Best Nursing Schools in Iowa
As a Midwestern state committed to advancing nursing education, Iowa is actively supporting students in pursuing registered nursing (RN) degrees to meet the healthcare worker shortage. With an anticipated 12% increase in nursing jobs through 2030, Iowa has expanded educational opportunities to meet this demand. The state encourages nurses to attain a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN) or higher, emphasizing that advanced degrees not only lead to career growth but also boost earning potential in Iowa's evolving healthcare landscape.
Jump to:
- Iowa RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
- Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Getting an RN License in Iowa
For RN bridge programs visit:
Cities in Iowa
2025 Best Nursing Schools in Iowa
Finding the best nursing school in Iowa starts with looking at NCLEX-RN pass rates, a key measure of how well a program prepares its students for the nursing profession. At registerednursing.org, we've ranked Iowa's top nursing schools based on these pass rates to help future nurses make informed decisions. Schools with higher pass rates often provide the strong education and support needed to pass the NCLEX-RN, the exam all nurses must take to get their license. Choosing a school with a high pass rate can boost your chances of success on this crucial test. For more details on how we put together these rankings, check out our rankings methodology. NCLEX pass rates play a big role in our rankings because they show how well a school's graduates do on the exam. This is important because passing the NCLEX-RN is a must for anyone looking to start a nursing career. Schools that consistently have high pass rates are likely doing something right in preparing their students. For aspiring nurses, picking a school with a strong track record can make all the difference in launching a successful career.
Marshalltown Community College
Marshalltown, IA - Public 2-Year - mcc.iavalley.edu
Associate - Associate Degree Nursing (ADN)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Marshalltown Community College provides an Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program tailored for future registered nurses, focusing on practical patient care across various clinical environments. With a curriculum rooted in essential sciences such as anatomy and physiology, the program is accredited by the Iowa Board of Nursing, aligning with licensure standards in Iowa and Illinois. Students benefit from a blend of rigorous academic coursework and extensive hands-on training, equipping them for the NCLEX-RN and a rewarding career in nursing. Graduates can expect an average starting salary of $62,571, reflecting the program's commitment to excellence in nursing education.
- Accredited by Iowa Board of Nursing.
- Campus-based program.
- Strong science foundation required.
- Hands-on patient care training.
- Diverse clinical settings experience.
- Prepares for RN licensure.
- Average salary $62,571 for graduates.
- Meets licensure in IA and IL.
University of Iowa
Iowa City, IA - Public 4-Year - uiowa.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Iowa's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is a premier choice for aspiring nurses, offering a rigorous curriculum that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN and beyond. This on-campus program is distinguished by its world-renowned faculty and hands-on clinical experiences, ensuring graduates are ready to excel in the nursing field. As a military-friendly institution with a hospital on campus, it provides a supportive and practical learning environment. Prospective students should note that entrance exams like the ACT or SAT are required for admission, aligning with the program's commitment to academic excellence and professional readiness.
- Full-time, on-campus program.
- Prepares for RN licensure.
- Exceptional clinical experiences.
- Taught by world-renowned faculty.
- National reputation for excellence.
Dordt University
Sioux Center, IA - Private 4-year - dordt.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Dordt University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that stands out for its integration of Christian values with comprehensive nursing education. This campus-based program is designed to equip students with the necessary skills for a successful nursing career through a blend of theoretical knowledge and extensive clinical practice. With a notable 100% NCLEX pass rate, the program emphasizes a concept-based curriculum, servant leadership, and ethical practice across over 570 clinical hours in various healthcare settings. Prospective students need a minimum GPA of 2.67 for admission, reflecting the program's commitment to academic excellence and Christian discipleship in nursing.
- 100% NCLEX pass rate.
- Christian-centered nursing education.
- Hands-on clinical experiences.
- Concept-based curriculum.
- Low instructor-to-student ratio.
- Over 570 clinical hours.
- State-of-the-art simulation labs.
- Diverse healthcare settings.
- Servant leadership focus.
- Ethical practice emphasis.
Saint Ambrose University
Davenport, IA - Private 4-year - sau.edu
Bachelor's - LPN to BSN
Online Learning - Visit Website
Saint Ambrose University offers an online LPN to BSN program designed for licensed practical nurses aiming to transition into bachelor's-level nursing roles. This program stands out for its flexibility, catering to working professionals by allowing them to study online while maintaining their employment. It's available to students in select states and requires an active LPN license for admission. The curriculum focuses on enhancing practical nursing skills and leadership abilities, preparing graduates for advanced roles in healthcare. With rolling admissions, students can apply year-round, though priority deadlines on December 1 for fall and July 1 for spring are encouraged for early consideration.
