9 Best Associate in Nursing Programs in Missouri in 2024

Becoming a registered nurse (RN) in Missouri involves exploring several educational pathways. Among them the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), the Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN), and the Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS) are some of the fastest and most popular options.

Considering this, we've provided everything you need to know to apply for an associate focused in nursing in Missouri, along with salary expectations after graduation and recommendations for the best programs in the state.

Best Associate in Nursing Programs in Missouri

The following schools have been selected based on allnurses' methodology of surveying our readers to understand what they value most while selecting schools with the addition of NCLEX pass rates, graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, and admission rate of hundreds of the most prominent nursing schools in the United States.

1. St. Charles Community College

St. Charles Community College, located in Cottleville, offers an ASN (Associate of Science in Nursing) program with an estimated annual cost of $4,575. The program showcases an impressive 95% NCLEX pass rate and holds ACEN accreditation, ensuring students receive a high-quality nursing education.

2. State Fair Community College

State Fair Community College in Sedalia presents an AAS (Associate of Applied Science in Nursing) program with an estimated annual cost of $6,419. Despite lacking formal accreditation, the program is fully approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing (MSBN) and maintains an outstanding 98%.

3. Ozarks Technical Community College

Ozarks Technical Community College in Springfield provides an ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) program with an estimated annual cost of $8,710. The program boasts a 94% NCLEX pass rate and holds ACEN accreditation, preparing students for a successful career in nursing through quality education and training.

What Is an Associate in Nursing?

ADN, AAS, and ASN are entry-level degrees that provide students with the necessary knowledge and skills to become RNs. Upon completion of an associate program with a focus on nursing, students are eligible to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become licensed.

Associate in Nursing Coursework

The robust curriculum, including a blend of classwork and hands-on coursework, means students will be well prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam and begin in a clinical nurse role upon graduation. Since associate nursing students work towards an associate of applied science, coursework in general education and nursing is required. Standard classes include:

• Fundamentals of Nursing
• Nursing care of adults
• Community Health Nursing
• Behavioral Health
• Microbiology
• Humanities
• Psychology
• Anatomy and physiology
• Chemistry

Can Associate in Nursing Programs Be Taken Entirely Online?

Acquiring nursing skills requires hands-on learning and real-life practice, which can't be fully replicated in an entirely online environment for an initial nursing degree. Because of this, associate programs aren't entirely online, as in-person skills training and direct patient care experiences in healthcare facilities are needed. However, many programs offer online coursework options, providing a hybrid environment for working students or those requiring more flexible schedules.

Where Do Associate-Prepared Nurses Work?

Nurses with an ADN, ASN, or AAS have many career options and opportunities and can practice in most care settings, including:

• Hospitals
• Nursing Homes
• Home Care Agencies
• Physician Office
• Educational Services
• Government Agencies
• Schools
• Community Centers
• Hospices
• Dialysis Centers
• Telephonic and Virtual Care Settings

Associate in Nursing Prerequisites and Requirements

Acceptance to an associate in nursing program comes with several prerequisites and requirements, including:

• Proof of Prior Education: Verification of high school diploma or GED.
• Prerequisite studies: Research your program for the exact courses needed.
• Pre-Entrance Exam: Tests like the TEAS or HESI.
• CPR Certification: Varying depending on the program.
• Criminal Background Check: To ensure patient safety.

Cost of Associate Nursing Programs in Missouri

The expenses associated with pursuing an Associate in Nursing in Missouri are influenced by various factors. Consider the following key financial elements when planning your nursing education budget:

Tuition: Tuition fees can vary greatly between public and private schools in Missouri, as well as between in-state and out-of-state students. Generally, private institutions and out-of-state tuition rates tend to be higher.

Supplies: This category includes expenses for textbooks, medical supplies, and other essential educational materials. These costs can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars.

Technology Fees: Students enrolled in hybrid or online ADN programs may face additional expenses for technology, software, or digital learning tools.

Lab & Clinical Fees: Some courses may require fees for specific materials or equipment necessary for hands-on training.

Miscellaneous Fees: Often overlooked, these fees may include costs for applications, ID badges, graduation, and other administrative expenses essential to your education.

