Best Nursing Schools in Kansas

Bethel College-North Newton stands out with its Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, achieving a remarkable 100% NCLEX first-time pass rate in both 2022 and 2023. This campus-based program is designed to equip students with a solid foundation in nursing through a curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, evidence-based practice, and leadership skills. Unique to Bethel College is its faith-based learning approach, integrating patient-centered care with service and research opportunities. The program boasts a low faculty-student ratio, simulation training, and the use of virtual reality in education, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience. Admission is competitive, with an early acceptance option for high-achieving students, and requires prerequisite courses. Accredited by CCNE, the program also offers scholarship opportunities and has an articulation agreement with EMU for those interested in pursuing an online MSN.

• 100% NCLEX pass rate
• Faith-based learning
• Hands-on clinical experience
• Competitive admissions
• Early acceptance option
• Leadership development
• Patient-centered curriculum
• Service opportunities
• Research experience
• Low faculty-student ratio

Coffeyville Community College stands out in Kansas for its Associate Degree Nurse (ADN) program, which has achieved a remarkable 100% NCLEX pass rate for both PN and ADN tracks. This two-year, campus-based program is designed to equip students with both practical skills and theoretical knowledge, facilitating a smooth transition from Practical Nurse to Associate Degree Nurse. Prospective students must have a Certified Nurse Aide certificate for the PN portion and a Kansas PN license for the ADN. The program not only prepares graduates for immediate entry into the nursing profession but also offers pathways to BSN programs for further career advancement. With financial aid and scholarships available, Coffeyville Community College makes nursing education accessible to a wide range of students.

• 100% NCLEX pass rate
• Two-year program duration
• Campus-based learning
• Requires Certified Nurse Aide certificate
• Pathways to BSN programs
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships offered
• High job placement rate
• Practical and theoretical focus
• Kansas State Board approved

The University of Saint Mary's Traditional BSN program stands out in Kansas for its comprehensive approach to nursing education. Accredited by the CCNE, this program not only prepares students for the NCLEX-RN with a remarkable 97% first-time pass rate but also emphasizes leadership and community service in nursing. With a curriculum that includes 57 nursing credits and hands-on clinical rotations, students are well-prepared for the demands of the nursing profession. Admission requires a 3.5 GPA and either ACT scores or an essay for freshmen, making it accessible yet competitive. Scholarships up to $17,500 are available for transfer students, highlighting the university's commitment to supporting aspiring nurses.

• CCNE-accredited program.
• 97% NCLEX pass rate.
• Direct entry for freshmen.
• Scholarships up to $17,500.
• 120 total credits.
• 57 nursing credits.
• Clinical rotations included.
• Expert nursing faculty.
• Top Kansas nursing program.
• Hands-on learning experience.

For those looking to transition into nursing quickly, the University of Saint Mary offers an Accelerated BSN program that compresses two years of nursing education into just 12 months. This CCNE-accredited program is tailored for individuals with a bachelor's degree or significant college credit, providing a fast-track to nursing licensure and the NCLEX-RN exam. The campus-based format ensures students receive a hands-on learning experience, preparing them for the generalized nursing field. While specific admission requirements and costs are available upon inquiry, the program's accelerated nature and focus on practical skills make it an excellent choice for career changers eager to enter the healthcare sector.

• CCNE-accredited program.
• 12-month accelerated format.
• Campus-based learning.
• Prepares for NCLEX exam.
• For bachelor's degree holders.

Pittsburg State University offers a Pre-Licensure BSN program that stands out for its commitment to preparing students for the NCLEX-RN examination through a blend of rigorous academic coursework and extensive hands-on clinical training. Located on campus, this program boasts a high retention rate and a supportive community, ensuring students are well-equipped for the challenges of the nursing profession. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, the curriculum is comprehensive, covering all necessary aspects of nursing education. A unique feature is the simulation hospital, providing students with real-world clinical experience in a safe environment. Admission requires a university application, transcript submission, and a separate BSN program application. This program is ideal for those seeking a dynamic and immersive nursing education.

• Campus-based program
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN
• High retention rate
• Accredited curriculum
• Hands-on clinical training
• Simulation hospital experience
• Supportive student community
• Comprehensive nursing education
• Experienced faculty
• Dynamic coursework blend

Emporia State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program designed to equip students with the skills needed for a successful healthcare career. With an impressive 93% NCLEX-RN pass rate, well above the national average, the program stands out for its quality education. The curriculum is enriched with hands-on learning experiences in a state-of-the-art 32,000-square-foot Nursing + Student Wellness Center, featuring advanced simulation labs. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention, while nearby clinical sites provide practical experience. Accredited by the ACEN, the program also offers scholarships, making it an excellent choice for aspiring nurses. Entrance exams such as ACT or SAT are required for admission.

