The Top Nursing Schools in New Mexico

The Top Nursing Schools in New Mexico

#1 Northern New Mexico College

Espanola, NM
4 years
Campus

Northern New Mexico College, a distinguished institution among nursing schools in New Mexico, has been shaping nursing professionals since 1973. The nursing and health sciences department at the school provides accelerated “career ladder” degrees.

Certified nurse aides and licensed practical nurses have the opportunity to advance their careers through an ACEN-accredited associate degree in nursing. For registered nurses, there is an option to earn a CCNE-accredited BSN with a focus on holistic nursing care.

The RN-to-BSN courses are available online, allowing working RNs to pursue further education. On average, students take two years to complete their degree.

Program: Associate degree in nursing, bachelor of science in nursing
Campus: Española, New Mexico
Type: Public
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE); Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Tuition: $136 per credit for New Mexico residents; $505 per credit for out-of-state students; $204 per credit for Western Undergraduate Exchange students; $270 per credit for RN-to-BSN program
Admission Requirements: RN-to-BSN applicants need an ADN degree or nursing diploma; current RN license; official transcripts; criminal background check for clinical rotations
Minimum Time Commitment: 2 years
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $3,447
– Out-of-state: $12,171
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $2,652
– Out-of-state: $3,969
Retention Rate: 61%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 1,119
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 37%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#2 University of New Mexico-Taos Campus

Ranchos de Taos, NM
2 years
Campus

The University of New Mexico-Taos Campus (UNM-Taos) offers an associate degree in nursing that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam or facilitates their transfer to a four-year program. This two-year program serves as a direct pathway to higher degrees at New Mexico Nursing Education Consortium schools.

UNM-Taos admits small nursing cohorts, with each group consisting of 16 students. The program requires 74 credits, covering subjects such as health and illness concepts, principles of nursing practice, and assessment and health promotion. Clinical rotations take place at various sites, including Holy Cross Hospital.

Program: Associate degree in nursing, certified nursing assistant certificate
Campus: Ranchos de Taos, New Mexico
Type: Public
Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Tuition: $10,860 per year for New Mexico residents; $27,166 per year for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: Current CNA certificate; cover letter; resume; high school and college transcripts; ATI Test of Essential Academic Skills
Minimum Time Commitment: 2 years
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $68,965 for associate degree graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $1,872
– Out-of-state: $4,722
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: Not provided
– Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: 45%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 1,143
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 29%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#3 New Mexico State University-Carlsbad

Carlsbad, NM
2 years
Online + Campus

New Mexico State University Carlsbad (NMSU Carlsbad) stands among the top ACEN-accredited nursing schools in New Mexico. The school provides an associate degree in nursing along with programs for licensed practical nurses and certified nursing assistants.

The LPN program has a duration of one year, while students can complete an ADN in about two years. The curriculum encompasses essential topics like human growth and behavior, medication and dosage calculations, health deviations, and physical assessments.

NMSU Carlsbad also offers a fully online RN-to-BSN degree in collaboration with NMSU’s Las Cruces campus.

Program: Associate degree in nursing
Campus: Carlsbad, New Mexico
Type: Public
Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Tuition: $41 per credit for in-district New Mexico residents; $74 per credit for out-of-district New Mexico residents; $93-$159 per credit for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: Official transcripts; high school diploma or GED certificate; HESI A2 exam scores
Minimum Time Commitment: 1 year
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $63,997 for associate degree graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $1,776
– Out-of-state: $3,816
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: Not provided
– Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: 54%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 1,921
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 43%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#4 Luna Community College

Las Vegas, NM
2 years
Online + Campus

Luna Community College’s ADN program caters to applicants with prior professional healthcare experience. Students engage in courses covering human anatomy and physiology, health and illness concepts, and nursing pharmacology. The program entails 71 credits, including a clinical intensive and a capstone course.

To receive an affidavit of graduation from the New Mexico Board of Nursing, students are required to pass the ATI Comprehensive Predictor Exam.

