Top Missouri Nursing Schools and Program

Top Missouri Nursing Schools and Programs

Missouri boasts nearly 70 associate nursing or bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) programs, offering diverse options for learners to align with their career goals, backgrounds, and personal preferences. Given the high demand for nurses in the state, this comprehensive guide delves into Missouri’s top nursing programs. It covers essential aspects such as nurse licensing, average salaries, and job outlook. Whether you’re pursuing a registered nurse (RN) or advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) license, this guide provides valuable insights into the best nursing programs in Missouri.

Selecting the Best Nursing Schools in Missouri

Choosing the ideal nursing school depends on individual criteria. This guide assists in navigating the selection process, whether you opt for an online or on-campus nursing program in Missouri.

Our Ranking Method

We employ a data-driven methodology to rank the best nursing schools in Missouri, streamlining your search for a program that suits your needs. Our approach considers key metrics such as academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. Utilizing publicly available data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), this guide ensures the information is current as of the article’s publication date. Note that program-specific details may vary.

Top Missouri Nursing Schools and Programs

College of the Ozarks

Located in Point Lookout, MO, the College of the Ozarks stands out as a small, non-profit institution offering a traditional four-year bachelor’s degree in nursing. The program’s clinical courses encompass various areas, including adult health, community health, geriatrics, maternity, and mental health. Students culminate their studies with a preceptorship, providing hands-on experience under the supervision of a registered nurse.

– Program(s): Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
– Campus: Point Lookout, Missouri
– Type: Private
– Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
– Tuition: $19,500 per year
– Admission Requirements: 2.75 GPA; ACT with a preferred score of 21; HESI A2 exam scores; admissions interview
– Minimum Time Commitment: 48 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100% first-time pass rate
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $52,107 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard

Rockhurst University

Situated in Kansas City, MO, Rockhurst University offers nursing students the option of pursuing a traditional on-campus bachelor’s degree or an online registered nurse (RN) bridge program leading to a bachelor’s or master’s degree. The university also provides an accelerated bachelor’s degree in nursing for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders through a hybrid format. Additionally, learners can enroll in a master’s degree program with specialization in either adult-gerontology acute care or family nurse practitioner tracks. Rockhurst University facilitates clinical placements for its students.

– Program(s): Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – traditional, RN-to-BSN, and accelerated; Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
– Campus: Kansas City, Missouri
– Type: Private
– Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
– Tuition: BSN $20,350 per year; RN-to-BSN $325 per credit hour; accelerated BSN $783 per credit hour; MSN $735 per credit hour
– Admission Requirements: Detailed requirements for each program
– Minimum Time Commitment: 12-16 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $60,213 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
– Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state $38,800; Out-of-state $38,800
– Average Graduate Tuition: In-state $16,200; Out-of-state $16,200
– Retention Rate: 88%
– Admission Rate: 73%
– Students Enrolled: 3,688
– Institution Type: Private
– Percent Online Enrollment: 76%
– Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

William Jewell College

Located in Liberty, MO, William Jewell College’s nursing program leads to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) with four entry points: traditional three- and four-year plans, transfer student entry, and an accelerated track. The program places a strong emphasis on nursing skills, critical thinking, and leadership. William Jewell College maintains partnerships with local healthcare providers to facilitate student clinical placements.

– Program(s): Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
– Campus: Liberty, Missouri
– Type: Private
– Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
– Tuition: $18,360 per year full-time; $39,500 per accelerated program
– Admission Requirements: Detailed requirements for high school seniors, transfer students, and accelerated BSN applicants
– Minimum Time Commitment: 12-16 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 85.5% first-time pass rate
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $57,403 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
– Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state $33,500; Out-of-state $33,500
– Average Graduate Tuition: In-state $4,800; Out-of-state $4,800
– Retention Rate: 77%
– Admission Rate: 36%
– Students Enrolled: 751
– Institution Type: Private
– Percent Online Enrollment: 50%
– Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

Maryville University of Saint Louis

Based in Saint Louis, MO, Maryville University provides three paths to a bachelor’s degree in nursing: a traditional four-year program, a fast track for transfer students, and a part-time evening and weekend option. All three programs are conducted on campus, with full-time students receiving iPads loaded with course materials. Maryville University also offers online nursing programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate levels.

