Best Nursing Schools in Nevada

Last Updated On Jan 7, 2025

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

8 Min Read

2025 Best Nursing Schools in Nevada

Finding the best nursing school in Nevada is a big step toward a successful career in healthcare. At registerednursing.org, we've ranked the top nursing programs in the state based on their NCLEX-RN pass rates, a key indicator of how well schools prepare students for the licensing exam. These pass rates are a big part of our rankings because they show which schools give their graduates the best shot at passing the NCLEX-RN on the first try. Choosing a school with high pass rates is important for future nurses, as it often means better preparation and a smoother start to their careers. For more details on how we put together our rankings, check out our rankings methodology.

Nevada State University

Henderson, NV - Public 4-Year - nsc.edu

Bachelor's - Nursing, B.S.

Campus Based - Visit Website

Nevada State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program that stands out for its accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). This campus-based program is tailored for students seeking a flexible education with both full-time and part-time options available. It requires an ACT or SAT for admission, focusing on a curriculum rich in caring sciences to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam. Notable for its small class sizes and affordability, the program fosters skills in patient advocacy, critical thinking, and clinical decision-making, preparing graduates for diverse roles in nursing and public health.

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.

Roseman University of Health Sciences

Henderson, NV - Private 4-year - roseman.edu

Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Roseman University of Health Sciences in Henderson, NV, presents an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program, blending hybrid-online and on-campus learning for efficiency. Aimed at fast-tracking students into nursing, the program spans less than 18 months, featuring starts in Fall, Spring, and Summer to accommodate various schedules. Prerequisites include a 2.75 GPA, 49 semester credits, and a 58.7% TEAS score. The curriculum is rich with clinical rotations across Southern Nevada and Utah, designed to equip students with practical experience. Notably, the program boasts a high NCLEX-RN pass rate and supports students with financial aid, emphasizing a competency-based education approach.

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
Financial aid available
Competitive admissions process

Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN)

Campus Based - Visit Website

At Roseman University of Health Sciences in Henderson, NV, the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program offers a rapid pathway to nursing, available both on-campus and in a hybrid format. This program is tailored for individuals seeking to quickly enter the nursing field, with a completion time under 18 months. Admission criteria include a minimum 2.75 GPA, 49 semester credits, and a TEAS score of at least 58.7%. Students benefit from extensive clinical rotations in Nevada and Utah, ensuring hands-on experience. The program is distinguished by its high first-time NCLEX-RN pass rates and robust employment outcomes for graduates.

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.
Hands-on learning focus.
Strong post-graduation employment.

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University of Nevada-Las Vegas

Las Vegas, NV - Public 4-Year - unlv.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Nevada-Las Vegas offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program that stands out for its intensive 16-month duration, designed to fast-track students into the nursing profession. This campus-based program emphasizes patient-centered care, integrating leadership, clinical judgment, and technological proficiency into its curriculum. Prospective students must complete pre-major courses prior to admission, with no mention of ACT or SAT requirements, making it accessible for those focused on entering the nursing field efficiently. Accredited and military-friendly, the program not only prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam but also lays a strong foundation for future graduate studies in nursing.

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.
Entry-level nursing practice ready.
Accredited program.

Arizona College of Nursing-Las Vegas

Las Vegas, NV - Private 4-year - arizonacollege.edu

Bachelor's - BSN Nursing Degree Program

Campus Based - Visit Website

Arizona College of Nursing in Las Vegas offers a fast-track to a nursing career with its Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, achievable in just three years. Accredited by the CCNE, this program emphasizes a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills through hands-on labs and clinical experiences. Unique to this program are evening general education classes, providing flexibility for students. From the outset, the curriculum is designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam, boasting an 83.09% pass rate. Financial aid, scholarships, and military benefits are available, alongside comprehensive student support services including tutoring, career preparation, and clinical partnerships across Nevada.

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.
Military benefits available.
Career services provided.

Las Vegas College

Las Vegas, NV - Private 4-year - lvcollege.edu

Associate - Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Las Vegas College offers an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing, designed for students eager to enter the healthcare field swiftly. This program emphasizes hands-on experience and foundational nursing principles, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN. With a focus on patient care and medical knowledge, it's perfect for those looking to start their nursing career without delay. Admission is straightforward, requiring only a high school diploma or GED, making it accessible to many. The program's supportive environment fosters learning and growth, setting students up for success in the nursing profession.

Campus-based nursing program.
Focuses on practical nursing skills.
Requires high school diploma or GED.
Hands-on training included.
Supportive learning environment.

*Institutional data extracted from: IPEDS 2023, NCES.

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

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)

If you already hold a bachelor’s degree, even in a field other than nursing, you can transition into nursing and earn your BSN in just one to two years through a Nevada ABSN program. This is an excellent option for individuals seeking a career change later in life.

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:

See Related Articles

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.

List of Nursing Schools in Nevada

Nevada offers a variety of nursing schools for students looking to start or advance their careers in healthcare. These schools provide programs ranging from LPN to BSN and beyond, each with unique features to meet different career goals. Located across the state, they offer hands-on training and classroom learning. Below, you'll find a table listing these schools, their locations, program highlights, and links to more information. This guide helps you compare options to find the best fit for your nursing education.

Jump to City:

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.
Bachelor's - RN to BSN Nursing Program
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online program.
- Complete in one year.
- Focus on rural populations.
- ACEN accredited.
- Flexible track options.
- Active RN license required.
- 3.0 GPA minimum.
- Leadership and informatics focus.