2027 Best Nursing Schools in Topeka

Rankings help students compare nursing programs and make informed decisions. In our ranking of the Best Nursing Schools in Topeka, Registerednursing.org uses NCLEX pass rates as the sole criterion to evaluate program quality. This objective approach ensures prospective nurses can trust the results. Learn more about our methodology here: https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/.
#1

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) is a four-year, on-campus program blending rigorous academics with hands-on clinical training. First two years cover general education and prerequisites; the final two focus on full-time nursing coursework. Curriculum spans obstetrics, pediatrics, emergency, community, and primary care. The Regional Simulation Center uses high-tech mannequins for realistic practice, from delivering babies to managing ICU patients. Small classes ensure personalized faculty attention. Graduates are eligible for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam, and the program reports a 100% placement rate. Accredited by CCNE, the BSN also offers scholarships and tuition waiver programs for out-of-state students.

  • CCNE accredited
  • 4-Year program
  • 100% job placement rate
  • 2.7 GPA minimum
  • 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Prepares for NCLEX
  • Financial aid available
  • Scholarships available
  • Regional Simulation Center with innovative technology

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Obstetrics)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Washburn University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program offers a comprehensive education with a focus on obstetrics. Students experience hands-on learning through the Regional Simulation Center, where they can participate in simulated baby deliveries using high-tech mannequins. The curriculum covers obstetrics alongside other areas like pediatrics, emergency care, and community health, ensuring a well-rounded foundation. Students benefit from one-on-one faculty mentorship and prepare for the NCLEX licensure exam. With a 100% placement rate and average salary of $55,640, graduates launch rewarding careers in obstetric nursing. The four-year, on-campus program requires a 2.7 GPA in prerequisites and is accredited by CCNE, providing a quality education in a supportive environment.

  • CCNE accredited
  • 5 concentration options
  • 4-Year program
  • Complete in can be completed in four years
  • 100% job placement rate
  • 2.7 GPA minimum
  • 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Prepares for NCLEX
  • Financial aid available

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Pediatrics)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Washburn University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, with a focus on pediatrics, prepares you for a rewarding career caring for children. The on-campus program combines rigorous coursework with hands-on clinical experiences in obstetrics, pediatrics, emergency, community, and primary care. You'll practice skills in a state-of-the-art simulation center and learn from professors who provide personalized mentorship. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN and enter the nursing workforce, with a 100% placement rate and a bright career outlook. The program is CCNE accredited and offers nursing-specific scholarships. Complete your degree in four years with a supportive learning environment.

  • CCNE accredited
  • 4-Year program
  • 100% job placement rate
  • 2.7 GPA minimum
  • 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Prepares for NCLEX
  • Financial aid available
  • Scholarships available
  • Clinicals in pediatrics, obstetrics, emergency

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Emergency Department)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Washburn University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program offers hands-on learning from day one. You'll train in a regional simulation center with high-tech mannequins, practicing everything from delivering a baby to managing emergency department crises. The curriculum covers obstetrics, pediatrics, community health, primary care, and emergency nursing. You'll work closely with professors who provide personalized mentoring. After completing prerequisite courses, you'll dive into two years of nursing coursework. Graduates are eligible for the NCLEX-RN licensure and enter a field with a 100% placement rate and an average salary of $55,640. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and offers generous scholarships and financial aid.

  • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
  • 5 concentration options
  • 4-Year program
  • Complete in four years
  • 100% job placement rate
  • 2.7 GPA minimum
  • 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Prepares for NCLEX
  • Financial aid available
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#2

Rasmussen University-Kansas

Topeka, KS - Private 4-year - rasmussen.edu

Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Rasmussen University's Professional Nursing Associate's degree (ADN) is a pre-licensure program designed to prepare you for a career as a registered nurse. The curriculum blends online coursework, on-campus labs, and clinical field experiences, giving you hands-on patient care training. You'll learn nursing fundamentals, health assessment, pharmacology, and more. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and pursue roles in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. As part of a network of over 8,500 nursing students and 19,500 alumni, you'll benefit from strong mentoring and support. The program offers multiple start dates and financial aid options, plus tuition savings for many employers. Whether you're starting fresh or advancing from an LPN, this ADN provides a solid foundation for your nursing career.

