Best Nursing Schools in Lincoln, NE 2025 – Accredited Nursing Degree Programs Online

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Different nursing schools in Lincoln, Nebraska offer many opportunities for aspiring nurses. Nebraska boasts nine pre-licensure Baccalaureate Degree RN nursing programs, making it a good hub for nursing education (Nebraska Center for Nursing, n.d.). In this state, students can find diverse programs suitable for their career objectives.

In Nebraska, where hospitals increasingly prefer nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Lincoln’s educational offerings for nurse majors align perfectly with the evolving demands of the healthcare sector. Whether you are an RN seeking to further your education or a newcomer with no prior nursing experience, schools in Lincoln can ensure that you excel in your chosen career path.

In this guide, our team at Research.com gathered data on the top Nebraska nursing schools, various program offerings, associated costs, and salary prospects.

Best Nursing Schools in Lincoln, NE Table of Contents

The State of Nursing in Lincoln, Nebraska
Why become a nurse in Lincoln?
Top-Ranked Entry-Level Nursing Programs in Lincoln
List of Bridge Programs for Nursing in Lincoln
Best Advanced Nursing Programs in Lincoln
Student Life and Support for Nursing Students in Lincoln
What factors should be considered when choosing a nursing school in Lincoln?
What distinguishes an RN program from a BSN program?
Pathways for Non-Traditional Nursing Students in Lincoln
Opportunities for Continuing Education and Professional Development
Can Accelerated Online DNP Programs Quickly Elevate Your Nursing Career?
What Are the Employment and Alumni Success Metrics for Lincoln Nursing Programs?
What Are the Admission Requirements for Nursing Programs in Lincoln?
How Can Bridge Programs Enhance the Transition to Advanced Practice Roles?
What Are the Benefits of Hybrid ABSN Programs in Nursing?

The State of Nursing in Lincoln, Nebraska

Nursing in Lincoln is a dynamic reflection of the ever-evolving healthcare landscape in the heart of the Cornhusker State. Lincoln, Nebraska is home to a range of prestigious nursing schools that offer different nursing programs, such as LPN programs online and on-campus.

However, despite the state’s effort to reinforce nursing education, Nebraska faces a significant nursing shortage of 4,062 nurses, and this deficit is projected to surge to 5,436 by 2025. This underscores the pressing need for dedicated nursing professionals to step up and meet the increasing demand for healthcare services.

One encouraging aspect is Nebraska’s remarkable performance in the NCLEX-RN examination, boasting an impressive pass rate of 89.89% in 2021. This significantly surpasses the national average of 82.48% (Nebraska Center for Nursing, 2021), which reflects the high quality of education provided by nursing schools in the state and the commitment of Nebraska’s nurses to their profession.

With a projected growth rate of 8% and an estimated 1,700 annual job openings in the nursing field between 2020 and 2030, Lincoln, Nebraska is set to continue preparing more students to enter the industry (O*NET OnLine, n.d.). This makes for a promising career path for those aspiring to join the ranks of compassionate and skilled healthcare professionals in the state.

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

National Pass Rate

87.12%

88.30%

88.18%

86.58%

82.48%

Nebraska Pass Rate

91.62%

92.39%

91.04%

90.07%

89.89%

Why become a nurse in Lincoln?

There are plenty of compelling reasons to pursue becoming a nurse in Lincoln. One key consideration is the financial aspect of this career. The total program costs, encompassing in-state or out-of-state tuition and fees, are notably reasonable in Nebraska, making it an economically sound choice for students. More so, aspiring nurses in the state can leverage scholarship options to further ease educational expenses.

In addition, there is a wealth of nursing schools in Lincoln, Nebraska, with regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and nursing programmatic accreditation from esteemed bodies like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). These accreditations ensure the quality and credibility of nursing programs.

Lastly, Nebraska’s average annual RN salary of $73,370 ensures financial stability and job satisfaction (O*NET OnLine, n.d.). This, combined with Nebraska’s membership in the Enhanced Nursing Licensure Compact (eNLC), facilitates easy license transfer to most other states, enhancing mobility for nurses seeking new opportunities.