– Program(s): Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN); RN-to-BSN; Master of Science in Nursing (MSN); Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP); BSN-to-DNP
– Campus: St. Louis, Missouri
– Type: Private
– Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
– Tuition: BSN $24,766 per year full-time, $781 per credit hour part-time; RN-to-BSN $500 per credit hour; graduate programs $813-$897 per credit hour
– Admission Requirements: Detailed requirements for each program
– Minimum Time Commitment: 20 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes for BSN
– School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93% first-time pass rate
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $55,964 for bachelor’s graduates, $93,724 for master’s graduates, and $123,527 for doctoral graduates, according to College Scorecard
– Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state $24,766; Out-of-state $24,766
– Average Graduate Tuition: In-state $14,346; Out-of-state $14,346
– Retention Rate: 83%
– Admission Rate: 95%
– Students Enrolled: 10,979
– Institution Type: Private

– Percent Online Enrollment: 83%
– Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#5 Saint Louis University

Location: Saint Louis, MO
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus

At St. Louis University, nursing students have the option to pursue either a bachelor’s or a master’s degree in a traditional or accelerated format. Registered nurses (RNs) can conveniently earn their bachelor’s degree through an online BSN completion program. The master’s program offers specializations in nurse practitioner (available online) or clinical nurse leader. Additionally, SLU provides online options for a doctor of nursing practice and hybrid Ph.D. programs.

Programs:
– Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
– RN-to-BSN
– Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
– Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
– Ph.D.

Campus: St. Louis, Missouri
Type: Private
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition:
– BSN: $24,050 per year full-time, $1,680 per credit hour part-time
– RN-to-BSN: $485 per credit hour
– MSN: $1,150 per credit hour
– DNP: $1,220 per credit hour

Admission Requirements:
– BSN: 3.2 high school GPA; math/science prerequisites
– RN-to-BSN: nursing diploma or associate degree; RN license
– MSN: BSN; 3.2-3.25 GPA; RN license for nurse practitioner track
– DNP: MSN; 3.25 GPA; RN license; advanced practice nursing credentials and experience

Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93.8% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $59,004 for bachelor’s graduates, $92,243 for master’s graduates, and $108,649 for doctoral graduates, as per College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $46,400
– Out-of-state: $46,400
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $21,420
– Out-of-state: $21,420
Retention Rate: 90%
Admission Rate: 56%
Students Enrolled: 12,229
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 74%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#6 University of Missouri-Columbia

Location: Columbia, MO
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus

The University of Missouri-Columbia houses a top nursing school in Missouri, offering campus-based traditional and accelerated bachelor’s in nursing degrees. Online programs include bachelor’s completion for registered nurses (RN-to-BSN) and graduate tracks leading to master’s degrees in nursing and care management, a doctor of nursing practice, and a nursing Ph.D.

Programs:
– Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
– RN-to-BSN
– Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
– Master of Science in Care Management
– Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
– Ph.D.

Campus: Columbia, Missouri
Type: Private
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition:
– BSN: $49,400 per program
– Accelerated BSN: $26,512 per program
– RN-to-BSN: $13,222 per program
– MSN: $19,000-$28,000 per program
– MS Care Management: $19,000 per program
– DNP: $41,228 for BSN entry, $21,670 for MSN entry per program

Admission Requirements:
– BSN: Pre-nursing prerequisites; 3.25 GPA
– Accelerated BSN: Non-nursing bachelor’s; 3.0 GPA
– RN-to-BSN: 2.5 GPA; RN license or eligibility; general education prerequisites

Minimum Time Commitment: 14 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes for BSN programs
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96.4% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $57,066 for bachelor’s graduates, $89,564 for master’s graduates, and $100,008 for doctoral graduates, according to College Scorecard

Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $9,330
– Out-of-state: $27,612
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $9,478
– Out-of-state: $25,946
Retention Rate: 89%
Admission Rate: 82%
Students Enrolled: 31,089
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 87%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#7 Moberly Area Community College

Location: Moberly, MO
Duration: 2 years
Format: Online + Campus

Moberly Area Community College offers nursing programs that include two-year associate and one-year accelerated degrees in nursing, a practical nursing certificate, and certified nursing assistant training. These programs prepare students for entry-level nursing positions or further study, with associate degree graduates eligible to apply for transition to bachelor’s nursing programs in Missouri after passing the NCLEX-RN exam.

