The Top Nursing Schools in Idaho

The Top Nursing Schools in Idaho

Idaho is currently the fastest-growing state in the country, with an even higher demand for nurses. This comprehensive guide aims to assist you in choosing the finest nursing programs in Idaho and devising a plan to obtain your registered nurse (RN) license. If you are contemplating nursing school in Idaho, delve into the details about the top programs in the state, the process of obtaining your RN license, and potential salary prospects. Continue reading for further insights into nursing schools and the practice of nursing in Idaho, encompassing details about salaries and job opportunities.

The Best Nursing Schools in Idaho

Selecting the right school is a pivotal decision in your nursing career. This guide to the premier nursing programs in Idaho can be instrumental in making an informed choice aligned with your personal and professional objectives.

Our Ranking Method: We employ a data-driven methodology to rank the best nursing schools in Idaho, streamlining the process for you to discover a program that suits your needs. Our methodology is grounded in metrics we deem most crucial to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. The data for these schools is drawn from publicly available provisional datasets from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and is current as of the publication date of this article. Specific program information might vary.

1. Boise State University

Location: Boise, ID
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus

Boise State provides a Bachelor of Science in Nursing on its Boise campus. The program spans five semesters, with students progressing through it as part of a cohort. Coursework covers various topics, including health assessment and nursing in health and illness.

Participants engage in clinicals within a conducive 8-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio environment. Access to a state-of-the-art simulation center enhances the learning experience at one of Idaho’s premier nursing schools. Notably, the program boasts higher pass rates on the NCLEX-RN compared to the national average.

Program(s): Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Type: Public
Campus: Boise
Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: $8,060 per year for Idaho residents; $24,980 per year for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: A minimum 2.5 cumulative college GPA and pre-nursing courses with a minimum “C” grade
Minimum Time Commitment: 5 semesters
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 88.7% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $65,621 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $5,532
Out-of-state: $22,452

Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: $7,110
Out-of-state: $24,030

Retention Rate: 78%
Admission Rate: 77%
Students Enrolled: 24,069
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 82%
Accreditation: Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Most Common Jobs for Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs)

2. College of Eastern Idaho

Location: Idaho Falls, ID
Duration: 2 years
Format: Online + Campus

Situated in Idaho Falls, the College of Eastern Idaho offers a practical nursing program designed for Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs). Graduates qualify to take the national Licensed Practical Nurse exam (NCLEX-PN).

The curriculum encompasses both theoretical and hands-on supervised experience. This esteemed nursing program in Idaho requires over 300 clinical hours, providing a robust foundation. Participants also complete two RN-level courses, facilitating a smooth transition to the RN program if desired.

Program(s): Practical Nursing – Intermediate Technical Certificate in Nursing
Type: Public
Campus: Idaho Falls
Admission Requirements: TEAS scores, prerequisite courses, and current CNA certification
Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 92.7% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $57,318 for associate degree graduates, according to College Scorecard

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $4,096
Out-of-state: $6,192

Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: Not provided
Out-of-state: Not provided

Retention Rate: 67%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 1,803
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 76%
Accreditation: Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#3 College of Western Idaho

Nampa, ID
Duration: 2 years
Format: Online + Campus

The College of Western Idaho provides an associate of science in nursing program that equips students for the NCLEX-RN. Over a span of 36 months, students engage in a comprehensive curriculum encompassing theory and laboratory components.

Coursework covers diverse topics, including global health, human anatomy and physiology, and specialized nursing areas. A significant emphasis is placed on advanced medical-surgical nursing through a dedicated course and lab. As attendees of one of Idaho’s premier nursing schools, students benefit from affordable tuition rates.

Program(s): Associate of Science in Nursing
Type: Public
Campus: Nampa, Idaho
Accreditation(s): Accreditation Commission of Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Tuition: $139 per credit for Idaho residents, $306 per credit for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, Kaplan nursing admissions exam score, and prerequisite coursework
Minimum Time Commitment: 36 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96.6% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $58,943 for associate degree graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $3,400
Out-of-state: $7,344
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: Not provided
Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: 58%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 10,200
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 51% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation: Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#4 College of Southern Idaho

Twin Falls, ID
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus

The College of Southern Idaho offers an associate of science in nursing, requiring current CNA certification for enrollment. This program, spanning 73 credits, readies students for the NCLEX-RN by covering fundamental, medical/surgical, and maternal/newborn and pediatric nursing.