Living Expenses: The cost of living—including food, housing, utilities, and personal expenses—is particularly relevant for students who plan to study full-time without working or those who are considering relocating for their studies.

Understanding the financial requirements of an ADN program in Missouri is essential for effective financial planning and maintaining focus on your educational objectives. Exploring the Most Affordable ADN Programs available in 2024 can also help manage your educational expenses more effectively.

Associate in Nursing Salary Expectations in Missouri

In the ever-evolving landscape of nursing salaries, the difference between ADN and BSN-prepared registered nurses is significant. Although BSN RNs typically command higher salaries, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not distinguish between the two in its reporting. 

RNs nationally earn:

• Mean Hourly Wage: $45.42
• Mean Annual Wage: $94,480.00

As reported by the BLS, registered nurses in Missouri earned salaries below the national average in 2023. With 73,190 RNs employed, Missouri is positioned in the 50-75th percentile for RN employment on a national scale.

 RNs in Missouri earn:

• Mean Hourly Wage: $37.30
• Mean Annual Wage: $77,590.00

The highest paying states for RN's are:

• California: $137,690.00
• Hawaii: $119,710.00
• Massachusetts: $113,440.00
• Oregon: $111,030.00
• Alaska: $109,210.00

While the BLS does not provide data to compare ADN RN to BSN RN salary, ZipRecrutier's reports identify a difference in salary. 

BSN RNs in Missouri earn an average wage of:

• Hourly Wage: $35.00
• Annual Wage: $73,790.00

ADN RNs in Missouri earn an average wage of:

• Hourly Wage: $33.00
• Annual Wage: $68,480.00

Cities with the highest ADN RN salary in Missouri are: 

• Chesterfield: $79,909.00
• St. Joseph: $74,260.00
• Independence: $73,702.00
• Lee's Summit: $73,107.00
• St. Louis: $71,208.00

Understanding the salary outlook for ADN RNs in Missouri is crucial for those considering this career path. While ADN RNs earn respectable salaries, BSN-prepared nurses typically have higher earning potential and broader career opportunities. Although the salaries for BSN and ADN RNs in Missouri may seem comparable, this may not always hold true depending on your specialty or if you relocate.

Nursing salaries can be influenced by various factors, including specialty, experience, and employer, and prospective nurses should carefully consider these factors when planning their educational and professional paths.

Is Pursuing an Associate Degree in Nursing in Missouri Worth It?

An associate degree in nursing provides a swift and cost-effective route into the nursing field, meeting the ongoing demand for healthcare professionals in Missouri. Like any significant decision, enrolling in an ADN program has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Pros of ADN Programs in Missouri

1. Quick Entry into the Workforce: ADN programs usually take about two years to complete, allowing graduates to start their nursing careers faster compared to those pursuing a four-year BSN.
2. Cost-Effective: ADN programs, particularly at community colleges, tend to be less expensive than BSN programs, making them a more affordable option for students seeking a budget-friendly education path.
3. Accessible Options: Numerous community colleges and technical schools throughout Missouri offer ADN programs, making them accessible to a diverse student population.
4. Preparation for NCLEX-RN: ADN programs are designed to thoroughly prepare students for the NCLEX-RN, the required licensure exam to become a registered nurse.
5. Flexible Scheduling: Many ADN programs offer flexible schedules, including evening and weekend classes, which are ideal for students balancing work or family commitments.
6. High Demand for Nurses: There is a strong demand for registered nurses in various healthcare settings across Missouri, increasing the likelihood of employment for ADN graduates.
7. Pathways to Further Education: Many ADN programs provide seamless transition options to BSN programs through bridge programs, facilitating continued education and career growth.

