Utah's population continues to grow and Salt Lake City is emerging as a technology center. This has also expanded nursing care. Between 2018 and 2028, the number of registered nursing (RN) jobs in Utah is expected to grow by 28.2%,ifølge U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics(BLS).
This guide introduces the best nursing programs in Utah and explores how to get a nursing license in Utah. Read on to learn more about the best nursing schools and programs in Utah.
The Best Nursing Schools In Utah
Whether you want to earn a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) or an associate degree in nursing (ADN), public and private nursing programs in Utah offer attractive options, often with very low in-state tuition. This guide containsaccredited schools only, as unaccredited schools are not a good investment of your time and money.
Our method: We use onedata-driven methodto rank the best nursing schools in Utah to make it easier for you to find a program that's right for you. Our methodology is based on metrics we believe are most important to students, including: academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.
These locations include:
#1 Nursing Schools and Programs in Utah
Brigham Young University-Provo
Provo, UT - 4 years
- University area
With uscandid.scientific. in nursingprogram prepares RNs to become general practitioners. Courses emphasize evidence-based practice and include extensive clinical experience.
Contestants complete 60-63 points. The MSN results in a dissertation, clinical project or scientific article about a clinical problem. BYU, one of the best nursing schools in Utah, offers assistantships and scholarships.
- Program(s):Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nursing
- University area:Provo
- Type:Private
- Accreditation(s):Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Education:$453 each credit ($906 per Latter-day Saint credit)
- Entry requirements:Bachelor's degree from an accredited nursing program, minimum 3.0 GPA, GRE score, and current Utah RN license
- On-campus requirements:In
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate:96.8% first pass rate
- Median income two years after graduation:$83,177 for college graduates, according to the College Scorecard
Average tuition
I states
$ 5.790
Out of state
$ 5.790
Retention rate
90 %
Access rate
67 %
Students have signed up
34.318
settings type
Private
Online registration percentage
12 %
accreditation
In
#2 Nursing Schools and Programs in Utah
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, UT - 4 years
- Online + campus
OfUniversity of Utahoffers one of the most comprehensive undergraduate nursing programs in Utah. The program's four tracks include a Nursing Early Assurance Program (NEAP) and an online RN-to-BSN option.
NEAP students develop an evidence-based practice through clinical experiences across the region. Students have access to an advanced simulation center. The school is partnered with a medical academic center that covers a region of six states.
- Program(s): Early Assurance Nursing Program, RN-to-BSN, Pre-licentiestatus, Salt Lake Community College RN-to-BS Express Track
- University Area:Salt Lake City
- Type:Public
- Accreditation(s):Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Education:$920 p.p. credit for NEAP (in state), $3,433 pr. credit for NEAP (out-of-state); $260 p.p. credit for RN-til-BSN
- Entry requirements: high school or freshman college status and minimum cumulative 3.3-3.5 GPA for NEAP; associate degree from an accredited nursing program, minimum 3.0 GPA and RN license or RN-to-BSN eligibility
- On-campus requirements:In
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate:90.6% first pass rate
- Median income two years after graduation:$57,995 for bachelor's degree graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average tuition
I states
$ 7.412
Out of state
$ 26.017
Retention rate
89 %
Access rate
62 %
Students have signed up
32.852
settings type
Public
Online registration percentage
34 %
accreditation
In
#3 Nursing Schools and Programs in Utah
Utah State University
Logan, UT - 4 years
- Online + campus
USU supplies one yearpractical nursing certificateprogram. USU, one of the top nursing schools in Utah, prepares students for the NCLEX-PN exam. The certificate program covers basic care and medication administration.
After passing the NCLEX-PN exam, graduates can work as entry-level licensed practical nurses. Graduates may also take USU's Associate of Applied Science in Nursing.