  • Employer reimbursement supported
  • Financial aid available
  • Online, on-campus, and field experience
  • Pre-licensure program leading to RN
  • Part of a large nursing network
  • Nursing information sessions available

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing - BSN Degree

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Rasmussen University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program in Kansas offers a hybrid learning experience that combines online coursework with in-person labs and clinicals. The curriculum covers patient care, evidence-based practice, leadership, and emerging healthcare technologies. Students gain hands-on skills in state-of-the-art simulation centers, preparing for the NCLEX-RN exam and careers in hospitals, clinical practice, and nursing leadership. With multiple entry tracks including a standard 33-month path and an accelerated 18-month option for second-degree students, the program accommodates diverse backgrounds. No prerequisite courses are required, and eight start dates per year provide flexibility. CCNE accreditation ensures educational quality, and graduates can pursue advanced degrees through an accelerated master's pathway.

  • CCNE accredited
  • Entrance exam required
  • Exams: HESI
  • 33-Month program
  • 180 total credit hours
  • 43 total courses
  • 8 start dates per year
  • 82% licensure pass rate
  • $0 application fee
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
Show 1 More Programs ˅
*Data citation: NCES, IPEDS 2025 Final Release Data.

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

We've gathered a comprehensive list of RN to BSN/MSN programs from schools across the country. In the table below, you'll find each school's city and state, key program highlights, and a direct link to the program page. This makes it easy to compare your options and find a program that fits your goals. Take a look and start planning your next step in nursing education.

Topeka, KS

Rasmussen University-Kansas

  • RN to BSN - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program with in-person clinicals.
    • Finish in as few as 12–18 months.
    • 70 credit hours required.
    • 17 courses to complete.
    • $345 tuition per credit.
    • Estimated total cost $24,650.
    • Savings reduce cost to $14,690.
    • Unencumbered RN license required.

Washburn University

  • RN to BSN - RN-to-BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Ranked #3 in Kansas by RegisteredNursing.org
    • No on-campus residency required
    • Previously earned credits never expire
    • Short 8-week course sessions
    • Fully online for working professionals
    • Reality-based instruction from experienced nurses
    • Research in leadership, quality, safety
    • Program-wide tuition reduction applied
*IPEDS 2025 data files, National Center for Education Statistics.

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

Here is a list of APRN programs in Topeka, Kansas. These schools offer MSN, DNP, and NP tracks for nurses seeking advanced practice roles. The table below shows each school’s location, program highlights, and direct links to their program pages. Use these details to compare options and find the right fit for your career goals. Click through to learn about admission requirements, clinical placements, and more.

Topeka, KS

Washburn University

  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CCNE accredited
    • 2 concentration options
    • 74 total credit hours
    • 1 start dates per year
    • Starts summer
    • Synchronous and asynchronous options
    • Average Salary $120,610 (FNP)
    • 1000 clinical hours
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family nurse practitioner (FNP), Psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP) - Online Learning - Website

    • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
    • 2 concentration options
    • Starts summer
    • Synchronous and asynchronous options
    • 1000 clinical hours
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available
    • BSN-DNP requires 74-76 credits
*Higher education data sourced from: IPEDS 2025, National Center for Education Statistics.

Comprehensive List of Nursing Schools Near Topeka, KS

We've put together a comprehensive list of nursing schools near Topeka, Kansas. The table below highlights each school's city and state location, notable program highlights, and direct links to their program pages. Whether pursuing an associate, bachelor's, or more advanced nursing degree, this resource helps compare options in the area. Explore the list to find a program that fits, then click through to get the full story.

Topeka, KS

Rasmussen University-Kansas

  • Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Employer reimbursement supported
    • Financial aid available
    • Online, on-campus, and field experience
    • Pre-licensure program leading to RN
    • Part of a large nursing network
    • Nursing information sessions available
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing - BSN Degree

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CCNE accredited
    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: HESI
    • 33-Month program
    • 180 total credit hours
    • 43 total courses
    • 8 start dates per year
    • 82% licensure pass rate

Washburn University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • CCNE accredited
    • 4-Year program
    • 100% job placement rate
    • 2.7 GPA minimum
    • 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Prepares for NCLEX
    • Financial aid available
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Emergency Department - Campus Based - Website

    • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
    • 5 concentration options
    • 4-Year program
    • Complete in four years
    • 100% job placement rate
    • 2.7 GPA minimum
    • 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
    • Prerequisite courses required
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Obstetrics - Campus Based - Website

    • CCNE accredited
    • 5 concentration options
    • 4-Year program
    • Complete in can be completed in four years
    • 100% job placement rate
    • 2.7 GPA minimum
    • 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
    • Prerequisite courses required
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Pediatrics - Campus Based - Website

    • CCNE accredited
    • 4-Year program
    • 100% job placement rate
    • 2.7 GPA minimum
    • 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Prepares for NCLEX
    • Financial aid available
*U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS 2025, National Center for Education Statistics.