Top Nursing Schools & Programs in New Mexico

Top Nursing Schools in New Mexico
Jake Flannigan, NP

Jake Flannigan, NP

June 26, 2025

New Mexico’s nursing programs span every stage of professional growth, offering clear pathways from entry‑level certification to advanced clinical practice. Whether you’re earning your credential as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), advancing from Registered Nurse (RN) to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), pursuing licensure as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), or training to become a Nurse Practitioner (NP), the state’s community colleges, universities, and health systems blend rigorous academics with hands‑on clinical learning. With flexible online coursework paired with immersive practicum experiences at accredited healthcare facilities, New Mexico’s nursing programs equip graduates with the knowledge, credentials, and competitive salary potential needed to excel across diverse care settings.

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2026 Top Nursing Programs in New Mexico

New Mexico boasts an impressive array of nursing programs that stand out for their quality and innovation. TopNursing.org has carefully evaluated and ranked the state's top nursing education options, providing aspiring nurses with a comprehensive guide to their academic journey. From established university programs to cutting-edge nursing schools, New Mexico offers diverse pathways for students seeking excellence in healthcare education. Our rankings consider factors like clinical training opportunities, faculty expertise, student outcomes, and program flexibility. Whether you're interested in becoming a registered nurse, pursuing an advanced degree, or specializing in a specific nursing field, these programs provide robust educational experiences that prepare students for successful healthcare careers. Learn more about our comprehensive ranking methodology.
#1

Eastern New Mexico University

Portales, NM - Public 4-Year - enmu.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Online Learning - Visit Website

Eastern New Mexico University's 100% online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Completion Program offers working professionals a flexible pathway to advance their nursing career. Designed for registered nurses, this streamlined program allows full-time students to complete their degree in just 16 months. With ACEN accreditation and 8-week courses, students can enhance their critical thinking, clinical judgment, and professional development. The program boasts an impressive 98% employment rate for graduates and provides comprehensive learning outcomes focused on ethical, high-quality patient care across diverse healthcare settings.

  • 100% online ACEN accredited program
  • 8-week course format
  • RN licensure required for entry
  • Full-time students complete in 16 months
  • 98% employment rate for graduates
  • No application fee
  • Rolling admission
  • Designed for working professionals
#2

University of New Mexico

Albuquerque, NM - Public 4-Year - unm.edu

Bachelor's - Pre-Licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of New Mexico's Pre-Licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program prepares aspiring nurses for dynamic healthcare careers. Designed for students without an RN license, the program offers five unique entry paths, including freshman direct-entry, campus-based options, and an accelerated second-degree track. Students complete comprehensive prerequisites in biology, chemistry, psychology, and nursing-specific courses. The rigorous curriculum combines in-person learning with advanced simulation experiences, equipping graduates with critical skills for modern healthcare environments.

  • Five BSN entry options
  • In-person clinical training
  • Multiple campus locations
  • Simulation skills training
  • Comprehensive prerequisite requirements
  • Pathway to graduate studies
  • Second degree accelerated option

Bachelor's - Accelerated 2nd Degree BSN Option

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Accelerated 2nd Degree BSN Option at the University of New Mexico-Main Campus is designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree and are looking to transition into nursing. This 16-month program offers a fast-paced curriculum with a focus on hands-on learning through clinical experiences and state-of-the-art simulation labs. Students benefit from a low student-to-faculty ratio and diverse clinical placements, including opportunities within the UNM Health System. The program prepares graduates for a rewarding career in nursing, with a strong emphasis on interprofessional learning and community engagement.

  • 16-month program duration.
  • 8:1 student to faculty ratio.
  • Diverse clinical experiences.
  • State-of-the-art simulation labs.
  • No HESI exam required.
  • Cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher.
  • Prerequisite courses required.
  • Bachelor's degree required.
  • On-campus program.
  • Interprofessional learning opportunities.

