Idaho Nursing Colleges, Degrees & Licenses
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“My education at Boise State’s School of Nursing was pivotal to my success, with professors who both challenged and supported me, shaping me into a competent and compassionate RN. Since graduating, I’ve embraced numerous growth opportunities in my new role.”
Yessie Espinoza, BSN Graduate, Boise State University School of Nursing
Idaho experienced significant challenges in its nursing workforce prior to Covid-19. Rural Idaho lost more than one in four of its nurses between 2018 and 2020. The pandemic only further exacerbated the gap between the availability and quality of care rural Idahoans experience and that which residents living in larger communities and the capitol have access to. Many nurses working in rural Idaho left and moved to communities such as Boise, the greater Treasure Valley, Twin Falls, Pocatello, and Coeur d’Alene.
The state continues to undertake efforts to address the rural nursing crisis. Among other efforts, the state has previously tried to address this problem via legislative action. For example, in February 202, the Idaho Senate Health and Welfare Committee advanced legislation to incentivize nurses to take jobs in rural Idaho. That bill, unfortunately, later failed in the Idaho State Senate.
Loss of nurses is a critical issue not just because nurses do truly vital work but because the loss can then precipitate additional loss of healthcare services. For example, research literature suggests that when rural hospitals lose their nursing staff, they experience a higher risk of closing. And once hospitals do close, other types of critical staff, such as physicians, are more likely to close their practices. The loss of nursing staff can also demoralize their former colleagues who subsequently will often face a larger workload.
The grim situation in Idaho, nonetheless, has a bright side. There is robust demand for nursing professionals in Idaho and throughout the rural regions of the United States. Despite its relatively small geography, Idaho has several good nursing education programs.
Read on to discover a sampling of Idaho’s top undergraduate and graduate nursing programs, salary expectations, and licensing requirements for nursing careers in this state.
Meet the Expert: Yessie Espinoza, BSN, RN, CNA
Yessie Espinoza’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and determination. After graduating from Boise State University with a BSN, she overcame the challenges of being a first-generation, non-traditional college student and a mother, all while working full-time as a certified nursing assistant (CNA) for nine years. Her journey was not easy, but it was worth it.
Espinoza emerged from her academic journey more resilient, knowledgeable, and adaptable, a testament to her strength and dedication. Her passion for nursing has only grown, and she feels privileged to be part of such a noble profession. Despite the hardships and stressors, she cannot imagine a more fulfilling career.
NursingColleges.com: How has graduating from a nursing program enhanced your career?
Espinoza: My education at Boise State’s School of Nursing was pivotal to my success, with professors who both challenged and supported me, shaping me into a competent and compassionate RN. Since graduating, I’ve embraced numerous growth opportunities in my new role. I joined my preferred hospital’s critical care float pool, supporting telemetry, intensive care, and emergency departments across various campuses. My employer provided classes to enhance my skills and confidence, ensuring I deliver quality care.
The first year as a nurse is undoubtedly challenging, but with the right support, it can also be incredibly rewarding.
NursingColleges.com: What is one piece of advice you would give to a prospective nursing student?
Espinoza: If you have a genuine passion for caring for others, a nursing degree could be the perfect path for you. Embrace the challenges and doubts that may come your way, knowing that the outcome is truly rewarding. Utilize your resources, lean on your support system, practice self-care, and allow yourself the space to learn. As a nurse, you’ll have the privilege of playing a crucial role during vulnerable moments in people’s lives, making a lasting impact even in brief encounters.
Accredited Undergraduate Nursing Programs in Idaho
Lewis Clark State College (Online and On-campus)
Lewis Clark State College offers four different tracks to obtaining a bachelor of science in nursing degree: the pre-licensure track, the LPN to BSN program, the CC to BSN program, and the online RN-to-BSN program.
The pre-licensure and LPN-to-BSN tracks are both 120-credit, four-year programs consisting of four semesters of prerequisite coursework followed by four semesters of only nursing coursework. The LPN-to-BSN program is for students who have graduated from a practical nursing program and have a valid LPN or LVN license. The CC to BSN program is an online program for students currently enrolled in an associate’s degree nursing program who wish to complete a BSN concurrently. This program features a collaboration with three different community colleges in Idaho. The online delivery model allows students to remain in their local communities while completing their degrees and may thus be appealing to those interested in future careers in rural health care.
