Rankings: The 10 Best Nursing Schools In Oklahoma
Oklahoma has three primary nursing roles. In order of increasing responsibility and pay, these roles are certified nursing assistant , licensed practical nurse , and registered nurse . Each nursing role carries distinct educational requirements.
Certified nursing assistants must complete a brief certificate program. This CNA certificate can be earned in eight to ten weeks at a number of community colleges and technology centers throughout Oklahoma. The states CNAs earn a median annual salary of $21,490.
Are You Ready To Discover Your College Program
Missouri has one of the highest per capita rates of nurses in the country with more than 70,000 employed in the profession, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. And with job growth well over the national average for advance practice nursing, opportunities for both RNs and APRNs in the state are high. Additionally, due to nursing shortages across the country, job opportunities are expected to continue growing. To help address the need for more qualified professionals, colleges and universities across the state are expanding their nursing program options. Here you’ll find information to explore nursing schools in Missouri as well as important details regarding state licensure.
Rankings: The 15 Best Nursing Schools In Kansas
With more Kansas residents able to afford health insurance, the healthcare field is expanding at a rapid pace. This growth provides opportunities for aspiring nurses to launch a new career. Some of the most popular careers in the nursing field are outlined below, along with important data on local salaries and the required level of education.
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Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Students who pursue the Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner area of study will deliver evidence based advanced primary mental health care to individuals of all ages including children, adolescents and their families in a variety of healthcare settings. PMHNPs engage in independent and interdependent decision making, manage psychotropic medications, and deliver psychotherapeutic and psychoeducational interventions.
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Becoming A Nurse In Missouri
If youre considering a career in nursing, there are a number of colleges and universities in Missouri that offer undergraduate and graduate nursing degree programs.
When earning an online nursing degree and Missouri nursing license, you will also be licensed to practice in over 40 different jurisdictions outside of Missouri. This is because of Missouri’s status as a member state of the nurse licensure compact . In addition, you will not have to obtain a separate license to practice in other NLC member states. Licenses simply must be renewed every two years.
When earning an online nursing degree and Missouri nursing license, you will also be licensed to practice in over 40 different jurisdictions outside of Missouri. This is because of Missouri’s status as a member state of the nurse licensure compact
In Missouri, the nursing sectoris overseen by the Missouri State Board of Nursing. Aspiring nurses can earn one of three licenses from the board: registered nurse , licensed practical nurse , or advanced practice registered nurse . Additionally, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services manages the certification for certified nurse assistants . Each career path requires the successful completion of a different nursing program.
The prevalence of nursing programs in Missouri is no surprise, as the demand for licensed nursing is high. The state reports that just 3.7% of RNs and 2.2% of APRNs were unemployed in 2021.
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Best Rn Programs In Missouri
Selecting the best nursing school in Missouri can be difficult. To make the process easier first look for a school that supports students towards licensure and beyond. A great way to measure this is through NCLEX-RN “pass rates.” We have ranked the top 20 nursing schools in Missouri by analyzing current and historical NCLEX-RN “pass rates”, meaning the percentage of graduates who pass the exam, out of the 53 RN programs in the state. Programs reviewed include schools that offer an Associate in Nursing , BSN, or Direct-Entry MSN Degree.
For more information on our top nursing school rankings, see our Methodology Page .
- Phone: 334-6825
University Of Missouri Columbia
The traditional BSN degree is the most popular nursing degree at the Sinclair School of Nursing at the University of Missouri at Columbia. This conventional degree program will prepare nursing students to take the state nursing licensing exam and enter the working world. However, the school offers a lot of other nursing degrees as well. Programs include BSN, ABSN, RN-BSN Online, MSN Online, MS Care Management Online, PhD Nursing Online, DNP Online. In addition, the school has a robust online education program.
The University of Missouri was founded in 1839 and was the first land grant research university in Missouri. The University of Missouri runs the state healthcare organization and runs several hospitals in the area. Missouri has 30,000 students and many more in its online programs. The famed Columbia School of Journalism was the first journalism school in the world.
Programs: BSN, ABSN, RN-BSN Online, MSN Online, MS Care Management Online, PhD Nursing Online, DNP Online
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Are There Free Nursing Schools In Columbia
The education necessary to become an RN is valuable, and registered nurses make really good money in Missouri. However, students can lower the cost of RN school with financial aid. There are numerous grants and nursing school scholarships in Missouri. They might not make your RN degree free but it can at least be more affordable.
Contact one of the accredited nursing schools listed here to get information about the financial aid you qualify for. Find out more about online nursing schools in Missouri.