- Program(s):Practical Nursing Certificate, Associate of Applied Science in Nursing, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, RN-to-BSN
- University area: Blending, Moab or Price, Utah
- Type:Public
- Accreditation(s).): Accreditation Board for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Entry requirements:High school diploma or GED and required coursework with a minimum of B grades
- Minimum time commitment:12 months
- On-campus requirements:In
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate:Passed 100% first time
- Median income two years after graduation:$50,231 for associate degrees, according to the College Scorecard
Average tuition
I states
$ 6.549
Out of state
$ 21.087
Retention rate
74 %
Access rate
91 %
Students have signed up
27.810
settings type
Public
Online registration percentage
50 %
accreditation
In
#4 Nursing Schools and Programs in Utah
Weber State University
Odin, UT - 4 years
- Online + campus
WSU, one of the top nursing schools in Utah, offers an associate degree in nursing for aspiring RNs. Students typically complete the 33 required credits in 24 months.
After their first year of college, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN exam. After passing the exam, individuals can practice as a licensed practice nurse. Associate program graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and become registered nurses.
- Program(s):Associate Degree in Nursing, Bachelor of Nursing, Master of Nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice
- University Area:Ogden
- Type:Public
- Accreditation(s):Accreditation Board for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Education:$5,329 per year (in state), $15,746 per year (out of state)
- Entry requirements:High school diploma or GED for ADN
- Minimum time commitment:24 months for ADN
- On-campus requirements:In
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate:88.4% first pass rate
- Median income two years after graduation:$51,482 for college graduates, according to the College Scorecard
Average tuition
I states
$ 4.990
Out of state
$ 14.973
Retention rate
66 %
Access rate
Not provided
Students have signed up
29.644
settings type
Public
Online registration percentage
35 %
accreditation
In
#5 Nursing Schools and Programs in Utah
Utah Valley University
Orem, UT - 4 years
- Online + campus
UVU, one of the most comprehensive and affordable nursing schools in Utah, offers aBSN completion program. Students bring over a university head nurse from UVU or another institution.
Enrollees gain skills in nursing health assessment, multi-population nursing, and local nursing. Students complete nursing practice simulations.
- Program(s):Associate of Science in Nursing, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, cand.scient. in nursing
- University Area:Orem
- Type:Public
- Accreditation(s): Accreditation Board for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Education:$315 p.p. credit for BSN (in-state), $888 p.p. credit for BSN (out-of-state)
- Entry requirements:ASN, required courses and RN license for BSN
- On-campus requirements:In
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate:95.9% first pass rate
- Median income two years after graduation:$54,894 for bachelor's degree graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average tuition
I states
$ 5.122
Out of state
$ 15.872
Retention rate
65 %
Access rate
Not provided
Students have signed up
41.728
settings type
Public
Online registration percentage
32 %
accreditation
In
#6 Nursing Schools and Programs in Utah
Salt Lake Community College
Salt Lake City, UT - 2 years
- University area
One of the most affordable nursing programs in Utah, SLCCsemployee of applied science in nursingprogram prepares enrollees for the NCLEX-RN exam.
Participants gain skills in health assessment and medical surgical nursing. The curriculum offers lectures and experiences in SLCC's healing arts lab. Candidates who pass the NCLEX exam can practice as a registered nurse.
- Program(s):associate of Applied Science in Nurse Advanced Placement Program for graduate practical/vocational nurses
- University Area:Salt Lake City
- Type:Public
- Accreditation(s):Accreditation Board for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Education:$267 per credit (in state), $656 per credit (out of state)
- Entry requirements:High school diploma or GED, certified nursing assistant license or medical assistant experience, required courses and TEAS scores
- Minimum time commitment:24 months
- On-campus requirements:In
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate:82.2% first pass rate
- Median income two years after graduation:$52,848 for associate degrees, according to the College Scorecard
Average tuition
I states
$ 3.437
Out of state
$ 11.968
Retention rate
59 %
Access rate
Not provided
Students have signed up
29.517
settings type
Public
Online registration percentage
31 %
accreditation
In
#7 Nursing Schools and Programs in Utah
Dixie State University
Sint-Joris, UT - 4 years
- Online + campus
Located in St. George, Dixie offers one of the most affordable nursing programs in Utah. Thatassociate level nursing educationoffers two tracks. Students can take an LPN-to-RN program or a paramedic-to-RN program.
