Are you searching for the best nursing schools in Tennessee? Whether you're starting your journey in healthcare or advancing your nursing career, finding the right nursing program is essential. In or near Tennessee, you’ll find a range of accredited nursing programs, from entry-level certificates to advanced nursing degrees.
Explore nursing schools in Tennessee to choose the right program for your future in nursing.
Tennessee Nursing Degree Programs
RN to BSN Programs in Tennessee
RN to BSN programs in Tennessee 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 Tennessee
Bridge programs in Tennessee 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.
Tusculum University Nursing Programs in Greeneville, Tennessee
Comprehensive curriculum covering foundational nursing concepts, medical-surgical nursing, maternal-child health, mental health nursing, and pharmacology.
Extensive clinical experience in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health organizations.
Focus on critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills essential for safe and effective nursing practice.
Emphasis on patient-centered care, cultural sensitivity, and ethical considerations in nursing.
Dedicated NCLEX-RN preparation integrated throughout the program, including review courses, practice exams, and personalized support.
Opportunities to participate in simulation labs to practice clinical skills in a safe and controlled environment.
Strong career outlook with high demand for Registered Nurses in various healthcare specialties.
Vanderbilt University BSN, DNP, MSN, NP, Nurse Educator, Nursing Certificate, PhD, RN Nursing Programs in Nashville, Tennessee
Offers a variety of pathways for nurses at different career stages, from entry-level BSN to advanced practice DNP and PhD.
Emphasis on evidence-based practice, research, and leadership skills across all programs.
Strong clinical partnerships with Vanderbilt University Medical Center and other leading healthcare institutions in the Nashville area, providing diverse clinical experiences.
NP programs typically offer specializations in areas such as acute care, family, pediatrics, and women's health.
MSN programs prepare nurses for advanced roles, including nurse educators, administrators, and clinical specialists.
PhD program focuses on developing nurse scientists who can lead research and advance the nursing profession.
Nursing certificate programs provide specialized training in specific areas of nursing practice.
Nursing Schools in Nashville, Tennessee
Address: 2101 West End Avenue, Nashville, Tennessee 37240
Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Harriman Nursing Programs in Harriman, Tennessee
Comprehensive curriculum encompassing anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, mental health nursing, and maternal-newborn nursing.
Extensive clinical experience in diverse healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health organizations.
Emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills necessary for providing safe and competent patient care.
Dedicated faculty with real-world nursing experience providing personalized instruction and mentorship.
NCLEX-RN preparation integrated throughout the program, including practice exams and review sessions.
Focus on ethical and legal considerations in nursing practice.
Opportunities to participate in student nursing organizations and professional development activities.
Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Shelbyville Nursing Programs in Shelbyville, Tennessee
Comprehensive curriculum encompassing medical-surgical nursing, maternal-newborn nursing, pediatric nursing, 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 providing safe and effective patient care.
Emphasis on evidence-based practice and the application of research findings to nursing practice.
NCLEX-RN preparation integrated throughout the program, including practice exams and review sessions.
Opportunities to participate in simulation labs to practice skills in a safe and controlled environment.
Career outlook for Registered Nurses remains strong with opportunities available across various healthcare specialties.
Nursing Schools in Shelbyville, Tennessee
Address: 1405 Madison St, Shelbyville, Tennessee 37160-3629
Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Hartsville Nursing Programs in Hartsville, Tennessee
Comprehensive curriculum covering anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, mental health nursing, and maternal-child 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 patient care skills necessary for safe and effective nursing practice.
Emphasis on ethical and legal considerations in nursing.
Dedicated preparation for the NCLEX-RN examination, including practice exams, review sessions, and individualized support.
Opportunities to learn about current trends and best practices in nursing.
Career outlook for Registered Nurses is excellent, with high demand across Tennessee and nationwide.
Tennessee State University BSN, MSN, RN, RN to BSN Nursing Programs in Nashville, Tennessee
BSN programs provide a foundational understanding of nursing principles, preparing graduates for entry-level positions in various healthcare settings.
MSN programs offer advanced specializations, such as Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, or Nurse Administrator, enabling nurses to take on leadership roles.
RN programs (often referring to Associate Degree in Nursing, ADN programs feeding into RN licensure) focus on direct patient care and clinical skills. Schools like TSU often have partnerships with community colleges that provide ADN programs.
