Nursing Schools in Saint Louis, Missouri

Saint Louis, Missouri, stands as a beacon of excellence in nursing education, offering a diverse and enriching environment for aspiring nursing professionals. With many esteemed academic institutions and a thriving healthcare community, the city presents many opportunities to pursue a rewarding career in the noble healthcare field.

Explore the nursing schools in St. Louis, Missouri showcasing their unique features, comprehensive programs, and dedication to shaping competent and compassionate nurses. From renowned universities to specialized diploma programs, the city caters to nursing students' diverse educational needs and career aspirations.

Each nursing school takes pride in its commitment to evidence-based practice, patient-centered care, and interprofessional collaboration. Emphasizing the significance of providing high-quality healthcare, these institutions prepare students to meet the evolving demands of the nursing profession, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities essential for success.

Nursing Schools in Saint Louis, MO

1. Barnes-Jewish College Goldfarb School of Nursing

Located in St. Louis, Missouri, Barnes-Jewish College Goldfarb School of Nursing is renowned for its exceptional nursing education and clinical training. With a strong focus on evidence-based practice and patient-centered care, the college prepares students to become compassionate and skilled nurses. As an affiliate of the prestigious BJC HealthCare system, students benefit from diverse clinical opportunities in leading hospitals and healthcare facilities, shaping them into well-rounded nursing professionals.

• BSN, Upper Division Program: entry level nursing program for those who have completed their first two years of education at an accredited institution, students must be available for 30-40 hours per week, full-time five-term program, 66 credits of nursing coursework, 54 credits of prerequisite coursework
• Accelerated BSN: full-time 12-month program, 58 credits of coursework, 27 credit hours of prerequisite coursework, students must be available for 50-60 hours per week
• BSN, Evening and Weekend option: part-time 9-term program, 66 credit hours of nursing coursework that spans for 36 months, 54 credit hours of prerequisite coursework
• MSN Programs
  • Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner: spans for 27 months, 49 credit hours, 540 didactic contact hours, 840 clinical contact hours
  • Acute Care Nurse Practitioner: spans for 27 months, 63 credit hours, 630 didactic contact hours, 1,260 clinical contact hours
  • Nurse Educator: full-time online 26-month program, 36 months for part-time, 39 credit hours
  • Family Nurse Practitioner: spans for 8 terms, 52 credit hours, 600 didactic contact hours, 900 clinical contact hours
• DNP Programs
  • Post MSN DNP: spans for 24 months, fully online, 27 credit hours
  • Nurse Anesthesia: spans for 36 months, in-person and online mode of learning, full-time only, 92.5 credit hours
• Ph.D. Nursing Science: three years with optional 4th year, full-time, on-campus, 83 credit hours

2. Chamberlain University - St. Louis

Chamberlain University's St. Louis campus is a prominent nursing school that offers a variety of nursing programs designed to meet the demands of today's healthcare landscape. Known for its supportive learning environment and student-centric approach, Chamberlain St. Louis provides hands-on clinical experiences and innovative simulation labs, empowering students to excel in their nursing careers. The university's commitment to diversity and inclusivity fosters a sense of unity among students, creating a nurturing environment for their personal and professional growth.

• BSN: 36 months, multiple start dates, online or hybrid option with weekend and evening option, no pre-nursing course requirements, less than $51,000 tuition fee for the entire program
• RN to BSN: online 12-month program, full-time or part-time option
• MSN Programs: 24 months
  • Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner: spans for 36 months or 8 semesters, two specialty tracks: primary care or acute care
  • Family Nurse Practitioner: hybrid learning, 45 credit hours, 25 lab hours, 625 clinical hours
  • Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner: 47 credit hours, 25 lab hours, 625 clinical hours
• DNP: 24 months or six semesters, fully online, 32 to 40 credits, ideal for those aspiring to elevate their clinical practice to a leadership role or pursue a path as a clinical educator
• Graduate Certificates: less than 24 months 
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Nurse Practitioner: 33 credit hours, full-time with practicum
  • Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner: 30 credit hours, full-time with practicum
  • Family Nurse Practitioner: 30 credit hours, 25 hours lab work, 625 clinical hours
  • Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner: 32 credit hours, 25 lab hours, 625 clinical hours               
  • Nursing Informatics: 3 semesters full-time with practicum for 18 credit hours, 1.5 semesters full-time without practicum for 9 credit hours                 
  • Leadership Foundations (Post Baccalaureate): 3 semesters full-time without practicum for 18 credit hours

The following certificates span for 3 semesters full-time with practicum for 18 credit hours and 2 semesters full-time without practicum for 12 credit hours: Healthcare Policy, Nursing Education, Population Health, and Nursing Leadership.

