The Top Nursing Schools in Mississippi

Mississippi nursing schools offer affordable academic programs online that prepare graduates for certification. The anticipated demand for nurses coupled with financial incentives, such as loan forgiveness and state grants, make Mississippi a great place for nursing students.

This guide explores how to become a nurse in Mississippi, the salary and job outlook, and the best nursing programs available in the state. Keep reading to learn more about the top nursing schools and programs in Mississippi.

Explore the best nursing schools in Mississippi and discover the programs that can provide options for prospective nurses.

Our Methodology: We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best nursing schools in Mississippi, 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.

When deciding on a program, applicants should consider various factors based on their professional and academic goals. Prospective students need to research features, such as tuition, program length, and financial aid resources for nurses.

Make sure the nursing institution is accredited and review its National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) scores and graduation rates. These numbers can demonstrate program strength.

With a selection of affordable academic programs, above-average NCLEX pass rates, and low cost of living, Mississippi is a great state for students to become either an RN or advanced practice registered nurse (APRN).

Nurses in Mississippi also benefit from the state’s membership in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). As one of 36NLC states, Mississippi has agreed to a set of rules and procedures that all licensed RNs must follow.

The NLC makes it easier for Mississippi RNs to work in another state with minimal paperwork. Nurses with an NLC license also do not have to pay license renewal fees, and they can provide telehealth nursing care to patients across state lines.

At $61,250, the average annual RN salary in Mississippi is lower compared to all but two other states, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Nurse practitioners (NPs) in Mississippi fare better, earning $109,550.

While nurses in the state earn less than the majority of the country, Mississippi’s residents benefit from the lowest cost of living of all 50 states. Earnings can go much farther than in areas with a higher cost of living.

Like most other states, Mississippi also expects an increase in the demand for nurses. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, Mississippi ranks 34th in demand, with a projected 6% employment growth from 2018-2028. However, projections may change due to COVID-19, as nurses leave the field or retire due to exhaustion fueled by the pandemic.

The highest-paying cities in Mississippi are located in the more densely populated areas, such as the state’s capital of Jackson. Nurses employed here earn the highest average salary.

The cities south and east of the capital round out the best-paying locations. With the northern part of the state being less populated, central cities down toward the Gulf of Mexico provide the best salaries.

To become an RN or an APRN in Mississippi, prospective nurses should complete a program approved by the state’s Institutions of Higher Learning. After fulfilling certain academic requirements, those who completed an undergraduate program must pass the NCLEX-RN to apply for licensure. Nurses earning a graduate degree apply for state licensure in their chosen nursing specialty.

Both RNs and APRNs must satisfy continuing education requirements to maintain their license and continue practicing as a nurse in the state.

The cost of getting a nursing license in Mississippi varies by license. RNs pay a $100 application fee, $75 criminal background check fee, and a $200 NCLEX fee. The total cost for licensure comes to $375. A $100 renewal fee is also required every two years.

APRNs also pay a $100 application fee and a $75 criminal background check fee. The cost for their certification exam varies by specialty. They must also pay a $100 renewal fee every two years.

To become an RN in Mississippi, nurses must earn either an ADN or a BSN. Those who choose to earn their associate degree can expect to earn their RN license within two years, assuming they attend their ADN program as a full-time student.

Students who decide to earn their bachelor’s degree can expect to complete their program in four years if attending on a full-time basis.

According to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, 88.5% of nurses in 2020 passed the NCLEX-RN on their first attempt. The national average of RN test-takers who passed on their first attempt was 86.6%, putting Mississippi’s pass rate above the national average.

While many states allow nurses to take the exam an unlimited number of times, Mississippi gives nursing candidates six attempts to pass the NCLEX exam within two years of graduation with at least 45 days in between retakes.