Programs:
– Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
– Practical Nursing (LPN) Certificate
– Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

Campus: Moberly, Missouri
Type: Public
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Tuition:
– ADN/PN: $100 per credit hour in-district, $181 in-state, $240 out-of-state
– CNA: $1,000 per program

Admission Requirements:
– ADN: TEAS exam score of 58; 2.7 GPA; prerequisites in math and physiology or microbiology; plus LPN license and 23 college credits for accelerated track
– PN: TEAS exam score of 58; 2.5 GPA; prerequisites in math and human anatomy

Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 91% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $53,608 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard

Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $4,740
– Out-of-state: $6,450
Average Graduate Tuition: Not provided
Retention Rate: 57%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 4,878
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 86%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#8 Crowder College

Location: Neosho, MO
Duration: 2 years
Format: Online + Campus

Crowder College provides an associate degree program in registered nursing (RN) and a certificate program in licensed practical nursing (LPN). LPNs can enter the associate degree program with advanced standing. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX and enter the workforce with entry-level nursing competencies gained through a combination of classroom and hands-on learning.

Program:
– Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN)

Campus: Neosho, Missouri
Type: Public

Accreditation: ASN-Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN); Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Tuition: $118 per credit in-district; $199 per credit out-of-state/district

Admission Requirements:
– ASN: Age of 19 at program completion; high school diploma or GED certificate; 2.75 GPA in general education and 19 ACT score or 3.0 GPA and 18 ACT score; nursing assistant or paramedic certification; plus LPN certificate for advanced standing
– LPN: High school diploma or GED certificate; TEAS exam scores

Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $45,145 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard

Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $3,696
– Out-of-state: $3,696
Average Graduate Tuition: Not provided
Retention Rate: 66%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 4,194
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 60%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#9 St Charles Community College

Location: Cottleville, MO
Duration: 2 years
Format: Online + Campus

St. Charles Community College’s nursing program offers an associate degree that encompasses science and liberal arts courses, nursing lectures and labs, and clinical placements. Advanced placement opportunities are available for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and transfer students. SCCC also provides training for certified nursing assistants and practical nursing.

Programs:
– Associate of Science Degree in Nursing (ADN)
– Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
– Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN)

Campus: Cottleville, Missouri
Type: Public
Accreditation: ASN-Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN); Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Tuition:
– ADN: $221 per credit hour in-district, $274 out-of-district
– PN: $146 per credit hour in-district, $199 out-of-district
– CNA: $550-$600 per program, plus $350 clinical internship

Admission Requirements:
– English and math course completion with a “C” grade or higher, or placement test results; anatomy and physiology course with a “B” grade or higher (“C” accepted for PN); 3.0 college GPA or 2.8 high school or college GPA (2.5 for LPN) with 22 ACT score (or sliding scale GPA/ACT scores); HESI A2 exam score of 75

Minimum Time Commitment: 12-24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $54,109 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard

Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $4,770
– Out-of-state: $6,480
Average Graduate Tuition: Not provided
Retention Rate: 58%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 6,014
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 47%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#10 Cox College

Location: Springfield, MO
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus

Cox College offers undergraduate programs leading to associate and bachelor’s degrees, with accelerated and bridge options for transfers, licensed practical nurses (LPN-to-RN), and registered nurses (RN-to-BSN). Graduate nursing programs culminate in a master’s degree, featuring online coursework and concentrations in family nurse practitioner or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. The nursing program also arranges clinical placements.

Programs:
– Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN)
– Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
– Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Campus: Springfield, Missouri
Type: Private
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN); Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition:
– ASN: $435 per credit hour
– BSN: $420
– RN-to-BSN: $415
– MSN: $600

Admission Requirements:
– ASN/BSN: High school diploma or GED certificate; 2.0 GPA; 18 ACT or 860 SAT scores; 12 college hours for transfers or bachelor’s degree for accelerated; RN license for RN-to-BSN bridge
– LPN-to-RN: Math proficiency; prerequisites; 2.5 GPA in science courses and 3.0 cumulative GPA
– MSN: 3.0 BSN-level GPA; RN license

Minimum Time Commitment: 12-24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 94.4% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $49,613 for associate graduates, $53,358 for bachelor’s graduates, and $97,959 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard

Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $10,080
– Out-of-state: $10,080
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $10,800
– Out-of-state: $10,800

Retention Rate: Not provided
Admission Rate: 100%
Students Enrolled: 975
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 100%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

How to Select a Nursing Program in Missouri

When deciding on a nursing school in Missouri, it’s crucial to consider various factors to ensure you make an informed choice. Look into the degree options available, weigh the costs and financial aid opportunities, examine admission requirements and acceptance rates, assess the National Council Licensure Examination for RNs (NCLEX-RN) pass rates, and understand the logistics of the programs. For those opting for online classes, also investigate the clinical placement options within your community.

As nursing accreditation stands out as a pivotal indicator of program quality, this guide exclusively features accredited programs.