Cons of ADN Programs in Missouri

1. Competitive Employment Market: In a competitive job market, nurses with a BSN often have an advantage over those with an ADN, especially in hospitals and healthcare facilities that prefer higher educational qualifications.
2. Potential for Lower Salaries: Nurses with an ADN may earn lower salaries compared to their BSN-prepared peers, as some employers offer higher pay to those with more advanced degrees.
3. Evolving Educational Requirements: There is a growing trend towards requiring a BSN for registered nurses, with many employers preferring or mandating a bachelor's degree. This may necessitate further education for ADN graduates to remain competitive and meet changing employer expectations.
4. Less Comprehensive Education: ADN programs may offer a less comprehensive curriculum compared to BSN programs, potentially leaving graduates with fewer skills in areas such as leadership, public health, and research methodologies.
5. Need for Further Education: While an ADN allows graduates to practice as registered nurses, advancing into specialized or administrative roles often requires additional education, such as obtaining a BSN or MSN. Positions in research, public health, or management typically require higher qualifications.
6. Limited Networking Opportunities: BSN programs often provide more extensive networking opportunities with professionals in specialized fields and healthcare leaders, which can be crucial for career advancement and job placement.
7. Long-Term Educational Costs: Although ADN programs are more affordable initially, the need for further education to obtain a BSN or higher degree can result in higher overall educational costs in the long term.

Choosing an ADN program in Missouri offers considerable benefits and a solid foundation for a nursing career. However, it's important to consider your long-term career aspirations and educational needs when making this decision.

How to Choose a Nursing School

Reasons for choosing a nursing school will vary per student and their specific needs. Some students value the cost of education, while others may place greater emphasis on NCLEX pass rates, academic reputation, or other factors.

Although it will vary by individual, a survey by allnurses revealed the top 11 reasons nursing students chose their programs:

1. Cost
2. High NCLEX Pass Rate
3. Location
4. Academic Reputation
5. Availability of Financial Aid and Scholarships
6. Length of Time to Obtain Degree
7. Flexibility of Schedule
8. Curriculum
9. Campus and Surroundings
10. Nursing Clinicals Location
11. Availability of Online Courses

Ultimately, prospective students should assess their needs and pick schools that best fit them.

Associate Nursing Program Accreditation in Missouri

Accreditation is another crucial factor to consider when choosing an associate in nursing program in Missouri, especially for those planning their career and educational paths. Here's why accreditation is important:

• Educational Quality: Accredited nursing programs in Missouri adhere to stringent standards in curriculum development, faculty qualifications, resource allocation, and clinical training, ensuring the education provided meets or exceeds national benchmarks.
• NCLEX-RN Exam Preparation: Enrolling in an accredited program significantly enhances your preparation for the NCLEX-RN exam, increasing your chances of passing on the first attempt.
• Licensing Flexibility: While a state-approved program allows you to practice within Missouri, the lack of accreditation might restrict your ability to obtain licensure in other states without additional accredited education.
• Employment Prospects: Employers often prefer graduates from accredited programs because their education aligns with national standards, which aids in job placement and facilitates easier transitions across state lines for career opportunities.
• Credit Transferability: Credits earned from an accredited program are more likely to be recognized by other educational institutions, which is crucial for those looking to further their education with degrees such as a BSN, MSN, or DNP.
• Professional Reputation: A degree from an accredited program enhances your professional standing by aligning your education with recognized standards and advancing nursing practices.
• Access to Financial Aid: Accreditation is essential for eligibility for federal financial aid, a significant consideration for many students.

Prospective nurses in Missouri are encouraged to select programs accredited by esteemed organizations such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the National League for Nursing's Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA). While the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) is highly respected, only provieds accreditation for bachelor's and graduate nursing programs. 

FAQ and Additional Readings

Q: How do I transfer my nursing license to Missouri?

Missouri is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing nurses to practice in other NLC states without additional steps. You do not have to transfer your license if moving from an NLC state.

Q: Are there specialization programs for nurses in Missouri?

Many schools in Missouri offer advanced nursing degrees, allowing RNs to specialize in pediatric, geriatric, family nurse practitioner, acute care, and more.

Q: Is it better to have an associate in nursing or a BSN?

While obtaining an RN license after completing an ADN is possible, the opportunities after graduation and beyond are more significant with a BSN degree. BSNs focus more on research, leadership skills, and evidence-based practice, whereas an ADN primarily focuses on clinical skills.

Additionally, many healthcare institutions require BSN-prepared RNs to fulfill various accreditation and Joint Commission requirements and achieve Magnet status prestige.

Edited May 14 by Erin Lee
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