSN Programs in Lincoln, NE

Those RNs who are licensed and have previously earned an ADN or nursing diploma can opt to further their careers with an RN to BSN or RN to MSN program. These bridge programs offer the benefits of earning a higher degree in a shortened time span, taking into account the nursing education the RN has already completed.

RN to BSN Programs

The RN to BSN pathway allows licensed RNs to earn a baccalaureate nursing degree. Many of these programs have the option to be completed online in order to accommodate working RNs. The University of Nebraska Medical Center offers an RN-to-BSN program tailored for working Registered Nurses (RNs). This program recognizes the experience of RNs and aims to enhance their skills while obtaining a BSN degree.

Learn more about Nebraska RN to BSN programs.

RN to MSN Programs

Nurses wanting a more advanced option may decide to pursue an RN to MSN program. These programs allow licensed RNs to earn a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN). Clarkson College features an RN-to-MSN bridge program designed for RNs aspiring to advanced practice roles. This program streamlines the transition from RN to Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), paving the way for specialized positions such as nurse practitioner or nurse educator.

Learn more about Nebraska MSN programs.

List of RN to BSN/MSN Programs

We have gathered a list of RN to BSN and RN to MSN programs to help working nurses advance their education. The table below shows each school's location, city and state, along with program highlights. Use the links to visit the program pages and get more details. Review the options carefully and find the next step for your nursing career. Many schools offer flexible online options, so there are choices for every schedule.

Crete, NE

Doane University

  • RN to BSN - Nursing, R.N. to B.S.N.

    Online Learning - Website

    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Offered 100% online
    • Degree-completion program for RNs
    • Up to 72 transfer credits accepted
    • Focus on leadership and policy
    • Requires current RN license
    • Background investigation required

Lincoln, NE

Nebraska Wesleyan University

  • RN to BSN - Nursing RN-BSN (B.S.N.)

    Campus Based - Website

    • 2.5 GPA minimum
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Capstone required
    • Online course option available
    • Must hold active RN license
    • Background check and drug screen required
    • Community health capstone course
    • Forensic nursing elective

Union Adventist University

  • RN to BSN - BSN Completion Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • BSN Completion Program
    • For LPNs and RNs
    • CCNE accredited
    • Nebraska Board approved
    • 900+ clinical hours
    • High NCLEX-RN pass rates
    • 100% first-time pass rate 2024
    • Semester admissions
*Data obtained from: IPEDS 2025 survey (NCES).

APRN & Nurse Practitioner Programs in Lincoln, NE

For nurses looking to enter advanced practice as nurse practitioners, Lincoln schools have a number of options. From MSN degrees to post-graduate certificates to doctoral nursing programs, RNs have a variety of available pathways depending on their goals.

MSN Programs

The traditional graduate pathway can be found at most universities in the area. In around 2 years of study, students are well-equipped to work in a number of nurse practitioner (NP) specializations. Bryan College of Health Sciences offers an MSN program with specialized tracks, such as Nurse Anesthesia. This program equips nurses with advanced clinical and leadership skills, preparing them for roles as Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists.

Learn more about Nebraska Nurse Practitioner Programs.

Post-Master's Certificate Programs

Post-graduate certificates are designed for RNs who have completed a master's program and don't want to complete an additional master's or DNP program to change specialties. These certificates take just 1-2 years to finish. Creighton University offers post-master's nursing certificates for experienced nurses seeking specialization in nursing informatics. These certificates enhance skills in healthcare technology and data management.

Learn more about Nebraska Post-Master's Certificate Programs.

DNP and Ph.D. Programs

The terminal degree options for nurses are the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (Ph.D.) degrees. While the DNP degree is mainly focused on clinical practice, the Ph.D. degree is geared toward academia and research. The University of Nebraska Medical Center provides a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program for nurses aiming to achieve the highest level of clinical expertise and leadership. DNP programs emphasize advanced practice skills and innovative healthcare approaches.

