2026 Best Nursing Schools in Lincoln

Rankings help students identify quality programs by comparing objective metrics. Registerednursing.org is creating the rankings for the Best Nursing Schools in Lincoln, using NCLEX pass rates as the sole criteria to evaluate program effectiveness. For more details on how we compile these rankings, visit our methodology page: https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/.

Yearly Pass Rate Trends

Analysis of pass rates over time reveals patterns in program performance and student outcomes.

  • No statistically significant data available for yearly pass rate trends in this region.

Top Performing Schools

Identifying schools with consistently high pass rates helps prospective students choose reliable programs.

  • No schools met the minimum threshold of 20 total students in the dataset for this analysis.

Pass Rate by Program Size

Examining how program size correlates with pass rates provides insights into educational quality across different scales.

  • Insufficient data available to categorize programs by size and calculate meaningful average pass rates.

Biggest Improvements

Tracking schools that show significant pass rate increases highlights programs making effective changes.

  • No data available to calculate improvements from earliest to latest years for schools in this area.

Consistently High Performing Schools

Schools maintaining high pass rates over multiple years demonstrate sustained educational excellence.

  • No schools in the dataset had ?2 years of data with average pass rates exceeding 90%.
#1

Southeast Community College Area

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

Associate - Associate Degree Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Southeast Community College Area's Associate Degree Nursing program in Lincoln provides comprehensive training for entry-level nursing roles, with graduates eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam. The program emphasizes critical thinking and teamwork skills applicable across diverse healthcare environments. It offers both traditional and LPN-to-RN pathways, accommodating various educational backgrounds. Accredited by ACEN, this campus-based program features hybrid/in-person formats with fall, spring, and summer start dates. With an estimated cost of $11,685, it represents an accessible option for nursing education. The program prepares graduates for licensure in compact states, expanding career mobility. For 2022, the NCLEX pass rate was 83.64% for 55 students. No entrance exam is required for this associate-level program.

  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
  • Offers LPN-to-RN option.
  • Accredited by ACEN.
  • Available in Lincoln, NE.
  • Hybrid/In-Person formats.
  • Fall/Spring/Summer starts.
  • Full-time schedule.
  • Estimated cost $11,685.
  • Compassionate care focus.
  • Critical thinking emphasis.
#2

Nebraska Wesleyan University

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

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Nebraska Wesleyan University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that integrates liberal arts with comprehensive clinical training. This 4-year campus-based program requires a competitive admission process including a 3.0 GPA, prerequisite courses, and clinical readiness assessments. Students complete over 800 clinical hours in diverse settings, supported by small class sizes and experienced faculty. The curriculum includes NCLEX-RN preparation, though specific pass rates aren't provided. Direct entry options are available for high-achieving students, and the program emphasizes critical thinking, communication skills, and global health perspectives. No ACT or SAT requirement is mentioned in the provided information.

  • 4-year BSN degree
  • Over 800 clinical hours
  • Small class sizes
  • NCLEX-RN prep course
  • Competitive admission
  • 3.0 GPA requirement
  • Direct entry options
  • Experienced faculty
  • Comprehensive curriculum
  • Hands-on skills lab
#3

Bryan College of Health Sciences

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

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Bryan College of Health Sciences' Bachelor of Science in Nursing program provides a comprehensive education blending natural sciences, social sciences, communications, and humanities. The program requires an ACT or SAT entrance exam and features a remarkable 1:6 clinical faculty-to-student ratio with over 1,200 clinical hours - the highest in Nebraska. Graduates achieve a 100% NCLEX pass rate as of May 2023, supported by hands-on training at the on-campus Bryan Medical Center and state-of-the-art Simulation Center. The program offers a job guarantee upon acceptance with starting salaries up to $60,000 and maintains a 100% employment rate for graduates.

  • Low 1:6 faculty-to-student ratio
  • Over 1,200 clinical hours
  • 100% NCLEX pass rate
  • Job guarantee upon acceptance
  • No prerequisites required
  • Comprehensive curriculum
  • Hands-on learning experiences
  • State-of-the-art Simulation Center
  • Training at Bryan Medical Center
  • Strong tradition of high NCLEX pass rates

Bachelor's - Accelerated Nursing Degree

Campus Based - Visit Website

Bryan College of Health Sciences' Accelerated Nursing Degree is a 12-month BSN program designed for students with previous bachelor's degrees or significant college experience. The program requires an ACT or SAT entrance exam and maintains a 3.0 GPA requirement with prerequisite courses in anatomy, microbiology, and related subjects. With a 1:6 clinical faculty-to-student ratio and over 1,200 clinical hours, graduates achieve a 100% NCLEX pass rate. The program offers job guarantees at Bryan Health facilities with starting salaries up to $60,000 and accepts transfer credits for courses with grades of C or better.

  • 12-month BSN program
  • 3.0 GPA requirement
  • 1:6 clinical ratio
  • 1,200+ clinical hours
  • 100% NCLEX pass rate
  • Job guarantee
  • Starting salary up to $60,000
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Transfer credits accepted
  • Campus-based program
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#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

Concordia University-Nebraska's BSN Dual Degree 3+1 Nursing Program offers an accelerated pathway to earn both a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Creighton University and a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from Concordia in just four years. This hybrid program combines online coursework with in-person clinical experiences, emphasizing Christian leadership perspectives. Students benefit from mentorship opportunities across both institutions and a supportive campus community. The program requires ACT or SAT scores for admission and maintains a 100% career outcome rate. While specific NCLEX pass rates aren't provided, the program's rigorous curriculum and clinical training prepare graduates for nursing licensure and professional success.

