Best Nursing Schools in Rhode Island
Whether you’re originally from Rhode Island or you’re looking for a quaint, coastal change of scenery, there couldn’t be a better place to start a brand new career as a nurse. The latest data predicts that nursing positions are due to increase exponentially nationwide, with Rhode Island contributing to a large portion of them; by 2030, Rhode Island is due to have a 5% increase in nursing jobs. If you’re hoping to take advantage of this trend, below is some information that may help you in your search.
2027 Best Nursing Schools in Rhode Island
Rankings help prospective students evaluate nursing programs and make informed decisions. Registerednursing.org creates the Best Nursing Schools in Rhode Island using NCLEX pass rates as the sole ranking criteria, ensuring objective, data-driven insights. Whether you're pursuing an ADN or BSN, these rankings highlight top-performing institutions. For full methodology, see https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/.
Yearly Pass Rate Trends in Rhode Island
Pass rates improved significantly from 2022 to 2024, indicating rising program effectiveness. The statewide average climbed from 78.45% to 91.8%.
- 2022: 78.45% average pass rate
- 2023: 86.6% average pass rate
- 2024: 91.8% average pass rate
BSN vs ADN Pass Rate Comparison
Both program types demonstrate strong pass rates, with BSN programs slightly outperforming ADN programs on average.
- ADN: 91.57% average pass rate
- BSN: 91.96% average pass rate
Biggest Improvements
Several Rhode Island schools posted remarkable pass rate gains from 2024 data, reflecting targeted academic support. Salve Regina University led with a 19.09 percentage-point increase.
- Salve Regina University: 69.62% to 88.71% (+19.09)
- New England Institute of Technology: 75.21% to 91.84% (+16.63)
- University of Rhode Island: 81.41% to 97.16% (+15.75)
Consistently High Performing Schools
One institution maintained an average pass rate above 90% across multiple years, demonstrating sustained excellence.
- University of Rhode Island: 90.52% average pass rate (3 years of data)
University of Rhode Island
Kingston, RI - Public 4-Year - web.uri.edu
Bachelor's - Nursing B.S.
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Nursing B.S. at the University of Rhode Island prepares you to become a professional registered nurse. You'll study nursing sciences, develop clinical skills, and gain hands-on experience in simulation labs and clinical placements. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam for licensure. Career opportunities include entry-level positions in medical-surgical, geriatric, maternity, pediatric, psychiatric-mental health, and community nursing. You can work in hospitals, clinics, home health agencies, hospices, or the armed services. The on-campus program offers expert faculty guidance and a supportive learning environment. This degree is your foundation for a rewarding career in nursing.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Careers in multiple nursing specialties
- Work in hospitals, clinics, hospices, armed services
Rhode Island College
Providence, RI - Public 4-Year - ric.edu
Bachelor's - Nursing BSN
Campus Based - Visit Website
Rhode Island College’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a four-year program that blends rigorous academics with hands-on clinical experience. You’ll study health promotion, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, psychiatric nursing, and community health. Clinical placements happen at top healthcare facilities, and you’ll train at a state-of-the-art simulation center. The program prepares you for the NCLEX-RN exam and a career as a registered nurse in high-demand fields like emergency, critical care, or pediatrics. RIC’s BSN is CCNE accredited and ranks #15 in New England for nursing among public universities. With 30+ faculty and a second bachelor’s option, it’s designed for both traditional and transfer students seeking a strong nursing foundation.
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 4-Year program
- 120 total credit hours
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Clinical placements at nationally recognized facilities
- State-of-the-art simulation center
- 100% benefit from simulated learning
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- CCNE accredited
- 30+ full-time nursing faculty
New England Institute of Technology
East Greenwich, RI - Private 4-year - neit.edu
Associate - Associate of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
New England Institute of Technology offers an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree that can be completed in just 18 months. This ACEN-accredited program blends hands-on simulation with real clinical experiences starting in the first term. Students build a strong foundation in nursing practice, including medical-surgical nursing, mental health, pediatrics, and anatomy/physiology. Small class sizes and state-of-the-art simulation labs foster confidence and critical thinking. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN and pursue careers as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, and community settings. NEIT’s strong healthcare partnerships with facilities like Rhode Island Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital open doors for employment. The program also offers a seamless transition to the RN-to-BSN online program for continued education. Whether you're starting fresh or advancing from an LPN certificate, this degree provides a fast-track to a rewarding nursing career.
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- 18-Month program
- 82% licensure pass rate
- 94% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Clinical experiences begin in first term
- Small class sizes
Salve Regina University
Newport, RI - Private 4-year - salve.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor's Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Salve Regina University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is a direct-admission, CCNE-accredited degree that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam. The curriculum covers acute and chronic illness care, mental health, childbearing families, and end-of-life care, with hands-on learning in high-tech simulation labs. Clinical placements at top hospitals in Rhode Island and Massachusetts provide real-world experience, supported by an 8:1 student-faculty ratio. Graduates are highly employable, with 100% employed and many accepting jobs before graduation. The program also offers unique opportunities like a study abroad program in Ireland and involvement in organizations like the Student Nurse Organization. With a 99% NCLEX pass rate and a focus on holistic, patient-centered care, this program prepares students for diverse nursing careers in settings such as critical care, pediatrics, and mental health, as well as advanced degrees like the MSN or DNP.
