Best Nursing Schools in Alabama

Last Updated On Apr 30, 2025

Expert Verified: Catherine Burger, MSOL, RN, NEA-BC, LNC

8 Min Read

2025 Best Nursing Schools in Alabama

Finding the best nursing schools in Alabama is crucial for aspiring nurses, and registerednursing.org has done the work to rank them for you. Our rankings consider key factors like NCLEX pass rates, which show how well schools prepare students for the nursing licensure exam. Schools with higher pass rates often provide better education and resources, making them a smart choice for your future. Choosing a school with a strong NCLEX pass rate can boost your chances of becoming a licensed nurse. Learn more about how we rank these schools by visiting our rankings methodology page. It's important to pick a school that sets you up for success from the start.

University of Alabama in Huntsville

Huntsville, AL - Public 4-Year - uah.edu

Bachelor's - BSN

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Alabama in Huntsville's BSN program is a five-semester, campus-based pre-licensure track aimed at students without a prior degree, preparing them for the NCLEX-RN. It favors applicants with over 30 credit hours and a robust academic background, offering opportunities like the Dean's Scholar Program and Honors College for eligible freshmen. The curriculum is designed to instill comprehensive nursing knowledge, clinical proficiency, and exceptional patient care skills, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for the healthcare sector. Notably, the program is military-friendly, catering to a diverse student body. Entrance exams such as ACT or SAT are required for admission, aligning with bachelor's level program standards.

5-semester program length
Pre-licensure BSN concentration
Eligible for NCLEX-RN exam
Priority for UAH students
Dean's Scholar Program eligible
Honors College opportunity
Campus-based program
Focus on clinical skills
Strong patient care foundation
For aspiring nurses

Troy University

Troy, AL - Public 4-Year - troy.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Troy University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program stands out for its rigorous curriculum aimed at equipping students with the necessary skills for a successful nursing career. Emphasizing practical experience, the program includes clinical rotations and simulation labs to prepare students for real-world challenges. Known for its high NCLEX-RN pass rates, the program ensures graduates are ready to excel in the licensure exam. Prospective students must submit an application, official transcripts, and a $20 fee. This BSN program paves the way for careers in various nursing specialties, significantly boosting professional growth and salary prospects. Notably, the program does not specify the requirement of an ACT or SAT for admission, focusing instead on academic transcripts and application completeness.

Campus-based program
High NCLEX-RN pass rate
Hands-on clinical experience
Diverse nursing career paths
Application fee $20
Transcripts required for admission
Focus on real-world practice
Prepares for licensure
Comprehensive nursing curriculum
Enhances career opportunities

Auburn University

Auburn, AL - Public 4-Year - auburn.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Auburn University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program stands out for its rigorous curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with extensive clinical practice. Designed for aspiring nurses, the program covers health promotion, acute care, and leadership in nursing, preparing students for the complexities of the healthcare field. Admission requires prerequisite courses and a separate application to the College of Nursing, with tuition following Auburn's standard rates plus nursing-specific fees. Notably, the program does not mandate an ACT or SAT for entry, focusing instead on a holistic review of applicants. Its military-friendly status and emphasis on evidence-based practice make it a top choice for students seeking a comprehensive nursing education.

Campus-based program
Comprehensive nursing curriculum
Diverse clinical locations
Focus on leadership skills
Evidence-based practice emphasis
Requires prerequisite courses
Separate College of Nursing application
Follows Auburn tuition structure
Additional nursing-specific fees
Blend of academic and practical learning

Oakwood University

Huntsville, AL - Private 4-year - www2.oakwood.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Oakwood University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program that stands out for its holistic approach, integrating bio-psychosocial and spiritual care into its curriculum. This campus-based program is designed to prepare students for the complexities of modern healthcare, emphasizing critical thinking, ethical practices, and comprehensive patient care. With NCLEX pass rates reaching up to 100%, the program demonstrates its effectiveness in readying graduates for successful nursing careers. Admission is competitive, requiring specific coursework and standardized test scores, ensuring a high-caliber student body. As an HBCU with a Seventh Day Adventist affiliation, Oakwood provides a unique educational environment that fosters both professional and personal growth.

Campus-based program
Focuses on bio-psychosocial care
Includes spiritual needs
High NCLEX pass rates
Hands-on clinical experiences
Competitive admission requirements
Prepares for professional roles
Emphasizes ethical practices
Strong critical thinking focus
Comprehensive care training

Jacksonville State University

Jacksonville, AL - Public 4-Year - jsu.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Jacksonville State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program designed to equip students with the necessary skills for a successful nursing career. This campus-based program begins with foundational academic courses before advancing to hands-on clinical training. Prospective students must submit ACT or SAT scores, achieve a minimum GPA of 2.75, and complete prerequisite courses. Non-native English speakers are required to demonstrate proficiency through standardized tests. The program mandates criminal background checks and drug screenings for admission. Graduates are prepared to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam, with upper division admissions available in both spring and fall semesters. For more details on costs and requirements, visit the university's official website.

