Top Nursing Schools & Programs in Nebraska

Top Nursing Schools in Nebraska
Hannah Pierce, BSN

Hannah Pierce, BSN

June 26, 2025

Nebraska’s nursing education landscape offers a variety of pathways to suit every stage of your healthcare career. Whether you’re launching your journey as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), advancing from Registered Nurse (RN) to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), pursuing licensure as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), or specializing as a Nurse Practitioner (NP), the state’s community colleges, universities, and health systems provide well‑rounded curricula that blend classroom study with hands‑on clinical experiences. From rotations in Omaha’s leading hospitals to rural practicums on the plains, and with flexible online options for busy learners, Nebraska’s nursing programs prepare graduates with the expertise, credentials, and competitive salary potential to thrive across the Cornhusker State’s diverse medical settings.

On this page

2026 Top Nursing Programs in Nebraska

At TopNursing.org, we pride ourselves on delivering comprehensive rankings of the best nursing programs across Nebraska. Our expert team carefully evaluates each nursing school based on critical factors like academic quality, student outcomes, faculty expertise, and clinical training opportunities. Nebraska offers some exceptional nursing education options, ranging from community colleges to prestigious university programs that prepare students for dynamic healthcare careers. These top-ranked institutions provide robust curriculum, state-of-the-art simulation labs, and strong connections with regional healthcare networks. Whether you're seeking an associate's degree, bachelor's, or advanced nursing program, our rankings help prospective students make informed decisions about their educational journey. Learn more about our comprehensive ranking methodology.
#1

Clarkson College

Omaha, NE - Private 4-year - clarksoncollege.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Clarkson College's BSN program delivers a comprehensive nursing education through an innovative hybrid learning model that strategically integrates classroom instruction with online coursework. Students benefit from intimate learning environments with small class sizes, enabling personalized faculty mentorship and robust academic engagement. The curriculum meticulously balances scientific principles with humanities, cultivating critical thinking skills and compassionate patient care approaches. Aspiring nurses must maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA for admission, with the program specifically designed to prepare graduates for successful NCLEX-RN examination. Unique program strengths include early clinical exposure, leadership development opportunities, and a holistic approach to healthcare education that empowers students to excel in diverse medical settings.

  • Hybrid program format.
  • Small class sizes.
  • Early hands-on learning.
  • 2.5 GPA requirement.
  • Eligible for NCLEX-RN.
  • Focus on critical thinking.
  • Leadership development.
  • Compassionate care emphasis.
  • Experienced faculty.
  • Combines science and humanities.
#2

Bryan College of Health Sciences

Lincoln, NE - Private 4-year - bryanhealthcollege.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Bryan College of Health Sciences delivers an exceptional Bachelor of Science in Nursing program strategically located in Lincoln, Nebraska. Prospective nursing students benefit from an extraordinary learning environment featuring a remarkable 1:6 clinical faculty-to-student ratio and comprehensive curriculum encompassing over 1,200 clinical training hours. With a phenomenal 100% NCLEX pass rate as of May 2023, the program guarantees employment upon acceptance and provides no prerequisite barriers for entry. Students engage in hands-on learning experiences within the state-of-the-art Simulation Center and receive training at Bryan Medical Center, positioning graduates for immediate professional success with potential starting salaries reaching $60,000.

  • Low 1:6 faculty-to-student ratio
  • Over 1,200 clinical hours
  • 100% NCLEX pass rate
  • Job guarantee upon acceptance
  • No prerequisites required
  • Comprehensive curriculum
  • Hands-on learning experiences
  • State-of-the-art Simulation Center
  • Training at Bryan Medical Center
  • Strong tradition of high NCLEX pass rates

Bachelor's - Accelerated Nursing Degree

Campus Based - Visit Website

Bryan College's Accelerated Nursing Degree program offers a dynamic 12-month pathway to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing for career changers and bachelor's degree holders. Designed for ambitious professionals, this intensive program requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and prerequisite coursework in anatomy, microbiology, and related sciences. Students benefit from an exceptional 1:6 clinical faculty ratio, generating over 1,200 clinical training hours and maintaining a perfect 100% NCLEX examination pass rate. The program facilitates seamless credit transfers, job guarantees at Bryan Health facilities, and potential starting salaries up to $60,000, making it an attractive option for rapid nursing career advancement.

