Are you searching for the best nursing schools in Kansas City, Missouri? Whether you're starting your journey in healthcare or advancing your nursing career, finding the right nursing program is essential. In or near Kansas City, Missouri, you’ll find a range of accredited nursing programs, from entry-level certificates to advanced nursing degrees.
Explore nursing schools in Kansas City, Missouri to choose the right program for your future in nursing.
Kansas City, Missouri Nursing Degree Programs
RN to BSN Programs in Kansas City, Missouri
RN to BSN programs in Kansas City, Missouri 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 Kansas City, Missouri
Bridge programs in Kansas City, Missouri 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.
Research College of Nursing Accelerated BSN, BSN, FNP, MSN, RN Nursing Programs in Kansas City, Missouri
BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing): Provides a comprehensive foundation in nursing principles, clinical skills, and patient care, preparing graduates for entry-level RN positions.
Accelerated BSN: A faster-paced program designed for individuals with a bachelor's degree in another field, allowing them to earn a BSN in a shorter timeframe (typically 12-18 months).
MSN (Master of Science in Nursing): Offers advanced training and specialization in areas like leadership, education, or specific clinical roles. Often includes concentrations like Nurse Educator or Nurse Leader.
FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner): A type of MSN program preparing nurses to provide primary care services to individuals and families across the lifespan, often including diagnosing and treating illnesses and prescribing medications (depending on state regulations).
RN (Registered Nurse): While not a degree program *per se*, all of the BSN, Accelerated BSN, and MSN programs will ultimately prepare a student to become a Registered Nurse upon passing the NCLEX-RN exam. The term is sometimes used in the context of an RN-BSN completion program.
Focus on Evidence-Based Practice: Programs commonly emphasize the importance of using research and evidence to inform clinical decision-making.
Clinical Experience: All programs will emphasize clinical hours/experience and simulations to allow students to implement and develop necessary patient care skills.
Nursing Schools in Kansas City, Missouri
Address: 2525 E. Meyer Boulevard, Kansas City, Missouri 64132
Rockhurst University Accelerated BSN, BSN, FNP, MSN, NP, Nursing Admin/Leadership, Nursing Certificate, PMHNP, RN, RN to BSN Nursing Programs in Kansas City, Missouri
Focus on Jesuit values of social justice and ethical practice, integrating these principles into nursing education.
Strong emphasis on clinical experience, likely partnering with prominent healthcare systems in the Kansas City area.
Potential for specialized tracks or concentrations within MSN programs, such as Nurse Education or Informatics, in addition to Advanced Practice roles.
Faculty comprised of experienced nurses and educators, potentially including researchers and practitioners with active involvement in the healthcare community.
RN to BSN programs designed for working nurses, often offering flexible online or hybrid formats.
Accelerated BSN programs for individuals with bachelor's degrees in other fields, allowing a faster path to becoming a registered nurse.
Graduate programs (MSN, NP, PMHNP, Nursing Admin/Leadership) typically incorporate advanced coursework in pathophysiology, pharmacology, and advanced health assessment.
Nursing Schools in Kansas City, Missouri
Address: 1100 Rockhurst Rd, Kansas City, Missouri 64110-2561
Metropolitan Community College-Kansas City Nursing Programs in Kansas City, Missouri
Comprehensive curriculum covering nursing fundamentals, medical-surgical nursing, maternal-newborn nursing, pediatrics, and mental health nursing.
Extensive clinical experience in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health organizations.
Focus on developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills essential for effective nursing practice.
Emphasis on patient-centered care, evidence-based practice, and ethical decision-making.
Dedicated faculty with expertise in various nursing specialties providing individualized support and mentorship.
NCLEX-RN preparation integrated throughout the program, including practice exams, review sessions, and test-taking strategies.
High job placement rates for graduates in a variety of healthcare settings.
Nursing Schools in Kansas City, Missouri
Address: 3200 Broadway, Kansas City, Missouri 64111-2429
Concorde Career College-Kansas City BSN Nursing Programs in Kansas City, Missouri
Focuses on practical, hands-on training to prepare graduates for direct patient care.
Emphasizes critical thinking and clinical judgment skills necessary for effective nursing practice.
Curriculum includes a strong foundation in sciences, nursing theory, and clinical experience.
Prepares graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN examination and become licensed Registered Nurses (RNs).
May offer flexible scheduling options or accelerated pathways to accommodate different student needs.
Clinical rotations typically take place in diverse healthcare settings across the Kansas City area, providing exposure to a wide range of patient populations and specialties.
May offer career services support to assist graduates with job placement after graduation.
Nursing Schools in Kansas City, Missouri
Address: 3239 Broadway St., Kansas City, Missouri 64111
Avila University Accelerated BSN, BSN, Nursing Admin/Leadership, RN Nursing Programs in Kansas City, Missouri
Emphasis on Jesuit values: Avila University likely integrates ethical considerations and compassionate care into its nursing programs.
Clinical experience in Kansas City: Programs offer opportunities for hands-on clinical rotations in diverse healthcare settings across the Kansas City metropolitan area.
Preparation for NCLEX-RN: The BSN and Accelerated BSN programs are designed to adequately prepare students for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam.
Leadership Development: The Nursing Administration/Leadership programs focus on developing skills necessary for management and leadership roles within healthcare.
Career Advancement Opportunities: Programs provide pathways for nurses to advance their careers through specialization, leadership roles, or further education.
Strong Alumni Network: Benefit from connections to Avila's nursing alumni network, fostering mentorship and job opportunities.
Nursing Schools in Kansas City, Missouri
Address: 11901 Wornall Rd, Kansas City, Missouri 64145-1698
1. What types of nursing programs are available in Kansas City, Missouri?
Nursing schools in Kansas City, Missouri 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 Kansas City, Missouri?
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 Kansas City, Missouri 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 Kansas City, Missouri.
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 Kansas City, Missouri?
Nurses in Kansas City, Missouri 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 Kansas City, Missouri?
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.