Students can complete the 64-68 credits in four semesters. Each track prepares enrollees for the NCLEX-RN exam.
- Program(s):AAS in Nursing - LPN-to-RN en Paramedicus-to-RN, RN-to-BSN, Nursing Pre-licensure BS
- University Area:Sint George
- Type:Public
- Accreditation(s):Accreditation Board for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Education:$105 per credit (in state), $337 per credit (out of state)
- Entry requirements: LPN license or paramedic certification, minimum 3.0 GPA and required coursework
- Minimum time commitment:brand semester
- On-campus requirements:In
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate:89.7% first pass rate
Average tuition
I states
$ 4.680
Out of state
$ 14.976
Retention rate
57 %
Access rate
Not provided
Students have signed up
11.193
settings type
Public
Online registration percentage
29 %
accreditation
In
Recommended Online MSN Programs
How To Choose A Nursing Program In Utah
Finding the right nursing school in Utah involves considerations such as tuition and related costs, financial aid, the school's NCLEX-RN (nursing licensure) graduation rate, the school's format and logistics, and the reputation of the program. If you plan to attend nursing school in Utah online, ask about a clinical internship in your community.
Why Become a Nurse Practitioner in Utah
In addition to the growing demand for nurses, in-state tuition for a BSN remains low, making nursing school in Utah more affordable.
Utah is oneNursing Licensure Compact (NLC)state, which means that obtaining a Utah RN license will allow you to work in the 39 other NLC states without applying for a separate license.
Utah Nurse Practitioner Salary and Job Outlook
The median salary for RNs in Utah is $67,180, below the national median of $75,330.according to the BLS. Howevermedian salary for NPsis $111,200, not significantly lower than the national wage of $111,680.
While job growth for nurses is high, Utah is expected to have one as wellsurplus of 4,100 nurses from 2014-2030. Since Utah is an NLC state, going to Utah nursing school and getting a Utah license is still a good investment.
Salt Lake City offers the highest median salary for RNs in the state, with only a slight difference from other Utah cities.
In addition to competitive wages, Utah offers great opportunities for outdoor recreation, including motorcycling, hiking, camping, and skiing. Utah is home to some of the country's most beautiful national parks and scenic attractions, such as Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Monument Valley, and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.
One benefit of attending a nursing school in Utah is access to recreation during holiday periods.
| Highest paying metropolitan areas | Median salary for RNs |
|---|---|
| Salt Lake City | $ 68.680 |
| Sint George | $ 67.040 |
| Ogden-Clearfield | $ 65.650 |
| Provo-Orem | $ 64.960 |
| Logan | $ 64.790 |
Bron:BLS
Utah Nurse Salaries
Steps to Becoming a Nurse in Utah
Utah,like other states, requires a nursing degree from a state-recognized school, passing the NCLEX, and a successful background check.
RN-iced
To become oneRN in Utah, you have to earn oneADNofBSNand pass the NCLEX exam. An ADN lasts two years, a BSN four years. You must apply for a permitthe state nursing boardand have your school send you an official confirmation of your education and transcripts. You must also submit your fingerprints for a background check. The National Government website provides a full list ofrequirements and a description of the process, which includes fees ($200 for the NCLEX-RN exam; $90 for license processing).
APRN Requirements
To become oneadvanced graduate nurse(APRN), you must graduate from aMaster of Science in Nursing(MSN) or ageneral practitioner in nursing practice(DNP) program and pass the board certification exam.
Prospective RNs must pass a criminal background check and submit verification of education and certification. Nurse anesthetists must apply for a controlled substance license. This is evident from the website of the Norwegian Board of Nursingcomplete requirements and process.
Top Utah RN BSN Programs + Online Options
Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing In Utah
How long does it take to become a nurse in Utah?
It takes two years to complete an ADN program or four years for a BSN program, whether you attend a nursing school in Utah or another state. More and more employers prefer a BSN, especially academic medical centers and senior positions. If you have a degree in another field, you may be eligible for an accelerated BSN program.
Is there a demand for nurses in Utah?
