Easiest Nursing Schools to Get Into for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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2025 List of the Easiest Nursing Schools to Get Into

1. The University of North Carolina at Pembroke

The University of North Carolina at Pembroke emphasizes teaching, research, and community service and offers a four-year pre-licensure BSN program divided into two phases. The first consists of 58 semester credit hours of lower-division coursework, including liberal arts and nursing prerequisites, that provide a solid foundation in physical, social, and behavioral sciences. The second phase includes 62 semester credit hours of upper-division nursing courses to prepare students for nursing practice in various settings. Admission to the nursing program occurs at the upper-division level, with all lower-division courses needing completion beforehand.  

• Degrees Offered:
  • Pre-Licensure BSN
  • RN-BSN
  • RIBN (ADN-BSN dual degree)
  • MSN
  • RN-MSN
  • DNP
• Acceptance Rate: 91%
• BSN Cost per Credit: $152 (resident); $318.66 (nonresident)
• 2023 NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97%
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

2. Regis University

Along with academic performance, Regis University’s BSN program prioritizes healthcare experience, recommendations, and personal statements. Moreover, the nursing program focuses on holistic patient care to emphasize discussions on values, ethics, and social justice. Service Learning is another integral part of the program as it fosters volunteerism through coordinated projects. Students also engage in diverse clinical experiences to gain specialized knowledge and hands-on training. Aside from its traditional and accelerated BSN programs, the university offers a CHOICE Program dedicated to healthcare professionals who wish to pursue nursing.

• Degrees Offered:
  • BSN
  • Accelerated BSN (non-BSN)
  • MSN
  • DNP
  • BSN-DNP
• Acceptance Rate: 100%
• BSN Cost per Credit: $1,566 (part-time)
• 2023 NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 91.46%
• Accreditation: CCNE

3. The University of Texas at El Paso

At the University of Texas at El Paso, the traditional BSN program offers a professional curriculum based on an innovative integrated and conceptual teaching model. Grounded in the sciences, the program builds progressively complex nursing care concepts and practices. Each course covers care across the lifespan, focusing on increasing complexity, breadth, and depth. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking and decision-making to ensure comprehensive nursing care. The four-semester nursing curriculum can be completed in 15 to 24 months, providing an efficient pathway to a nursing career.

• Degrees Offered:
  • BSN
  • RN-BSN
  • MSN
  • DNP
• Acceptance Rate: 100%
• BSN Cost per Credit: $440.30 (resident); $955.90 (nonresident)
• 2023 NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96.49% 
• Accreditation: CCNE

4. Georgia State University

Georgia State University offers a traditional BSN based on a comprehensive liberal arts education, encompassing mathematics, sciences, language arts, social sciences, and theoretical and clinical nursing practice. The program spans eight academic semesters, with the first four dedicated to the core curriculum and nursing prerequisites and the last four focused on the nursing major and relevant electives. Students gain essential nursing skills through classroom instruction, nursing labs, simulation centers, clinical facilities, and community-based agencies. The curriculum also emphasizes developing clinical judgment by integrating theoretical knowledge and practical skills in simulated and real-world settings.

• Degrees Offered:
  • ASN
  • BSN
  • LPN-BSN
  • RN-BSN
  • MSN
  • RN-MSN
  • DNP
  • Nursing PhD
• Acceptance Rate: 100%
• BSN Cost per Semester: $4,474 (resident); $13,993 (nonresident)
• 2023 NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 83.64%
• Accreditation: CCNE

5. Oklahoma Wesleyan University

Oklahoma Wesleyan University offers a BSN designed to equip students with the essential technical and scientific skills needed in contemporary nursing. The curriculum is enriched with humanities courses, reflecting the university’s dedication to liberal arts education. Courses are taught with an emphasis on biblical truth, integrating spiritual well-being into patient care. The program features a state-of-the-art simulation lab with various mannequins and an annual disaster drill with live actors, providing a robust and practical training experience. The university has an array of degree programs for various types of nurses and also offers an LPN to BSN Scholarship.

