Best Nursing Schools in Nevada
If you’re looking for a new career with job security, decent pay, and room for advancement, you may be interested in becoming a registered nurse. Among the states with the highest projections for job security for nurses, Nevada ranks higher than almost any state. Within the next ten years, you can expect an average increase of 23% in nursing positions signaling tremendous opportunities for nurses at both the entry and advanced levels. Take a look at the steps you’ll need to take to succeed in this role below.
2026 Best Nursing Schools in Nevada
Top Performing Schools Analysis
Nevada's nursing programs demonstrate impressive performance across multiple institutions. Schools with consistently high pass rates provide strong indicators of educational excellence and student preparedness.
- Great Basin College leads with a perfect 100% pass rate across two years of data
- Western Nevada College achieved a remarkable 98.99% pass rate
- University of Nevada-Reno maintained a strong 96.96% pass rate
Geographic Performance Trends
Geographic location appears to significantly influence nursing program performance across Nevada's major cities.
- Carson City shows the highest average pass rate at 98.18%
- Reno demonstrates strong performance with a 93.94% pass rate
- Las Vegas, while having the largest number of students, shows a lower average pass rate of 85.39%
Program Size and Performance
Program size correlates interestingly with NCLEX pass rates, revealing nuanced insights about nursing education in Nevada.
- Medium-sized programs (50-100 students) exhibit the highest average pass rate at 96.37%
- Large programs have an 88.67% pass rate
- Small programs show the lowest performance at 84.93%
Great Basin College
Elko, NV - Public 4-Year - gbcnv.edu
Associate - Associate of Applied Science Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Great Basin College's Associate of Applied Science in Nursing provides a comprehensive entry-level nursing education across multiple Nevada campuses. With an exceptional 100% NCLEX pass rate, the program prepares students for diverse healthcare roles through evidence-based, patient-centered care training. Students benefit from synchronized distance education, extensive clinical experiences, and simulation labs. The program requires the TEAS admission exam and emphasizes interprofessional teamwork, quality improvement processes, and information management skills. Accredited by ACEN, the program supports students with financial aid options and prepares graduates for potential baccalaureate-level advancement. Small class sizes and a supportive campus environment enhance learning opportunities for diverse patient population care.
- Accredited by ACEN.
- Campuses in multiple Nevada locations.
- Synchronized distance education.
- Clinical and simulation lab experiences.
- Prepares for baccalaureate level education.
- TEAS exam required for admission.
- Fall semester start.
- Estimated tuition $16,500.
- Books cost approximately $1,550.
- Focus on evidence-based care.
Associate - AAS in Nursing: Paramedic/LPN Bridge
Concentration: Paramedic/LPN Bridge - Campus Based - Visit Website
Great Basin College's AAS in Nursing: Paramedic/LPN Bridge program offers specialized career advancement for current paramedics and licensed practical nurses seeking registered nurse credentials. Designed for professionals with existing healthcare certifications, this 60-credit campus-based program integrates microbiology, psychology, and advanced nursing care courses. Students explore acute, chronic, and complex health condition management while preparing for RN licensure. The program requires Nevada state certification and an accredited prior degree, providing a structured pathway for healthcare professionals to expand their clinical expertise and career opportunities in nursing.
- Campus-based program
- 60 credits required
- For paramedics/LPNs
- Includes microbiology course
- Focus on complex health
- Nevada State certification needed
- Degree prerequisites apply
- Professional development included
- Hands-on nursing care training
- Prepares for RN licensure
Western Nevada College
Carson City, NV - Public 4-Year - wnc.edu
Associate - Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Western Nevada College's Associate of Applied Science in Nursing program stands out with exceptional performance, demonstrating a remarkable 100% and 98.18% NCLEX pass rate in recent years. Located in Carson City, this campus-based program prepares students comprehensively for registered nursing careers through intensive hands-on learning experiences. Students must maintain current medical health insurance and complete required immunizations. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills and academic excellence, meeting Nevada's stringent nursing education standards. With consistently high job placement rates and a focus on real-world clinical preparation, the program offers aspiring nurses a robust pathway to professional success in the healthcare industry.
- Campus-based program.
- High NCLEX-RN pass rates.
- Requires health insurance.
- Up-to-date immunizations needed.
- Prepares for Nevada RN license.
- High job placement rates.
- Hands-on learning focus.
- Meets state education requirements.
- Practical experience included.
- Academic rigor combined.
University of Nevada-Reno
Reno, NV - Public 4-Year - unr.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Nevada-Reno's BSN program provides comprehensive nursing education with exceptional outcomes. With a stellar NCLEX pass rate of 96.75% in 2023 and 97.14% in 2024, graduates demonstrate high preparedness. The program features traditional and accelerated pathways, accommodating diverse student needs. Clinical experiences are integrated throughout the curriculum, allowing students to develop practical skills in real-world healthcare settings. While specific entrance exam requirements aren't detailed, prospective students should prepare for potential standardized testing. The program emphasizes professional nursing practice, leadership development, and hands-on training. With 154-175 students per cohort, the university offers personalized learning experiences and robust faculty support. Students can expect a rigorous academic environment that prepares them for dynamic nursing careers across various healthcare settings.