Campus-based program
Requires ACT/SAT scores
Minimum 2.75 GPA
English proficiency test required
Background checks and drug screens
Eligible for NCLEX-RN exam
Upper division admissions in spring/fall
Core academic courses first
Clinical training included
Prerequisite courses required

University of West Alabama

Livingston, AL - Public 4-Year - uwa.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of West Alabama offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that stands out for its hybrid format, combining 80% on-campus learning with 20% online coursework. This unique approach allows students to benefit from hands-on clinical experiences while enjoying the flexibility of online studies. The program is meticulously designed to cover critical areas such as mental health and maternal-child nursing, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN and diverse healthcare environments. Spanning 120-124 credit hours, the BSN program welcomes students in both Spring and Fall terms. With financial aid options and expert faculty guidance, it's an excellent choice for aspiring nurses. Entrance exams like ACT or SAT are required for admission.

Hybrid program: 80% on-campus, 20% online.
Prepares for NCLEX-RN licensure.
120-124 credit hours.
Spring and Fall start terms.
Focus on mental health, maternal-child nursing.
Hands-on clinical experiences.
Expert faculty guidance.
Financial aid available.
Diverse healthcare settings preparation.
Leadership in nursing practice.

University of Alabama at Birmingham

Birmingham, AL - Public 4-Year - uab.edu

Bachelor's - Nursing, BSN

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Alabama at Birmingham offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program designed to equip students with the skills for professional nursing practice. This campus-based program emphasizes a blend of academic and clinical training, focusing on anatomy, physiology, and patient care. With a requirement of a 2.75 GPA for both pre-nursing and overall, the program prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam. It's a four-year curriculum that admits students in fall and spring, offering a solid foundation for a nursing career without requiring an ACT or SAT for admission.

Four-year undergraduate curriculum
Eligible for NCLEX-RN exam
Pre-nursing foundation GPA requirement: 2.75
Overall GPA requirement: 2.75
Courses in anatomy, physiology, microbiology
Nutrition course included
Traditional BSN program
Prepares for professional nursing practice
Clinical competence focus
Informed judgment in patient care

Bachelor's - RN to BSN Mobility

Campus Based - Visit Website

For registered nurses aiming to elevate their careers, the University of Alabama at Birmingham provides an RN to BSN Mobility program. This campus-based pathway is tailored for flexibility, allowing RNs to pursue their BSN through a distance-accessible format. The curriculum focuses on leadership, evidence-based practice, and advanced nursing concepts, preparing graduates for higher healthcare roles. Admission necessitates a current RN license and completion of prerequisites, with the program completable in three to five semesters. Financial aid and scholarships are available, making advanced education accessible without the need for an entrance exam.

Distance-accessible format
Flexible 3-5 semester plans
Focus on leadership and evidence-based practice
Requires current RN license
Prerequisite courses needed
Financial aid available
Scholarships for eligible students
Prepares for higher-level healthcare roles
Personalized study plan options
Advanced nursing concepts covered

Show 1 More Programs ˅

The University of Alabama

Tuscaloosa, AL - Public 4-Year - ua.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Alabama's Capstone College of Nursing offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program tailored for freshmen, transfers, and second-degree students. This campus-based program emphasizes a comprehensive curriculum that combines rigorous academic coursework with extensive hands-on clinical training. Students gain invaluable experience through mentorship from dedicated nursing faculty and utilize cutting-edge technology in state-of-the-art facilities. The program is designed to equip graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge for diverse healthcare careers, focusing on both theoretical foundations and practical applications. Admission is competitive, requiring a detailed application process. Notably, the program is military-friendly, supporting veterans and active-duty personnel in their nursing education.

Mentorship by nursing faculty.
State-of-the-art technology.
Hands-on clinical experience.
Strong academic background.
Well-rounded clinical experience.
Access to excellent facilities.
Prepares for diverse careers.
Competitive admissions process.

