Alaska Pacific University vs Alverno College: Which Nursing Program Is Better?
A side-by-side comparison of nursing programs, tuition, accreditation, and delivery format to help you choose the right school for your career.
Program Comparison at a Glance
| Feature | Alaska Pacific University | Alverno College |
|---|---|---|
| Programs Offered | 2 programs | 1 program |
| Accreditation | ACEN | CCNE |
| Starting Tuition | $20,000 | $63,525 |
| Delivery Format | On Campus, Online | On Campus |
| Shortest Program | 12 months | 18 months |
Programs at Alaska Pacific University
Alaska Pacific University vs Alverno College: In-Depth Analysis
Choosing between Alaska Pacific University and Alverno College is one of the most consequential decisions in a nursing career. Both institutions offer accredited programs designed to prepare graduates for licensure and professional practice in a field that the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects will add approximately 193,100 job openings per year through 2032.
Accreditation
Alaska Pacific University holds accreditation from ACEN, while Alverno College is accredited by CCNE. Programmatic accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) ensures that curricula meet nationally recognized standards, that graduates are eligible for professional licensure, and that credits may transfer to graduate programs. Employers — especially Magnet-designated hospitals — strongly prefer graduates from CCNE- or ACEN-accredited programs.
Tuition & Cost
Starting tuition at Alaska Pacific University begins around $20,000, while programs at Alverno College start from $63,525. Alaska Pacific University offers lower starting tuition — a meaningful factor for students weighing their return on investment. The BLS reports the median annual RN salary was $93,600 as of May 2024 — a strong long-term return on nursing education investment.
Program Selection
Alaska Pacific University currently offers 2 programs, while Alverno College lists 1 program.
Delivery Format
Online and hybrid nursing programs allow working professionals to earn degrees while maintaining employment and family commitments. Alaska Pacific University offers programs in on campus, online format. Alverno College offers programs in on campus format. Verify that any online program you select meets your state board of nursing requirements for clinical hours and licensure eligibility.
NCLEX Pass Rates
NCLEX pass rate data is not currently available for these programs in our database. The national average first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate is approximately 87–89 percent(NCSBN). Request program-level pass rate data directly from each school or check your state board of nursing's public disclosure database.
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Our Verdict
If cost is your primary concern, Alaska Pacific University offers a lower starting tuition ($20,000). Alverno College may offer additional program options or specializations that justify its higher investment. We recommend requesting official information from both schools and comparing total cost of attendance, accreditation status, NCLEX pass rates, and program delivery format before making a final decision.