- Online LPN to BSN program
- Flexible for working professionals
- Approved in select states
- Requires active LPN license
- Rolling admissions until cohort filled
- Priority deadlines: Dec 1, Jul 1
- Clinical placements in approved states
- Comprehensive nursing education
- Designed for career advancement
- Balances work and study
Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Visit Website
The RN to BSN program at Saint Ambrose University is an online pathway for registered nurses seeking to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Tailored for the working RN, this program offers the flexibility to balance studies with professional and personal life, available to residents of approved states. It emphasizes a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, aiming to prepare nurses for leadership positions in the healthcare sector. The program features rolling admissions, allowing nurses to start at their convenience, with priority deadlines to facilitate early planning. No specific entrance exam is mentioned, making it accessible for eligible RNs ready to advance their careers.
- Online RN to BSN program
- Flexible for working professionals
- Approved in select states
- Rolling admissions
- Priority deadlines available
- Designed for RN career advancement
- Balances theory and practice
- Leadership preparation focus
- No concentration specified
- State licensure considerations apply
Mercy College of Health Sciences
Des Moines, IA - Private 4-year - mchs.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Mercy College of Health Sciences in Des Moines, IA, provides a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that efficiently prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam, achievable in three years. The program stands out with an 86.7% NCLEX pass rate and a remarkable 100% job placement rate within a year post-graduation. Early clinical rotations from the first semester ensure students gain practical experience swiftly. Admission prerequisites include a 2.7 GPA in prerequisite courses and a minimum 63% score on the ATI TEAS test. LPNs benefit from receiving four academic credits towards their BSN. The curriculum encompasses a broad range of nursing disciplines, totaling 67 major credits, and is accredited by CCNE and approved by the Iowa Board of Nursing.
- NCLEX pass rate 86.7%
- 100% job placement rate
- 67 major credits
- Clinical hours start semester 1
- LPNs get four credits
- GPA 2.7 required
- ATI TEAS test 63% minimum
- Three years to complete
- Campus-based program
- Accredited by CCNE
Southwestern Community College
Creston, IA - Public 2-Year - swcciowa.edu
Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Southwestern Community College in Creston, IA, provides an Associate Degree Nursing program that equips students with essential nursing skills through a blend of theoretical coursework and practical clinical experiences. This program stands out for its impressive NCLEX-RN pass rates, with graduates achieving a 90% success rate, showcasing the program's effectiveness in preparing students for the nursing profession. Focused on the nursing process and the health-illness continuum, the curriculum is designed to foster professional practice readiness. Admission prerequisites include completion of a practical nursing program and passing the PN licensure exam. Financial support options like the Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship make this program an accessible choice for aspiring nurses.
- Campus-based program
- High NCLEX pass rates
- Combines classroom and clinical learning
- Focus on nursing process
- Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship eligible
- Requires PN licensure for admission
- Prepares for LPN and RN roles
- Affordable path to nursing career
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Focus on health-illness continuum
Clarke University
Dubuque, IA - Private 4-year - clarke.edu
Bachelor's - Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Clarke University, located in Dubuque, IA, provides a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that stands out for its holistic approach to nursing education. This program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful nursing career, emphasizing care for individuals, families, and communities across all stages of life. With access to advanced simulation labs and a cadaver lab, students gain invaluable hands-on experience. The curriculum includes comprehensive training in community health, pharmacology, and care for childbearing families, among other critical areas. Small clinical groups ensure personalized mentorship, contributing to the program's high NCLEX-RN pass rates and job placement success. Entrance exams such as ACT or SAT are required for admission.
- Holistic nursing approach
- State-of-the-art simulation lab
- Cadaver lab access
- Small clinical groups
- High job placement rates
- NCLEX-RN preparation
- Community health focus
- Childbearing families care
- Pharmacology principles
- Hands-on clinical experience
Eastern Iowa Community College District
Davenport, IA - Public 2-Year - eicc.edu
Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Eastern Iowa Community College District provides a comprehensive Associate Degree Nursing program, ideal for those aiming to enter the nursing field swiftly. This program stands out for its practical approach, offering extensive clinical experiences alongside theoretical knowledge to ensure readiness for the NCLEX-RN exam. Students have the flexibility to choose between a Practical Nursing Diploma or an Associate Degree, with both paths leading to promising healthcare careers. Accredited by the Iowa Board of Nursing, the program also benefits from financial support options such as Iowa's Last-Dollar Scholarship, making nursing education more accessible. With multiple campus locations, it caters to a wide range of students seeking quality nursing education.