Rn Salaries In Missouri
There are approximately 64,870 registered nurses currently working in Missouri. The mean salary is around $58,040. Nurses who earn their BSN degree will be able to expand the nursing services in the state are often preferred by community based employers. Nurses who take advantage of a higher education will find new and satisfying job opportunities as a result. Areas of certification and specialty nursing may provide advancement such as:
- Oncology nursing
- Clinical nurse leaders
Nurses are encouraged to take advantage of nursing programs in Missouri in order to allow them to expand their practice and finding personal and professional satisfaction.
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How Much Do Nurses Make In Missouri
While the job outlook is good, nursing salaries in Missouri lag behind the national average. In addition, in nearly all nursing jobs, Missouri nurse salary is lower than the national average, sometimes significantly. Even so, Missouri nursing salaries may be worth more as the cost of living is lower than the national average.
Registered nurses are the most common type of nurse. Their average nurse salary in Missouri is $64160, compared to the national average of $77,000. However, nursing salaries in Missouri vary a lot. Bigger cities like St. Louis will pay more than small towns pay, but the cost of living is different.
Nursing salaries in Missouri start at about $26,000 for a nurse assistant. The national average is $30,000. LPNs average $43,000 in Missouri, and $48,500 nationally. Above the high school level, teachers make $73,000 in Missouri and $83,000 across the nation. RNs with specialties will make more, and travel nurses will make slightly higher wages. This is because travel nurses go where they are needed around the state.
Beyond the RN level, there are some higher-paying jobs. A nurse practitioners salary in Missouri averages $105,000, and the national average is $111,000. The average nurse practitioner salary in Missouri varies widely around the state. As in other areas, larger cities pay more. Even so, there may be a greater need in rural areas.
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Bsn Program Length In Missouri
A standard, pre-licensure BSN takes 4 years from start to finish. For current registered nurses, the RN to BSN program that many colleges are now offering will take less time roughly 1-2 years. Accelerated BSN programs also tend to take less time to complete, they average at about 15 months in length. Because there are so many different BSN options, it’s a good idea to check with your college of choice to see how long their programs will take.
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Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care
Students who pursue the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner area of study will be prepared as primary pediatric nurse clinicians providing comprehensive healthcare from birth through young adulthood by assessment, diagnosis, management, and evaluation of care. Special emphasis is placed on the knowledge, skills, and expertise to emphasize health promotion, injury and disease prevention, and management in coping with chronic illness among children.
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The Mu Health Care More
We understand nurses are looking for more more respect, more opportunity, more work-life balance. Thats why at MU Health Care, we don’t just offer nursing jobs. We offer nursing careers, full of growth, opportunity and support.
- Growth. Whether youre looking to gain more knowledge with continuing education courses or explore diversity in one of our employee resource groups, we offer a variety of ways for nurses to grow in their professional and personal development.
- Opportunity. Not only do our nurses have the opportunity to gain experience at a Level 1 Trauma, Level 1 STEMI and Comprehensive Stroke Center, but we also offer a variety of service lines and settings for nurses to explore and expand their careers.
- Support. From daily team huddles and one-on-one check-ins with supervisors to wellness incentives and meditation rooms, we want to ensure our nurses are supported in their careers and well-being.
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Advantages Of Adn Programs
If you are looking for a program that will allow you to start your career as an RN quickly, the ADN is an excellent choice. The 2-year length makes it especially appealing to many students, and you always have the option to “build on” your nursing education in the future by pursuing a BSN or MSN on top of your ADN. This program is also popular for budget-conscious individuals looking for a more affordable nursing program that’s widely accessible throughout the state.
How To Get Cna Certification In Missouri
In order to receive a Missouri CNA certificate and register in the Missouri Nurse Aide Registry, prospective nursing aides must complete a state-approved course. This includes 75 hours of classroom training, 100 hours of on-site training, and passing a two-part final exam. The certification exam includes both written and practical components. Nursing aide students should expect to study a wide range of topics, such as basic nursing skills, fire safety, disaster training, and resident safety and rights.
Once these requirements have been completed, program graduates can earn their Missouri Registry Active CNA Status and become eligible to work in long-term care facilities.
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College Of The Ozarks
The Armstrong McDonald School of Nursing at the College of the Ozarks is also one of the best nursing programs in Missouri. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the school is not very old. It was started in 2007 and graduated its first class in 2010. The BSN is the only nursing program offered, and it is taught on a six-semester system. Students must be accepted to the college and complete one year before applying to the school of nursing. While it offers just one program, there are several specialties taught. In addition, clinical nursing programs can be completed in many places.
College of the Ozarks is a liberal arts Christian college founded in 1906. The Christian school puts a lot of emphasis on the spiritual life. It has had its current name and has been a four-year school since 1990. College of the Ozarks is located near the resort town of Branson.
