Nursing Programs in Topeka, KS
Topeka, Kansas, is a thriving hub for nursing education, offering a wide array of nursing programs tailored to meet diverse educational aspirations and career objectives. Whether you’re just starting your nursing journey or a seasoned healthcare professional looking to advance your career, Topeka has a range of programs designed to fulfill your unique needs. In this article, we’ll explore the diverse nursing programs available in Topeka, categorized for your convenience.
To get started in nursing or to advance your nursing career, check out our accredited program listings sections below:

2026 Best Nursing Schools in Topeka
Choosing the right nursing program is crucial for future success. This ranking of the Best Nursing Schools in Topeka by Registerednursing.org helps students compare programs based on NCLEX pass rates. Our methodology focuses on these rates to identify top performers. For details on how we compile these rankings, visit https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/.
Yearly Pass Rate Trends (Statewide or City/Region)
No data available for this analysis.
Yearly Nursing Graduates
No data available for this analysis.
BSN vs ADN Pass Rate Comparison
No data available for this analysis.
Top Performing Schools
No data available for this analysis.
Pass Rate by Program Size
No data available for this analysis.
Geographic Trends
No data available for this analysis.
Biggest Improvements
No data available for this analysis.
Consistently High Performing Schools
No data available for this analysis.
Washburn University
Topeka, KS - Public 4-Year - washburn.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Washburn University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program provides comprehensive preparation for nursing careers through hands-on clinical experiences in areas like obstetrics and pediatrics. This four-year campus-based program requires 30 hours of prerequisite coursework with a 2.7 GPA and ACT/SAT scores for admission. The program boasts a 100% placement rate and features state-of-the-art simulation technology at the Regional Simulation Center. NCLEX pass rates have shown significant improvement, reaching 97.5% in 2024 from 79.72% in 2022. Accredited by CCNE, the program offers financial aid and scholarships while preparing graduates for the NCLEX exam and careers with average salaries around $55,640.
- Four-year program duration
- Hands-on clinical experiences
- NCLEX exam preparation
- 100% placement rate
- Personalized faculty attention
- State-of-the-art simulation center
- Focus on multiple nursing areas
- Prerequisite 30 hours coursework
- 2.7 GPA requirement
- Financial aid available
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Obstetrics)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Washburn University's BSN program with an Obstetrics concentration prepares students specifically for maternal and newborn care through targeted clinical experiences and simulation training. This four-year campus program requires ACT/SAT scores and 30 prerequisite hours with a 2.7 GPA for admission. The curriculum blends general education with specialized obstetrics coursework, utilizing high-tech simulation centers for hands-on learning. NCLEX performance has improved dramatically, with pass rates climbing from 79.72% in 2022 to 97.5% in 2024. Graduates are eligible for NCLEX-RN licensure, with financial aid and scholarships available to support students pursuing careers in this high-demand nursing specialty.
- Four-year program duration.
- Hands-on learning experiences.
- Eligible for NCLEX post-graduation.
- 2.7 GPA prerequisite requirement.
- Scholarships and financial aid available.
- Bright career outlook in nursing.
- Focus on obstetrics concentration.
- On-campus learning environment.
- Personalized attention from professors.
- High-tech simulation center access.
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Pediatrics)
Campus Based - Visit Website
This Pediatric-focused BSN program at Washburn University emphasizes child healthcare through specialized clinical rotations and simulation experiences. The four-year campus program requires ACT/SAT entrance exams along with 30 prerequisite hours maintaining a 2.7 GPA. Students gain practical pediatric nursing skills using innovative simulation technology while receiving personalized faculty attention. NCLEX pass rates have shown consistent growth, reaching 97.5% in 2024 from 79.72% in 2022, indicating strong exam preparation. Financial aid and scholarship options make this pediatric nursing pathway accessible, with graduates well-prepared for NCLEX-RN certification and careers caring for children in various healthcare settings.
