Best Nursing Schools in Utah
Beyond its breathtaking beauty and unique historical communities, Utah is also a state with immense opportunities for students looking for a new career in nursing. Within the next ten years, Utah is expecting a 20% increase in nursing positions — the highest amount in nearly any other state. If you’ve been considering making the change to become an RN or NP, there couldn’t be a better time to do so. The guide below will brief you on the types of nursing degree programs available in Utah, and where you can locate them.
2026 Best Nursing Schools in Utah
Choosing the right nursing program is a crucial step towards a successful nursing career. To help aspiring nurses in Utah, RegisteredNursing.org has compiled the Best Nursing Schools in Utah rankings based on NCLEX pass rates. These rankings consider each school's NCLEX pass rates, providing valuable insights for prospective students. For more information about our methodology, visit https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/
Yearly Pass Rate Trends (Statewide)
Utah's overall NCLEX pass rates show slight fluctuations over the past three years. The number of nursing graduates has seen a steady increase during this period.
- 2022: 77.94% pass rate (2888 students)
- 2023: 86.74% pass rate (3161 students)
- 2024: 86.18% pass rate (3647 students)
BSN vs ADN Pass Rate Comparison
ADN programs demonstrate a higher average pass rate compared to BSN programs in Utah.
- BSN: 83.22% pass rate (2074 students)
- ADN: 89.79% pass rate (1489 students)
Top Performing Schools
These top 3 schools in Utah have consistently high NCLEX pass rates.
- Brigham Young University (BYU): 95.78% pass rate (379 students)
- Arizona College of Nursing-Salt Lake City: 93.94% pass rate (99 students)
- Western Governors University (WGU): 93.75% pass rate (160 students)
Pass Rate by Program Size
Medium-sized programs show the highest NCLEX pass rates, followed by small programs. Large programs have the lowest pass rates, likely due to their larger student populations and diverse learning needs.
- Small (<50 students/year): 88.89% pass rate
- Medium (50-100 students/year): 93.24% pass rate
- Large (>100 students/year): 84.89% pass rate
Consistently High Performing Schools
These nursing schools in Utah have maintained high NCLEX pass rates (above 90%) for at least two years, indicating program quality.
- Brigham Young University (BYU): 95.78% pass rate (379 students, 3 years of data)
- Arizona College of Nursing-Salt Lake City: 93.94% pass rate (99 students, 2 years of data)
- Western Governors University (WGU): 93.75% pass rate (160 students, 3 years of data)
Brigham Young University
Provo, UT - Private 4-year - byu.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
BYU's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program offers an exceptional educational pathway with an impressive NCLEX pass rate consistently above 96% in recent years. The campus-based program, accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, provides comprehensive nursing training with a distinctive global health perspective. Students benefit from hands-on healthcare experiences and international practicum opportunities. While specific entrance exam requirements are not detailed, the program maintains rigorous academic standards. Located in Provo, the program prepares students thoroughly for the NCLEX-RN exam, emphasizing both technical nursing skills and a service-oriented approach. Its affiliation with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints adds a unique ethical dimension to the nursing curriculum.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Eligible for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Campus-based program.
- Focus on global health.
- Hands-on healthcare experience.
Western Governors University
Salt Lake City, UT - Private 4-year - wgu.edu
Bachelor's - Nursing (Prelicensure) – B.S.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Western Governors University's Prelicensure Nursing Bachelor's program offers an innovative hybrid pathway to becoming a registered nurse. With an impressive NCLEX pass rate consistently above 91% (peaking at 96.36% in 2024), the program combines robust online coursework with hands-on clinical experiences. Students engage in two intensive Learning Labs and seven comprehensive clinical rotations across 24 states. The program requires a substantial 30-hour weekly study commitment and is designed for flexibility, requiring no previous college experience. Notably military-friendly, the program costs $8,755 per six-month term and prepares graduates through virtual simulations and real-world clinical training. Background checks and immunization documentation are mandatory, ensuring students meet professional healthcare standards before entering clinical settings.