  • Accelerated dual degree program
  • Christian perspective curriculum
  • Mentorship from both universities
  • Financial aid available
  • 149 credit hours
  • 100% career outcome rate
  • 14:1 student-to-faculty ratio
  • Hybrid program type
  • Clinical experiences included
  • Eligible for Nebraska Nursing Scholarship
#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 online R.N. to B.S.N. program enables licensed registered nurses to advance their careers through a flexible, distance-learning format. This degree-completion curriculum emphasizes leadership development, healthcare policy analysis, and professional growth within a liberal arts framework. Admission requires a current, unrestricted RN license in the United States; no ACT or SAT entrance exam is needed for this bachelor's-level program. The program prepares graduates for broader roles in healthcare by integrating coursework in community health, legal/ethical issues, and global health perspectives. While specific NCLEX pass rates aren't provided, the program's focus on evidence-based practice and clinical planning supports professional competency.

  • Online program format
  • Requires current RN license
  • Focus on leadership and policy
  • Liberal arts education foundation
  • Prepares for global health challenges
  • Innovative problem-solving curriculum
  • Professional development emphasis
  • Healthcare economics included
  • Community health coursework
  • Legal and ethical issues focus
*IPEDS 2024 institutional statistics, NCES, U.S. Department of Education.

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

If you're a registered nurse looking to advance your career, exploring RN to BSN or MSN programs can open new doors. These programs build on your current skills and often offer flexible online options to fit your schedule. Below, you'll find a table listing schools by city and state, with highlights of each program and links to learn more. This information helps you compare options and find a path that matches your goals in nursing education.

Crete, NE

Doane University

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

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online degree completion program
    • Designed for licensed RNs
    • Requires active RN license
    • Comprehensive leadership curriculum
    • Focuses on professional development
    • Covers healthcare policy topics
    • Interprofessional team skills
    • Maximum 72 transfer credits

Lincoln, NE

Nebraska Wesleyan University

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

    Campus Based - Website

    • RN-BSN Degree Completion
    • 30 Total Credit Hours
    • For Licensed RNs
    • GPA Requirement 2.5+
    • Prerequisite Course Requirements
    • Nursing License Mandatory
    • Multiple Nursing Electives
    • Leadership Management Course
*Source: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/, IPEDS 2024 release.

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

If you are looking for advanced nursing programs in Lincoln, this list can help you find options. It includes schools offering APRN degrees like MSN, DNP, and NP programs. You can see each school's location, key program details, and links to their program pages. Explore the table to compare and choose the right fit for your career goals in nursing.

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

    • Online 40-credit MSN degree
    • Specialized Nurse Educator track
    • Flexible start dates: August/January
    • Accredited by CCNE
    • Focus on trans-cultural nursing
    • Teaches educational theories
    • Develops curriculum skills
    • All classes online
*Data source: NCES Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System, 2024.

Comprehensive List of Nursing Schools Near Lincoln, NE

If you want to become a nurse near Lincoln, Nebraska, you have many good options. This list shows nursing schools in the area. You can see where each school is, what programs they offer, and find links to learn more. Check the table below to compare schools and find the right fit for your nursing career goals.
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Crete, NE

Doane University

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

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format
    • Requires current RN license
    • Focus on leadership and policy
    • Liberal arts education foundation
    • Prepares for global health challenges
    • Innovative problem-solving curriculum
    • Professional development emphasis
    • Healthcare economics included

Lincoln, NE

Bryan College of Health Sciences

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Nursing Degree

    Campus Based - Website

    • 12-month BSN program
    • 3.0 GPA requirement
    • 1:6 clinical ratio
    • 1,200+ clinical hours
    • 100% NCLEX pass rate
    • Job guarantee
    • Starting salary up to $60,000
    • Prerequisite courses required
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Low 1:6 faculty-to-student ratio
    • Over 1,200 clinical hours
    • 100% NCLEX pass rate
    • Job guarantee upon acceptance
    • No prerequisites required
    • Comprehensive curriculum
    • Hands-on learning experiences
    • State-of-the-art Simulation Center

Nebraska Wesleyan University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 4-year BSN degree
    • Over 800 clinical hours
    • Small class sizes
    • NCLEX-RN prep course
    • Competitive admission
    • 3.0 GPA requirement
    • Direct entry options
    • Experienced faculty

Southeast Community College Area

  • Associate - Associate Degree Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
    • Offers LPN-to-RN option.
    • Accredited by ACEN.
    • Available in Lincoln, NE.
    • Hybrid/In-Person formats.
    • Fall/Spring/Summer starts.
    • Full-time schedule.
    • Estimated cost $11,685.

Union Adventist University

  • Bachelor's - Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Established in 1896.
    • High NCLEX-RN pass rates.
    • Four-year curriculum for freshmen.
    • Five-semester track for transfers.
    • Over 900 clinical hours.
    • Accredited by CCNE.
    • LPN-BSN and RN-BSN options.
    • Sigma Theta Tau chapter.

Seward, NE

Concordia University-Nebraska

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

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Accelerated dual degree program
    • Christian perspective curriculum
    • Mentorship from both universities
    • Financial aid available
    • 149 credit hours
    • 100% career outcome rate
    • 14:1 student-to-faculty ratio
    • Hybrid program type
*NCES IPEDS database, 2024 release. Available at: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/