Alverno College vs American Public University System: 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 | Alverno College | American Public University System |
|---|---|---|
| Programs Offered | 1 program | 8 programs |
| Accreditation | CCNE | CCNE |
| Starting Tuition | $63,525 | $8,100 |
| Delivery Format | On Campus | Online |
| Shortest Program | 18 months | 15 months |
Alverno College vs American Public University System: In-Depth Analysis
Choosing between Alverno College and American Public University System 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
Alverno College holds accreditation from CCNE, while American Public University System 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 Alverno College begins around $63,525, while programs at American Public University System start from $8,100. American Public University System 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
Alverno College currently offers 1 program, while American Public University System lists 8 programs. Both schools offer programs at the same degree levels (MSN), giving prospective students the option to compare curriculum depth, clinical requirements, and delivery format at each institution before deciding.
Delivery Format
Online and hybrid nursing programs allow working professionals to earn degrees while maintaining employment and family commitments. Alverno College offers programs in on campus format. American Public University System offers programs in online 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 first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate for U.S.-educated candidates was 86.7% in 2025 (NCSBN), down from 91.2% in 2024. Request program-level pass rate data directly from each school or check your state board of nursing's public disclosure database.
Our Verdict
If cost is your primary concern, American Public University System offers a lower starting tuition ($8,100). 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.