Learn more about Nebraska DNP Programs.

List of APRN (MSN, DNP, & NP) Programs in Lincoln

We have compiled a list of Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) programs available in Lincoln, Nebraska. The following table highlights MSN, DNP, and Nurse Practitioner tracks from various institutions. For each school, find the city and state location, key program features, and a link to the official program page. This makes it easy to compare options and find the right fit for career goals.

Lincoln, NE

Bryan College of Health Sciences

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing, Nurse Educator

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format.
    • Nurse Educator track available.
    • Manageable course load.
    • Full-time working nurses supported.
    • Three to four synchronous meetings.
    • Real-time engagement with faculty.
    • Preceptor program for learning.
    • Award-winning faculty teach.

Nebraska Wesleyan University

  • BSN to MSN - MSN/MBA Joint Degree

    Online Learning - Website

    • 55 credit hours.
    • Online program format.
    • Joint MSN/MBA degree.
    • For working nurses.
    • Prepares for leadership roles.
    • Focus on business operations.
    • Saves time and money.
    • Accredited by CCNE.
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Nurse Educator - Online Learning - Website

    • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
    • 2 concentration options
    • 40 total credit hours
    • Asynchronous online classes
    • Designed for working nurses
    • Prepares for nurse educator roles
    • Faculty provides personal attention
    • Emphasis on trans-cultural nursing
*Source: IPEDS 2025 postsecondary education data, NCES.

Comprehensive List of Nursing Schools Near Lincoln, NE

We've gathered a comprehensive list of nursing schools near Lincoln, NE. The table below shows each school's city and state, highlights from their nursing programs, and direct links to program pages. Whether starting a nursing career or advancing an education, this list helps find the right program. Explore the options and take the next step toward a rewarding nursing career.
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Crete, NE

Doane University

  • Bachelor's - Nursing, R.N. to B.S.N.

    Online Learning - Website

    • Degree-completion program for RNs
    • Offered on Lincoln campus and online
    • Focus on professional development and leadership
    • Requires current active RN license
    • Up to 72 transfer credits accepted
    • Liberal arts education for nurses
    • Background investigation required
    • Personal medical insurance required

Lincoln, NE

Bryan College of Health Sciences

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Nursing Degree

    Campus Based - Website

    • 12-Month program
    • Full-time enrollment
    • Starts fall
    • 1000 clinical hours
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Small class sizes
    • 1:7 faculty-to-student ratio
    • Starting pay $34-41 per hour
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Starts spring/fall
    • 100% licensure pass rate
    • 1000 clinical hours
    • Prepares for NCLEX
    • Small class sizes
    • 1:7 faculty-to-student ratio in clinicals
    • Skills Labs and Simulation Center
    • Two campus locations

Nebraska Wesleyan University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Capstone required
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • C+ or better in nursing courses
    • Traditional BSN plan of study available
    • Global health course required
    • Leadership and issues course included
    • Evidence-based practice coursework

Southeast Community College Area

  • Associate - Associate Degree Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • $8,573 total program tuition
    • Complete in 4 Terms (full-time), 8 Terms (part-time)
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • Starts fall/spring
    • 87.5% licensure pass rate
    • $85,800 median earnings
    • 518 clinical hours
    • Prerequisite courses required

Union Adventist University

  • Bachelor's - Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
    • 4-Year program
    • 2 start dates per year
    • 97.06% licensure pass rate
    • Cohort-based structure
    • 900 clinical hours
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • Oldest BSN program in Nebraska

Seward, NE

Concordia University-Nebraska

  • Bachelor's - BSN Dual Degree 3+1 Nursing Program

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 4-Year program
    • Complete in in just four years
    • 149 total credit hours
    • 100% job placement rate
    • 3.0 GPA minimum
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available
*IPEDS 2025 survey data, provided by NCES, U.S. Department of Education.