OfBLS projectsdemand for RNs will grow by 9% between 2020 and 2030. As one of the nation's fastest growing states, demand for RNs in Utah may continue to grow as more healthcare professionals retire or leave the field due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
What Are The Highest Paying Cities For Nurses In Utah?
Salt Lake City is the highest paying city for nurses in Utah, with an average salary of $68,680. St. George is second highest with $67,040 and Ogden-Clearfield with $65,650. Provo-Orem offers an average RN salary of $64,960, with Logan's median salary at $64,790.
How Much Does a Nursing School Cost in Utah?
Nursing programs in Utah cost between $25,000 and $120,000 for a four-year BSN program. An ADN program can cost between $5,000 and $30,000 for a two-year program. Individual costs vary based on financial aid, books and supplies, and the cost of commuting or boarding.
Find nursing programs in other states
stat
FAQs
Nursing Schools And Programs In Utah | NurseJournal.org? ›
Utah State University - Logan, UT
The Associate of Applied Science in Nursing Program at Utah State University is one of the easiest ADN programs to get into.
Utah State University - Logan, UT
The Associate of Applied Science in Nursing Program at Utah State University is one of the easiest ADN programs to get into.
USU has the high acceptance rate of 91%, which means it is fairly easy to gain admittance as long as you submit a complete application with requested materials.
Why is getting into the nursing program so hard? ›Professors and program directors at Cal State and the California Community Colleges say there are two major forces limiting the capacity of nursing programs: poor pay for instructors and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Is a 3.5 good enough for nursing school? ›GPA requirements depend on the type of nursing program you want to apply for, but most programs require at least a 3.0 GPA or higher. However, due to the competitive nature of nursing programs, most schools prefer a 3.7 to 4.0 GPA.
What is the hardest class for a nursing major? ›- Pathophysiology. In this course, students learn how different anatomical systems work and how diseases or injuries affect these systems. ...
- Pharmacology. ...
- Medical Surgical 1 (also known as Adult Health 1) ...
- Evidence-Based Practice.
While most nursing schools set their minimum GPA requirements at 3.0, there are accelerated nursing programs out there that accept students with 2.7 and 2.8 GPAs. Keep in mind that this doesn't mean you'd receive a lesser nursing education with these programs.
What is the average salary for a RN BSN in Utah? ›$65,411 is the 25th percentile. Salaries below this are outliers. $110,974 is the 75th percentile.
Does Utah pay nurses well? ›How much do similar professions get paid in Utah? At a $72,790 average annual salary, RNs in Utah tend to earn less than nurse midwives ($143,890).
What is the average RN in Utah? ›The average RN hourly salary is $34.99.
What is the hardest semester of a nursing program? ›
Without question, the most difficult semester for me was the last semester of my junior year in nursing school. I attended a 4-year BSN program, and that particular semester included three classes that were very content-heavy, as well as the corresponding clinical hours for those classes.
How to pass nursing school easily? ›- Time Management. To be successful in nursing school, you must manage your time appropriately. ...
- Get Organized. ...
- Use Mnemonics. ...
- Study Everyday. ...
- Complete Practice Questions. ...
- Participate in a Study Group. ...
- Focus on course objectives when studying. ...
- Know your learning style.
To start nursing school, you don't need any prior nursing experience or healthcare education. All you need is a high school diploma or GED. Once you are accepted, your journey to RN begins! You can become an RN in 2 to 4 years by studying for an associate's degree (ASN) or bachelor's degree (BSN).
Can I be a nurse with a 2.5 GPA? ›Yes, it is possible to get into a nursing program with a 2.5 GPA. Many programs accept students with a lower GPA. It may take some extra work from you, though, especially if you are applying to a school that typically requires a higher GPA.
What are the easiest nursing prerequisites? ›- Social Sciences (Intro Psychology, Sociology, etc.)
- Humanities.
- Intro to Speech (or Communication)
- English Composition.
- History.
- Using Information Technology.
The most recurrent themes regarding the reasons behind BSN drop-out were: understanding that they were not suited to be nurses, perception of missing/lack of psychological, physical and practical resources needed to successfully cope with both nursing school and the nursing profession, inconsistencies between the image ...
