Best Nursing Schools in the Midwest in 2024 (Online & On-Campus)

The Midwest offers diverse options for living and education from Chicago on the Great Lakes to the great plains of Minnesota whether prospective students are seeking a bustling metropolitan city or a quiet agricultural institution, the Midwest has it all and everything in between. Some of the nations’ top-ranked research universities, most diverse colleges, and globally recognized institutions are among the numerous schools for higher learning in the Midwest. Some of the world’s best nursing schools in the Midwest are among these institutions. The research has already been done to identify which schools provide the best nursing education for new and seasoned nursing professionals to advance their careers to the most rewarding level. The average nursing professional earns an average of $60K for entry-level nurses and over $200K for advanced nurses holding a DNP, truly the opportunities are limitless with the high demand of qualified, well-educated nurses. From nursing schools in Michigan to nursing programs in Ohio to schools in Illinois, you’ll be sure to find a program that excels in the midwest.

List of the best nursing schools in the Midwest for 2024

1. University of Michigan

Founded in 1817 in Detroit, the University of Michigan is the oldest institution for higher learning in the state of Michigan. Michigan is ranked as the first public university in the country and fifteenth in the world. Michigan is also one of the most affordable institutions in the country with 25% of students receiving financial aid covering their entire tuition and 60% receiving a large amount of financial aid. Nursing students have access to top-quality education and real-life experience and hands-on research with Michigan’s best hospital and Children’s hospital on campus. Each of the degree programs advances clinical practice, leadership, and research in the nursing profession. The school of nursing offers bachelor’s, masters and doctoral degrees. Each of these degrees has been ranked among the top 25 in the country and is fully accredited by the CCNE.

At A Glance

• Location: Ann Arbor, MI
• Tuition: $14,402
• Graduation Rate: 91%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 15:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 11
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 98.59%

2. Mount Saint Joseph University

Students of Mount Saint Joseph University receive a high quality interdisciplinary liberal arts foundation that pushes them to think outside their primary major to make connections with various subject matter. Nursing students greatly benefit from the experiential model of learning with hands-on experience blended with nursing theory and evidence-based curriculum. Magellan School of Nursing offers the shortest college path for students desiring to enter the profession of nursing. Students learn patient-centered care in state of the art facilities with faculty that is dedicated to their individual student’s success as future nursing leaders and professionals.

At A Glance

• Location: Cincinnati, OH
• Tuition: $28,300
• Graduation Rate: 54%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 11:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 6
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 99%

3. University of Wisconsin Madison

Founded the same year Wisconsin earned statehood, the University of Wisconsin Madison is the official institution for higher learning in Wisconsin. University of Wisconsin has graduated many diverse professionals, whether they be satirical writers or founders of Earth Day UW graduates are ready to make a difference. The nurses that graduate from UW are prepared to lead in health care collaboration and leadership due to the many partnerships available in the community for students to hone their practical nursing skills. As the top nursing school in Wisconsin UW offers state of the art facilities, faculty that mentors each student and life-long learning opportunities to advance their careers and the general health and well-being of their communities.

At A Glance

• Location: Madison, WI
• Tuition: $10,488
• Graduation Rate: 84%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 17:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 5
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97%

4. Case Western Reserve University

One of the best research universities in the nation, Case Western Reserve University has been graduating the nation’s top health care professionals since 1826. Case Western offers more than just cutting-edge research opportunities, there are ranked athletics programs, international arts and a diverse student body dedicated to excellence. Graduates of the Francis Payne Bolton School of Nursing are dynamic health care thinkers that have opportunities to participate in cutting edge research. FPB has a strong focus on nursing leadership making it the top nursing program in the world for gaining national and global leadership skills and opportunities in the nursing profession. With 31 nursing degrees, Case Western is one of the best nursing programs in the Midwest.