• Degrees Offered:
  • BSN
  • LPN/RN-BSN
  • Diploma BSN
  • RN-BSN (non-BSN)
  • MSN/MBA dual degree
  • BSN-DNP
  • MSN-DNP
  • FNP-DNP
• Acceptance Rate: 83%
• BSN Cost per Semester: $15,775 (full-time resident)
• 2023 NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 83.33%
• Accreditation: CCNE

6.  California State University, Fresno

California State University, Fresno (Fresno State) offers a BSN program that requires a minimum of 120 semester units, with the nursing curriculum spanning five semesters. Aside from being eligible to take the nursing licensure exam, graduates can take the California Public Health Nurse Certificate. The program caters to two types of applicants: those with prior nursing education, including LVNs and RNs, and those without any prior nursing education. One of the university’s student services is the Nursing Resource Center, which provides a relaxed and professional environment in which students can learn, practice, and demonstrate nursing procedures. The program is dedicated to offering relevant and realistic simulated experiences to ensure high-quality nursing care.

• Degrees Offered:
  • BSN
  • RN-BSN
  • MSN
  • DNP
• Acceptance Rate: 97%
• Yearly Tuition and Fees: $6,980
• 2023 NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 89.39%
• Accreditation: CCNE

7. Lewis-Clark State College

Lewis-Clark State College aims to create a supportive, student-centered learning environment that equips nursing graduates with the knowledge and skills to meet diverse client needs. The program emphasizes patient safety and quality care through evidence-based practice. Furthermore, the curriculum delves into the science of nursing to ensure comprehensive, high-quality education. Admission is based on patterns of grades in prerequisite coursework, as well as other requirements. Lastly, graduates are prepared to become engaged citizens, advocates, lifelong learners, and effective nurse leaders. 

• Degrees Offered:
  • Pre-Licensure BSN
  • LPN-BSN
  • CC-BSN
  • RN-BSN
  • MSN Nursing Leadership
• Acceptance Rate: 100%
• Cost per Semester: $3,805 (resident); $11,014 (nonresident) 
• 2023 NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96.05%
• Accreditation: CCNE

8. Sam Houston State University

With its Pre-Nursing and BSN programs, Sam Houston State University aims to meet the growing demand for skilled nurses. The Pre-Nursing program, a lower-level specific track, includes core curriculum courses and nursing prerequisites. Meanwhile, the upper-level BSN program combines theoretical coursework with practical experience across various clinical settings, preparing graduates to be eligible for the NCLEX-RN. Pre-nursing classes are held at the main campus in Huntsville, Texas. BSN students go to The Woodlands Center, which features expanded study spaces, clinical labs, and classrooms and are conveniently located near five major healthcare systems. 

• Degrees Offered:
  • Pre-Nursing
  • BSN
  • RN-BSN
  • LVN-BSN
• Acceptance Rate: 97%
• Cost per Credit: $636.60 (resident); $1,046.60 (nonresident) 
• 2023 NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93.63%
• Accreditation: CCNE

9. Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

The Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS) offers two pathways to earn a BSN: an accelerated and a post-baccalaureate option. The accelerated 32-month program at the Boston campus combines classwork with real-world experience. Students work with nursing experts in simulation and patient assessment labs and participate in rotations at prestigious medical and research institutions. Meanwhile, the 16-month postbaccalaureate program offers immersive nursing education to non-BSN graduates. Students engage in clinical experiences with experts in simulation labs and medical facilities in Boston, Worcester, or Manchester.

