Kentucky Nursing Colleges, Degrees & Licenses
Nursing Colleges Search
When you click on a sponsoring school or program, or fill out a form to request information from a sponsoring school, we may earn a commission. View our advertising disclosure for more details.
Nurses are critical professionals within the healthcare system. In Kentucky, as in many other states, the early 2020s have proven a challenging time characterized by nursing workforce shortages, professional burnout due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and other issues.
The Kentucky Hospital Association’s most recently published annual workforce survey report shows Kentucky faces serious challenges. Noteworthy key findings of the report include high vacancy rates for licensed practical nurses and registered nurses, and approximately 13,000 job vacancies noted within Kentucky’s hospital system at the end of 2022. The report summarized the state as experiencing an “acute shortage” of healthcare workers.
Workforce shortages are attributable to many factors that are mutually intertwined. Persistent understaffing due to high vacancy rates can hasten burnout and related issues for existing workers as they often must carry an unreasonably heavy workload to compensate for the lack of personnel. This can exacerbate another issue, namely the staff turnover rate. When people do not remain in their jobs for a long time this high turnover rate can easily undermine morale for those who do remain. A lack of a stable workforce can also impede the critical transfer of nursing knowledge to incoming nursing professionals, increasing risks to patient safety and health outcomes.
The challenges that Kentucky and many other states face pre-date the COVID-19 pandemic. Structural issues are a major factor. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics has noted that to fulfill demand, the US healthcare delivery system will require 2.6 million more workers nationwide in the coming decade.
As in many other states, Kentucky also faces challenges in providing quality care to its rural residents. Kentucky faces a stark divide between the care it provides its urban residents and those who live in the countryside. Several factors contribute to this divide. One is the fact that rural hospitals are rarely very financially sustainable. In addition, a lack of transportation, communications, and other infrastructure can make it difficult for many residents to access care. The Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine is an example of a school formed to recognize the particular challenges of rural care. This school is briefly profiled immediately below.
Kentucky is fertile ground for investing in the education and employment of new nursing professionals. Kentucky features a variety of academic programs for nursing professionals seeking to begin or advance their careers. These programs vary in terms of duration, intensity, and complexity. Read on to discover Kentucky’s top undergraduate and graduate nursing programs, salary expectations, and licensing requirements for nursing careers in this state.
Accredited Undergraduate Nursing Programs in Kentucky
University of Pikeville (Online)
The University of Pikeville Elliott School of Nursing offers a 120-credit hour RN-BSN program designed to give nurses who already hold an associate degree in nursing the opportunity to earn a BSN through its online curriculum. The online delivery model allows registered nurses who are already working the flexibility to complete their coursework within their own schedules.
Students of this program are trained in evidence-based patient care and provided with the requisite skills to ultimately take advanced staff and leadership roles within a variety of nursing practice settings. Graduates of this program are also well-prepared for graduate-level education.
The University of Pikeville also includes the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine (KYCOM). It was recently ranked second among all DO (doctor of osteopathic medicine) and MD (medical doctor) degree-granting medical schools in the United States for graduates seeking primary care residencies. Guided by a mission to focus especially on underserved and rural areas, KYCOM can prove an excellent choice for students seeking to establish a healthcare career focused on providing healthcare to rural Americans.
- Location: Pikeville, KY
- Duration: Four years
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Northern Kentucky University offers a Kentucky Board of Nursing-approved BSN nursing program. The nursing program curriculum, offered through the NKU College of Health and Human Services, trains students in caring for people of all ages in various practice settings including hospitals, outpatient clinics and community agencies. Students develop skills and confidence through experiential learning within the simulation center. The program is designed to prepare nursing professionals who can be influential healthcare leaders in a global society.
Students seeking a BSN have three options: a traditional BSN track, an accelerated BSN track, or an online RN-to-BSN track. Those wishing to pursue additional studies upon graduation may choose from many additional options at NKU.
- Location: Highland Heights, KY
- Duration: Three to four years; varies depending on track and pace of study
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Midway University (In-person or online)
Midway University offers a BSN degree program featuring two different track options. These are the prelicensure BSN and the RN-BSN program.
The prelicensure BSN program is a traditional four-year undergraduate degree in which students attend in-person classes and often live on campus. Students complete 120 credit hours to graduate. The curriculum combines general education courses, professional nursing theory coursework, and supervised clinical experiences. Throughout their training, students are also required to take nationally normed assessments from the Assessment Technologies Institute. These assessments are performed to both supplement coursework and prepare students for the National Council Licensure Examination-RN (NCLEX-RN).
Students of the RN-BSN track often have previously completed an associate degree in nursing (ADN). Students who complete their ADN and pass the NCLEX exam can pursue the online RN-BSN track while concurrently working as an RN. This program track is thus especially suitable for existing nursing professionals seeking a program that is less demanding of their time and finances. Except for two practicum courses, all coursework can be completed online. This program can be completed in as little as one year but may require up to two years. Admission to the program is also highly flexible. Students can enter at one of five times throughout the year, namely January, March, June, August or October.
