As you may know, the United States is facing a rapidly growing nursing shortage. This shortage has presented challenges for the healthcare field, but it also creates a promising opportunity for individuals in Kentucky who are interested in pursuing a nursing career. Kentucky, in particular, is projected to experience a projected 9% growth in nursing positions over the next decade. If you're wondering how to begin this rewarding journey, explore the sections below for more information.
Jump to:
- Kentucky RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
- Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Getting an RN License in Kentucky
For RN bridge programs visit:
Cities in Kentucky
Best RN Programs in Kentucky
Selecting the best nursing school in Kentucky can be difficult. To make the process easier first look for a school that supports students towards licensure and beyond. A great way to measure this is through NCLEX-RN "pass rates." We have ranked the top 20 nursing schools in Kentucky by analyzing current and historical NCLEX-RN "pass rates", meaning the percentage of graduates who pass the exam, out of the 49 RN programs in the state. Programs reviewed include schools that offer an Associate in Nursing (ADN/ASN), BSN, or Direct-Entry MSN Degree.
For more information on our top nursing school rankings, see our Methodology Page (https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/).
Southcentral Kentucky Community & Technical College
Score: 100.00
Located in beautiful Glasgow, Kentucky, Southcentral Kentucky Community & Technical College strives to meet the demand of the nursing profession by providing more highly qualified graduates to the workforce. They offer an Academic Career Mobility (RN) degree where students take courses in Human Anatomy & Physiology, Nursing Care, and more. SKYCTC nurses are an excellent addition to the healthcare team.
Program Details
- Programs: Associate in Nursing
- Phone: (270) 651-5673
Southcentral Kentucky Community & Technical College - Bowling Green
Score: 99.19
Southcentral Kentucky Community & Technical College's Bowling Green campus offers a 65 total-credit Academic Career Mobility (RN) degree program. The pathway includes a curriculum that spans general education and specialty nursing courses, with courses in writing, math, and nursing care.
Program Details
- Programs: BSN
- Phone: (270) 901-1000
Northern Kentucky University
Score: 96.67
Northern Kentucky University's Highland Heights campus is where nursing students can obtain a highly sought after BSN degree. With several pathways, including a traditional 4-year BSN and an Accelerated BSN option, students are prepared to provide quality patient care in a variety of settings. Experiential learning is enhanced through NKU's healthcare simulation center.
Program Details
- Programs: BSN
- Phone: (859) 572-5220
University of Kentucky
Score: 96.49
In the heart of Lexington, the University of Kentucky is home to a widely acclaimed nursing department. Whether they choose the traditional BSN, Accelerated BSN, or RN to BSN bridge program, nursing students are prepared through knowledge-based nursing practice with an emphasis on clear and effective communication. With a 1-to-8 faculty to student ratio for undergrad clinical groups, enrollees get the benefit of small class sizes and more personal attention.
Program Details
- Programs: BSN
- Phone: (859) 323-5108
Owensboro Community and Technical College
Score: 94.02
Owensboro Community and Technical College shows students and professionals that nursing is one of the most necessary and vital professions in today's workforce. OCTC's ADN program utilizes numerous learning methods, including lectures, live video streaming, simulation labs, and more to ensure student success. Students are accepted into the program annually in the Fall semester.
Program Details
- Programs: Associate in Nursing
- Phone: (270) 686-4400
Maysville Community & Technical College - Licking Valley Campus
Score: 93.99
The Licking Valley campus of Maysville Community & Technical College offers an exceptional associate's degree (ADN) pathway to registered nursing. The 64 total-credit program combines general education and nursing courses to prepare students for gainful RN employment. Required courses include Medical/Surgical Nursing, Maternal Newborn Nursing, Behavioral Health Nursing, and more.
Program Details
- Programs: Associate in Nursing
- Phone: (859) 234-8626
Midway University - Midway
Score: 93.97
Midway University is home to a renowned ADN program for entry into registered nursing practice. The program's dual focus revolves around both classroom theory as well as supervised clinical experiences. With a 17:1 student to faculty ratio, personal attention and student support is at the forefront of the program.
