Want to become a nurse in Mississippi? Have no clue where to get started? Don’t fret. We’re here to help. With a good education and a passion for the medical field, you could become a nurse in Mississippi in just a few years. Hospitals and clinics in Jackson, Biloxi, Clarksdale, Hattiesburg, and more are looking for qualified employees to help them care for their patients. If this sounds like a career you want to know more about, see what nursing schools in Mississippi could do for you.
How to Become a Nurse in Mississippi
If you want to become a nurse in Mississippi, you need to go through some sort of formal training. Look for a school that is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC). These organizations are known for their quality nursing assessment. They will ensure that you are properly trained in whatever degree you choose to earn.
There are several levels of education for nurses, depending on the type of nurse you would like to be. Examples include:
- Diploma of Nursing (DN): 1 year
- Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN): 2 years
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): 4 years
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): 6 years
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): 8+ years
Once you complete your degree, you will need to pursue a license or certification in nursing. This will be based on the type of nurse you want to be. To learn more about your options, contact the Mississippi Board of Nursing.
Tuition for Mississippi Nursing Schools
What you pay for your education will change based on the type of degree you get and the type of school you go to. Mississippi nursing schools have fairly low tuition rates as a whole, especially if you decide to go to a community college. Listed below are some average tuition rates for colleges in Mississippi, courtesy of the College Board.
- Public Two Year College: $2,773 per year
- Public Four Year University: $7,409 per year
- Private Four Year University: $20,000 per year
Job Prospects for Mississippi Nurses
Nursing positions are in high demand throughout the country, no matter what type of nurse you decide to be. Your earning potential as a nurse will be based on the specific career you pursue. The longer your education takes, the more money you will likely earn in the future. Here is a look at the pay rates you might expect in various Mississippi nursing jobs. (BLS)
- Nursing Assistant: $21,290 per year
- Licensed Practical Nurse: $35,940 per year
- Registered Nurse: $56,980 per year
- Nurse Practitioner: $98,880 per year
Check out the many nursing schools Mississippi has in store for you, and you will soon have a great opportunity to start your career.
Best Nursing Schools in Mississippi
1. Delta State University
DSU has its beginnings as a teacher’s college, the University sustains excellence in teacher education while continuing to expand offerings in traditional as well as unique programs of study. It has since expanded to offer premier education in health care. DSU’s nursing program offers tracks for new and returning students from BSN to Nurse Practitioner programs. The Robert E. Smith School of Nursing prepares practitioners of nursing to meet the health care needs of the people of Mississippi and to provide a foundation in the study of nursing sufficient to support graduate study beyond the baccalaureate level.
- Location: Cleveland
- Student Enrollment: 4,030
- Type of School: Public
- College Accredited: Yes
- Offers Online Programs: Yes
- Delta State University Nursing Programs: RN-to-BSN, BS/BSN, MSN, Nurse Educator, Nurse Practitioner, Doctorate of Nursing
- Tuition: $6,418
2. Mississippi College
As the second oldest Baptists affiliated college in the United States MC has been around for nearly two centuries and has a rich history of excellence in academics rooted in the cause of Christ. Students at Mississippi College will get a cutting edge education that is fully accredited. Participants of the nursing program will have options of traditional or online format to complete coursework. This allows for flexibility with necessary clinical practice and opportunities to participate in state of the art labs. Graduates will have received the necessary education and more importantly training to prepare them for success as a confident critical thinking team member of a health care team.
- Location: Clinton, MS
- Student Enrollment: 5,270
- Type of School: Private
- College Accredited: Yes
- Offers Online Programs: Yes
- Mississippi College Nursing Programs: BS/BSN, RN-to-BSN
- Tuition: $15,458
3. Mississippi University for Women
The Mississippi University for Women is actually a co-educational institution for higher learning. It was the first public institution for higher learning in the United States for women and in honor of that has retained the original title. Graduates of our nursing programs are sought after employers prior to graduation due to their high achievement rate. Students and graduates have received numerous local, state and national awards and recognition including the National Spirit of Nursing Award, the National Pfizer Advanced Nurse Practitioner Award for exceptional contributions to health care, and the National Organization for Associate Degree Nursing Educator Award.