RN to BSN programs are designed for registered nurses with an ADN or diploma to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, enhancing their knowledge and career opportunities.
Opportunities often exist for hands-on clinical experience at Nashville's renowned medical centers and hospitals.
Programs typically integrate evidence-based practice and research principles to improve patient outcomes.
Graduates are prepared to address the diverse healthcare needs of the Nashville community and beyond.
Nursing Schools in Nashville, Tennessee
Address: 3500 John A. Merritt Blvd, Nashville, Tennessee 37209-1561
Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Hohenwald Nursing Programs in Hohenwald, Tennessee
Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, mental health nursing, and maternal-child nursing.
Extensive Clinical Experience: Gain hands-on experience in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health centers.
NCLEX-RN Preparation: Dedicated coursework, practice exams, and review sessions designed to prepare students for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
State-of-the-Art Simulation Labs: Practice essential nursing skills in a safe and controlled environment using high-fidelity simulation mannequins.
Experienced Faculty: Learn from qualified and experienced registered nurses who are passionate about teaching and mentoring future nurses.
Career Advancement Opportunities: Provides a foundation for further education, such as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
In-Demand Career: Registered nurses are highly sought after professionals with excellent job prospects.
Nursing Schools in Hohenwald, Tennessee
Address: 813 West Main, Hohenwald, Tennessee 38462-2201
Tennessee Wesleyan University Accelerated BSN, BSN, CNM, CNS, CRNA, MSN, NP, RN Nursing Programs in Athens, Tennessee
BSN programs (traditional and accelerated) are cornerstone offerings, preparing students for RN licensure and entry-level nursing positions.
MSN programs cater to RNs seeking advanced roles like Nurse Practitioner (NP), Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), or Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM).
NP specializations within MSN programs often include Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP), and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP).
CRNA programs are highly specialized, requiring rigorous coursework and clinical experience to prepare nurses to administer anesthesia. (Note: CRNA programs are often offered in collaboration with other institutions due to resource intensity).
Accelerated BSN programs provide a fast track for individuals with non-nursing bachelor's degrees to enter the nursing profession.
BSN programs usually offer clinical rotations in various healthcare settings throughout the region, providing diverse practical experience.
NCLEX-RN preparation is integrated into both BSN and Accelerated BSN curricula to ensure students are well-prepared for the licensure exam.
Nursing Schools in Athens, Tennessee
Address: 204 East College Street, Athens, Tennessee 37303
The University of Tennessee Health Science Center Accelerated BSN, BSN, CRNA, DNP, FNP, MSN, NP, Nursing Certificate, PhD, RN Nursing Programs in Memphis, Tennessee
Offers various entry points into nursing, from RN to PhD, catering to diverse educational and career goals.
Provides specialized advanced practice nursing programs such as CRNA, FNP, and other NP specializations, leading to advanced clinical roles.
Emphasizes evidence-based practice and research, particularly in DNP and PhD programs, to advance the nursing profession.
Accelerated BSN programs are designed for individuals with prior bachelor's degrees in other fields, allowing for a faster track to becoming a registered nurse.
MSN programs offer diverse specializations, potentially including nursing education, administration, and informatics, expanding career opportunities beyond direct patient care.
The DNP program focuses on leadership and system-level improvements, preparing nurses for high-level administrative and policy roles.
PhD programs emphasize rigorous research training, preparing graduates for careers in academia and scientific inquiry within nursing.
Nursing Schools in Memphis, Tennessee
Address: 875 Monroe Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee 38163
Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Livingston Nursing Programs in Livingston, Tennessee
Comprehensive curriculum covering anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, maternal-newborn nursing, pediatrics, and mental health nursing.
Extensive clinical experience in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, and community health organizations.
Focus on developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills essential for providing safe and effective patient care.
NCLEX-RN exam preparation integrated throughout the program, including practice questions, review sessions, and individualized support.
Emphasis on ethical and legal considerations in nursing practice.
Strong foundation for career advancement opportunities in various nursing specialties and leadership roles.
Instruction by experienced and qualified nursing faculty dedicated to student success.