• Degrees Offered:
  • Accelerated BSN
  • Post-baccalaureate BSN
  • MSN
  • RN-MSN
  • DNP
• Acceptance Rate: 98%
• Annual Tuition Cost: $56,820 
• 2023 NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 86% (Accelerated BSN), 90% (Post-baccalaureate BSN)
• Accreditation: CCNE

10. The University of New Mexico

The University of New Mexico offers five pathways to enter nursing: Freshmen Direct-Entry, Pre-Licensure BSN, ADN-BSN dual degree, RN-BSN, and Accelerated 2nd Degree programs. The Freshman Direct-Entry option guarantees admission for motivated high school seniors who meet specific criteria. Students receive guidance from nursing advisors, collaborate with faculty, and engage in research experiences. In addition, they are involved in community service, national nursing organizations, and volunteer activities. The university also provides students with clinical experiences in the UNM Health System.

• Degrees Offered:
  • BSN
  • RN-BSN
  • MSN
  • DNP
  • Nursing PhD
• Acceptance Rate: 97%
• Cost per Credit: $526.84 (resident); $1,252.88 (nonresident)
• 2023 NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 92.7%
• Accreditation: CCNE

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Their Nursing Schools

What are the differences in admission requirements between easy and competitive nursing schools?

After comparing various academic databases, I’ve observed that most higher educational institutions require the following of first-time undergraduate nursing applicants:

• High school diploma/GED
• Official transcripts
• Cumulative GPA of 2.50+
• SAT/ACT score 
• Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) V score of 70%+
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal essay
• Interview

Easy nursing schools may include some or all of these, but they generally have more lenient criteria. Understanding the differences in admission requirements can help you decide which nursing program is the best fit for you. 

For instance, competitive nursing schools usually require higher GPAs, at 3.0 to 3.5, and have stricter requirements for standardized tests or entrance exam scores. In contrast, many of the easiest nursing schools accept students with lower GPA thresholds. 

In addition, easy nursing schools may accept lower scores on exams like the TEAS V or Health Education Systems Incorporated (HESI) test. In a similar vein, some schools forego SAT/ACT scores to cater to a more diverse pool of applicants. They may also not require interviews or essays; if they do, the standards are less strict. 

Moreover, some easy nursing schools may offer flexibility in prerequisite courses or allow conditional admission while completing these requirements. Other schools may also present pre-licensure programs that assist students in fulfilling the academic requirements for a BSN program while meeting the eligibility criteria to become licensed registered nurses (RNs).

What are the acceptance rates in the easiest vs. competitive nursing schools?

The easiest nursing schools to get into typically have higher acceptance rates, ranging from 70% to 100%. These schools aim to provide more accessible educational opportunities to a broader demographic of students. 

This approach supports the growing demand for nurses by ensuring that more students can enter the field, particularly those who may not meet the high academic standards of other institutions.

Meanwhile, competitive nursing schools tend to have much lower acceptance rates, often between 10% and 50%. These schools receive a large number of applications but admit only the top candidates. 

The rigorous admission process ensures that only those with the highest academic achievements, test scores, and relevant experiences are accepted. 

Whether you’re aiming to get into traditional BSN programs or the cheapest online RN to BSN programs, the difference in acceptance rates reflects their varying missions and resources.

What are the pros and cons of enrolling in the easiest nursing schools?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there is a global need for around 4.5 million nurses by 2030. With various obstacles to meeting this demand, the availability of the easiest nursing schools becomes even more vital as they bridge the shortage gap and provide a steady influx of trained healthcare professionals. 

While this is not the only way to meet future demands, it gives aspiring nurses a chance to think about their prospects and career pathways. Below, I’ve highlighted the benefits and drawbacks of pursuing a program from nursing schools with high acceptance rates.

Pros:

• Accessibility: It makes nursing education accessible to a wider range of students, including those with non-nursing degrees or who took gap years. This inclusivity helps to diversify the nursing workforce, bringing in individuals from various backgrounds and experiences.
• Reduced Stress: With lower GPA and test score requirements, applicants can avoid the intense pressure associated with getting into more competitive programs. This can result in a more positive and less anxiety-inducing journey towards becoming a nurse.
• Emphasis on Holistic Admissions: These schools emphasize non-academic admissions requirements, like community service or work experiences, encouraging well-rounded evaluations and highlighting their unique strengths and potential contributions. 
• Flexibility: Many programs offer flexible scheduling options, including part-time, evening, or online classes. This is particularly beneficial for non-traditional learners like working students.