Clinical experience is gained through a simulation lab on campus and at off-campus healthcare settings. Recognized as one of the top nursing schools in Idaho, CSI delivers a blend of face-to-face and hybrid coursework.

Program(s): Associate of Science in Nursing
Type: Public
Campus: Twin Falls
Accreditation(s): Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Tuition: $140-$190 per credit for Idaho residents; $285 per credit for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, ATI TEAS exam scores, and CNA certification
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 81.1% first-time pass rate
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $4,560
Out-of-state: $6,840
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: Not provided
Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: Not provided
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 7,321
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation: Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#5 North Idaho College

Coeur d’Alene, ID
Duration: 2 years
Format: Online + Campus

At North Idaho College, students can pursue an associate degree in nursing (ADN), designed as a transfer curriculum to RN-to-BSN programs at Idaho’s public colleges. The ADN readies students for the NCLEX-RN.

The curriculum involves completing 68-70 credits covering general education and nursing courses. Training includes areas such as community health, medical-surgical, and psychiatric mental health nursing. As one of Idaho’s top nursing programs, NIC offers clinical experience at various healthcare agencies.

Program(s): Associate Degree in Nursing
Type: Public
Campus: Coeur d’Alene
Accreditation(s): Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Tuition: $141-$215 per credit for Idaho residents; $364 per credit for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, minimum 3.0 GPA, and ATI TEAS exam scores
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $4,000
Out-of-state: $7,776
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: Not provided
Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: 56%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 4,737
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 80% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation: Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#6 Lewis-Clark State College

Lewiston, ID
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus

Lewis-Clark State College administers a comprehensive nursing program in Idaho. The BSN offers multiple pathways: BSN basic, LPN-to-BSN, CC-to-BSN, or online RN-to-BSN. The LPN-to-BSN track caters to licensed practical nurses preparing for the NCLEX-RN.

RNs completing the RN-to-BSN track in as few as nine months receive advanced training in areas such as population health nursing and transcultural healthcare. The curriculum explores professional role development and fosters leadership skills.

Program(s): BSN with four tracks: BSN basic; LPN-to-BSN, CC-to-BSN; and online RN-to-BSN
Type: Public
Campus: Lewiston
Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: RN-to-BSN: $365 per credit
Admission Requirements: RN-to-BSN: minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA, prerequisite coursework, and an RN license; LPN-to-BSN: minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA, prerequisite coursework; and a practical/vocational nursing license
Minimum Time Commitment: RN-to-BSN: 9 months; LPN-to-BSN four semesters
On-Campus Requirements: Yes, except online RN-to-BSN
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95.7% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $65,131 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $6,982
Out-of-state: $20,238
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: Not provided
Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: 61%
Admission Rate: 100%
Students Enrolled: 3,856
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 52% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation: Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#7 Idaho State University

Pocatello, ID
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus

Idaho State University oversees one of the premier nursing schools in Idaho. Licensed practical nurses

can enroll in ISU’s associate degree in nursing (ADN) program, offering training in nursing areas like family, mental health, community, and medical and surgical.

Enrollees gain hands-on experience through labs and clinical practicum, utilizing a mix of distance learning and on-campus intensives. The ADN program prepares students for the NCLEX-RN.

Program(s): Associate Degree Registered Nurse
Type: Public
Campus: Pocatello, Idaho
Accreditation(s): Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Tuition: $21,456 total program tuition
Admission Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, prerequisite courses, minimum cumulative 2.5 GPA, and an Idaho LPN license
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 87.5% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $58,303 for associate degree graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $5,928
Out-of-state: $22,550
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: $7,982
Out-of-state: $24,604
Retention Rate: 63%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 11,766
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 65% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation: Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Popular MSN Programs

Explore details about MSN programs, including information on start dates, credit transfer policies, availability of financial aid, and more. Get in touch with the universities listed below for comprehensive insights.