All in all, Nebraska is an attractive destination for nursing education and practice, offering affordability with a cheap RN to BSN online and other similar programs, quality education, and abundant career prospects within and beyond its borders through the eNLC membership. It is a region where aspiring nurses can build a fulfilling and prosperous career while providing valuable healthcare services to the community.

What role do nursing organizations and associations play in Lincoln?

Nursing organizations and associations in Lincoln, Nebraska, provide essential support and resources for nursing professionals. These organizations offer a variety of benefits, including:

Networking Opportunities: Professional associations host events, workshops, and conferences, allowing nurses to connect with peers, mentors, and industry leaders, fostering professional relationships and collaborations.
Continuing Education: Many organizations provide access to continuing education courses, seminars, and certifications that help nurses stay current with the latest practices, technologies, and regulations in healthcare.
Advocacy and Representation: Nursing associations advocate for the interests of nurses at local, state, and national levels, influencing policies related to nursing practice, education, and workforce development.
Career Resources: These organizations often provide job boards, career fairs, and mentorship programs to assist nurses in advancing their careers and finding new employment opportunities.
Community Engagement: Many nursing associations are involved in community health initiatives, encouraging nurses to participate in volunteer activities and health promotion efforts that benefit the local population.
Research and Publications: Organizations frequently publish research, journals, and newsletters, keeping members informed about advancements in nursing and healthcare trends.

Top-Ranked Entry-Level Nursing Programs in Lincoln

To become an RN in Lincoln, Nebraska, students must first pick from the many entry-level nursing programs that are available in the city. Whether pursuing an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN), a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), or LPN programs in Nebraska, the perks of college education are abundant. As such, our team of researchers assessed top-ranked programs in Lincoln, examining crucial aspects such as accreditation, costs, and faculty expertise to guide prospective nurses in making informed educational choices.

1. Southeast Community College

Southeast Community College offers a Nursing Assistant degree program with a hybrid approach, combining online coursework with hands-on in-person laboratory sessions. Within this program, students will engage in clinical experiences within healthcare settings, providing valuable opportunities to apply their classroom-acquired skills to real-life scenarios. Moreover, this program holds approval from the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services Regulation and Licensure, effectively preparing students for the Nebraska Nurse Aide Registry examination.

Program Length: Eight to 16 weeks
Cost-per-Credit: $423.50 to $497
Required Credits to Graduate: 12
Accreditation: HLC

2. University of Nebraska Medical Center Lincoln

The University of Nebraska Medical Center Lincoln provides an Accelerated BSN degree program that caters to students with a bachelor’s degree in a different field. This program employs a cohort-based approach with synchronous lectures across campuses, admitting students only once annually for a January program commencement. This accelerated path emphasizes critical thinking, active learning, clinical application, independent assessment, patient-centered care, and achieving successful care outcomes, offering students a challenging and knowledge-intensive educational experience.

Program Length: 12 months
Program Cost: $45,000
Required Credits to Graduate: 60
Accreditation: CCNE

3. Bryan College of Health Sciences

Bryan College of Health Sciences has a BSN degree program with a unique learning experience marked by individualized attention, boasting a low clinical faculty-to-student ratio of 1:6. This program places a strong emphasis on hands-on learning, providing students with an extensive 1,200 clinical hours, the highest in the state, and training opportunities at Bryan Medical Center as well as 200 other clinical sites in the area. With a consistently high NCLEX pass rate track record, the program also features Skills Labs for honing nursing competencies and a state-of-the-art Simulation Center equipped with interactive simulators, fostering a safe environment for students to immerse themselves in comprehensive patient care experiences.

Program Length: Four years
Cost-per-Credit: $619
Required Credits to Graduate: 128
Accreditation: ACEN

4. Clarkson College

Clarkson College offers an online BSN degree program that blends a strong foundation in science and humanities with specialized nursing courses, equipping students with the skills needed to excel in diverse healthcare settings. This program stands out for its highly experienced faculty, early exposure to hands-on learning opportunities, and a well-structured curriculum that primes students to become compassionate nurses, a crucial asset in today’s healthcare landscape. Clarkson College’s BSN degree option is designed to meet the evolving healthcare field demands, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for their roles as caring and competent healthcare professionals.