Cons:

• Perceived Quality: The perceived quality and prestige of the easiest nursing schools may be lower compared to more competitive programs. Employers and other educational institutions may favor graduates from more selective schools, which can impact job prospects.
• Resources and Facilities: Some nursing schools with high acceptance rates may have fewer resources and less advanced facilities than their competitive counterparts. This can affect the quality of clinical training and access to cutting-edge technology.
• Less Personalized Guidance: With more students per class, individual attention from instructors may be limited, making it harder for students to receive personalized guidance and support. Additionally, larger classes can lead to more competition for clinical placements and hands-on training opportunities. 
• Reputation and Outcomes: Though not always the case, the outcomes of graduates from easy nursing schools may vary, with some programs potentially having lower NCLEX pass rates or employment rates compared to more competitive institutions. 

Do easier nursing schools still offer quality education?

Despite their more tolerant admission criteria, the easiest nursing schools still provide a quality education that prepares students for successful nursing careers. An “easy” nursing school often refers to schools with higher acceptance rates and less competitive entry requirements. While they may not have the same level of selectivity as competitive programs, many easy nursing schools uphold rigorous academic standards and strive to deliver comprehensive curricula.

Additionally, they may focus on practical, hands-on training through clinical placements and simulation labs to ensure that students gain essential skills for patient care. Some easy nursing schools have also adapted to modern educational needs by offering online ABSN programs, which provide flexibility for students who cannot attend traditional on-campus classes.

The AACN (2024) reports that in 2023, 65,766 qualified applications were turned away by nursing colleges and universities, with the majority coming from entry-level BSN applications (55,111). The chart below further indicates the number of rejected applications by program type. This underscores the intense competition and high demand for nursing education, highlighting the need for accessible nursing schools.

What should I include in my nursing school application to increase my chances?

The easiest nursing schools look into well-rounded applications as part of their admissions processes. This means they consider a variety of factors beyond just academic performance. Showcasing specific qualifications and experiences relevant to the nursing profession can make your application stand out. Below are other key elements to include:

• Attention to Detail: Ensure your application materials are well-organized. Follow application instructions carefully and submit all required documents promptly.
• Volunteer Work: List community engagement activities you’ve headed or participated in, especially if they were at healthcare facilities, to demonstrate your commitment to the field.
• Relevant Healthcare Experience: Others who may have had past employment or work experiences in healthcare can detail their responsibilities and skills gained during this period. 
• Personal Statement: Craft a compelling essay that outlines your motivation for pursuing nursing and emphasizes personal experiences and aspirations.
• Letters of Recommendation: Select strong references, like teachers, employers, healthcare professionals, or other persons of authority, who can attest to your academic abilities and character.
• Extracurricular Activities: List involvement in relevant clubs or organizations related to healthcare and enumerate your initiatives or contributions.
• Interview Preparation: If required, prepare for interviews by researching the school and practicing answering common interview questions.
• Introductory Certifications: Obtain basic certifications, such as CPR or first aid training, to showcase your preparedness.
• Become a CNA: Consider becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Medical Assistant (MA) to strengthen your skills and experiences and potentially gain admittance to CNA-RN or MA to LPN bridge programs online.

What types of nursing programs are the easiest to get into?

