2023 Best Online Nursing Programs in Nebraska
Explore the best online nursing programs in Nebraska for 2023. Even before the pandemic, there has been an escalating demand for educational programs that offer flexibility and convenience. Online nursing courses have emerged as a top pick for individuals aiming for a career in the healthcare sector. Additionally, aspiring nurses should consider reviewing the most affordable nursing degrees if tuition expenses are a factor in your college choice.
Our 2023 list includes colleges in Nebraska that offer online nursing programs and have available NCLEX data, so you can easily determine which online nursing program results in graduates with the best pass rate.
2023 Best Online Nursing Programs in Nebraska
School | NCLEX Pass Rate | Online Enrollment |
---|---|---|
Bryan College of Health Sciences | 96.47% | 52 |
Nebraska Methodist College | 95.27% | 401 |
Clarkson College | 94.95% | 602 |
University of Nebraska Medical Center | 89.43% | 675 |
Midland University | 88.24% | 19 |
Becoming a Nurse in Nebraska
Nursing schools in Nebraska are plentiful, including several with multiple nursing program options. Each type of nurse has a specific set of criteria for licensure in the Cornhusker State, such as passing a version of the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).
The Nebraska Board of Nursing is housed in the state's Department of Health and Human Services, and aspiring nurses can receive credentials to become licensed practical nurses (LPNs), registered nurses (RNs), and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). Nebraska also has specific certification requirements for certified nursing aides (CNAs).
Becoming a nurse in Nebraska could kick off an in-demand career that pays relatively well. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), RNs in Nebraska make a mean annual wage of $73,510. That’s more than the annual mean salary for all occupations in the state, which is $55,070.
Keep reading to learn how to get various types of Nebraska nursing licenses.
To learn about online nursing programs and requirements in other states, explore our list of accredited nursing degrees by state below:
Nursing Degrees by State
- Alabama
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
How To Get Certified Nurse Aide Certification in Nebraska
Students must complete at least 75 hours of training in an approved Nebraska nurse aide training program to become a CNA. Alternatively, applicants may complete a 21-hour basic resident care course if they want to work in intermediate care facilities housing residents with developmental disabilities. Nebraska requires one hour of Nebraska-specific abuse, neglect, and misappropriation training.
Most aspiring CNAs in Nebraska must pass both a written and oral exam and a test of their clinical skills. There is no fee to apply for licensure by examination. Another path is for candidates who are already licensed in another state. These CNAs can apply for an interstate endorsement and transfer their licenses.
CNA Certification Renewal
Renewal for nursing aides occurs every two years. To remain active, a renewal candidate must have worked for pay as a CNA in the previous two years.
How To Get a Licensed Practical Nurse License in Nebraska
A Nebraska LPN license requires the completion of a practical nursing program lasting between nine months and one year. Several programs are available throughout the state. Applicants must also pass the NCLEX-PN to become licensed. Individuals must send the results directly to the Nebraska Board of Nursing.
Additionally, applicants must complete a fingerprint and background screening. Out-of-state candidates may qualify for a Nebraska Nursing License Endorsement, which is meant for LPNs who are already licensed in another state and looking to transfer.
How To Get a Registered Nurse License in Nebraska
To qualify for a Nebraska RN license, applicants must complete two to four years of nursing education at a college or university and graduate with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. Aspiring RNs must also pass the NCLEX-RN. Exam results should be sent directly to the board from the testing organization as part of the application for a Nebraska nursing license.
All Nebraska RN license hopefuls must undergo background and fingerprint checks. Transcripts must also be sent from the graduate's nursing program.
RN License Renewal
RNs must meet a continued competency requirement in order to renew their license. A common example includes practicing nursing for a minimum of 500 hours in the last five years and completing 20 contact hours of approved continuing education.
How To Get an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse License in Nebraska
RNs may apply for a Nebraska APRN license after earning a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. Successful APRNs must also receive a national board certification in order to qualify. There are four specialty areas in which a Nebraska APRN may become certified to practice:
Certified nurse midwife (APRN-CNM)
Clinical nurse specialist (APRN-CNS)
Certified registered nurse anesthetist (APRN-CRNA)
Nurse practitioner (APRN-NP)
APRNs must submit an online application that includes a fingerprint and background check.
Nurses interested in an APRN role might want to read How to Become a Nurse Anesthetist, Guide to Online Nurse Practitioner Degrees, and 2023 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Degree Programs.
APRN License Renewal
Nebraska APRN licenses expire on October 31 of even-numbered years. Licensees must maintain their current national certifications. Each specialty may also have additional required hours of practice, including those who are licensed as either a CNS, CNM, or NP. The renewal process includes submitting a renewal notice, attesting to meeting the continued competency requirements, and paying the biennial renewal fee.
FAQs About Online Nursing Programs in Nebraska
Can I Become a Nurse With an Online Degree?
There are a number of online nursing degrees in Nebraska. The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services even has a list of approved nursing schools in the state, several of which offer nursing programs online.
If you’re interested in attending a university outside of Nebraska, explore our complete list of online nursing programs at the bachelor's level.
How Long Does It Take To Become an RN in Nebraska?
In Nebraska, it can take between two and five years to become an RN. Nebraska requires that licensure applicants complete a two- or four-year degree program and pass the NCLEX.
Depending on your degree program, you may graduate prepared to take the NCLEX or you may need to prepare after graduation. Studying, taking the test, and receiving your results may take another few months after graduation.
Are There Online LPN to RN Programs in Nebraska?
There are several higher education institutions with online LPN to RN programs in Nebraska. You may also find online CNA classes in this state.
Are There RN to BSN Online Programs in Nebraska?
You can find a range of online RN to BSN programs in Nebraska. These programs are designed for licensed RNs with ADNs to earn their BSN at an accelerated rate.
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