Bachelor's - Freshman Direct-Entry BSN Option

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Freshman Direct-Entry BSN Option at the University of New Mexico is designed for high school seniors meeting specific criteria, offering a direct path to a nursing career. This program combines rigorous academic coursework with hands-on clinical experiences, preparing students for the challenges of modern healthcare. Admission requires meeting pre-established criteria, with a focus on students ready to commit to nursing early. The program emphasizes patient care, leadership, and evidence-based practice, setting a solid foundation for future healthcare professionals. Financial aid and scholarships are available to eligible students, making this an accessible option for aspiring nurses.

  • Direct entry for high school seniors.
  • Combines academic and clinical training.
  • Focus on patient care and leadership.
  • Financial aid available.
  • Prepares for modern healthcare challenges.
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#3

Brookline College-Albuquerque

Albuquerque, NM - Private 4-year - brooklinecollege.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at Brookline College in Albuquerque, NM, is designed for aspiring nurses seeking a comprehensive education. This hybrid program combines online coursework with hands-on clinical experiences, preparing students for the NCLEX-RN exam. With a focus on patient care across various settings, the curriculum covers adult health, pediatrics, and mental health nursing. The program boasts year-round enrollment, no wait lists, and personalized academic support. Financial aid options are available to help manage the cost of $102,429.33, including NM Gross Receipt Tax. Start your nursing journey in a supportive environment that values your career success.

  • CCNE-accredited program
  • Hybrid learning format
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
  • Year-round enrollment
  • No wait lists
  • Personalized academic support
  • Hands-on clinical experiences
  • Comprehensive curriculum
  • Financial aid available
  • Career services support

Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Brookline College in Albuquerque, NM, offers an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program designed for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor's degree or completed general education credits. This hybrid program blends online coursework with hands-on training, allowing students to earn their BSN in as little as 16 months. The curriculum covers essential nursing topics, including pharmacology, adult health, and leadership in healthcare, preparing graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam. With personalized tutoring, career services, and a tuition forgiveness program for eligible students, Brookline College supports your journey into nursing. Admissions require a HESI exam and specific prerequisite courses, with financial aid options available to help manage costs.

  • 16-month program duration
  • Hybrid online and campus learning
  • NCLEX-RN exam preparation
  • Tuition forgiveness program available
  • Personalized tutoring services
  • Career services support
  • HESI admission assessment required
  • Prerequisite courses needed
  • Financial aid options
  • Hands-on clinical training
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#4

New Mexico State University

Las Cruces, NM - Public 4-Year - nmsu.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

New Mexico State University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) prepares students for a dynamic healthcare career, offering comprehensive training across multiple campuses. The rigorous four-year, 124-125 credit program equips students with advanced clinical skills and theoretical knowledge, positioning graduates for successful registered nurse licensure through the NCLEX-RN exam. With competitive admission standards and a statewide curriculum, students benefit from high-quality nursing education, practical clinical experiences, and multiple pathway options for diverse student backgrounds.

  • Four-year, 124-125 credit BSN
  • Multiple campus locations
  • NCLEX-RN exam preparation
  • Competitive admission process
  • Minimum 2.75 nursing GPA required
  • HESI Admission Assessment required
  • Science courses within 7 years
  • Clinical vaccination requirements
  • CCNE accredited program
  • New Mexico Board of Nursing approved
#5

Northern New Mexico College

Espanola, NM - Public 4-Year - nnmc.edu

Associate - Associate Degree Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Northern New Mexico College offers an Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program designed for those passionate about making a difference in healthcare. This program, accredited by ACEN, prepares students for a rewarding nursing career in just five semesters. With a focus on hands-on learning, students gain experience in various healthcare settings. The program boasts exceptional faculty, personalized support, and strong community partnerships, ensuring graduates are ready to meet the high demand for skilled nurses. Prerequisite courses can be completed in one semester, making the path to your nursing career faster and more accessible.