- Location: Columbus, MS
- Student Enrollment: 2,700
- Type of School: Public
- College Accredited: Yes
- Offers Online Programs: No
- Mississippi University for Women Nursing Programs: Associate, RN-to-BSN, BS/BSN, Nurse Practitioner
- Tuition: $2,982.50
4. Alcorn State University
Here at Alcorn we believe that wisdom is when education and character meet and help you become the person and can and should become. With a rich history rooted in freedom of education available for all. The goal of our nursing program is to promote excellence and leadership in nursing education, nursing practice, and research. By fostering a culture of excellence, innovation and intellectual rigor faculty, staff, and students embrace the core values of holism, integrity, professionalism, diversity, accountability, competence, and leadership to transform the health care industry.
- Location: Alcorn State
- Student Enrollment: 3,250
- Type of School: Public
- College Accredited: Yes
- Offers Online Programs: No
- Alcorn State University Nursing Programs: Associate, BS/BSN, LPN-to-RN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, Nurse Educator, Nurse Practitioner
- Tuition: $6,200
5. University of Southern Mississippi
Southern Miss is a very diverse University with students from over 71 countries, across the country, and form every corner of the state of Mississippi. What started out as a small teachers college has grown into a comprehensive doctoral and research-driven institution with a proud history and an eye on the future. Graduates in nursing will demonstrate curriculum mastery to provide and evaluate comprehensive, integrated care utilizing specialized knowledge and expertise to promote and/or maintain better client outcomes.
- Location: Hattiesburg
- Student Enrollment: 15,300
- Type of School: Public
- College Accredited: Yes
- Offers Online Programs: Yes
- University of Southern Mississippi Nursing Programs: RN-to-BSN, BS/BSN, RN-to-MSN, MSN, Nurse Practitioner, PhD (Doctoral), DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice)
- Tuition: $7,224
6. East Central Community College
As a premier two year college ECC promotes life long learning. If you are looking for a fast paced career and with stability and growth, nursing is a great career for you. At ECC you can begin with an Associate degree or LPN to get you started on a exciting career path. Graduates are prepared for licensure exams. Upon completion students can either enter the health care field at an entry level position or transfer to a four year college to continue their education for a BSN.
- Location: Decatur
- Student Enrollment: 3,049
- Type of School: Public
- College Accredited: Yes
- Offers Online Programs: No
- East Central Community College Nursing Programs: Associate, LPN-to-RN, LPN
- Tuition: $2,170
7. Hinds Community College
Hinds Community College is the largest community college in the state of Mississippi with over 200 programs for students to focus their studies in. It is also one of the most accessible, affordable colleges in in the state, a great place to get a jump start on your career in nursing. We are so confident that our programs will prepare students to be competent, confident, certified and possessing necessary skills to enter the health care team that we offer student satisfaction or 8 credit hours free.
- Location: Raymond
- Student Enrollment: 12,811
- Type of School: Public
- College Accredited: Yes
- Offers Online Programs: No
- Hinds Community College Nursing Programs: Associate, LPN
- Tuition: $2,500
8. Copiah-Lincoln Community College
Copiah-Lincoln Community College is a comprehensive two year college that is military friendly and affordable. If you enjoy helping people and are good with science and technology nursing is a stable fast growing career for you. We currently offer a few different tracks to enter the health care field, an Associate degree, LPN or RN. Whatever path you choose we will be there every step of the way to ensure you are ready academically, experienced and with necessary skills to be part of the diagnosing, treatment and healing process of patients.
- Location: Wesson
- Student Enrollment: 3,929
- Type of School: Public
- College Accredited: Yes
- Offers Online Programs: No
- Copiah-Lincoln Community College Nursing Programs: Associate, LPN-to-RN, LPN
- Tuition: $2,455
9. Southwest Mississippi Community College
Our vision at Southwest Mississippi Community College is to provide academic, career, and continuing education, meeting the diverse needs of the population at a reasonable cost. SMCC provides community services and promotes economic development through educational and workforce training. We offer different tracks for those seeking certification in the field of nursing. Graduates can either enter the health care industry at an entry level position or transfer to a four year college to continue their education and receive a BSN.
- Location: Summit
- Student Enrollment: 2,128
- Type of School: Public
- College Accredited: Yes
- Offers Online Programs: No
- Southwest Mississippi Community College Nursing Programs: Associate, LPN
- Tuition: $2,620
10. Coahoma Community College
Our campus spreads out over 90 acres of agrarian setting encompassing sprawling land and a picturesque lake students have a a great deal of wholesome recreational activities as well as serene places to study. CCC has an accredited nursing program that prepares students for licensure exams and entry level positions in the health care industry.