Program Length: Eight semesters
Cost-per-Credit: $651
Required Credits to Graduate: 121
Accreditation: ACEN

5. Nebraska Wesleyan University

Nebraska Wesleyan University (NWU) offers a BSN degree program that uniquely combines comprehensive training in the health sciences with an enriched perspective of a high-quality liberal arts education. This NWU program equips nurses with critical thinking and problem-solving skills crucial for handling complex and critical cases, setting the stage for career advancement. The nursing faculty at NWU, comprising experienced professionals with diverse expertise ranging from obstetrics to hospice care, is dedicated to nurturing nursing leaders, managers, and educators which ensures students’ success in the field and beyond.

Program Length: Four years
Program Cost: $58,288
Required Credits to Graduate: 129
Accreditation: CCNE

List of Bridge Programs for Nursing in Lincoln

For those who aim to advance their nursing careers through accredited nursing schools in Lincoln, this compilation of bridge programs, assessed by our team based on the previously mentioned criteria, can fast-track nursing aspirations.

1. Southeast Community College

Southeast Community College offers an online LPN to RN program that provides students with a comprehensive nursing education, preparing them for diverse aspects of nursing practice, including care planning and communication. Graduates of the program are equipped to contribute to the holistic well-being of individuals across various dimensions while prioritizing ethical standards and personal and professional growth through evidence-based practice. Furthermore, this program ensures a well-rounded nursing education that addresses patients’ physical, psychological, spiritual, and social needs.

Program Length: Two semesters
Program Cost: $5,271.70
Required Credits to Graduate: 38
Accreditation: ACEN

2. Union College

Union College offers an LPN to BSN degree program focusing on personalized education, boasting an impressive NCLEX-RN first-time pass rate of 100% in 2020. This exceeded both the state and national averages during that year. Union’s Nursing Simulation Center provides students with a hospital-like environment for hands-on practice, including patient interactions with volunteers and advanced patient simulators. Moreover, Union’s commitment to community service is evident through monthly foot clinics at Matt Talbot Kitchen and Community Outreach, catering to Lincoln’s homeless population, and annual medical clinics in underserved areas of developing nations, where nursing students provide essential care to communities with limited access to modern healthcare.

Program Length: Five semesters
Per Semester Cost: $17,995
Required Credits to Graduate: 72
Accreditation: CCNE

3. Doane University

Doane University presents an online RN to BSN degree program tailored for RNs holding an associate’s degree or nursing diploma. The program serves as a gateway to graduate-level education and advanced practice nursing roles, offering a curriculum designed to accommodate adult learners and capitalize on the practical strengths of working RNs. More so, the program is delivered by instructors who share expertise in liberal arts, clinical patient care, healthcare management, and professional nursing practice and leadership, fostering the integration of nursing theory and practice.

Program Length: Two years
Program Cost: $37,554
Required Credits to Graduate: 120
Accreditation: CCNE

4. Nebraska Wesleyan University

Nebraska Wesleyan University provides a flexible online BSN to MSN degree program tailored for working adults. The program boasts highly qualified faculty who prioritize personalized attention to students throughout their MSN journey. Moreover, this program offers two distinct course tracks — Nurse Educator and Nurse Leader. This program aims to cultivate nursing professionals into leaders in various capacities, such as nurse educators, administrators, and entrepreneurs.

Program Length: 18 months to three years
Program Cost: $52,000
Required Credits to Graduate: 40
Accreditation: CCNE

5. University of Nebraska Medical Center Lincoln

At the University of Nebraska Medical Center Lincoln, a BSN to DNP degree program is available for nurses seeking the highest levels of leadership and practice in the field. This program, offered by UNMC College of Nursing, equips graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in nursing leadership roles within healthcare organizations. Furthermore, this DNP program is particularly suitable for Advanced Practice Nurses, including nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, clinical nurse specialists, nurse administrators, and nurse midwives, who aim to pursue a terminal doctoral degree in nursing practice and enhance their career prospects in areas such as advanced clinical expertise, patient safety, quality improvement, and health systems change.

