The Top Nursing Schools in Wyoming
Nursing jobs are experiencing rapid growth in Wyoming, with projections indicating that registered nurse (RN) positions will increase at a pace surpassing the national rate. Pursuing a nursing program in Wyoming offers the advantage of obtaining a multistate license, thereby enhancing job prospects. If you are considering a nursing school in Wyoming, it’s essential to explore the best nursing programs available, understand the process of acquiring a Wyoming nursing license, and gain insights into salary and job prospects. Continue reading to discover information about the top nursing schools in Wyoming, the steps to attain your Wyoming nursing license, and the expected earnings in this field.
The Best Nursing Schools in Wyoming
A two-year associate degree in nursing (ADN) boasts lower admission requirements and facilitates a quicker entry into the workforce. On the other hand, a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) demands more time and involves more competitive admissions, but it opens up greater advancement opportunities. This comprehensive guide aims to assist you in choosing the degree that aligns with your goals, and it provides insights into selecting a school that caters to your career aspirations and financial considerations.
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Our Ranking Method: We employ a data-driven methodology to rank the best nursing schools in Wyoming, streamlining the process for you to identify a program that suits your needs. The methodology is founded on metrics crucial to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. We utilize publicly available provisional datasets from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to inform the data for these schools. It’s important to note that all data is current as of the date this article was published, and program-specific information may vary.
1. University of Wyoming
– Location: Laramie, WY
– Duration: 4 years
– Format: Online + Campus
Situated in Laramie, the University of Wyoming stands out among the top nursing schools in the state. The bachelor of science in nursing program equips students to serve as registered nurses, fostering skills in health assessment and professional practice. While many courses are conducted on campus, learners have the opportunity to complete clinical placements in both Laramie and Cheyenne.
– Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing
– Campus: Laramie, WY
– Type: Public
– Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
– Tuition: $6,270 per year (in-state residents); $13,500 per year (out-of-state students)
– Admission Requirements: Minimum 2.75 GPA, SAT or ACT scores
– Minimum Time Commitment: 48 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96.1%
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $66,369 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
– Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $3,480
– Out-of-state: $14,472
– Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $5,076
– Out-of-state: $15,174
– Retention Rate: 80%
– Admission Rate: 94%
– Students Enrolled: 11,829
– Institution Type: Public
– Percent Online Enrollment: 93%
– Accreditation: Yes (Higher Learning Commission)
2. Casper College
– Location: Casper, WY
– Duration: 2 years
– Format: Online + Campus
Recognized as one of the state’s most comprehensive community colleges, Casper College offers a leading nursing program in Wyoming. The associate degree in nursing emphasizes skill development through simulated labs and supervised practicum experiences in healthcare settings. Graduates from this program can seamlessly continue their studies at the University of Wyoming’s bachelor’s in nursing program.
– Program(s): Associate degree in nursing
– Campus: Casper, WY
– Type: Public
– Accreditation(s): Accrediting Commission for Education in Nursing
– Tuition: $4,410 per year
– Admission Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent with a minimum 2.0 GPA, ACT scores
– Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 86.3%
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $58,092 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
– Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $2,970
– Out-of-state: $8,910
– Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: Not provided
– Out-of-state: Not provided
– Retention Rate: 64%
– Admission Rate: Not provided
– Students Enrolled: 3,551
– Institution Type: Public
– Percent Online Enrollment: 52%
– Accreditation: Yes (Higher Learning Commission)
#3 Northwest College
Powell, WY
2 years
Online + Campus
Northwest College, located in Powell, stands out as one of the leading nursing schools in Wyoming. The associate degree in nursing program at this community college follows an evidence-based curriculum that incorporates labs and clinical experiences. This program not only prepares candidates for the NCLEX-RN but also serves as a pathway for those aspiring to transfer into the bachelor’s in nursing program at the University of Wyoming.
Program(s): Associate degree in nursing
Campus: Powell, WY
Type: Public
Accreditation(s): Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Tuition: $105 per credit
Admission Requirements: High school or GED diploma, SAT or ACT scores
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 86.1%
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $50,439 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,970
Out-of-state
$8,910
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
59%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,438
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
55% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#4 Laramie County Community College
Cheyenne, WY
4 years
Online + Campus
Laramie County Community College offers an associate degree in nursing, blending classroom courses with hands-on clinical training. The curriculum encompasses diverse subjects such as general psychology, medical microbiology, and practical nursing role exploration. Graduates from this program have the opportunity to secure licensure as either a registered nurse or a licensed practical nurse.