The easiest nursing schools offer several types of degree programs. Knowing the distinctions between each type can provide insight into what you’ll be learning and the career opportunities available to you after graduation. Moreover, it can help you browse nursing schools that offer programs aligned with your goals. Generally, the following types of nursing degree programs tend to have higher acceptance rates:

• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): ADN programs typically span about two years and focus on foundational nursing skills and knowledge. These programs are offered at community colleges or vocational schools and provide quicker entry into the nursing profession with a focus on basic clinical competencies. Graduates are eligible to become RNs after taking the licensure exam.
• Bridge Programs: These programs are designed for CNAs and licensed practical/vocational nurses (LPN/LVNs) looking to advance their careers by becoming registered nurses. Similarly, RN-BSN bridge programs offer ADN-educated nurses a pathway to further their education by earning a BSN. They often have streamlined admission processes for nurses who meet specific academic and professional criteria. With a BSN, graduates can become RNs or hold entry-level leadership or managerial positions.
• Accelerated BSN (ABSN): ABSN programs cater to individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field and wish to transition into nursing. These programs can be completed within 12 to 18 months and offer flexibility through online coursework. Graduates of this program are prepared to take the nursing licensure exam to become RNs.

Applicants in these degree programs typically have fewer requirements or already fulfilled some of them. For example, CNAs and LPN/LVNs have completed some core nursing courses, while ADN-educated nurses may have obtained their RN licenses. 

Non-nursing graduates, such as those with a social work background or the cheapest online counseling degree, have finished general education or healthcare requirements. These can strengthen their candidacy for admission to programs that build upon their existing knowledge and skills.

Meanwhile, BSN, MSN, DNP, and Nursing PhD programs may have stricter admissions requirements. These programs seek candidates with robust academic backgrounds, extensive clinical experiences, and demonstrated leadership potential in nursing. The rigorous nature of these programs reflects their aim to prepare nurses for specialized roles in advanced clinical practice, healthcare administration, education, or research.

According to the 2022 National Nursing Workforce Survey (Smiley et al., 2023), 51.1% of RNs in the U.S. hold a BSN as their highest educational achievement. The chart below further details the highest level of nursing education. With schools and employers mandating nurses to be BSN graduates, the allure of easy nursing schools as an alternative path also rises.

How do the curricula and student experiences differ between the easiest vs. competitive nursing schools?

Generally, the curricula of the easiest nursing schools and the most competitive nursing schools are similar because they adhere to national and programmatic accreditation standards. However, there may be slight differences in program emphasis depending on the institution’s vision or mission. 

For instance, some schools focus on practical hands-on training, clinical experiences, or community development. Others offer opportunities in research, leadership development, and clinical specializations.

In some institutions, especially competitive nursing schools, learners can access state-of-the-art facilities or advanced simulation technologies. The faculty roster of competitive schools may also be more extensive, comprising experts in specialized fields. Lastly, due to their exclusivity, they may offer more avenues for professional development, networking, clinical placements, internships, or collaboration with healthcare professionals.

However, it’s important to note that ease of admission in less competitive nursing schools can still provide robust educational opportunities and impactful experiences. I highly suggest that prospective students conduct a deep dive into their desired nursing schools to identify each advantage and disadvantage.

How to prepare for nursing school prerequisites?

Nursing school prerequisites play a vital role in ensuring that students are well-prepared for the rigors of nursing education. Having a solid foundation in biology, anatomy, chemistry, and psychology can make your application more competitive and help you excel during the program. To streamline this process, many students seek out affordable and accessible options to complete their prerequisites, especially if they are looking to transition quickly into a nursing program.

Exploring the cheapest online nursing prerequisites can be a game-changer for those balancing work or other commitments. Online programs offer flexibility and cost savings while maintaining academic standards. Additionally, these courses are often self-paced, allowing students to complete them sooner, ultimately accelerating their path toward a nursing degree.

When selecting prerequisite programs, consider those accredited by recognized agencies and aligned with the nursing school requirements you aim to meet. It’s also wise to verify that credits from these programs can transfer seamlessly to your preferred nursing schools. Preparing strategically for prerequisites boosts your readiness and ensures you’re set up for success in pursuing your nursing career.

Are easier nursing schools accredited to ensure quality education and career success?

