Best Nursing Schools in Mississippi

Last Updated On Jan 7, 2025

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

7 Min Read

2025 Best Nursing Schools in Mississippi

Finding the right nursing school in Mississippi is a big step toward a successful career in healthcare. At registerednursing.org, we've ranked the best nursing schools in the state based on their NCLEX-RN pass rates to help you make an informed decision. These pass rates are a key indicator of a program's ability to prepare students for the challenges of the nursing profession. Schools with higher pass rates often provide the quality education and support needed to pass this crucial exam on the first try. Choosing a school with a strong NCLEX-RN pass rate can set you up for success from day one. For more details on how we rank these schools, visit our rankings methodology page. It's important for future nurses to pick schools with higher NCLEX pass rates because it shows the program's effectiveness in teaching the skills and knowledge needed for the exam and real-world nursing. This choice can greatly impact your readiness and confidence as you start your nursing career.

Mississippi University for Women

Columbus, MS - Public 4-Year - muw.edu

Bachelor's - Baccalaureate Program in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Mississippi University for Women offers a Baccalaureate Program in Nursing designed to cultivate nurse generalists with a strong foundation in leadership, health promotion, and care improvement. The program features two distinct tracks: a traditional 4-year Generic Option for new students and an Advanced Placement Option for RNs, available in full-time (12 months) or part-time (18 months) formats. Accredited and responsive to contemporary health challenges, the curriculum emphasizes prevention and leadership in diverse healthcare settings. Prospective students should note the program's focus on preparing graduates for the NCLEX-RN, with a commitment to fostering a supportive learning environment for career advancement in nursing.

Two tracks available.
Generic Option: 4-year plan.
Advanced Placement for RNs.
Full-time: 12 months.
Part-time: 18 months.
Prepares nurse generalists.
Leadership in health promotion.
Accredited program.
Flexible paths for RNs.
Focus on prevention.

Delta State University

Cleveland, MS - Public 4-Year - deltastate.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Delta State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that blends online coursework with in-person learning, catering to both full-time and part-time students. This hybrid program is structured to be completed in five semesters for full-time students and seven for those attending part-time, preparing graduates thoroughly for the NCLEX-RN exam. Admission is competitive, with ACT score requirements of 21 or higher alongside a 2.0 GPA, or 18-20 with a 2.5 GPA. Notably, the program has achieved a 100% NCLEX pass rate, underscoring its effectiveness in nursing education. Additionally, students benefit from access to a simulation lab, diverse clinical practices, and various scholarships, making it a compelling choice for aspiring nurses.

Hybrid program format
Full-time or part-time options
Five semesters full-time
Seven semesters part-time
Prepares for NCLEX exam
Competitive admission
ACT score requirements
GPA requirements
100% NCLEX pass rate
Scholarships available

University of Southern Mississippi

Hattiesburg, MS - Public 4-Year - usm.edu

Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Southern Mississippi's Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program is tailored for those holding a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field, offering a swift transition into nursing. This intensive 12-month program, located at the Gulf Park campus, merges academic rigor with practical clinical training to equip students for the NCLEX-RN exam. Prospective students must have a prior degree, complete prerequisite courses, and pass a nursing entrance exam. Known for its high NCLEX pass rates and successful graduate outcomes, the ABSN program is ideal for individuals aiming for a rapid and fulfilling shift to a nursing career.

12-month program duration.
Gulf Park campus location.
Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
High NCLEX pass rate.
Strong graduate employment.
Previous degree required.
Specific prerequisites needed.
Nursing entrance exam required.
Hands-on clinical experience.
Fast-track career change option.

Pearl River Community College

Poplarville, MS - Public 2-Year - prcc.edu

Associate - Associate Degree Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Pearl River Community College stands out for its Associate Degree Nursing program, offering both traditional and LPN to ADN pathways across its Poplarville and Forrest County campuses. This ACEN-accredited program equips students with a robust foundation in nursing theory and hands-on clinical experience, preparing them for the NCLEX-RN exam. Admission requires the science section of the ACT, ensuring students are ready for the rigorous coursework. Graduates leave with an AAS degree, ready to embark on their nursing careers. The program's diverse clinical settings and multiple start dates provide flexibility and a comprehensive learning environment.

Accredited by ACEN.
Options at two campuses.
Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
AAS degree upon completion.
ACT science section required.
Diverse clinical settings.
Traditional and LPN pathways.
Balanced curriculum.
Skills labs included.
Multiple start dates.

Mississippi College

Clinton, MS - Private 4-year - mc.edu

Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Mississippi College offers an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program tailored for those holding a bachelor's degree in another field, aiming to transition into nursing swiftly. This rigorous, 4-semester program combines classroom learning with clinical rotations to master nursing essentials. Applicants need a 3.0 GPA, completed prerequisites, and must pass the HESI A2 exam or present an ACT score of at least 21. The curriculum is designed to thoroughly prepare students for the NCLEX-RN, ensuring they are ready for the challenges of a nursing career. With its Southern Baptist affiliation and military-friendly policies, Mississippi College provides a supportive environment for aspiring nurses.

