Rhode Island stands out for its mix of small-city campuses and strong ties to major healthcare employers like Lifespan, Care New England, and South County Health. Across 13 cities, eight nursing schools offer options that fit a range of schedules and budgets. The state’s nursing programs maintain NCLEX pass rates around 87 percent, which is close to the national average. This steady pass rate reflects consistent performance but also suggests room for growth when compared to states with rates above 90 percent.
One unique advantage is Rhode Island’s membership in the Nurse Licensure Compact. This means once you earn your license here, you can work in any of the other 39 compact states without applying for new licenses, expanding your job possibilities beyond state borders.
Registered nurses earn an average of about $95,000, and licensed practical nurses make around $75,000. Advanced roles like nurse practitioners and certified nurse-midwives reach well over six figures. With around 11,350 RN jobs statewide, nursing positions are stable, though competition can be stiff near Providence and other urban centers. Rural areas have fewer openings, but access to care remains a priority.
LPN programs in the state typically cost between $5,000 and $10,000, especially at community colleges, which offer affordable pathways with solid training. ADN programs often range from $8,000 to $15,000 depending on the school. BSN programs, particularly at private colleges, may exceed $20,000 per year. The state’s small size helps limit travel or housing costs, but private tuition prices can add up quickly.
This page provides you with detailed data on programs by type, NCLEX results, and scholarships to help you make the best choices based on your career goals and budget.
Compare Rhode Island's NCLEX-RN pass rates to the national average over the years, including the number of students who took the exam.
Compare Rhode Island's NCLEX-PN pass rates to the national average over the years, including the number of students who took the exam.
Browse all nursing programs available in Rhode Island, organized by degree type. Click any program to see schools offering that program with detailed information for easy comparison.
Candidates must be residents of Newport County, and a graduate from a high school in Rhode Island. Scholarships are open to individuals accepted into, and in attendance at any accredited nursing program in Rhode Island. Students enrolled at both the Undergraduate and Graduate levels are eligible to apply. Candidates must also be sponsored by a member of the AOH or LAOH.
This scholarship is offered for students resident in Rhode Island and who Pursuing LPN, RN or advanced nursing degree.
105 Cannon Building, Three Capitol Hill
Providence, RI 02908
Mailing Address
105 Cannon Building, Three Capitol Hill
Providence, RI 02908
Phone: 401.222.5700
Fax: 401.222.3352