As you may know, the United States is facing a rapidly growing nursing shortage. This shortage has presented challenges for the healthcare field, but it also creates a promising opportunity for individuals in Kentucky who are interested in pursuing a nursing career. Kentucky, in particular, is projected to experience a projected 9% growth in nursing positions over the next decade. If you're wondering how to begin this rewarding journey, explore the sections below for more information.

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Cities in Kentucky

Best RN Programs in Kentucky

Selecting the best nursing school in Kentucky can be difficult. To make the process easier first look for a school that supports students towards licensure and beyond. A great way to measure this is through NCLEX-RN "pass rates." We have ranked the top 20 nursing schools in Kentucky by analyzing current and historical NCLEX-RN "pass rates", meaning the percentage of graduates who pass the exam, out of the 49 RN programs in the state. Programs reviewed include schools that offer an Associate in Nursing (ADN/ASN), BSN, or Direct-Entry MSN Degree.

For more information on our top nursing school rankings, see our Methodology Page (https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/).

1.

Score: 100.00

Located in beautiful Glasgow, Kentucky, Southcentral Kentucky Community & Technical College strives to meet the demand of the nursing profession by providing more highly qualified graduates to the workforce. They offer an Academic Career Mobility (RN) degree where students take courses in Human Anatomy & Physiology, Nursing Care, and more. SKYCTC nurses are an excellent addition to the healthcare team.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (270) 651-5673
2.

Score: 99.19

Southcentral Kentucky Community & Technical College's Bowling Green campus offers a 65 total-credit Academic Career Mobility (RN) degree program. The pathway includes a curriculum that spans general education and specialty nursing courses, with courses in writing, math, and nursing care.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (270) 901-1000
3.

100 Louie B Nunn Dr, Highland Heights, KY 41099

Score: 96.67

Northern Kentucky University's Highland Heights campus is where nursing students can obtain a highly sought after BSN degree. With several pathways, including a traditional 4-year BSN and an Accelerated BSN option, students are prepared to provide quality patient care in a variety of settings. Experiential learning is enhanced through NKU's healthcare simulation center.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (859) 572-5220
4.

315 College of Nursing Building - 751 Rose Street, Lexington, KY 40506

Score: 96.49

In the heart of Lexington, the University of Kentucky is home to a widely acclaimed nursing department. Whether they choose the traditional BSN, Accelerated BSN, or RN to BSN bridge program, nursing students are prepared through knowledge-based nursing practice with an emphasis on clear and effective communication. With a 1-to-8 faculty to student ratio for undergrad clinical groups, enrollees get the benefit of small class sizes and more personal attention.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (859) 323-5108
5.

4800 New Hartford Rd, Owensboro, KY 42303

Score: 94.02

Owensboro Community and Technical College shows students and professionals that nursing is one of the most necessary and vital professions in today's workforce. OCTC's ADN program utilizes numerous learning methods, including lectures, live video streaming, simulation labs, and more to ensure student success. Students are accepted into the program annually in the Fall semester.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (270) 686-4400
6.

Score: 93.99

The Licking Valley campus of Maysville Community & Technical College offers an exceptional associate's degree (ADN) pathway to registered nursing. The 64 total-credit program combines general education and nursing courses to prepare students for gainful RN employment. Required courses include Medical/Surgical Nursing, Maternal Newborn Nursing, Behavioral Health Nursing, and more.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (859) 234-8626
7.

512 E Stephens St, Midway, KY 40347

Score: 93.97

Midway University is home to a renowned ADN program for entry into registered nursing practice. The program's dual focus revolves around both classroom theory as well as supervised clinical experiences. With a 17:1 student to faculty ratio, personal attention and student support is at the forefront of the program.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing, BSN
  • Phone: (800) 952-4122
8.

1000 Breckenridge St, Owensboro, KY 42303

Score: 93.18

The BSN offering through the University of Louisville's School of Nursing in Owensboro is a dynamic program that's both theoretical and practical in nature. The program strives to address the complex healthcare needs of diverse populations through education, research, scholarship and service. Graduates are able to demonstrate excellence in nursing practice and leadership, are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam, and have a solid educational foundation on which they can continue on to master's programs and beyond.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (270) 688-1051
9.

200 W Broadway, Louisville, KY 40202

Score: 93.11

Jefferson Community & Technical College's downtown Louisville campus offers a popular ADN pathway for prospective nurses. Students can complete the degree in just 4 semesters, including general ed and hands-on practice experience.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (502) 213-5333
10.

1755 U.S. 68, Maysville, KY 41056

Score: 92.67

Maysville Community & Technical College is known for leading nursing students to highly successful interdisciplinary collaboration within the healthcare team. Located on the northern state line, Maysville nursing graduates are an important part of many communities.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (606) 759-7141
11.

1375 Chestnut St, Murray, KY 42071

Score: 92.11

Murray State University provides several nursing pathways to students, including an excellent traditional 4-year BSN program. Clinical experiences take place across the state and students can even complete a pediatric rotation at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (800) 272-4678
12.