Accreditation is a key indicator of program quality and adherence to established educational standards. Prospective students should confirm that an easier nursing school holds recognized accreditation from bodies such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Accredited programs enable eligibility for licensure, support seamless credit transfers, and uphold standards that translate into better employment opportunities. This reliable benchmark also translates into enhanced preparation for specialized roles, including opportunities offered through cheapest online PMHNP programs.

Are accredited online nursing programs a credible alternative?

Accredited online options provide a flexible pathway for students balancing professional and personal commitments without compromising academic rigor. These programs leverage virtual simulation tools, interactive modules, and timely faculty feedback to mirror the practical learning found in traditional settings. Prospective students should verify program credentials, consider the integration of clinical placements with local healthcare facilities, and evaluate student support services when comparing online courses. For a comprehensive list of quality distance learning options, refer to accredited online nursing programs.

What bridge programs can support your progression to advanced nursing roles?

Bridge programs provide a structured pathway for nurses to advance academically and professionally by building on prior credentials. These programs often enable students with an Associate Degree in Nursing or a related diploma to transition smoothly to higher-level degrees without starting from scratch. They combine coursework that reinforces foundational concepts with advanced subjects, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for specialized roles or leadership positions. For instance, some bridge programs are designed specifically to transform an ADN into an MSN, offering a direct route toward roles such as nurse practitioner. Discover more details on how to leverage these programs via an associate degree to nurse practitioner pathway.

What financial aid options can help manage costs at easier nursing schools?

Several financial aid avenues can ease the financial burden of pursuing a nursing degree at schools with higher acceptance rates. Evaluate federal assistance programs like Pell Grants and subsidized student loans alongside institution-specific scholarships and work-study opportunities. Institutions may also offer merit-based awards and need-specific aid tailored for nursing applicants. Furthermore, exclusive funding initiatives sometimes arise through institutional partnerships or community programs. Explore additional opportunities through HBCU accelerated nursing programs to uncover specialized financial support mechanisms.

How to choose the easiest nursing school?

Choosing among the easiest nursing schools requires careful consideration of several key factors. These elements guarantee adherence to academic, professional, and industry benchmarks and distinguish them from one another. Looking into these criteria can help you choose the best school that meets your needs and goals. Here’s what you need to keep an eye on:

• Accreditation: Verify if the nursing program is accredited by the CCNE or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). This ensures that the institution meets rigorous standards for nursing education quality.
• NCLEX Pass and Graduation Rates: Look for statistics on the program’s graduation rates, as well as its performance in the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX)-RN. These metrics speak volumes about the program’s ability to successfully educate and prepare students for licensure and professional practice.
• Curriculum Structure: Review the curriculum to confirm the balance between theoretical coursework and clinical practice. Likewise, browse the list of electives or minors offered to check if there’s a pathway for specialization.
• Faculty: Assess the qualifications and accessibility of faculty members, ensuring they have substantial experience as nurses, a record of research contributions, or equivalent credentials.
• Student Resources and Services: Explore the resources accessible to students, such as library facilities, study areas, and technological support. Additionally, examine the availability of advanced technology and equipment and the range of academic, extracurricular, career, and health services provided to students.
• Cost and Financial Aid: Compare tuition costs, fees, and other expenses associated with attending the school. Explore financial aid options, scholarships, and grants available to help finance your education.

What career paths are available for graduates of the easiest nursing schools?

Graduating from the easiest nursing schools opens up various career paths within the healthcare sector. These paths offer opportunities for entry-level positions, as well as avenues for specialization and career advancement. Understanding the diverse career options can help you make informed decisions about your goals. The following are some of these pathways, and the chart below differentiates their average annual wages.

