The Top Nursing Schools in New Mexico

1. University of New Mexico College of Nursing

• Location: Albuquerque, NM
• Website: https://nursing.unm.edu
• Description:
  The University of New Mexico College of Nursing is the premier nursing school in the state, known for its extensive offerings and dedication to advancing nursing practice and education. As one of the largest and most respected nursing schools in New Mexico, the college offers a comprehensive range of programs, including BSN, MSN, DNP, and Ph.D. in Nursing. The program is built around a patient-centered approach and aims to develop nurses who are well-equipped to meet the diverse healthcare needs of New Mexico’s population. UNM’s nursing students benefit from hands-on clinical experiences with renowned institutions such as the UNM Health System, one of the state’s largest providers of healthcare. The school’s advanced practice programs include specialized tracks like Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP), with an emphasis on working with underserved populations in rural and urban settings. Faculty at UNM are deeply involved in groundbreaking research, focusing on health disparities, healthcare policy, and clinical nursing practice, offering students unique research opportunities to enhance their learning. UNM College of Nursing is also known for its global health initiatives and innovative programs that foster leadership in nursing education and healthcare transformation.
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Tuition: Approx. $9,000 per year (in-state undergraduate)
• Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner, DNP

2. New Mexico State University School of Nursing

• Location: Las Cruces, NM
• Website: https://nursing.nmsu.edu
• Description:
  New Mexico State University (NMSU) School of Nursing offers a highly regarded nursing program that prepares students for a wide range of nursing careers, from clinical practice to nursing leadership. The school offers BSN, MSN, and RN-to-BSN programs with a focus on providing compassionate, patient-centered care. NMSU is especially known for its commitment to improving healthcare in rural and underserved areas. The nursing program emphasizes community health, health disparities, and nursing education. Students benefit from hands-on learning opportunities at local hospitals and clinics, including partnerships with Mountain View Regional Medical Center and Las Cruces Public Health Department. The MSN program at NMSU allows students to specialize in areas such as Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Nurse Educator, preparing them for advanced roles in both clinical practice and academia. The RN-to-BSN program is ideal for working registered nurses looking to expand their knowledge and skills, and the DNP program prepares nurses for the highest levels of leadership and clinical expertise. The program’s strong research focus helps students engage in initiatives that address New Mexico’s unique healthcare challenges.
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Tuition: Approx. $7,000 per year (in-state undergraduate)
• Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, RN-to-BSN, DNP

3. University of Phoenix New Mexico Campus

• Location: Albuquerque, NM
• Website: https://www.phoenix.edu
• Description:
  The University of Phoenix New Mexico Campus provides a flexible and affordable pathway to a nursing career through its online and hybrid nursing programs. The school’s BSN and MSN programs are designed for working adults, offering flexible class schedules that accommodate busy lives. The University of Phoenix uses a practical approach to nursing education, focusing on developing critical thinking, evidence-based practice, and patient-centered care. The MSN program offers specialized tracks in Family Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Educator, with opportunities for students to gain advanced clinical skills and leadership training. The program is supported by the university’s extensive network of partnerships with healthcare facilities across New Mexico, providing students with opportunities for hands-on clinical experience. University of Phoenix also offers an RN-to-BSN program for nurses who want to expand their skills and advance their careers. Students benefit from a collaborative learning environment, personalized academic support, and access to faculty members who are experienced nurses with a wealth of clinical and academic expertise. This makes University of Phoenix New Mexico Campus an excellent choice for students seeking a flexible, career-focused nursing education.
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Tuition: Approx. $13,000 per year (graduate programs)
• Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, RN-to-BSN

