Maria Delgado, RN
June 26, 2025
Rhode Island’s nursing programs offer a comprehensive range of pathways to support both emerging and experienced healthcare professionals across the Ocean State. Whether you’re earning your first credential as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), advancing from Registered Nurse (RN) to complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), pursuing licensure as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), or training for advanced practice as a Nurse Practitioner (NP), the state’s colleges, universities, and health systems blend robust academic instruction with hands‑on clinical rotations. With flexible online coursework to accommodate working learners and immersive practicum experiences at accredited care facilities, Rhode Island’s nursing education prepares graduates with the skills, credentials, and competitive salary potential needed to thrive in diverse clinical environments.
Newport, RI - Private 4-year - salve.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Salve Regina University's Bachelor's Degree in Nursing prepares students for a rewarding career in healthcare. The program offers two tracks: a pre-licensure track for high school graduates and a degree completion track for registered nurses. With a focus on patient-centered care, students gain hands-on experience through clinical placements. The curriculum covers essential topics like health assessment, pharmacology, and public health. Graduates are ready to take the NCLEX-RN and pursue advanced degrees. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, ensuring high-quality education.
Online Learning - Visit Website
Salve Regina University's RN to B.S. in Nursing program is designed for licensed registered nurses seeking to advance their careers. This fully online program offers a flexible, affordable path to a bachelor's degree, with six start dates per year and completion possible in as few as 12 months. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, the program focuses on patient-centered care, preparing graduates to meet the future health needs of diverse populations. Students benefit from a holistic approach, gaining the skills to impact individual and community health positively. Financial aid and preferred tuition rates are available for eligible students.
Providence, RI - Private 4-year - jwu.edu
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Johnson & Wales University offers an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program, perfect for those with a bachelor's degree looking to fast-track their nursing career. This 16-month hybrid program combines online and in-person learning, focusing on patient-centered care. With scholarships up to $12,000 available, it's designed to address the nursing shortage. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA and specific prerequisite courses. The program includes clinical rotations in various specialties, preparing graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam. Small cohort sizes ensure personalized attention, fostering close bonds among students.
East Greenwich, RI - Private 4-year - neit.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Associate of Science in Nursing at New England Institute of Technology prepares students for a rewarding career in healthcare. This campus-based program is designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge in just 18 months. Ideal for those looking to enter the nursing field quickly, the program focuses on practical, hands-on learning. While specific cost and admissions details vary, prospective students can expect a comprehensive curriculum that meets industry standards. This program is a great choice for individuals at various life stages seeking a fast-track into nursing.
Providence, RI - Public 4-Year - ric.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Rhode Island College's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program stands out for its rigorous academic foundation and hands-on clinical placements. Designed for aspiring nurses, the program covers essential topics like health promotion, medical-surgical nursing, and pediatric nursing. Students benefit from learning at state-of-the-art facilities, including the Rhode Island Nursing Education Center. With a focus on preparing graduates for high-demand nursing roles, the program offers a pathway to diverse career opportunities in healthcare. Admissions requirements include meeting academic standards, with details available on the college's website. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, ensuring a quality education that meets national standards.
Kingston, RI - Public 4-Year - web.uri.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Rhode Island's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program prepares students for a rewarding career in healthcare. This campus-based program focuses on developing knowledgeable, compassionate nurses ready to lead in diverse healthcare settings. With a curriculum that blends foundational theory and hands-on clinical experiences, students gain the skills needed for patient-centered care across various populations. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN for licensure. The program requires 120 credits over four years, including general education and nursing-specific courses. Admission requires a strong science background and a GPA over 3.0 for readmission candidates. Clinical experiences are offered in hospitals, community agencies, and more across Rhode Island.
Rhode Island’s LPN programs blend targeted coursework in anatomy, pharmacology and nursing fundamentals with hands‑on clinical rotations in hospitals, nursing homes and community clinics. Students learn to administer medications, monitor vital signs and support patient care under professional supervision. After passing the NCLEX‑PN exam and earning state licensure, graduates bolster Rhode Island’s practical nursing workforce, enhancing access to quality care across both Providence’s urban centers and the state’s smaller communities.
Rhode Island’s CNA courses run six to twelve weeks, merging classroom instruction on infection control and vital‑sign monitoring with hands‑on practicums. Learners practice assisting with personal care, feeding, and mobility, honing their documentation and reporting techniques. After certification, CNAs join care teams in both residential and clinical environments. Their role is essential for sustaining patient well‑being and supporting licensed nurses.
Rhode Island’s RN to BSN pathways blend self-paced online instruction in nursing leadership, population health, informatics and policy with hands-on clinical practicums at its academic hospitals and community health centers. Offered in both part-time and accelerated tracks, these programs let RNs balance work and study as they pursue a BSN. Completing the baccalaureate sharpens critical-thinking and evidence-based practice skills, aligns with employer and accreditation expectations, and unlocks opportunities in specialty certification, leadership and public health roles across the state’s healthcare landscape.
| Degree | Typical Length | Prerequisites | Outcome / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) | ~2 years | High school diploma or GED | Still available at CCRI, many graduates continue to BSN programs |
| RN Diploma | 2-3 years | High school diploma or GED | No longer offered in Rhode Island |
| Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) | 4 years (12-18 months accelerated) | High school diploma or ADN transfer | BSN-in-10 state, BSN-prepared nurses preferred in all major healthcare systems |
| Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) | 2 years (post-BSN) | BSN + RN license | Prepares 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 license | Highest degree, DNP-prepared NPs practice independently statewide |
Campus Based - Website
Campus Based - Website
Campus Based - Website
Online Learning - Website
Online & Campus Based - Website
Online & Campus Based - Website
Campus Based - Website
Campus Based - Website
Campus Based - Website
Online Learning - Website