Nebraska Nursing Colleges, Degrees & Licenses
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Nurses are critical professionals within the American healthcare system. The early 2020s have proven to be challenging for nurses. Workforce shortages and professional burnout due to the Covid-19 pandemic have strained the nursing profession. Yet a number of challenges for the nursing workforce pre-date the pandemic. For example, structural issues are a major contributing factor. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics has noted that the US healthcare delivery system will require 2.6 million more workers nationwide in the coming decade to fulfill demand.
Like many states, Nebraska is confronted with various challenges within its healthcare system. The Nebraska Center for Nursing’s 2022 Biennial Report indicated that the state’s nursing workforce contracted by approximately 2,600 nurses since 2018-19. Using model data in 2020, the Center for Nursing Supply and Demand estimated Nebraska has an existing nursing shortage of approximately 4,200 nurses (RNs, APRNs, and LPNs).
Perhaps even more concerning is data showing which nurses are most likely to leave the workforce in the near future. Of those surveyed in the report as mentioned above, the nurses most likely to soon leave the profession are those from the Generation Y/Millennial generation. This data is especially worrisome as losing many early-career nursing professionals is likely to impact the strength of the entire workforce for many, many years to come.
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. As alluded to above, a lack of a reliable and robust workforce can undermine the critical transfer of nursing knowledge to early career nurses, increasing risks to patient safety and longer-term outcomes.
As is true in many other rural states, Nebraska faces a stark divide regarding the accessibility and quality of care it provides its urban residents versus its rural residents. Many of Nebraska’s rural communities are considered medically underserved areas for primary and acute care services. Several factors contribute to the urban-rural divide. One is the fact that rural hospitals are rarely very financially sustainable. A fear of financial instability can make it difficult for communities to effectively plan for the related infrastructure needed when a hospital opens. In addition, a lack of other infrastructure such as transportation and communications often compounds the difficulties rural residents experience when trying to get care.
Despite its challenges, Nebraska is nonetheless trying to overcome deficiencies in its healthcare system. For example, Nebraska’s state-designated electronic health information exchange, CyncHealth, is improving the Nebraska hospital system’s access to patient information, improving patient safety and outcomes. With a very high level of participation in the state, CyncHealth seeks to address a critical problem common to rural states like Nebraska.
Nursing professionals seeking to specialize in rural healthcare will find Nebraska full of opportunities to apply their skills. Despite its rural character and small total population, Nebraska features many 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 Nebraska’s top undergraduate and graduate nursing programs, salary expectations, and licensing requirements for nursing careers in this state.
Featured Online Nursing Programs
Accredited Undergraduate Nursing Programs in Nebraska
The Creighton University College of Nursing has a highly respected reputation for its quality nursing education programs. Its programs emphasize both excellent nursing education based on the recognition the profession of nursing is ever-changing as well as a commitment to service.
Creighton University offers a 128-credit bachelor of science degree in nursing. This on-campus program trains students in the competencies necessary to become professional nurses skilled in various settings. The curriculum consists of traditional coursework and clinical training. It emphasizes critical thinking and decision-making skills, legal and ethical standards, and developing each student’s physical, spiritual, and intellectual potential. Creighton University also offers an accelerated bachelor of science in nursing degree (ABSN) program.
Creighton University’s curriculum is especially designed for recent high school graduates who wish to immediately begin their nursing studies as freshmen. The program accommodates students with various interests including, but not limited to, study abroad, the Army Reserve Officer Training Corp (ROTC), and the Air Force (ROTC). After completing an introduction to professional nursing and other foundational courses as a freshman, students broaden their nursing studies into many topics in their subsequent years of study.
- Location: Omaha, NE
- Duration: Four years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Nebraska Methodist College (On-campus, online)
Nebraska Methodist College offers many undergraduate nursing degrees. The four options are a traditional BSN program, an RN to BSN program, an LPN to BSN program, and an accelerated BSN program that may be completed in 12 months. The curriculum features an emphasis on community-based practice. Except for the RN-to-BSN program, all programs are offered on the Josie Harper campus in Omaha. All four programs boast a first-time NCLEX exam pass rate of at least 93 percent.
Students gain critical, required hands-on experience in clinical rotations. Affiliated hospitals such as Methodist Hospital and Methodist Women’s Hospital offer several rotations. Given the large size of the Methodist hospital system in the Midwest many students ultimately make meaningful professional connections through their clinical rotations that may help them secure their first jobs after graduation.
- Location: Omaha, NE
- Duration: One to four years, depending on the program
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
The University of Nebraska is a well-respected institution dedicated to providing quality nursing education. The University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) College of Nursing is the largest of UNMC’s six health colleges. It has a major presence and impact throughout Nebraska and seeks to influence the nursing profession throughout the United States. Students also benefit from a centralized online application process in which they may be considered for programs at one of UNMC’s five nursing campuses within the state. Given its reputation, UNMC attracts a diverse student body from the United States and the world.