At A Glance

• Location: Cleveland, OH
• Tuition: $46,006
• Graduation Rate: 81%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 11:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 31
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100%

5. Ohio State University

Home to world-class graduate and undergraduate programs, Ohio State University is the highest-ranked public university in Ohio. With one of the most ethnically friendly and inclusive campuses in the country, the Buckeyes thrive on diversity and has a place for every student to excel. Currently, the BSN program is ranked first in the country with the MSN program ranking fourth. Nursing students receive a world-class education preparing them for leadership in nursing. With Ohio States’ excellent research, nursing students learn the most up to date evidence-based nursing theory and practices while earning their degree. With evidence-based practice, nurses can improve both the quality and safety of nursing practice.

At A Glance

• Location: Columbus, OH
• Tuition: $10,037
• Graduation Rate: 84%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 19:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 3
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 92%

6. University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

One of the most prestigious public universities in the nation, University of Minnesota –Twin Cities offers unique opportunities for students to work alongside faculty members assisting with world-renowned research. The School of Nursing has ranked among the top in the country across the board in many areas, such as providing on the of the top DNP programs in the nation, being the first institution to offer a DNP in nurse anesthesia and nurse informatics. Aspiring nursing professionals have many specialties to choose from to enrich their study and advance their careers in the healthcare industry.

At A Glance

• Location: Minneapolis, MN
• Tuition: $14,142
• Graduation Rate: 78%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 17:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 9
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96%

7. Saint Louis University

As one of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious Catholic Universities, Saint Louis University believes in educating the whole person, mind, body, and spirit. With another campus in Madrid, Spain SLU offers world-class education and life-changing research. Nursing graduates can have the required strength and compassion to provide unparalleled care to their patients and their communities. SLU was the pioneer institution to create and provide a completely online BSN and MSN program for nursing professionals seeking to advance their education while continuing their careers.

At A Glance

• Location: Saint Loui, MO
• Tuition: $40,726
• Graduation Rate: 72%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 9:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 6
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 94%

8. Michigan State University

As one of the top Green Colleges, Michigan State University offers inclusion and intercultural initiatives. As an institution that pushes boundaries of discovery and research while forming enduring partnerships with other organizations both in the community and globally, MSU offers a truly unique educational experience for each student that attends. The college of nursing is committed to working with professional and educational partners to pioneer new pathways for the future of the nursing profession. Nursing collaboration includes education, research, practice and community outreach.

At A Glance

• Location: East Lansing, MI
• Tuition: $14,062
• Graduation Rate: 79%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 16:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 3
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97%

9. Purdue University

Purdue University has had a long history with athletics and the sciences alike after the institution opened in 1872. Purdue has long been a top research university that has driven engineering and STEM careers to new heights. Ranked among the top schools for graduate programs in nursing in the nation, Purdue graduates directly impact the health and delivery of nursing care. Students work alongside other nursing professionals and experts from other disciplines to build a collaborative environment to further the cause of healing and prevention among individuals and communities.

At A Glance

• Location: West Lafayette, IN
• Tuition: $10,002
• Graduation Rate: 73%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 13:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 6
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95%

10. Loyola University

As one of the largest Catholic institutions in the country, Loyola University has been in operation since 1870. Whether it is the lakefront property that entices you to come for a tour or the quality education that each student receives, 97% of students that come to see end up staying. Students of the Niehoff school of nursing have opportunities locally and internationally to practice their skills and give aid to those in need. Those aspiring to become nursing professionals have many different paths to achieve that dream. Loyola offers traditional and hybrid programs to enable all students to earn their BSN in as little time as possible.

At A Glance

• Location: Chicago, IL
• Tuition: $42,032
• Graduation Rate: 73%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 11:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 24
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96%

11. St. Catherine University

As one of the first institutions to provide higher education for women, St. Catherine University continues to empower women to lead and to influence others in their community and the world. Students benefit from the unique women-centered learning and the inclusivity provided by the institution. Preparing professional nurses for over 80 years, St. Kate continues to offer comprehensive nursing instruction that transforms students and those they care for. Nursing students work alongside professionals and learn the technical skills necessary for their success.