- Hybrid online and in-person program
- $8,755 per six-month term
- Available in 24 states
- Two Learning Labs and seven clinical rotations
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- 4-year standard completion time
- Requires 30 hours/week study commitment
- Background check and immunization requirements
- No previous college experience needed
Arizona College of Nursing-Salt Lake City
Murray, UT - Private 4-year - arizonacollege.edu
Bachelor's - 3-Year BSN Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
Arizona College of Nursing in Salt Lake City delivers a comprehensive 3-Year BSN Program with exceptional academic advantages. Located in Murray, the program boasts a remarkable 100% NCLEX pass rate in 2023 and a strong 92.21% pass rate in 2024, demonstrating consistent student success. Uniquely structured without prerequisite coursework, students can rapidly enter nursing education. The CCNE-accredited curriculum emphasizes hands-on clinical experiences and evening general education classes, accommodating diverse student schedules. With scholarship opportunities up to $5,000 and a military-friendly approach, the program attracts motivated aspiring nurses. Students benefit from academic support, comprehensive lab training, and direct preparation for the NCLEX-RN examination, positioning graduates competitively in Utah's healthcare workforce.
- No prerequisite coursework.
- Evening general education classes.
- Hands-on labs and clinical experience.
- CCNE-accredited program.
- Up to $5,000 scholarships available.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- 3-year program duration.
- Located in Murray, UT.
- No waitlist to start.
- Academic support and tutoring.
Southern Utah University
Cedar City, UT - Public 4-Year - suu.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Southern Utah University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing presents an intensive 4-semester prelicensure program designed to launch nursing careers with exceptional preparation. Students benefit from comprehensive clinical experiences across Utah's healthcare settings, gaining exposure to acute care, pediatrics, and community health environments. With a consistently impressive NCLEX pass rate hovering around 92-95%, the program demonstrates strong academic rigor. ACT or SAT entrance exams are required, and applicants must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA. CCNE-accredited, the curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning through skills labs and diverse clinical rotations. Prospective students can start in fall or spring, with flexible scheduling options including potential night and weekend classes. The program's holistic approach prepares graduates for immediate RN licensure and future advanced nursing education pathways.
- 4-semester program
- Full-time, face-to-face
- Hands-on skills lab
- Diverse clinical experiences
- CCNE accredited
- High NCLEX pass rate
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Prerequisite courses needed
- Fall or spring start
- No summers required
Utah State University
Logan, UT - Public 4-Year - usu.edu
Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Utah State University's Associate of Applied Science in Nursing program delivers a comprehensive two-year pathway to becoming a Registered Nurse. With consistent NCLEX pass rates ranging from 82% to 100% across recent years, the program stands out for its rigorous academic preparation. Students benefit from ACEN accreditation and Utah State Board approval, ensuring high-quality education. The program uniquely requires current LPN licensure and maintains a competitive B- minimum grade standard. Clinical experiences span diverse healthcare environments, providing students with robust hands-on learning opportunities. Military-friendly and emphasizing practical skills, this program prepares students for dynamic nursing careers through intensive theoretical and practical training.
- Two-year program
- Campus-based learning
- Prepares for RN licensure
- Competitive admission
- Requires Utah LPN license
- B- minimum grade required
- ACEN accredited
- Utah State Board approved
- Hands-on clinical experiences
- Diverse healthcare settings
Utah Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
One of the advantages of nursing education in Utah is the variety of degree options available to suit your goals and background. Many students begin with entry-level pathways such as an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), or a nursing diploma. These programs are often more affordable, have fewer admissions requirements, and can be completed in a shorter amount of time.
Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs
ADNs, BSNs, and nursing diplomas are excellent entry points for individuals with no prior nursing experience. But what sets them apart, and are there alternative pathways? For the quickest route, a nursing diploma or an ADN typically takes 1–2 years, while a BSN requires about four years to complete. If you're currently working as an LPN, you might consider an LPN to RN bridge program, which allows you to use your practical nursing experience to expedite earning an ADN or BSN. This flexibility helps align your education with your career goals.
Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Utah 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 Utah.
Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs
As you explore nursing programs, you'll likely encounter three types of bachelor’s-level options: RN to BSN, traditional BSN, and accelerated BSN. If you're new to nursing and haven’t earned a bachelor’s degree before, the traditional BSN program is your best option. However, if you already hold a bachelor's degree in a field other than nursing, you can take advantage of an Accelerated BSN (ABSN) program, which allows you to earn your BSN in a shorter time. For current RNs, the RN to BSN program offers a streamlined path for licensed nurses to earn their BSN more quickly while continuing to work.
Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Utah 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:
Licensed registered nurses in Utah don’t have to commit to a full four years to earn a BSN. A Utah RN to BSN offers a faster path, allowing students to complete their degree in just two years, compared to the traditional four-year BSN program. To enroll, you'll need to have an active RN license and an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN).
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
Even if you've never worked in the nursing field before, it’s never too late to pursue a nursing degree. If you already hold a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing, you can earn your BSN in as little as one year through a Utah ABSN program, instead of the traditional four-year route.
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 Utah:
- Utah Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Utah MSN Program
- Utah Accelerated MSN Program
- Utah RN to MSN Programs
- Utah Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
- Utah DNP Programs
Getting an RN License in Utah
The final step in becoming a registered nurse in Utah is to obtain your RN license. To do this, you must graduate from an accredited nursing program, pass the NCLEX-RN exam, and submit an application to the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing. You will also need to pay the required application fee and fulfill continuing education requirements to maintain your license.
Requirements for RN Licensure in Utah
- Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
- Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
- Application to the Utah Board of Nursing
- Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance
Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?
As you evaluate nursing programs in Utah, it’s essential to ensure that the programs are accredited. In the U.S., RN program accreditation is granted by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Programs that are not accredited by these organizations will not be approved by the Utah Board of Nursing. As a result, graduates from unaccredited programs will not be eligible for licensure.
Cities With Nursing Programs in Utah
List of Nursing Schools in Utah
Cedar City, UT
Southern Utah University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 4-semester program
- Full-time, face-to-face
- Hands-on skills lab
- Diverse clinical experiences
- CCNE accredited
- High NCLEX pass rate
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Prerequisite courses needed
Draper, UT
Joyce University of Nursing and Health Sciences
- Associate - Associate of Science in Nursing
Online Learning - Website
- 20-month program length.
- Hybrid online and in-person learning.
- No prerequisites required.
- 472.5 clinical hours.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- ACEN accredited.
- Flexible online coursework.
- Hands-on clinical experiences.
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online Learning - Website
- 3-year program length.
- 94.31% NCLEX pass rate.
- No prerequisites required.
- Hybrid online and in-person.
- 120 credit hours.
- 517.5 clinical hours.
- Flexible learning options.
- Accredited by CCNE.
Ephraim, UT
Snow College
- Associate - Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN)
Campus Based - Website
- Four semesters in length.
- Campuses in Ephraim and Richfield.
- Live instruction and video conferencing.
- 24 students accepted each semester.
- Competitive admission process.
- Focus on critical thinking.
- Blend of classroom, lab, clinical.
- Applications accepted fall and spring.
Layton, UT
Eagle Gate College-Layton
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning format.
- First year online.
- CCNE accredited.
- Small class sizes.
- Hands-on labs.
- Career support services.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN.
- Flexible for busy adults.
Logan, UT
Utah State University
- Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Two-year program
- Campus-based learning
- Prepares for RN licensure
- Competitive admission
- Requires Utah LPN license
- B- minimum grade required
- ACEN accredited
- Utah State Board approved
Murray, UT
Arizona College of Nursing-Salt Lake City
- Bachelor's - 3-Year BSN Program
Campus Based - Website
- No prerequisite coursework.
- Evening general education classes.
- Hands-on labs and clinical experience.
- CCNE-accredited program.
- Up to $5,000 scholarships available.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- 3-year program duration.
- Located in Murray, UT.
