Nursing in Nebraska

Nursing education programs in Nebraska are primarily centered around the Omaha and Lincoln areas, where most schools and major healthcare employers are located. While there are 29 nursing schools statewide, they are clustered around urban centers, especially within Douglas and Lancaster counties. Rural Nebraska sees fewer options.

Nebraska holds an average NCLEX pass rate of about 90.8% for registered nurses, with rates ranging from 86.3% to 95.2%. This rate has improved steadily over recent years. High-performing schools tend to be public institutions tied to community colleges or universities, while for-profit nursing programs have struggled with lower pass rates and program quality issues.

The state participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact, allowing nurses licensed in Nebraska to practice in other compact member states without applying for additional licenses. As of 2026, neighboring states such as Iowa, South Dakota, and Missouri are compact members with Nebraska. This facilitates mobility for nurses, but job availability still varies significantly by region.

Employment-wise, approximately 22,870 registered nurses work in Nebraska. The job market shows moderate demand with particular shortages in rural areas and for specialized roles like nurse practitioners (NPs) and certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs). Salaries reflect local cost of living differences: the average RN salary is $79,780 annually but ranges from about $61,770 in rural or entry-level roles to nearly $99,410 in urban hospitals or specialty fields. Advanced practice nurses earn more, with NPs averaging $121,680 and CRNAs over $210,000. The state’s cost of living is roughly 10% below the national average, making salaries generally competitive but less so in higher-cost Omaha neighborhoods.

Tuition costs vary by program type and institution. Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs at community colleges cost between $6,500 and $10,000 for the entire program, while ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) programs average $8,000 to $15,000. BSN degrees at public universities run $20,000 to $30,000, with private schools charging $30,000 to $45,000 or more. Community colleges offer more affordable routes but often with heavier competition for slots. Prospective students should weigh these costs alongside local living expenses when selecting programs.

Major healthcare employers like CHI Health, Nebraska Medicine, and Bryan Health dominate the job market in the Omaha-Lincoln corridor. These systems influence where education programs concentrate and where graduates find jobs. In rural parts of Nebraska, critical shortages remain a challenge despite increased educational outreach.

This page will guide you through nursing programs in Nebraska by type, including LPN, ADN, BSN, and accelerated BSN options. It also provides clear NCLEX pass rate trends comparing state averages to national benchmarks. Scholarships and financial aid specific to Nebraska nursing students are included to support your education choices.