Best Nursing Schools in Missouri | 2025

From entry-level nursing programs to graduate degrees equipping students to become advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), discover the best nursing schools in Missouri.

Best Missouri Nursing Schools
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Article fact-checked by our Editorial Team.

Missouri, renowned for its thriving healthcare sector and academic diversity, offers a wide array of nursing programs designed to cater to diverse career aspirations.

Whether you're contemplating an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) for a swift entry into the nursing profession, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) for a comprehensive educational foundation, or advanced degrees such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) for specialized roles, Missouri provides a wealth of opportunities.

Whether you're starting your nursing journey or advancing your career, explore Missouri's top nursing schools and gain insights into studying in the Show-Me State, along with expected salaries after graduation.

Best Nursing Schools in Missouri 2025 — Online & On-Campus

The selection of the following nursing schools relies on a comprehensive methodology that includes direct input from our readers, extensive data analysis, and continuous updates to ensure accuracy and relevance. Our team of Data Analysts dedicates over 100 hours weekly to refine our database, incorporating critical criteria like reader surveys, graduation rates, cost of attendance, mode of delivery, admission rates, and more elements valued by our community.

*Tuitions are subject to change based on a student's number of transfer credits, yearly increases, and more. Our rankings are based on the latest college data from the U.S. Department of Education complemented by additional insights from our analysts.

  1. #1 University of Missouri, Columbia

    allnurses College Ranking: A
    0 reviews

    University of Missouri, Columbia is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, DNP, MSN, PhD, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • 105 Jesse Hall, Columbia, Missouri 65211, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Missouri
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 72% Acceptance Rate
    • 72% Graduation Rate
    • 23,206 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 7,559 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 20 Average Age
    • 45% Men
    • 55% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 87% White
    • 2% Hispanic
    • 8% Black
    • 2% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  2. #2 Barnes-Jewish College Goldfarb School of Nursing

    allnurses College Ranking: A
    0 reviews

    Barnes-Jewish College Goldfarb School of Nursing is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, MSN, DNP, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and COA and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • 4483 Duncan Avenue, Mailstop 90-36-697, Saint Louis, Missouri 63110, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Missouri
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Special Focus Four-Year: Other Health Professions Schools
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • 93% Graduation Rate
    • 415 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 78 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 26 Average Age
    • 12% Men
    • 88% Women
    • 2% Veterans
    • 78% White
    • 2% Hispanic
    • 18% Black
    • 2% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  3. #3 Saint Louis University

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Saint Louis University is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, BSN to PhD, MSN to PhD, CNL, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • One North Grand Blvd, Saint Louis, Missouri 63103, US
    • 1-314-977-8900

    School Overview

    • Located in Missouri
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 85% Acceptance Rate
    • 72% Graduation Rate
    • 7,332 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 5,093 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 39% Men
    • 61% Women
    • 3% Veterans
    • 83% White
    • 4% Hispanic
    • 12% Black
    • 2% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  4. #4 University of Missouri, St Louis

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    University of Missouri, St Louis is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, DNP, PhD, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • One University Boulevard, Saint Louis, Missouri 63121, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Missouri
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 51% Acceptance Rate
    • 59% Graduation Rate
    • 5,378 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 2,766 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 25 Average Age
    • 44% Men
    • 56% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 77% White
    • 2% Hispanic
    • 20% Black
    • 2% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  5. #5 Maryville University of Saint Louis

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    Maryville University of Saint Louis is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including LPN to BSN, BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNP, BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • 650 Maryville University Drive, Saint Louis, Missouri 63141, US
    • 1-314-529-9300

    School Overview

    • Located in Missouri
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 88% Acceptance Rate
    • 57% Graduation Rate
    • 5,781 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 4,150 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 23 Average Age
    • 32% Men
    • 68% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 89% White
    • 2% Hispanic
    • 8% Black
    • 1% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  6. #6 Cox College

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    Cox College is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of on-campus, and online programs—including ADN/ASN, BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, and NP degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • 1423 N Jefferson, Springfield, Missouri 65802, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Missouri
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Special Focus Four-Year: Other Health Professions Schools
    • 58% Graduation Rate
    • 677 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 175 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 29 Average Age
    • 13% Men
    • 87% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 95% White
    • 2% Hispanic
    • 2% Black
    • 1% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  7. #7 Southeast Missouri State University

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    Southeast Missouri State University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of , on-campus, and online programs—including , BSN, and MSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • One University Plaza, MS2025, Cape Girardeau, Missouri 63701, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Missouri
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Larger Programs
    • 86% Acceptance Rate
    • 49% Graduation Rate
    • 7,010 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 1,473 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 40% Men
    • 60% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 87% White
    • 1% Hispanic
    • 10% Black
    • 1% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  8. #8 University of Missouri, Kansas City

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    University of Missouri, Kansas City is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of , hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, DNP, BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, BSN to PhD, MSN to PhD, CRNA, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    School Overview

    • Located in Missouri
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 69% Acceptance Rate
    • 54% Graduation Rate
    • 6,479 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 5,524 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 23 Average Age
    • 40% Men
    • 60% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 79% White
    • 5% Hispanic
    • 15% Black
    • 2% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  9. #9 Missouri State University, Springfield

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    Missouri State University, Springfield is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including MA, BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, DNP, BSN to DNP, DNAP, CRNA, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • 901 S National Avenue, Springfield, Missouri 65897, US
    • 1-417-836-5310

    School Overview

    • Located in Missouri
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 93% Acceptance Rate
    • 57% Graduation Rate
    • 13,332 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 4,116 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 40% Men
    • 60% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 92% White
    • 2% Hispanic
    • 4% Black
    • 1% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  10. #10 St Charles Community College

    allnurses College Ranking: C+
    0 reviews

    St Charles Community College is a public and non-profit Community College. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including LPN/LVN, ADN/ASN, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • 4601 Mid Rivers Mall Dr, Cottleville, Missouri 63376, US
    • 1-636-922-8280

    School Overview

    • Located in Missouri
    • Less-than-4-year institution
    • Associate's Colleges: High Transfer-High Traditional
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • 24% Graduation Rate
    • 5,250 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 23 Average Age
    • 41% Men
    • 59% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 91% White
    • 2% Hispanic
    • 6% Black
    • 1% Asian
    * tuition estimated
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Why Become a Nurse in Missouri?