Nursing Schools in Livingston, Tennessee
Address: 740 Hi Tech Dr, Livingston, Tennessee 38570
The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga Nursing Programs in Chattanooga, Tennessee
Comprehensive curriculum covering foundational nursing principles, medical-surgical nursing, maternal-newborn nursing, pediatric nursing, and mental health nursing.
Extensive clinical experiences in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health organizations.
Focus on critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills essential for providing safe and patient-centered care.
Experienced faculty comprised of registered nurses with advanced degrees and clinical expertise.
Preparation for the NCLEX-RN examination, the national licensure exam for registered nurses.
Opportunities for simulation-based learning using state-of-the-art equipment and technology to enhance practical skills.
Strong emphasis on ethical and legal considerations in nursing practice.
Southwest Tennessee Community College BSN, LPN, RN Nursing Programs in Memphis, Tennessee
LPN program focuses on practical skills and direct patient care under the supervision of RNs or physicians.
RN program provides a broader scope of practice, including assessment, planning, and implementation of patient care.
BSN programs may not be directly offered at community colleges, but pathway programs with universities allow students to start at the community college level.
Programs typically include classroom instruction, laboratory simulations, and clinical rotations in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings.
Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-PN (for LPNs) or NCLEX-RN (for RNs) examination for licensure.
Curriculum emphasizes patient safety, ethical considerations, and effective communication skills.
Tuition costs at community colleges are generally lower than those at four-year universities.
Nursing Schools in Memphis, Tennessee
Address: 737 Union Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee 38103
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville BSN, DNP, MSN, RN Nursing Programs in Knoxville, Tennessee
Strong focus on evidence-based practice across all programs, preparing graduates to implement the latest research in patient care.
Emphasis on interprofessional collaboration, ensuring nurses are skilled in working effectively within diverse healthcare teams.
Clinical experiences in a variety of settings, including hospitals, community clinics, and long-term care facilities, providing exposure to diverse patient populations.
Faculty comprised of experienced nurses and researchers who are actively involved in shaping the future of nursing practice.
Career paths range from direct patient care (BSN, RN) to advanced practice roles (MSN, DNP) and leadership positions.
Potential for specialization within MSN and DNP programs, such as Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Anesthesia, or Leadership and Management.
Opportunities for research involvement, allowing students to contribute to the advancement of nursing knowledge.
Nursing Schools in Knoxville, Tennessee
Address: 527 Andy Holt Tower, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996
The University of Tennessee-Martin Nursing Programs in Martin, Tennessee
Comprehensive curriculum covering anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, mental health nursing, and maternal-child nursing.
Extensive clinical experiences 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 providing safe and effective patient care.
Preparation for the NCLEX-RN examination, including dedicated review courses, practice questions, and simulation labs.
Opportunities to work with experienced registered nurses and healthcare professionals.
Emphasis on patient-centered care and ethical practice.
Career counseling and job placement assistance to help graduates find rewarding nursing positions.
Nursing Schools in Martin, Tennessee
Address: 554 University Street, Martin, Tennessee 38238
Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Athens Nursing Programs in Athens, Tennessee
Comprehensive curriculum covering medical-surgical nursing, maternal-newborn nursing, pediatric nursing, mental health nursing, and community health nursing.
Extensive clinical experiences in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community settings.
Focus on patient-centered care, critical thinking, and evidence-based practice.
Emphasis on professional development, ethics, and leadership skills.
Dedicated faculty with real-world nursing experience.
NCLEX-RN exam preparation integrated throughout the program, including practice exams and review sessions.
Strong career outlook with high demand for registered nurses in various healthcare settings across Tennessee and beyond.
Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Newbern Nursing Programs in Newbern, Tennessee
Comprehensive curriculum encompassing medical-surgical nursing, maternal-newborn nursing, pediatric nursing, mental health nursing, and pharmacology.
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 safe and effective patient care.
Preparation for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) through dedicated review courses, practice exams, and faculty support.
Emphasis on ethical and legal responsibilities of registered nurses.
Integration of technology in nursing practice, including electronic health records and simulation labs.
Excellent career outlook with high demand for registered nurses in Tennessee and nationwide.
Nursing Schools in Newbern, Tennessee
Address: 340 Washington St, Newbern, Tennessee 38059
Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Crossville Nursing Programs in Crossville, Tennessee
Comprehensive curriculum covering anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, mental health nursing, maternal-child nursing, and community health nursing.