Is it common to fail a class in nursing school? ›Many nursing schools require a minimum grade of roughly 80% to actually pass, as well. By the time you realize you aren't doing well enough to be successful in the course, the choices can be pretty limited. Failure happens all the time.
What is the easiest nursing major? ›For the easiest nursing degrees, your best options include shorter programs like licensed practical nurse and licensed vocational nurse programs, associate's degree programs, bridge programs for registered nurses seeking bachelor's degrees and hybrid nursing programs.
What is the easiest branch of nursing? ›Occupational Health
One of the easiest nursing jobs to get into is in the field of occupational health. Occupational health nurses work in large industries, HMOs, and factories to treat work-related injuries and onsite illnesses. This type of nurse is employed to keep the workers on the job.
Occupational Health
One of the easiest nursing jobs to get into is in the field of occupational health. Occupational health nurses work in large industries, HMOs, and factories to treat work-related injuries and onsite illnesses. This type of nurse is employed to keep the workers on the job.
What nursing school has the highest acceptance rate? ›
Which nursing school has the highest acceptance rate? There are several nursing programs in the US with 100% acceptance rates, including the Lubbock Christian University, Clarion University of Pennsylvania, and Oklahoma Wesleyan University.
What is the easiest nursing degree program? ›What makes an LPN or LVN preparation program the easiest type of nursing education you can pursue is its focus on training for basic nursing services only and its quick completion time. However, aspiring LPNs and LVNs still need to take coursework in studies such as biology, pharmacology and nursing.
Where is it easiest to become a nurse? ›- Maine: 1-2 weeks.
- Maryland: 2-3 days.
- Missouri: 2 weeks.
- Nevada: 1-2 weeks.
- North Carolina: 1-2 weeks.
- North Dakota: 1-2 weeks.
- Texas: 2 weeks.
- Vermont: 3-5 business days.
An associate's degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN) are the two most common fast track options. With each of these ways to receive nursing instruction, they require passing the NCLEX licensure examination.
What type of nurse is most in demand? ›What type of RN is most in demand? All RNs are in demand more than other occupations. The BLS projects 6% job growth for all RNs between 2021 and2031, compared to 5% job growth for all occupations. Some specialties that are in especially high demand are neonatal nursing, surgical nursing, and critical care nursing.
What type of nurse is the least stressful? ›Institutional Nurses
These nurses administer more basic care and typically don't have to work long hours and overnight shifts, so this field of nursing tends to be low-stress. Even with less excitement, these nurses find fulfillment in providing basic and family care to those in need.
Yes, it is possible to get into a nursing program with a 2.5 GPA. Many programs accept students with a lower GPA. It may take some extra work from you, though, especially if you are applying to a school that typically requires a higher GPA.
What is the hardest semester of nursing school? ›Without question, the most difficult semester for me was the last semester of my junior year in nursing school. I attended a 4-year BSN program, and that particular semester included three classes that were very content-heavy, as well as the corresponding clinical hours for those classes.
Do most people pass nursing school? ›Falling Pass Rates
Pass rates continued to decline in 2022, with an average pass rate of 80.9% opens in a new tab or windowfor all first-time U.S.-educated candidates, and a rate of 66.6% for all candidates, based on a dataset that excludes the fourth quarter of the year.
- Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist – $202,000.
- Nursing Administrator – $120,000.
- Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse – $120,000.
- General Nurse Practitioner – $118,000.
- Critical Care Nurse – $118,000.
- Certified Nurse Midwife – $114,000.
- Informatics Nurse – $102,000.
- Clinical Nurse Specialist – $95,000.
Is it too late to go to nursing school at 30? ›
When you think of nursing school, you likely envision young people 18–24, but there are actually many nurses who don't get their RNs until their 30s, 40s, or 50s! You're not too old just because you're older than the average student. In fact, there are a lot of benefits to becoming a nurse later in life.
What major is closest to nursing? ›- Medicine.
- Medical Science.
- Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science.
- Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
- Dentistry and Dental Support Services.
- Bioethics or Medical Ethics.
- Movement and Mind-Body Therapies.
- Social Work.