Best Nursing Schools in New Mexico for 2025
đ„ Top Nursing Schools in New Mexico (2025)
1. University of New Mexico (UNM)
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 87%
- In-State Tuition: $10,860
- Out-of-State Tuition: $27,166
- Graduation Rate: 66%
- Programs Offered: BSN, RN-BSN, MSN, DNP, Ph.D.
- Accreditation: CCNE
UNM's College of Nursing is nationally recognized, with its MSN program tied for 61st and DNP program tied for 80th in U.S. News & World Report rankings. The online nursing program ranks 20th out of 179 in Best Online Master's in Nursing Programs. As a federally designated Hispanic Serving Institution, UNM emphasizes diversity and research focused on vulnerable populations.
2. New Mexico State University (NMSU)
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 82.5% (2023)
- In-State Tuition: $8,409
- Out-of-State Tuition: $26,735
- Graduation Rate: 52%
- Programs Offered: BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN (Online), BSN-DNP (Online), MSN-DNP (Online)
- Accreditation: CCNE
NMSU offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including online options for working professionals. The university has introduced a Nurse Anesthesiology program to meet local healthcare needs and emphasizes clinical training along the U.S.-Mexico border.
3. Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU)
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 100% (2023, 2024)
- In-State Tuition: $4,194
- Out-of-State Tuition: $6,174
- Graduation Rate: 72%
- Programs Offered: RN-BSN (Online), MSN (Online)
- Accreditation: ACEN
ENMU's BSN Completion program allows RNs to earn their BSN entirely online in 8-week courses. The university also offers a 2-year online MSN program preparing nurses as educators, qualifying them for the National League for Nursing Certified Nurse Educator Exam.
4. New Mexico Highlands University (NMHU)
- NCLEX Pass Rate: Data not available
- In-State Tuition: $2,391
- Out-of-State Tuition: $4,815
- Graduation Rate: 39%
- Programs Offered: RN-BSN (Online), MSN-FNP (Online)
- Accreditation: CCNE
NMHU offers an online RN-BSN program for RNs aiming to earn a bachelor's degree. The university also provides an online MSN-FNP program, designed for working professionals, which can be completed in two to three years. NPSchools
đ Choosing the Right Nursing Program
When selecting a nursing program in New Mexico, consider the following factors:
- Location: Evaluate whether you prefer urban, suburban, or rural settings, and consider the proximity to clinical placement sites.
- Tuition and Financial Aid: Compare in-state and out-of-state tuition rates, and explore scholarship and financial aid opportunities.
- NCLEX Pass Rates: High pass rates can indicate the program's effectiveness in preparing students for licensure.
- Program Offerings: Ensure the school offers the degree level and specialization you seek, whether it's entry-level or advanced practice.
- Graduation Rates: Higher graduation rates may reflect student satisfaction and program support.
đ Next Steps
Embarking on a nursing career in New Mexico involves:
- Researching Programs: Visit school websites to gather detailed information on curricula, faculty, and clinical opportunities.
- Preparing Applications: Note application deadlines, prerequisites, and required documentation.
- Financial Planning: Apply for financial aid, scholarships, and grants; consult financial aid offices for guidance.
- Licensure: Understand the requirements for obtaining and maintaining nursing licensure in New Mexico.
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