- Four-year program duration
- Pediatrics concentration available
- Hands-on learning experiences
- NCLEX-RN exam eligibility
- 2.7 GPA prerequisite requirement
- Financial aid options
- Scholarships available
- Innovative simulation technology
- Personalized professor attention
- Bright career forecast
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Emergency Department)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Washburn University's Emergency Department concentration within its BSN program trains students for fast-paced emergency care environments through specialized clinical experiences. This CCNE-accredited four-year campus program requires ACT/SAT scores and 30 prerequisite hours with a 2.7 GPA. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on emergency care skills development using advanced simulation technology. NCLEX performance has strengthened significantly, with pass rates improving from 79.72% in 2022 to 97.5% in 2024. Graduates qualify for NCLEX-RN licensure, benefiting from financial aid opportunities and the program's high placement rate while preparing for demanding careers in emergency nursing settings.
- Four-year program duration
- Hands-on learning experiences
- Emergency Department concentration
- Accredited by CCNE
- Eligible for NCLEX-RN exam
- 2.7 GPA prerequisite requirement
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships offered
- On-campus program
- High placement rate
Rasmussen University-Kansas
Topeka, KS - Private 4-year - rasmussen.edu
Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Rasmussen University-Kansas offers a hybrid Associate Degree in Nursing program that combines online coursework with on-campus learning for flexibility. This program prepares students for RN licensure with a curriculum blending theoretical knowledge and practical experience. The 2024 NCLEX pass rate for the ADN program was 89.9%, showing strong preparation outcomes. Admission requires a high school diploma or equivalent, but no ACT/SAT exam is specified. With military-friendly policies and flexible scheduling, this program provides a solid foundation for immediate entry into nursing or further education.
- Hybrid learning format.
- Prepares for RN licensure.
- Flexible scheduling options.
- Combines theory and practice.
- High school diploma required.
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing - BSN Degree
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Rasmussen University-Kansas provides a CCNE-accredited Bachelor of Science in Nursing program in a hybrid format with online coursework and in-person clinicals. This BSN program prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam, with a 2024 pass rate of 83.33%. Multiple entry tracks allow completion in 18-33 months without prerequisite courses. No entrance exam is required for admission. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, leadership, and patient care through hands-on clinical experiences. Financial aid and military benefits are available, with small class sizes and flexible start dates supporting diverse student needs.
- CCNE accredited program
- Hybrid learning model
- Multiple entry tracks
- No prerequisite courses
- Financial aid available
- Military benefits eligible
- Small class sizes
- Hands-on clinical experiences
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- Flexible start dates
Entry-Level ADN & BSN Programs in Topeka, KS
To initiate a career as a Registered Nurse (RN), prospective students in Topeka 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 cater to individuals who do not already hold a nursing license.
LPN to RN Programs
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) are already well-versed in providing basic patient care and assisting with daily living activities. For LPNs seeking to expand their skills and become licensed as RNs, some schools in Topeka offer LPN to RN bridge programs, providing an accelerated pathway to becoming a Registered Nurse. Washburn University, for example, offers an LPN-to-RN bridge program designed to assist LPNs in transitioning to the RN role. This program acknowledges the practical skills of LPNs and provides an expedited route to RN licensure.
ADN Programs
The ADN program serves as the fundamental, entry-level route to becoming an RN. These programs typically take about 2 years to complete and are often available at local community and technical colleges. Baker University, for instance, offers an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program designed to equip students with essential nursing skills and knowledge. Graduates are well-prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam and embark on their careers as Registered Nurses.
Direct-Entry BSN Programs
The four-year baccalaureate nursing program has gained prominence in recent years, with many employers now requiring this level of nursing degree. Some students in Topeka opt to pursue a BSN degree from the beginning. Washburn University offers a traditional BSN program, emphasizing comprehensive nursing training, clinical proficiency, and leadership development. This program is tailored to individuals without prior nursing experience but with a passion for the profession.
Find out more about Kansas Accelerated BSN Programs
RN to BSN/MSN Programs in Topeka, KS
For licensed RNs who already hold an ADN or nursing diploma, the RN to BSN or RN to MSN programs provide opportunities to advance their careers while considering their existing education. These bridge programs enable RNs to earn higher degrees in a shorter time frame, building upon their prior nursing knowledge.
RN to BSN Programs
The RN to BSN pathway allows licensed RNs to attain a baccalaureate nursing degree. Many of these programs offer online options to accommodate working RNs. Washburn University, for example, provides an RN-to-BSN program tailored for working RNs. This program recognizes the experience of RNs and aims to enhance their skills while earning a BSN degree.
