Are you ready to take a leap into the world of nursing? Utah is home to some of the best nursing schools in the country, and we're here with an updated list for 2023. Whether you're a fresh-faced high school graduate or a seasoned professional looking to advance your career, this article will guide you through the top 11 nursing schools in Utah.
Best nursing schools in Utah
Utah boasts several reputable nursing schools. Here are 11 of the best:
1- Southern Utah University
While Utah lacks large campuses, Southern Utah University accommodates over 12,000 on-campus students, rivaling bigger schools. SUU is near various state and national parks, making it the perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Nursing students choose between a pre-licensure track and an RN to BSN program at SUU. The pre-licensure track admits 30 students per semester with biannual application windows, making it competitive but worthwhile. However, SUU does not offer graduate-level programs, but its BSN program provides a strong foundation for students.
Southern Utah University tuition costs:
In-state tuition fees for undergraduate students at Southern Utah University are $6,726 per year. After completing their degree, nursing graduates from Southern Utah University carry an average student debt load of $13,482.
Southern Utah University NCLEX pass rate average:
The Southern Utah University (SUU) NCLEX pass rate average is 95.83%.
Southern Utah University accreditation status:
Southern Utah University (SUU) is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). NWCCU is one of six regional accrediting agencies in the United States. Accreditation is a voluntary process that ensures that institutions of higher education meet high standards of quality.
Southern Utah University degree programs offered:
Southern Utah University (SUU) offers the following nursing programs:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): The BSN program is a four-year program that prepares students for a career as a registered nurse (RN). The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN): The ABSN program is an accelerated program that allows students to earn a BSN degree in 18 months. The program is designed for students who have a bachelor's degree in another field and who want to become RNs.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): The MSN program is a two-year program that prepares students for advanced practice nursing roles, such as nurse practitioner, nurse anesthetist, and nurse midwife. The MSN program is accredited by the CCNE.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): The DNP program is a three-year program that prepares students for leadership roles in nursing practice, education, and research. The DNP program is accredited by the CCNE.
Southern Utah University campus description:
Southern Utah University (SUU) is a public university located in Cedar City, Utah. The campus is situated in a beautiful setting, surrounded by red rock mountains and national parks.
The SUU campus is a mix of old and new, with historic buildings nestled among modern facilities. The campus is also home to a variety of public art installations and sculptures.
One of the most popular spots on campus is the Centrum Arena, a multi-purpose facility that hosts concerts, sporting events, and other community events.
Here are some additional details about the SUU campus:
The campus is home to over 12,000 students.
The campus is located on over 170 acres of land.
The campus features over 100 buildings and facilities.
The campus is home to a variety of academic programs, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs.
The campus is also home to a variety of student organizations and clubs.
SUU is a great place to get a quality education while also enjoying a beautiful setting and a supportive community.
2- University of Utah
The University of Utah provides a nursing bridge program for students coming from Salt Lake Community College (SLCC). In addition to their standard academic offerings, the college also offers a minor in Gerontology.
The DNP program at the university includes a certified nurse-midwifery track, which holds accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education.
Additionally, the College of Nursing hosts several research centers, including the Hartford Center of Geriatric Nursing Excellence and the Center of Excellence for Exposure Health Informatics (CEEHI). Furthermore, the university is ranked as the second-best value among colleges and universities in Utah.
University of Utah tuition costs:
The average tuition and fees for an in-state undergraduate at U of U are $9,002 a year and the out-of-state annual tuition is $30,488.
University of Utah NCLEX pass rate average:
The University of Utah NCLEX pass rate average is 90%.
University of Utah accreditation status:
The University of Utah is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), a regional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
University of Utah degree programs offered:
The University of Utah College of Nursing offers a variety of nursing programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate levels.