- Location: Midway, KY
- Duration: One to two years for RN-BSN program; four years for traditional program
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Western Kentucky University (WKU) offers a BSN program designed to meet the needs of both students and existing nursing professionals. WKU offers two tracks for students seeking to become nurses.
WKU’s traditional BSN program is a full-time, four-semester, upper-division option for students who have completed a minimum of 63 credits and required prerequisite courses. Students complete their prerequisite coursework before focusing solely on their nursing training requirements. In addition to traditional coursework, students must also complete 700 clinical contact hours. Supervised clinical experience is provided in varied hospital departments such as pediatrics, psychiatry, maternity, and surgery and other settings such as nursing homes, schools, and health departments. Graduates are qualified to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become registered nurses.
WKU also offers a second-degree entry option. This track is available to those with a BS or BA in a non-nursing field. Students with a past bachelor’s degree are exempt from WKU general education requirements. The only exception may occur in cases where those general education requirements are determined not to have been fully fulfilled by past coursework. Students must also complete nursing-specific prerequisites before entry into the nursing program. Completing the nursing curriculum necessary to get a BSN typically requires four semesters over two years.
- Location: Bowling Green, KY
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Thomas More University offers two tracks to attain a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree. These are the traditional BSN program and the RN to BSN program. The degree typically requires 52 credit hours of nursing courses and a roughly identical number of credit hours derived from supporting courses in biology, chemistry, psychology, mathematics, and English. A distinct advantage of Thomas More is its size. As a small, liberal arts institution it offers students the opportunity to develop supportive relationships with faculty. Students may develop relationships with professors as scholars, mentors, and also friends. Classmates also prove to be a great resource for nursing students as they may be study partners and durable friends.
The university is well respected and repeatedly acknowledged for how incredibly well-prepared its graduates are to enter the workforce. Graduates may fill any number of roles including, but not limited to, bedside nurse, clinical specialist, educator, healthcare administrator, emergency room nurse, researcher, and community health nurse.
- Location: Crestview Hills, KY
- Duration: Four years
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Accredited Graduate Nursing Programs in Kentucky
University of Louisville (Hybrid)
The University of Louisville offers a master of science in nursing (MSN) degree program with a concentration in advanced practice nursing (APRN). The program is designed for baccalaureate-prepared nurses. It offers specializations in adult gerontology care (both acute and primary care), family nurse practitioner, neonatal nurse practitioner, pediatric acute care nurse practitioner, and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. In addition to traditional coursework, students complete at least 672 hours of patient care clinical experience. This experience may be accrued through both in-person care and simulation experience.
The MSN APRN program features a holistic admission review process in which several criteria are considered to decide. These criteria include professional career goals, academic ability, past coursework performance, work experience and demonstration of leadership and related abilities in past activities such as volunteer work. Admission is offered in fall, spring, and summer. Courses are taught in a hybrid format.
- Location: Louisville, KY
- Duration: Two to three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Bellarmine University (Online)
Bellarmine University offers an online master of science in nursing (MSN) degree designed to prepare nursing professionals to successfully address healthcare delivery and design issues through advanced knowledge and leadership skills. Admissions decisions are thus guided by a focus on candidates who demonstrate capacities in both higher level knowledge acquisition and leadership.
The MSN program offers four distinct tracks: family nurse practitioner, administration, education, and adult gerontology acute care nurse practitioner. Because the MSN program builds on the curriculum of the university’s bachelor’s degree nursing program, graduates may find pursuing further study at Bellarmine especially suitable. In addition, regardless of past academic history, students design and complete their customized curriculum through ongoing collaboration with their faculty adviser.
- Location: Louisville, KY
- Duration: Two years (may also include summer study)
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
University of Kentucky (Online)
Nursing professionals interested in assuming a leadership role focused on the functioning of healthcare systems are recommended to consider the University of Kentucky’s 38 credit hour MSN in healthcare systems leadership degree program. Nursing coursework emphasizes effective leadership in organizational systems/settings, evidence-based practice and management, research methods, and quality and safety in healthcare. A portion of the required hours are earned through completion of the practicum. The practicum consists of 540 hours of clinical experience. Through practicum hours consist of tangible experience in leadership and the MSN capstone project.
Graduates are well prepared for roles demanding skills in improving the quality of patient outcomes, fostering a workplace culture defined by excellence and a commitment to continued learning, collaborative caregiving, integrated healthcare system operations, and innovative nursing practices.
- Location: Lexington, KY
- Duration: Two to three years depending on pace of study
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
The Western Kentucky University (WKY) School of Nursing and Allied Health offers a master of science in nursing (MSN) degree program. The MSN curriculum builds directly off the school’s BSN program. Students develop advanced nursing skills and thereby become qualified to fill positions featuring demand for levels of accountability, skill, and leadership ability higher than those typically expected of nurses holding a BSN. Students may choose between the family nurse practitioner (FNP) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) specializations.