101 Chestnut St, Berea, KY 40403

Score: 92.08

Berea College climbs to the top of the list in Kentucky with its excellent BSN program offering. Enrolled students get the benefits of two nursing simulation labs, as well as the guidance and expertise of experienced faculty. The curriculum includes required courses such as Pharmacology, Pediatric Nursing, Research in Nursing, and many more, as well as collateral courses in Microbiology, General Psychology, and others.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (859) 985-3000
13.

210 Lindsey Wilson St, Columbia, KY 42728

Score: 91.79

Columbia's Lindsey Wilson College offers a pre-licensure BSN program designed to train the next generation of registered nurses. The curriculum includes courses such as Nursing Research, Adult Health Nursing, and Foundations of Professional Practice to give students the knowledge and skills needed to become successful RNs.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (270) 384-2126
14.

521 Lancaster Ave, Richmond, KY 40475

Score: 89.96

Eastern Kentucky University is located just outside of Lexington, Kentucky, offering students numerous BSN degree options to meet their goals. With a traditional BSN option, a 2nd degree BSN option, and an RN to BSN bridge pathway, students are able to choose the perfect program. These programs emphasize patient-centered care, utilizing small clinical groups and caring faculty to help students succeed.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (859) 622-1000
15.

720 North Dr, Hopkinsville, KY 42241

Score: 89.93

Hopkinsville Community College takes pride in doing its part to meet the need for healthcare professionals in the state of Kentucky through it's 2-year ADN program. With a curriculum that includes courses in pediatrics, medical-surgical, and other specialized nursing areas, HCC students are well prepared to meet the demands of the NCLEX-RN and the professional calling that follows.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (270) 707-3700
16.

4810 Alben Barkley Dr, Paducah, KY 42001

Score: 89.43

West Kentucky Community and Technical College is known to mold nursing graduates toward an innovative and effective model of patient advocacy, with a focus on health teaching and individual counseling for patients who are ill, injured or infirm.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (270) 554-9200
17.

150 University Blvd, Morehead, KY 40351

Score: 88.72

Morehead State University offers several pathways to registered nurse licensure, including an ADN, a pre-licensure BSN, and more. Students enrolled in these selective programs are taught through classroom lectures as well as state-of-the-art simulation labs which house computerized mannequins for a real-world experience.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing, BSN
  • Phone: (606) 783-2221
18.

1031 Zorn Ave, Louisville, KY 40207

Score: 88.59

Galen College of Nursing's Louisville campus offers a 3-year, 36-month full-time BSN program for motivated students. With no pre-requisites and 4 start times per year, prospective students are able to dive into their studies sooner. The curriculum includes courses in Fundamentals of Nutrition, Communication and Teamwork, and much more.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (502) 410-6200
19.

100 University Dr, London, KY 40741

Score: 88.55

Somerset Community College's Laurel Campus in London is serving the community by preparing and training future RNs through its ADN degree program. The curriculum is delivered in a day-time format, consisting of general ed and nursing courses in both classroom and clinical environments. Laurel Campus ADN students are admitted in the spring semester each year.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (606) 877-1421
20.

1500 Bypass North, US 127, Lawrenceburg, KY 40342

Score: 88.26

Bluegrass Community and Technical College - Lawrenceburg makes rigorous study accessible to students in outlying communities through their various campuses. Faculty leads pre-licensure nurses through the model of observation, assessment, and nurse diagnosis to improve patient outcomes.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (859) 246-6470

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

If you’re set on a career as an RN, there are three options for getting licensed — an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Below are the subtle differences that set them apart.

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

In Kentucky, one of the quickest paths to becoming a registered nurse is through an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), which usually takes about two years to complete. Another option is the RN diploma, offered by select nursing schools or hospitals, which can often be finished in 1-2 years and focuses on essential nursing skills. Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) in Kentucky also have the option to advance through an LPN to RN bridge program, allowing them to earn either an ADN or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). These affordable pathways prepare students for entry-level nursing roles, but it's crucial to select an accredited program to ensure your degree is valid and widely accepted.

Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Kentucky 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:

ProgramEstimated TuitionEstimated CreditsOnline Availability
ADN$6,000 – $15,00060-72 creditsLimited online courses, primarily on-campus
LPN to RN$4,000 – $10,00030-45 creditsOften hybrid; some online courses
RN Diploma$5,000 – $12,00040-60 creditsRarely 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 Kentucky.

Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs

In addition to an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or nursing diploma, many students choose to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). These four-year degrees are ideal for aspiring career nurses who seek comprehensive training and want to stand out to potential employers—without the commitment of a graduate degree. Beyond the traditional four-year route, there are also flexible options like the RN to BSN pathway and Accelerated BSN programs, which allow students to achieve a BSN in less time.

Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Kentucky 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:

ProgramLengthEstimated TuitionEntrance Level
Traditional BSN4 years (120-126 credits)$20,000 – $50,000First-time college students
RN to BSN1-2 years (30-35 credits)$10,000 – $20,000Licensed RNs with an ADN
ABSN12-18 months (50-60 credits)$25,000 – $40,000Non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders

RN to BSN

Students who have a nursing license and an associate degree in nursing can take advantage of Kentucky RN to BSN programs. These are typically the most common nursing bridge programs that you’ll find in Kentucky and can be completed in as little as two years.

Accelerated BSN (ABSN)

Kentucky ABSN programs are a great option for individuals who have a bachelor’s degree already but are not trained nurses. Enrolling in an ABSN program will allow you to get your BSN in less than half the time than if you enrolled in a traditional BSN program from the very beginning.

Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs

ADNs, BSNs, and nursing diplomas are all great options for students with little to no experience as nurses. However, if you’re hoping to eventually begin a career as a nurse practitioner or advanced practice nurse, you’ll need to complete either a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program, or a doctorate degree such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). These degrees will require a BSN or higher to enroll, but like BSN programs, there are lots of bridge programs available to shorten the time to graduation.

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 Kentucky:

Getting an RN License in Kentucky

Once you’ve wrapped up your education, it’s time to get licensed as an RN. Getting licensed is required of all nurses who want to practice in Kentucky. The process starts by taking the NCLEX-RN. After you’ve passed the exam, you’ll need to fill out and submit an application to the Kentucky Nursing Board.

Requirements for RN Licensure in Kentucky

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

Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?

Possibly the most thing to look for as you look for the perfect RN program is RN program accreditation. When a school is “accredited” it means that it is approved by the Kentucky Board of Nursing, thus, graduating from an accredited school means that you will be able to get licensed. As you apply to nursing schools in Kentucky, make sure that they are accredited by either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Continued List of All RN Programs in Kentucky

Here is a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs.

RankedSchoolProgramScoreWebsite
21.
Mt Sterling, KY 40353 | Phone: (859) 499-0780
Programs: Associate in Nursing
88.23
22.
Louisville, KY 40202 | Phone: (502) 852-5825
Programs: BSN
87.93
23.
Louisville, KY 40205 | Phone: (502) 272-8131
Programs: BSN
87.46
24.
Bowling Green, KY 42101 | Phone: (270) 745-4379
Programs: Associate in Nursing, BSN
86.54
25.
Elizabethtown, KY 42701 | Phone: (270) 769-2371
Programs: Associate in Nursing
86.41
26.
Grayson, KY 41143 | Phone: (800) 522-3181
Programs: BSN
86.12
27.
Madisonville, KY 42431 | Phone: (270) 821-2250
Programs: Associate in Nursing
85.26
28.
Somerset, KY 42501 | Phone: (606) 679-8501
Programs: Associate in Nursing
84.20
29.
Barbourville, KY 40906 | Phone: (606) 546-4151
Programs: BSN
83.61
30.
Henderson, KY 42420 | Phone: (270) 827-1867
Programs: Associate in Nursing
83.34
31.
Hazard, KY 41701 | Phone: (606) 629-3141
Programs: Associate in Nursing
82.21
32.
Pineville, KY 40977 | Phone: (606) 589-2145
Programs: Associate in Nursing
81.59
33.
Middlesboro, KY 40965 | Phone: (423) 869-6556
Programs: Associate in Nursing
81.52
34.
Frankfort, KY 40601 | Phone: (502) 597-6000
Programs: Associate in Nursing
80.47
35.
Hazard, KY 41701 | Phone: (606) 436-5721
Programs: Associate in Nursing
79.91
36.
Pikeville, KY 41501 | Phone: (606) 218-5250
Programs: Associate in Nursing
79.07
37.
Crestview Hills, KY 41017 | Phone: (859) 341-5800
Programs: BSN
78.80
38.
Campbellsville, KY 42718 | Phone: (270) 789-5000
Programs: Associate in Nursing, BSN
77.26
39.
Ashland, KY 41101 | Phone: (606) 326-2000
Programs: Associate in Nursing
76.25
40.
Prestonsburg, KY 41653 | Phone: (606) 886-3863
Programs: Associate in Nursing
74.39
41.
Edgewood, KY 41017 | Phone: (859) 442-4138
Programs: Associate in Nursing
73.57
42.
Florence, KY 41042 | Phone: (859) 371-9393
Programs: Associate in Nursing, BSN
73.32
43.
Cumberland, KY 40823 | Phone: (606) 589-2145
Programs: Associate in Nursing
68.81
44.
Louisville, KY 40203 | Phone: (502) 585-9911
Programs: BSN
66.42
45.
Pikeville, KY 41501 | Phone: (606) 478-7200
Programs: Associate in Nursing
65.12
46.
Louisville, KY 40223 | Phone: (502) 371-8383
Programs: Associate in Nursing
59.31
47.
Williamsburg, KY 40769 | Phone: (877) 713-8767
Programs: Associate in Nursing
39.93
48.
Jackson, KY 41339 | Phone: (606) 436-5721
Programs: Associate in Nursing
-
49.
Mt Sterling, KY 40353 | Phone: (859) 499-6282
Programs: LPN to RN
-

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