Undergraduate programs:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN)
Graduate programs:
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Post-Master's Certificate in Nursing Education
Post-Master's Certificate in Nursing Leadership
Post-graduate programs:
Dual DNP/PhD in Nursing
PhD in Nursing
University of Utah campus description:
The University of Utah campus is located in Salt Lake City, Utah. The campus is situated in a beautiful setting, surrounded by mountains and red rock formations.
One of the most popular spots on campus is the Jon M. Huntsman Center, a multi-purpose arena that hosts basketball games, concerts, and other events.
Another popular spot is the Red Butte Gardens, a botanical garden that features a variety of plants and flowers.
The University of Utah campus is also home to a number of museums, including the Natural History Museum of Utah and the Utah Museum of Fine Arts.
In addition to the academic and recreational facilities listed above, the University of Utah campus also features a number of other amenities, including:
A library
A bookstore
A student center
A food court
A variety of student organizations and clubs
The University of Utah campus is a great place to live and learn. It offers students a variety of opportunities to succeed academically, socially, and personally.
3- Weber State University
Weber State University is a higher education institution located in Ogden, Utah. It offers a wide range of academic programs and is known for its commitment to providing quality education. The university has a diverse student body and is recognized for its strong community engagement and academic excellence. Weber State University is dedicated to preparing students for successful careers and personal growth, making it a respected institution in the region and beyond.
Weber State University tuition costs:
The average tuition and fees for an in-state undergraduate at WSU are $5,471 a year and the out-of-state annual tuition is $16,164. While working on their degree, nursing majors at WSU accumulate an average of around $17,115 in student debt.
Weber State University NCLEX pass rate average:
Weber State University NCLEX pass rate average is 88.43%.
Weber State University accreditation status:
Weber State University (WSU) is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). NWCCU is one of six regional accrediting agencies in the United States.
Weber State University degree programs offered:
Here are the programs offered by this university:
ADN
PN to RN
RN to BSN
MSN
DNP
BSN
Weber State University campus description:
Weber State University's (WSU) Ogden campus is located in the heart of Ogden, Utah. The campus is situated on a beautiful hilltop overlooking the city and the Ogden Valley.
One of the most popular spots on campus is the Ogden Amphitheater, a outdoor amphitheater that hosts concerts, festivals, and other events.
Another popular spot is the Browning Center, a performing arts center that hosts plays, musicals, and other performances.
4- Roseman University
The Roseman Veteran to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (VBSN) admissions pathway provides Veterans with the chance to transfer military experiential credit for relevant prerequisites and nursing courses. This accelerated BSN program is available in either a fully online format or as a hybrid online program.
Roseman University tuition costs:
The annual tuition of Roseman University is $36,297.
Roseman University NCLEX pass rate average:
Roseman University NCLEX pass rate average is 98.55%.
Roseman University accreditation status:
Roseman University is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
Roseman University degree programs offered:
Accelerated BSN
Veteran to BSN Pathway
MSN in FNP
RN to BSN
DNP
Roseman University campus description:
Roseman University has two campuses, one in Henderson, Nevada, and one in South Jordan, Utah. The Henderson campus is located in the heart of the city's medical district. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including a pharmacy simulation lab, a nursing skills lab, and a human cadaver lab.
5- Utah State University
Situated in the northern region of Utah, Utah State University may not immediately catch your eye, but it has earned a recent distinction as one of the leading public universities in the country. The picturesque mountain landscapes that encircle the campus offer a wealth of opportunities for exploration and recreation.
USU's Logan campus hosts a traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that spans four years. This comprehensive program equips students for the NCLEX-RN examination, and the latest cohort of test-takers clearly showcases USU's outstanding ability to prepare students to excel in this crucial assessment.
Utah State University tuition costs:
The annual in-state tuition is $9,228 and the annual out-of-state tuition is $24,802.
Utah State University NCLEX pass rate average:
Utah State University NCLEX pass rate average is 89.66%.
Utah State University accreditation status:
Utah State University (USU) is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). NWCCU is one of six regional accrediting agencies in the United States.