- Accredited by Iowa Board of Nursing.
- Prepares for NCLEX exam.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Practical Nursing Diploma option.
- Associate Degree Nursing option.
- Financial aid available.
- Iowa's Last-Dollar Scholarship eligible.
- Strong clinical component.
- Career-focused curriculum.
- Multiple campus locations.
Iowa Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
If you are interested in a registered nursing career, Iowa offers several entry-level degree points to help you enter the world of nursing. Most students opt to start with an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing. Read on to learn more about each degree level to see if it's the right fit for you.
Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs
The ADN is the quickest degree pathway to registered nursing practice in Iowa, taking just 2 years to complete. Students may also opt for an RN diploma, typically offered through specialty nursing schools and hospitals, taking 1-2 years to complete. The difference between an ADN and an RN diploma is that the ADN includes other core college courses, while the diploma is focused strictly on basic nursing education. A good option for current Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) is the LPN to RN bridge program, which can result in either an ADN or a BSN. These affordable pathways lead to entry-level careers in registered nursing, but remember to choose a properly accredited program.
Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Iowa 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 Iowa.
Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs
The traditional four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is considered the gold standard of nursing degrees. It is commonly offered online, on-campus, and in hybrid formats at colleges and universities across Iowa. Many healthcare employers in the state prefer BSN-educated nurses for entry-level RN employment. With both full-time and part-time options available, BSN programs consist of core education courses and nursing-specific courses. Like other RN programs, required clinical training hours will need to be completed in person, even if you opt for an online or hybrid BSN program.
Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Iowa 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
Those who already have an ADN or nursing diploma and want to advance to a bachelor's degree may be interested in an Iowa RN to BSN bridge pathway. These programs can be taken full-time or part-time, allowing nurses to continue working if they wish, and are available both on-campus and online. Clinical hours, however, must be completed in person.
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
This program is designed for students who already hold a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing subject. An ideal way to switch careers, accelerated BSN programs are intensive, and can be completed in as little as 12 months of full-time study. Iowa ABSN programs can be completed online, but some campus visits may be required, and students will still need to complete their clinical hours in person.
Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
For Iowans looking to advance their nursing education into the graduate realm, there are also many options. Whether you are looking for a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program, a bridge program to enter advanced practice, or even a doctorate degree such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), there's a program for you. Remember most of these programs require that you already hold a minimum of a BSN or MSN, hold an active and unencumbered RN license, and meet all the entry requirements specific to each program.
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 Iowa:
- Iowa Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Iowa MSN Program
- Iowa RN to MSN Programs
- Iowa Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
- Iowa DNP Programs
Getting an RN License in Iowa
In Iowa, the RN licensing process begins with completing an accredited nursing program (see below) and passing the NCLEX-RN exam, a nationally standardized test assessing critical entry-level nursing skills. After passing the NCLEX-RN, candidates must apply for licensure with the Iowa Board of Nursing and meet continuing education (CE) requirements for renewal.
Requirements for RN Licensure in Iowa
- Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
- Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
- Application to the Iowa Board of Nursing
- Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance
Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?
RN program accreditation is a formal review process that ensures a nursing school or program meets established quality standards. In the United States, two primary organizations accredit nursing programs: the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). In Iowa, nursing programs commonly seek accreditation from one or both of these agencies to demonstrate that their education standards meet national benchmarks. It is always recommended for students to choose an accredited RN program at any level to ensure they will be eligible for licensure, further education (if desired), and gainful employment.
List of Nursing Schools in Iowa
If you're looking to start or advance your nursing career in Iowa, you're in the right place. Below is a list of nursing schools across the state, offering a variety of programs to fit your goals. Each school's location, key program features, and a direct link to more information are provided. Whether you're interested in an associate degree, bachelor's, or beyond, Iowa's nursing schools have options to help you succeed in this rewarding field.