Program Details
- Programs: Associate in Nursing, BSN
- Phone: (800) 952-4122
University of Louisville - Owensboro
Score: 93.18
The BSN offering through the University of Louisville's School of Nursing in Owensboro is a dynamic program that's both theoretical and practical in nature. The program strives to address the complex healthcare needs of diverse populations through education, research, scholarship and service. Graduates are able to demonstrate excellence in nursing practice and leadership, are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam, and have a solid educational foundation on which they can continue on to master's programs and beyond.
Program Details
- Programs: BSN
- Phone: (270) 688-1051
Jefferson Community & Technical College - Louisville
Score: 93.11
Jefferson Community & Technical College's downtown Louisville campus offers a popular ADN pathway for prospective nurses. Students can complete the degree in just 4 semesters, including general ed and hands-on practice experience.
Program Details
- Programs: Associate in Nursing
- Phone: (502) 213-5333
Maysville Community & Technical College
Score: 92.67
Maysville Community & Technical College is known for leading nursing students to highly successful interdisciplinary collaboration within the healthcare team. Located on the northern state line, Maysville nursing graduates are an important part of many communities.
Program Details
- Programs: Associate in Nursing
- Phone: (606) 759-7141
Murray State University - Murray
Score: 92.11
Murray State University provides several nursing pathways to students, including an excellent traditional 4-year BSN program. Clinical experiences take place across the state and students can even complete a pediatric rotation at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis.
Program Details
- Programs: BSN
- Phone: (800) 272-4678
Berea College
Score: 92.08
Berea College climbs to the top of the list in Kentucky with its excellent BSN program offering. Enrolled students get the benefits of two nursing simulation labs, as well as the guidance and expertise of experienced faculty. The curriculum includes required courses such as Pharmacology, Pediatric Nursing, Research in Nursing, and many more, as well as collateral courses in Microbiology, General Psychology, and others.
Program Details
- Programs: BSN
- Phone: (859) 985-3000
Lindsey Wilson College
Score: 91.79
Columbia's Lindsey Wilson College offers a pre-licensure BSN program designed to train the next generation of registered nurses. The curriculum includes courses such as Nursing Research, Adult Health Nursing, and Foundations of Professional Practice to give students the knowledge and skills needed to become successful RNs.
Program Details
- Programs: BSN
- Phone: (270) 384-2126
Eastern Kentucky University
Score: 89.96
Eastern Kentucky University is located just outside of Lexington, Kentucky, offering students numerous BSN degree options to meet their goals. With a traditional BSN option, a 2nd degree BSN option, and an RN to BSN bridge pathway, students are able to choose the perfect program. These programs emphasize patient-centered care, utilizing small clinical groups and caring faculty to help students succeed.
Program Details
- Programs: BSN
- Phone: (859) 622-1000
Hopkinsville Community College
Score: 89.93
Hopkinsville Community College takes pride in doing its part to meet the need for healthcare professionals in the state of Kentucky through it's 2-year ADN program. With a curriculum that includes courses in pediatrics, medical-surgical, and other specialized nursing areas, HCC students are well prepared to meet the demands of the NCLEX-RN and the professional calling that follows.
Program Details
- Programs: Associate in Nursing
- Phone: (270) 707-3700
West Kentucky Community and Technical College
Score: 89.43
West Kentucky Community and Technical College is known to mold nursing graduates toward an innovative and effective model of patient advocacy, with a focus on health teaching and individual counseling for patients who are ill, injured or infirm.
Program Details
- Programs: Associate in Nursing
- Phone: (270) 554-9200
Morehead State University
Score: 88.72
Morehead State University offers several pathways to registered nurse licensure, including an ADN, a pre-licensure BSN, and more. Students enrolled in these selective programs are taught through classroom lectures as well as state-of-the-art simulation labs which house computerized mannequins for a real-world experience.
Program Details
- Programs: Associate in Nursing, BSN
- Phone: (606) 783-2221
Galen College of Nursing - Louisville
Score: 88.59
Galen College of Nursing's Louisville campus offers a 3-year, 36-month full-time BSN program for motivated students. With no pre-requisites and 4 start times per year, prospective students are able to dive into their studies sooner. The curriculum includes courses in Fundamentals of Nutrition, Communication and Teamwork, and much more.