At A Glance

• Location: Saint Paul, MN
• Tuition: $36,820
• Graduation Rate: 54%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 11:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 8
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97%

12. Lewis University

Offering a values-centered curriculum, Lewis University is a private Roman Catholic institution that is home to a highly regarded aviation program. Lewis nursing students stand out from others with their ability to give compassionate care while respecting the dignity of each patient. Graduates gain necessary skills in the state of the art simulation labs and through real-life clinical experiences at various health care settings throughout the community. Graduates become innovative leaders in the nursing profession.

At A Glance

• Location: Romeoville, IL
• Tuition: $30,050
• Graduation Rate: 62%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 13:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 7
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96%

13. University of Iowa

Ranked among the top 5% of universities in the world, the University of Iowa in part because of its being home to the world’s most acclaimed medical center. As an international institution with students from all over the country and world attending, the University of Iowa is a very diverse and inclusive institution. Home to one of America’s best hospitals, aspiring nursing professionals learn from the best there is through faculty mentoring as well as collaborative learning in the community alongside other healthcare professionals. The nursing programs provide the most current and best research available as well as flexible learning options with state of the art facilities for all levels of nurses.

At A Glance

• Location: Iowa City, IA
• Tuition: $8,575
• Graduation Rate: 70%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 15:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 22
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 98%

14. University of Nebraska Medical Center

Serving the state of Nebraska and beyond, the University of Nebraska Medical Center exists to find cures and treatments for humanity’s diseased ailments. An institution dedicated to medical purposes through educating and training the next generation of healthcare professionals to provide the best care for patients and communities. The standard that sets UNMC apart is excellence in education and excellence in patient-centered care. The nursing school has a culture of leadership and along with professional and scholarly growth for each student

At A Glance

• Location: Omaha, NE
• Tuition: $7,920
• Graduation Rate: 95%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 7:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 5
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96%

15. University of Missouri Columbia

As one of the top ten universities for undergraduate research, the University of Missouri-Columbia stands out among undergraduate institutions while offering ranked graduate programs as well. The Sinclair school of nursing is affiliated with both the University of Missouri and the University of Missouri Healthcare. With groundbreaking research being performed by faculty members and students, promoting healthcare is the primary focus. Nursing students learn to think critically and provide compassionate care through the most current nursing theories and practices.

At A Glance

• Location: Columbia, MO
• Tuition: $9,518
• Graduation Rate: 95%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 17:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 6
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 94%

16. Grand Valley State University

With over 90% of students receiving financial aid, Grand Valley State University continues to help students gain crucial experience in providing advanced nursing care. The Kirkhof College of Nursing is repeatedly ranked among the top for outstanding education, scholarship, service, and practice. Fully accredited by the CCNE, KCON prepares graduates to develop reciprocal collaborations to improve health administration for individuals. Students participate in research to enhance healthcare delivery and nursing theory.

At A Glance

• Location: Allendale, MI
• Tuition: $11,520
• Graduation Rate: 65%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 16:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 5
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90%

17. Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing and Allied Health

A private Methodist institution, Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing and Allied Health is among the best healthcare institutions in the nation. NMC recognizes that a career in nursing provides unlimited opportunities and growth for students’ future careers. With over 120 years of experience graduating successful nursing professionals, NMC ranks among the top institutions for educating and preparing nurses.

At A Glance

• Location: Omaha, NE
• Tuition: $13,802
• Graduation Rate: 77%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 14:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 6
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 98%

18. Webster University

A private institution, Webster University offers a unique learning environment with multiple campuses and a robust online learning community. Students receive a personal mentor that helps them navigate and select coursework that will meet both educational and career goals. The learning opportunities are as diverse as the students that attend, with Webster ranking first for student mobility. Webster offers a collaborative cohort for health care institutions to allow nurses of the same clinic or hospital to advance their education in the same cohort. This among other forward-thinking ways of collaborating with healthcare providers sets Webster apart from other institutions.

At A Glance

• Location: Saint Louis, MO
• Tuition: $26,300
• Graduation Rate: 64%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 8:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 4
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 92%

19. Ohio University

The first university chartered by the Congress Confederation, Ohio University has been educating students since 1809. A student-centered institution in the heart of the best college town in America, Athens. The nursing programs at Ohio are innovative and accessible through traditional, hybrid and online methods to better meet the needs of the students.