  • Accredited by ACEN.
  • 5-semester completion.
  • Hands-on clinical experiences.
  • Exceptional faculty support.
  • Strong community partnerships.
  • High job security.
  • Prerequisites in one semester.
  • Campus-based program.
  • Prepares for BSN continuation.
  • Affordable education.
*Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) 2023, National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. Department of Education.

New Mexico LPN Program Overview

New Mexico’s LPN programs combine targeted coursework in anatomy, pharmacology, and nursing fundamentals with hands‑on clinical rotations in hospitals, long‑term care facilities, and community health centers. Students gain practical experience administering medications, monitoring vital signs, and supporting patient recovery under professional supervision. After passing the NCLEX‑PN exam and obtaining New Mexico licensure, graduates step into roles that alleviate RN and physician workloads and expand access to care. By strengthening the practical nursing workforce across both urban centers like Albuquerque and rural communities throughout the state, these programs help ensure consistent, quality healthcare for all New Mexicans.

New Mexico CNA Program Overview

New Mexico’s CNA pathways span six to twelve weeks, combining classroom training on infection prevention and cultural‑competency in care with practical practicums. Students develop hands‑on expertise in daily‑living assistance, vital‑sign monitoring, and patient communication. After certification, graduates support diverse care teams, from urban hospitals to tribal health centers. Their presence is vital for extending quality care into all corners of the state.

New Mexico RN to BSN Program Overview

New Mexico’s RN to BSN programs blend self-paced online learning in areas like nursing leadership, rural and community health, informatics and policy with supervised clinical experiences at both regional hospitals and frontier clinics. Designed for flexibility, these bridge pathways offer part-time and accelerated tracks so you can juggle work shifts alongside coursework. Completing a BSN enriches skills in evidence-based practice and interdisciplinary coordination, meets employer and accreditation standards, and unlocks leadership, specialty certification and public health roles across New Mexico.

New Mexico Nurse Practitioner (NP) Program Overview

New Mexico’s Nurse Practitioner programs build on a BSN foundation by blending advanced graduate coursework with hands-on clinical residencies, typically completed over two to four years, in areas such as family health, pediatric care, and psychiatric-mental health. Delivered through on-campus cohorts, hybrid schedules, and fully online tracks at universities and tribal health systems statewide, these MSN and DNP pathways equip nurses for APRN certification and New Mexico licensure. Graduates assume roles as primary care providers, chronic disease coordinators, and telehealth specialists in urban centers like Albuquerque and Santa Fe, frontier community clinics, and reservation health facilities. By supplying expertly trained practitioners to regions with physician shortages and extending high-level care into rural and underserved areas, NP programs are vital to bolstering New Mexico’s healthcare infrastructure.

Traditional RN Degree Types

DegreeTypical LengthPrerequisitesOutcome / Notes
Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN)~2 yearsHigh school diploma or GEDCommon entry in rural/tribal areas, many transition to RN-to-BSN programs
RN Diploma2-3 yearsHigh school diploma or GEDNo longer offered in New Mexico
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)4 years (12-18 months accelerated)High school diploma or ADN transferBSN-in-10 state, BSN-prepared nurses strongly preferred statewide
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)2 years (post-BSN)BSN + RN licensePrepares for advanced roles, NPs have full practice authority
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)3-6 years (post-BSN or post-MSN)BSN or MSN + RN licenseHighest degree, DNP-prepared NPs practice independently statewide

List of RN Programs in New Mexico

Jump to City:

Alamogordo, NM

New Mexico State University-Alamogordo

  • Associate - Associates of Applied Science in Nursing (AASN)

    Campus Based - Website

    • Approved by NMBON
    • Five semesters length
    • Campus-based program
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • Accredited by HLC
    • Experienced faculty
    • Hands-on healthcare immersion
    • AASN degree offered