Program Length: Three to four years
Cost-per-Credit: $629 to $1136
Required Credits to Graduate: 75
Accreditation: CCNE

Best Advanced Nursing Programs in Lincoln

Nurses aspiring to advance their careers can explore various options offered by nursing schools in Lincoln, Nebraska, including MSN degrees, post-graduate certificates, and doctoral nursing programs, each tailored to individual career goals. These diverse pathways provide RNs with accessible traditional and online nursing degrees to suit their career objectives.

1. Bryan College of Health Sciences

Bryan College of Health Sciences offers a convenient online MSN degree program, ensuring a manageable course load that promotes a healthy work-life balance. The program incorporates four video meetings per semester to facilitate real-time interaction with faculty and fellow students, enhancing the learning experience. More so, Bryan College’s MSN program includes a valuable preceptor program for hands-on, real-life learning. Furthermore, this college stands out for its affordability, boasting one of the lowest tuitions among nursing schools in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Program Length: Two years
Cost-per-Credit: $545
Required Credits to Graduate: 36
Accreditation: ACEN

2. University of Nebraska Medical Center Lincoln

The University of Nebraska Medical Center Lincoln has an MSN degree program that prepares nurses, such as nurse practitioners and administrators, for advanced practice roles. The College of Nursing’s dedication to cultivating advanced practice nurse leaders is underscored by a commitment to excellence in practice and scholarship, focusing on promoting health and well-being, including addressing health disparities. Moreover, choosing this MSN degree among the offerings at nursing schools in Lincoln, Nebraska enhances student expertise and skills and provides new credentials to propel one’s nursing career forward.

Program Length: One to three years
Cost-per-Credit: $629 to $1136
Required Credits to Graduate: 36
Accreditation: ACEN

3. Purdue University Global Lincoln

Purdue University Global Lincoln offers an online MSN degree program that focuses on delivering holistic healthcare to adults and children. The program enhances theoretical knowledge by providing opportunities for onsite clinical practice, allowing students to apply their learning in real-world scenarios. More so, the flexibility of this program allows students to pursue their studies at their convenience and complete most of their coursework online, providing a convenient option among nursing schools in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Program Length: One and a half years
Cost-per-Credit: $420
Required Credits to Graduate: 60
Accreditation: CCNE

4. Nebraska Wesleyan University

Nebraska Wesleyan University offers an online Post Master’s Certificate in Nursing designed to equip nurses and nurse practitioners holding an MSN degree with the skills and expertise needed to pursue careers as Nurse Educators or Nurse Leaders. This program expands career opportunities, enabling graduates to engage in research, public health, advanced nursing administration, and nursing education. With a strong emphasis on integrating clinical skills and teaching, nurse educators can contribute to the development of future nurses at community colleges and universities, guided by the expertise and personal attention provided by the program’s highly qualified faculty.

Program Length: Eight weeks
Program Cost: $6514
Required Credits to Graduate: 13
Accreditation: CCNE

5. Clarkson College

Clarkson College provides an online DNP degree program that further develops the advanced practice role for licensed nurse practitioners. This program focuses on strengthening patient care expertise and honing leadership and communication skills to enable graduates to lead interprofessional healthcare teams effectively. The DNP curriculum offers flexibility with convenient online study options. Furthermore, this program accommodates both full- and part-time enrollment, culminating in a DNP scholarly project demonstrating the ability to apply scientific research to evidence-based, patient-centered healthcare practice.

Program Length: Four to 10 semesters
Cost-per-Credit: $941
Required Credits to Graduate: 67
Accreditation: ACEN

Student Life and Support for Nursing Students in Lincoln

Nursing students in Lincoln, Nebraska, have access to a supportive and enriching educational environment that fosters personal and professional growth. Whether studying at public institutions like the University of Nebraska Medical Center or other reputable nursing schools, students can benefit from various support systems to help them succeed.