Learn more about Kansas RN to BSN programs.
RN to MSN Programs
For those nurses seeking more advanced roles, RN to MSN programs are an attractive option. These programs enable licensed RNs to earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). Washburn University offers an RN-to-MSN bridge program, streamlining the transition from RN to Master of Science in Nursing. This paves the way for specialized positions such as nurse practitioner or nurse educator.
Learn more about Kansas MSN programs.
List of RN to BSN/MSN Programs
Topeka, KS
Washburn University
- RN to BSN - RN-to-BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online RN to BSN
- 18-month program completion
- No on-campus residency
- Minimum 2.5 GPA required
- Active RN license needed
- 8-week course sessions
- Previously earned credits accepted
- #3 Kansas online RN-BSN program
APRN & Nurse Practitioner Programs in Topeka, KS
MSN Programs
In Topeka, aspiring nurse practitioners have several MSN programs to choose from. These traditional graduate pathways usually take about two years to complete and prepare students for various nurse practitioner specializations. The University of Kansas School of Nursing offers an MSN program with specialized tracks, including Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
Learn more about Kansas Nurse Practitioner Programs.
Post-Master's Certificate Programs
Post-graduate certificates are designed for nurses who have already completed a master's program but wish to change specialties without pursuing an additional master's or DNP degree. Baker University offers post-master's nursing certificates, providing experienced nurses with the opportunity to specialize in areas such as nurse education or leadership.
Learn more about Kansas Post-Master's Certificate Programs.
DNP and Ph.D. Programs
For nurses aspiring to achieve the highest level of expertise and leadership, Topeka schools offer terminal degree options, including the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (Ph.D.) degrees. The DNP degree primarily focuses on clinical practice, while the Ph.D. degree is geared toward academia and research. The University of Kansas School of Nursing provides a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program, emphasizing advanced practice skills and innovative healthcare approaches.
In Topeka, the wide range of nursing programs ensures that individuals at all stages of their nursing careers can find the educational pathways that align with their goals and aspirations. Whether you're taking your first steps in nursing or aiming for advanced practice, Topeka has the resources and opportunities to support your journey in the field of healthcare.
Learn more about Kansas DNP Programs.
List of APRN (MSN, DNP, & NP) Programs in Topeka
Topeka, KS
Washburn University
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Online flexible learning format
- 1,000 direct patient care hours
- Nationally accredited program
- 74-76 total credit hours
- Summer start program
- Faculty with active clinical practices
- Bright career outlook
- Average salary $120,610
Comprehensive List of Nursing Schools Near Topeka, KS
Topeka, KS
Rasmussen University-Kansas
- Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning format.
- Prepares for RN licensure.
- Flexible scheduling options.
- Combines theory and practice.
- High school diploma required.
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing - BSN Degree
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited program
- Hybrid learning model
- Multiple entry tracks
- No prerequisite courses
- Financial aid available
- Military benefits eligible
- Small class sizes
- Hands-on clinical experiences
Washburn University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Four-year program duration
- Hands-on clinical experiences
- NCLEX exam preparation
- 100% placement rate
- Personalized faculty attention
- State-of-the-art simulation center
- Focus on multiple nursing areas
- Prerequisite 30 hours coursework
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Emergency Department - Campus Based - Website
- Four-year program duration
- Hands-on learning experiences
- Emergency Department concentration
- Accredited by CCNE
- Eligible for NCLEX-RN exam
- 2.7 GPA prerequisite requirement
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships offered
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Obstetrics - Campus Based - Website
- Four-year program duration.
- Hands-on learning experiences.
- Eligible for NCLEX post-graduation.
- 2.7 GPA prerequisite requirement.
- Scholarships and financial aid available.
- Bright career outlook in nursing.
- Focus on obstetrics concentration.
- On-campus learning environment.
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Pediatrics - Campus Based - Website
- Four-year program duration
- Pediatrics concentration available
- Hands-on learning experiences
- NCLEX-RN exam eligibility
- 2.7 GPA prerequisite requirement
- Financial aid options
- Scholarships available
- Innovative simulation technology