  • 12-month BSN program
  • 3.0 GPA requirement
  • 1:6 clinical ratio
  • 1,200+ clinical hours
  • 100% NCLEX pass rate
  • Job guarantee
  • Starting salary up to $60,000
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Transfer credits accepted
  • Campus-based program
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#3

Nebraska Wesleyan University

Lincoln, NE - Private 4-year - nebrwesleyan.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Nebraska Wesleyan University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program delivers a rigorous educational pathway for aspiring nurses, emphasizing comprehensive clinical preparation and academic excellence. Students engage in an intensive curriculum spanning four years, accumulating over 800 clinical training hours across diverse healthcare environments. The program's strategic design integrates liberal arts foundations with advanced nursing skills, preparing graduates for dynamic healthcare challenges. Admission requires a competitive 3.0 GPA, with direct entry options available for exceptional candidates. ACT or SAT entrance exams are standard, complemented by robust NCLEX-RN exam preparation. Small class sizes ensure personalized learning, with experienced faculty guiding students through sophisticated simulation labs and hands-on clinical experiences.

  • 4-year BSN degree
  • Over 800 clinical hours
  • Small class sizes
  • NCLEX-RN prep course
  • Competitive admission
  • 3.0 GPA requirement
  • Direct entry options
  • Experienced faculty
  • Comprehensive curriculum
  • Hands-on skills lab
#4

College of Saint Mary

Omaha, NE - Private 4-year - csm.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

College of Saint Mary's BSN program in Omaha offers a comprehensive nursing education that transforms aspiring healthcare professionals. Students receive rigorous training in patient care, health promotion, and disease prevention through a curriculum that strategically balances classroom learning with hands-on clinical experiences. The program provides strong foundational skills for nursing practice, emphasizing both theoretical knowledge and practical application. Prospective students must meet academic requirements and may explore financial aid opportunities. As a Roman Catholic and military-friendly institution, the college supports diverse student backgrounds and career development goals.

  • Campus-based program
  • Focuses on patient care
  • Health promotion emphasis
  • Disease prevention training
  • Blends theory and practice
  • Financial aid available
  • Strong nursing foundation

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (LPN to BSN)

Campus Based - Visit Website

The College of Saint Mary's LPN to BSN pathway provides licensed practical nurses an accelerated route to expand their professional credentials. This specialized program bridges critical knowledge gaps, enabling LPNs to advance their nursing expertise and career opportunities. Designed for working professionals, the curriculum covers sophisticated nursing practices, healthcare systems, and advanced patient care strategies. Admission requires an active LPN license and meeting specific academic standards. The program's flexible structure allows nurses to seamlessly transition from practical nursing to a more comprehensive bachelor's level understanding, positioning graduates for enhanced healthcare roles and increased professional mobility.

  • Campus-based program.
  • For LPNs advancing to BSN.
  • Focuses on advanced nursing practices.
  • Requires LPN license for admission.
  • Check website for cost details.
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#5

Creighton University

Omaha, NE - Private 4-year - creighton.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Nestled in Omaha, Creighton University's BSN program distinguishes itself through a comprehensive 128-credit curriculum that prioritizes holistic nursing education. Prospective students encounter a rigorous admissions process involving high school GPA and standardized test scores, ensuring a competitive cohort. The program's stellar 93% NCLEX pass rate underscores its academic excellence, while hands-on clinical experiences prepare students for diverse healthcare environments. Rooted in Roman Catholic traditions, the program emphasizes ethical practice and professional development. With small class sizes, students benefit from personalized instruction and mentorship. The university's hospital on-campus provides unique clinical exposure, enhancing practical skills and professional networking opportunities for aspiring nurses.

  • 128 credit curriculum.
  • Direct freshman admission.
  • 93% NCLEX pass rate.
  • 100% employment rate post-graduation.
  • Hands-on clinical experience.
  • Accredited by CCNE.
  • Financial aid available.
  • Small cohort sizes.
  • Emphasis on ethical standards.
  • Strong alumni network.
*Data source: NCES Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System, 2023.

Nebraska LPN Program Overview

Nebraska’s LPN programs blend classroom instruction in anatomy, pharmacology, and nursing fundamentals with supervised clinical rotations in hospitals, long‑term care facilities, and rural health clinics. Students gain practical skills administering medications, monitoring vital signs, and supporting patient recovery under professional supervision. After passing the NCLEX‑PN exam and obtaining Nebraska licensure, graduates bolster the state’s practical nursing workforce, enhancing access to quality care across both metropolitan areas like Omaha and Lincoln and smaller communities.