Albuquerque, NM

Brookline College-Albuquerque

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 16-month program duration
    • Hybrid online and campus learning
    • NCLEX-RN exam preparation
    • Tuition forgiveness program available
    • Personalized tutoring services
    • Career services support
    • HESI admission assessment required
    • Prerequisite courses needed
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CCNE-accredited program
    • Hybrid learning format
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
    • Year-round enrollment
    • No wait lists
    • Personalized academic support
    • Hands-on clinical experiences
    • Comprehensive curriculum

Central New Mexico Community College

  • Associate - Nursing (AAS), LPN to RN Mobility Option

    Concentration: LPN to RN Mobility - Campus Based - Website

    • LPN to RN pathway
    • Requires NM LPN license
    • 2.75 GPA prerequisite
    • 2.0 cumulative GPA
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • Credit for prior learning
    • Clinical skills focus
    • Theoretical knowledge emphasis
  • Associate - Nursing (AAS), NMNEC Concentration

    Concentration: NMNEC - Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program
    • NMNEC Concentration
    • Requires HESI A2 exam
    • 2.75 GPA prerequisite
    • 2.0 cumulative GPA
    • Seats available every term
    • Clinical preparation focus
    • Hands-on experience
  • Associate - Nursing (AAS)

    Campus Based - Website

    • Hands-on patient care training.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
    • ACEN accredited program.
    • Financial aid available.
    • Combines classroom and clinical learning.
    • Meets NM Board of Nursing requirements.
    • Pathway to further nursing education.
    • Focus on critical thinking skills.

Pima Medical Institute-Albuquerque

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

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program, one year duration
    • Designed for working nurses
    • Leadership and management focus
    • Requires active RN license
    • Accredited by CCNE
    • Enhances career opportunities
    • Covers evidence-based research
    • Community health perspectives

University of New Mexico

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated 2nd Degree BSN Option

    Campus Based - Website

    • 16-month program duration.
    • 8:1 student to faculty ratio.
    • Diverse clinical experiences.
    • State-of-the-art simulation labs.
    • No HESI exam required.
    • Cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher.
    • Prerequisite courses required.
    • Bachelor's degree required.
  • Bachelor's - Freshman Direct-Entry BSN Option

    Campus Based - Website

    • Direct entry for high school seniors.
    • Combines academic and clinical training.
    • Focus on patient care and leadership.
    • Financial aid available.
    • Prepares for modern healthcare challenges.
  • Bachelor's - Pre-Licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Five BSN entry options
    • In-person clinical training
    • Multiple campus locations
    • Simulation skills training
    • Comprehensive prerequisite requirements
    • Pathway to graduate studies
    • Second degree accelerated option

Clovis, NM

Clovis Community College

  • Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program
    • Hands-on clinical rotations
    • Focus on evidence-based practice
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
    • Diverse healthcare settings
    • Requires prerequisite courses
    • Rigorous coursework
    • Expertise in pharmacology

Crownpoint, NM

Navajo Technical University

  • Associate - Registered Nurse

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based learning.
    • Hands-on nursing training.
    • Prepares for healthcare challenges.
    • For aspiring healthcare professionals.
    • Located in Crownpoint, NM.

Espanola, NM

Northern New Mexico College

  • Associate - Associate Degree Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Accredited by ACEN.
    • 5-semester completion.
    • Hands-on clinical experiences.
    • Exceptional faculty support.
    • Strong community partnerships.
    • High job security.
    • Prerequisites in one semester.
    • Campus-based program.

Farmington, NM

San Juan College

  • Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Two-year program duration.
    • 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate.
    • Hands-on clinical experience.
    • Affordable tuition rates.
    • Scholarship opportunities available.
    • Campus-based learning.
    • Prepares for registered nurse licensure.
    • Simulation lab training.
  • Bachelor's - Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing (BSN)

    Campus Based - Website

    • Two nursing degree paths
    • 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate
    • Simulation and clinical experience
    • Partnership with UNM
    • ACEN accredited program
    • Multiple healthcare settings
    • Potential tuition-free options