Extensive clinical experiences in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, and community health organizations.
Focus on patient-centered care, critical thinking, and evidence-based practice.
Preparation for the NCLEX-RN examination, including review sessions, practice tests, and remediation strategies.
Emphasis on ethical and legal considerations in nursing practice.
Development of communication, teamwork, and leadership skills essential for success in the nursing profession.
Opportunity to advance your career in a high-demand field with diverse employment options.
Nursing Schools in Crossville, Tennessee
Address: 910 Miller Avenue, Crossville, Tennessee 38555
Hands-On Clinical Experience: Provides extensive clinical rotations in diverse healthcare settings like hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.
NCLEX-RN Preparation: Dedicated coursework and resources focused on preparing students to successfully pass the NCLEX-RN examination.
Experienced Faculty: Instruction from qualified and experienced registered nurses and healthcare professionals.
Patient-Centered Care Focus: Emphasizes the importance of providing holistic and compassionate care to patients of all ages and backgrounds.
Career Advancement Opportunities: Prepares graduates for entry-level RN positions and provides a foundation for future specialization and advanced nursing education.
Nursing Schools in Huntsville, Tennessee
Address: 355 Scott High Drive, Huntsville, Tennessee 37756-4149
Extensive clinical experience in diverse healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health organizations.
Emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, and evidence-based practice.
NCLEX-RN preparation integrated throughout the program, including review sessions, practice exams, and individualized support.
Hands-on skills training in state-of-the-art nursing labs with simulation technology.
Experienced and dedicated faculty committed to student success.
Focus on professional development, ethical decision-making, and patient advocacy.
Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Paris Nursing Programs in Paris, Tennessee
Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers medical-surgical nursing, maternal-newborn nursing, pediatric nursing, mental health nursing, and pharmacology.
Hands-on Clinical Experience: Students gain valuable experience in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health settings.
State-of-the-Art Simulation Lab: Practice essential nursing skills in a realistic and safe environment.
NCLEX-RN Preparation: Rigorous preparation for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) with review courses, practice exams, and individualized support.
Experienced Faculty: Learn from highly qualified and experienced registered nurses who are dedicated to student success.
Career Outlook: High demand for registered nurses in Tennessee and across the nation.
Financial Aid Opportunities: Explore various financial aid options to make your education affordable.
Nursing Schools in Paris, Tennessee
Address: 312 S Wilson Street, Paris, Tennessee 38242
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, communication, and patient advocacy skills.
Preparation for the NCLEX-RN examination through dedicated review courses, practice exams, and individualized support.
Emphasis on patient-centered care, ethical practice, and evidence-based practice.
Opportunity to earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN).
Strong career outlook with high demand for registered nurses in Tennessee and nationwide.
Nursing Schools in Pulaski, Tennessee
Address: 1233 E College St, Pulaski, Tennessee 38478-0614
Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Elizabethton Nursing Programs in Elizabethton, Tennessee
Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, mental health nursing, maternal-newborn nursing, and pediatric nursing.
Extensive Clinical Experience: Provides hands-on experience in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health organizations.
NCLEX-RN Preparation: Integrated NCLEX-RN review throughout the program with practice questions, simulations, and dedicated review sessions.
Experienced Faculty: Instruction from qualified and experienced nursing faculty with a passion for teaching and mentoring students.
State-of-the-Art Simulation Labs: Utilizes high-fidelity simulation labs to provide students with realistic patient care scenarios and opportunities to practice critical thinking and decision-making skills.
Career Opportunities: Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions as Registered Nurses in a variety of healthcare settings, with excellent career advancement potential.
Accreditation: Program is accredited by a recognized accrediting body, ensuring quality and eligibility for NCLEX-RN licensure.
Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Ripley Nursing Programs in Ripley, Tennessee
Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers foundational nursing principles, medical-surgical nursing, maternal-newborn nursing, pediatric nursing, mental health nursing, and pharmacology.
Extensive Clinical Experience: Provides hands-on learning in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health organizations.
NCLEX-RN Preparation: Integrates NCLEX-RN review strategies and practice exams throughout the program to maximize student success.
Accreditation: Designed to meet the requirements for accreditation, ensuring high-quality education and eligibility for licensure.