How to Select a Nursing Program in Idaho

When making decisions among various nursing schools in Idaho, take into account whether you prefer a two-year or four-year degree, consider the cost and available financial aid, and examine the National Council Licensure Examination for RNs (NCLEX-RN) pass rate as an indicator of graduates’ preparedness for professional practice.

Also, factor in the school’s acceptance and graduation rates, along with program logistics. If you plan to enroll in an online nursing program in Idaho, ensure that clinical placement options are available for online students in your local community.

This guide exclusively features accredited programs, recognizing the pivotal role of nursing accreditation in program quality and future career opportunities.

Why Pursue a Nursing Career in Idaho

Idaho, the fastest-growing state in the nation, attracts new residents primarily from neighboring states seeking a better cost of living. The state offers a favorable balance, providing access to the coast and its commercial and technology hubs.

The demand for nurses in Idaho is high, further exacerbated by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has intensified the nursing shortage. To address this, the state grants temporary licenses to new nursing school graduates, enabling them to commence work promptly.

Being a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state, graduating from a nursing school in Idaho allows you to apply for a multistate license. This advantageous feature enables practicing in any of the 39 participating NLC states, making nursing programs in Idaho even more appealing.

Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Idaho

As per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average RN salary in Idaho is $73,640, slightly below the national average of $80,010. Nurse practitioners (NPs) in Idaho earn an average of $113,890, also slightly below the national average of $114,510. The cost of living in Idaho, with a current index of 102.1, is marginally higher than the national index of 100.

Between 2018 and 2028, the projected growth in RN jobs in Idaho is 19.9%, significantly surpassing the national rate of 12.1%.

Highest-Paying Cities for Nurses in Idaho

Given the influx of residents from California, Oregon, and Washington, particularly tech workers now working remotely, Idaho is witnessing rapid growth. Boise, in particular, is expanding with new dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions, while still maintaining proximity to beautiful scenery and outdoor recreation.

Highest-Paying Cities

Top Paying Metropolitan Areas	Median Salary for RNs
Lewiston	$81,310
Coeur d’Alene	$77,800
Boise City	$74,120
Pocatello	$70,960
Twin Falls	$67,010

Source: BLS

Steps to Becoming a Nurse in Idaho

Becoming a nurse in Idaho involves graduating from a state-approved nursing school with at least an associate degree in nursing (ADN) for RNs or a master’s for advanced practice nurses. Additionally, passing the relevant national examination, such as the NCLEX-RN exam, and undergoing a criminal background check are essential steps.

RN Requirements

For an RN license in Idaho, completion of an ADN or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree from a state-approved nursing school is required. Passing the NCLEX-RN exam and a criminal background check are also mandatory. The application fee varies, with $118.25 for licensure by examination and $138.25 for licensure by endorsement.

To renew the license, either 100 hours of practice in the last two years or a current nursing specialty certification is needed. Additionally, a minimum of 15 contact hours or equivalent education or teaching hours is required.

APRN Requirements

Becoming an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) in Idaho involves having a master of science in nursing or doctor of nursing practice, board certification in the relevant specialty, and a current and unencumbered RN license. A criminal background check is also part of the process, with an application fee of $118.25. Idaho APRNs enjoy full-practice authority, and peer review is a unique requirement for license renewal.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Idaho

How long does it take to become an RN in Idaho?

It typically takes around two years to earn an ADN degree or four years for a BSN degree. Idaho boasts one of the fastest license processing times in the country, with licensure status notifications sent within five business days of the state board of nursing receiving completed paperwork.

How do I become a nurse in Idaho?

To become a nurse in Idaho, you must earn either an ADN or a BSN degree, pass the NCLEX-RN examination, and undergo a criminal background check. The ADN takes two years to complete, while the BSN requires four years. If you possess a multistate license, you are eligible to practice in Idaho.

How long is a nursing license valid in Idaho?

Nursing licenses in Idaho are valid for two years for both RNs and APRNs. Renewal requirements include completing continuing education units, having 100 hours of practice or a specialty nursing certification, and, for APRNs, undergoing a peer review for license renewal.

How do I apply for the NCLEX in Idaho?

To take the NCLEX-RN in Idaho, submit your application to the state board of nursing and register with Pearson VUE. Upon determining your eligibility, the state board of nursing will provide an authorization code for the NCLEX-RN examination.