Auburn University at Montgomery

Montgomery, AL - Public 4-Year - aum.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Auburn University at Montgomery offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that is renowned for its excellence in Alabama, featuring a curriculum that blends academic rigor with practical clinical experiences. The program is designed to equip students with the necessary skills to excel in the NCLEX-RN exam, boasting a 100% first-time pass rate among recent graduates. With a strong emphasis on leadership, communication, and comprehensive patient care, students benefit from simulated interprofessional training at the Warhawk Hospital. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, the program also reports a 98% job placement rate at graduation, preparing graduates for a wide range of nursing careers. Entrance exams such as ACT or SAT are required for admission.

Traditional four-year BSN program
100% NCLEX first-time pass rate
98% job placement at graduation
Hands-on clinical experiences
Simulated interprofessional training
Accredited by CCNE
Prepares for diverse nursing careers
Emphasizes leadership and communication
High demand for graduates
Comprehensive patient care training

*Federal data source: IPEDS 2023, administered by NCES.

Alabama Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees

Are you interested in becoming a registered nurse but not sure where to start? The specific degree that future nurses choose to aim for heavily relies on their specific professional and educational goals. By and large, many nurses choose to go with an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) due to their low cost and fast timeline. Learn the differences between these, and many other types below.

Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs

If you’re looking for the quickest way to get licensed as an RN, an ADN is likely your safest bet at only 2 years of full-time study. Nursing diplomas are a similar option, but these are usually offered at hospitals and nursing schools and can be completed in 1-2 years. If you’re hoping to move on to higher-level degrees, many nurses suggest going with the ADN as they usually require more core classes with transferable credits to accredited schools, while nursing diplomas focus more on professional training. If you’re working as an LPN, you may be interested in leveraging your experience and enrolling in an LPN to RN bridge program, which can result in either an ADN or a BSN.

Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Alabama include:

High School Diploma or GED
Minimum GPA, typically 2.5 or higher
Some programs require scores from the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI Admission Assessment

For further admissions requirements and more information, check out our page on ADN degree programs.

More information on RN diplomas, LPN to RN, and ADN programs:

Program	Estimated Tuition	Estimated Credits	Online Availability
ADN	$6,000 – $15,000	60-72 credits	Limited online courses, primarily on-campus
LPN to RN	$4,000 – $10,000	30-45 credits	Often hybrid; some online courses
RN Diploma	$5,000 – $12,000	40-60 credits	Rarely online; primarily on-campus

ADN, LPN to RN, and nursing diploma programs require hands-on clinical training hours under supervision in order to be eligible for RN licensure. These will need to be completed in person, even if you opt for an online or hybrid program. Not sure if you’re ready for an RN career? Consider an LPN or CNA program in Alabama.

Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN to BSN vs. Accelerated BSN Programs

If you’re planning on eventually moving on to advanced practice, or if you simply want to gain more experience and training, a BSN is a great option. A bachelor’s degree in nursing can also give an edge when it comes to applying for nursing positions in Alabama as many employers prefer them to ADN-educated nurses or LPNs. BSN programs take about four years to complete, and many programs are available online or with hybrid, and self-paced options, meaning you may be able to finish even faster, especially if you take care of bridge programs such as RN to BSN programs or Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing programs.

Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Alabama typically include:

High School Diploma or GED
Minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0
Completion of prerequisite courses

For more information on BSN admissions requirements and more, see our BSN degrees page.

Several alternative pathways are also available to qualified students who want to pursue a BSN. Compare your options below:

Program Type	Length/Credits	Estimated Cost (In-State)	Who It’s For
Traditional BSN	4 years (120-126 credits)	$20,000 – $50,000	First-time college students/career starters
RN to BSN	1-2 years (30-35 credits)	$10,000 – $20,000	Licensed RNs with an ADN
ABSN	12-18 months (50-60 credits)	$25,000 – $40,000	Bachelor's degree holders in another field

RN to BSN

As mentioned, an Alabama RN to BSN is a bridge program that allows you to achieve your BSN degree in a shorter amount of time. While a traditional BSN requires at least 4 years of study, an RN to BSN can allow you to graduate in only 2 years! Of course, this will depend on whether you already have an ADN and whether you are licensed as an RN, both requirements of these types of programs.

Accelerated BSN (ABSN)

If you already have a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing, but you would like to receive a BSN in under four years, Alabama ABSN programs are a viable option. This type of bridge program allows you to complete your BSN degree program in only a year and will build off of your existing education.

Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs

If you’re looking for more than just entry-level nursing education and training and are considering upper-level nursing careers, you’ll need a graduate degree, such as a Master’s Degree in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) to do so. Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), such as nurse practitioners, have competitive salaries and a great deal of independence, but they also require many years of education before accessing these roles. Fortunately, if you already have experience as a nurse, you’re sure to find bridge programs that meet your required graduation timeline.