• Registered Nurses (RNs): Right off the bat, BSN-educated graduates who successfully pass the NCLEX become RNs who perform direct care to patients and gain positions in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health settings.
• Long-Term Care Nurses: These professionals care for patients in nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and assisted living facilities.
• Nurse Midwives and Neonatal Nurses: They specialize in direct care to expectant mothers and newborns, ensuring safe deliveries and postpartum support.
• Nurse Practitioners (NPs): These MSN-educated advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) diagnose, treat, and manage acute and chronic illnesses. They can specialize in various areas, including family care, pediatrics, psychiatry and mental health, and geriatrics. 
• Nurse Educators: These nurses are PhD graduates who teach and mentor future nurses, preparing them for clinical practice through education and training programs.
• Healthcare Administrators: They manage healthcare facilities and oversee operations, finances, and staff to ensure efficient and effective delivery of patient care. This comes with a high DNP, PhD in Nursing, or doctor of strategic leadership salary.

While nursing can be a fulfilling and worthwhile field, I understand that its unique challenges and discipline demands are not for everybody. Also, you may still be exploring which path to commit your life to or looking for another graduate program already. If this is the case, you may consider the following budget program options instead:

• easiest doctoral degrees - a good complement to a nursing or healthcare degree if you already have one
• easy finance degree programs
• easy healthcare degree programs
• fastest RN degree programs

What is the job market for graduates with a nursing degree?

Graduates of both competitive and the easiest nursing schools face a generally favorable job market demand. Various reports from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show that RNs are projected to see a 6% increase in job opportunities from 2022 to 2032. NPs are expected to experience even higher demand, with a 45% growth rate throughout the decade.

Meanwhile, the top industries for RN employment include general medical and surgical hospitals, physicians’ offices, home health care services, outpatient care centers, and employment services (BLS, 2024). States such as Texas (37,740), California (35,000), New York (33,420), Florida (27,390), and Arizona (22,980) are particularly in need of nurses (Reed, 2024).

While these statistics present promising career prospects for future nurses, there are challenges to consider. For instance, knowing how much do DNPs make a year might dissuade some nurses, given the substantial income disparity and the time required to attain higher credentials. 

According to a survey by AMN Healthcare (2024), 75% of nurses prioritize better pay raises in their workplaces. High turnover rates are also a significant issue, with 18% of new nurses leaving their jobs within the first year (American Nurses Association, 2023). Therefore, aspiring nurses need to be prepared to navigate both the opportunities and challenges in the nursing profession.

Can you fast-track your nursing career with an easier nursing school?

For students aiming to start their nursing careers as quickly as possible, attending an easier nursing school can sometimes align with fast-tracking their education. These schools often have flexible admission requirements, rolling application deadlines, and streamlined curricula that allow students to enter the workforce sooner. Many also provide accelerated pathways for career advancement.

For example, certain nursing programs allow students to complete prerequisites alongside core nursing courses, saving time compared to traditional program structures. Some even offer fast-track options for advancing into specialized roles, like becoming a nurse practitioner. If you're interested in this pathway, explore opportunities such as the shortest time to become a nurse practitioner to better understand how to expedite your professional growth.

By choosing a program that combines ease of entry with an accelerated timeline, aspiring nurses can achieve their career goals more quickly, all while ensuring they meet the qualifications for high-demand roles in healthcare.

Are affordable online FNP programs a viable option for advancing your nursing career?

Affordable online Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) programs can serve as a strategic pathway for nurses seeking to expand their roles in primary care and community health. These programs focus on advanced clinical training, offering flexibility for working professionals aiming to integrate academic rigor with hands-on practice. By leveraging digital learning platforms, these courses provide a blend of theoretical knowledge, evidence-based practice, and supervised clinical placements, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of modern healthcare environments. For more information on cost-effective pathways that deliver high-quality education, refer to cheap FNP programs online.

The Easiest RN to BSN Programs for Working Nurses

For registered nurses seeking a straightforward path to advancing their education, the easiest RN to BSN programs offer accessible and flexible options. These programs typically have streamlined admission processes, with minimal prerequisites and generous transfer credit policies, making them ideal for working nurses. Designed with the demands of a nursing career in mind, the easiest RN to BSN programs often feature online coursework, allowing students to complete assignments at their convenience while balancing work and family responsibilities.