At A Glance

• Location: Athens, OH
• Tuition: $11,744
• Graduation Rate: 67%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 17:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 5
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95.9%

20. Maryville University of St. Louis

A private institution, Maryville University of St. Louis is a nationally recognized institution for higher learning. Maryville offers comprehensive, student-oriented learning to advances students’ success beyond the classroom. Living by the creed that nurses are the first responders and they need to care first and administer relief second, faculty members do just that for their students. Graduates are compassionate and well instructed to know how to administer nursing practices as well as educate individuals and families.

At A Glance

• Location: Saint Louis, MO
• Tuition: $27,985
• Graduation Rate: 66%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 14:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 10
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 94%

21. University of Illinois

Proudly distinguished as Chicago’s public research university, the University of Illinois-Chicago boasts 33K students, 16 colleges, a hospital, and a complete health sciences system. UIC is also distinguished by its ethnically and culturally diverse campuses placing high value on inclusivity. UIC provides a strong foundation of nursing theory, research-based practice, and experience honing nursing skills in state of the art lab facilities as well as hands-on clinical experience. Aspiring nurses can enroll in the BSN program that fits their needs, as there are different pathways offered to earn a BSN degree from UIC.

At A Glance

• Location: Chicago, IL
• Tuition: $13,644
• Graduation Rate: 60%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 16:8
• Number if Nursing Programs: 6
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90%

22. Winona State University

As one of the best nursing schools in the Midwest, Winona State University is also one of the most affordable colleges with 94% of freshmen receiving financial aid. Originally founded to educate teachers, Winona has grown to offer degrees in 100 areas. As nursing students learn nursing theory they greatly enhance their education through WU’s experiential learning model that allows them to gain hands-on practice of nursing skills and administration of nursing techniques.

At A Glance

• Location: Winona, MN
• Tuition: $9,075
• Graduation Rate: 58%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 19:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 14
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95%

23. University of Missouri Kansas City

An institution that takes mentorship seriously, the University of Missouri-Kansas City has a low faculty to student ratio allowing faculty to know and mentor each student. Though UMKC is in the heart of Kansas City the influence and research are known and felt worldwide. Students of the School of Nursing and Health Sciences can expect to have dedicated faculty, access to cutting edge research and opportunities to build a resume for leadership. The very location of classroom instruction, labs, and simulation shows the dedication UMKC has to assist students in interprofessional networking and collaboration.

At A Glance

• Location: Kansas City, MO
• Tuition: $7,846
• Graduation Rate: 52%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 14:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 4
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90%

24. Concordia University-Wisconsin

As a university of the Lutheran Church-Missouri System, Concordia University-Wisconsin has educated students for lives in Christian leadership since 1881. Students of CUW are part of a large learning community that brings together knowledge and Christian Faith to help each individual develop their potential. Students of the School of Nursing are prepared to excel in a complex and evolving healthcare system where they can use critical thinking skills alongside compassion to provide whole-person healing. Students participate in a rigorous liberal arts education to build a strong interprofessional foundation.

At A Glance

• Location: Mequon, WI
• Tuition: $27,900
• Graduation Rate: 49%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 12:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 6
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93%

25. Viterbo University

A private Franciscan institution, Viterbo University is firmly rooted in the liberal arts providing a large spectrum of knowledge and experience. Though it is a smaller institution than many other top-ranked universities it offers world-class education for a diverse population with a spirit of inclusivity. The school of nursing combines nursing theory and knowledge with the art of caring and compassion to create optimal outcomes for each individual, family, and community. With small class sizes, student receives personal mentorships during their time at Viterbo.

At A Glance

• Location: La Crosse, WI
• Tuition: $26,150
• Graduation Rate: 49%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 11:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 11
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95%

26. Minnesota State University Mankato

A public institution, Minnesota State University-Mankato offers a diverse and inclusive experience. The school of nursing offers both undergraduate and graduate programs for aspiring nurses and those seeking to advance their careers through higher education. With a 16,000 square foot simulation center, students gain practical skills in a safe environment. Students will be able to administer high-quality care to individuals of all ages.

