Best Nursing Schools in Iowa
As a Midwestern state committed to advancing nursing education, Iowa is actively supporting students in pursuing registered nursing (RN) degrees to meet the healthcare worker shortage. With an anticipated 12% increase in nursing jobs through 2030, Iowa has expanded educational opportunities to meet this demand. The state encourages nurses to attain a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN) or higher, emphasizing that advanced degrees not only lead to career growth but also boost earning potential in Iowa's evolving healthcare landscape.
2026 Best Nursing Schools in Iowa
Dordt University
Sioux Center, IA - Private 4-year - dordt.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Dordt University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program prepares students for a fulfilling career in nursing, grounded in Christian values. The program combines rigorous academic coursework with hands-on clinical experiences across diverse healthcare settings. Students benefit from a concept-based curriculum, focusing on applying nursing concepts to real-world patient care. With a strong emphasis on servant leadership and ethical practice, graduates are ready to make a difference in hospitals, clinics, and beyond. The program boasts impressive NCLEX pass rates, ensuring students are well-prepared for licensure. Admission requires a GPA of 2.67 and a commitment to Christian discipleship in nursing practice.
- 100% NCLEX pass rate.
- Christian-centered nursing education.
- Hands-on clinical experiences.
- Concept-based curriculum.
- Low instructor-to-student ratio.
- Over 570 clinical hours.
- State-of-the-art simulation labs.
- Diverse healthcare settings.
- Servant leadership focus.
- Ethical practice emphasis.
University of Dubuque
Dubuque, IA - Private 4-year - dbq.edu
Bachelor's - BS: Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Dubuque's Bachelor of Science in Nursing prepares students to become highly skilled, ethical healthcare professionals. The comprehensive program blends rigorous academic training with extensive clinical experiences, featuring 100% NCLEX RN pass rates and a capstone course with 144 hours of precepted internship. Students develop clinical skills through advanced simulation labs and patient care settings, learning to provide collaborative, evidence-based care for diverse populations. Graduates are well-positioned in a growing field with projected job growth and numerous employment opportunities across various healthcare environments.
- 100% NCLEX RN pass rate
- Committed clinical partners
- Extensive lab simulation experiences
- 1:1 precepted internship
- CCNE accredited program
- Active Student Nurses Association
- Multiple clinical settings
- Well-qualified nursing faculty
- Rural and urban clinical exposure
Mount Mercy University
Cedar Rapids, IA - Private 4-year - mtmercy.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Mount Mercy University in Cedar Rapids, IA, offers a hybrid Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program tailored to fit various life stages and goals. With options to graduate in as little as two years, the program accommodates first-time college students, career changers, and practicing nurses. Admission is competitive, with early and standard options available. Early admission requires a high school GPA of 3.5 and an ACT score of 25. The program emphasizes personalized curriculum plans and offers a seamless transition to MSN studies. Competitive tuition and scholarships are available, making this program accessible to many aspiring nurses.
- Hybrid program type
- Graduate in two years
- Competitive admission
- Early admission option
- Seamless MSN transition
- Personalized curriculum plans
- Competitive tuition
- Scholarships available
- For various life stages
- Tailored to individual goals
Kirkwood Community College
Cedar Rapids, IA - Public 2-Year - kirkwood.edu
Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Kirkwood Community College in Cedar Rapids, IA, offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program designed for aspiring registered nurses. This campus-based program combines hands-on clinical experience with comprehensive coursework, covering medical, surgical, geriatric, and pediatric care. With an estimated cost of $29,572.10, financial aid options like scholarships and grants are available. Admission requires placement exams and a Certified Nursing Assistant certificate. The program prepares students for the NCLEX-RN, boasting a 96% pass rate over four years.
- Campus-based program.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- 96% NCLEX-RN pass rate.
- Estimated cost $29,572.10.
- Financial aid available.
- Requires CNA certificate.
- Prepares for RN licensure.
- Comprehensive coursework.
- Scholarships for nursing students.
- Multiple clinical modalities.
University of Iowa
Iowa City, IA - Public 4-Year - uiowa.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Iowa's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program stands out for its excellence, preparing students for licensure and professional nursing practice. With world-renowned faculty and exceptional clinical experiences, this full-time, on-campus program is designed for those aiming to start their nursing career. It's a solid choice for students seeking a comprehensive foundation in nursing, backed by a prestigious institution known for advancing the profession.
