Best Nursing Schools in New Mexico
The breathtaking scenery and diverse Southwestern communities of New Mexico are just two reasons that many are drawn to this unique state every year. But more recently, the nursing shortage of 2020 dramatically opened up the nursing job market spurring a migration of nurses to the state to seek employment, job security, and higher wages. Most recent estimates predict a 14& increase of nursing positions over the next decade, with no sign of stopping anytime soon. If you’re hoping to capitalize on these findings and begin a new career as a nurse in this state, read over the next few sections to find out how.
2027 Best Nursing Schools in New Mexico
Choosing the right nursing school is a critical decision. Rankings help prospective students compare programs based on objective data. Registerednursing.org has created rankings for the Best Nursing Schools in New Mexico, using NCLEX pass rates as the sole ranking criterion. For our methodology, see https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/.
Yearly Pass Rate Trends
Pass rates have steadily improved across New Mexico from 2022 to 2024, with a notable jump of seven percentage points between 2022 and 2023.
- 2022: 83.38% average pass rate (2,760 students)
- 2023: 90.36% average (3,102 students)
- 2024: 91.58% average (2,660 students)
BSN vs ADN Pass Rate Comparison
BSN programs in New Mexico outperform ADN programs on average pass rates, with a two-point gap. However, ADN programs graduate fewer students, suggesting a smaller but still competitive cohort.
- BSN: 92.26% average pass rate (1,176 students)
- ADN: 90.13% average (456 students)
Top Performing Schools
The top three schools by average pass rate all exceed 95%, with Southeast New Mexico College leading at 97.37%.
- Southeast New Mexico College: 97.37% (38 students)
- Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell: 95.65% (69 students)
- Clovis Community College: 95.55% (90 students)
Geographic Trends
Among the largest cities, Las Cruces and Farmington have the highest average pass rates, while Albuquerque and Los Lunas lag slightly.
- Albuquerque: 88.79% (553 students)
- Farmington: 93.57% (202 students)
- Las Cruces: 94.41% (179 students)
- Gallup: 92.00% (175 students)
- Los Lunas: 88.89% (171 students)
Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell
Roswell, NM - Public 2-Year - roswell.enmu.edu
Associate - Associate of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell's Associate of Science in Nursing pairs rigorous classroom instruction with clinical rotations spanning medical-surgical, obstetric, pediatric, mental health, and pharmacology content, finishing with a capstone in the final semester. The ACEN-accredited, cohort-based program admits students each January and August, requires a 2.8 GPA plus prerequisites, and mandates the TEAS entrance exam. Ranked the top nursing program in New Mexico, ENMU-Roswell recorded a 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate in 2023 (20 candidates) and 2024 (31 candidates), following 83.3% in 2022. DAISY Award recognition and an established 1968 heritage.
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 2-Year program
- Complete in about 3 years from start to finish
- Apply by 2026-05-22
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- 100% licensure pass rate
- Cohort-based structure
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing, BSN Completion Program
Online Learning - Visit Website
Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell's BSN Completion Program is delivered 100% online and carries ACEN accreditation, letting working registered nurses finish the bachelor's in about 16 months via accelerated eight-week courses. Entry requires an active RN license; no standardized entrance examination is listed among the admission requirements, and rolling admission comes with no application fee. Part-time and full-time formats accommodate busy schedules. The curriculum sharpens critical thinking, clinical judgment, and professional development, and graduates report a 98% employment rate, making this an accessible route to career advancement.
- 100% online ACEN accredited program
- RN license required for entry
- Completion possible in 16 months
- 8-week course format
- 98% graduate employment rate
- Rolling admission available
- No application fee
- Designed for working professionals
- Part-time and full-time options
Clovis Community College
Clovis, NM - Public 2-Year - clovis.edu
Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Clovis Community College's Associate of Applied Science in Nursing, ACEN-accredited, spans 70 credits with two annual start dates. The curriculum integrates nursing theory, pharmacology, and clinical rotations in geriatric, pediatric, obstetrics, psychiatric, and intensive care. Students earn a practical nursing certificate before completing the ADN. NCLEX-RN first-time pass rates have been exceptional: 91.89% in 2022, 95.83% in 2023, and 100% in 2024. A capstone and prerequisites are required. Personalized support from dedicated faculty and advisors, plus financial aid and scholarships, enhance student success. Graduates are well-prepared for RN licensure and diverse healthcare careers.
