Missouri nursing schools boast an impressive 90% first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate. This rate exceeds the national average of 86.6% by a lot.
Missouri offers aspiring nurses plenty of options with nearly 70 associate and BSN programs throughout the state. The nursing workforce includes over 69,240 professionals, mostly in St. Louis and Kansas City. RNs earn an average salary of $65,900 which, though below the national average, stays competitive with nearby states.
Our analysis of Missouri’s best nursing programs will help you choose the right school. This detailed piece covers the top nursing schools in Missouri for 2024, including programs with 100% NCLEX pass rates and affordable options starting at $141 per credit hour.
College of the Ozarks
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The Armstrong McDonald School of Nursing (AMSON) at College of the Ozarks stands out as a top choice among missouri nursing schools. This private institution in Point Lookout ranks #1 out of 59 nursing schools in Missouri.
College of the Ozarks Program Overview
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program has earned both CCNE accreditation and Full Approval Status from the Missouri State Board of Nursing. The program delivers a Christ-centered, biblically-based approach to nursing education. Students benefit from these key features:
- One-on-one preceptorship model
- Integrated patient-centered care focus
- Emphasis on character development and professional service
College of the Ozarks NCLEX Pass Rates
The program’s excellence shines through its outstanding NCLEX-RN exam performance. AMSON achieved the highest NCLEX-RN pass rate in Missouri for 2024 with an impressive 98.85 out of 100. Students maintain a stellar three-year average NCLEX-RN passing rate of 100%.
College of the Ozarks Clinical Partnerships
The school’s mutually beneficial alliances have created remarkable outcomes. The program proudly showcases:
- 100% employer satisfaction rate
- 100% job placement for graduates, often secured before graduation
- One-on-one faculty supervision during clinical rotations
Alumni consistently praise the faculty team as the key to their success, especially when you have their dedicated support for NCLEX-RN exam preparation and career readiness after graduation.
State Fair Community College
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State Fair Community College’s nursing program stands out as the #1 ranked institution by both PracticalNursing.org and RegisteredNursing.org. The program’s excellence shines through their 100% NCLEX-RN pass rates achieved by May 2021 graduates.
State Fair Community College Nursing Programs
SFCC’s innovative bi-level program creates a smooth path from LPN to RN certification. The program features:
- Competency-based curriculum approved by Missouri State Board of Nursing
- Flexible learning options including hybrid formats
- Advanced placement opportunities for certified LPNs and paramedics
- Multiple campus locations in Clinton, Sedalia, and Eldon
State Fair Community College Success Rates
SFCC has managed to keep exceptional performance metrics through their dedicated approach. The program has ranked as the top nursing program in Missouri over the last several years. Their graduates show strong employment outcomes, with LPN salaries ranging from $26,700 to $35,000 and RN salaries from $36,200 to $52,500.
State Fair Community College Student Resources
SFCC gives students detailed support services. Students can access free tutoring in almost every subject, with online options available. They also benefit from:
- Dedicated nursing success coordinators
- Career development services
- Free counseling support
- Access to extensive library resources with over 35,000 books and videos
The program has strategic collaborations with healthcare facilities, which lets students use their classroom knowledge in real-life settings.
University of Missouri-Kansas City
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Research shows that the University of Missouri-Kansas City stands out among missouri nursing schools. The university provides the most extensive clinical training in the Kansas City region. Their innovative approach to nursing education has earned them a spot in the top 15% of BSN programs nationwide.
UMKC Nursing Program Details
The School of Nursing and Health Studies provides two distinct BSN pathways: a traditional pre-licensure program and an accelerated option for students with prior bachelor’s degrees. The accelerated program lets students complete their degree in less than two years, which appeals to professionals seeking career changes.
UMKC Clinical Experience Options
UMKC students complete an impressive 1,050 clinical hours – the highest in the Kansas City region. The clinical experience includes:
- Medical-surgical, pediatric, obstetric, and mental health rotations
- A 300-hour final semester capstone internship
- Training in both urban and suburban healthcare settings
UMKC Graduate Success Metrics
These detailed clinical experiences lead to remarkable outcomes. The program showcases:
| Metric | Performance |
|---|---|
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021-2022) | 98% |
| Graduate Employment Rate | 92.1% |
| Clinical Partner Satisfaction | Consistently report graduates as “job ready” |
The school’s state-of-art facilities boost the learning experience with a high-fidelity simulation center and nursing skills laboratory. All the same, UMKC’s steadfast dedication to interprofessional education sets it apart. The university is one of just 18 nationwide located within a dedicated Health Sciences District.