The University of Nebraska offers many undergraduate degree programs in nursing. All degree options feature a curriculum emphasizing advanced, student-centered learning technologies and interdisciplinary learning. Particular options include the traditional BSN program, the accelerated BSN program, and the RN-to-BSN program. The accelerated BSN program is an intensive, 12-month program featuring student cohorts who participate in synchronous lectures across all participating campuses. Class sizes are small, and students only have one annual admission time in January.
In addition, in recognition of the pervasive challenges of rural health care, UNMC also offers programs such as the UNMC Nursing Rural Advantage Scholarship and the Nursing Rural Pathway program.
- Location: Students can study at many campuses throughout the state
- Duration: One to four years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
The College of Saint Mary offers a Nebraska Board of Nursing approved 128-credit bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree program. The program curriculum consists of nursing, general education, and supporting courses. Of the required total credit hours, students complete 69 credits in nursing, 41 credits in general education, 15 credit hours in supporting courses, and three credit hours in electives. Students immediately embark on laboratory and clinical practice in their first semester and continue such training throughout the program.
This program is designed as a day program that full-time students can complete in three years. Though students can transfer to the College of Saint Mary to complete their nursing education, a minimum of 30 credit hours applied toward their degree must be completed at the College of Saint Mary. Graduates are eligible to take the National Council of State Board of Nursing (NCLEX-RN) exam for registered nurses. After successfully passing the exam they may apply for licensure. Prospective students interested in practicing outside of Nebraska are recommended to research licensure requirements as they vary by state.
- Location: Omaha, NE
- Duration: Three years
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Nebraska Wesleyan University offers a traditional four-year bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree program. The curriculum incorporates clinical and foundational nursing coursework and liberal arts courses to provide students a comprehensive education. Small class sizes in which experienced faculty provide instruction in various specialized areas of nursing prove effective in achieving learning outcomes. Critical thinking, decision-making and communication skills are emphasized throughout the program. A majority of nursing courses are offered in an eight-week format.
Hands-on experience is a critical part of the program. This program requires the completion of at least 900 clinical hours of hands-on experience. Students also use skills and simulation labs to develop skills and confidence further. In addition, a preparatory course is included in the curriculum such that students can successfully pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).
However, admission and graduation from this program should not be construed as guaranteeing that students will be permitted to take the NCLEX-RN exam. Prospective students are recommended to research both the material tested in the exam and licensure requirements in the state where they intend to practice.
- Location: Lincoln, NE
- Duration: years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Accredited Graduate Nursing Programs in Nebraska
The University of Nebraska Medical Center offers a wealth of opportunities for nursing professionals seeking to advance their careers through a graduate degree. The master of science in nursing (MSN) degree program prepares students for advanced practice roles as nurse practitioners and administrators. The UNMC College of Nursing master’s degree program seeks applicants passionate about excellence in practice and scholarship, quality patient care and reducing health disparities often starkly evident between urban and rural populations.
The MSN program features nine specializations within two distinct roles. Those seeking to be nurse practitioners can specialize in adult-gerontology (subspecialties in acute or primary care), family nurse practitioner, pediatric primary care, pediatric primary and acute care, psychiatric mental health, and women’s health.
Students who elect to become nurse administrators can specialize as clinical nurse leaders or seek a dual MSN-MBA degree to fill roles requiring leadership and business skills. Students with an associate degree in nursing (ADN) can also pursue the nurse administrator track and become a nurse leader/executive.
- Location: Omaha, NE
- Duration: Approximately three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Creighton University (Online)
In addition to its highly regarded BSN program, Creighton University also offers a master of science in nursing (MSN) degree program. This advanced degree program allows students to study in one of two tracks. These tracks are the nurse education and nursing administration and leadership tracks.
These programs are offered online to give busy professionals the flexibility they typically need to complete their education while simultaneously managing their work and other commitments. Students may also choose between part- and full-time study. Though the programs are essentially completely online, students may need to visit the Omaha campus occasionally.
The MSN program in nursing administration and leadership is a 37-credit program designed to develop inspiring healthcare leaders. Meanwhile, the MSN in nursing education is a 39-credit program that trains professionals to effectively work as an educators in diverse settings. Jesuit teaching and learning principles are also incorporated into the design of this program.
- Location: Omaha, NE
- Duration: Two to three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Nebraska Wesleyan University offers nursing professionals three different options to pursue a master of science in nursing degree. Students can pursue an MSN and choose from one of two tracks. These tracks are the nurse educator and nurse leader tracks.
Nurse educators develop knowledge in educational theory and strategies for teaching, learn how to create curricula and community education programs, and also learn the fundamentals of evaluating and assessing such programs. Nurse leaders develop skills in working within complex healthcare systems to ultimately create and implement strategic plans that can improve the functioning of the healthcare industry.