State-of-the-Art Simulation Labs: Utilizes realistic simulation labs to enhance critical thinking, decision-making, and clinical skills in a safe and controlled environment.
Career Opportunities: Graduates are prepared for entry-level RN positions in a variety of healthcare settings, with opportunities for career advancement and specialization.
Experienced Faculty: Taught by qualified and experienced nursing faculty dedicated to student success.
Middle Tennessee State University BSN, FNP, NP Nursing Programs in Murfreesboro, Tennessee
BSN programs often focus on foundational nursing skills, patient care principles, and healthcare ethics.
FNP programs build upon BSN knowledge, emphasizing advanced assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of patients across the lifespan in a primary care setting.
NP programs typically require a Master's or Doctoral degree and lead to certification as a Nurse Practitioner.
Clinical rotations are a significant component of both BSN and NP programs, providing hands-on experience in various healthcare settings.
Graduates of BSN programs are prepared for entry-level nursing positions in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities.
Graduates of FNP/NP programs are prepared to practice as advanced practice registered nurses, often with prescriptive authority and the ability to independently manage patient care.
Programs like these often prepare students for national certification exams relevant to their chosen nursing specialty.
Nursing Schools in Murfreesboro, Tennessee
Address: 1301 East Main Street, Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37132
Jackson State Community College Nursing Programs in Jackson, Tennessee
Comprehensive curriculum covering anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, mental health nursing, and maternal-child 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 providing safe and effective patient care.
Preparation for the NCLEX-RN examination, the national licensure exam for registered nurses.
Emphasis on evidence-based practice and lifelong learning.
Opportunities for simulation lab experiences to enhance skills and confidence.
Strong career outlook with high demand for registered nurses in various healthcare settings.
Nursing Schools in Jackson, Tennessee
Address: 2046 North Pky, Jackson, Tennessee 38301-3797
East Tennessee State University BSN, DNP, FNP, MSN, NP, Nursing Admin/Leadership, PMHNP, RN, RN to BSN Nursing Programs in Johnson City, Tennessee
Offers multiple entry points, catering to both aspiring nurses (BSN, RN) and practicing nurses seeking career advancement (RN to BSN, MSN, DNP).
BSN programs likely emphasize hands-on clinical experiences in diverse settings, including hospitals, clinics, and community health organizations throughout the Appalachian region.
Graduate programs like FNP, PMHNP, and Nursing Administration/Leadership provide specialized knowledge and skills for advanced practice roles.
DNP programs focus on evidence-based practice, leadership, and healthcare policy, preparing nurses for the highest level of clinical practice or administrative roles.
Curriculum likely integrates technology and simulation to enhance learning and prepare students for the evolving healthcare landscape.
NP specializations (FNP, PMHNP) equip nurses to diagnose, treat, and manage a wide range of health conditions within their chosen population focus.
Nursing Administration/Leadership programs empower nurses to lead and manage healthcare teams and organizations effectively.
Nursing Schools in Johnson City, Tennessee
Address: 1276 Gilbreath Drive, Johnson City, Tennessee 37614
Austin Peay State University BSN, FNP, MSN, NP, PMHNP, RN, RN to BSN Nursing Programs in Clarksville, Tennessee
BSN programs typically offer direct entry or traditional pathways for aspiring registered nurses, focusing on fundamental nursing skills and patient care across diverse settings.
RN to BSN programs provide a streamlined route for registered nurses with associate degrees or diplomas to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, enhancing career advancement opportunities.
MSN programs prepare nurses for advanced practice roles, leadership positions, and specialized areas of nursing, often including tracks like Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).
FNP programs equip nurses with the knowledge and skills to provide comprehensive primary care services to individuals and families across the lifespan.
PMHNP programs specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders, enabling nurses to provide crucial psychiatric care.
NP programs (which may encompass FNP and PMHNP) prepare nurses to function as advanced practice registered nurses, providing a wider scope of practice, including prescribing medications and ordering diagnostic tests.
Graduates from these programs are often well-prepared for a variety of roles in hospitals, clinics, community health centers, and private practice.
Nursing Schools in Clarksville, Tennessee
Address: 601 College St, Clarksville, Tennessee 37044
1. What types of nursing programs are available in Tennessee?
Nursing schools in Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
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 Tennessee 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 Tennessee.
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 Tennessee?
Nurses in Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
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.