Choosing a nursing career in Missouri brings rewarding opportunities, strong job stability, and the chance to make a real impact on public health. Here's why Missouri is an attractive state for aspiring nurses:

  • High Demand for Nurses: Missouri ranks in the 75th percentile nationally for both RN and NP employment, making it an excellent location for nursing careers at all levels. This high demand provides strong job prospects and career growth opportunities across the state.
  • Job Security: According to the 2024 Workforce Report Missouri is projected to experience a persistent nursing shortage, with RN vacancy and turnover rates remaining above pre-pandemic levels. This ongoing demand for registered nurses provides strong job stability for nursing professionals across diverse healthcare settings in Missouri.
  • Diverse Clinical Settings: Missouri's healthcare system offers a wide variety of clinical environments, from major urban hospitals in St. Louis and Kansas City to rural clinics serving smaller communities. This diversity enables nurse practitioners to choose settings that align with their career goals, whether they prefer the fast pace of urban hospitals or the close-knit feel of rural healthcare facilities.
  • Financial Advantages: Although Missouri's nursing salaries fall below the national average, the state's lower cost of living can make it a financially sound choice for nurses. This balance between income and affordability allows nurses in Missouri to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle and stable career opportunities.
  • Public Health Impact and Emergency Preparedness: Missouri faces unique public health challenges, including seasonal flooding, tornadoes, and severe storms, making nurses essential to the state's emergency preparedness and response efforts. Nurses in Missouri play critical roles in disaster response, reinforcing their importance to public health and community safety.
  • Career Advancement Opportunities: Missouri is home to a variety of robust nursing programs that provide clear paths for nurses seeking advanced practice roles. Leading institutions, including the University of Missouri and Missouri State University, offer popular specialization options for aspiring Nurse Practitioners (NPs), Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs), Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs), and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs).

Missouri's unique combination of high demand, diverse clinical environments, financial perks, and specialized graduate pathways makes it an ideal choice for those looking to build or advance a nursing career.

Steps to Become a Nurse in Missouri

Becoming a nurse in Missouri 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 Missouri

  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 Missouri 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 Missouri, be sure to check the MO 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 Missouri.
  5. Pursue Continuing Education: In Missouri, RNs are not required to complete continuing education unies (CEUs) for license renewal, for more details visit the MO BON website.

APRN Requirements in Missouri

  1. Obtain an RN License: Before pursuing APRN certification, you must be a licensed RN in Missouri.
  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 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 Missouri Board of Nursing. This may require documentation of your RN license, advanced nursing degree, APRN certification exam results, and clinical experience.
  6. Maintain Certification and Licensure: APRNs in Missouri must meet both state licensure and national certification requirements. For APRN license renewal, review the Missouri Board of Nursing website for specific guidelines.

Missouri Nurse Salary & Employment Outlook 2025 

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 Missouri is lower than the national average at a mean annual salary of $77,590 or $37.30 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 Missouri, APRNs earn the following mean annual salaries:

  • Nurse Practitioners: $116,680.00
  • Certified Nurse Midwives: $122,900.00
  • Nurse Anesthetists: $230,470.00

How to Choose a Nursing Program in Missouri

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 Missouri

Choosing to attend an accredited nursing school in Missouri 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 & Schools in Missouri

If you're interested in a specific nursing degree or specialty, we've got you covered. Explore our comprehensive guides to nursing programs across Missouri, 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:

Missouri Nursing Schools By City:

Undergraduate Nursing Programs in Missouri

Graduate Nursing Programs in Missouri

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is it better to have an ADN or BSN in Missouri?

When choosing between an ADN and a BSN in Missouri, it's crucial to consider the key factors.

  • An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is a 2-year program offered at community colleges or vocational schools, providing a quicker, cost-effective path to RN licensure. While it allows for faster entry into nursing, it may offer limited career advancement due to evolving industry requirements.
  • A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a 4-year degree from universities or colleges, offering a comprehensive education that employers increasingly prefer and is often required for Magnet status hospitals. Although it provides more robust career options, it involves a longer time commitment and higher tuition costs.

Your choice depends on your career goals, timeline, and finances. ADN offers quicker entry, while BSN provides comprehensive education and better career prospects.

Q: Is it better to have an MSN or DNP in Missouri?

The decision between an MSN and a DNP depends on career goals and interests.

  • A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is designed for advanced practice roles, such as nurse practitioners, offering a quicker path to advanced clinical practice with a strong patient care focus.
  • The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is aimed at nurses seeking leadership roles or advanced clinical expertise. It provides the highest level of clinical training, focusing on advocacy and research, making it ideal for those who want to influence healthcare policy and contribute to research.

Choose based on career aspirations—MSN for clinical practice, DNP for leadership and influence.

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