At A Glance

• Location: Mankato, MN
• Tuition: $7,858
• Graduation Rate: 51%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 22:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 7
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96%

27. Cleveland State University

A public research institution, Cleveland State University has consistently ranked among the top universities in the nation. The students of CSU are engaged in their learning experience with the many internships and community partnerships available through the school. With faculty that has conducted cutting-edge research, students are mentored by top professionals that are leaders in their field. CSU students also participate in life-changing service programs where they practice their skills, receive mentoring from professionals and network with other healthcare providers.

At A Glance

• Location: Cleveland, OH
• Tuition: $9,768
• Graduation Rate: 62%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 17:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 3
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90%

28. Bryan College of Health Sciences

Known for its outstanding healthcare in nursing, Bryan College of Health Sciences prepares graduates for excellence. Students receive a high-quality education with nursing theory and individual mentoring. State of the art labs and simulation exercises prepare students to be confident during the many hours they participate in clinical practice. The numbers of hours students train at Bryan College is unparalleled to any other nursing school in the Midwest.

At A Glance

• Location: Lincoln, NE
• Tuition: $14,636
• Graduation Rate: 73%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 9:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 4
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 99%

29. Indiana Wesleyan University Marion

The largest private university in Indiana, Indiana Wesleyan University-Marion is an evangelical Christian institution for higher learning. Known as one of the best Master’s universities in the Midwest, Indiana Wesleyan also offers outstanding undergraduate programs. Students of Wesleyan’s school of nursing are not just motivated by the high earning potential of a career in nursing but also by caring and invested mentors of the profession. Graduates are prepared to enter as leaders in a complex career in a variety of venues needing their expertise and training.

At A Glance

• Location: Marion, IN
• Tuition: $25,346
• Graduation Rate: 65%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 13:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 12
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 94.9%

30. Mount Carmel College of Nursing

A private, specialized Catholic college dedicated to educating nursing professionals, Mount Carmel College of Nursing for more than 115 years. With smaller class sizes, students receive more individual mentoring from faculty that are experts in the field of nursing and healthcare. Originally opening to educate nurses to assist in the Mount Carmel hospital that opened to serve the community in 1886. Graduates can administer excellence, compassionate nursing techniques and maintain social responsibility.

At A Glance

• Location: Columbus, OH
• Tuition: $12,673
• Graduation Rate: 78%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 10:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 11
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93%

31. University of Michigan Flint

Students of the University of Michigan-Flint enjoy unique opportunities to engage in the community while engaging their future through fieldwork, hands-on experiences, service and more. UM, Flint stands out as an affordable institution for higher learning and ranked among the best in the Midwest. The school of nursing is fully accredited by the CCNE and offers a variety of pathways for students to earn an undergraduate or graduate degree in nursing with some very flexible class options.

At A Glance

• Location: Flint, MI
• Tuition: $10,344
• Graduation Rate: 34%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 14:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 5
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: Not Currently Available

32. University of Missouri-St. Louis

The largest institution for higher learning in St. Louis, University of Missouri-St. Louis consistently ranked among the top for excellent undergraduate and graduate programs. The school of nursing at UMSL is proud to educate future nurses, scientists, researchers, and leaders in the healthcare community. Graduates facilitate professional advancement in their community through innovative collaborative efforts and excellent leadership.

At A Glance

• Location: St. Louis, MO
• Tuition: $9,394
• Graduation Rate: 59%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 19:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 6
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 87%

33. University of Toledo

A student-centered university, University of Toledo is in the heart of metropolitan Toledo, Ohio. Students have access to a variety of classes and pathways to accomplish their goals, whether they need traditional full-time courses, part-time or evening classes. The school of nursing has a cutting-edge, interprofessional clinical simulation center where students gain practical skills. As a leader in nursing education, the University of Toledo offers a variety of nursing programs and specializations.

