Best Nursing Schools in Iowa | 2025

Iowa's top nursing schools offer comprehensive training, from undergraduate programs like ADN and BSN to advanced graduate degrees such as a Master's or Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP), preparing students for roles as a Nurse Practitioner or Nurse Anesthetist. These programs equip nurses with hands-on experience to address Iowa's healthcare needs across urban and rural settings.

Explore our guide to the best nursing schools in Kansas, offering insights into educational pathways, reasons to pursue nursing in the state, tips for selecting the right nursing school to advance your career, and salary expectations upon graduation.

Best Nursing Schools in Iowa - Online & On-Campus

Why Become a Nurse in Iowa?

Choosing a nursing career in Iowa offers rewarding opportunities, job security, and the chance to make a significant impact on public health. Here's why Iowa is a compelling choice for aspiring nurses:

• High Demand for Nurses:Iowa continues to face a critical nursing shortage, with nearly 70% of healthcare facilities still struggling to fill open positions due to a lack of qualified candidates. The shortage, particularly in rural areas, is compounded by limited capacity in nursing schools. Recent legislative efforts aim to expand nursing education and increase the workforce, ensuring strong job prospects statewide.
• Job Security: With over 50% of Iowa's RNs now over the age of 50 and retirement rates rising, the need for new nurses remains urgent. Declining graduation rates in nursing programs add to the challenge. Expanded educational pathways and support for nursing faculty are helping to secure long-term job stability, particularly in underserved areas.
• Diverse Clinical Settings: Iowa offers a range of clinical environments, from major healthcare institutions in urban centers like Des Moines to smaller, community-focused facilities in rural areas. Key hospitals, such as UnityPoint Health and University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, provide advanced care in specialties like oncology, cardiology, and neurology. These teaching hospitals offer nurses opportunities to gain experience in cutting-edge research and specialized care. Meanwhile, rural hospitals and clinics allow nurses to address the unique healthcare challenges faced by underserved populations, offering a more intimate, community-centered experience. This diversity in clinical settings ensures that Iowa nurses can find environments that align with their professional interests and career goals.
• Public Health and Community Impact: Iowa nurses play a critical role in managing public health challenges, particularly in rural areas, which face significant healthcare shortages. As of 2023, a third of Iowa's counties are considered "maternity care deserts," meaning they lack OB/GYNs and birthing facilities. This shortage has contributed to increased risks for maternal and infant health, particularly preterm births and maternal morbidity. Nurses in Iowa are essential for addressing these disparities by providing critical services in both maternal care and chronic disease management, and by responding to public health emergencies across the state
• Career Advancement Opportunities: Iowa offers robust career advancement opportunities through graduate nursing programs at institutions like the University of Iowa and Allen College. These programs prepare nurses for advanced practice roles such as Nurse Practitioners (NP), Certified Nurse Midwives (CNM), Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS), and Nurse Anesthetists (CRNA). They equip nurses with the specialized skills needed to take on leadership roles and contribute to improving healthcare outcomes across Iowa, particularly in underserved rural areas.
• Financial Advantage: While nursing salaries in Iowa may be slightly below the national average, the state's significantly lower cost of living helps offset this difference. Iowa's affordable housing, utilities, and general living expenses allow nurses to stretch their income, particularly when compared to higher-cost regions. Additionally, Iowa offers financial support and recruitment programs, including loan forgiveness and scholarships, particularly for nurses working in underserved rural areas, making advanced nursing degrees more accessible and improving long-term earning potential.

With its high demand for healthcare professionals, varied clinical settings, and robust educational pathways, Iowa is an excellent state for those looking to start or advance their nursing careers.

Steps to Become a Nurse in Iowa

Becoming a nurse in Iowa involves several key steps, each designed to ensure that you are well-prepared to provide high-quality care to patients. Whether you aim to become a Registered Nurse (RN) or advance your career as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), following the right educational and licensure pathways is crucial.