Program Details
- Programs: Associate in Nursing
- Phone: (502) 410-6200
Somerset Community College - Laurel Campus
Score: 88.55
Somerset Community College's Laurel Campus in London is serving the community by preparing and training future RNs through its ADN degree program. The curriculum is delivered in a day-time format, consisting of general ed and nursing courses in both classroom and clinical environments. Laurel Campus ADN students are admitted in the spring semester each year.
Program Details
- Programs: Associate in Nursing
- Phone: (606) 877-1421
Bluegrass Community and Technical College - Lawrenceburg
Score: 88.26
Bluegrass Community and Technical College - Lawrenceburg makes rigorous study accessible to students in outlying communities through their various campuses. Faculty leads pre-licensure nurses through the model of observation, assessment, and nurse diagnosis to improve patient outcomes.
Program Details
- Programs: Associate in Nursing
- Phone: (859) 246-6470
Kentucky Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
If you’re set on a career as an RN, there are three options for getting licensed — an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Below are the subtle differences that set them apart.
Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs
In Kentucky, one of the quickest paths to becoming a registered nurse is through an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), which usually takes about two years to complete. Another option is the RN diploma, offered by select nursing schools or hospitals, which can often be finished in 1-2 years and focuses on essential nursing skills. Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) in Kentucky also have the option to advance through an LPN to RN bridge program, allowing them to earn either an ADN or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). These affordable pathways prepare students for entry-level nursing roles, but it's crucial to select an accredited program to ensure your degree is valid and widely accepted.
Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Kentucky 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 Kentucky.
Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs
In addition to an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or nursing diploma, many students choose to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). These four-year degrees are ideal for aspiring career nurses who seek comprehensive training and want to stand out to potential employers—without the commitment of a graduate degree. Beyond the traditional four-year route, there are also flexible options like the RN to BSN pathway and Accelerated BSN programs, which allow students to achieve a BSN in less time.
Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Kentucky 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
Students who have a nursing license and an associate degree in nursing can take advantage of Kentucky RN to BSN programs. These are typically the most common nursing bridge programs that you’ll find in Kentucky and can be completed in as little as two years.
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
Kentucky ABSN programs are a great option for individuals who have a bachelor’s degree already but are not trained nurses. Enrolling in an ABSN program will allow you to get your BSN in less than half the time than if you enrolled in a traditional BSN program from the very beginning.
Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
ADNs, BSNs, and nursing diplomas are all great options for students with little to no experience as nurses. However, if you’re hoping to eventually begin a career as a nurse practitioner or advanced practice nurse, you’ll need to complete either a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program, or a doctorate degree such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). These degrees will require a BSN or higher to enroll, but like BSN programs, there are lots of bridge programs available to shorten the time to graduation.
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 Kentucky:
- Kentucky Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Kentucky MSN Program
- Kentucky Accelerated MSN Program
- Kentucky RN to MSN Programs
- Kentucky Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
- Kentucky DNP Programs
Getting an RN License in Kentucky
Once you’ve wrapped up your education, it’s time to get licensed as an RN. Getting licensed is required of all nurses who want to practice in Kentucky. The process starts by taking the NCLEX-RN. After you’ve passed the exam, you’ll need to fill out and submit an application to the Kentucky Nursing Board.
Requirements for RN Licensure in Kentucky
- Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
- Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
- Application to the Kentucky Board of Nursing
- Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance
Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?
Possibly the most thing to look for as you look for the perfect RN program is RN program accreditation. When a school is “accredited” it means that it is approved by the Kentucky Board of Nursing, thus, graduating from an accredited school means that you will be able to get licensed. As you apply to nursing schools in Kentucky, make sure that they are accredited by either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Continued List of All RN Programs in Kentucky
Here is a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs.