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
- 70 total credit hours
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- 100% licensure pass rate
- Prerequisite courses required
- Capstone required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
Northern New Mexico College
Espanola, NM - Public 4-Year - nnmc.edu
Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Northern New Mexico College's Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program, accredited by ACEN, spans five semesters and blends classroom, lab, simulation, and clinical training. The curriculum emphasizes patient-centered care, safety, and quality. A Practical Nurse Certificate step-out option adds flexibility. Prerequisites can be completed in one semester, and scholarships are available. Clinical partnerships with local hospitals and personalized academic support, including advisors and a success coach, enhance learning. Graduates are prepared for entry-level nursing roles and can pursue a BSN. NCLEX pass rates are strong: 100% in both 2023 and 2024, with 11 and 10 students respectively, and 84.62% in 2022. High demand for nurses ensures a fulfilling career.
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
- 5-Semester program
- Complete in just five semesters
- Prerequisite courses required
- Scholarships available
- Prerequisites completed in one semester
- Clinical partnerships with local hospitals
- Personalized academic support available
- High demand for registered nurses
- Prepare for BSN completion
New Mexico Junior College
Hobbs, NM - Public 2-Year - nmjc.edu
Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
New Mexico Junior College offers an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing, a two-year campus-based program accredited by ACEN and fully approved by the New Mexico Board of Nursing. The curriculum emphasizes patient-centered care, evidence-based practice, and leadership, with hands-on labs and clinical placements. Small cohorts of up to 50 students start each fall in a state-of-the-art facility. Graduates are prepared for the NCLEX-RN, with recent pass rates of 90.3% (2022), 100% (2023), and 96.3% (2024). Financial aid and scholarships are available. Career opportunities include hospitals, schools, and community settings, with pathways to BSN, MSN, and DNP degrees.
- ACEN accredited
- 2-Year program
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Full approval from NM Board of Nursing
- Eligible for NCLEX-RN licensure
- Career opportunities in hospitals, schools, military
San Juan College
Farmington, NM - Public 2-Year - sanjuancollege.edu
Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
San Juan College's Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) in Farmington delivers a two-year route to RN licensure, blending classroom theory, instructor-supervised simulation lab practice, and clinical rotations at regional hospitals and healthcare agencies. The ACEN-accredited curriculum covers patient assessment, care planning, and collaborative teamwork. NCLEX-RN outcomes are strong: the ADN cohort earned a 100% first-time pass rate in both 2022 (26 candidates) and 2024 (22 candidates), with 92.59% in 2023 (27 candidates). Low tuition, NM Opportunity and Lottery Scholarship eligibility, and reported 100% job placement support affordability and career launch. No ACT or SAT entrance exam requirement is explicitly stated.
- ACEN accredited
- 2-Year program
- 100% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Scholarships available
- Accredited by ACEN since 1988
- NM Opportunity and Lottery Scholarships eligible
- Clinical placements at local hospitals and agencies
- Simulation lab with instructor supervision
Bachelor's - Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing (BSN)
Campus Based - Visit Website
San Juan College's Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing (BSN) is offered in partnership with the University of New Mexico, providing a four-year pathway alongside the college's ADN option. Coursework combines simulation lab instruction and clinical training across diverse healthcare settings, preparing graduates for the NCLEX-RN. BSN cohorts posted first-time pass rates ranging from about 87% to 100% between 2022 and 2024, including 95.65% and 92.78% in 2024. The ACEN-accredited program features affordable tuition with potential NM Opportunity and Lottery Scholarship eligibility. ACT or SAT entrance exam requirements are not explicitly specified.
- Two nursing degree paths
- 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate
- Simulation and clinical experience
- Partnership with UNM
- ACEN accredited program
- Multiple healthcare settings
- Potential tuition-free options
New Mexico Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
To begin your nursing career in New Mexico, earning a degree is essential for licensure eligibility. Common entry-level nursing degree options include an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Each of these pathways offers distinct advantages and requirements. Explore the details below to better understand the differences and determine which path might suit you best.
Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs
Starting a nursing career can feel overwhelming, especially when deciding on the right degree. New nurses in New Mexico generally follow one of three primary educational paths: an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). All three qualify you for entry-level positions, but each option has distinct benefits. An ADN or diploma program is the quickest path, typically allowing you to complete your education and obtain a license within 1 to 2 years. A BSN takes about four years of full-time study, but it broadens your career opportunities. If you're currently an LPN, there are accelerated LPN to RN bridge programs available to help you earn an ADN or BSN faster.
Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in New Mexico 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 New Mexico.
Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs
Although ADN programs and nursing diplomas offer faster entry into the workforce, earning a BSN can be a worthwhile investment for many students. Employers often prefer hiring nurses with a BSN over those with an ADN or diploma, and a BSN provides a strong base for those interested in advancing to graduate-level nursing degrees. If you're already an RN with an ADN, you could complete a BSN in as little as two years. Alternatively, if you hold a bachelor's degree in another field, an accelerated BSN program may allow you to finish in just one year, depending on your existing credits.
Admissions requirements for BSN programs in New Mexico 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:
Nurses in New Mexico looking to further their education and obtain a BSN degree can take advantage of the RN to BSN programs available within the state. These programs are tailored for licensed RNs, often those with an ADN and at least a year of nursing experience. Many nurses can complete their RN to BSN studies in as little as two years, allowing for a flexible and efficient route to career advancement.
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
If you already hold a bachelor's degree, even in a non-nursing field, you can transition to nursing and earn your BSN in one to two years through a New Mexico ABSN program. This pathway is ideal for those considering a career change later in life and looking for a fast track into nursing.
Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
If your goal in New Mexico is to practice independently as a nurse practitioner or advanced practice nurse, you'll need to complete a graduate program, such as 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 degrees typically require an additional 2 to 6 years of study beyond the bachelor's level.
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 New Mexico:
- New Mexico Nurse Practitioner Programs
- New Mexico MSN Program
- New Mexico RN to MSN Programs
- New Mexico Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
- New Mexico DNP Programs
See Related Articles
Getting an RN License in New Mexico
To practice as a nurse in New Mexico, you'll need to obtain RN licensure. This process involves passing the NCLEX-RN exam after completing an accredited nursing program. Once you've successfully passed the exam, the final step is to submit an application to the New Mexico Board of Nursing and pay the required fee.
Requirements for RN Licensure in New Mexico
- Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
- Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
- Application to the New Mexico Board of Nursing
- Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance
Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?
Whichever program you choose, it's essential to verify that the RN program accreditation. Accreditation ensures that the program meets the standards set by the state nursing board. When applying to nursing programs in New Mexico, confirm that they are accredited by either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Cities With Nursing Programs in New Mexico
List of Nursing Schools in New Mexico
Alamogordo, NM
New Mexico State University-Alamogordo
- Associate - Associates of Applied Science in Nursing (AASN)
Campus Based - Website
- 5-Semester program
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Initial approval by NMBON
- Accredited by Higher Learning Commission
- Pursuing ACEN accreditation
- Director of Nursing: Theresa Ross
Albuquerque, NM
Brookline College-Albuquerque
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: HESI
- $61,352 total program tuition
- 16-Month program
- 83% licensure pass rate
- 88% job placement rate
- Prerequisite courses required
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: HESI
- $102,429 total program tuition
- 3-Year program
- Asynchronous online classes
- 88% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
Central New Mexico Community College
- Associate - Nursing (AAS), LPN to RN Mobility Option
Concentration: LPN to RN Mobility - Campus Based - Website
- No entrance exam required
- 3 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring/summer
- 2.8 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- LPN to RN mobility option
- Credit for prior learning for LPNs
- Associate - Nursing (AAS), NMNEC Concentration
Concentration: NMNEC - Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: HESI
- Apply by 2026-09-25
- 3 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring/summer
- 2.8 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Dual degree BSN option with UNM
- Associate - Nursing (AAS)
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- 4-Semester program
- 84% licensure pass rate
- 85% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- One-on-one practicum in real healthcare settings
Pima Medical Institute-Albuquerque
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)
Online Learning - Website
- Online program, one year duration