Ames, IA
Iowa State University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning format
- Two semesters completion
- Focus on research and leadership
- ACEN accredited
- Minimum 2.5 GPA required
- RN licensure prerequisite
- Flexible for working nurses
- Prepares for diverse healthcare roles
Cedar Falls, IA
University of Northern Iowa
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 412.5 clinical training hours
- 150-hour clinical residency
- Innovative simulation facilities
- Practice-based learning approach
- Multiple clinical care settings
- Hands-on skills laboratory
- Standardized patient examinations
- Competency-based education
Cedar Rapids, IA
Coe College
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 1:1 clinical practice
- Small class sizes
- Doctoral degree faculty
- Diverse clinical experiences
- ATI review course
- High NCLEX pass rates
- Interactive classrooms
- Study abroad opportunities
Kirkwood Community College
- Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- 96% NCLEX-RN pass rate.
- Estimated cost $29,572.10.
- Financial aid available.
- Requires CNA certificate.
- Prepares for RN licensure.
- Comprehensive coursework.
Mount Mercy University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program type
- Graduate in two years
- Competitive admission
- Early admission option
- Seamless MSN transition
- Personalized curriculum plans
- Competitive tuition
- Scholarships available
Council Bluffs, IA
Iowa Western Community College
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Associate of Applied Science degree
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Full-time and part-time options
- Evening program available
- High job placement rates
- Transfer opportunities to four-year schools
- Clinical study groups
Creston, IA
Southwestern Community College
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- High NCLEX pass rates
- Combines classroom and clinical learning
- Focus on nursing process
- Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship eligible
- Requires PN licensure for admission
- Prepares for LPN and RN roles
- Affordable path to nursing career
Davenport, IA
Eastern Iowa Community College District
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accredited by Iowa Board of Nursing.
- Prepares for NCLEX exam.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Practical Nursing Diploma option.
- Associate Degree Nursing option.
- Financial aid available.
- Iowa's Last-Dollar Scholarship eligible.
- Strong clinical component.
Saint Ambrose University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 124 credits total
- On campus or online
- 33 gen ed credits
- 64 nursing credits
- 27 elective credits
- Group clinicals and simulations
- One-on-one preceptorship
- Capstone project
- Bachelor's - LPN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Online LPN to BSN program
- Flexible for working professionals
- Approved in select states
- Requires active LPN license
- Rolling admissions until cohort filled
- Priority deadlines: Dec 1, Jul 1
- Clinical placements in approved states
- Comprehensive nursing education
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Online RN to BSN program
- Flexible for working professionals
- Approved in select states
- Rolling admissions
- Priority deadlines available
- Designed for RN career advancement
- Balances theory and practice
- Leadership preparation focus
Des Moines, IA
Drake University
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Prepares for NCLEX.
- Pending ACEN accreditation.
- Iowa Board of Nursing approved.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Experienced faculty.
- Fast track to nursing.
- Focus on compassionate care.
Grand View University
- Bachelor's - Nursing BSN
Campus Based - Website
- State-of-the-art simulation center
- Small class sizes
- Focus on caring ethic
- Qualifies for RN licensure exam
- Minimum GPA 3.0 required
- ATI TEAS test proficiency needed
- Completion of specific courses required
- Develops health care leaders
Mercy College of Health Sciences
- Associate - Associate of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Two-year program duration.
- Flexible evening and weekend classes.
- 100% job placement rate.
- Median wage $75,330.
- Accredited by ACEN.
- Approved by Iowa Board of Nursing.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation.
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- NCLEX pass rate 86.7%
- 100% job placement rate
- 67 major credits
- Clinical hours start semester 1
- LPNs get four credits
- GPA 2.7 required
- ATI TEAS test 63% minimum
- Three years to complete
Dubuque, IA
Clarke University
- Bachelor's - Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Holistic nursing approach
- State-of-the-art simulation lab
- Cadaver lab access
- Small clinical groups
- High job placement rates
- NCLEX-RN preparation
- Community health focus
- Childbearing families care
Loras College
- Bachelor's - 3+1 Nursing BA/BS+BSN
Campus Based - Website
- Earn two degrees in four years.
- Accelerated BSN pathway.
- All coursework on Loras campus.
- 3.0 GPA prerequisite requirement.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- 90 college credits required.
- Partnership with Mercy College.
- No need to leave Dubuque area.