Finally, the RN-to-BSN track is for nurses who already hold an active RN license and who wish to advance their careers by obtaining a BSN.
- Location: Lewiston, ID and throughout state depending on track
- Duration: Two to four years depending on program track and pace of study
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Northwest Nazarene University (NNU) offers a bachelor of science degree in nursing that features a blend of liberal arts classes and nursing courses designed to transform students into effective nursing professionals who value holistic patient care and values of empathy and compassion. The curriculum teaches students to focus not just on patients but also on their families and the broader community in which they live. The program, by recognizing students’ abilities, experiences and attributes, seeks to create well-rounded graduates capable of contributing to the world in various settings.
NNU offers both a traditional undergraduate BSN as well as an RN-BSN program. A small instructor-to-student ratio means students can expect significant personalized attention from faculty. Hands-on clinical experiences are offered at many sites throughout the Boise Valley. Because it is a private school, no in-state tuition is offered. Students interested in international learning experiences can benefit from NNUs yearly international medical mission trip opportunities to Nicaragua, Ukraine, Peru, and Ghana.
- Location: Nampa, ID
- Duration: Five semesters that may be completed in four calendar years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
The Idaho State University (ISU) School of Nursing, located within the Kasiska Division of Health Sciences, is committed to providing skilled nursing professionals to Idaho and beyond. Three separate BSN programs are available: the traditional BSN program, the accelerated BSN (ABSN) program, and the baccalaureate completion program for RNs.
The traditional BSN program is a four-semester program designed for students with no nursing experience seeking their first nursing degree. This track is also suitable for licensed practical nurses wishing to obtain a bachelor’s degree. Classes are offered through a hybrid course model. The accelerated program is for those who hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing discipline and want to make a career change. Students can complete the three-semester program in just 12 months and promptly enter the workforce after that. Finally, the baccalaureate completion program is for current licensed RNs and students enrolled in an associate’s degree RN program. Though one clinical course is required, students otherwise complete classes online and can thus remain in their communities of residence.
ISU and Kootenai Health recently partnered to expand the ABSN program to the Coeur d’Alene, ID, area. The new cohort in Coeur d’Alene will offer ten seats for the 12-month program in its first year, with a plan for further growth in future years. This initiative is designed to address the urgent demand for nurses in Idaho and throughout the country.
- Location: Pocatello, ID
- Duration: One to two years (not counting past prerequisite training that may require up to two additional years of study)
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Boise State University (BSU) offers a 115-credit-hour, four-year bachelor of science in nursing degree program. This is a competitive program in which cohorts of eighty students are admitted in both the fall and spring semesters. Enrolled students and Idaho residents are given admission preference.
Students can expect a rigorous program emphasizing strong professional values, core nursing competencies, and the leadership skills necessary to perform well in today’s increasingly complex healthcare environment. Coursework topics include nursing leadership, health promotion, family health, mental health, environmental health, adult and pediatric care, medical and surgical care, psychiatric care, and public/community health and management. There is also a professional capstone course requirement. Students benefit from BSU’s network of strong relationships with area healthcare facilities. Through these partnerships, students complete clinical experiences and develop relationships that may lead to lasting work opportunities.
- Location: Boise, ID
- Duration: Four years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Accredited Graduate Nursing Programs in Idaho
Idaho State University (Hybrid)
Idaho State University offers a master of science degree in nursing with a focus in nursing education. This program prepares graduates for positions in nursing education as well as in the role of educator in settings including hospitals, health departments, clinics, and more. In the role of nurse educator or nurse leader, professionals are expected to effectively respond to current and projected changes in the health care system.
Though most coursework is offered online, clinical rotations will occur in person. In addition, three on-campus summer intensives are required. These intensives provide students with additional face-to-face learning opportunities from faculty and peers. Students are required to complete a total of 43 credit hours. The coursework requirement includes 336 lab/practicum hours in a placement suitable to the student’s skills and primary areas of interest.
- Location: Pocatello, ID
- Duration: Two (full-time) to three (part-time) years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Boise State University offers a 50-credit hour master of nursing degree specifically designed for nursing professionals who wish to work in gerontology. Two tracks are offered. These are the acute care and primary care tracks. Regardless of which track a student selects, the program typically requires nine semesters of study (fall, spring, and summer terms) over three years. The curriculum focuses on integrating theory and practice, research and scholarly inquiry, and the development and application of the advanced skills necessary to accurately diagnose, treat and manage adult/geriatric health as well as varied illnesses.