Nebraska CNA Program Overview

Nebraska’s CNA courses run approximately six to twelve weeks, merging classroom instruction in hygiene best practices and vital‑sign monitoring with supervised hands‑on practicums. Students practice feeding, grooming, and mobility assistance while maintaining precise care records. After certification, graduates bolster healthcare teams in both urban medical centers and small‑town clinics. Their foundational care enables nurses to focus on advanced treatments.

Nebraska RN to BSN Program Overview

Nebraska’s RN to BSN pathways blend self-paced online study in areas like nursing leadership, population and community health, informatics and health policy with supervised clinical rotations at both urban medical centers and rural health clinics. Structured in part-time and accelerated options, these programs let RNs keep working while they complete their bachelor’s degree. Earning a BSN sharpens skills in evidence-driven practice and interdisciplinary coordination, meets employer and accreditation standards for degree-prepared nurses, and opens doors to leadership, specialty certification and public health roles statewide. By advancing their education, Nebraska’s nurses are better equipped to address diverse healthcare needs from city hospitals to frontier communities.

Nebraska Nurse Practitioner (NP) Program Overview

Nebraska’s Nurse Practitioner programs take BSN-prepared nurses into advanced-practice roles through comprehensive graduate study and hands-on clinical immersions, typically spanning two to four years, in areas like family health, pediatrics, and psychiatric-mental health. Offered through on-campus cohorts, hybrid models, and fully online tracks at universities and health systems statewide, these MSN and DNP pathways equip nurses for APRN certification and Nebraska licensure. Graduates serve as primary care providers, chronic care coordinators, and telehealth specialists in metropolitan hospitals, community clinics, and the state’s many rural and frontier communities. By supplying expert clinicians to regions with limited physician coverage and enhancing care continuity, NP programs play a crucial role in strengthening Nebraska’s healthcare delivery.

Traditional RN Degree Types

DegreeTypical LengthPrerequisitesOutcome / Notes
Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN)~2 yearsHigh school diploma or GEDCommon entry path in rural areas, BSN preferred in Omaha and Lincoln hospitals
RN Diploma2-3 yearsHigh school diploma or GEDNo longer offered in Nebraska
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)4 years (12-18 months accelerated)High school diploma or ADN transferBSN-in-10 requirement, RN-to-BSN widely available online for rural nurses
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)2 years (post-BSN)BSN + RN licensePrepares for advanced roles, NPs have full practice authority statewide
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)3-6 years (post-BSN or post-MSN)BSN or MSN + RN licenseHighest degree, DNP-prepared NPs practice independently with full authority

List of RN Programs in Nebraska

Nebraska offers aspiring nurses a variety of quality nursing education programs across the state. These registered nursing (RN) programs provide students with comprehensive training, clinical experiences, and pathways to launch successful healthcare careers. Whether you're looking for community college options, university-based programs, or specialized nursing tracks, Nebraska's nursing schools deliver robust educational opportunities to help students become skilled and compassionate healthcare professionals.
Jump to City:

Crete, NE

Doane University

  • Bachelor's - Nursing, R.N. to B.S.N.

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format
    • Requires current RN license
    • Focus on leadership and policy
    • Liberal arts education foundation
    • Prepares for global health challenges
    • Innovative problem-solving curriculum
    • Professional development emphasis
    • Healthcare economics included

Fremont, NE

Midland University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Traditional Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • 4-year program
    • NCLEX preparation included
    • Clinical experiences in Fremont and Omaha
    • State-of-the-art simulation lab
    • Academic and career support
    • Open to high school and transfer students
    • Hands-on nursing training
    • Dedicated advising

Grand Island, NE

Central Community College

  • Associate - Associate Degree Nursing (ADN)

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • Multiple location options
    • ACEN accredited
    • Requires Nurse Aide course
    • Background check needed
    • Drug testing required
    • Uniforms and books extra

Lincoln, NE

Bryan College of Health Sciences

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Nursing Degree

    Campus Based - Website

    • 12-month BSN program
    • 3.0 GPA requirement
    • 1:6 clinical ratio
    • 1,200+ clinical hours
    • 100% NCLEX pass rate
    • Job guarantee
    • Starting salary up to $60,000
    • Prerequisite courses required
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Low 1:6 faculty-to-student ratio
    • Over 1,200 clinical hours
    • 100% NCLEX pass rate
    • Job guarantee upon acceptance
    • No prerequisites required
    • Comprehensive curriculum
    • Hands-on learning experiences
    • State-of-the-art Simulation Center

