Top Nursing Schools in Iowa

Iowa is home to some of the best nursing schools in the Midwest, offering high-quality education, hands-on clinical experience, and strong job placement rates. Whether you’re looking for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), a Master’s in Nursing (MSN), or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), Iowa has a range of programs to help launch or advance your nursing career.

This guide highlights the top nursing schools in Iowa, detailing their programs, unique offerings, and scholarship opportunities to help you make the best choice.

Top Nursing Schools in Iowa

University of Iowa College of Nursing

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The University of Iowa College of Nursing, located in Iowa City, is one of the most prestigious nursing schools in the country. It consistently ranks among the top 10 public nursing schools in the U.S.

Key Features:

Highly Ranked: Top-ranked BSN, MSN, and DNP programs in the nation.
Clinical Partnerships: Works with University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, a nationally recognized hospital system.
Innovative Research: Offers opportunities in nursing research, including geriatrics, oncology, and community health.
High NCLEX Pass Rate: Consistently above the national average.
Flexible Learning: Online and hybrid options available for advanced degrees.

Programs Offered:

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – A four-year program with hands-on clinical training.
RN to BSN Program – Designed for registered nurses looking to earn their BSN online.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Prepares students for leadership and advanced practice roles.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) – A top-tier nurse practitioner program.
PhD in Nursing – Research-focused program for aspiring nurse scientists and educators.

Allen College School of Nursing

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Located in Waterloo, Iowa, Allen College is known for its small class sizes and strong clinical training. The school is affiliated with UnityPoint Health – Allen Hospital, providing students with hands-on experience in a hospital setting.

Key Features:

Direct Entry for BSN – Students can start their nursing education right away.
Strong Clinical Rotations – Works with UnityPoint Health and other medical facilities.
Hybrid & Online Options – Flexible learning for advanced nursing programs.
High NCLEX Pass Rates – Graduates consistently score well on licensing exams.

Programs Offered:

BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) – Traditional and accelerated options.
RN to BSN (Online Program) – For working RNs who want to advance their education.
MSN (Master of Science in Nursing) – Specialties include Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Nurse Leadership.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) – Prepares nurses for leadership in healthcare.

Mercy College of Health Sciences School of Nursing

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Mercy College, located in Des Moines, is a leader in hands-on nursing education. It offers fast-track nursing programs, including accelerated BSN and ADN options.

Key Features:

Strong NCLEX Pass Rates – Graduates perform well on licensing exams.
Accelerated BSN Program – Designed for students with a prior bachelor’s degree in another field.
Clinical Experience in MercyOne Health System – Students train in one of Iowa’s top hospital networks.
Workforce-Ready Programs – Many students receive job offers before graduation.

Programs Offered:

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) – Fast-track program for entry-level nurses.
BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) – Traditional and accelerated pathways.
RN to BSN Program – 100% online for working nurses.
Nursing Assistant & Practical Nursing (LPN) – Shorter programs for entry-level healthcare careers.

Northwestern College Nursing Program

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Northwestern College in Orange City, IA, is a private Christian college with a top-tier nursing program. The school focuses on holistic patient care and leadership in nursing.

Key Features:

Faith-Based Nursing Education – Integrates Christian values into the nursing profession.
Small Class Sizes – Personalized education with close faculty mentorship.
Strong Clinical Placements – Students train in major hospitals and rural clinics.
High NCLEX Pass Rates – Graduates perform well on the licensing exam.

Programs Offered:

Traditional BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
RN to BSN (Online Program) – Designed for registered nurses looking to advance their careers.

Other Notable Nursing Schools in Iowa

Clarke University Nursing Program

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BSN, MSN, and DNP programs available.
Strong focus on community and rural healthcare.

Mount Mercy University Nursing Program

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Offers BSN, MSN, and RN-to-BSN pathways.
Simulation labs for hands-on learning.

Grand View University Nursing Program

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BSN, RN-to-BSN, and MSN degrees available.
Emphasis on evidence-based practice and leadership.

Choosing the Right Nursing School in Iowa

When selecting a nursing school in Iowa, consider the following factors:

1. Program Type & Flexibility

Need a fast-track option? Mercy College offers an accelerated BSN and ADN.
Want small class sizes and a Christian approach? Consider Northwestern College.
Looking for online flexibility? Schools like Allen College and Grand View University offer online RN-to-BSN programs.

2. Clinical Training Opportunities

The University of Iowa partners with top-tier hospitals for clinical rotations.
Mercy College students train in the MercyOne Health System, offering real-world hospital experience.

3. Affordability & Scholarships

Allen College and Mount Mercy University offer merit-based and need-based scholarships.
The University of Iowa has extensive financial aid and nursing scholarships for students.

Explore Nursing Scholarships in Iowa

Final Thoughts: Why Study Nursing in Iowa?

Iowa’s nursing schools offer high-quality education, excellent clinical training, and strong job placement rates. Whether you’re starting your career with a BSN, advancing with an MSN, or pursuing leadership roles with a DNP, Iowa has top-tier programs to help you succeed.

Start your journey today by exploring these top nursing schools in Iowa and applying for scholarships and financial aid!

Start your journey today—apply to one of these top universities in Iowa and take the first step toward achieving your academic and career goals!

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