Reasons to Pursue a Nursing Career in Missouri

Investing in nursing education in Missouri offers significant benefits. Missouri’s status as a Nurse Licensure Compact state allows graduates to apply for a multistate license, enhancing career flexibility. With a first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate of 90%, surpassing the national average of 86.6%, Missouri provides a robust foundation for aspiring nurses.

Beyond academics, Missouri boasts a blend of Midwestern and Southern cultures, featuring both vibrant urban centers and serene rural communities. The state’s flourishing food and music scenes, coupled with ample outdoor recreation opportunities, contribute to a well-rounded lifestyle. Additionally, the combination of high RN job growth and a relatively low cost of living makes Missouri an attractive option for nursing professionals.

Salary and Employment Outlook for Nurses in Missouri

Nurses in Missouri enjoy an average salary of $65,900, with nurse practitioners (NPs) earning $106,870. The state’s cost-of-living index at 89.8%, compared to the national average of 100%, further enhances the financial appeal. Missouri not only offers a modest cost of living but also provides government scholarships and financial aid for nurses and primary care providers. Committing to work in medically underserved areas post-graduation may open avenues for loan forgiveness or full nursing scholarships, maximizing the value of your salary.

Top-Paying Cities for Nurses in Missouri

For RNs seeking the highest pay, metropolitan areas with academic medical centers, hospitals, and diverse healthcare settings prove lucrative. The following cities stand out:

Highest-Paying Cities

Top Paying Metropolitan Areas	Median Salary for RNs
Kansas City	$70,240
St. Louis	$68,230
Columbia	$65,270
St. Joseph	$64,560
Jefferson City	$63,560

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)

Steps to Embark on a Nursing Career in Missouri

Upon meeting the nurse licensing requirements in Missouri, aspiring nurses can apply for a state or multi-state nursing license. This process involves passing a criminal background check with fingerprinting.

RN Requirements

The Missouri State Board of Nursing mandates RNs to graduate from an approved professional nursing program. The board approves associate nursing and bachelor’s nursing programs meeting specific criteria for curriculum and exam pass rates.

Prospective students can consult the board for a list of approved programs and detailed education requirements. Before graduation, students may apply to take the NCLEX-RN. Once approved by the board, candidates can take the test and practice for up to 90 days on a temporary nursing license while awaiting official scores. RNs do not need to fulfill continuing education requirements for license renewal, which occurs on April 30 of each odd-numbered year.

Nurses should check with their employers for any workplace-based continuing education requirements not mandated by the state.

APRN Requirements

APRNs in Missouri must complete a graduate nursing program designed for advanced practice. This includes nursing master’s and nursing doctoral programs meeting the state nursing board’s minimum educational standards. Many graduate nursing schools require students to hold an RN license in good standing before starting a program.

Missouri requires APRNs to maintain a valid RN license and a national certification from an approved certifying body. Each certifying body has varying requirements for certification and renewal. Nurses must provide ongoing proof of an active certification to the board.

NPs in Missouri operate under restricted-practice status, necessitating a collaborative practice agreement with a licensed physician for prescribing medications and certain patient treatments. APRNs without national certification may obtain and maintain licensure under different regulations.

Additional Notable Nursing Programs in Missouri

Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Missouri

How long does it take to get an RN license in Missouri?

The timeframe to obtain an RN license in Missouri varies based on factors such as the application process, document submission, and background checks. Applicants should expect some variability in the time required to earn a license.

What are the top employment settings for nurses in Missouri?

As of 2021, the majority of Missouri RNs (60.4%) worked in hospital inpatient care, according to the state board of nursing. Other significant employment settings included physicians’ offices or other ambulatory primary care (6%), long-term care (5%), and home health (3.5%).

How many times can you take the NCLEX in Missouri?

Candidates can take the NCLEX-RN up to eight times per year, with a minimum of 45 days between attempts. Each attempt requires a new application and payment.

The average NCLEX-RN pass rate for nursing schools in Missouri is 90%, surpassing the national average.

What is the median salary for nurses in Missouri?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports the national median RN salary as $75,330. In Missouri, the average salary for RNs is $65,900, and for NPs, it is $106,870. Among Missouri cities, Kansas City boasts the highest average salary for RNs at $70,240.

What is the most common degree for nurses in Missouri?

As of 2021, the state board of nursing reports that the most common degree for RNs in Missouri is a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), with 53.8% of nurses holding this degree. Additionally, 31.2% have earned an associate degree in nursing, 7.1% have a master’s degree, and nurses with a doctorate are relatively rare at 0.1%.