The 50-credit curriculum comprises nine credits of advanced nursing courses, 22 credits of nurse practitioner core courses, and 19 credits of specialty track courses in the specialization of acute care or primary care. The required 50 credits of coursework includes 700 hours of clinical experience. The clinical requirement is composed of three rotations, one practicum rotation (576 hours), and three on-campus summer intensives of three to seven days in duration on the Boise State campus.
Please Note: This program is not currently taking applications. Interested individuals should directly contact the school to inquire when the program might be offered again.
- Location: Boise, ID
- Duration: Three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Northwest Nazarene University (Online)
The Northwest Nazarene University (NNU) College of Nursing offers a master of science in nursing with two specialized study areas: leadership and education and family nurse practitioner. The master of science in nursing leadership and education is a fully online 36-credit-hour program. Meanwhile, the family nurse practitioner (FNP) specialization is a 48-credit-hour program that is mostly offered online. All credits for the degree, regardless of specialization, must be completed within five years of starting courses in that program.
NNU’s programs will likely appeal to people dedicated to values such as community and service. In completing the curriculum, students are expected to role model Christ-like ethical behavior by living according to principles of integrity and honesty. Graduates are also skilled in effectively describing the art and science of nursing and how it relates to individuals, families, and clinical populations across the human lifespan, as well as applying evidence-based practice principles in their daily work.
- Location: Nampa, ID
- Duration: Two to three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Eagle Gate College offers a master of science degree in nursing at two campus locations in Idaho. The curriculum prepares nursing professionals for a career at higher levels of practice than they can typically achieve through an undergraduate degree alone. Students gain knowledge and experience through traditional coursework, virtual practice, and the program’s clinical experience requirement. Newly graduated nurses may practice in settings such as hospitals, clinics, emergency rooms, private practices, nursing homes, and public health departments.
The MSN program features two track options: the administration and leadership track and the nursing education track. The administration and leadership track prioritizes skills in research, analysis, critical thinking, and leadership. Nurses who complete this track may fulfill many duties including personnel management, improvement of patient care outcomes, coordination of departmental workflows, and managing of nursing care at multiple organizational levels. The nursing education track is designed for people interested in applying their skills in several settings. Graduates of this track often meet the requirements to teach in licensed vocational nursing (LVN) programs, licensed practical nursing (LPN) programs, associate degree programs, and baccalaureate degree nursing programs.
Eagle Gate College also offers a master’s direct entry program in nursing (MEPN). This program admits those holding a non-nursing bachelor’s degree to become RNs. The curriculum is designed to facilitate a smooth transition into a nursing career regardless of one’s educational background. This includes not just non-life science backgrounds but backgrounds without any scientific training.
- Location: Two campuses in Boise and Idaho Falls, ID
- Duration: 20 months to three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Nursing School Accreditation
It is important to ensure that programs are accredited by either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). These organizations ensure that nursing programs meet certain standards and provide students with a quality education.
In Idaho, nursing program graduates obtain their license through the Idaho Board of Nursing (IBN). Applicants must have satisfactorily completed an appropriately accredited nursing program to be eligible for licensure. ACEN or CCNE will typically accredit accredited nursing programs within Idaho. Additional steps applicants will typically need to complete include passing a criminal background check, completing the Idaho Board of Nursing application for licensure, and passing the NCLEX exam. Requirements often differ by state.
How Much Do Nurses Make in Idaho?
These numbers represent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics from May 2023—the latest data available as of April 2024.