Program(s): Associate degree in nursing
Campus: Laramie, WY
Type: Public
Accreditation(s): Accredited Commission for Education in Nursing
Tuition: $154 per credit
Admission Requirements: High school diploma with a minimum 2.5 GPA or GED certificate
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 78.1%
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $52,524 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,970
Out-of-state
$8,910
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
3,838
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
45% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
How to Choose a Nursing Program in Wyoming
When evaluating nursing schools in Wyoming, it is crucial to consider your budget, the cost, availability of financial aid, the National Council Licensure Examinations for RNs (NCLEX-RN) pass rate (a pivotal measure of quality), admission requirements, acceptance rate, and the logistics of attending. For those planning to enroll in an online nursing program, ensuring the availability of clinical placement in the local community is essential. Because unaccredited programs pose an unnecessary risk to your time and money, only accredited nursing programs are listed on this page.
Why Become a Nurse in Wyoming
In-state RN programs in Wyoming boast the lowest in-state tuition rate in the country, standing at $5,790 per year for a public, four-year program. Wyoming’s status as a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state allows graduates to apply for a multistate license. Additionally, Wyoming exhibits above-average job growth for RNs and a below-average cost of living.
The diverse geography of Wyoming, featuring the Great Plains in the east and mountains in the west, provides residents with ample opportunities for outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, skiing, and fishing. Notable attractions include Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and Devils Tower National Monument.
Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Wyoming
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary for RNs in Wyoming is $72,600, while nurse practitioners (NPs) earn $118,810. Although slightly below the national median of $77,600 for RNs and $120,680 for NPs, Wyoming’s below-average cost of living, rated at 94.3, is a contributing factor. Moreover, Wyoming, with no state income tax, offers an attractive economic landscape.
The job outlook for RNs in Wyoming is promising, with a projected growth rate of 16.2% between 2018 and 2028, exceeding the national average of 12.1%. The BLS also anticipates a substantial 30% growth for NP positions.
Highest-Paying Cities for Nurses in Wyoming
While Wyoming is renowned for its wilderness and national parks, cities like Cheyenne and Casper offer a blend of urban living and easy access to outdoor recreation. Cheyenne boasts a median salary of $80,090 for RNs, while Casper follows closely with a median salary of $70,520.
| Top Paying Metropolitan Areas | Median Salary for RNs |
|---|---|
| Cheyenne | $80,090 |
| Casper | $70,520 |
Source: BLS
Steps to Becoming a Nurse in Wyoming
All states mandate that RNs obtain a license by completing nursing school, passing the relevant national examination, and undergoing a criminal background check. After graduating from nursing school, RNs can apply for a temporary license while awaiting their NCLEX-RN results.
RN Requirements
To secure an RN license, candidates must graduate from a nursing school in Wyoming or another NLC state with either an ADN or a BSN degree, pass the NCLEX-RN, and undergo a criminal background check with fingerprinting. The state board of nursing automatically assesses eligibility for a multistate license, and applicants do not need to submit a separate application. The application fee is $130, with an additional $60 for the background check. License renewal is required every two years.
APRN Requirements
Becoming an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) necessitates earning a graduate degree in nursing, either a master of science in nursing or doctor of nursing practice, passing the relevant national board examination for the nursing specialty, and holding a current and unencumbered RN license. A license with prescriptive authority costs $380, while one without prescriptive authority costs $310. Wyoming APRNs enjoy full-practice authority, and the state board of nursing has entered the APRN Licensure Compact, although activation awaits participation from seven states.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wyoming
1. How long does it take to become an RN in Wyoming?
Candidates must complete either a two-year ADN or a four-year BSN. The application process takes approximately three weeks upon the state board of nursing’s receipt of completed forms. Applicants can also apply for a temporary license, which expires if they do not pass the NCLEX-RN.
2. Is there a nursing shortage in Wyoming?
Wyoming faced a nursing shortage even before COVID-19, and the pandemic exacerbated the situation. The shortage spans across all healthcare providers, with nursing schools in Wyoming struggling to hire adequate staff to meet the demands.
3. Is Wyoming an RN compact state?
Wyoming operates as an NLC state. Upon graduating from nursing school in Wyoming and applying for a license, the state board of nursing automatically checks eligibility for a multistate license.
4. How much does nursing school cost in Wyoming?
Depending on the degree and institution, nursing schools in Wyoming offer some of the most affordable programs in the country. On average, a four-year BSN at a public school in Wyoming costs $5,790 per year for in-state tuition and fees. While ADN programs are somewhat cheaper, costs have risen by more than 40% over the last five years.
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