- Full-time, on-campus program.
- Prepares for RN licensure.
- Exceptional clinical experiences.
- Taught by world-renowned faculty.
- National reputation for excellence.
Iowa Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
If you are interested in a registered nursing career, Iowa offers several entry-level degree points to help you enter the world of nursing. Most students opt to start with an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing. Read on to learn more about each degree level to see if it's the right fit for you.
Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs
The ADN is the quickest degree pathway to registered nursing practice in Iowa, taking just 2 years to complete. Students may also opt for an RN diploma, typically offered through specialty nursing schools and hospitals, taking 1-2 years to complete. The difference between an ADN and an RN diploma is that the ADN includes other core college courses, while the diploma is focused strictly on basic nursing education. A good option for current Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) is the LPN to RN bridge program, which can result in either an ADN or a BSN. These affordable pathways lead to entry-level careers in registered nursing, but remember to choose a properly accredited program.
Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Iowa 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 Iowa.
Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs
The traditional four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is considered the gold standard of nursing degrees. It is commonly offered online, on-campus, and in hybrid formats at colleges and universities across Iowa. Many healthcare employers in the state prefer BSN-educated nurses for entry-level RN employment. With both full-time and part-time options available, BSN programs consist of core education courses and nursing-specific courses. Like other RN programs, required clinical training hours will need to be completed in person, even if you opt for an online or hybrid BSN program.
Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Iowa 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 | Length | Estimated Tuition | Entrance Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional BSN | 4 years (120-126 credits) | $20,000 – $50,000 | First-time college students |
| 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 | Non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders |
RN to BSN
For RN bridge programs visit:
Those who already have an ADN or nursing diploma and want to advance to a bachelor's degree may be interested in an Iowa RN to BSN bridge pathway. These programs can be taken full-time or part-time, allowing nurses to continue working if they wish, and are available both on-campus and online. Clinical hours, however, must be completed in person.
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
This program is designed for students who already hold a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing subject. An ideal way to switch careers, accelerated BSN programs are intensive, and can be completed in as little as 12 months of full-time study. Iowa ABSN programs can be completed online, but some campus visits may be required, and students will still need to complete their clinical hours in person.
Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
For Iowans looking to advance their nursing education into the graduate realm, there are also many options. Whether you are looking for a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program, a bridge program to enter advanced practice, or even a doctorate degree such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), there's a program for you. Remember most of these programs require that you already hold a minimum of a BSN or MSN, hold an active and unencumbered RN license, and meet all the entry requirements specific to each program.
Earning a graduate-level degree in nursing opens the door to numerous Advanced Practice Registered Nursing (APRN) roles, leadership roles, and even careers in academia or research. Read more about APRN pathways in Iowa:
- Iowa Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Iowa MSN Program
- Iowa RN to MSN Programs
- Iowa Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
- Iowa DNP Programs
Getting an RN License in Iowa
In Iowa, the RN licensing process begins with completing an accredited nursing program (see below) and passing the NCLEX-RN exam, a nationally standardized test assessing critical entry-level nursing skills. After passing the NCLEX-RN, candidates must apply for licensure with the Iowa Board of Nursing and meet continuing education (CE) requirements for renewal.
Requirements for RN Licensure in Iowa
- Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
- Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
- Application to the Iowa Board of Nursing
- Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance
Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?
RN program accreditation is a formal review process that ensures a nursing school or program meets established quality standards. In the United States, two primary organizations accredit nursing programs: the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). In Iowa, nursing programs commonly seek accreditation from one or both of these agencies to demonstrate that their education standards meet national benchmarks. It is always recommended for students to choose an accredited RN program at any level to ensure they will be eligible for licensure, further education (if desired), and gainful employment.
Cities With Nursing Programs in Iowa
List of Nursing Schools in Iowa
Ames, IA
Iowa State University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning format
- Two semesters completion
- Focus on research and leadership
- ACEN accredited
- Minimum 2.5 GPA required
- RN licensure prerequisite
- Flexible for working nurses
- Prepares for diverse healthcare roles
Cedar Falls, IA
University of Northern Iowa
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 412.5 clinical training hours
- 150-hour clinical residency
- Innovative simulation facilities
- Practice-based learning approach
- Multiple clinical care settings
- Hands-on skills laboratory
- Standardized patient examinations
- Competency-based education
Cedar Rapids, IA
Coe College
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 1:1 clinical practice
- Small class sizes
- Doctoral degree faculty
- Diverse clinical experiences
- ATI review course
- High NCLEX pass rates
- Interactive classrooms
- Study abroad opportunities
Kirkwood Community College
- Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- 96% NCLEX-RN pass rate.