Read more about advanced practice nursing programs in Alabama here:

See Related Articles

Getting an RN License in Alabama

Arguably the most important part of the process (after graduation from an accredited school) is getting licensed as an RN. The Alabama Nursing Board requires all nurses to apply for licensure and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Upon passing the exam, you’ll be required to pay a fee and take any required continuing education courses.

Requirements for RN Licensure in Alabama

Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
Application to the Alabama Board of Nursing
Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance

Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?

If an RN program isn’t accredited, it’s not going to meet the standards required by the Alabama Nursing Board, which means you won’t be able to be licensed after graduation. RN program accreditation in the US is provided by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). As you research RN programs, check the website or which the prospective school’s nursing program directly to make sure it is accredited by one of these two institutions.

List of Nursing Schools in Alabama

Alabama offers a variety of nursing schools to help you start or advance your career in healthcare. Below is a table listing these schools, where you'll find their locations, key program features, and links to more details. Whether you're looking for hands-on training or flexible schedules, you can explore options that fit your goals. Check out each school's program page to learn more about how they can support your journey into nursing.

Jump to City:

Alexander City, AL

Central Alabama Community College

Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Associate Degree in Nursing.
- Financial aid available.
- Standard admissions application.
- Competitive program cost.

Andalusia, AL

Lurleen B Wallace Community College

Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accredited by ACEN.
- Focuses on critical thinking.
- Prepares for emotional rewards.
- Promotes self-care skills.
- Accredited nursing program.
- Detailed program costs available.
- Financial aid options.
- Admissions packet required.

Athens, AL

Athens State University

Bachelor's - BSN Program
Online Learning - Website
- Online RN-BSN program
- Affordable tuition
- Flexible learning environment
- Leadership and management skills
- Evidence-based practice focus
- Healthcare informatics training
- Ethics in nursing care
- Healthcare policy education

Auburn, AL

Auburn University

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Comprehensive nursing curriculum
- Diverse clinical locations
- Focus on leadership skills
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
- Requires prerequisite courses
- Separate College of Nursing application
- Follows Auburn tuition structure

Bay Minette, AL

Coastal Alabama Community College

Associate - Associate Degree Nursing (RN) Program
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Prepares for RN licensure
- Focus on patient-centered care
- Competitive program costs
- Meets academic standards for admission

Birmingham, AL

Lawson State Community College

Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 72 credit hours.
- Campus-based program.
- High NCLEX-RN pass rates.
- Competitive admission process.
- ACT score of 18 required.
- 2.5 GPA in prerequisites.
- Hands-on learning focus.
- Prepares for immediate employment.

Samford University

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Over 900 clinical hours
- NCLEX-RN pass rates above average
- Low student-to-teacher ratio
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- High employment rates at graduation
- Requires 3.0 GPA for admission
- Hands-on patient care experience
- Located in Birmingham, AL

University of Alabama at Birmingham

Bachelor's - Nursing, BSN
Campus Based - Website
- Four-year undergraduate curriculum
- Eligible for NCLEX-RN exam
- Pre-nursing foundation GPA requirement: 2.75
- Overall GPA requirement: 2.75
- Courses in anatomy, physiology, microbiology
- Nutrition course included
- Traditional BSN program
- Prepares for professional nursing practice
Bachelor's - RN to BSN Mobility
Campus Based - Website
- Distance-accessible format
- Flexible 3-5 semester plans
- Focus on leadership and evidence-based practice
- Requires current RN license
- Prerequisite courses needed
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships for eligible students
- Prepares for higher-level healthcare roles

Boaz, AL

Snead State Community College

Associate - Associate Degree Nursing (RN)
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- High-fidelity simulation labs
- Supportive faculty
- Comprehensive curriculum
- Emphasis on clinical reasoning
- Hands-on practice
- Prepares for nursing career
- Check website for admissions

Dothan, AL

George C Wallace Community College-Dothan

Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited program.
- Five-semester generic track.
- LPN to RN mobility available.
- Diverse healthcare career paths.
- Articulation agreements for BSN/MSN.
- Competitive admission process.
- Affordable tuition options.
- Financial aid available.

Enterprise, AL

Enterprise State Community College

Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 66 credit hours required.
- Campus-based program in Enterprise, AL.
- Accredited by ACEN.
- Prepares students for RN licensure.
- Comprehensive nursing training.
- Career opportunities in healthcare.
- Financial aid available.
- Specific application deadlines.

Hanceville, AL

George C Wallace State Community College-Hanceville

Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- ACEN accredited
- Competitive admission
- Focuses on key courses
- Prepares for licensure exam
- Pathways for LPNs
- State-of-the-art facilities
- Mission promotes excellence