Program: Associate degree in nursing
Campus: Las Vegas, New Mexico
Type: Public
Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Tuition: $43 per credit
Admission Requirements: TEAS exam scores; must be at least 18 years old; high school and/or college transcripts; minimum 2.75 GPA in prerequisites; complete the ATI Fundamentals Exam for the LPN program
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 85% 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: $1,248
– Out-of-state: $2,376
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: Not provided
– Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: 47%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 1,043
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 24%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#5 New Mexico Junior College

Hobbs, NM
2 years
Online + Campus

New Mexico Junior College (NMJC) holds a prominent position among the best nursing schools in New Mexico. The school’s associate-level nursing program admits up to 50 students annually.

The two-year nursing associate degree equips learners to take the NCLEX-RN and pursue careers as registered nurses. The program commences with classes in human anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology, concluding with clinical intensive and capstone courses.

NMJC accepts nursing applications until May 20 each year.

Program: Associate of applied science in nursing, certified nursing assistant certificate, licensed practical nurse certificate
Campus: Hobbs, New Mexico
Type: Public
Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Tuition: $40 per credit for in-district New Mexico residents; $60 per credit for out-of-district New Mexico and Texas residents; $75 per credit for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: Official transcripts; high school diploma or GED certificate
Minimum Time Commitment: 2 years
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 88.9% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $59,169 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $1,344
– Out-of-state: $1,536
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: Not provided
– Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: 69%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 2,327
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 50%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#6 University of New Mexico-Main Campus

Albuquerque, NM
4 years
Online + Campus

The University of New Mexico’s (UNM) main campus in Albuquerque offers CCNE-accredited graduate and undergraduate nursing programs.

UNM’s four BSN degree options include a pre-licensure BSN and an RN-to-BSN program. Students entering the pre-licensure program can choose to study at the Albuquerque campus or the Rio Rancho campus.

The university also provides a BSN pathway for high school seniors through its direct entry program. The BSN dual degree allows students to study at their local community college, with six campus locations.

Program: Bachelor of science in nursing, master of science in nursing; doctor of nursing practice; Ph.D. in nursing
Campus: Albuquerque, New Mexico
Type: Public
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: $359-$614 per credit for New Mexico residents; $1,218-$1,355 per credit for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: RN-to-BSN students need a current RN license; minimum 2.5 college GPA; at least 26 transferable credits
On-Campus Requirements: Varies by program
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93.2% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $68,965 for associate degree graduates; $70,863 for bachelor’s graduates; $94,999 for master’s graduates; $135,393 for doctoral graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $6,299
– Out-of-state: $21,716
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $5,156
– Out-of-state: $17,407
Retention Rate: 77%
Admission Rate: 94%
Students Enrolled: 22,729
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 41%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#7 University of New Mexico-Gallup Campus

Gallup, NM
2 years
Campus

The University of New Mexico’s Gallup campus (UNM-Gallup), acknowledged as one of the premier nursing programs in New Mexico, has been training nurses since 2002.

UNM-Gallup’s nursing cohorts graduate twice a year. The ADN degree requires 70 credits, while the BSN program demands 128.

The selective BSN program admits eight students each semester. Students initially take prerequisites in subjects like human growth and development, human nutrition, and general psychology at the Gallup campus. Subsequently, they continue their studies at UNM’s College of Nursing.

Program: Associate of science in nursing, bachelor of science in nursing, certified nursing assistant certificate
Campus: Gallup, New Mexico
Type: Public
Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Tuition: $81 per credit for New Mexico residents; $196 per credit for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: Meet with a nursing advisor; take the TEAS exam; complete prerequisites
Minimum Time Commitment: 4 semesters
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 83.3% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $68,965 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $1,785
– Out-of-state: $4,708
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: Not provided
– Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: 68%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 2,487
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 36%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#8 New Mexico State University-Dona Ana

Las Cruces, NM
2 years
Online + Campus

As part of the New Mexico State University system, Dona Ana Community College offers some of the most flexible nursing programs in New Mexico.

Students have the option to complete a licensed practical nursing program and then take an additional 15 credits to earn an associate degree in nursing. The 69-credit program covers crucial topics such as pharmacology, nursing skills and assessments, and anatomy and physiology. Specialized courses include geriatric patients, mental health nursing, and maternal child nursing.