- Estimated cost $29,572.10.
- Financial aid available.
- Requires CNA certificate.
- Prepares for RN licensure.
- Comprehensive coursework.
Mount Mercy University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program type
- Graduate in two years
- Competitive admission
- Early admission option
- Seamless MSN transition
- Personalized curriculum plans
- Competitive tuition
- Scholarships available
Council Bluffs, IA
Iowa Western Community College
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Associate of Applied Science degree
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Full-time and part-time options
- Evening program available
- High job placement rates
- Transfer opportunities to four-year schools
- Clinical study groups
Creston, IA
Southwestern Community College
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- High NCLEX pass rates
- Combines classroom and clinical learning
- Focus on nursing process
- Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship eligible
- Requires PN licensure for admission
- Prepares for LPN and RN roles
- Affordable path to nursing career
Davenport, IA
Eastern Iowa Community College District
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accredited by Iowa Board of Nursing.
- Prepares for NCLEX exam.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Practical Nursing Diploma option.
- Associate Degree Nursing option.
- Financial aid available.
- Iowa's Last-Dollar Scholarship eligible.
- Strong clinical component.
St. Ambrose University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 124 credits total
- On campus or online
- 33 gen ed credits
- 64 nursing credits
- 27 elective credits
- Group clinicals and simulations
- One-on-one preceptorship
- Capstone project
- Bachelor's - LPN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Online LPN to BSN program
- Flexible for working professionals
- Approved in select states
- Requires active LPN license
- Rolling admissions until cohort filled
- Priority deadlines: Dec 1, Jul 1
- Clinical placements in approved states
- Comprehensive nursing education
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Online RN to BSN program
- Flexible for working professionals
- Approved in select states
- Rolling admissions
- Priority deadlines available
- Designed for RN career advancement
- Balances theory and practice
- Leadership preparation focus
Des Moines, IA
Drake University
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Prepares for NCLEX.
- Pending ACEN accreditation.
- Iowa Board of Nursing approved.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Experienced faculty.
- Fast track to nursing.
- Focus on compassionate care.
Grand View University
- Bachelor's - Nursing BSN
Campus Based - Website
- State-of-the-art simulation center
- Small class sizes
- Focus on caring ethic
- Qualifies for RN licensure exam
- Minimum GPA 3.0 required
- ATI TEAS test proficiency needed
- Completion of specific courses required
- Develops health care leaders
Mercy College of Health Sciences
- Associate - Associate of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Two-year program duration.
- Flexible evening and weekend classes.
- 100% job placement rate.
- Median wage $75,330.
- Accredited by ACEN.
- Approved by Iowa Board of Nursing.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation.
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- NCLEX pass rate 86.7%
- 100% job placement rate
- 67 major credits
- Clinical hours start semester 1
- LPNs get four credits
- GPA 2.7 required
- ATI TEAS test 63% minimum
- Three years to complete
Dubuque, IA
Clarke University
- Bachelor's - Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Holistic nursing approach
- State-of-the-art simulation lab
- Cadaver lab access
- Small clinical groups
- High job placement rates
- NCLEX-RN preparation
- Community health focus
- Childbearing families care
Loras College
- Bachelor's - 3+1 Nursing BA/BS+BSN
Campus Based - Website
- Earn two degrees in four years.
- Accelerated BSN pathway.
- All coursework on Loras campus.
- 3.0 GPA prerequisite requirement.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- 90 college credits required.
- Partnership with Mercy College.
- No need to leave Dubuque area.
University of Dubuque
- Bachelor's - BS: Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 100% NCLEX RN pass rate
- Committed clinical partners
- Extensive lab simulation experiences
- 1:1 precepted internship
- CCNE accredited program
- Active Student Nurses Association
- Multiple clinical settings
- Well-qualified nursing faculty
Fort Dodge, IA
Iowa Central Community College
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- 720 clinical hours
- Spring and fall starts
- Scholarships available
- Meets Iowa core standards
- Practical Nursing option
- Diverse healthcare settings
- Affordable education path
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Concentration: Hospital - Campus Based - Website
- 720 clinical hours
- Campus-based program
- Practical Nursing diploma option
- Scholarships available
- Hospital concentration
- Requires Iowa Central acceptance
- Hands-on healthcare experience
- Affordable nursing path
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Concentration: Pediatric - Campus Based - Website
- Pediatric concentration available.
