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.
Jump to:
- Rhode Island RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
- Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Getting an RN License in Rhode Island
For RN bridge programs visit:
Cities in Rhode Island
2025 Best Nursing Schools in Rhode Island
Finding the right nursing school in Rhode Island 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 compile our rankings, visit https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/. It's important for future nurses to consider NCLEX pass rates when selecting a school because these rates reflect the program's effectiveness in preparing students for real-world nursing challenges. Higher pass rates often mean better-prepared graduates, ready to excel in their careers and provide top-notch patient care.
University of Rhode Island
Kingston, RI - Public 4-Year - web.uri.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Rhode Island offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge for a successful nursing career. This four-year, campus-based program emphasizes a comprehensive curriculum that integrates theoretical learning with practical clinical experiences, preparing students for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam. With a requirement of 120 credits, the program includes both general education and specialized nursing courses, fostering a strong foundation in patient-centered care. Admission criteria include a solid science background and a minimum GPA of 3.0 for readmission candidates. Students benefit from diverse clinical placements across Rhode Island, enhancing their readiness for the healthcare field.
- 120 credits for graduation
- Four-year program
- Campus-based learning
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN licensure
- Clinical experiences in Rhode Island
- Strong science background required
- GPA over 3.0 for readmission
- Focuses on patient-centered care
- Includes general education requirements
- Hands-on clinical experiences
Rhode Island College
Providence, RI - Public 4-Year - ric.edu
Bachelor's - Nursing BSN
Campus Based - Visit Website
Rhode Island College offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that combines rigorous academics with practical clinical experiences. This program, accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, prepares students for the NCLEX-RN and a variety of nursing careers through courses in health promotion, pediatric, and medical-surgical nursing. The college boasts advanced facilities like the Rhode Island Nursing Education Center, enhancing student learning. Admission requires meeting academic criteria, with no mention of ACT or SAT requirements. The program's emphasis on experiential learning and its accreditation status make it a standout choice for nursing students in Rhode Island.
- Nationally recognized BSN program.
- Hands-on clinical placements.
- State-of-the-art learning facilities.
- Covers diverse nursing topics.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Prepares for high-demand careers.
- Rigorous academic foundation.
- Experiential learning opportunities.
- Focus on health promotion.
- Includes pediatric nursing.
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
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
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?
List of Nursing Schools in Rhode Island
Rhode Island offers several nursing schools with programs designed to prepare students for careers in healthcare. These schools provide a range of options from associate degrees to bachelor's and beyond, located in cities across the state. Each program has its own highlights, such as clinical rotations or specialized tracks. Below, you'll find a table listing these schools, where they're located, what makes their programs stand out, and links to learn more about each one.
East Greenwich, RI
New England Institute of Technology
- Associate - Associate of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 18-month program duration.
- Campus-based learning.
- Hands-on practical training.
- Comprehensive nursing curriculum.
- Prepares for healthcare careers.
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online, flexible program
- 14-15 months completion time
- ACEN Accredited Program
- Part-time study option
- Minimum 2.7 GPA requirement
- Capstone practicum experience
- Advanced nursing knowledge focus
- Career advancement opportunities
Kingston, RI
University of Rhode Island
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 120 credits for graduation
- Four-year program
- Campus-based learning
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN licensure
- Clinical experiences in Rhode Island
- Strong science background required
- GPA over 3.0 for readmission
- Focuses on patient-centered care
Newport, RI
Salve Regina University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor's Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Two study tracks available.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Hands-on clinical placements.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN.
- Focus on patient-centered care.
- Covers health assessment.
- Includes pharmacology studies.
- Public health curriculum.
- Bachelor's - RN to B.S. in Nursing
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online program.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Complete in 12 months.
- Six start dates yearly.
- Preferred tuition rates.
- Financial aid available.
- Focus on patient-centered care.
- Holistic health approach.
Providence, RI
Johnson & Wales University-Online
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 16-month full-time program
- Hybrid online and in-person learning
- Scholarships up to $12,000 available
- 3.0 GPA requirement for admission
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- Interprofessional education focus
- Hands-on clinical rotations
- Patient-centered care approach
Johnson & Wales University-Providence
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 16-month program duration.
- Hybrid learning model.
- Scholarships up to $12,000.
- 3.0 GPA requirement.
- Clinical rotations included.
- Small cohort sizes.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Patient-centered care focus.
Providence College
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 22 nursing and health science courses
- 76 total credits required
- Nine clinical experiences included
- Spanish Minor for Health Professions available
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- Clinical partnerships with top hospitals
- Focus on critical thinking and technical skills
- Experienced, cross-disciplinary faculty
Rhode Island College
- Bachelor's - Nursing BSN
Campus Based - Website
- Nationally recognized BSN program.
- Hands-on clinical placements.
- State-of-the-art learning facilities.
- Covers diverse nursing topics.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Prepares for high-demand careers.
- Rigorous academic foundation.
- Experiential learning opportunities.
Warwick, RI
Community College of Rhode Island
- Associate - Associate Degree Nurse Program
Campus Based - Website
- 94% NCLEX pass rate
- Campus-based program
- Affordable tuition options
- Free for RI high school grads
- Prepares for RN licensure
- Direct care focus
- Leadership and management training
- Diverse healthcare settings