Nevada Nursing Schools and Programs of 2024 & 2025
According to the Nevada Health Workforce Research Center, there has been a notable 24% increase in the number of registered nurses (RNs) in the state over the past decade. 
Nevada stands out with some of the nation’s highest average salaries for nurses and commendable National Council Licensure Examination for RNs (NCLEX-RN) pass rates, making it an appealing destination for those considering a career in the field. This comprehensive guide delves into the top nursing programs in Nevada, the process of earning a nursing degree, and the essential licensing steps to practice in the state. Continue reading to gain insights into the finest nursing schools in Nevada.
The Best Nursing Schools in Nevada
Explore in-depth details about the premier nursing schools in Nevada, evaluating which programs offer optimal prospects for aspiring nurses.
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Our Ranking Approach:
Our approach to ranking the best nursing schools in Nevada is grounded in a data-driven methodology, prioritizing factors crucial to students such as academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. Utilizing publicly available provisional datasets from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), we ensure the information presented is current as of the publication date, with program-specific details subject to variation.
#1 Las Vegas College
Location: Henderson, NV
Duration: 2 years
Format: Campus
Las Vegas College, a two-year institution, provides three distinct nursing programs: a practical nurse certificate, an RN-to-BSN degree, and an associate in nursing degree (ADN).
Upon completion of the practical nurse certificate, graduates can seamlessly transition into the 24-month ADN program. Alternatively, direct entry into the ADN program is also an option. Both programs offer a blend of online and traditional classroom instruction.
Registered nurses seeking to balance work commitments with academic pursuits can opt for the fully online RN-to-BSN degree program, culminating in a 15-month completion timeframe.
Programs: Associate in nursing degree, bachelor of science in nursing, licensed practical nursing certificate
Campus: Henderson, Nevada
Type: Private
Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Tuition: $43,250 per year for Nevada residents
Admission Requirements: Varies by program; RN-to-BSN candidates require a current RN license and associate degree in nursing.
Minimum Time Commitment: 15 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 70.19% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $72,649 for associate degree graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $14,247
– Out-of-state: $14,247
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: Not provided
– Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: 95%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 399
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 61%
Accreditation: Yes Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
#2 Carrington College-Reno
Location: Reno, NV
Duration: 2 years
Format: Campus
Carrington College offers a 72-credit associate degree in nursing at six campuses, including the Reno location established in 2009, boasting 15,000 square feet of dedicated learning space.
This two-year degree program prioritizes safety and quality patient care across all age groups, encompassing 795 lecture hours, 240 lab hours, and 495 clinical hours. The curriculum spans various specialties, including community and mental health nursing, maternal child nursing, and pediatric nursing. Graduates undergo an NCLEX exam preparation course before completing the program.
Program: Associate in nursing degree
Campus: Reno, Nevada
Type: Private
Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Tuition: $19,938 per year for Nevada residents
Admission Requirements: High school diploma or GED certificate; ATI TEAS Exam score of at least 58%; proof of immunization; drug screening and background check
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 86.30% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $66,852 for associate’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: Not provided
– Out-of-state: Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: Not provided
– Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: 83%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 526
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 72%
Accreditation: No
#3 University of Nevada-Las Vegas
Location: Las Vegas, NV
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus
The University of Nevada’s school of nursing in Las Vegas offers a spectrum of undergraduate and graduate degrees through traditional and accelerated pathways.
At the undergraduate level, students can pursue a traditional BSN degree, RN-to-BSN degree, or accelerated second degree. The traditional BSN program spans 16 months and encompasses 122 credits, emphasizing physical assessment skills, evidence-based practice and research, management of complex nursing care, and population-focused nursing.
UNLV admits students in the fall, spring, and summer semesters.
Programs: Bachelor of science in nursing, master’s of science in nursing, Ph.D. in nursing, doctor of nursing practice
Campus: Las Vegas, Nevada
Type: Public
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $263-$323 per credit for Nevada residents; $551-$
676 per credit for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: Varies; Undergraduates must meet with an advisor in the Division of Health Sciences Advisement Center; Minimum 3.0 GPA in 13 general core units, SAT or ACT scores, or Nevada advanced high school diploma for first-year undergraduate students; Minimum 2.5 GPA and at least 24 transferable credits for transfer students.