- 720 clinical hours required.
- Scholarship opportunities offered.
- Campus-based program.
- Prepares for RN licensure.
- Diverse healthcare settings.
- Must apply to college first.
- Focus on pediatric nursing.
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Concentration: Physician - Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- 720 clinical hours
- Physician concentration
- Scholarships available
- Spring and fall starts
- RN career pathway
- Diverse healthcare settings
- Admission to college first
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Concentration: Rehabilitation - Campus Based - Website
- Focus on Rehabilitation
- 720 clinical hours
- Scholarships available
- Accepts LPNs for advanced standing
- Combines classroom and clinical work
- Prepares for RN licensure
- Multiple healthcare settings
- Requires college acceptance first
Iowa City, IA
University of Iowa
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Full-time, on-campus program.
- Prepares for RN licensure.
- Exceptional clinical experiences.
- Taught by world-renowned faculty.
- National reputation for excellence.
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Online program flexibility.
- Total tuition $17,088.
- RN license required.
- Prerequisite courses needed.
- Fall and spring starts.
- Enhances patient care skills.
- Prepares for leadership roles.
- Accessible to working nurses.
Iowa Falls, IA
Ellsworth Community College
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 2-year AAS degree.
- Campus-based program.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Accredited by Iowa Board.
- Focus on patient care.
- Prepares for RN licensure.
- Diverse clinical settings.
- Strong science foundation.
Marshalltown, IA
Marshalltown Community College
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing (ADN)
Campus Based - Website
- Accredited by Iowa Board of Nursing.
- Campus-based program.
- Strong science foundation required.
- Hands-on patient care training.
- Diverse clinical settings experience.
- Prepares for RN licensure.
- Average salary $62,571 for graduates.
- Meets licensure in IA and IL.
Orange City, IA
Northwestern College
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 700+ clinical hours
- 100% board pass rate
- Accredited by CCNE
- Early acceptance available
- Holistic health focus
- Diverse clinical settings
- Freshman seminar included
- Senior capstone project
Oskaloosa, IA
William Penn University
- Bachelor's - 4-Year Pre-licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 4-year BSN program
- Campus-based learning
- TEAS score requirement: 60
- CNA certification required
- Cumulative GPA: 2.75
- Early admission option
- ACT score: 23 for early admission
- High school GPA: 3.0 for early admission
Sheldon, IA
Northwest Iowa Community College
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- One-year program duration.
- Campus-based with online general education.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- 100% job placement rate.
- Includes clinical preceptorship.
- Financial aid available.
- Future Ready Iowa Scholarship eligible.
- Requires current LPN licensure.
Sioux Center, IA
Dordt University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 100% NCLEX pass rate.
- Christian-centered nursing education.
- Hands-on clinical experiences.
- Concept-based curriculum.
- Low instructor-to-student ratio.
- Over 570 clinical hours.
- State-of-the-art simulation labs.
- Diverse healthcare settings.
Sioux City, IA
Morningside University
- Bachelor's - Nursing (BSN)
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- High NCLEX pass rate
- State-of-the-art simulation center
- Diverse clinical experiences
- Requires 2.75 GPA for admission
- Background check required
- Comprehensive curriculum
- Hands-on learning approach
Storm Lake, IA
Buena Vista University
- Bachelor's - 3+1 Nursing BA/BS+BSN Program
Campus Based - Website
- Accelerated 4-year BSN pathway
- Campus-based clinical training
- Two degrees upon completion
- Rigorous science prerequisites
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
Waterloo, IA
Hawkeye Community College
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 2-year program length
- 480 clinical hours
- 208 lab hours
- 95% NCLEX pass rate
- State-of-the-art simulation center
- Future Ready Iowa Scholarship eligible
- Daytime classes
- Face-to-face course format
West Burlington, IA
Southeastern Community College
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing - AAS
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based learning
- Focus on patient care
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Financial aid options
- High school diploma required
- Prepares for healthcare careers
- Combines theory and practice
- Fast track to nursing
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