Ranked | School | Program | Score | Website |
---|---|---|---|---|
21. | Morehead State University - Mt. Sterling Mt Sterling, KY 40353 | Phone: (859) 499-0780 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 88.23 | moreheadstate.edu |
22. | University of Louisville Louisville, KY 40202 | Phone: (502) 852-5825 | Programs: BSN | 87.93 | louisville.edu |
23. | Bellarmine University Louisville, KY 40205 | Phone: (502) 272-8131 | Programs: BSN | 87.46 | bellarmine.edu |
24. | Western Kentucky University - Bowling Green Bowling Green, KY 42101 | Phone: (270) 745-4379 | Programs: Associate in Nursing, BSN | 86.54 | wku.edu |
25. | Elizabethtown Community & Technical College Elizabethtown, KY 42701 | Phone: (270) 769-2371 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 86.41 | elizabethtown.kctcs.edu |
26. | Kentucky Christian University - Grayson Grayson, KY 41143 | Phone: (800) 522-3181 | Programs: BSN | 86.12 | kcu.edu |
27. | Madisonville Community College - Madisonville Madisonville, KY 42431 | Phone: (270) 821-2250 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 85.26 | madisonville.kctcs.edu |
28. | Somerset Community College Somerset, KY 42501 | Phone: (606) 679-8501 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 84.20 | somerset.kctcs.edu |
29. | Union College - Barbourville Barbourville, KY 40906 | Phone: (606) 546-4151 | Programs: BSN | 83.61 | unionky.edu |
30. | Henderson Community College Henderson, KY 42420 | Phone: (270) 827-1867 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 83.34 | henderson.kctcs.edu |
31. | Galen College of Nursing - Hazard Hazard, KY 41701 | Phone: (606) 629-3141 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 82.21 | galencollege.edu |
32. | Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College - Pineville Pineville, KY 40977 | Phone: (606) 589-2145 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 81.59 | southeast.kctcs.edu |
33. | Lincoln Memorial University Middlesboro, KY 40965 | Phone: (423) 869-6556 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 81.52 | lmunet.edu |
34. | Kentucky State University - Frankfort Frankfort, KY 40601 | Phone: (502) 597-6000 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 80.47 | kysu.edu |
35. | Hazard Community and Technical College - Hazard Hazard, KY 41701 | Phone: (606) 436-5721 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 79.91 | hazard.kctcs.edu |
36. | University of Pikeville Pikeville, KY 41501 | Phone: (606) 218-5250 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 79.07 | upike.edu |
37. | Thomas More University Crestview Hills, KY 41017 | Phone: (859) 341-5800 | Programs: BSN | 78.80 | thomasmore.edu |
38. | Campbellsville University - Campbellsville Campbellsville, KY 42718 | Phone: (270) 789-5000 | Programs: Associate in Nursing, BSN | 77.26 | campbellsville.edu |
39. | Ashland Community & Technical College - Ashland Ashland, KY 41101 | Phone: (606) 326-2000 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 76.25 | ashland.kctcs.edu |
40. | Big Sandy Community & Technical College - Prestonsburg Prestonsburg, KY 41653 | Phone: (606) 886-3863 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 74.39 | bigsandy.kctcs.edu |
41. | Gateway Community and Technical College Edgewood, KY 41017 | Phone: (859) 442-4138 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 73.57 | gateway.kctcs.edu |
42. | Beckfield College Florence, KY 41042 | Phone: (859) 371-9393 | Programs: Associate in Nursing, BSN | 73.32 | beckfield.edu |
43. | Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College - Cumberland Cumberland, KY 40823 | Phone: (606) 589-2145 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 68.81 | southeast.kctcs.edu |
44. | Spalding University - Louisville Louisville, KY 40203 | Phone: (502) 585-9911 | Programs: BSN | 66.42 | spalding.edu |
45. | American National University Pikeville, KY 41501 | Phone: (606) 478-7200 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 65.12 | an.edu |
46. | ATA College Louisville, KY 40223 | Phone: (502) 371-8383 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 59.31 | ata.edu |
47. | University of the Cumberlands Williamsburg, KY 40769 | Phone: (877) 713-8767 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 39.93 | ucumberlands.edu |
48. | Hazard Community & Technical College Jackson, KY 41339 | Phone: (606) 436-5721 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | - | hazard.kctcs.edu |
49. | Maysville Community & Technical College - Mt. Sterling Mt Sterling, KY 40353 | Phone: (859) 499-6282 | Programs: LPN to RN | - | maysville.kctcs.edu |
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