Program: Associate degree in nursing, licensed practical nurse certificate
Campus: Las Cruces, New Mexico
Type: Public
Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Tuition: $74 per credit for in-district New Mexico residents; $85 per credit for out-of-district New Mexico residents; $236 per credit for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: High school and/or college transcripts; minimum 3.0 GPA; admissions interview
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $63,997 for associate degree graduates, according to College Scorecard

Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $1,962
– Out-of-state: $5,466

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

Retention Rate: 61%

Admission Rate: Not provided

Students Enrolled: 8,054

Institution Type: Public

Percent Online Enrollment: 38% (Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.)

Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#9 Navajo Technical University

Crownpoint, NM
4 years
Campus

Navajo Technical University, established as Navajo Skill Center in 1979, offers a nursing assistant certificate program that prepares graduates for the New Mexico nurse assisting certification exam.

Courses at the university emphasize both knowledge and practical skills through labs and clinical rotations. Topics covered include pathophysiology, admission exams, technical communications, and human nutrition.

– Program: Certified nursing assistant certificate
– Campus: Crownpoint, New Mexico
– Type: Public
– Tuition: $71 per credit for students with a Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood; $143 per credit for students without a certificate
– Admission Requirements: Minimum 2.0 GPA; official transcripts; high school diploma or GED certificate; CPR training
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $3,420
– Out-of-state: $3,420
– Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $2,250
– Out-of-state: $2,250
– Retention Rate: 76%
– Admission Rate: Not provided
– Students Enrolled: 1,849
– Institution Type: Public
– Percent Online Enrollment: 11% (Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.)
– Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#10 University of New Mexico-Valencia County Campus

Los Lunas, NM
2 years
Campus

The University of New Mexico’s Valencia campus (UNM-Valencia) provides an associate degree in nursing with an annual enrollment of eight students.

UNM-Valencia also manages a five-semester dual ADN and BSN program. The curriculum covers general nursing practice principles, assessments and health promotion, and health and illness concepts. Students also study the care of patients with chronic conditions. The program concludes with a capstone and a clinical intensive.

– Program: Associate degree in nursing
– Campus: Los Lunas, New Mexico
– Type: Public
– Accreditations: Accrediting Commission on Education in Nursing (ACEN)
– Tuition: $75 per credit for New Mexico residents; $210 per credit for out-of-state students
– Admission Requirements: High school diploma or GED certificate; official transcripts; Kaplan Admissions Test
– Minimum Time Commitment: 5 semesters
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 76.9% first-time pass rate
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $68,965 for associate degree graduates, according to College Scorecard
– Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $1,842
– Out-of-state: $5,100
– Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: Not provided
– Out-of-state: Not provided
– Retention Rate: 65%
– Admission Rate: Not provided
– Students Enrolled: 2,196
– Institution Type: Public
– Percent Online Enrollment: 74% (Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.)
– Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

How to Choose a Nursing Program in New Mexico

When considering a nursing program in New Mexico, whether for an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN), there are several vital factors to take into account. These include evaluating tuition and associated costs, exploring available financial aid options for nurses, and considering the pass rate of the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). Additionally, aspects such as acceptance rates and program logistics should be carefully assessed. For those interested in online nursing programs in New Mexico, it’s essential to inquire about the possibility of securing clinical placement in one’s local community.

It’s crucial to note that this guide exclusively focuses on accredited nursing programs. Unaccredited programs may hinder your ability to obtain licensure and employment in the field.

Reasons to Pursue a Nursing Career in New Mexico

New Mexico operates as a Nurse Licensure Compact state, allowing nurses to obtain a multistate license that enables them to practice in any of the 37 participating states. Furthermore, the state provides a loan forgiveness program for nurses, offering up to $12,000 annually to eligible individuals. To qualify, one must be a New Mexico resident with a minimum 12-month residency, attend nursing school in the state, and commit to working in an underserved area post-graduation. The New Mexico Nurses Foundation also extends scholarship opportunities.

Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in New Mexico

According to projections from the Health Care Workforce in New Mexico, the state anticipates an additional 2,080 jobs for registered nurses (RNs) and 90 for nurse practitioners (NPs) by 2028. The cost-of-living index in New Mexico is 90.6, compared to the national average of 100, potentially allowing salaries to provide greater purchasing power, depending on the specific location.

As reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary for an RN in New Mexico is $75,700, slightly surpassing the national median of $75,330. NPs in the state earn an average salary of $117,050, compared to the national median of $111,680. Various loan forgiveness programs, both at the state and federal levels, contribute to maximizing income potential.

