Best Nursing Schools in Nebraska for 2025
Top Nursing Schools in Nebraska for 2025
Nebraska is an excellent place to launch or advance a nursing career, offering low cost of living, strong community values, and robust job growth in healthcare. Whether you're just starting out or returning to school for a graduate degree, choosing the right nursing program is key.
We've compiled a list of the leading nursing programs in Nebraska, based on NCLEX pass rates, program flexibility, cost, and reputation—ensuring you're equipped for success.
🥇 University of Nebraska Medical Center – Score: 74.3
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 89.9%
- Tuition (In-state): $7,770
- Tuition (Out-of-state): $24,450
Located in Omaha, UNMC is nationally recognized for research, rural outreach, and global partnerships. It offers traditional BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD options. Its regional campuses extend accessibility statewide.
🥈 Bryan College of Health Sciences – Score: 72.9
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 96.4%
- Tuition: $22,500
Bryan College is celebrated for small class sizes, exceptional faculty support, and high employment rates. Its nursing programs span BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, and a Nurse Anesthesia doctorate.
🥉 Nebraska Methodist College – Score: 72.9
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 95.6%
- Tuition: $17,940
Known for its hybrid and online-friendly curriculum, NMC offers BSN, MSN, DNP, and certificate programs. It’s ideal for students balancing education with work or family obligations.
🎓 Clarkson College – Score: 67.1
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 94.7%
- Tuition: $18,960
As Nebraska’s oldest nursing college, Clarkson blends tradition with innovation. Programs include BSN, MSN, DNP, and post-master’s certificates, available online or on campus.
🏅 Creighton University – Score: 47.1
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 91.3%
- Tuition: $44,524
Creighton is consistently ranked among the top national universities for undergraduate teaching. Its programs include BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD tracks with clinical sites across Nebraska and Arizona.
🩺 College of Saint Mary – Score: 34.3
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 86.0%
- Tuition: $21,800
This women’s college emphasizes community service and leadership in healthcare. Options include traditional BSN, LPN-BSN, and a three-year accelerated BSN program.
🏫 Nebraska Wesleyan University – Score: 31.4
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 73.9%
- Tuition: $38,898
NWU focuses on mentorship, service learning, and liberal arts education. Its nursing programs include a BSN and RN-to-BSN track, emphasizing leadership and public health.
✅ Choosing the Right Program
Key factors to evaluate:
- NCLEX Pass Rate: Indicator of exam preparation quality.
- Tuition & Aid: Weigh affordability and financial aid options.
- Accreditation: Look for CCNE or ACEN approval.
- Program Variety: Choose a path that matches your goals—whether it’s direct-entry, bridge, or advanced practice.
🚀 Next Steps
- Visit each school’s nursing page to confirm admission deadlines.
- Schedule info sessions or campus visits if possible.
- Prepare a strong application and explore state financial aid.
For more job matches and career resources, explore Goodwork nursing opportunities.