4. Northern New Mexico College School of Nursing

• Location: Espanola, NM
• Website: https://nnmc.edu
• Description:
  The Northern New Mexico College School of Nursing offers a highly affordable and community-focused nursing program. The school’s BSN program is designed to prepare students for a career in nursing with an emphasis on cultural competency, community health, and holistic care. Located in a rural region of New Mexico, Northern New Mexico College is committed to addressing healthcare needs in underserved areas. The program offers students unique learning opportunities to work with a diverse patient population in rural and urban settings. Students are prepared for both clinical practice and leadership roles in nursing, with faculty who are actively engaged in research and committed to improving healthcare outcomes. Northern New Mexico College is also known for its low student-to-faculty ratio, providing students with personalized attention and support throughout their education. The RN-to-BSN program offers a pathway for registered nurses to continue their education and pursue career advancement in specialized roles such as nurse educator or family nurse practitioner. Northern New Mexico College’s nursing programs are an excellent choice for those looking to make a direct impact on healthcare delivery in rural communities.
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Tuition: Approx. $4,000 per year (in-state undergraduate)
• Programs: RN-to-BSN, BSN

5. Central New Mexico Community College (CNM) School of Nursing

• Location: Albuquerque, NM
• Website: https://www.cnm.edu
• Description:
  Central New Mexico Community College (CNM) offers a robust Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program that provides students with the skills needed to become registered nurses (RNs) in a variety of healthcare settings. CNM is particularly known for its affordability and accessibility, offering high-quality education to students who may be looking for a more economical path into nursing. The ASN program integrates theoretical education with practical clinical training, providing students with hands-on experience in acute care, community health, and long-term care. CNM collaborates with healthcare facilities like Presbyterian Hospital and UNM Health System, ensuring students gain valuable real-world experience in diverse patient care environments. After earning their ASN, students can sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and enter the workforce as registered nurses. CNM also offers an RN-to-BSN program in partnership with University of New Mexico, providing a seamless transition for students who wish to continue their education and pursue more advanced nursing practice roles. CNM’s nursing program is ideal for those seeking an affordable and flexible education, with classes offered in both daytime and evening formats.
• Accreditation: ACEN
• Tuition: Approx. $1,000 per semester (in-state)
• Programs: ASN, RN-to-BSN

6. Western New Mexico University School of Nursing

• Location: Silver City, NM
• Website: https://www.wnmu.edu
• Description:
  Western New Mexico University offers a BSN program that prepares students to enter the nursing profession with a focus on rural healthcare, community health, and cultural sensitivity. The program is designed to equip students with the practical skills and knowledge needed to provide high-quality care in both urban and rural healthcare settings. WNMU has strong partnerships with healthcare providers throughout New Mexico, including Gila Regional Medical Center, where students complete their clinical rotations. The school’s faculty are experienced professionals who provide mentorship and guidance to help students develop clinical expertise and leadership abilities. The BSN program emphasizes the development of both technical nursing skills and interpersonal communication, which are essential for delivering patient-centered care. WNMU also offers an RN-to-BSN program for registered nurses who want to expand their knowledge and advance their careers. Located in Silver City, WNMU’s nursing school provides a unique opportunity for students to work with diverse patient populations in a rural setting, making it an ideal choice for those interested in rural health and community nursing.
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Tuition: Approx. $7,000 per year (in-state)
• Programs: RN-to-BSN, BSN

7. Eastern New Mexico University College of Health and Behavioral Sciences

• Location: Portales, NM
• Website: https://www.enmu.edu
• Description:
  Eastern New Mexico University offers a highly respected BSN program that is designed to prepare students for the challenges of modern nursing. The university’s nursing program integrates clinical experience with classroom education, focusing on evidence-based practice, patient-centered care, and leadership in nursing. ENMU is particularly committed to serving rural communities, offering students the opportunity to gain experience in various healthcare environments. The program also emphasizes the importance of cultural competence, ensuring students are prepared to work in diverse settings. The school’s faculty are highly experienced and offer mentoring and support to help students succeed.
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Tuition: Approx. $6,000 per year (in-state undergraduate)
• Programs: BSN

These nursing schools in New Mexico offer diverse and comprehensive programs that prepare students for successful careers in nursing. From traditional BSN and MSN degrees to specialized tracks such as Family Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Educator, these schools are dedicated to providing a high-quality education and equipping nurses with the skills necessary to make a meaningful impact in their communities. Whether you are just starting your nursing journey or advancing your career, these institutions provide the knowledge and hands-on experience required to excel in today’s healthcare environment.

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.

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.

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