Notably, popular cities such as Santa Fe, Albuquerque, Farmington, and Las Cruces offer competitive salaries for nurses, with Santa Fe leading the pack at an average salary of $77,830.

Highest-Paying Cities for Nurses in New Mexico

Top Paying Metropolitan Areas	Average Salary for RNs
Santa Fe	$77,830
Albuquerque	$76,740
Farmington	$74,260
Las Cruces	$73,870

Source: BLS

Steps to Pursue a Nursing Career in New Mexico

The New Mexico Board of Nursing plays a central role in licensing for all practicing nurses in the state. Overseeing the approval and accreditation of traditional and online nursing programs, the board ensures that each program maintains the necessary minimum standards. Additionally, licensed nurses are required to participate in continuing education (CE) to consistently advance their knowledge and skills.

Certified nursing assistants must complete a minimum of 75 hours in an approved in-state nursing program, followed by successfully passing the Nurse Aide Competency Exam. New Mexico stands among the states allowing NPs to engage in full practice, enabling them to serve as primary care providers, prescribe medications, and perform duties akin to those of a physician.

Requirements for RNs:

To apply for an RN license, individuals must possess either an associate degree in nursing or a bachelor of science in nursing degree from an accredited traditional or online RN program in New Mexico. Depending on the program, students may need to fulfill a specific number of clinical hours before graduating and becoming eligible to take the NCLEX-RN.

The RN licensure process involves an application fee of $110, a $44 criminal background check fee, and a $200 exam fee. The application processing time typically takes 3-4 weeks before receiving approval. It is advisable for students to submit their applications before graduating from nursing school. Renewing RN licenses comes with a $93 fee, and nurses must engage in a minimum of 30 CE hours for renewal.

Requirements for APRNs:

To obtain licensure as an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), individuals need a master’s in nursing or a doctor of nursing practice from an accredited program. Additionally, they must pass an exam from an approved certification body, with the specific exam depending on the nurse’s specialty area.

Given the potential duration for the state’s nursing board to issue a license, nurses can secure a temporary permit to practice. Employers may obtain this permit on behalf of the nurse, provided there is an intention to hire.

Authorization to prescribe medications as an NP requires completion of 400 hours of preceptorship training, along with demonstrated coursework in assessment, pathophysiology, and pharmacology. The application process for APRN licensure includes a $100 fee. Professionals must renew their APRN license every two years, engaging in at least 50 CE hours during each license period.

Other Top Nursing Programs in New Mexico:

Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in New Mexico:

1. What is the NCLEX-RN pass rate in New Mexico?

In 2020, the average first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate for nursing programs in New Mexico was 85.7%, just slightly below the national rate of 86.6%. Many nursing schools in New Mexico, particularly BSN programs, surpassed the national average, demonstrating their strong academic performance.

2. Which schools have the highest NCLEX-RN pass rate in New Mexico?

In 2020, the top five nursing programs in New Mexico, each with at least 100 students taking the exam, achieved NCLEX-RN pass rates above 96%. These schools include:

• San Juan College BSN and University of New Mexico BSN Aggregated (97.12%)
• University of New Mexico Taos BSN and University of New Mexico BSN Aggregated (97.04%)
• University of New Mexico Gallup BSN and University of New Mexico BSN Aggregated (96.85%)
• University of New Mexico Albuquerque/BSN (96.75%)
• New Mexico Junior College BSN and University of New Mexico BSN Aggregated (96.24%).

While smaller nursing schools in New Mexico also demonstrated pass rates above 96%, their average pass scores may not be as strongly indicative of overall performance.

3. How many times can you take the NCLEX-RN in New Mexico?

As of May 3, 2018, individuals who attended nursing school in New Mexico or elsewhere in the U.S. are allowed to take the NCLEX-RN up to three times within three years of first becoming eligible. International students, following their initial application, also have the opportunity to take the exam up to three times within three years.

4. What is the salary range for nurses in New Mexico?

According to the BLS, approximately half of all nurses in New Mexico earn salaries ranging between $65,140 and $85,070. The average salary for nurses in the state is reported as $75,700. It’s important to note that nursing salaries can vary based on factors such as educational attainment, years of experience, certifications, and geographic location. Urban areas generally offer higher salaries for nurses.