- Designed for working nurses
- Leadership and management focus
- Requires active RN license
- Accredited by CCNE
- Enhances career opportunities
- Covers evidence-based research
- Community health perspectives
University of New Mexico
- Bachelor's - Accelerated 2nd Degree BSN Option
Campus Based - Website
- No entrance exam required
- 16-Month program
- 2.8 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- 8:1 student to clinical faculty ratio
- 99% clinical placement in UNM Health System
- State-of-the-art simulation center
- Partnership with Level 1 trauma center
- Bachelor's - Freshman Direct-Entry BSN Option
Campus Based - Website
- Prerequisite courses required
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Guaranteed admission for seniors
- Apply as a high school senior
- Immediate College of Nursing affiliation
- Pathway to graduate school
- Albuquerque Main Campus
- Bachelor's - Pre-Licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 5 concentration options
- Prerequisite courses required
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Apply to multiple BSN options
- Designated Financial Aid Office for nursing
Clovis, NM
Clovis Community College
- Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
- 70 total credit hours
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- 100% licensure pass rate
- Prerequisite courses required
- Capstone required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
Espanola, NM
Northern New Mexico College
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
- 5-Semester program
- Complete in just five semesters
- Prerequisite courses required
- Scholarships available
- Prerequisites completed in one semester
- Clinical partnerships with local hospitals
- Personalized academic support available
Farmington, NM
San Juan College
- Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- 2-Year program
- 100% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Scholarships available
- Accredited by ACEN since 1988
- NM Opportunity and Lottery Scholarships eligible
- Bachelor's - Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing (BSN)
Campus Based - Website
- Two nursing degree paths
- 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate
- Simulation and clinical experience
- Partnership with UNM
- ACEN accredited program
- Multiple healthcare settings
- Potential tuition-free options
Gallup, NM
University of New Mexico-Gallup Campus
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Campus Based - Website
- 128 total credit hours
- Dual degree partnership program
- Minimum 30 UNM credits required
- ATI TEAS exam prerequisite
- Associate and Bachelor's degrees
Hobbs, NM
New Mexico Junior College
- Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- 2-Year program
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Full approval from NM Board of Nursing
Las Cruces, NM
New Mexico State University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: HESI
- 4-Year program
- 124 total credit hours
- 3 start dates per year
- Starts summer/fall/spring
- 2.8 GPA minimum
New Mexico State University-Dona Ana
- Associate - Associate in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 72 total credit hours
- LPN to ADN bridge option
- Courses identical to NMSU main campus
- Minimum C+ in nursing courses
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Four-year, 124-125 credit program
- Available at multiple campuses
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- CCNE accredited program
- Competitive admission process
- 2.75 minimum prerequisite GPA
- Requires HESI A2 exam
- Clinical experience included
Las Vegas, NM
Luna Community College
- Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 71 total credit hours
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 76.1% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
Los Lunas, NM
University of New Mexico-Valencia County Campus
- Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: HESI
- 6-Semester program
- Apply by 2026-05-31
- Starts fall
- 53% licensure pass rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
Portales, NM
Eastern New Mexico University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online Learning - Website
- ACEN accredited
- 16-Month program
- Rolling admissions
- Full-time and part-time options
- Starts fall/spring/summer
- 98% job placement rate
- $0 application fee
- Military benefits accepted
Ranchos De Taos, NM
University of New Mexico-Taos Campus
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Two-year dual degree program
- 65 total nursing credits
- Five sequential semester structure
- Comprehensive clinical training
- Professional nursing skill development
- Annual fall cohort admission
- TEAS exam required for entry
- Minimum 30 UNM credit hours
Roswell, NM
Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell
- Associate - Associate of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 2-Year program
- Complete in about 3 years from start to finish
- Apply by 2026-05-22
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing, BSN Completion Program
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online ACEN accredited program
- RN license required for entry
- Completion possible in 16 months
- 8-week course format
- 98% graduate employment rate
- Rolling admission available
- No application fee
- Designed for working professionals
Santa Fe, NM
Santa Fe Community College
- Associate - Associate in Applied Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: HESI
- 3-Year program
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- 96% licensure pass rate
- $77,600 median earnings
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 100% NCLEX exam pass rate
- Partnership with UNM
- Concept-based nursing education
- Diverse healthcare career paths
- ACEN accredited program
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