Missouri State University
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Missouri State University stands out among missouri nursing schools with its innovative “Earn as You Learn” program that brings a fresh perspective to nursing education.
MSU Nursing Program Features
Students at the School of Nursing experience a complete BSN program with state-of-the-art facilities. The program’s key benefits include:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| High-Tech Labs | Advanced simulation and skills labs |
| Campus Clinic | On-site Mercy clinic for hands-on experience |
| Flexible Learning | Multiple program pathways for various student needs |
MSU Clinical Partnerships
MSU has built groundbreaking strategic collaborations with major healthcare providers beyond traditional clinical rotations. Students can earn money while completing their clinical hours through the “Earn as You Learn” program with Mercy Hospital Springfield. The program lets students:
- Get real-life experience as Mercy co-workers
- Pick up extra hours as aides or sitters
- Learn about future employment opportunities
The program helps fill the local nursing shortage and gives students valuable experience and income.
MSU Student Support Services
Student success drives the university’s extensive support services. Students can access:
- Math Learning Center for course assistance
- Professional counseling services
- Writing Center support
- Dedicated health sciences digital library
- Online tutorials and research databases
The school joined the Alliance for Healthcare Education and has become part of the largest producer of health sciences professionals in the Midwest.
St. Charles Community College
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St. Charles Community College stands as Missouri’s third-best nursing school, known for delivering outstanding nursing education. Students can choose between two paths: a ten-month Practical Nursing program and a two-year associate degree program.
SCCC Program Overview
The Missouri State Board of Nursing fully approves SCC’s nursing programs, which also hold accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). The program’s structure features:
- Integrated coursework with application-based learning
- Focus on clinical judgment development
- Emphasis on patient-centered care principles
SCCC NCLEX Performance
A 2022 Registerednursing.org evaluation ranked SCC’s nursing program third in Missouri based on NCLEX-RN pass rates. Dr. Jen Bussen, who chairs SCC’s Nursing Department, credits this soaring win to their complete preparation approach.
SCCC Clinical Opportunities
Our research shows SCC’s mutually beneficial alliances with major healthcare providers:
| Clinical Partner | Graduate Placement |
|---|---|
| BJC Healthcare | High placement rate |
| SSM Health | Regular recruitment |
SCC graduates excel at providing safe, patient-centered care in healthcare settings of all types. Many alumni now work at prominent healthcare facilities throughout Missouri.
University of Central Missouri
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The University of Central Missouri stands out from other Missouri nursing schools with its focus on mentoring. Their nursing graduates have achieved a remarkable 100% placement rate.
UCM Nursing Programs
UCM’s nationally recognized program now offers three nursing pathways:
| Program Type | Annual Graduates | NCLEX Pass Rate |
|---|---|---|
| BSN (Pre-licensure) | 80 students | 97.6% |
| RN to BSN | 90 students | N/A |
| MSN | 200 enrolled | N/A |
UCM Learning Resources
The school’s learning environment has several outstanding features:
- Clinical rotations at healthcare facilities of all sizes, from small hospitals to major urban centers
- State-of-the-art simulation labs with lifelike mannequins
- One-on-one mentoring through clinical practicums
UCM Career Outcomes
The program’s career outcomes highlight its excellence. 95% of graduates stay in Missouri and help meet the state’s healthcare needs. Strategic collaborations with prominent institutions like Children’s Mercy Hospital showcase the program’s success.
Graduates can choose from various specializations, from pediatrics to critical care. Healthcare partners consistently praise UCM graduates as well-prepared professionals, thanks to the program’s high academic standards and varied clinical experiences.
North Central Missouri College
North Central Missouri College’s nursing program ranks #9 among missouri nursing schools according to RegisteredNursing.org. Students love this program because it offers flexible learning options and delivers outstanding results.
NCMC Program Structure
NCMC runs three different ADN programs from August to May:
| Program Type | Duration | Format |
|---|---|---|
| Trenton | 9 months | On-campus |
| Savannah | 9 months | On-campus |
| Online | 9 months | Hybrid |
Working professionals can benefit from the online program’s asynchronous coursework. Students need to show up for some on-campus labs and simulations.
