Best Nursing Programs in West Des Moines, Iowa - RN, BSN, LPN, CRNA, CNA, NP, DNP, LVN Programs

West Des Moines, Iowa Nursing Degree Programs

Are you searching for the best nursing schools in West Des Moines, Iowa? Whether you're starting your journey in healthcare or advancing your nursing career, finding the right nursing program is essential. In or near West Des Moines, Iowa, you’ll find a range of accredited nursing programs, from entry-level certificates to advanced nursing degrees.

Nursing offers many career paths, including Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Registered Nurse (RN), and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) roles. Depending on your goals, you can pursue an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), or even a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).

Explore nursing schools in West Des Moines, Iowa to choose the right program for your future in nursing.

West Des Moines, Iowa Nursing Degree Programs

RN to BSN Programs in West Des Moines, Iowa

RN to BSN programs in West Des Moines, Iowa are tailored for registered nurses who want to expand their skills, advance in their careers, or pursue graduate education. These programs can often be completed in 12 to 18 months and focus on leadership, research, and community health. Many schools offer flexible online formats to accommodate working nurses.

RN to BSN and RN to MSN Bridge Programs by Specialization in West Des Moines, Iowa

Bridge programs in West Des Moines, Iowa provide registered nurses with clear academic pathways to higher degrees. RN to BSN programs help build leadership and public health expertise, while RN to MSN bridge programs allow for specialization in roles such as family nurse practitioner, nurse educator, or clinical nurse leader. These programs are designed to fit into the schedules of working professionals through evening, weekend, and online formats.

Top Nursing Programs

Mercy College of Health Sciences Nursing Programs in Des Moines, Iowa
Grand View University Nursing Programs in Des Moines, Iowa
Des Moines Area Community College ADN, BSN, CNS, CRNA, LPN, NP, RN, RN to BSN Nursing Programs in Ankeny, Iowa
Iowa State University ADN, BSN, RN Nursing Programs in Ames, Iowa
Southwestern Community College ADN, BSN, LPN, RN Nursing Programs in Creston, Iowa

Top Nursing Programs Near West Des Moines, Iowa

Clive	Cumming	Windsor Heights	Waukee	Norwalk
Urbandale	Van Meter	Grimes	Des Moines	Johnston
Spring Hill	De Soto	Saylorville	Martensdale	Adel
Bevington	Dallas Center	Pleasant Hill	Patterson	Granger

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What types of nursing programs are available in West Des Moines, Iowa?

Nursing schools in West Des Moines, Iowa offer various programs, including:

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) programs – Entry-level training for nursing assistants.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) programs – Typically one year of training.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) – A two-year program that prepares you for the NCLEX-RN exam and RN licensure.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – A four-year degree that provides more career opportunities and higher earning potential.
RN-to-BSN programs – Designed for current RNs who want to earn a BSN.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Advanced education for specialized nursing roles, such as nurse practitioner or nurse educator.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) – The highest level of clinical nursing education.

2. How do I choose the best nursing school in West Des Moines, Iowa?

When selecting a nursing school, consider factors like accreditation, NCLEX pass rates, clinical training opportunities, tuition costs, and program flexibility (online, hybrid, or in-person).

3. Why is nursing school accreditation important?

Accreditation ensures your program meets high educational standards. Nursing programs should be accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Attending an accredited school is required for licensure and financial aid eligibility.

4. How do I check if a nursing program in West Des Moines, Iowa is accredited?

You can verify accreditation by visiting the school’s website, checking the ACEN or CCNE directories, or contacting the State Board of Nursing in West Des Moines, Iowa.

5. How long does it take to complete a nursing program?

The duration depends on the type of program:

CNA program: A few weeks to a few months.
LPN/LVN program: About 12 months.
ADN program: 2 years.
BSN program: 4 years.
RN-to-BSN program: 12-24 months.
MSN program: 2 years (after BSN).
DNP program: 3-4 years.

6. Can I complete a nursing program online?

Some programs, such as RN-to-BSN, MSN, and DNP, offer online coursework. However, pre-licensure programs (like ADN and BSN) require in-person clinical training.

7. What is the NCLEX, and why is it important?

The NCLEX-PN (for LPNs) and NCLEX-RN (for RNs) are national exams required for licensure. Graduating from an accredited program is necessary to sit for these exams.

8. What financial aid options are available for nursing students?

Students enrolled in accredited nursing programs may qualify for:

Federal financial aid (Pell Grants, loans, and work-study programs).
State grants and scholarships.
Nursing-specific scholarships.
Employer tuition assistance programs.

9. What are the job opportunities for nurses in West Des Moines, Iowa?

Nurses in West Des Moines, Iowa can work in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, home healthcare, and specialized care facilities. Advanced degrees open opportunities in leadership, education, and specialized nursing roles like nurse practitioner or nurse anesthetist.

10. How much do nurses earn in West Des Moines, Iowa?

Salaries vary based on education, experience, and location. On average:

CNA: $30,000 – $40,000 per year.
LPN/LVN: $45,000 – $55,000 per year.
RN (ADN or BSN): $65,000 – $90,000 per year.
MSN-prepared nurses: $90,000 – $120,000 per year.
Nurse practitioners and APRNs: $100,000 – $150,000 per year.