Best Nursing Schools in Nebraska

Nebraska's best nursing schoolsWorking as a nurse in Nebraska is a great idea if you want great pay, job security, and fast training. You could work in big cities like Omaha, Lincoln, and Bellevue, or you could choose to work in a rural community. Whatever the case may be, a good education is going to put you on a path for success in the future. Read on to learn more about what nursing schools in Nebraska can do for you.

How to Become a Nurse in Nebraska

For the most part, you need to go to college if you want to work as a nurse. Getting a degree will teach you how to work with patients, how to record important information, how to respond to emergencies, and more. You can choose to attend a number of nursing schools in Nebraska, or you could decide to get a degree online. Either way, you need to find a school accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) to ensure you get the best education possible.

This list shows some of the most common nursing programs in Nebraska, along with the approximate time it takes to complete each of them:

  • 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

After you complete your education, you will need to get a nursing license. Each job has its own unique needs, so you may also need some nursing certifications to go with your profession. When you have an idea of what you need, contact the Nebraska Board of Nursing to learn more about your exams.

Tuition for Nebraska Nursing Schools

Tuition rates in Nebraska vary by school type, location, degrees, and more. The College Board estimates what the average cost of tuition is in this state for private and public schools. You could use this data along with the degree lengths in the previous section to get an idea of how much money you might spend on your education. Average tuition rates in Nebraska are:

  • Public Two Year College: $2,979 per year
  • Public Four Year University: $7,883 per year
  • Private Four Year University: $21,875 per year

Job Prospects for Nebraska Nurses

Nursing is one of those professions that will always be in high demand. Hospitals and clinics in Nebraska need nurses to help take care of ill or injured patients. Your income as a nurse will have a lot to do with the sector of nursing you work in and the amount of education you go through. Here are some income estimates for nurses in Nebraska, courtesy of the BLS:

  • Nursing Assistant: $25,330 per year
  • Licensed Practical Nurse: $39,710 per year
  • Registered Nurse: $58,970 per year
  • Nurse Practitioner: $91,100 per year

Look through the many nursing schools Nebraska has to offer you, and you will be on your way to a great future.


Top Nursing Schools in Nebraska

Nebraska Wesleyan University

Located in Lincoln, NWU has so much to offer students; from a city with over 40,000 college students to low cost of living and access to internships and jobs Nebraska Wesleyan is a premier university to receive your education from. Class sizes are kept small and learning personalized with a faculty to student ration being 13 to 1. Whether you are a current nurse or a future nurse you need to be dynamic and able to respond to changing needs of patients as well as a quickly evolving industry. NWU offers a range of nursing programs to qualify you to meets those demands in a confident and competent manner. Graduates of NWU nursing program can think critically and solve problems that confront them in the profession of nursing qualifying them to advance their career.

  • Location: Lincoln
  • Student Enrollment:
  • Type of School: Private
  • Accredited College: Yes
  • Offers Online Programs:
  • Nebraska Wesleyan University Nursing Programs: RN-to-BSN, RN-to-MSN, MSN, Nurse Educator
  • Tuition: $28,500

Bellevue University

As a younger university Bellevue is growing and updating everything on campus to parallel the vision and integrate the Skills to Performance learning model across the curriculum. Graduates of Bellevue’s nursing program will be prepared for a broadened role in healthcare and provide students with the critical performance skills needed for decision-making, leadership, management, and health promotion for patients across the life span. Participants will leave prepared and confident to assume leadership and professionalism in the least care industry.

  • Location: Bellevue
  • Student Enrollment: 10,407
  • Type of School: Private
  • Accredited College: Yes
  • Offers Online Programs: Yes
  • Bellevue University Nursing Programs: RN to BSN, BSN
  • Tuition: $6,450

Western Nebraska Community College – Sidney Center

At WNCC students have the advantages of a small college, but with the experiences of a large university. There are many student organizations, clubs and athletics offered just like a large university but class sized are still small and learning is personalized. WNCC offers a variety of course and programs to fit any schedule; evening courses, weekend courses, and even online, there is a program that is right for you. Currently there are two paths to receive the education and training for students to enter the health care field of nursing. Graduates will be prepared to either transfer to a four year college and continue their education or enter the industry as a competent and caring nurse professional.

  • Location: Sidney, NE
  • Student Enrollment:
  • Type of School: Public
  • College Accredited: Yes
  • Offers Online Programs: Yes
  • Western Nebraska Community College – Sidney Center Nursing Programs: Associate, LPN

Southeast Community College – Beatrice Campus

SCC is a semi-rural community college with a large beautiful campus. SCC is partnered with numerous four year colleges and universities to offer easy transfer programs for students who begin their higher education here then wish to continue their education. If you are looking for a career that is in high demand and has proven recession proof then nursing is that career. At SCC students of the nursing program will learn concepts, principles, skills and attitudes needed to become practical nurses who can work with patients throughout a life-span.