NCMC Clinical Training
Students complete their clinical rotations at leading healthcare facilities:
- Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph
- University of Missouri Hospital in Columbia
Students spend about 40 hours each week on coursework and clinical training. The program’s focus on hands-on experience in a variety of clinical settings helps graduates tackle real-life nursing challenges.
NCMC Student Achievement
The program’s numbers speak for themselves:
- 90% first-attempt NCLEX-RN pass rate
- 90% employment rate within 6-12 months post-graduation
- 90% employer satisfaction rating on graduate preparation
Students can pick either traditional or online pathways. Both options follow the same high standards and hold accreditation from the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation.
Southeast Health College
Image Source: SoutheastHEALTH College of Nursing & Health Sciences
When we look at Missouri nursing schools, Southeast Health College stands out with its dual-track approach to nursing education. The college provides both an Associate of Applied Science and BSN program that have full accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing.
Southeast Health Program Details
The nursing program provides two distinct pathways:
| Program Track | Start Date | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time RN | August 2025 | July 7, 2025 |
| Accelerated LPN/Paramedic | January 2026 | December 5, 2025 |
Southeast Health Clinical Experience
Students complete their clinical rotations at Mercy Hospital Southeast, a regional medical center. The clinical experience includes:
- Individualized instruction from scholarly faculty
- State-of-the-art simulation facilities
- Hands-on training opportunities in various specialties
Southeast Health Graduate Outcomes
The program’s success metrics are remarkable. The college maintains an 84% six-year graduation rate. Student success continues after graduation with exceptional career placement rates. Students can also pursue advanced degrees, and many graduates continue their education at prestigious Missouri institutions.
The college’s steadfast dedication to excellence shows in its 100% four-year graduation rate for traditional students. This achievement comes from their individualized instruction approach and outstanding clinical resources.
Saint Louis University
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Saint Louis University’s Trudy Busch Valentine School of Nursing stands as one of Missouri’s oldest nursing institutions. The school made history by launching the country’s first accelerated BSN program in 1971.
SLU Nursing Programs Overview
Their AMSN program boasts an impressive 100% NCLEX pass rate. The school’s educational options include:
| Program Type | Duration | Format |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional BSN | 4 years | On-campus |
| Accelerated BSN | 12 months | On-campus |
| Direct-Entry MSN | 21 months | On-campus |
SLU Clinical Partnerships
The school has built strong relationships with regional healthcare providers. Students complete their clinical hours in a variety of settings:
- Community health centers that provide physician services
- Local agencies that work with school-aged children
- Public health facilities throughout St. Louis County
SLU Career Preparation
The Career Services department helps students prepare for their future careers through:
- Virtual career counseling appointments
- Resume and cover letter review services
- Professional networking opportunities
Students also have opportunities to join internship programs with leading healthcare companies like Medtronic. The school’s steadfast dedication to excellence has earned it a spot among the nation’s top-10 colleges for nursing.
Jefferson College
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Jefferson College stands out among Missouri nursing schools with its unique bi-level nursing program that creates a smooth path from PN to RN certification. The program holds Full Approval from the Missouri State Board of Nursing.
Jefferson College Program Features
This program’s bi-level structure makes it special. Students in Level I/PN can move up to Level II/RN when they keep an 85% average in their courses. Students can finish their education through:
| Program Level | Certification | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Level I | PN Certificate | 12 months |
| Level II | AAS Degree | Additional 12 months |
Jefferson College Success Rates
The program’s excellence shows in its outstanding results:
- 97% NCLEX-PN pass rate for Level I graduates
- 94.60% NCLEX-RN pass rate for Level II graduates
- 92.86% RN placement rate within six months of graduation
Jefferson College Student Support
The Student Nurse Club is the life-blood of student success and provides:
- Monthly meetings where students mentor each other
- Professional networking events
- Campus blood drive organization
- Volunteer opportunities in the community
Students also get complete academic support from nursing faculty advisors who track their progress and guide them throughout the program.
Maryville University
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Maryville University’s nursing program has educated healthcare professionals for over 150 years. The school’s steadfast dedication to state-of-the-art practices and results makes it stand out among missouri nursing schools.