Academic Counseling and Advising: Nursing programs in Lincoln offer dedicated academic counseling services to guide students through their coursework, help them plan their academic paths, and provide advice on career goals. This ensures that students stay on track and achieve their educational objectives. Advisors often recommend exploring the shortest online MSN programs for a flexible option that allows working professionals to advance their degrees without disrupting their careers.
Career Services: Career services are an integral part of nursing education in Lincoln. They assist students with job placement, resume building, and interview preparation. These services are essential for connecting students to potential employers and ensuring they are well-prepared for their job search post-graduation.
Mentorship Programs: Many nursing schools in Lincoln provide mentorship programs where students are paired with experienced nurses or faculty members. This guidance helps them navigate the complexities of clinical practice, understand best practices in patient care, and develop a professional network that can aid them throughout their careers.
Student Organizations and Peer Support: Lincoln offers a variety of student organizations and peer support groups tailored to nursing students. These groups host events, workshops, and social gatherings that foster camaraderie and collaboration. They can also be a source of emotional support and motivation, helping students manage the demands of their rigorous studies.
Access to Resources and Facilities: Nursing students benefit from modern resources and state-of-the-art facilities, such as simulation labs with high-fidelity mannequins and clinical equipment. These labs allow students to practice and refine their clinical skills in a safe, controlled environment, building the confidence they need for real-world patient care.

What factors should be considered when choosing a nursing school in Lincoln?

When evaluating nursing schools in Lincoln, prospective students should closely examine the following key factors:

• Accreditation and Certification – Ensure the institution and its nursing programs are accredited by recognized agencies to guarantee quality education and licensure eligibility.

• Curriculum and Clinical Training – Analyze the balance between theoretical coursework and practical, hands-on clinical experiences, including partnerships with local healthcare facilities for real-world practice.

• Faculty Expertise and Support Services – Consider the qualifications and professional backgrounds of nursing instructors, as well as the availability of academic advising, mentoring, and career placement services.

• Program Flexibility and Specializations – Look for programs offering various learning formats, such as in-person, hybrid, and online options; for instance, some schools provide opportunities through rn to msn online programs that cater to working professionals seeking advanced credentials.

• Cost and Financial Aid Options – Evaluate tuition fees in relation to the career benefits offered, and explore available scholarships, grants, and other financial assistance programs.

Thorough consideration of these criteria in the context of your personal and professional goals can guide you toward a nursing program that aligns with both your educational and long-term career objectives.

What distinguishes an RN program from a BSN program?

RN programs focus primarily on developing essential clinical competencies required for immediate licensure and patient care, whereas BSN programs expand the curriculum to include leadership, research, community health, and evidence-based practice. This broader academic approach can enhance career trajectory by preparing graduates for advanced roles, management, and specialized fields within nursing. For an in-depth comparison, please review RN vs BSN.

Pathways for Non-Traditional Nursing Students in Lincoln

Aspiring nurses who come from non-traditional backgrounds or are seeking flexible options to advance their careers can find several pathways tailored specifically to their needs in Lincoln, Nebraska. Many nursing schools in the area offer programs designed to accommodate working professionals, career switchers, and those balancing family obligations.

One notable avenue to explore is the availability of hybrid and fully online programs, which blend the convenience of remote education with essential in-person clinical training. For instance, programs like LPN to RN or RN to BSN bridge options cater to licensed nurses wanting to expand their credentials while continuing their current roles. Similarly, those targeting advanced practice roles can benefit from online MSN or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) opportunities, such as the offerings at Bryan College of Health Sciences and Clarkson College.

Additionally, students looking for accelerated and less rigorous pathways into the field can explore the easiest nurse practitioner program, which is particularly helpful for individuals aiming to quickly transition into specialized roles while maintaining quality education. This flexibility ensures that non-traditional learners in Lincoln are supported in their endeavors to thrive in the nursing profession.

Whether adjusting to a new career path or enhancing existing qualifications, Lincoln's nursing schools accommodate a diverse student population, ensuring equitable access to education and promoting continuous professional growth.

Opportunities for Continuing Education and Professional Development

Pursuing a nursing career in Lincoln, Nebraska, offers not only a strong educational foundation but also numerous continuing education and professional development opportunities for nurses at all career stages. Local and regional nursing associations and organizations provide certifications, workshops, and conferences to keep professionals updated with the latest advancements in healthcare.

For nurses looking to specialize further or transition into advanced practice roles, Lincoln offers access to several affordable online programs. One such resource is the range of cheapest online PMHNP programs, which allow registered nurses to specialize in psychiatric-mental health, a growing field of need within the healthcare industry. Besides specialization, these programs offer flexibility, enabling professionals to study while managing work and personal commitments.