- Location: Clarksville
- Student Enrollment: 2,999
- Type of School: Public
- College Accredited: Yes
- Offers Online Programs: No
- Coahoma Community College Nursing Programs: Associate, LPN-to-RN, LPN
- Tuition: $2,240
11. Northwest Mississippi Community College
Participants in the nursing program will qualify for the certification and licensure exams to be employed at an entry level position as part of the health care team. Nursing is a stable growing profession and is estimated to grow another 20% by 2020. Graduates will learn nursing theory, practice in clinical settings, think critically, and learn leadership skills.
- Location: Senatobia
- Student Enrollment: 6,607
- Type of School: Public
- College Accredited: Yes
- Offers Online Programs: No
- Northwest Mississippi Community College Nursing Programs: Associate, LPN
- Tuition: $1,950
- www.northwestms.edu/
12. Pearl River Community College
Pearl River is committed to helping students juggle and prioritize their future by offering flexible education now with distance learning, weekend and night classes, and hybrid classes which include online and classroom instruction. The Practical Nursing program is a twelve-month program designed to prepare qualified individuals to function as a member of the health care team. Participants learn skills in administering safe, effective health care as a Licensed Practical Nurse. Licensed Practical Nurses have opportunities to work under the direction of a registered nurse, licensed physician or licensed dentist.
- Location: Poplarville
- Student Enrollment: 5,731
- Type of School: Public
- College Accredited: Yes
- Offers Online Programs: Yes
- Pearl River Community College Nursing Programs: Associate, LPN
- Tuition: $2,855
- www.prcc.edu/
13. Itawamba Community College – Fulton Campus
Itawamba Community College Is ready to provide the best start for the future. The Nursing program at Itawamba Community College is designed to provide qualified students with the educational preparation for a career as a registered nurse. The curriculum consists of nursing theory, clinical practice and skills experiences and general education to prepare participants to enter the health care industry ready to be part of the health care team. We also offer an easy transfer track for students seeking to continue their education at a university and receive a BSN.
- Location: Fulton
- Student Enrollment:
- Type of School: Public
- College Accredited: Yes
- Offers Online Programs: No
- Itawamba Community College – Fulton Campus Nursing Programs: Associate, LPN
- Tuition: $2,420
- www.iccms.edu/
14. Itawamba Community College – Tupelo Campus
Itawamba Community College Is ready to provide the best start for the future. The Nursing program at Itawamba Community College is designed to provide qualified students with the educational preparation for a career as a registered nurse. The curriculum consists of nursing theory, clinical practice and skills experiences and general education to prepare participants to enter the health care industry ready to be part of the health care team. We also offer an easy transfer track for students seeking to continue their education at a university and receive a BSN.
- Location: Tupelo, MS
- Student Enrollment: 3,800
- Type of School: Public
- College Accredited: Yes
- Offers Online Programs: No
- Itawamba Community College – Tupelo Campus Nursing Programs: LPN
- Tuition: $2,420
- www.iccms.edu/
15. Jones County Junior College
JCJC has been the college choice for students for over a century with partnerships with local businesses and the community. Students develop relationships and network to maximize their potential and improve their quality of life now and in the future. We promise to provide excellent faculty, academic programs that are of interest to students, and opportunities to network and serve within the community. Our nursing program follows our values of academic excellence and community involvement through clinical experiences.
- Location: Ellisville
- Student Enrollment: 4,
- Type of School: Public
- College Accredited: Yes
- Offers Online Programs: No
- Jones County Junior College Nursing Programs: Associate, LPN-to-RN, LPN
- Tuition: $2,722
- www.jcjc.edu/
16. Meridian Community College
Do you enjoy helping others? Do you have a mind for science? Are you a life long learner? Would you like a career in one of the most rewarding and in-demand occupations in today’s workforce? If this described you then Nursing is a profession you will excel in. Nursing is a profession that provides health care services to the ill, the disabled, and the healthy across the life span. Nursing promotes health in all individuals through research, health education, and patient consultation. You can begin your career at Meridian Community College with a degree in Nursing.
- Location: Meridian
- Student Enrollment: 3,979
- Type of School: Public
- College Accredited: Yes
- Offers Online Programs: No
- Meridian Community College Nursing Programs: Associate, LPN
- Tuition: $2,430
- www.mcc.cc.ms.us/
17. Holmes Community College
Holmes offers affordable higher learning for those seeking a brighter future with a solid foundation. if you are a prospective student Holmes offers flexible courses to help you on your way as part of the Mississippi Virtual Community College some courses are even offered online for your convenience. Those seeking a degree in nursing will be able to take course to qualify them for the necessary exams and certifications so they can be employed as a nurse within the field of health care.
