Utah Nursing Programs
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.
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
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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
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