3. Missouri Baptist University

At Missouri Baptist University, aspiring nurses find a nurturing and academically rigorous environment to pursue their nursing dreams. The university's BSN program emphasizes hands-on learning, preparing students for various nursing roles. With a strong foundation in Christian values and ethics, students are encouraged to foster a spirit of service and compassion in their nursing practice. The university's focus on leadership and critical thinking equips graduates to meet the challenges of modern healthcare and positively impact patient outcomes.

• BSN: Traditional program that spans 48 months, full-time and in-person program, 765 clinical hours
• Accelerated BSN: 12 months, full-time and in-person program, 765 clinical hours
• MSN Programs: 24 months, $745 cost per credit, fully online, full-time students can complete the program in six semesters
  • Executive Leadership
  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Nurse Educator

4. St. Louis Community College

St. Louis Community College's nursing program is a gateway for individuals seeking an affordable and accessible pathway to the nursing profession. The program offers comprehensive nursing education, empowering students with the necessary skills to enter the workforce or pursue further studies. With a commitment to diversity and community engagement, the college prepares culturally competent nurses who can serve the diverse healthcare needs of the St. Louis region.

• AAS: 24 months, $13,000 total cost for the two year program
• LPN to RN: 66-78 credit hours

5. St. Louis University

St. Louis University's School of Nursing is a prestigious institution known for its academic excellence and commitment to research-driven nursing practice. With various nursing programs, including BSN, MSN, and DNP, students can advance their nursing education and specialize in their areas of interest. The school's emphasis on Jesuit values and service to others fosters a strong sense of social responsibility among its graduates, preparing them to be compassionate and transformative leaders in healthcare.

• BSN:  48 months, $52,260 total tuition, 121-124 credits
• RN to BSN: full-time or part-time option, 120 credits, $510 cost per credit
• Accelerated BSN: three semester, 12-month program, 53 credits
• MSN Programs
  • Accelerated MSN: 21-month, five-semester, direct-entry program, 65 credits
  • Nurse Practitioner: full-time and part-time option that spans between two to four years
  • Clinical Nurse Leader: online, part-time, 24 months
• DNP: online program that spans four to five years
• Ph.D.: full-time and part-time, 51 credits of doctoral coursework, $1,310 cost per credit
• Graduate Certificates: $1,310 cost per credit, 15 credits for all courses except for Nurse Education which is 8-9 credits
  • Nurse Education
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Family Nurse Practitioner 
  • Family Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

6. University of Missouri - St. Louis

The University of Missouri - St. Louis (UMSL) offers comprehensive programs that equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in nursing. The strong emphasis on evidence-based practice, research, and community engagement prepares graduates to address complex healthcare challenges and positively impact patient care. With a diverse and inclusive campus environment, UMSL fosters a sense of belonging and support, nurturing students as they embark on their nursing journey.

• BSN: full-time on-campus program, 57 credits
• Accelerated BSN: 12 months, on-campus program, 53 credits
• RN to BSN: fully online, part-time program, 27 credits
• DNP Programs: The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree is for nurses who want a hands-on, practical doctorate instead of one focused on research. It's perfect for advanced clinicians working directly or indirectly in clinical practice. All courses are hybrid and requires 11 credit hours for completion, except for Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner requiring 17 credit hours.
  • Adult/Geriatric Nurse Practitioner
  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Women's Health Nurse Practitioner
• Graduate Certificate Programs: The duration of the program and the individualized study plan for each student may differ based on the student's prior academic background and their intended Advanced Practice Role. On average, a part-time student can finish the certificate within one to two years.
  • Adult/Geriatric Nurse Practitioner
  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
  • Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Women's Health Nurse Practitioner
• PhD: online mode of learning, 66 credits required for program completion, while BSN to PhD only require 48 credits, while MSN to PhD require only 45 credits.

7. Maryville University

Maryville University's nursing programs are distinguished for their cutting-edge curriculum and commitment to student success. The university's BSN program emphasizes leadership, innovation, and critical thinking, empowering students to be healthcare leaders. With a strong focus on technology and interprofessional collaboration, graduates are well-prepared to thrive in today's fast-paced and evolving healthcare environment.

• RN to BSN: fully online program, spans for 12-60 months, multiple start dates, 40 transfer credits allowed, 129 credits for completion, $15,750 - $67,725 tuition fee
• MSN Programs: 20-32 months, $39,386 - $41,900 tuition fee, online mode of learning, part-time or full-time option
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute/Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
  • Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• DNP Programs: spans for 40 months, online learning, $60,408 - $68,660 tuition fee
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute/Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
  • Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

8. Webster University

Webster University's nursing programs are designed to prepare students for leadership and advanced nursing roles. With a strong focus on cultural competency and global health, the university equips nurses to provide care to diverse populations nationally and internationally. The program's emphasis on research and evidence-based practice ensures that graduates are at the forefront of nursing innovation, driving positive change in healthcare systems worldwide.