Maryville Nursing Programs
The university provides fully online CCNE-accredited programs:
| Program Level | Key Feature | Pass Rate |
|---|---|---|
| BSN | 100% Online | High |
| MSN | 5 Concentrations | 100% PMHNP |
| DNP | Evidence-based Focus | Excellent |
Maryville Clinical Experience
The program excels with its flexible clinical arrangements. Here are the standout features:
- Local clinical completion options
- No waiting lists for clinical placements
- Detailed board preparation support
Maryville Career Outcomes
Graduates achieve remarkable success in their careers. The program highlights:
- 98% career outcome rate for online graduates
- Median RN salary of $73,300
- Nurse Practitioner earnings up to $115,800
The school ranks as the nation’s 3rd fastest-growing private university, showing its excellence in modern education. Students learn practical skills in a variety of settings through strategic collaborations with healthcare facilities, from hospitals to private practices.
Chamberlain University
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Chamberlain University stands as one of Missouri’s most respected nursing schools with a rich 130-year legacy. The school has grown impressively to become America’s largest nursing institution.
Chamberlain Program Overview
The university holds CCNE accreditation and provides students with multiple nursing pathways. Students’ graduation rates are a big deal as it means they exceed the national average by more than 20%.
| Success Metric | Performance |
|---|---|
| Graduation Rate | 20% above national average |
| Alumni Network | 114,000+ graduates |
| Minority BSN Degrees | Leading grantor in US |
Chamberlain Clinical Training
The school’s clinical experience shines through several key features:
- Students complete 96 hours of specialized clinical training
- Mutually beneficial alliances with major healthcare providers
- Students train in a variety of settings from hospitals to long-term care facilities and community agencies
Chamberlain Student Success
The Center for Academic Success helps students thrive by providing:
- One-on-one tutoring
- Professional nurse mentoring
- 24/7 academic resources
Third-year BSN students can participate in the Practice Ready Specialty Focused™ program. This unique program combines a 16-week online course with an eight-week clinical experience to specialize in four nursing areas.
Truman State University
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Our review of missouri nursing schools found that there was Truman State University’s exceptional nursing program. The program received a $150,000 grant to expand its offerings.
Truman State Program Details
The university has two distinct pathways:
| Program Type | Duration | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional BSN | 4 years | 122 credits |
| Accelerated BSN | 15 months | 53 credits |
Both programs have accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and full approval from the Missouri State Board of Nursing.
Truman State Clinical Partnerships
Students get hands-on experience through the nursing department’s strong clinical connections:
- Adult and obstetric acute care at Northeast Regional Medical Center
- Pediatric rotations at St. Louis Children’s Hospital
- Mental health experience through local agencies
Truman State Graduate Success
The program’s excellence shows in its remarkable outcomes. We found that 100% of nursing graduates secure employment after graduation. The program’s graduates now work at prestigious institutions like:
- Barnes-Jewish Hospital
- Children’s Mercy Hospital
- Mayo Clinic
- Missouri Baptist Medical Center
Many graduates also head over to renowned institutions like Harvard, Yale, and Stanford University to continue their education.
Ozarks Technical Community College
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Our research shows that Ozarks Technical Community College stands out among Missouri nursing schools with its innovative hybrid learning approach. The program skillfully combines online activities with in-person clinical experiences and gives working students the flexibility they need.
OTC Program Structure
OTC has two nursing pathways, each with its own unique features:
| Program Type | Duration | Success Rate |
|---|---|---|
| ASN Program | 36 weeks | 90.5% NCLEX-RN |
| LPN Certificate | 12 months | 85% Retention |
OTC Clinical Experience
The hybrid format has:
- 12-hour clinical rotations with qualified faculty supervision
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- Video conferencing and online resources for remote learning
OTC Student Achievement
The program’s success metrics are impressive across both pathways. Students who complete the ASN program enjoy a job placement rate between 98-100%. These graduates secure positions in:
- Hospitals and inpatient departments
- Physician offices
- Home health care services
- Government agencies
The program’s excellence shines through its consistent NCLEX-RN pass rates, which reached 90.5% in 2022. Students in the practical nursing program maintain an 85% graduation retention rate. These numbers reflect OTC’s steadfast dedication to student success at every level.
