Best Nursing Schools in Nebraska | 2025

Nebraska'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 like Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Anesthetist, and various other advanced nursing specialties. These programs equip nurses with hands-on experience to address Nebraska's healthcare needs across urban and rural settings.

Explore our guide to the best nursing schools in Nebraska, 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 Nebraska - Online & On-Campus

Why Become a Nurse in Nebraska?

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

• High Demand for Nurses: Nebraska is facing a critical nursing shortage, with a projected shortfall of 5,435 nurses by 2025. More than two-thirds of Nebraska's counties have fewer registered nurses per capita than the national average, and many rural areas are designated as medically underserved. In fact, nine counties in Nebraska have no registered nurses at all, exacerbating the healthcare access crisis in rural regions. The combination of an aging population and the growing demand for healthcare services further underscores the urgent need for more nurses across the state.
• Improved Working Conditions: The Nebraska Hospital Association (NHA) is working to address Nebraska's nursing retention crisis by advocating for policies that improve working conditions. This includes efforts to address burnout, which affects more than half of the state's nurses, and initiatives that promote work-life balance, flexible scheduling, and mentorship programs. Additionally, financial incentives such as retention bonuses and better mental health resources are being proposed to retain experienced nurses and keep them in patient care roles.
• Public Health and Community Impact: Nurses are vital to Nebraska's healthcare system, particularly in rural and underserved areas. With 66 counties classified as medically underserved, many residents face limited access to essential healthcare services, which has resulted in poorer health outcomes. Nurses play a critical role in managing chronic diseases and improving care delivery in these regions. To address these shortages, the state has developed initiatives aimed at retaining healthcare professionals and ensuring that rural areas continue to have access to critical services.
• Diverse Clinical Settings: Nebraska offers a broad range of clinical environments, from large healthcare systems like Nebraska Medicine and Catholic Health Initiatives (CHI) to smaller rural hospitals and community clinics. This diversity provides nurses with the opportunity to experience both fast-paced, specialized care in urban settings and more intimate, community-centered care in rural regions. Nurses working in Nebraska can align their career aspirations with varied clinical experiences, addressing unique healthcare challenges, particularly in medically underserved areas across the state.
• Career Advancement Opportunities: Nebraska offers excellent career advancement opportunities for nurses through graduate programs at institutions like the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) and Creighton University. These programs prepare nurses for advanced roles such as Nurse Practitioners (NP), Certified Nurse Midwives (CNM), Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS), and Nurse Anesthetists (CRNA). With a focus on addressing healthcare disparities and expanding access, especially in rural and underserved areas, these graduate programs equip nurses with the leadership and specialized skills necessary to drive healthcare improvements across the state.
• Financial Advantage: Nursing salaries in Nebraska are below the national average, but the state's cost of living is generally lower, particularly in rural areas. This affordability allows nurses to make the most of their income. Additionally, Nebraska offers several financial incentives, such as loan repayment programs for healthcare professionals working in underserved areas. These programs, like the Nebraska Loan Repayment Program, help make advanced nursing degrees more accessible by alleviating financial burdens. This combination of affordable living and financial support creates opportunities for nurses to build a financially sustainable career in Nebraska.

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

Steps to Become a Nurse in Nebraska

Becoming a nurse in Nebraska 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 Nebraska

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 Nebraska State 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 Nebraska, be sure to check the NE 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 Nebraska.
5. Pursue Continuing Education: In Nebraska, RNs must complete 500 practice hours within the last five years and 20 continuing education (CE) hours every two years for license renewal or reinstatement. For nurses not currently working in clinical roles, additional options are available for meeting CE requirements. Please review Nebraska's Board of Nursing website for details on alternative pathways to license reinstatement.

APRN Requirements in Nebraska

1. Obtain and Maintain an RN License: Before pursuing APRN certification, you must be a licensed RN in Nebraska.
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.
   • American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB)
   • National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists (NACNS) 
   • American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)
   • American Association of Nurse Practitioners  American Nurses(AANP) 
   • National Board of Certification CRNA (NBCRNA)
5. Apply for APRN Licensure: Submit an application for APRN licensure to the Nebraska 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 Nebraska's specific guidelines to understand the requirements and scope of practice.
6. Maintain Certification and Licensure: APRNs in Nebraska must maintain both their national certification and state licensure. National certification must be upheld according to the specific requirements of the certifying body for the APRN specialty. For state licensure renewal, APRNs are required to complete the RN license renewal simultaneously with their APRN license renewal to ensure both credentials remain active. Additional requirements specific to each specialty are listed on the Nebraska Board of Nursing (BON) website for reference.

^{Always verify with the state board of nursing, as application requirements may change or include additional steps.}

Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Nebraska

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 Nebraska is lower than the national average at a mean annual salary of $79,780 or $45.59 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 Nebraska, APRNs earn the following mean annual salaries:

• Nurse Practitioners: $121,680.00
• Certified Nurse Midwives: Not Applicable
• Nurse Anesthetists: $212,860.00

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

How to Choose a Nursing Program in Nebraska

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  Nebraska

Choosing to attend an accredited nursing school in Nebraska 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 2025

If you're interested in a specific nursing degree or specialty, we've got you covered. Explore our comprehensive guides to nursing programs across Nebraska, 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 Traditional BSN Programs 2025
• 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 Nebraska

Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Nebraska

Q: Is it possible to enroll in a BSN program in Nebraska 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 Nebraska nursing programs?

Yes, out-of-state students can enroll in Nebraska nursing programs, though they may encounter higher tuition rates compared to in-state residents. Nebraska'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 Nebraska?

Many online nursing programs in Nebraska cater to non-entry-level students, such as the following online nursing program options:  

• RN to BSN No Clinical 
• RN to MSN 
• Nurse Practitioner 
• DNP

These online programs are designed for nurses with clinical experience and often allow students to complete their clinical requirements near their homes. By offering a blend of online coursework and flexible clinical placements, these programs make it easier for working nurses to advance their education without needing to attend full-time, on-campus classes.

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

Nursing program tuition in Nebraska varies greatly depending on the program and institution. Nursing program tuition in Nebraska varies greatly depending on the school and degree level. For a traditional BSN program, tuition costs can range from approximately $33,000 at the University of Nebraska Medical Center to around $85,000 at Nebraska Methodist College. RN to BSN programs are generally more affordable, with tuition costs around $9,000 at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and about $13,000 at Nebraska Methodist College. Graduate program tuition, such as BSN to NP, can range from $34,000 at the University of Nebraska to $64,000 at Nebraska Methodist College.

The wide variation in nursing school tuition makes financial planning essential when evaluating which nursing school is best for you. 

Edited Oct 19 by Erin Lee