At A Glance

• Location: Toledo, OH
• Tuition: $9,547
• Graduation Rate: 44%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 20:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 18
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 87%

34. University of Cincinnati

Those looking for a balance of educational excellence and real-world experience will find just that at the University of Cincinnati. It comes as no surprise that UC is ranked among the top tier of the best national universities in the country. With the growing need for nursing professionals, graduates from UC are positioned to grow and lead the transformation of health care. UC has been providing a diverse and culturally competent nursing graduates for over 130 years. These nursing professionals can provide compassionate, well-educated, precise care for patients, their families, and the community.

At A Glance

• Location: Cincinnati, OH
• Tuition: $11,000
• Graduation Rate: 62%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 16:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 20
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 83%

35. University of Southern Indiana

A public liberal arts college, the University of Southern Indiana offers comprehensive programs across 130 different areas. As a Carnegie Foundation Community Engages University that offers numerous outreach programs for continuing engagement. The nursing program has an outstanding history of graduates receiving excellent pass rates and future success as nursing professionals. Faculty are experts in their fields and offer excellent mentorship.

At A Glance

• Location: Evansville, IN
• Tuition: $7,605
• Graduation Rate: 41%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 16:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 3
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96%

36. University of Wisconsin Milwaukee

Where students learn alongside professors in laboratories as well as lecture halls, the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee prepares graduates to emerge as leaders. The institution has partnerships with numerous clinics, hospitals, and many other professional entities. The nursing school is fully accredited by the CCNE offering both undergraduate and graduate programs that are among the top in the nation.

At A Glance

• Location: Milwaukee, WI
• Tuition: $9,493
• Graduation Rate: 44%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 18:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 4
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 86%

37. Wayne State University

A premier institution in Detroit, Wayne State University offers athletic programs, student-lead organizations and more. The nursing program at Wayne State prepares students for a unique role as nursing professionals that can tackle unique challenges that face large metropolitan cities, such as Detroit. The nursing program also exists to confront the disparities that exist between diverse populations. Graduates have the training to sensitively address these unique challenges and have clinical opportunities to practice their skills in the community.

At A Glance

• Location: Detroit, MI
• Tuition: $12,269
• Graduation Rate: 34%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 16:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 20
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 94%

38. University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire

Ranked among the top 5 universities in the region, the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire prepares graduates to emerge as leaders. The institution has partnerships with numerous clinics, hospitals, and many other professional entities. The nursing school is fully accredited by the CCNE offering both undergraduate and graduate programs that are among the top in the nation.

At A Glance

• Location: Eau Claire, WI
• Tuition: $8,812
• Graduation Rate: 68%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 22:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 3
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95%

39. North Dakota State University

A distinctive land grant institution that is student-focused, North Dakota State University has continued to rank as a top research university as well. Programs at North Dakota State use innovative technology and prepares students for their future. The nursing program offers opportunities and flexibility. The program is fully accredited by the CCNE and students are also offered study abroad programs along with their conical experiences.

At A Glance

• Location: Fargo, North Dakota
• Tuition: $8,327
• Graduation Rate: 56%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 17:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 3
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90%

40. Bellin College

Bellin College is devoted to providing excellent education for nursing professionals. Graduates are prepared to meet the challenging demands of the complex healthcare industry. Students receive a focused curriculum and extensive hands-on practice in simulation labs to hone their skills. Clinical hours are extensive, allowing students to be confident upon graduation to practice as leaders in the nursing community.

At A Glance

• Location: Bellevue, WI
• Tuition: $25,000
• Graduation Rate: 74%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 11:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 3
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96%

41. South Dakota State University

Though students feel like they are part of the family at South Dakota State University, it offers world-class academics for those who attend. Whether students are first-time freshmen or changing careers South Dakota State has a unique nursing program to help them realize their dreams in the healthcare industry. Faculty have first-hand knowledge and experience in their specialty of nursing to better teach and mentor students.

