Nursing Schools in Idaho
Idaho offers a focused yet comprehensive landscape for aspiring nurses. With 12 nursing schools across the state, prospective students will find pathways to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), Registered Nurses (RNs) through an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), or pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
Among the institutions offering nursing programs, some of the most recognized include Boise State University, Idaho State University, and Lewis-Clark State College. Each institution provides its own unique approach to nursing education, preparing graduates for a fulfilling career in healthcare.
The financial aspect of pursuing a nursing education in Idaho varies depending on the chosen path. LPN programs typically cost between $4,000 and $15,000, while ADN programs range from $10,000 to $25,000. For a BSN degree, students should expect to invest between $18,000 and $35,000, depending on the institution and program structure.
Idaho, like many other states, faces a nursing shortage, impacting healthcare delivery across the state. To address this challenge, Idaho has implemented initiatives to attract and retain nurses, including loan forgiveness programs and efforts to expand nursing program capacities.
Despite the shortage, the demand for qualified nurses in Idaho translates into competitive salaries. Registered Nurses in Idaho earn a median annual salary of $83,090, while Licensed Practical Nurses earn around $54,600.
For those interested in learning more about the specific nursing programs available in Idaho, we invite you to explore our comprehensive list of nursing schools. This resource provides detailed information on program structures, admission criteria, and estimated costs, assisting prospective students in making informed decisions about their nursing education journey.
Top RN Programs in Idaho
Available Programs
Idaho State University was founded in 1901 and now offers more than 250 programs across several campuses. It is a research university with a major focus on health sciences. Students from various health-related professional programs regularly complete their clinical work at the ISU Health Center, which treats over 10,000 students each year. The ISU Career Path Internship (CPI) program also provides paid internships to help students earn professional experience while in school. The university maintains a low student-to-teacher ratio with just 14 students per faculty member.
The ISU College of Nursing offers many options for those interested in nursing. Along with a traditional BSN program, they offer several BSN paths including LPN to BSN and RN to BSN. They even offer an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). ISU is the only university in the state to offer a doctoral degree in nursing and they have two doctoral level programs. All programs, from the ADN to the doctoral programs, are accredited. The graduate programs are accredited through the CCNE while the associate degree program is accredited through the ACEN. These programs combine in-classroom learning and online learning, providing more flexibility to students. The clinical experiences are provided by both state-of-the-art simulation labs and hands-on work at off-campus hospitals and health facilities.