Utah State University degree programs offered:
Utah State University provides a pathway to nursing licensure with their Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS) in Nursing.
This program offers students the choice of a one-year option to pursue LPN or RN licensure or a competitive four-year pre-licensure Baccalaureate of Science in Nursing (BSN) program.
The AAS Nursing Program combines nursing theory, scientific knowledge, and hands-on clinical experience to equip students for a wide range of nursing positions in various healthcare environments.
Utah State University campus description:
Utah State University (USU) is a public land-grant research university located in Logan, Utah. It is the state's largest public residential campus, with over 21,000 students living on or near its main campus.
The campus also features a number of public art installations and sculptures. Another popular spot is the Quadrangle, a large open space surrounded by academic buildings.
6- Brigham Young University
Brigham Young University, often abbreviated as BYU, is a private research university in the United States affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). It is located in Provo, Utah, and is known for its strong emphasis on religious values, academic excellence, and a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
With a student population exceeding 34,000, Brigham Young University (BYU) ranks among the United States' leading private institutions. Its BSN program, boasting an affordable cost and an impressive NCLEX pass rate, is bound to attract a substantial number of prospective students.
What sets BYU apart is its unique allowance for students to work part-time while pursuing their BSN, a feature discouraged by most other institutions. This employment opportunity can also assist in offsetting tuition expenses.
Brigham Young University tuition costs:
The in-state annual tuition of Brigham Young University is $6,120 and its out-of-state annual tuition is $12,240.
Brigham Young University NCLEX pass rate average:
Brigham Young University NCLEX pass rate average is 96.95%
Brigham Young University accreditation status:
Brigham Young University (BYU) is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
Brigham Young University degree programs offered:
Brigham Young University (BYU) offers the following nursing programs:
BSN
MSN
Family Nurse Practitioner
Brigham Young University campus description:
Brigham Young University (BYU) is located in Provo, Utah. The campus is situated on a beautiful hilltop overlooking the city and the Wasatch Mountains.
One of the most popular spots on campus is the Wilkinson Student Center, a large complex that houses a variety of student services, including a food court, a bookstore, and a student recreation center.
Another popular spot is the Harold B. Lee Library, a state-of-the-art library that houses a collection of over 3 million volumes.
7- Provo College
Provo College is a private, non-profit college located in Provo, Utah. The college offers a variety of associate's and bachelor's degree programs in healthcare, business, and technology.
Provo College's campus is located in a convenient location near the Provo River and several parks, restaurants, and shops. The campus is also close to Brigham Young University and Utah Valley University, which offers students access to a variety of resources and opportunities.
Provo College tuition costs:
The annual tuition is $17,112.
Provo College NCLEX pass rate average:
Provo College NCLEX pass rate average is 70.99%.
Provo College accreditation status:
Provo College is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). ABHES is a national accrediting agency that specializes in health professions education.
Provo College degree programs offered:
Associate's degrees:
Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS)
Associate of Science in Health Information Technology
Associate of Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant (AOTA)
Associate of Science in Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)
Bachelor's degrees:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy (BSOT)
Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy (DPT)
Provo College campus description:
Provo College is located on a small, beautiful campus in the heart of Provo, Utah. The campus is surrounded by trees and has a pond in the center.
The campus is home to several academic buildings, a library, a student center, and recreational facilities.
8- Westminster College
Situated in Salt Lake City, Westminster College stands as one of Utah's most ancient higher education institutions. Being a private institution, students are required to cover higher tuition costs, yet financial aid options can help alleviate this burden.
The conventional BSN program employs a creative flipped classroom approach, allowing students to access their study materials before attending class.
When students arrive for their classes, they will be well-prepared to engage actively in discussions. The nursing courses are intentionally limited to a maximum of 24 students, fostering an optimal learning setting for the students.
Westminster College tuition costs:
The annual tuition of Westminster College is $39,382.