  • Location: Beatrice, NE
  • Student Enrollment: 900
  • Type of School: Public
  • College Accredited: Yes
  • Offers Online Programs: No
  • Southeast Community College – Beatrice Campus Nursing Programs: LPN

Clarkson College

Clarkson College specializes in health care science, it originated as a school for nursing and has since held the tradition of a commitment to excellence. If you want to become the most qualified nurse with a strong academic backing and a realistic experience before graduation Clarkson College is for you. Our goal is to help every student not just graduate and certify to work int eh health care industry but to be the best in the health care industry. We offer multiple paths for the new nursing student and seasoned professional returning to increase their professional opportunities.

  • Location: Omaha, NE
  • Student Enrollment: 1,201
  • Type of School: Private
  • College Accredited: Yes
  • Offers Online Programs: Yes
  • Clarkson College Nursing Programs: BS/BSN, LPN, LPN-to-BSN, Accelerated BSN, RN-to-BSN, RN-to-MSN, MSN, Nurse Educator, Nurse Anesthetist, Nurse Practitioner
  • Tuition: $13,352

Western Nebraska Community College – Scottsbluff Campus

At WNCC students have the advantages of a small college, but with the experiences of a large university. There are many student organizations, clubs and athletics offered just like a large university but class sized are still small and learning is personalized. WNCC offers a variety of course and programs to fit any schedule; evening courses, weekend courses, and even online, there is a program that is right for you. Currently there are two paths to receive the education and training for students to enter the health care field of nursing. Graduates will be prepared to either transfer to a four year college and continue their education or enter the industry as a competent and caring nurse professional.

  • Location: Scottsbluff, NE
  • Student Enrollment: 2,395
  • Type of School: Public
  • College Accredited: Yes
  • Offers Online Programs: No
  • Western Nebraska Community College – Scottsbluff Campus Nursing Programs: Associate, LPN
  • Tuition: $2,496

BryanLGH College of Health Sciences

What sets Bryan College of Health Sciences apart form other schools? Students learn with the latest technology and most advanced teaching methods. The faculty is dedicated with a strong clinical emphasis with many hands on learning experiences that prepare students so they can excel in real life situations as health care professionals. The nursing program creates well-rounded students with education in the natural sciences, humanities and communication that build a foundation for studies in nursing. The nursing programs also offer the most comprehensive and individualized education to prepare students for success in a wide variety of nursing positions they might encounter.

  • Location: Lincoln, NE
  • Student Enrollment: 170
  • Type of School: Private
  • College Accredited: Yes
  • Offers Online Programs: No
  • BryanLGH College of Health Sciences Nursing Programs: BS/BSN, Nurse Anesthetist
  • Tuition: $13,592

Central Community College

CCC has one goal and that is to ensure students receive the education, training to certification they need to pursue a successful career. CCC offers a few different tracks for students seeking a degree or certification in nursing. The programs are accredited and prepare students to qualify for and pass the necessary exams to be employed as a nurse professional.

  • Location: Grand Island, NE
  • Student Enrollment: 7,521
  • Type of School: Public
  • College Accredited: Yes
  • Offers Online Programs: No
  • Central Community College Nursing Programs: Associate, LPN-to-RN, LPN
  • Tuition: $2,640

University of Nebraska Medical Center

University of Nebraska Medical Center is one of the finest medical schools in the country, the nursing program is innovative progressive. Students of the nursing program have multiple paths to achieve their goals. The nursing program has been re-calibrated to offer an accelerated, gold-standard, exceptionally comprehensive curriculum focused on student learning, progression and advancement to a nursing career. The education is no longer traditional but an active learning environment and engaging clinical and labs to best prepare nurses of the future.

  • Location: Omaha, NE
  • Student Enrollment: 14,620
  • Type of School: Public
  • College Accredited: Yes
  • Offers Online Programs: Yes
  • University of Nebraska Medical Center Nursing Programs: BS/BSN, Accelerated BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, Nurse Educator, Nurse Practitioner, PhD (Doctoral), Post-Doctoral Programs
  • Tuition: $7,920

College of Saint Mary

College of Saint Mary, a private Catholic College, is the only all women’s college in the region. Graduate nurses form Saint Mary’s are sought after by some of the largest hospitals in the region because of their ability to blend their knowledge of science and technology while providing compassionate care for patients across the life span. Nursing is a growing profession that is in high demand of qualified, educated, compassionate professionals.

  • Location: Omaha, NE
  • Student Enrollment: 1,018
  • Type of School: Private
  • College Accredited: Yes
  • Offers Online Programs: No
  • College of Saint Mary Nursing Programs: Associate, BS/BSN, LPN-to-RN, LPN, RN-to-BSN, MSN
  • Tuition: $27,984

Metropolitan Community College

MCC is currently one of the fastest growing institutions for higher learning in Nebraska. Students of the nursing courses will benefit from small classes and faculty and staff whose primary focus is the learning of each individual student. MCC is a student-centered school and faculty keep their focus on students through access to information and ongoing communication. There are currently two pathways to enable students to enter the health care field as a nurse professional.