NWU recognizes that many nursing professionals are increasingly expected not just to have nursing expertise but also to apply skills in business operations in their daily work. Nurses interested in developing such skills can pursue a 55-credit online dual MSN-MBA degree.
- Location: Lincoln, NE
- Duration: Two to three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Clarkson College (Online)
Clarkson College has received many awards in recent years in recognition of the quality of its nursing degree programming. The Clarkson College online master of science in nursing (MSN) degree program attracts RNs from Nebraska and across the United States. Recognizing the diverse roles nurses may fill, the MSN program offers five different specialties. These specialties are nursing healthcare administration, nursing education, family nurse practitioner, adult gerontology acute care nurse practitioner, and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.
The program features a rigorous and patient-centered curriculum designed to teach existing nurses to work both independently and collaboratively in creating, implementing, and evaluating the functioning of complex healthcare strategies and systems within a variety of advanced practice roles.
Additional program features include flexible course scheduling, clinical/practicum sites close to a student’s city or town of residence, and a compassionate, highly experienced faculty.
- Location: Omaha, NE
- Duration: 2.5 to five years
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
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 seeking to practice in Nebraska must seek licensure through the Nebraska State Board of Nursing. This board is responsible for the licensure of both registered and practical nurses. It is common for licensure requirements to include passing a criminal background check and 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 Nebraska?
These numbers, with the exception of nurse midwives, represent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics from May 2022—the latest data available as of early March 2024. Salary data for nurse midwives is drawn from Salary.com (2024) because no data was available from the BLS.
Licensed Practical Nurse Salaries
| United States | Nebraska | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 641,240 | 5,570 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $51,850 | $52,080 |
| 10th percentile | $37,150 | $40,190 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $48,070 | $50,680 |
| 90th percentile | $63,790 | $61,280 |
Registered Nurse Salaries
| United States | Nebraska | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 3,047,530 | 19,870 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $82,750 | $73,510 |
| 10th percentile | $59,450 | $58,900 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $77,600 | $74,990 |
| 90th percentile | $120,250 | $93,230 |
Nurse Anesthetist Salaries
| United States | Nebraska | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 43,950 | 400 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $202,470 | $225,590 |
| 10th percentile | $131,840 | $155,090 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $195,610 | $216,150 |
| 90th percentile | >$208,000 per year | >$239,200 |
Nurse Midwife Salaries
| United States | Nebraska | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 7,750 | Unavailable |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $114,210 | Unavailable |
| 10th percentile | $61,500 | $96,801 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $112,830 | $114,389 |
| 90th percentile | $166,170 | $143,569 |
Nurse Practitioner Salaries
| United States | Nebraska | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 234,690 | 1,610 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $118,040 | $118,970 |
| 10th percentile | $79,470 | $97,000 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $120,680 | $115,920 |
| 90th percentile | $163,350 | $146,320 |
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Licenses in Nebraska
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Nebraska LPN license application requirements include:
| In the state of Nebraska LPNs must renew their licenses every two years. To renew, candidates must meet one of the following requirements:
All renewal candidates must pay the $123 renewal fee. |
Registered Nurse (RN) Licenses in Nebraska
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services |
In the state of Nebraska, RN license application requirements include:
|
Nebraskan RNs must renew their licenses every two years. To renew, candidates must meet one of the following requirements:
All renewal candidates must pay the $123 renewal fee |
Nurse Practitioner (NP) Licenses in Nebraska
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
To be eligible for an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse-Nurse Practitioner (APRN-NP) license in the state of Nebraska, applicants must meet the following requirements:
|
Renewals APRN-NPs in Nebraska are required every two years. Each person holding an active APRN-NP license in Nebraska must, on or before the license expiration date, meet the continuing competency requirements determined by the certifying body. Nurse practitioners must attest to 2,080 hours of practice over the five years preceding renewal. |
Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) Licenses in Nebraska
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
To be eligible for a CNM license in the state of Nebraska, applicants must meet the following requirements:
|
Renewals for CNMs in Nebraska are required every two years. Each person holding an active advanced practice registered nursing license in Nebraska must, on or before the date of expiration of the license, meet the continuing competency requirements determined by the certifying body. |
Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) Licenses in Nebraska
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
To be eligible for a CRNA license in the state of Nebraska, applicants must meet the following requirements:
|
Renewals for CRNAs in Nebraska are required every two years. Each person holding an active advanced practice registered nursing license in Nebraska must, on or before the date of expiration of the license, meet the continuing competency requirements determined by the certifying body. |
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Licenses in Nebraska
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
To be eligible for a CNS license in the state of Nebraska, applicants must meet the following requirements:
|
Renewals for CNS licenses in Nebraska are required every two years. Each person holding an active advanced practice registered nursing license in Nebraska must, on or before the date of expiration of the license, meet the continuing competency requirements determined by the certifying body. |
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].