The FNP specialization trains students to effectively diagnose and treat varied health conditions observed among patients of diverse ages, socioeconomic backgrounds, cultures, and other significant characteristics. Students become prepared to take the FNP certification exam. Admission is offered in fall and spring terms.
Compared to becoming an FNP, the PMHNP specialization has a narrower focus. Nurses in this program develop specialized knowledge in mental health. They focus on the diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric illnesses and mental health conditions observed among patients across the lifespan. Admission is offered in spring and summer terms.
- Location: Bowling Green, KY
- Duration: Two to three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Nursing School Accreditation
Nursing school accreditation is a voluntary but important step programs take to demonstrate that nurses who complete their program have received a quality education. When looking for a nursing program, it is important to ensure that it is 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.
Nursing professionals practicing in Kentucky must seek licensure through the Kentucky Board of Nursing. This board is responsible for the licensure of both registered and practical nurses. Licensure requirements often include passing a criminal background check and also passing the certification exam directly relevant to the particular nursing specialization the individual wishes to practice in.
After obtaining their licenses, nursing professionals maintain their skills through continued education. Continuing education is an important way for nurses to maintain the knowledge and skills necessary to perform their duties and renew their licenses in the future.
How Much Do Nurses Make in Kentucky?
These numbers, except nurse midwives, represent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics from May 2022—the latest data available as of March 2024. Salary data for nurse midwives is drawn from Salary.com and was calculated in early March 2024. No BLS figures in that profession were available for the state.
Licensed Practical Nurse Salaries
| United States | Kentucky | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 641,240 | 10,370 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $51,850 | $49,570 |
| 10th percentile | $37,150 | $38,430 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $48,070 | $49,210 |
| 90th percentile | $63,790 | $59,090 |
Registered Nurse Salaries
| United States | Kentucky | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 3,047,530 | 44,970 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $82,750 | $77,620 |
| 10th percentile | $59,450 | $56,120 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $77,600 | $75,800 |
| 90th percentile | $120,250 | $98,540 |
Nurse Anesthetist Salaries
| United States | Kentucky | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 43,950 | 290 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $202,470 | $235,260 |
| 10th percentile | $131,840 | $188,850 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $195,610 | >$239,200 |
| 90th percentile | >$208,000 per year | >$239,200 |
Nurse Midwife Salaries
| United States | Kentucky | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 7,750 | Unavailable |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $114,210 | Unavailable |
| 10th percentile | $61,500 | $97,080 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $112,830 | $114,718 |
| 90th percentile | $166,170 | $143,983 |
Nurse Practitioner Salaries
| United States | Kentucky | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 234,690 | 4,520 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $118,040 | $109,290 |
| 10th percentile | $79,470 | $74,270 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $120,680 | $104,630 |
| 90th percentile | $163,350 | $129,590 |
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Licenses in Kentucky
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
To earn a license in the state of Kentucky as an LPN, a candidate must:
|
LPNs in Kentucky are required to new their licenses annually by the 31st of October. The requirements to renew include:
|
Registered Nurse (RN) Licenses in Kentucky
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Kentucky Board of Nursing |
In order to earn a license in the state of Kentucky as an RN, a candidate must:
|
An RN is required to new their license annually by the 31st of October. The requirements to renew include:
|
Nurse Practitioner (NP) Licenses in Kentucky
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
To be licensed as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) in the state of Kentucky, applicants must meet the following criteria:
|
APRN licensure renewal occurs every year between September 15 and October 31. Licensees are required to complete five contact hours of continued education, along with the requirements set forth by the certifying body/agency for continued education. The renewal license fee is $55. |
Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) Licenses in Kentucky
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
To be licensed as a CNM in the state of Kentucky, applicants must meet the following criteria:
|
CNM licensure renewal in Kansas occurs every year between September 15 and October 31. Licensees are required to complete five contact hours of continued education, along with the requirements set forth by the certifying body/agency for continued education. The renewal license fee is $55. |
Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) Licenses in Kentucky
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
To be licensed as a CRNA in the state of Kentucky, applicants must meet the following criteria:
|
CRNA licensure renewal in Kentucky occurs every year between September 15 and October 31. Licensees are required to complete five contact hours of continued education, along with the requirements set forth by the certifying body/agency for continued education. The renewal license fee is $55. |
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Licenses in Kentucky
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
To be licensed as a CNS in the state of Kentucky, applicants must meet the following criteria:
|
CNS licensure renewal in Kentucky occurs every year between September 15 and October 31. Licensees are required to complete five contact hours of continued education, along with the requirements set forth by the certifying body/agency for continued education. The renewal license fee is $55. |
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].