Westminster College NCLEX pass rate average:
Western Governors University NCLEX pass rate average is 88.46%.
Westminster College accreditation status:
Westminster College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), which is one of the six regional accrediting agencies in the United States.
Westminster College degree programs offered:
MSN
BSN
DNP
Westminster College campus description:
The campus is home to a variety of academic buildings, residence halls, and recreational facilities. One of the most popular spots on campus is the Thompson Library, which features a state-of-the-art collection of books, journals, and other resources.
Another popular spot is the Centennial Hall, which houses the college's performing arts center and art gallery.
9- Joyce University
Joyce University of Nursing & Health Sciences, formerly Ameritech College of Healthcare, offers a limited range of degrees. To earn a BSN, you can take the RN to BSN online program, which takes less than a year.
If you complete the associate of science in nursing (ASN), you can then pursue the RN to BSN, allowing you to finish your bachelor's degree in just 32 months, although it's an unconventional path.
Joyce University tuition costs:
The annual tuition of Joyce University is $12,068.
Joyce University NCLEX pass rate average:
Joyce University NCLEX pass rate average is 77.78%.
Joyce University accreditation status:
Joyce University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). NWCCU is one of the six regional accrediting agencies in the United States.
Joyce University degree programs offered:
ASN
BSN
ABSN
RN to BSN
MSN
DE-MSN
Joyce University campus description:
Joyce University is located in Provo, Utah, on a beautiful campus overlooking the Wasatch Mountains.
One of the most popular spots on campus is the Joyce Johnson Simulation Center, which features state-of-the-art simulation equipment to help students prepare for their careers in nursing and occupational therapy.
Another popular spot is the Student Life Center, which features a variety of amenities, including a fitness center, a game room, and a student union.
10- Utah Valley University
Utah Valley University (UVU) is a public university located in Orem, Utah. UVU offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, including associate's degrees, bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and doctorates. The university is known for its strong programs in nursing, business, and engineering.
UVU's campus is located in a beautiful setting in the Wasatch Mountains. The campus features a variety of academic buildings, residence halls, and recreational facilities.
Utah Valley University tuition costs:
The in-state annual tuition of Utah Valley University is $5,614 and the out-of-state annual tuition is $17,174.
Utah Valley University NCLEX pass rate average:
Utah Valley University NCLEX pass rate average is 88%.
Utah Valley University accreditation status:
Utah Valley University (UVU) is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
Utah Valley University degree programs offered:
ASN
RN to BSN
MSN
Utah Valley University campus description:
Utah Valley University (UVU) is located in Orem, Utah, on a beautiful campus nestled in the Wasatch Mountains.
The campus is home to a variety of academic buildings, residence halls, and recreational facilities. UVU is known for its strong programs in nursing, business, and engineering.
11- Utah Tech University
Ranked among the top regional colleges in the western region by U.S. News & World Report, Utah Tech University offers a CNA program that grants college credits for CNA coursework.
Concurrent Enrollment courses extend the same credit opportunity to high school students. Within the LPN to RN program, students acquire foundational concepts in the initial semester as prerequisites for their ongoing coursework progression.
Utah Tech University tuition costs:
The in-state annual tuition of Utah Tech University is $5,266 and the out-of-state annual tuition is $16,836.
Utah Tech University NCLEX pass rate average:
Utah Tech University NCLEX pass rate average is 60%.
Utah Tech University accreditation status:
Utah Tech University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
Utah Tech University degree programs offered:
BSN
RN-BSN
CNA
AASN
Utah Tech University campus description:
Utah Tech University (UT) is located in St. George, Utah, on a beautiful campus overlooking the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area.
Encampment Mall is the heart of the campus, where students gather to study, socialize, and enjoy the outdoors.
How to choose the best nursing school?