Minimum Time Commitment: 16 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 87.82% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $75,313 (bachelor’s graduates) and $99,683 (master’s graduates), according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $7,747
– Out-of-state: $23,398
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $5,675
– Out-of-state: $21,328
Retention Rate: 80%
Admission Rate: 81%
Students Enrolled: 31,142
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 93%
Accreditation: Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#4 The University of Nevada-Reno
Reno, NV
4 years
Online + Campus
Established in 1956, the Orvis School of Nursing at the University of Nevada offers a diverse range of nursing programs catering to both entry-level and advanced nursing positions.
Prospective students can choose from a variety of programs, including a BSN degree, accelerated BSN program, online RN-to-BSN degree, MSN degree, and doctor of nursing practice programs. For licensed nurses seeking further education, the RN-to-BSN program allows enrollment with the completion of 120 credits within 3-5 semesters.
With a rolling admission policy, UNR’s RN-to-BSN program admits new students in the fall, spring, and summer semesters.
Programs: Bachelor of science in nursing, master’s of nursing, doctor of nursing practice, post-master’s certificates
Campus: Reno, Nevada
Type: Public
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $256-$314 per credit for Nevada residents; $8,527-$8,585 per credit for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: Varies; The RN-to-BSN program accepts students with an RN license and a minimum 2.0 GPA from an accredited nursing program or students concurrently enrolled in an ADN degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 94.56% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $69,161 for bachelor’s graduates and $104,192 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $7,901
– Out-of-state: $23,554
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $5,657
– Out-of-state: $21,310
Retention Rate: 80%
Admission Rate: 87%
Students Enrolled: 20,722
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 27%
Accreditation: Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#5 Truckee Meadows Community College
Reno, NV
4 years
Online + Campus
Established in 1979, Truckee Meadows Community College offers an associate in nursing degree (ADN) and an RN-to-BSN degree.
The full-time ADN program spans six semesters and prepares students for transfer to a four-year college. The curriculum encompasses 69-72 credits, covering courses in human anatomy and physiology, fundamentals of pharmacology, cultural aspects of nursing care, principles of pathophysiology, and professional behaviors.
Veterans and Nevada residents receive preferred admission to TMCC’s Maxine S. Jacobs nursing programs.
Programs: Associate in nursing degree, bachelor of science in nursing
Campus: Reno, Nevada
Type: Public
Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Tuition: $115-$189 per credit for Nevada residents; $242-$398 per credit for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: Varies; The ADN program requires applicants to submit official transcripts, meet with an academic advisor, and maintain a minimum 2.75 GPA for lower-division courses and a minimum 3.0 GPA for prerequisite courses.
Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 92.54% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $66,653 for associate degree graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $2,562
– Out-of-state: $10,039
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: Not provided
– Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: Not provided
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 10,249
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 88%
Accreditation: Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
How to Choose a Nursing Program in Nevada
When exploring nursing programs in Nevada, several factors merit consideration. It is crucial to limit your search to accredited nursing schools and programs to ensure the quality of education.
Other key features to examine include tuition rates, program length, and the availability of financial aid options for nurses. Assessing a program’s NCLEX pass rate and graduation rate can provide insights into its effectiveness in preparing students for the workforce.
Why Become a Nurse in Nevada
Nurses in Nevada benefit from some of the highest average salaries in the United States. Licensed practical nurses (LPNs), RNs, and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) earn higher salaries compared to 80% of their counterparts nationwide.
Additionally, Nevada boasts some of the country’s highest NCLEX-RN pass rates, with over 93% of first-time test takers passing the exam in 2020. This success positions Nevada as the 12th most effective state in preparing its students for the NCLEX-RN.
With high average salaries and robust nursing programs, Nevada offers an excellent starting point for prospective nurses in their careers.
Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Nevada
Nevada provides RNs with some of the highest average annual salaries in the country. At $89,750 per year, Nevada ranks just ahead of New Jersey ($85,720) and slightly behind New York ($89,760). Nurse practitioners (NPs) fare even better, with an average annual salary of $119,890, placing them just outside the top five states.