• RN to BSN: part-time, 8-week term, program completion in 24 to 30 months, online learning, 30 credit hours
• MSN: hybrid learning, 30 months, 36 credit hours, two specialty tracks: Nurse Leader and Nurse Educator, $730 per credit hour
• Graduate Certificates
  • Healthcare Leadership: 18-credit hour program

Nursing Program Types in Saint Louis, MO

Many different types of nursing degrees, certificates, and diplomas are available. However, the most common programs obtained by nursing professionals include:

• ADN Programs: 24 months, leading to an RN career.
• BSN Programs: 48 months, leading to an RN career.
• RN to BSN Programs: 9 to 48 months, leading to an RN career.
• MSN Programs: 48 months, leading to APRN careers.
• DNP Programs: 48 to 60 months, leading to APRN and administration careers.

Studying Nursing in Saint Louis, MO

Studying nursing in St. Louis, Missouri, offers a unique and enriching experience, with various academic institutions and healthcare facilities that provide students with exceptional nursing education and clinical training. Here's a glimpse of what to expect:

• Diverse Nursing Programs: St. Louis boasts diverse nursing programs offered by esteemed institutions, ranging from community colleges to prestigious universities. Whether seeking a BSN, MSN, DNP, or specialized nursing diploma, the city provides numerous options for various educational and career goals.
• Strong Healthcare Community: St. Louis is home to world-renowned hospitals, healthcare systems, and research institutions. As a nursing student, you'll have access to top-notch clinical placements, allowing you to gain valuable hands-on experience in various healthcare settings. These clinical opportunities help you develop essential nursing skills and confidence in patient care.
• Supportive Faculty: Nursing faculty in St. Louis provide a supportive learning environment. They are experienced professionals committed to guiding students through their academic journey, imparting knowledge, and fostering critical thinking. Faculty members often have extensive clinical expertise, enabling them to share real-world experiences with their students.
• Emphasis on Evidence-Based Practice: St. Louis nursing programs emphasize evidence-based practice, encouraging students to utilize the latest research and clinical guidelines to make informed decisions in patient care. This focus equips graduates with the skills to provide high-quality, evidence-based nursing care to their patients.
• Collaboration and Interprofessional Education: St. Louis institutions often promote collaboration and interprofessional education, giving nursing students opportunities to work alongside students from other healthcare disciplines. This interdisciplinary approach fosters a better understanding of the roles and responsibilities of various healthcare professionals, preparing nurses to function effectively within healthcare teams.
• Vibrant Student Life: St. Louis offers a vibrant student life with many cultural, recreational, and social activities. From exploring the city's rich history and museums to enjoying its diverse cuisine and attending various events and festivals, nursing students have ample opportunities to unwind and engage in extracurricular activities.
• Opportunities for Professional Networking: St. Louis's robust healthcare community provides nursing students with networking opportunities. Attending nursing conferences, workshops, and professional events allows students to connect with seasoned professionals, potential mentors, and future colleagues, opening doors to potential career opportunities.

Sense of Community: St. Louis is known for its friendly and welcoming community. Nursing students often find a sense of camaraderie and support among their peers, fostering a collaborative and encouraging learning environment.

Studying nursing in St. Louis offers a well-rounded and comprehensive education, blending academic excellence, hands-on clinical experiences, and a nurturing atmosphere. Graduates of nursing programs in St. Louis emerge as confident and competent nursing professionals, ready to positively impact the lives of their patients and contribute meaningfully to the healthcare field.

FAQ

What are the admission requirements for nursing schools in St. Louis?

Admission requirements may vary depending on the specific nursing program and institution. Generally, applicants must meet academic prerequisites, submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statements, and may need to complete prerequisite courses.

Are scholarships and financial aid options available for nursing students in St. Louis?

Many nursing schools in St. Louis offer scholarships, grants, and financial aid options to support nursing students. Additionally, external scholarship opportunities and loan programs assist with educational expenses. For more information, visit https://www.nursingscholarships.org/missouri/.

How are clinical placements arranged for nursing students in St. Louis?

St. Louis nursing schools have strong partnerships with local healthcare facilities and hospitals, facilitating clinical placements for nursing students. Clinical coordinators and faculty work closely with students to arrange appropriate and diverse clinical experiences.