Eagle Gate College-Murray
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- First year online
- Small class sizes
- Experienced instructors
- Career support services
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- High school diploma required
- HESI entrance exam
Ogden, UT
Weber State University
- Associate - Associate of Science Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Four-semester program
- 38 total credit hours
- Eligible for NCLEX-PN after first year
- Eligible for NCLEX-RN upon graduation
- Campus-based learning
- Estimated materials cost $1,500
- Additional fees apply
- Conforms to Utah Nurse Practice Act
- Bachelor's - Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online Learning - Website
- Online program format
- 2 to 3 semesters completion
- Prepares for graduate studies
- Focus on critical thinking
- Research-based patient care
- Open to RNs with associate degrees
- Flexible for working professionals
- Additional costs for agency visits
Orem, UT
Utah Valley University
- Associate - Associate in Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Seamless BSN transition.
- Campus-based learning.
- Focus on evidence-based practice.
- Rigorous, hands-on program.
- Fall and spring admissions.
- Support systems for success.
- Diverse healthcare career paths.
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online Learning - Website
- Online BSN completion program.
- Accredited by ACEN.
- Flexible full-time or part-time.
- Requires RN license for admission.
- Year-round application acceptance.
- Focus on leadership and research.
- Prepares for graduate nursing programs.
- Online courses, no campus visits.
Provo, UT
Brigham Young University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Eligible for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Campus-based program.
- Focus on global health.
- Hands-on healthcare experience.
Provo College
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science In Nursing (BSN) Program
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning format.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- No waitlist for enrollment.
- CCNE accredited program.
- 90.70% NCLEX-RN pass rate.
- Financial aid available.
- Comprehensive clinical training.
- Experienced faculty support.
Saint George, UT
Utah Tech University
- Associate - Nursing, AAS
Campus Based - Website
- Two specialized nursing tracks
- ACEN accredited since 2004
- 64-68 total credit hours
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- Clinical and simulation experiences
- Pathway to RN-BSN program
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Unencumbered license prerequisite
- Associate - Nursing, AAS
Concentration: Paramedic to RN bridge - Campus Based - Website
- Specialized Paramedic to RN path
- ACEN accredited program
- 64-68 total credit hours
- Minimum 3.0 paramedic GPA
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- Unencumbered Paramedic Certification required
- Clinical and simulation experiences
- Pathway to RN-BSN program
- Bachelor's - Pre-licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Full-time program
- Campus-based learning
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Four semesters of coursework
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- Small class sizes
- State-of-the-art facilities
- Emphasis on evidence-based practice
Salt Lake City, UT
Fortis College-Salt Lake City
- Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Financial aid available.
- Career advancement opportunities.
- Flexible learning options.
Nightingale College
- Bachelor's - BSN Program
Online Learning - Website
- Online BSN program
- Flexible 3-year completion
- Hands-on field experiences nationwide
- Virtual simulations and labs
- NCLEX-RN success coaching
- 120 credit hours required
- $645 per semester credit
- Financial aid available
Salt Lake Community College
- Associate - Nursing AAS
Campus Based - Website
- Two-year AAS degree
- Campus-based program
- Prepares for employment
- Hands-on training
- Competitive admission costs
- Located in Salt Lake City
- Comprehensive coursework
- Supportive learning environment
University of Utah
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- High NCLEX pass rate
- State-of-the-art simulation centers
- Interprofessional education
- Accredited by CCNE
- Diverse clinical experiences
- Multiple tracks available
- Focus on leadership
- Evidence-based practice
Western Governors University
- Bachelor's - Nursing (Prelicensure) – B.S.
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid online and in-person program
- $8,755 per six-month term
- Available in 24 states
- Two Learning Labs and seven clinical rotations
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- 4-year standard completion time
- Requires 30 hours/week study commitment
- Background check and immunization requirements
Westminster University
- Bachelor's - Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 4-year undergraduate degree
- Small class sizes
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- Diverse clinical experiences
- Accredited by CCNE
- High NCLEX pass rates
- Faculty mentorship
- Liberal arts foundation
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