Many nursing schools in Lincoln also partner with healthcare institutions to facilitate internships and mentorship programs, which are pivotal for bridging the gap between academic learning and clinical application. Additionally, institutions like Bryan College of Health Sciences and the University of Nebraska Medical Center often encourage their graduates to engage in lifelong learning through post-graduate certificates, professional training courses, and leadership workshops.

By taking advantage of these professional development options, nurses in Lincoln can not only enhance their clinical expertise but also position themselves for leadership roles, ensuring long-term career growth and contribution to Nebraska's healthcare system.

Can Accelerated Online DNP Programs Quickly Elevate Your Nursing Career?

Accelerated online DNP programs offer an efficient pathway for experienced nurses aiming to transition into advanced clinical and leadership roles. These programs integrate rigorous academic coursework with clinical experiences designed to meet current healthcare demands, reducing the time required to complete a terminal degree without compromising quality. By leveraging innovative virtual platforms, participants receive flexible learning options while engaging with current research, evidence-based practices, and expert mentorship. Comparing options such as the fastest doctor of nursing practice programs can enable prospective DNP candidates to select programs that best match their career objectives and schedule requirements.

What Are the Employment and Alumni Success Metrics for Lincoln Nursing Programs?

Leading nursing schools in Lincoln complement rigorous academic training with robust career services, alumni networks, and clinical partnerships that drive strong employment outcomes. Graduates benefit from tailored mentorship programs, direct links with local healthcare facilities, and comprehensive career counseling, all of which help streamline the transition into specialized roles. Institutions consistently leverage these strengths to achieve high job placement rates and prepare nurses for advanced practice positions. For targeted career advancement, exploring options such as the most affordable family nurse practitioner programs online can further enhance prospects in leadership and specialized care.

What Are the Admission Requirements for Nursing Programs in Lincoln?

Admission criteria across Lincoln’s nursing programs differ based on the institution and program format. Applicants typically submit verified academic transcripts and may need to complete prerequisite coursework in science and mathematics, along with meeting minimum GPA benchmarks. Additional requirements can include letters of recommendation, personal statements, and in some cases, standardized test scores or entrance examinations. Prospective candidates should verify current requirements directly with each institution to ensure compliance with the most updated procedures. For those interested in alternative or accessible entry pathways, consider schools with easy BSN programs to identify options that match your academic background and career objectives.

Enhance Career Prospects as a Nurse in Lincoln

Nursing schools in Lincoln, Nebraska have emerged as dynamic institutions catering to the diverse healthcare needs of the community. These institutions offer various nursing degree programs, such as masters degree in nursing online, to meet specialization requirements. From traditional education to the convenience of online nursing programs in Nebraska, aspiring nurses now have many flexible options to pursue their nursing degrees, irrespective of their life circumstances or schedules.

With promising job prospects, competitive pay, and Nebraska’s participation in the Enhanced Nursing Licensure Compact (eNLC), which simplifies license transfer to most other states, nurses in Lincoln find themselves in a favorable position for career growth and mobility. This combination of educational flexibility, rewarding compensation, and enhanced career prospects makes Lincoln, Nebraska, a prime destination for individuals aspiring to build a fulfilling and prosperous career in the nursing field.

How Can Bridge Programs Enhance the Transition to Advanced Practice Roles?

Bridge programs are structured to accelerate the progression from entry-level credentials to advanced practice roles by integrating rigorous academic coursework with practical clinical experiences. These programs emphasize competency-based learning while accommodating the schedules of working professionals. They provide a streamlined pathway for nurses to build upon their existing knowledge and quickly transition into roles requiring higher expertise, such as those offered by a nurse practitioner degree online. Through focused mentorship initiatives and targeted skill development modules, bridge programs equip nurses with the leadership, clinical proficiency, and evidence-based decision-making skills essential for enhanced patient care and career advancement.

What Are the Benefits of Hybrid ABSN Programs in Nursing?

Hybrid accelerated programs in nursing merge the convenience of online coursework with targeted, hands-on clinical experiences. This integrated approach enables working professionals to maintain a balanced schedule while progressing rapidly toward earning a BSN. By adopting innovative teaching methodologies and adaptive learning environments, hybrid ABSN programs emphasize critical thinking, evidence-based practice, and patient-centered care. This model not only accelerates academic progression but also aligns training with evolving industry standards, helping nurses transition more seamlessly into advanced practice roles.