- Traditional 16-month BSN option.
- RN-BSN track available.
- Campus-based program.
- Prepares for leadership roles.
- Hands-on clinical experiences.
- Comprehensive nursing coursework.
- Experienced faculty support.
- Detailed fee structure provided.
- Specific admission prerequisites.
- Emphasizes practical skills.
College of Southern Nevada
Las Vegas, NV - Public 4-Year - csn.edu
Associate - Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
The College of Southern Nevada's Associate of Applied Science in Nursing program provides comprehensive healthcare education with remarkable outcomes. With an impressive 96.55% average NCLEX pass rate across recent years, students gain robust theoretical and practical skills across multiple healthcare settings. The ACEN-accredited program emphasizes hands-on learning and professional development. Students must demonstrate English proficiency and meet Limited Entry criteria. Unique program features include multiple campus locations, health care experience documentation requirements, and mandatory post-acceptance CPR certification. Graduates benefit from an 88.3% program completion rate, positioning them effectively for diverse nursing career opportunities in hospitals, clinics, and medical facilities.
- ACEN accredited program.
- 88.3% completion rate.
- 80.95% NCLEX-RN pass rate.
- Limited Entry Program.
- English proficiency required.
- Multiple campus locations.
- Career opportunities in various settings.
- Theoretical and practical focus.
- Health care experience documentation needed.
- CPR certification required post-acceptance.
Associate - Nursing LPN to RN Bridge
Concentration: LPN to RN Bridge - Campus Based - Visit Website
The College of Southern Nevada's LPN to RN Bridge program offers licensed practical nurses a strategic pathway to advanced nursing credentials. With an outstanding 96.55% average NCLEX pass rate, this campus-based program meets Nevada's RN licensure requirements and provides comprehensive professional advancement. The curriculum balances practical skills with theoretical knowledge, supporting an impressive 86% graduate employment rate. Accredited by ACEN, the program requires English proficiency and health documentation. Designed for working professionals, this bridge program enables practical nurses to expand their clinical expertise, professional opportunities, and earning potential through a structured, focused educational approach.
- Campus-based program
- LPN to RN Bridge focus
- ACEN accredited
- Meets Nevada RN licensure requirements
- 88.3% completion rate
- 85.86% NCLEX-RN pass rate
- 86% graduate employment rate
- English proficiency required
- Health documentation needed
- Practical and theoretical focus
Nevada State University
Henderson, NV - Public 4-Year - nsc.edu
Bachelor's - Nursing, B.S.
Campus Based - Visit Website
Nevada State University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program delivers a comprehensive nursing education with exceptional outcomes. With an impressive NCLEX pass rate reaching 97.21% in 2024, students benefit from a rigorous curriculum preparing them for diverse healthcare roles. The program requires standard entrance exams and spans 120 credit hours, emphasizing patient advocacy and critical thinking. Small class sizes enable personalized learning, while full-time and part-time tracks accommodate varied student schedules. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the program focuses on caring sciences and develops essential clinical decision-making skills. Graduates are well-positioned to pursue careers as registered nurses, public health professionals, and healthcare advocates.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Full-time and part-time options.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Focus on caring sciences.
- Small class sizes.
- Affordable tuition.
- Emphasizes patient advocacy.
- Develops critical thinking skills.
- Campus-based program.
- 120 credit hours.
Nevada Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
To start your nursing career in Nevada, you’ll need to earn a degree to qualify for licensure. The common entry-level options are an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). To understand the differences between these pathways and how they might fit your goals, read on.
Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs
If you’re seeking the fastest path to RN licensure, an ADN or nursing diploma is your best option. These programs provide the essential training needed to become licensed and typically take one to two years to complete. If you’re already working as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), you may be eligible for an LPN to RN bridge program, which can help you earn either an ADN or BSN more quickly than enrolling in a traditional ADN or BSN program.
Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Nevada 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 Nevada.
Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs
ADN and nursing diploma programs are excellent choices for students who want to enter the nursing field quickly. However, if you’re looking for more in-depth training before launching your career, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program might be the better fit. A BSN is often more appealing to employers, which can help you secure job opportunities more quickly compared to an ADN or nursing diploma. While a traditional BSN takes about four years to complete, there are faster options for those who are already licensed as RNs, such as RN to BSN programs. Additionally, if you already hold a bachelor's degree in another field, an Accelerated BSN program may be a great option to consider.
Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Nevada 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:
Working nurses who want to pursue a BSN have a straightforward option through the Nevada RN to BSN. This pathway is available to nurses with an RN license, an ADN, and at least one year of nursing experience. Most nurses can complete an RN to BSN program in as little as two years, allowing them to advance their education while continuing to work.
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
Lastly, if your goal is to practice independently as a nurse practitioner or in another advanced practice role, you will need to pursue further education after earning your BSN. To do so, you'll need to graduate from 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). These advanced nursing programs typically range from 2 to 6 years of study, depending on the specific program and whether you are attending full-time or part-time. These degrees not only open doors to specialized roles in healthcare but also provide the advanced clinical skills, leadership training, and in-depth knowledge needed to work independently or in high-level positions within the healthcare system.