Programs: BSN
Associates In Nursing Programs
Columbia College The Associate in Science in Nursing degree at Columbia College accepts students who have prior nursing experience as well as those who are new to the field of nursing. Students can complete the program at either the main campus in Columbia or on the Lake of the Ozarks campus in Osage Beach. All applicants must undergo a competitive admissions test as space in the program is limited. The specialized nursing curriculum is sequenced and includes such courses as Medical/Surgical Nursing, Mental Health Nursing, and Pharmacology. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and earn registered nurse licensure in Missouri. Columbia College is also home to a traditional on-campus Bachelor of Science in Nursing program and an RN to BSN program that can be completed entirely online.
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Adn Program Admission Requirements In Missouri
Admission is typically very selective for nursing programs, so it’s smart to ensure that you meet all the program requirements before applying. While requirements vary depending on the school, you can expect to find something similar to the following:
- Cumulative GPA of 2.8 or above
- Completion of all prerequisite courses
- Submission of all official transcripts
- Submission of ACT scores and HESI A2 Entrance Exam with a minimum average score of 75%
Become A Nurse Practitioner In Missouri
Learn how to become a Nurse Practitioner and research schools in Missouri offering the following high paying nurse practitioner specialties:
Initial licensing fee, RN: $45License renewal , RN: $60
Continuing Education Requirements:None
There is strict regulation nurses must follow in order to obtain licensure in the state of Missouri. There are three ways a candidate can obtain licensure: by exam, by endorsement, and by completing a nursing program abroad.
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Are You A Graduate Nurse
As a graduate nurse at MU Health Care, you will participate in our nursing residency program, an innovative and exciting way for graduate nurses to experience orientation in conjunction with the training and orientation provided on your home unit.
MUHC Nurse Residency Program is accredited as a Practice Transition Program by the American Nurses Credentialing Centers Commission on Accreditation in Practice Transition Programs.
Learn about our Nursing Career Pathway.
What To Look For In An Adn Program In Missouri
There are a few key things to consider as you compare ADN programs, to ensure that you choose the right one for you. Check all prospective schools for the following:
Accreditation
There are a few industry-specific organizations that lend reputable accreditations to a school and its nursing programs. The Commission for Education in Nursing and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing’s Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education are a couple of big ones to look for, although there are others. It’s also a good idea to make sure your program is approved locally by the Missouri State Board of Nursing.
Licensing
The National Council Licensure Examination is the test you’ll need to pass in order to be eligible for registered nursing licensure and can be taken upon completion of your ADN program. To ensure that you choose an ADN program that fully prepares you for this exam researches all prospective schools for favorable and up-to-date curriculum, faculty, and NCLEX-RN pass rates.
Program Outcomes
A great way to explore the success of a potential ADN program is to check on program outcomes. Schools will often provide data from past program graduates, including stats on things like:
- Graduation rates
- Graduate satisfaction
- Employment rates
An example of a fully accredited ADN program in the state can be found at St. Charles Community College in Cottleville, MO.
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Accelerated Nursing Programs In Missouri
Where could you be in 12 to 18 months? If you are pursuing a nursing degree, you could have finished an accelerated BSN program at one of over 10 statewide colleges. Full-time studies and clinical hours can make for an intense program, but at the end you will have earned your degree and the opportunity to fast track your career. When you are looking at different programs, bear in mind that entrance eligibility varies from one college to another. Check the prerequisite courses beforehand to be well informed on what needs to be completed before the start date of the degree program. This research into prerequisites will also give you an estimate on additional costs and time frame.
Msn Programs In Missouri
For those wanting to go above and beyond in their nursing careers, a Master’s of Science in Nursing can take you there. This advanced program is required for such specialized nursing jobs as Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Midwife, Family Nurse Practitioner, and more. Those wanting to hold higher education or administrative nursing jobs will also need to obtain an MSN degree. These positions tend to come with higher salaries as well.
There are more than 3 schools in Missouri that offer accredited MSN programs for your consideration.
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Msn Program Length In Missouri
An MSN will take approximately 2-3 years to complete, depending on what courses are needed and what type of schedule you choose. Many MSN programs offer flexible classes in order to accommodate busy working RN schedules. Some MSN programs come with nursing specialties, and depending on the specialty chosen you may be required to complete more coursework, which may impact the length of time needed to complete the degree.
Rn Licensure By Endorsement
Missouri is a part of the Nursing Licensure Compact, which allows nurses who are licensed in Missouri to practice in other compact states. Nurses may only hold one compact license and it must be issues by the primary residence. Candidates who reside in a compact state outside of Missouri planning on changing the primary residence to Missouri within 9 days may declare their primary residency in Missouri. Nurses who declare a non-compact state as the primary residence will be required to meet all the other requirements for licensure in Missouri. The following documentation must be submitted:
- Completed, signed, and notarized application
- $55 fee by check or money order made payable to Missouri State Board of Nursing
- License verification
- Criminal background check along with the $44.80 fee
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