Gallup, NM

University of New Mexico-Gallup Campus

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

    Campus Based - Website

    • 128 total credit hours
    • Dual degree partnership program
    • Minimum 30 UNM credits required
    • ATI TEAS exam prerequisite
    • Associate and Bachelor's degrees

Hobbs, NM

New Mexico Junior College

  • Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Two-year program duration
    • State-of-the-art facilities
    • High NCLEX-RN pass rate
    • Patient-centered care focus
    • Diverse clinical practice opportunities
    • Affordable tuition options
    • Financial aid available
    • Applications due May 20th

Las Cruces, NM

New Mexico State University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Four-year, 124-125 credit BSN
    • Multiple campus locations
    • NCLEX-RN exam preparation
    • Competitive admission process
    • Minimum 2.75 nursing GPA required
    • HESI Admission Assessment required
    • Science courses within 7 years
    • Clinical vaccination requirements

New Mexico State University-Dona Ana

  • Associate - Associate in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 72 credits required.
    • Campus-based program.
    • C+ or better in technical courses.
    • 2.0 GPA minimum.
    • Includes NCLEX-RN preparation.
    • Covers adult health nursing.
    • Includes mental health nursing.
    • Maternal child nursing covered.
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Four-year, 124-125 credit program
    • Available at multiple campuses
    • NCLEX-RN exam preparation
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Competitive admission process
    • 2.75 minimum prerequisite GPA
    • Requires HESI A2 exam
    • Clinical experience included

Las Vegas, NM

Luna Community College

  • Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 71 credit hours required.
    • Concept-based learning model.
    • NCLEX-RN exam preparation.
    • Minimum 77% course grade.
    • TEAS exam for admission.
    • 2.75 GPA prerequisite.
    • Health care experience needed.
    • ACEN accredited program.

Los Lunas, NM

University of New Mexico-Valencia County Campus

  • Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program
    • Accredited by ACEN
    • Focuses on rural healthcare
    • High NCLEX-RN pass rates
    • Culturally competent training
    • Ethics and integrity emphasis
    • Hands-on experience
    • Prepares for RN licensure

Portales, NM

Eastern New Mexico University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online ACEN accredited program
    • 8-week course format
    • RN licensure required for entry
    • Full-time students complete in 16 months
    • 98% employment rate for graduates
    • No application fee
    • Rolling admission
    • Designed for working professionals

Ranchos de Taos, NM

University of New Mexico-Taos Campus

  • Associate - Associate of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Two-year program.
    • Campus-based learning.
    • Annual fall admission.
    • Requires ATI TEAS score.
    • 2.75 GPA prerequisite.
    • 40 credits nursing courses.
    • 78 total credits.
    • Hands-on training included.
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Two-year dual degree program
    • 65 total nursing credits
    • Five sequential semester structure
    • Comprehensive clinical training
    • Professional nursing skill development
    • Annual fall cohort admission
    • TEAS exam required for entry
    • Minimum 30 UNM credit hours

Roswell, NM

Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell

  • Associate - Associate of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Accredited by ACEN.
    • Regulated by NM Board of Nursing.
    • One year prerequisites required.
    • Two years nursing courses.
    • Minimum GPA 2.75 prerequisites.
    • Overall GPA 2.0 required.
    • TEAS score 58.7 or higher.
    • In-district tuition $1128.
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing, BSN Completion Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online ACEN accredited program
    • RN license required for entry
    • Completion possible in 16 months
    • 8-week course format
    • 98% graduate employment rate
    • Rolling admission available
    • No application fee
    • Designed for working professionals

Santa Fe, NM

Santa Fe Community College

  • Associate - Associate in Applied Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program
    • Pathway to BSN
    • High NCLEX pass rates
    • Affordable tuition
    • Financial aid available
    • Fall and spring admissions
    • Comprehensive nursing curriculum
    • Supportive learning environment
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 100% NCLEX exam pass rate
    • Partnership with UNM
    • Concept-based nursing education
    • Diverse healthcare career paths
    • ACEN accredited program
*Source: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023 survey data.