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 Nevada:
- Nevada Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Nevada MSN Program
- Nevada RN to MSN Programs
- Nevada Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
- Nevada DNP Programs
Getting an RN License in Nevada
The final step in becoming a licensed RN in Nevada is to complete the licensing process. To obtain your RN license, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam, submit a completed application to the Nevada Board of Nursing, and pay the required application fee. Once the board has reviewed and processed your application, you can expect to receive your license within a few weeks to a couple of months. Keep in mind that maintaining your license will require ongoing continuing education courses to meet the state’s renewal requirements.
Requirements for RN Licensure in Nevada
- Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
- Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
- Application to the Nevada Board of Nursing
- Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance
Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?
Before applying to nursing programs in Nevada, it's crucial to verify that each program meets the necessary RN program accreditation standards. In the U.S., nursing programs are accredited by two main organizations: the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). If the program you choose is not accredited by either of these organizations, you will not be eligible to meet the licensing requirements set by the Nevada Board of Nursing. Ensure that the program you select is properly accredited to avoid delays in your path to licensure.
Cities With Nursing Programs in Nevada
List of Nursing Schools in Nevada
Carson City, NV
Western Nevada College
- Associate - Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- High NCLEX-RN pass rates.
- Requires health insurance.
- Up-to-date immunizations needed.
- Prepares for Nevada RN license.
- High job placement rates.
- Hands-on learning focus.
- Meets state education requirements.
Elko, NV
Great Basin College
- Associate - AAS in Nursing: Paramedic/LPN Bridge
Concentration: Paramedic/LPN Bridge - Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- 60 credits required
- For paramedics/LPNs
- Includes microbiology course
- Focus on complex health
- Nevada State certification needed
- Degree prerequisites apply
- Professional development included
- Associate - Associate of Applied Science Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accredited by ACEN.
- Campuses in multiple Nevada locations.
- Synchronized distance education.
- Clinical and simulation lab experiences.
- Prepares for baccalaureate level education.
- TEAS exam required for admission.
- Fall semester start.
- Estimated tuition $16,500.
Henderson, NV
Nevada State University
- Bachelor's - Nursing, B.S.
Campus Based - Website
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Full-time and part-time options.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Focus on caring sciences.
- Small class sizes.
- Affordable tuition.
- Emphasizes patient advocacy.
- Develops critical thinking skills.
Roseman University of Health Sciences
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN)
Campus Based - Website
- Less than 18 months duration.
- Hybrid-online and on-campus options.
- High NCLEX-RN pass rates.
- Clinical rotations in Nevada and Utah.
- Minimum 2.75 GPA required.
- 49 semester credits prerequisite.
- TEAS score of 58.7% minimum.
- Competitive admissions process.
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Less than 18 months duration
- Hybrid-online and on-campus options
- Fall, Spring, Summer starts
- Minimum 2.75 GPA required
- 49 semester credits prerequisite
- 58.7% minimum TEAS score
- Hands-on clinical rotations
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
Las Vegas, NV
Arizona College of Nursing-Las Vegas
- Bachelor's - BSN Nursing Degree Program
Campus Based - Website
- 3-year BSN program.
- CCNE-accredited.
- Evening general education classes.
- Hands-on labs and clinicals.
- NCLEX-RN prep included.
- Financial aid available.
- Scholarships offered.
- Transfer credits accepted.
College of Southern Nevada
- Associate - Nursing LPN to RN Bridge
Concentration: LPN to RN Bridge - Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- LPN to RN Bridge focus
- ACEN accredited
- Meets Nevada RN licensure requirements
- 88.3% completion rate
- 85.86% NCLEX-RN pass rate
- 86% graduate employment rate
- English proficiency required
- Associate - Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited program.
- 88.3% completion rate.
- 80.95% NCLEX-RN pass rate.
- Limited Entry Program.
- English proficiency required.
- Multiple campus locations.
- Career opportunities in various settings.
- Theoretical and practical focus.
Las Vegas College
- Associate - Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based nursing program.
- Focuses on practical nursing skills.
- Requires high school diploma or GED.
- Hands-on training included.
- Supportive learning environment.
University of Nevada-Las Vegas
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 16-month intensive program.
- Patient-centered care focus.
- Prepares for NCLEX licensure.
- Leadership and technology emphasis.
- Requires pre-major course completion.
- Campus-based learning.
- Prepares for graduate studies.
- Focus on clinical judgment.
Reno, NV
Truckee Meadows Community College
- Associate - Nursing, AS
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- Requires 'C' or better
- Includes nursing care courses
- Covers pharmacology fundamentals
- Cultural nursing aspects
- Nevada licensure eligibility
- Prerequisite courses required
University of Nevada-Reno
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Traditional 16-month BSN option.
- RN-BSN track available.
- Campus-based program.
- Prepares for leadership roles.
- Hands-on clinical experiences.
- Comprehensive nursing coursework.
- Experienced faculty support.
- Detailed fee structure provided.
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