Nursing in Utah

Utah has about 30 nursing schools spread across 34 cities, these schools are heavily clustered along the Wasatch Front, especially in Salt Lake City, Ogden, and Provo. 

The state's nursing job market shows signs of steady demand but also growing competition, particularly in urban hospitals within the Intermountain Healthcare system, which is Utah's largest employer of nurses. Rural parts of the state continue to experience shortages, offering better hiring prospects outside the metro areas. The total number of registered nurses stands near 25,000, and new graduates typically find jobs if they are willing to be flexible in location or specialty.

The NCLEX pass rate for Utah programs averaged 84.3% in the latest reports, ranging from about 79% to nearly 89%. This rate aligns closely with the national average but reveals disparities among programs. Public universities and community colleges tend to have stronger pass rates than some for-profit schools, where educational quality and student outcomes have raised concerns. Utah’s regulatory board monitors for-profit nursing programs due to past issues with consistency in training and licensure success.

Utah is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact, allowing licensed nurses to practice across member states without applying for additional licenses. Neighboring states like Idaho and Nevada also participate, facilitating workforce mobility within the region.

Salary data shows a wide range for nursing jobs statewide. Registered nurses earn an average of about $83,100 annually, but salaries vary due to location, experience, and specialty. For example, nurses in Salt Lake City and those working in advanced practice roles earn notably more. Licensed Practical Nurses make around $57,400 on average. Utah’s cost of living is moderate compared to many states but has risen recently, especially in urban centers, which means wages may stretch differently depending on where you live. Tuition costs for nursing programs add another layer: ADN programs at community colleges cost roughly $5,000 to $10,000 annually, while BSN degrees at public universities typically range from $10,000 to $20,000 per year. Private nursing schools charge more, often exceeding $20,000 annually.

This page will help you explore nursing education options in Utah, compare programs by type and quality, and understand scholarships to offset education costs.