Accelerated 4-semester program.
Requires prior bachelor's degree.
3.0 GPA admission requirement.
HESI A2 or ACT 21+ needed.
Focuses on essential nursing skills.
Includes clinical rotations.
Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
Campus-based learning.
Prerequisite courses required.
Intensive, fast-paced curriculum.

*Data extracted from: NCES IPEDS 2023 public dataset.

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

Mississippi provides several outstanding pathways for those beginning their nursing careers, including options like an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. Explore the details below to see which path aligns best with your goals.

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

An ADN is the fastest route for aspiring nurses to enter the profession, with programs that can be completed in about two years. Another option is the RN diploma, usually available through specialized nursing schools and hospital-based programs, typically taking 1-2 years. The main distinction is that an ADN includes additional general college coursework, whereas the RN diploma centers solely on essential nursing skills. For Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) looking to advance, the LPN to RN bridge program offers a path to earn either an ADN or a BSN.

Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Mississippi 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 Mississippi.

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

For some nurses, a traditional 4-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is the perfect choice. Typically, students who go with this option have little to no nursing experience and no previous nursing education. However, if you do have nursing experience, a nursing license, and an ADN, you can enroll in an RN to BSN which get you to graduation in a much shorter amount of time. The same goes for an Accelerated BSN program — if you have a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing, your timeline to graduation will be much shorter.

Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Mississippi 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

If you already hold an ADN or nursing diploma and are looking to progress to a bachelor's degree, Mississippi offers RN to BSN programs designed for just that. These flexible programs, available both full-time and part-time, let nurses continue working while they study. Courses can be taken on-campus or online, though clinical hours must be completed in person.

Accelerated BSN (ABSN)

Mississippi Accelerated BSN (ABSN) programs offer an even faster route than RN to BSN pathways. These intensive programs are tailored for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field, allowing them to transition into nursing in as little as a year. For the right candidate, it's an ideal fast-track option!

Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs

Mississippi students aiming for advanced nursing roles will need to pursue a graduate nursing degree—options include 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). Generally, a BSN is required to enter these programs, but once you're enrolled, the professional opportunities make the journey worthwhile.

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 Mississippi:

See Related Articles

Getting an RN License in Mississippi

After graduation, nurses planning to practice in Mississippi must obtain licensure. To become a licensed RN in Mississippi, candidates must submit a formal application to the Mississippi Board of Nursing and successfully pass the NCLEX-RN exam.

Requirements for RN Licensure in Mississippi

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

Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?

Accreditation is a crucial factor when choosing an RN program. If a program lacks accreditation, it means that the state board has not approved its curriculum, and graduates may be ineligible for licensure. In the U.S., nursing program accreditation is overseen by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

List of Nursing Schools in Mississippi

If you're looking to start or advance your nursing career in Mississippi, you're in the right place. Below is a list of nursing schools across the state, each offering unique programs to fit your goals. From hands-on training to specialized courses, these schools provide the education you need. Find details on their locations, what makes their programs stand out, and links to learn more. Start your journey to becoming a nurse in Mississippi today.

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Alcorn State, MS

Alcorn State University

Associate - Associate of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Two completion options available
- Generic Program: four semesters
- LPN Advanced Placement: three semesters
- Focus on safe, competent nursing care
- Emphasis on evidence-based practices
- Culturally appropriate care training
- Leadership and management skills
- Effective communication strategies
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Four-semester Generic Option
- Two-semester RN to BSN
- Evidence-based practice focus
- Leadership and management training
- Culturally competent care
- Inter-professional collaboration
- Safe, quality care emphasis
- Technology integration in nursing

Blue Mountain, MS

Blue Mountain Christian University

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 120 credit hour program
- Four-year completion
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- Christ-centered instruction
- NCLEX-RN exam eligible
- 60 general education credits
- 60 major education credits
- RN to BSN track available

Booneville, MS

Northeast Mississippi Community College

Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN® exam.
- Accredited by ACEN.
- Mississippi Board of Trustees accredited.
- Application deadline May 1.
- Health requirements due August 1.
- Combines nursing and general education.
- Fosters critical thinking skills.

Cleveland, MS

Delta State University

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- Full-time or part-time options
- Five semesters full-time
- Seven semesters part-time
- Prepares for NCLEX exam
- Competitive admission
- ACT score requirements
- GPA requirements

Clinton, MS

Mississippi College

Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accelerated 4-semester program.
- Requires prior bachelor's degree.
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement.
- HESI A2 or ACT 21+ needed.
- Focuses on essential nursing skills.
- Includes clinical rotations.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Campus-based learning.
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Traditional and Accelerated BSN options
- Comprehensive clinical training
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Multiple clinical reasoning courses
- CCNE accredited program
- 30 prerequisite credits needed
- Multiple career pathway options
- Hands-on healthcare experience