Best Nursing Programs in Kentucky (2026)
Compare 162 accredited nursing programs across 39 schools in Kentucky. Find the right fit by degree type, cost, duration, and delivery format.
162
Programs
39
Schools
$68,150
Avg RN Salary
12 mo
Fastest Program
Source: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2023
Explore Nursing in Kentucky
Programs by Degree Type
67
MSN Programs
23
DNP Programs
9
BSN Programs
1
ADN Programs
Nursing Education in Kentucky
Kentucky offers 162 accredited nursing programs across 39 institutions, covering degree levels from LPN certificates through doctoral programs. Registered nurses in Kentucky earn an average of $68,150 per year, with 5.4% job growth projected through 2032. 98 programs offer online or hybrid delivery, making it possible to earn your degree while working.
Kentucky 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 14 hours per renewal cycle (2 years).
Tuition for nursing programs in Kentucky 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 $68,150, 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 Kentucky
39 accredited institutions offering nursing programs.
| School | Programs | Degree Types | NCLEX Rate | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Galen College of Nursing | 1 | BSN | 85.3% | View |
| Vanderbilt University | 4 | BSNDNPMSN | 97.0% | View |
| Excelsior University | 2 | ADNBSN | N/A | View |
| Western Governors University | 3 | BSNMSN | 91.8% | View |
| National University | 4 | BSNMSN | N/A | View |
| Aspen University | 3 | 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 |
| University of Texas at Arlington | 4 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| Capella University | 2 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| Maryville University | 3 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| Walden University | 3 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| University of Michigan — Flint | 3 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| Regis College | 3 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| George Washington University | 3 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| Simmons University | 3 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| Arizona State University | 3 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| Drexel University | 4 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
| University of Phoenix | 3 | DNPMSN | N/A | View |
All Nursing Programs in Kentucky
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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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