- Location: Grenada
- Student Enrollment: 3,100
- Type of School: Public
- College Accredited: Yes
- Offers Online Programs: Yes
- Holmes Community College Nursing Programs: Associate, LPN
- Tuition: $2,288
- www.holmescc.edu/
18. Mississippi Delta Community College
Mississippi Delta is a competitive two year college that is fully accredited. If you are wanting to get into a career that offers stability, job growth, and is in high demand then nursing is for you. Mississippi Delta offers a two year program to help get you on the track to a satisfying profession with a great deal of potential. Currently three different tracks are offered depending on what your goals are and how quickly you want to enter the industry of health care.
- Location: Moorhead
- Student Enrollment: 3,609
- Type of School: Public
- College Accredited: Yes
- Offers Online Programs: No
- Mississippi Delta Community College Nursing Programs: Associate, LPN-to-RN, LPN
- Tuition: $2,490
- www.msdelta.edu/
19. Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College
At MGCCC you have choices, whether you are looking to train for a job or prepare for further education at larger four year college or university MGCCC is a perfect step for you. There are two tracks for those desiring to center the field of health care as well. If you plan to attend a four year college you can begin at MGCCC with an associate in nursing. If you want to being a career in two years then the LPN program is for you. Upon graduation and certification after passing necessary exams you can enter the nursing profession.
- Location: Gulfport
- Student Enrollment: 8,800
- Type of School: Public
- College Accredited: Yes
- Offers Online Programs: No
- Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College Programs: Associate, LPN
- Tuition: $2,732
- /www.mgccc.edu/
20. Northeast Mississippi Community College
Northeast Mississippi Community College is a public, comprehensive community college that has the purpose to meet the educational and career needs of individual students and the community. To accomplish this NEMCC offers associate degrees, certifications programs, developmental studies, and continuing education while serving the community in which we live. One of the programs offered one two levels is nursing. Participants will have two tracks to choose from to serve the community and meet the growing demand for nursing professionals, either an associate degree or LPN.
- Location: Booneville
- Student Enrollment: 3,627
- Type of School: Public
- College Accredited: Yes
- Offers Online Programs: No
- Northeast Mississippi Community College Nursing Programs: Associate, LPN
- Tuition: $2,301
- www.nemcc.edu/
21. William Carey University
William Carey University is a private Christian liberal arts university that is a best value institution for higher learning by US News and World Report. At William Carey the vision is to blend faith with learning and living. Core values are emphasized throughout the academic experience and promote faith, service, leadership, and academic excellence. The values of the nursing program are aligned with the core values. The nursing program itself has a three fold mission for its participants: a) to acquire the necessary knowledge and skill set for effective nursing b) develop values and character to attribute to the likelihood of maintaining a life long career as a caring nurse c) to acquire necessary academic foundation to pass all licensure and certification exams.
- Location: Hattiesburg
- Student Enrollment: 2,300
- Type of School: Public
- College Accredited: Yes
- Offers Online Programs: No
- William Carey College Nursing Programs: RN to BSN, BSN, MSN, Doctorate of Nursing, Doctorate of Philosophy of Nursing
- Tuition: $11,400
- www.wmcarey.edu/
22. University of Mississippi Medical Center
As the state’s only Medical University UMMC is the leader in providing health care professionals for the state. The educational vision of UMMC is to train committed health care professionals who work together to improve health outcomes among diverse populations across the life span and eliminate health disparities. The mission of UMMC is to improve the health and well-being of patients and the community through excellent training for healthcare professionals, engagement in innovative research, and the delivery of state-of-the-art health care. The nursing program is committed to vision and mission of UMMC offering engaging academics, state of the art labs, and outreach programs.
- Location: Jackson
- Student Enrollment: 2,385
- Type of School: Public
- College Accredited: Yes
- Offers Online Programs: No
- University of Mississippi Medical Center Nursing Programs: RN-to-BSN, BS/BSN, RN-to-MSN, Nurse Practitioner, PhD (Doctoral)
- Tuition: $7,134.00
- /www.umc.edu/
RESOURCES
- Annual costs and tuition rates: Data provided by the CNN Money College Cost Calculator.
- Student populations and graduation rates: Data provided by the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System.
- Accreditations: Data provided by each school’s website, linked in the heading for the school on this list.
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Mississippi Nursing Board
- Institutions’ Websites