• ACEN accredited program
• 93% NCLEX-RN pass rate
• New 32,000-square-foot facility
• Hands-on learning focus
• Small class sizes
• State-of-the-art simulation labs
• Clinical sites nearby
• Scholarships available
• Prepares for healthcare career
• Above national average pass rate

The University of Kansas School of Nursing's Community College Nursing Partnership (CCNP) is a unique hybrid program that allows students to earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) at a partner community college while completing BSN courses online through KU. This program is ideal for those looking to blend practical nursing skills with advanced education, focusing on leadership and evidence-based practice. With a requirement of 59-62 prerequisite credit hours and a minimum GPA of 2.50, it prepares students for a variety of clinical settings. The program is military-friendly and emphasizes preparing graduates for immediate healthcare roles and further educational pursuits. Admission deadlines are July 1 and December 1.

• Hybrid program format.
• Requires 59-62 prerequisite hours.
• Minimum 2.50 GPA for admission.
• Prepares for diverse clinical settings.
• Emphasizes leadership in nursing.
• Online BSN courses available.
• Collaboration with community colleges.
• Focus on evidence-based practice.
• Admission deadlines: July 1, December 1.
• Prepares for further education opportunities.

Fort Hays State University's On-Campus Pre-Licensure BSN Program stands out with a 95% NCLEX pass rate, showcasing its effectiveness in preparing students for the nursing profession. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, this program emphasizes practical skills through a simulated hospital environment equipped with the latest technology. Prospective students must meet a 3.0 GPA requirement and complete prerequisite courses for admission. The curriculum is designed to cover all aspects of nursing, including extensive clinical practice, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for various nursing roles. Financial aid options are available to help students manage the costs of their education.

• 95% NCLEX pass rate.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• Simulated hospital setting.
• Competitive admission.
• 3.0 GPA required.
• Hands-on clinical practice.
• Comprehensive nursing curriculum.
• Financial aid available.

Washburn University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, located in Topeka, KS, offers a comprehensive education with a focus on obstetrics, pediatrics, and emergency care. The program boasts a 100% placement rate, preparing students for the NCLEX exam through hands-on learning in labs, simulation, and clinical experiences. With state-of-the-art technology in the Regional Simulation Center and personalized faculty attention, students are well-equipped for a successful nursing career. Prerequisites include 30 hours of coursework with a 2.7 GPA. Financial aid and scholarships are available, making this program accessible to a wide range of aspiring nurses.

• 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

Specializing in Pediatrics, Washburn University's BSN program provides students with the skills to care for children in various healthcare settings. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through labs, simulation, and clinical experiences, supported by innovative technology and personalized professor attention. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam, with a prerequisite of a 2.7 GPA in coursework. Financial aid and scholarships are available, offering an accessible path to a rewarding career in pediatric nursing.

• 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

Washburn University offers a BSN program with a concentration in the Emergency Department, designed to prepare students for the fast-paced environment of emergency care. The program combines practical learning in labs and simulations with clinical experiences, accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Admission requires 30 hours of prerequisite coursework with a 2.7 GPA. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam, with financial aid and scholarships available to assist with program costs.

• 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

Neosho County Community College provides a hybrid Associate of Applied Science in Nursing program, designed to equip students for success on both the NCLEX-PN and RN exams. This program, available at campuses in Chanute and Ottawa, Kansas, offers a comprehensive curriculum over 2.5 years, with an accelerated 1-year option for LPNs. Prospective students must attend an informational meeting, complete an application to NCCC, and follow a detailed admission checklist. The program emphasizes practical experience through practicums and covers essential subjects such as anatomy, psychology, and microbiology, including a required lab. Notably, LPNs seeking to advance to RN status can complete Level II courses in a hybrid format, blending online and in-person learning. Admission prerequisites include LPN licensure for Level II candidates, ensuring a focused and prepared student body.

• Hybrid program format.
• Prepares for NCLEX-PN and RN.
• Campuses in Chanute and Ottawa.
• 2.5 years to completion.
• 1 year for LPNs.
• Requires LPN licensure for Level II.
• Includes practicum experiences.
• Courses in anatomy and psychology.
• Microbiology lab required.
• Admission info meeting mandatory.