Best Nursing Schools in Iowa

2026 Best Nursing Schools in Iowa

Choosing the right nursing school is crucial for aspiring healthcare professionals. Registerednursing.org provides comprehensive rankings of the Best Nursing Schools in Iowa, focusing exclusively on NCLEX pass rates to help students make informed decisions. Our rankings prioritize programs with consistently high NCLEX performance, offering a reliable guide for nursing education selection. https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/

BSN vs ADN Pass Rate Performance

Iowa's nursing programs demonstrate strong performance across different degree types. BSN programs show a slight edge in pass rates compared to ADN programs.

• BSN programs achieved a 93.41% average pass rate with 895 total students
• ADN programs achieved a 92.18% average pass rate with 1,125 total students
• MSN programs showed a 93.33% pass rate with minimal enrollment of 15 students

Top Performing Nursing Schools

Several Iowa nursing programs demonstrated exceptional NCLEX performance with perfect pass rates.

• Indian Hills Community College: 100% pass rate, 20 students
• North Iowa Area Community College: 100% pass rate, 35 students
• Capri College-Cedar Rapids: 100% pass rate, 51 students

Geographic Pass Rate Trends

Iowa's major cities show varied nursing program performance across different metropolitan areas.

• Cedar Rapids leads with an impressive 97.8% pass rate
• Ankeny follows closely with a 96.39% pass rate
• Des Moines demonstrates solid performance at 90.25% pass rate

Program Size Impact on Pass Rates

Nursing program size appears to correlate with NCLEX success rates in Iowa.

• Large programs (>100 students): 94.22% average pass rate
• Small programs (<50 students): 91.96% average pass rate
• Medium programs (50-100 students): 90.63% average pass rate

#1

Dordt University

Sioux Center, IA - Private 4-year - dordt.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Dordt University's BSN program offers a comprehensive nursing education rooted in Christian values, uniquely blending academic excellence with spiritual development. Students engage in an innovative concept-based curriculum featuring over 570 clinical hours across diverse healthcare environments. The program boasts an exceptional 100% NCLEX pass rate, demonstrating strong student preparedness for professional nursing practice. With state-of-the-art simulation labs and a low instructor-to-student ratio, students receive personalized training in acute care, chronic illness management, and community health. Admission requires a 2.67 GPA and a commitment to servant leadership. The curriculum emphasizes ethical practice, professional development, and integrating faith with healthcare, positioning graduates for versatile career opportunities in modern medical settings.

• 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.

#2

University of Dubuque

Dubuque, IA - Private 4-year - dbq.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Dubuque's Bachelor of Science in Nursing offers an exceptional pathway to becoming a skilled registered nurse. With a remarkable 100% NCLEX RN pass rate, the program provides comprehensive academic preparation and extensive clinical training. Students benefit from advanced simulation labs, a 144-hour precepted internship, and exposure to diverse healthcare environments. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based care and collaborative practice across rural and urban clinical settings. Standardized testing is not required for program admission. Accredited by CCNE, the program cultivates ethical healthcare professionals through rigorous academic training and hands-on experiences, positioning graduates for successful careers in a growing nursing field.

• 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

#3

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's hybrid BSN program delivers a comprehensive nursing education with exceptional flexibility, boasting an impressive 98.48% NCLEX pass rate with 66 students tested in 2024. Students can complete their degree in as little as two years, accommodating diverse learner backgrounds including first-time college students and career changers. The program features competitive admission standards, requiring a 3.5 high school GPA and 25 ACT score for early admission. With a personalized curriculum approach, students benefit from tailored learning plans and a seamless pathway to potential MSN studies. The program's hybrid format allows students to balance academic pursuits with personal and professional commitments, making nursing education more accessible. Scholarships and competitive tuition further enhance the program's appeal for 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

#4

Kirkwood Community College

Cedar Rapids, IA - Public 2-Year - kirkwood.edu

Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Kirkwood Community College's Associate Degree in Nursing program provides a robust pathway to registered nursing through comprehensive clinical training in Cedar Rapids. With an exceptional 97.83% NCLEX pass rate based on 138 students tested in 2024, the program offers extensive hands-on experience across medical, surgical, pediatric, and geriatric care domains. Prospective students must hold a Certified Nursing Assistant certificate and complete placement exams for admission. The campus-based curriculum emphasizes practical skills development, preparing students for diverse healthcare environments. Financial assistance opportunities, including scholarships and grants, help make nursing education accessible. Clinical rotations and simulation labs ensure graduates are well-equipped for professional nursing challenges and NCLEX-RN licensure.

• 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.

#5

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 BSN program offers an exceptional nursing education pathway, boasting an impressive 96.18% NCLEX pass rate with 157 students successfully completing the program. Located in Iowa City, this full-time campus program requires standard entrance exams and provides comprehensive preparation for nursing licensure. Students benefit from world-renowned faculty, robust clinical experiences, and a nationally recognized curriculum designed to cultivate advanced nursing skills. The program's military-friendly status and on-campus hospital facilities enhance practical learning opportunities, making it a top choice for aspiring registered nurses seeking a rigorous and supportive educational environment.

• Full-time, on-campus program.
• Prepares for RN licensure.
• Exceptional clinical experiences.
• Taught by world-renowned faculty.
• National reputation for excellence.

*Based on data from: IPEDS 2024, provided by the National Center for Education Statistics.

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:

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:

RN to BSN

For RN bridge programs visit:

• RN to BSN Programs in Iowa
• RN to MSN Programs in Iowa

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

• Des Moines Nursing Schools

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