Choosing the best nursing school is a crucial decision that will shape your education and career in nursing. Here are some steps and factors to consider when making this important choice:
Accreditation
Ensure that the nursing school is accredited by a recognized accrediting body, such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Accreditation ensures that the program meets certain quality and educational standards.
Program type
Determine whether you want to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), or a doctoral degree in nursing (DNP or PhD). Your career goals and educational background will influence your choice.
Location
Consider the location of the nursing school. Do you prefer a local school or are you open to relocating? Location can impact factors such as cost, clinical opportunities, and the overall experience.
Cost and financial aid
Evaluate the cost of tuition, fees, and other expenses. Research available scholarships, grants, and financial aid options. Also, consider the cost of living if you need to relocate for school.
NCLEX pass rates
The NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses) is the licensure exam you'll need to pass to become a registered nurse. Look for nursing schools with high NCLEX pass rates, as this is a strong indicator of the quality of the program.
If you need a quality NCLEX study tool, you can give Smart’n a try. Smart'n is a platform that helps nursing students with their studies. It offers access to lots of practice questions, explanations, and tests.
There are over 2,500 practice questions and more than 60 hours of nursing case studies, similar to the NGN NCLEX style, on Smart'n. These questions and case studies are short and organized by topic, like respiratory, cardiac, mental health, and more. This makes it simpler for students to concentrate on specific areas of nursing practice.
Smart'n is a program that helps nursing students by giving them scholarship grants. It eases their financial burden in two ways:
It offers a $300 grant every month to a Smart'n member who answers five questions on the grant application. There's no membership fee required. Students just need to be in their final year of study at an approved nursing school in North America.
Every week, it provides a $100 grant to a Smart'n member currently studying nursing in North America. This grant is meant to assist with expenses like textbooks, lab fees, and other education-related costs.
Clinical opportunities
Nursing education involves both classroom learning and clinical experiences. Research the availability and quality of clinical rotations and partnerships with healthcare facilities.
Faculty qualifications
The expertise and experience of the nursing faculty are important. Look for schools with faculty who have a strong background in nursing and teaching.
Student-to-faculty ratio
Smaller class sizes and a lower student-to-faculty ratio can lead to more personalized instruction and support.
Reputation and rankings
Research the reputation and rankings of the nursing school. However, remember that rankings are just one factor to consider, and the best school for you might not be the highest-ranked one.
Specializations
If you have a specific area of interest within nursing, check if the school offers relevant specializations or concentrations, such as pediatrics, gerontology, or critical care.
Factors that affect nursing school tuition
Type of program
Public vs. private schools
Location
School reputation
Program duration
Financial aid and scholarships
Additional fees
Class size and student-to-faculty ratio
Clinical placement costs
Technology and equipment fees
Housing and living expenses
Textbooks and learning materials
Lab and simulation resources
Mandatory health and liability insurance
Student services and support programs
Specialized certifications or courses
Distance learning or online program costs
Uniforms and clinical attire expenses
Exam and licensure application fees
Continuing education or professional development costs
Miscellaneous fees for background checks and drug tests
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right nursing school is a pivotal step in your journey to becoming a healthcare professional. With the 2023 update, we've highlighted the 10 best nursing schools in Utah, each offering unique advantages and opportunities for aspiring nurses. Whether you're seeking a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to kickstart your career or pursuing an advanced degree to specialize in a particular field of nursing, these institutions can provide the education and training you need. Remember to consider your individual goals, budget, and location preferences when making your decision. Nursing is not just a profession; it's a calling to make a positive impact on people's lives, and the right school can set you on the path to success. We wish you the best of luck as you embark on your nursing education journey in Utah!
FAQs
1- How long does it take to become an RN in Utah?
It takes two years to complete an ADN program or four years for a BSN program, whether you attend nursing school in Utah or another state.
2- How do I get my RN license in Utah?
To get your RN license in Utah, you must:
Complete a nursing program that is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
Pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
Apply for a nursing license from the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL).