  • Location: Omaha, NE
  • Student Enrollment: 11,500
  • Type of School: Public
  • College Accredited: Yes
  • Offers Online Programs: No
  • Metropolitan Community College Nursing Programs: Associate, LPN
  • Tuition: $
  • www.mccneb.edu

Mid-Plains Community College

Mid-Plains will make each year in college count whether you plan to finish with your associate or transfer to a four year college or university upon completing your degree at Mid-Plains. Students can get the most out of two years of education by completing generals and taking necessary courses for certification as a LPN. Whether students choose to complete their courses and enter the industry as a nurse professional or complete their Associate and transfer to continue their education Mid-Plains has a program to fit their goals.

  • Location: North Platte, NE
  • Student Enrollment: 2,600
  • Type of School: Public
  • College Accredited: Yes
  • Offers Online Programs: No
  • Mid-Plains Community College Nursing Programs: Associate, LPN
  • Tuition: $2,820
  • www.mpcc.edu

Midland University

Midland University offers so much for each students from dedicated faculty that know students by their first name because of the small class sizes to a graduate in 4 year guarantee. The student body is close and create a tight knit community at over 60% reside on campus and are within walking distance to everything they need. These distinctions and others set Midland University aside, along with their acclaimed academics and leading the way in excellent education. The nursing program offered creates a seamless transition from a RN of a working professional nurse to receive the BSN degree. The only way to advance in the nursing field is through education advancement, Midland University offers that advancement opportunity.

  • Location: Fremont, NE
  • Student Enrollment: 1,117
  • Type of School: Private
  • College Accredited: Yes
  • Offers Online Programs: No
  • Midland Lutheran College Nursing Programs: BS/BSN
  • Tuition: $28,150
  • www.midlandu.edu

Nebraska Methodist College

Nebraska Methodist College has been recognized as one of the top nursing colleges in the nation. Students seeking a college dedicated to nursing and the industry of health care look no further. That’s because healthcare education is the only focus of Nebraska Methodist College. Nebraska Methodist College will help students realize their educational goals through a supportive student environment, expert faculty committed to success and a cutting-edge education, on campus and online.

  • Location: Omaha, NE
  • Student Enrollment: 847
  • Type of School: Private
  • College Accredited: Yes
  • Offers Online Programs: Yes
  • Nebraska Methodist College Nursing Programs: BS/BSN, LPN-to-BSN, Accelerated BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, Nurse Educator
  • Tuition: $12,510
  • www.methodistcollege.edu

Northeast Community College

Northeast Community College is an Aspen Prize Top Ten Community College and has been recognized for the great education at an excellent value. Students seeking affordable high-quality education that will lead to a great career, start your success with Northeast Community College. Currently there is a shortage of nursing professionals nationwide, NCC offers two paths for students seeking to enter the health care industry as nursing professionals.

  • Location: Norfolk, NE
  • Student Enrollment: 4,500
  • Type of School: Public
  • College Accredited: Yes
  • Offers Online Programs: No
  • Northeast Community College Nursing Programs: Associate, LPN
  • Tuition: $3,030
  • northeast.edu

Southeast Community College

Southeast Community College is an affordable public two year college that offers two different paths for students seeking employment in the health care field. Students can choose the path that best fits their career goals, either an associate in nursing or LPN certification.

  • Location: Lincoln, NE
  • Student Enrollment: 11,000
  • Type of School: Public
  • College Accredited: Yes
  • Offers Online Programs: No
  • Southeast Community College Nursing Programs: Associate, LPN
  • Tuition: $2,486
  • www.southeast.edu

Union College

What makes Union College different, better? Students say it’s because of the amazing professors who challenge them, take the time to get to know them, and care about them as individuals. Faculty say it is because of the amazing students, students who demonstrate leadership, excel academically, and get serve others. The foundation for the nursing program is built on coursework in humanities, natural sciences, communication, and nursing theory.

  • Location: Lincoln, NE
  • Student Enrollment: 900
  • Type of School: Private
  • College Accredited: Yes
  • Offers Online Programs: No
  • Union College Nursing Programs: BS/BSN, RN-to-BSN
  • Tuition: $21,080
  • www.ucollege.edu

Creighton University

At Creighton University Jesuit principles are infused into each course. With newly added lab space students are able to gain experience using state of the art technology to better prepare them for real life situations they will face in the nursing industry. As a student of nursing at Creighton students have access to a community of professionals who will guide them on their path to contributing something meaningful to the world. Unlike many nursing programs, students can be admitted directly into the College of Nursing as a freshman.

  • Location: Omaha, NE
  • Student Enrollment: 8,019
  • Type of School: Private
  • College Accredited: Yes
  • Offers Online Programs: Yes
  • Creighton University Nursing Programs: BS/BSN, Accelerated BSN, RN-to-BSN, RN-to-MSN, MSN, Nurse Educator, Nurse Practitioner, DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice)
  • Tuition: $35,360
  • www.creighton.edu