- CCNE accredited
- Test optional
- 4-Year program
- 120 total credit hours
- 99% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX
- 8:1 clinical student-faculty ratio
- 35% accept jobs before graduation
- Study abroad in Ireland
Bachelor's - RN to B.S. in Nursing
Online Learning - Visit Website
Salve Regina University's fully online RN to BSN program is designed for licensed registered nurses seeking to advance their careers. Complete your degree in as few as 12 months with six start dates per year and asynchronous coursework that fits your busy schedule. The curriculum emphasizes patient-centered care, holistic nursing, and leadership skills, preparing you for roles in diverse healthcare settings or further study in MSN or DNP programs. You'll benefit from CCNE accreditation, affordable tuition at $373 per credit, and support through financial aid, military benefits, and employer tuition reimbursement. Transfer up to 58 credits from your prior nursing education, with a minimum of 30 credits taken at Salve. Guided by the university's mercy mission, you'll graduate as a compassionate, clinically competent nurse ready to make a positive impact on individuals and communities.
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- $373 per credit
- 12-Month program
- 125 total credit hours
- Rolling admissions
- 6 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring/summer
- Asynchronous online classes
- Military benefits accepted
- Employer reimbursement supported
Community College of Rhode Island
Warwick, RI - Public 2-Year - ccri.edu
Associate - Associate Degree Nurse Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program at Community College of Rhode Island prepares you for entry into professional nursing practice as a registered nurse generalist. The rigorous, evidence-based curriculum combines nursing theory with hands-on clinical experience in cutting-edge simulation labs. You will learn to lead, manage, and provide direct care to individuals, families, and groups across diverse healthcare settings. As the state's only public ADN program, CCRI offers a welcoming pathway with seamless options to become a CNA or LPN, plus LPN-to-RN and CNA-to-LPN bridge options. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and benefits from dedicated faculty with real-world experience. Graduates are prepared for careers in hospitals, clinics, and community health, and enjoy one of the most affordable tuition options in the region.
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
- Cutting-edge simulation labs
- Only public ADN in Rhode Island
- Seamless CNA and LPN options
- LPN-to-RN bridge available
- CNA-to-LPN bridge option
- Dedicated faculty with real-world experience
Bachelor's - RN-to-BSN Program
Online Learning - Visit Website
The innovative RN-to-BSN online program offers registered nurses a flexible pathway to advance their careers without interrupting work. Designed for working professionals, this collaborative program between CCRI and Rhode Island College enables nurses to earn a bachelor's degree conveniently. The program supports career growth, increases job opportunities, and meets critical healthcare workforce needs in Rhode Island.
- Fully online program
- Seamless pathway for nurses
- Partnership between CCRI and RIC
- Designed for working professionals
- Supports healthcare workforce development
Rhode Island Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs
An Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) is the quickest path for aspiring nurses in Rhode Island, typically taking about two years to complete. Another option is the RN diploma, usually offered by specialized nursing schools or hospital-based programs, which can be completed in 1-2 years. The key difference is that an ADN includes general college coursework, while an RN diploma focuses strictly on essential nursing skills. For Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) seeking advancement, an LPN to RN bridge program provides a route to earning either an ADN or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island.
Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs
Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Rhode Island 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:
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
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 Rhode Island:
- Rhode Island Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Rhode Island MSN Program
- Rhode Island RN to MSN Programs
- Rhode Island Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
- Rhode Island DNP Programs
See Related Articles
Getting an RN License in Rhode Island
Requirements for RN Licensure in Rhode Island
- Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
- Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
- Application to the Rhode Island Board of Nursing
- Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance
Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?
Cities With Nursing Programs in Rhode Island
List of Nursing Schools in Rhode Island
East Greenwich, RI
New England Institute of Technology
- Associate - Associate of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- 18-Month program
- 82% licensure pass rate
- 94% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
Kingston, RI
University of Rhode Island
- Bachelor's - Nursing B.S.
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Careers in multiple nursing specialties
- Work in hospitals, clinics, hospices, armed services
Newport, RI
Salve Regina University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor's Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- Test optional
- 4-Year program
- 120 total credit hours
- 99% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX
- 8:1 clinical student-faculty ratio
- Bachelor's - RN to B.S. in Nursing
Online Learning - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- $373 per credit
- 12-Month program
- 125 total credit hours
- Rolling admissions
- 6 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring/summer
- Asynchronous online classes
Providence, RI
Johnson & Wales University
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- 16-Month program
- Rolling admissions
- Full-time enrollment
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- Synchronous and asynchronous options
- Cohort-based structure
Providence College
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 22 total courses
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- State-of-the-art simulation suite
- Nine clinical experiences included
- Clinical rotation at Boston Medical Center
- Service-learning opportunities
- Study abroad available
Rhode Island College
- Bachelor's - Nursing BSN
Campus Based - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 4-Year program
- 120 total credit hours
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Clinical placements at nationally recognized facilities
- State-of-the-art simulation center
- Ranked #15 in New England for nursing
- 100% benefit from simulated learning
Warwick, RI
Community College of Rhode Island
- Associate - Associate Degree Nurse Program
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
- Cutting-edge simulation labs
- Only public ADN in Rhode Island
- Seamless CNA and LPN options
- LPN-to-RN bridge available
- CNA-to-LPN bridge option
- Dedicated faculty with real-world experience
- Bachelor's - RN-to-BSN Program
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online program
- Seamless pathway for nurses
- Partnership between CCRI and RIC
- Designed for working professionals
- Supports healthcare workforce development
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