Best Nursing Programs in Iowa (2026)
Compare 157 accredited nursing programs across 37 schools in Iowa. Find the right fit by degree type, cost, duration, and delivery format.
157
Programs
37
Schools
$66,250
Avg RN Salary
18 mo
Fastest Program
Source: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2023
Explore Nursing in Iowa
Programs by Degree Type
70
MSN Programs
22
DNP Programs
7
BSN Programs
1
ADN Programs
Nursing Education in Iowa
Iowa offers 157 accredited nursing programs across 37 institutions, covering degree levels from LPN certificates through doctoral programs. Registered nurses in Iowa earn an average of $66,250 per year, with 4.3% job growth projected through 2032. 100 programs offer online or hybrid delivery, making it possible to earn your degree while working.
Iowa participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing RNs licensed in the state to practice across all compact member states without additional licensure. All nursing graduates must pass the NCLEX exam to obtain licensure. Continuing education requirements include 36 hours per renewal cycle (3 years).
Tuition for nursing programs in Iowa starts at $13,500, with community college ADN programs generally offering the lowest cost pathway to an RN license. With an average RN salary of $66,250, even the most expensive programs typically deliver a strong return on investment within 2–4 years of graduation.
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Nursing Schools in Iowa
37 accredited institutions offering nursing programs.
| School | Programs | Degree Types | NCLEX Rate | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Excelsior University | 2 | ADNBSN | N/A | View |
| Western Governors University | 3 | BSNMSN | 91.8% | View |
| Aspen University | 3 | BSNMSN | N/A | View |
| National University | 4 | BSNMSN | N/A | View |
| Joyce University of Nursing and Health Sciences | 2 | BSNMSN | 91.2% | View |
| Southern New Hampshire University | 1 | BSN | N/A | View |
| American Public University System | 1 | BSN | N/A | View |
| Drexel University | 4 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| University of Texas at Arlington | 4 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| Regis College | 3 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| Grand Canyon University | 4 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| University of Pennsylvania | 3 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| Maryville University | 3 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| Simmons University | 3 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| Arizona State University | 3 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| Sacred Heart University | 3 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| Liberty University | 4 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| Johns Hopkins University | 2 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| University of Michigan — Flint | 4 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| Michigan State University | 3 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
All Nursing Programs in Iowa
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Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Pre-Licensure)
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Joyce University of Nursing and Health Sciences
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