University of Dubuque
- Bachelor's - BS: Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 100% NCLEX RN pass rate
- Committed clinical partners
- Extensive lab simulation experiences
- 1:1 precepted internship
- CCNE accredited program
- Active Student Nurses Association
- Multiple clinical settings
- Well-qualified nursing faculty
Fort Dodge, IA
Iowa Central Community College
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- 720 clinical hours
- Spring and fall starts
- Scholarships available
- Meets Iowa core standards
- Practical Nursing option
- Diverse healthcare settings
- Affordable education path
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Concentration: Hospital - Campus Based - Website
- 720 clinical hours
- Campus-based program
- Practical Nursing diploma option
- Scholarships available
- Hospital concentration
- Requires Iowa Central acceptance
- Hands-on healthcare experience
- Affordable nursing path
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Concentration: Pediatric - Campus Based - Website
- Pediatric concentration available.
- 720 clinical hours required.
- Scholarship opportunities offered.
- Campus-based program.
- Prepares for RN licensure.
- Diverse healthcare settings.
- Must apply to college first.
- Focus on pediatric nursing.
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Concentration: Physician - Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- 720 clinical hours
- Physician concentration
- Scholarships available
- Spring and fall starts
- RN career pathway
- Diverse healthcare settings
- Admission to college first
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Concentration: Rehabilitation - Campus Based - Website
- Focus on Rehabilitation
- 720 clinical hours
- Scholarships available
- Accepts LPNs for advanced standing
- Combines classroom and clinical work
- Prepares for RN licensure
- Multiple healthcare settings
- Requires college acceptance first
Iowa City, IA
University of Iowa
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Full-time, on-campus program.
- Prepares for RN licensure.
- Exceptional clinical experiences.
- Taught by world-renowned faculty.
- National reputation for excellence.
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Online program flexibility.
- Total tuition $17,088.
- RN license required.
- Prerequisite courses needed.
- Fall and spring starts.
- Enhances patient care skills.
- Prepares for leadership roles.
- Accessible to working nurses.
Iowa Falls, IA
Ellsworth Community College
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 2-year AAS degree.
- Campus-based program.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Accredited by Iowa Board.
- Focus on patient care.
- Prepares for RN licensure.
- Diverse clinical settings.
- Strong science foundation.
Marshalltown, IA
Marshalltown Community College
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing (ADN)
Campus Based - Website
- Accredited by Iowa Board of Nursing.
- Campus-based program.
- Strong science foundation required.
- Hands-on patient care training.
- Diverse clinical settings experience.
- Prepares for RN licensure.
- Average salary $62,571 for graduates.
- Meets licensure in IA and IL.
Orange City, IA
Northwestern College
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 700+ clinical hours
- 100% board pass rate
- Accredited by CCNE
- Early acceptance available
- Holistic health focus
- Diverse clinical settings
- Freshman seminar included
- Senior capstone project
Oskaloosa, IA
William Penn University
- Bachelor's - 4-Year Pre-licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 4-year BSN program
- Campus-based learning
- TEAS score requirement: 60
- CNA certification required
- Cumulative GPA: 2.75
- Early admission option
- ACT score: 23 for early admission
- High school GPA: 3.0 for early admission
Sheldon, IA
Northwest Iowa Community College
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- One-year program duration.
- Campus-based with online general education.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- 100% job placement rate.
- Includes clinical preceptorship.
- Financial aid available.
- Future Ready Iowa Scholarship eligible.
- Requires current LPN licensure.
Sioux Center, IA
Dordt University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 100% NCLEX pass rate.
- Christian-centered nursing education.
- Hands-on clinical experiences.
- Concept-based curriculum.
- Low instructor-to-student ratio.
- Over 570 clinical hours.
- State-of-the-art simulation labs.
- Diverse healthcare settings.
Sioux City, IA
Morningside University
- Bachelor's - Nursing (BSN)
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- High NCLEX pass rate
- State-of-the-art simulation center
- Diverse clinical experiences
- Requires 2.75 GPA for admission
- Background check required
- Comprehensive curriculum
- Hands-on learning approach
Storm Lake, IA
Buena Vista University
- Bachelor's - 3+1 Nursing BA/BS+BSN Program
Campus Based - Website
- Accelerated 4-year BSN pathway
- Campus-based clinical training
- Two degrees upon completion
- Rigorous science prerequisites
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
Waterloo, IA
Hawkeye Community College
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 2-year program length
- 480 clinical hours
- 208 lab hours
- 95% NCLEX pass rate
- State-of-the-art simulation center
- Future Ready Iowa Scholarship eligible
- Daytime classes
- Face-to-face course format
West Burlington, IA
Southeastern Community College
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing - AAS
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based learning
- Focus on patient care
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Financial aid options
- High school diploma required
- Prepares for healthcare careers
- Combines theory and practice
- Fast track to nursing