At A Glance

• Location: Brookings, South Dakota
• Tuition: $8,172
• Graduation Rate: 57%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 17:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 7
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97%

42. Southern Illinois University

Serving students from diverse backgrounds, Southern Illinois University prides itself on being an inclusive and diverse institution. Ranked among the top five institutions for higher learning for the research done at Southern Illinois University, students have hands-on opportunities to participate in much of that research. Students in the school of nursing directly benefit from the cutting edge research being done on campus. Currently, the school of nursing offers various paths for students to earn their BSN, a traditional tack, accelerated track and a second bachelor’s degree track.

At A Glance

• Location: Carbondale, IL
• Tuition: $13,481
• Graduation Rate: 44%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 13:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 16
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 94%

43. Clarkson College

Opening as a school to prepare nurses in 1888, Clarkson College has since expanded to become a health science institution to prepare health professionals. The small, tight-knit community at Clarkson offers a very personal approach to higher education making it a socially engaging college experience. Clarkson is now one of thriving nursing colleges in the region.

At A Glance

• Location: Omaha, NE
• Tuition: $15,780
• Graduation Rate: 82%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 13:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 11
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 83%

44. Wichita State University

With a firm commitment to applied learning, Wichita State University has numerous partnerships throughout the community to better serve the needs of students attending. Among the many renovated buildings and state of the art facilities, the school of nursing has also been renovated to provide more up to date learning opportunities for students. The school of nursing is the second largest in the state of Kansas and is committed to excellence both in the classroom and in the clinics.

At A Glance

• Location: Wichita, KS
• Tuition: $7,895
• Graduation Rate: 46%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 46%
• Number if Nursing Programs: 4
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95%

45. The Christ College of Nursing and Health Sciences

Providing the community with quality nursing and health science program for over 115 years, The Christ College of Nursing and Health Sciences continues that tradition of quality education today. Students are prepared for the diversity that exists in the field of healthcare and the challenging complex questions that arise. Graduates can provide quality compassionate care for individuals and families when they need it most.

At A Glance

• Location: Cincinnati, OH
• Tuition: $15,882
• Graduation Rate: 86%
• Faculty to Student Ratio:
• Number if Nursing Programs: 2
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100%

46. Allen College

A small private college dedicated to educating healthcare professionals, Allen College has a reputation for excellence. Waterloo offers students the opportunities of a large city with the friendliness of a small town, in that atmosphere students thrive in networking and building professional connections during their time at Allen College. Allen College has had a long history of educating quality nurses for over 90 years.

At A Glance

• Location: Waterloo, IA
• Tuition: $17,796
• Graduation Rate: 96%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 8:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 14
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97%

47. Rush University

As the academic arm of Rush University Hospital, Rush University was founded on a tripartite mission. Each arm of the mission is of equal importance, the educational, clinical and research arms of the mission blend to provide students with a fully integrated nursing experience and expertise before they graduate. Students are educated by teacher-practitioners and have the opportunities to participate in current research while gaining experience through clinical on the Rush University Hospital Campus.

At A Glance

• Location: Chicago, IL
• Tuition: $25,402
• Graduation Rate: 80%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 2:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 4
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97%

48. Creighton University

A private Jesuit, Catholic institution, Creighton University is a place for those who desire to contribute something meaningful to the world. Graduates become leaders while serving others, this is very true in the field of nursing. Aspiring nurses at Creighton learn to apply the practical skills learned in the classroom to serving others with compassionate care. Graduates are at the forefront of the ever-changing field of nursing across the country.

At A Glance

• Location: Omaha, NE
• Tuition: $37,606
• Graduation Rate: 78%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 11:1
• Number if Nursing Programs: 11
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93%

Some of the world’s best research institutions are in the United States and those are some of the best nursing schools in the Midwest. Whether aspiring nurses are seeking to begin their educational career or seeking to advance it through higher education the Midwest has a vast array of institutions to prepare every student for excellence in the field of nursing. With the shortage of well-qualified nurses continuing this remains a strong field with opportunities for career advancement and satisfaction in serving the community in a way unlike any other. Browse the list of programs and enroll today to make a difference tomorrow.

The institutions for higher learning were ranked according to test pass rates, the number of nursing programs available and affordability. Every program is fully accredited through either the CCEN or ACEN.

Methodology