The Top Nursing Schools in Iowa
- Top Schools and Programs
- How to Choose a Program
- Why Become a Nurse
- Salary Outlook
- State Nursing Requirements
Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?
Credit: Monte Goodyk | Moment | Getty ImagesSince the COVID-19 pandemic, Iowa hospitals have experienced an increase in patients and an exodus of nurses, creating a great demand for healthcare professionals.
This guide explores how to become a nurse in Iowa, the salary and job outlook, and the best nursing programs in the state. Keep reading to learn more about the top nursing programs in Iowa.
The Best Nursing Schools in Iowa
Learn more about the top nursing schools in Iowa and how to choose a program that fits your needs.
Our Methodology: We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best nursing schools in Iowa, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.
North Iowa Area Community College
Mason City, IA- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$4,793
- Out-of-state$7,189
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate66%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,894
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment73%
- AccreditationYes
Coe College
- Cedar Rapids, IA
- 4 year
- Campus
- In-State$45,230
- Out-of-state$45,230
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate80%
- Acceptance Rate63%
- Students Enrolled1,430
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
- AccreditationYes
Northwest Iowa Community College
- Sheldon, IA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$5,190
- Out-of-state$5,490
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,777
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment67%
- AccreditationYes
Mount Mercy University
- Cedar Rapids, IA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$32,862
- Out-of-state$32,862
- In-State$10,296
- Out-of-state$10,296
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance Rate66%
- Students Enrolled1,807
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment29%
- AccreditationYes
St Luke's College
- Sioux City, IA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$18,900
- Out-of-state$18,900
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance Rate29%
- Students Enrolled235
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment53%
- AccreditationYes
Iowa Lakes Community College
- Estherville, IA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$5,856
- Out-of-state$6,208
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,035
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment35%
- AccreditationYes
Western Iowa Tech Community College
- Sioux City, IA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$3,672
- Out-of-state$3,696
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate64%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled5,976
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment45%
- AccreditationYes
Morningside College
- Sioux City, IA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$31,220
- Out-of-state$31,220
- In-State$5,040
- Out-of-state$5,040
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance Rate63%
- Students Enrolled2,599
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment54%
- AccreditationYes
Saint Ambrose University
- Davenport, IA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$31,532
- Out-of-state$31,532
- In-State$17,460
- Out-of-state$17,460
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate77%
- Students Enrolled2,968
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment17%
- AccreditationYes
Eastern Iowa Community College District
- Davenport, IA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$5,376
- Out-of-state$7,520
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate64%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled8,002
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment37%
- AccreditationYes
How to Choose a Nursing Program in Iowa
When choosing a nursing program in Iowa, consider factors that might impact your academic and professional goals. To simplify the selection process, research the cost, program length, financial aid options, and curriculum to ensure a good fit.
Determine if the program successfully prepares its students for nursing by verifying nursing program accreditation and reviewing the average National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) scores and graduation rates.
Why Become a Nurse in Iowa
With its projected employment demand above the national average, coupled with having one of the lowest costs of living in the nation, Iowa is an excellent location for prospective and current registered nurses (RNs) and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs).
Iowa also benefits from being a part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). As part of the NLC, Iowa has joined 36 other states in agreeing to a set of rules and procedures all licensed RNs must follow.
RNs from one of the other 36 NLC states can qualify for a license in Iowa with minimal paperwork. Conversely, RNs licensed in Iowa have an easier time practicing in another NLC state.
Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Iowa
With an average annual salary of $62,570, RNs in Iowa have one of the lowest compensation rates in the county, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Nurse practitioners (NPs) earn a higher annual mean wage of $107,910, which is slightly more than the national median of $117,670. Learn more about RN salaries in Iowa.
Despite lower RN salaries, nurses who work in Iowa benefit from the state’s low cost of living, with an index of 90.1 compared to a national average of 100. Iowa also expects an increase in the demand for nurses. According to the BLS, the state can expect a 15.1% increase in employment, which is higher than the 12.1% growth projected nationally.
Highest-Paying Cities for Nurses in Iowa
The highest-paying cities in Iowa are located in the more densely populated areas of the state, such as Des Moines, the state’s capital. Cities to the north and east of the capital include some of the state’s highest-paying regions.
| Top Paying Metropolitan Areas | Median Salary for RNs |
|---|---|
| Iowa City | $68,940 |
| Des Moines — West Des Moines | $64,140 |
| Ames | $64,030 |
| Cedar Rapids | $61,540 |
| Waterloo — Cedar Falls | $61,080 |
Steps to Becoming a Nurse in Iowa
The state nursing licensing requirements in Iowa are similar to those in other states. Prospective RNs must graduate from a state board-approved nursing program, pass the NCLEX, and complete a background check. APRNs must meet the same requirements as RNs in addition to completing a graduate nursing program and a specialty certification exam.
Both RNs and APRNs must satisfy continuing education requirements for nurses to maintain their license.
RN Requirements
To become an RN in Iowa, nurses must graduate from an accredited nursing program with either anassociate degree in nursing (ADN) or abachelor of science in nursing (BSN). Upon completion, prospective nurses must pass the NCLEX-RN exam and apply for licensure to the state. Fees include a $200 examination fee, $93 application fee, and $50 for a background check.
RNs need a minimum of 36 continuing education hours every three years to maintain licensure. The state also requires nurses who regularly examine, counsel, or treat dependent adults or children to complete training on the identification and reporting of abuse.
APRN Requirements
To become an APRN, nurses need an unencumbered RN license that allows them to practice in the state. RNs must earn amaster of science in nursing (MSN) or adoctor of nursing practice and pass a national certification exam in a nursing specialty. An examination fee applies, which varies by specialty. Nurses must also pay an $81 application fee and a $50 background check fee to get their license from the state.
APRNs only need 36 contact hours each year to maintain their license. They must also complete training on the identification and reporting of abuse if they regularly examine, counsel, or treat dependent adults or children.
Other Top Nursing Programs in Iowa
Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Iowa
How long does it take to become an RN in Iowa?
The time it takes to become a nurse in Iowa depends upon the academic path. Full-time students can complete an ADN program in two years and a BSN in four years. A part-time schedule can increase this time line.
An MSN program typically takes two years to complete when enrolled full time after earning a BSN and gaining two years of clinical experience. Therefore, it could take up to eight years to start practicing as an APRN.
Is Iowa a good state for nursing?
The low cost of living, projected demand for healthcare professionals, and NLC status make Iowa a great location for prospective nurses and seasoned veterans.
Does an online nursing degree have the same value as an on-campus degree?
Much like an in-person program, the value of an online degree depends on the institution. Over 90% of students who attended online programs at Allen College, Graceland University, Mount Mercy University, Northwest Iowa Community College, and the University of Iowa passed the NCLEX on their first attempt, highlighting their ability to successfully prepare future nurses.
Is Iowa a compact state?
Yes. In 1998, the Iowa State Board of Nursing voted to initiate compact legislation, which became active in 2000. Iowa nurses can earn a multistate license that allows them to practice in other compact states. Those who move to Iowa from another compact state must apply for primary licensure in Iowa.
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