RN Requirements in Iowa

1. Complete an Accredited Nursing Program: Earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited nursing school.
2. Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam: After completing your nursing degree, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to obtain licensure.
3. Apply for RN Licensure: Submit an application for RN licensure to the Iowa Board of Nursing (BON). This process typically involves providing your transcripts, proof of passing the NCLEX-RN, and completing a background check. For details specific to Iowa, be sure to check the IA BON website.
4. Obtain a Nursing License: Once your application is approved, you will be issued an RN license, allowing you to practice as a Registered Nurse in Iowa.
5. Pursue Continuing Education: In Iowa, RNs are required to complete 36 hours of continuing education (CE) credits every three years for license renewal. While the Iowa Board of Nursing BON does not specify particular course requirements within these credits, it's essential to review the BON website to ensure your CE credits meet eligibility criteria.

APRN Requirements in Iowa

1. Obtain and Maintain an RN License: Before pursuing APRN certification, you must be a licensed RN in Iowa.
2. Earn a Graduate Degree: Complete a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with a specialization in an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) role — e.g., Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Anesthetist, Nurse Midwife.
3. Gain Clinical Experience: APRN programs require specific clinical hours based on your specialty and degree. All graduate-level nursing programs mandate a minimum of 500 clinical hours post-graduate. The National Task Force Standards for NP Education requires at least 750 hands-on clinical hours for NP graduates, while DNP programs require a minimum of 1,000 hours. These hands-on experiences are crucial for developing advanced nursing skills.
4. Pass a National Certification Exam: After completing your graduate program, you must pass a national certification exam specific to your APRN role and specialization.
   • CNMs via the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB).
   • CNSs via the  National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists (NACNS) or the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). 
   • NPs via the American Association of Nurse Practitioners  American Nurses(AANP) or the Credentialing Center (ANCC).
   • CRNA's via  the National Board of Certification CRNA (NBCRNA).
5. Apply for APRN Licensure: Submit an application for APRN licensure to the Iowa Board of Nursing. This may require documentation of your active RN license, advanced nursing degree, APRN certification exam results, and clinical experience. APRN license requirements vary by state, as each state has its own scope of practice regulations for APRNs. Be sure to check your Iowa's specific guidelines to understand the requirements and scope of practice.
6. Maintain Certification and Licensure: APRNs in Iowa must keep both their national certification and state licensure current. National certification is tied to your specific APRN specialty and must be maintained according to the requirements set by the national certifying body. For state licensure renewal with prescriptive authority, Iowa requires Advanced Registrered NPs (ARNP) to complete RN license renewal along with proof of opioid prescribing CE credits. 

Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Iowa

Salary expectations in 2025 are based on geography, experience level, education, type of nursing specialties, and the types of industry that the nurse works in.

According to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the national mean annual wage for an RN is $94,480, with the lowest 10th percentile making $63,720 and the 90th percentile making $132,680 annually. The highest employment levels were nurses in general medicine and surgical hospitals, making an annual $96,830.

Registered Nurses salary in Iowa is lower than the national average at a mean annual salary of $74,610 or $35.87 an hour. 

The highest salary states for RNs include:

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

While the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not distinguish between nursing degree levels in its data, most nurses who pursue advanced degrees, such as an MSN or DNP, aim to become Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) — which includes Nurse Practitioners (NPs), Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs), and Nurse Anesthetists (DNAP/CRNAs).

According to the BLS, the median annual salary for APRNs is $129,480, with employment in these roles expected to grow by 40% from 2023 to 2033, reflecting strong demand for advanced practice nurses.

In Iowa, APRNs earn the following mean annual salaries:

• Nurse Practitioners: $130.820.00
• Certified Nurse Midwives: $124,040.00
• Nurse Anesthetists: $227,710.00

^{Note: Although Clinical Nurse Specialists are also APRNs BLS does not provide information on CNS salary.}

How to Choose a Nursing Program in Iowa

Selecting the right nursing program depends on various personal preferences. Some students emphasize tuition costs, while others prioritize pass rates, academic reputation, or other considerations. 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-RN Pass Rates 
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 Course

For prospective doctorate and master's degree nursing students, additional considerations include:

• Specialization: Ensure the program offers the right focus for your chosen specialty concentration.
• Certification and Licensure: Meets APRN certification and state licensure requirements.
• Certification Pass Rates: Check program national certification success rates.
• Clinical Training: Diverse, high-quality clinical placements and/or clinical placement support.
• Faculty Expertise: Qualified and experienced faculty.
• Support Services: Mentoring, career services, and academic support.
• Technology and Resources: Access to advanced technology and resources.
• Alumni Network: Strong network for job placement and growth.
• Interprofessional Education: Collaborative learning with other healthcare professionals.
• State Regulations: Ensure your program is approved by the state Board of Nursing in the state where you want to work.