Key Insights

High NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: Nebraska boasts an impressive NCLEX-RN pass rate of 89.89% in 2021, significantly higher than the national average of 82.48%. This indicates the high quality of nursing education provided by the state's institutions.
Nursing Shortage: Nebraska faces a significant nursing shortage, with a current deficit of 4,062 nurses projected to increase to 5,436 by 2025. This shortage underscores the growing demand for nursing professionals in the state.
Affordable Education: The cost of nursing programs in Lincoln, Nebraska, is relatively affordable, with various financial aid options available, including scholarships. Public schools' tuition ranges from $423.50 to $497 per credit.
Diverse Program Offerings: Lincoln offers a range of nursing programs, including ADN, BSN, LPN to RN, LPN to BSN, and RN to BSN programs. These cater to both new students and working professionals looking to advance their careers.
High Employment Growth: The nursing field in Nebraska is expected to grow by 8% between 2020 and 2030, with approximately 1,700 annual job openings, providing ample opportunities for new graduates.
Enhanced Nursing Licensure Compact (eNLC): Nebraska's participation in the eNLC allows for easier license transfer to other states, enhancing mobility for nurses seeking new opportunities.
Competitive Salaries: The average annual salary for RNs in Nebraska is $73,370, providing financial stability and job satisfaction for nursing professionals.

FAQ

What is the NCLEX-RN pass rate for nursing schools in Nebraska?

The NCLEX-RN pass rate for nursing schools in Nebraska was 89.89% in 2021, significantly higher than the national average of 82.48%.

Is there a nursing shortage in Nebraska?

Yes, Nebraska is facing a significant nursing shortage, with a current deficit of 4,062 nurses projected to increase to 5,436 by 2025.

How affordable are nursing programs in Lincoln, Nebraska?

Nursing programs in Lincoln are relatively affordable. Tuition for public schools ranges from $423.50 to $497 per credit, with various financial aid options available to students.

What types of nursing programs are available in Lincoln?

Lincoln offers a variety of nursing programs, including ADN, BSN, LPN to RN, LPN to BSN, and RN to BSN programs, catering to both new students and working professionals.

What is the job outlook for nurses in Nebraska?

The nursing field in Nebraska is expected to grow by 8% between 2020 and 2030, with approximately 1,700 annual job openings, providing ample opportunities for new graduates.

What is the average salary for registered nurses in Nebraska?

The average annual salary for registered nurses in Nebraska is $73,370, which offers financial stability and job satisfaction for nursing professionals.

What is the Enhanced Nursing Licensure Compact (eNLC), and how does it benefit nurses in Nebraska?

The eNLC allows nurses to have one multistate license, enabling them to practice in other participating states without needing additional licenses. This enhances mobility for nurses seeking new opportunities.

What financial aid options are available for nursing students in Lincoln?

Financial aid options for nursing students in Lincoln include scholarships, grants, and federal financial aid programs to help cover the cost of education.

Are there online nursing programs available in Lincoln, Nebraska?

Yes, several institutions in Lincoln offer online nursing programs, providing flexibility for working professionals and those with busy schedules.

What is the duration of nursing programs in Lincoln?

The duration of nursing programs in Lincoln varies. ADN programs typically take 2-3 years, BSN programs take 4 years, and bridge programs like LPN to RN or RN to BSN can range from 1-2 years. Advanced degrees like MSN and DNP programs can take 2-4 years, depending on the specific program and student’s pace.

What simulation and hands-on training facilities are available at Lincoln nursing schools?

Lincoln nursing schools provide state-of-the-art simulation and hands-on training facilities to enhance student learning. These facilities often include high-fidelity simulation labs where students can practice clinical skills in a controlled environment, mimicking real-life scenarios such as emergency care, surgical procedures, and patient interactions. Schools like the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Nursing in Lincoln offer advanced simulation centers with mannequins and equipment that allow students to refine their techniques before entering clinical settings. These training opportunities are crucial for building confidence and competence, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to handle the complexities of patient care in real-world healthcare environments.

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