Licensed Practical Nurse Salaries
| United States | Idaho | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 630,250 | 2,380 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $60,790 | $54,600 |
| 10th percentile | $45,670 | $26,580 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $59,730 | $55,610 |
| 90th percentile | $77,870 | $74,210 |
Registered Nurse Salaries
| United States | Idaho | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 3,175,390 | 14,060 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $94,480 | $83,090 |
| 10th percentile | $63,720 | $62,210 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $86,070 | $80,130 |
| 90th percentile | $132,680 | $105,300 |
Nurse Anesthetist Salaries
| United States | Idaho | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 47,810 | 210 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $214,200 | $178,600 |
| 10th percentile | $139,980 | $93,270 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $212,650 | $188,560 |
| 90th percentile | >$239,200 | >$239,200 |
Nurse Midwife Salaries
| United States | Idaho | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 6,960 | 60 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $131,570 | $78,530 |
| 10th percentile | $87,320 | $22,090 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $129,650 | $92,090 |
| 90th percentile | $177,530 | $103,240 |
Nurse Practitioner Salaries
| United States | Idaho | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 280,140 | 1,130 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $128,490 | $124,550 |
| 10th percentile | $94,530 | $97,920 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $126,260 | $122,660 |
| 90th percentile | $168,030 | $155,210 |
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Licensure in Idaho
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
Idaho requirements for an LPN license include:
|
All LPNs in the state of Idaho must have two of following every two years for renewal:
They must also pay the $90 renewal fee. |
Registered Nurse (RN) Licensure in Idaho
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| State of Idaho Board of Nursing |
Idaho requirements for an RN license include:
| An RN in the state of Idaho must have two of following every two years for renewal:
They must also pay the $90 renewal fee |
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Licensure in Idaho
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
In the state of Idaho, CNSs are licensed as APRNs and require the following:
|
In order to renew an APRN license, applicants are required to maintain and document completion of professional development in active practice, continuing education, and peer review during the current two-year period, and may be audited for compliance with these requirements. APRNs who have completed APRN renewal requirements are exempt from RN renewal requirements. Continuing education requirements for renewing an APRN license include completing 30 contact hours of continuing education during the renewal period, including 10 contact hours in pharmacology if the nurse has prescriptive authority. The renewal application fee is $90. |
Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) Licensure in Idaho
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
In the state of Idaho, CNMs are licensed as APRNs and require the following:
|
In order to renew an APRN license in Idaho, applicants are required to maintain and document completion of professional development in active practice, continuing education, and peer review during the current two year period. APRNs who have completed APRN renewal requirements are exempt from RN renewal requirements. Continuing education requirements for renewing an APRN license include completing 30 contact hours of continuing education during the renewal period, including ten contact hours in pharmacology if the nurse has prescriptive authority. The renewal application fee is $90. |
Nurse Practitioner (NP) Licensure in Idaho
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
In the state of Idaho, NPs are licensed as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) and require the following:
|
In order to renew an advanced APRN license, applicants are required to maintain and document completion of professional development in active practice, continuing education, and peer review during the current two-year period, and may be audited for compliance with these requirements. APRNs who have completed APRN renewal requirements are exempt from RN renewal requirements. Continuing Education Requirements for renewing an APRN license include completing 30 contact hours of continuing education during the renewal period, including 10 contact hours in pharmacology if the nurse has prescriptive authority. The renewal application fee is $90. |
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CNRA) Licensure in Idaho
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
In the state of Idaho, CRNA license requirements include:
|
In order to renew a CRNA in Idaho license, applicants are required to maintain and document completion of professional development in active practice, continuing education, and peer review during the current two year period, and may be audited for compliance with these requirements. APRNs who have completed APRN renewal requirements are exempt from RN renewal requirements. Continuing education requirements for renewing an APRN license include completing 30 contact hours of continuing education during the renewal period, including ten contact hours in pharmacology if the nurse has prescriptive authority. The renewal application fee is $90. |
Bernd Geels
WriterBernd Geels is a Berlin, Germany-based freelance writer and artist. He holds an undergraduate degree in atmospheric science and two graduate degrees. He completed his most recent graduate degree in international environmental studies at the Monterey Institute of International Studies in 2011. He is interested in healthcare, climate change, marine conservation, indigenous science and refugee issues. You can reach him directly at [email protected].
Rachel Drummond, MEd
WriterAt NursingColleges.com, Rachel Drummond has applied her extensive experience in education and mindfulness to elucidate the importance of self-care for nursing students since 2022. Through her writings, she underscores the role of mental and physical well-being in fostering resilient and compassionate healthcare professionals.
Rachel is a writer, educator, and coach from Oregon. She has a master’s degree in education (MEd) and has over 15 years of experience teaching English, public speaking, and mindfulness to international audiences in the United States, Japan, and Spain. She writes about the mind-body benefits of contemplative movement practices like yoga on her blog, inviting people to prioritize their unique version of well-being and empowering everyone to live healthier and more balanced lives.