Nebraska Wesleyan University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 4-year BSN degree
    • Over 800 clinical hours
    • Small class sizes
    • NCLEX-RN prep course
    • Competitive admission
    • 3.0 GPA requirement
    • Direct entry options
    • Experienced faculty

Southeast Community College Area

  • Associate - Associate Degree Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
    • Offers LPN-to-RN option.
    • Accredited by ACEN.
    • Available in Lincoln, NE.
    • Hybrid/In-Person formats.
    • Fall/Spring/Summer starts.
    • Full-time schedule.
    • Estimated cost $11,685.

Union Adventist University

  • Bachelor's - Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Established in 1896.
    • High NCLEX-RN pass rates.
    • Four-year curriculum for freshmen.
    • Five-semester track for transfers.
    • Over 900 clinical hours.
    • Accredited by CCNE.
    • LPN-BSN and RN-BSN options.
    • Sigma Theta Tau chapter.

Norfolk, NE

Northeast Community College

  • Associate - Associate Degree Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Accredited by ACEN.
    • Approved by Nebraska State Board.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
    • Mix of theory and clinical courses.
    • Hands-on experience in local settings.
    • Part-time and full-time options.
    • High NCLEX-RN pass rates.
    • Excellent job opportunities.

Omaha, NE

Clarkson College

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format.
    • Small class sizes.
    • Early hands-on learning.
    • 2.5 GPA requirement.
    • Eligible for NCLEX-RN.
    • Focus on critical thinking.
    • Leadership development.
    • Compassionate care emphasis.

College of Saint Mary

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (LPN to BSN)

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program.
    • For LPNs advancing to BSN.
    • Focuses on advanced nursing practices.
    • Requires LPN license for admission.
    • Check website for cost details.
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program
    • Focuses on patient care
    • Health promotion emphasis
    • Disease prevention training
    • Blends theory and practice
    • Financial aid available
    • Strong nursing foundation

Creighton University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 128 credit curriculum.
    • Direct freshman admission.
    • 93% NCLEX pass rate.
    • 100% employment rate post-graduation.
    • Hands-on clinical experience.
    • Accredited by CCNE.
    • Financial aid available.
    • Small cohort sizes.

Metropolitan Community College Area

  • Associate - Nursing - Associate Degree

    Campus Based - Website

    • Associate Degree in Nursing
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN licensure
    • ACEN accredited program
    • Combines instruction, labs, clinicals
    • Affordable tuition options
    • Financial aid available
    • Located in Omaha, NE
    • High-quality nursing education

Nebraska Methodist College

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • CCNE-accredited program
    • 93.3% NCLEX pass rate
    • 96% employment rate
    • Four-year, on-campus experience
    • Hands-on clinical training
    • Minimum 2.5 GPA required
    • Prerequisite courses needed
    • Focus on clinical reasoning

University of Nebraska Medical Center

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Accelerated

    Campus Based - Website

    • 12-month duration
    • 97.64% NCLEX pass rate
    • 760 clinical training hours
    • Accredited by CCNE
    • Five campus locations
    • Full-time course load
    • State-of-the-art simulators
    • Clinical rotations available
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Traditional

    Campus Based - Website

    • High NCLEX pass rate 97.64%
    • Full or part-time options
    • Five campus locations
    • 760 hours clinical training
    • Flexible progression
    • Accredited by CCNE
    • Two to three years duration
    • Fall semester start dates
  • Bachelor's - Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program
    • Accredited by CCNE
    • Full or part-time options
    • 2-6 semesters duration
    • Starts in August, January, May
    • Focus on leadership skills
    • Evidence-based practice curriculum
    • Flexible clinical training

Seward, NE

Concordia University-Nebraska

  • Bachelor's - BSN Dual Degree 3+1 Nursing Program

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Accelerated dual degree program
    • Christian perspective curriculum
    • Mentorship from both universities
    • Financial aid available
    • 149 credit hours
    • 100% career outcome rate
    • 14:1 student-to-faculty ratio
    • Hybrid program type
*U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS 2023 institutional data.