If you're considering the next step in your nursing career, exploring what is the easiest RN to BSN online program can guide you to programs that prioritize accessibility without sacrificing quality. With an RN to BSN degree, nurses gain broader knowledge in areas such as community health, evidence-based practice, and leadership, which can open doors to higher-paying roles and specialized positions in healthcare. 

Can easier nursing schools pave the way for advanced doctoral studies?

Graduates of easier nursing schools acquire fundamental clinical and theoretical skills that serve as a strong basis for pursuing advanced nursing education. These programs build foundational competencies that ease the transition into accelerated graduate tracks and help prepare candidates for the challenges of doctoral-level study. Such groundwork allows nurses to subsequently consider options like the fastest DNP programs, which are designed for professionals seeking leadership roles and specialized practice in modern healthcare settings.

Other Things You Should Know About the Easiest Nursing Schools

What is the lowest GPA to get into nursing school?

The lowest GPA required for admission to nursing school can vary widely depending on the institution and competition for spots. Generally, some schools may accept students with GPAs around 2.5 to 2.8, especially if other factors like healthcare experience or strong letters of recommendation are present. More competitive nursing schools may require applicants to have at least a GPA of 3.0.

What is the easiest path to nursing school?

The easiest path to nursing school depends on your career or academic goals. If you wish to have nursing experience but are not ready for a high degree, you can consider enrolling in CNA or LPN/LVN programs. Alternatively, an ADN program can help you become an RN within two to three years. However, keep in mind that many employers prefer graduates with a BSN.

What can I expect from studying in the easiest nursing schools?

Studying in the easiest nursing schools typically offers a less competitive admission process and may focus more on accommodating a broader range of academic backgrounds. While the curriculum may be rigorous, these schools often provide strong support systems, accessible faculty, and ample clinical opportunities. Students can expect a balanced blend of theoretical learning and practical experience in diverse healthcare settings.

Why consider a nursing school with high acceptance rates?

Nursing schools with high acceptance rates offer several advantages, including increased chances of admission for qualified applicants and a potentially more relaxed admission process. These schools often prioritize diversity in their student body and may provide a supportive learning environment conducive to academic success. Additionally, higher acceptance rates can mean fewer barriers to entry, allowing students to begin their nursing education sooner rather than waiting for highly competitive programs.

What is the easiest nursing degree to get?

The easiest nursing degree to obtain is typically an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). It usually takes about two years to complete and offers a more accessible pathway into the nursing profession compared to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). However, the ultimate ease can depend on individual circumstances, such as prior experience and the specific programs available.

What is the easiest field of nursing?

The easiest field of nursing often depends on individual strengths and preferences, but many consider clinical nursing roles, such as medical-surgical nursing, to be among the more straightforward entry points.

Medical-surgical nursing typically involves providing care for a broad range of patients and conditions, which can be less specialized than other fields. This area allows nurses to develop foundational skills in patient assessment, medication administration, and care management without the intense focus required in specialties like critical care or emergency nursing.

Additionally, home health nursing can be seen as easier by some, as it often allows for a more flexible schedule and one-on-one patient interactions, which can lead to less stressful environments compared to busy hospital settings.

What is the easiest class in nursing school?

The perception of the "easiest" class in nursing school can vary by student, but many often find Nutrition or Health Assessment to be relatively straightforward.

Nutrition focuses on dietary needs and principles, which may feel more approachable due to its practical applications in daily life.

Health Assessment involves learning to perform physical exams and gather patient histories, often viewed as more hands-on and less theoretical compared to subjects like pharmacology or pathophysiology.

Which state is the easiest to get into nursing school?

States with more community colleges and a higher number of nursing programs, like Texas and California, often have more accessible entry points due to their larger number of ADN and BSN programs.

Texas, in particular, has a range of community colleges that offer ADN programs, often with less competitive admissions processes. Florida also offers many nursing programs with varying admission criteria, making it another potentially accessible state.