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Nevada ranks 36th in demand estimates, projecting a surplus of 8,100 nurses by 2030. However, these projections were made before the COVID-19 pandemic, during which many nurses left the field due to burnout.
The table below highlights the highest-paying metropolitan areas in Nevada, with Las Vegas, Henderson, and Reno being the top three most populated regions.
| Top Paying Metropolitan Areas | Average Salary for RNs |
|---|---|
| Las Vegas — Henderson — Paradise | $92,720 |
| Carson City | $81,930 |
| Reno | $80,310 |
Source: BLS
Steps to Becoming a Nurse in Nevada
Becoming a nurse in Nevada involves a series of steps, including education, licensure, and ongoing professional development. Here are the key steps for both RNs (Registered Nurses) and APRNs (Advanced Practice Registered Nurses):
RN Requirements
To become an RN in Nevada:
- Candidates must enroll in a nursing program approved by the Nevada State Board of Nursing and earn an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN).
- Students may earn their nursing degree online or in person. ADN programs typically take two years to complete, while BSN programs are generally four years long. Part-time students may take longer to graduate.
- After earning an ADN or a BSN, graduates must pass the NCLEX-RN before applying for state licensure. Nurses also undergo a criminal background check and submit their transcripts and proof of graduation to the state board of nursing.
- RNs must complete 30 continuing education credits every two years to maintain their license.
APRN Requirements
To become an APRN in Nevada:
- Candidates must hold an active RN license to practice in the state of Nevada.
- RNs must enter an accredited nursing program to earn their master of science in nursing or a doctor of nursing practice.
Prospective APRNs are required to pass a certification exam for one of the following roles: certified nurse midwife, NP, clinical nurse specialist, or certified registered nurse anesthetist. The Nevada licensing board accepts certifications from the following organizations:
National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse AnesthetistsAmerican Nurses Credentialing Center
Pediatric Nursing Certification Board
American Academy of Nurse Practitioners
National Certification Corporation
American Association of Critical-Care Nurses
American Midwifery Certification Board
- APRNs must complete 45 hours of continuing education every two years to maintain licensure. These consist of 30 hours for their RN license and 15 hours directly related to their APRN specialty.
Other Top Nursing Programs in Nevada
Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Nevada
Is Nevada a favorable location for nurses to pursue their careers?
Nurses employed in Nevada enjoy the advantage of receiving some of the highest average annual salaries in the country. The state holds the 5th position in terms of earnings for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), with an annual income of $59,700. Registered Nurses (RNs) secure the 9th spot, earning $89,750, while Nurse Practitioners (NPs) rank 6th, drawing an average annual salary of $119,890.
Despite not foreseeing a nursing shortage in the coming decade, Nevada stands out as an attractive state for LPNs, RNs, and APRNs, offering promising job prospects.
What is the process for transferring my nursing license to Nevada?
To transfer a nursing license to Nevada, nurses from out-of-state should initiate the licensure process through endorsement. Licensed LPNs and RNs need to have graduated from an accredited program to qualify for endorsement. The Nevada State Board of Nursing issues a temporary license valid for six months to eligible nurses.
To secure a permanent license, the nurse must undergo a background check before the expiration of the temporary license. Failure to complete the background check within the specified period renders individuals ineligible to reapply for licensure.
Is Nevada part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)?
Nevada is not currently a participant in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). The NLC is an agreement among nursing compact states, outlining standardized rules and procedures for all licensed Registered Nurses (RNs) to adhere to. Participation in the NLC simplifies the licensing process for RNs across states, minimizing paperwork. Nurses holding an NLC license are exempt from paying license renewal fees and can provide telehealth nursing care to patients across state lines.
What are the steps to become a nurse in Nevada?
The most straightforward path to becoming a nurse in Nevada involves enrolling in an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program within the state. Completing a program within Nevada facilitates the process of obtaining a Nevada nursing license.
For individuals who have acquired their license in another state, obtaining a temporary license is possible by contacting the Nevada State Board of Nursing. Ensuring completion of a background check before the temporary license expires is crucial, as this step precedes the issuance of a permanent license by the state.
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