Choosing the right program should be based on your personal preferences and learning style. If you prefer a more flexible schedule and a longer duration for coursework and clinical practice, consider a traditional nursing program. Conversely, if you are eager to complete your education quickly and thrive in an intensive, fast-paced learning environment, an accelerated nursing program might be the better choice.

Importance of Picking an Accredited Nursing School in  Iowa

Choosing to attend an accredited nursing school in Iowa is important for several reasons:

• Assurance of Educational Quality: Accredited nursing schools undergo rigorous evaluations to ensure their curriculum, faculty, and clinical training meet high standards. This guarantees that students receive a comprehensive and up-to-date education, equipping them with the skills needed for successful nursing careers.
• Licensing Requirements: Graduation from an accredited program is often necessary to meet state licensure requirements. Without attending an accredited school, students may find it challenging or even impossible to obtain the necessary credentials to practice as a registered nurse.
• Enhanced Career Opportunities: Employers prioritize hiring graduates from accredited nursing programs because these programs are recognized for maintaining high educational standards. This preference can lead to better job prospects and career advancement opportunities in the nursing field.
• Ease of Credit Transfer: Credits earned at an accredited nursing school are more likely to be recognized and accepted by other institutions. This is particularly important for students who may wish to transfer schools or pursue further education, such as a Master's or Doctoral degree in nursing.
• Professional Credibility: Completing a program at an accredited nursing school adds to a nurse's professional credibility. It demonstrates that their education aligns with national standards, which is essential for advancing in the nursing profession.
• Eligibility for Financial Aid: Accreditation is often a prerequisite for accessing federal financial aid, including grants and loans. Attending an accredited school ensures that students can receive the financial support they need to complete their education.

Given these points, it's important prospective students research whether their choice of nursing school is accredited by a recognized body such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), or the NLN Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA).

More Top Nursing Programs in Iowa

If you're interested in a specific nursing degree or specialty, we've got you covered. Explore our comprehensive guides to nursing programs across Iowa, tailored to various career paths and levels. Find the best program for you, whether you're looking to advance your nursing career or specialize in a specific area. Check out these resources:

Undergraduate Nursing Programs

• Best RN to BSN Programs 2025
• Best Accelerated BSN Programs 2025

Graduate Nursing Programs

• Best MSN Programs 2025
• Best DNP Programs 2025
• Best NP Programs in Iowa 2025

Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Iowa

Q: Is it possible to enroll in a BSN program in Iowa without patient care experience?

Patient care experience is not always required for direct-entry BSN programs, but it can enhance your application. Some undergraduate nursing programs, particularly RN to BSN and accelerated and second-degree BSN (ABSN) tracks, may prioritize applicants with healthcare experience.

For master's programs and other graduate-level programs in nursing, patient care experience is a standard prerequisite.

Q: Can out-of-state students enroll in Iowa nursing programs?

Yes, out-of-state students can enroll in Iowa nursing programs, though they may encounter higher tuition rates compared to in-state residents. Iowa's residency requirements for in-state tuition generally involve living in the state for at least 12 months prior to enrollment.

It is important for prospective students to verify licensure eligibility in the state where they plan to work after graduation, as not all nursing programs automatically qualify graduates for RN or APRN licensure in certain states. This information can typically be confirmed on both the school's website and the state Board of Nursing.

Q: Are there online options for completing a bachelor's degree or master's degree in Iowa?

Many Iowa nursing programs offer online or hybrid formats, especially at the MSN level. Online nursing programs typically combine online coursework with in-person clinical requirements, offering flexibility for students who may not be able to attend on-campus classes full-time.

Q: How much does it cost to attend a nursing program in Iowa?

Nursing program tuition costs in Iowa vary widely depending on the program and institution. RN to BSN programs can start as low as $9,900 at Briar Cliff University, while traditional BSN programs range from $38,000 to over $153,000 at schools like Allen College, the University of Iowa, and Clarke University. Graduate programs, such as BSN to DNP, can cost over $70,000 at Clarke University, or as low as $30,000 at Briar Cliff University.

Nursing program costs in Iowa vary significantly, making financial planning essential when evaluating which nursing school is best for you. 

Edited Oct 19 by Erin Lee