Missouri Western State University
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We were impressed by Missouri Western State University’s ground-breaking Inter-Professional Health Professions Simulation project among missouri nursing schools. Students gain authentic hospital experience through their “Murphy General Hospital” simulation.
MWSU Nursing Programs
The School of Nursing provides detailed programs with small class sizes:
| Program Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Lecture Class Size | 60 students |
| Clinical Ratio | 10:1 student-instructor |
| Program Types | Traditional BSN, RN-BSN |
MWSU Clinical Opportunities
The simulation center mirrors actual hospital environments with:
- ICU, ER, and Med Surg Units
- Faculty acting as medical professionals
- Interdisciplinary team collaboration
MWSU Career Preparation
The Senior Clinical Capstone course gives students practical experience. Students work in community health and leadership roles to gain individualized learning opportunities. The College of Science and Health requires students to complete at least one applied learning experience before graduation.
Students can also work on research projects with faculty members. This hands-on approach and the university’s dedication to applied learning prepare graduates to enter professional practice immediately.
Comparison Table
| School Name | NCLEX Pass Rate | Program Types | Notable Features | Clinical Partnerships/Experience |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| College of the Ozarks | 98.85% | BSN | Christ-centered approach, One-on-one preceptorship model | 100% employer satisfaction, 100% job placement |
| State Fair Community College | 100% | LPN, RN (bi-level) | Multiple campus locations (Clinton, Sedalia, Eldon), Hybrid formats | Strategic collaborations with local facilities |
| University of Missouri-Kansas City | 98% | Traditional BSN, Accelerated BSN | Located in Health Sciences District, Highest clinical hours in KC region | 1,050 clinical hours, Medical-surgical, pediatric, obstetric rotations |
| Missouri State University | Not mentioned | BSN | “Earn as You Learn” program, On-site Mercy clinic | Strategic collaboration with Mercy Hospital Springfield |
| St. Charles Community College | Not mentioned | PN (10-month), ADN (2-year) | Ranks 3rd in Missouri | Strategic collaborations with BJC Healthcare, SSM Health |
| University of Central Missouri | 97.6% | BSN, RN to BSN, MSN | 100% placement rate | Clinical settings range from small hospitals to urban centers |
| North Central Missouri College | 90% | ADN (3 formats) | Flexible learning options | Mosaic Life Care, University of Missouri Hospital |
| Southeast Health College | Not mentioned | AAS, BSN | Dual-track approach | Primary collaboration with Mercy Hospital Southeast |
| Saint Louis University | 100% (AMSN) | Traditional BSN, Accelerated BSN, Direct-Entry MSN | Nation’s first accelerated BSN program | Community health centers, public health facilities |
| Jefferson College | PN: 97%, RN: 94.60% | PN Certificate, AAS | Bi-level nursing program | Not specifically mentioned |
| Maryville University | Not mentioned | BSN, MSN, DNP | 100% online programs, No waiting lists for clinicals | Flexible clinical arrangements |
| Chamberlain University | Not mentioned | Multiple nursing pathways | Largest nursing school in US | 96 clinical hours in specialized settings |
| Truman State University | Not mentioned | Traditional BSN, Accelerated BSN | 100% employment rate | Northeast Regional Medical Center, St. Louis Children’s Hospital |
| Ozarks Technical Community College | 90.5% | ASN, LPN Certificate | Hybrid learning approach | 12-hour clinical rotations |
| Missouri Western State University | Not mentioned | Traditional BSN, RN-BSN | “Murphy General Hospital” simulation | Inter-Professional simulation center |
Conclusion
Missouri nursing schools boast impressive NCLEX-RN pass rates between 90% and 100%. Each school brings something special to the table. The College of the Ozarks shines with its one-on-one preceptorship model. UMKC’s clinical training program stands as the most comprehensive in Kansas City.
These 15 schools excel through their program variety, from traditional BSN paths to accelerated options. Students get valuable hands-on experience through partnerships with leading healthcare providers like BJC Healthcare, SSM Health, and Children’s Mercy Hospital.
The job outlook is bright, and several programs have achieved 100% placement rates. The University of Central Missouri and Truman State University’s strong ties with major healthcare employers help students land jobs before graduation.
Future nursing students should review each program based on their needs. Location, program length, clinical opportunities, and cost are key factors to think about. Quality nursing education is available to students throughout Missouri thanks to flexible learning formats that include hybrid and online options.
