Idaho offers many options when it comes to choosing a top nursing program that will fit your needs, including hybrid online options that combine in-person clinical requirements and virtual courses. This guide provides insight into some of Idaho’s nursing programs, with a range of suggestions from undergraduate certificates to doctorates. We also detail salary and career potential for nursing in Idaho while also walking you through the steps of registered nurse licensing. If you’re ready to begin the transition to a healthcare career, continue on. Why Trust EduMed? We partner with 150+ nursing & allied health professionals to bring you the most in-depth data & insights on higher education & careers in healthcare. Meet our team and review our editorial values.Online Nursing Schools in ID: Your Guide to Top Programs
Inside Different Types of Online Nursing Programs in Idaho
From certificates that can lead to a quick start in nursing to becoming an RN to doctorates that offer the highest levels of education and opportunity, there are plenty of options for Idaho’s prospective nursing students. Some courses offer online formats, meaning that the theoretical work will take place virtually while the practical work will be done on site with in-person clinicals for on-the-job training and instruction.
In the entries below, we explore some of the best nursing schools in Idaho, what they require, what they cost, and the post-graduation opportunities for nurses that earn certificates or degrees. We also talk about bridge programs, which can result in accelerated degree time frames and use of transfer credits for students. Read on to see the different program types available to you.
Undergraduate Programs in Idaho
Idaho offers a variety of nursing programs for students at different points in their nursing education and career. Any format from traditional to online to hybrid learning options is available. Here are some of the most common selections.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Becoming a CNA means you will be taught by and work under the supervision of experienced registered nurses. Students learn the basic patient care skills and quality upkeep that is needed for patient rooms and care areas, as well as measuring vital signs and conducting safe patient transfers. Apart from supporting RNs, CNAs will also work with LPNs.
Example: Gritman Medical Center
- Cost: Tuition is $1,700
- Length: Eight weeks
- Mode: Hybrid
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Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
LPNs offer basic medical care to patients. In order to become an LPN in Idaho, students must complete an accredited program that combines coursework, laboratory experience, clinical practice in a physical healthcare setting, and the NCLEX-PN exam. LPNs will often complete a shorter certificate program than those who opt for the RN route.
Example: Eagle Gate College
- Cost: Tuition is $18,645
- Length: 12 months
- Mode: Hybrid
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
ADNs are for students who want a speedy and affordable path to becoming an RN with little to no college education. These ADN programs make the NCLEX-RN exam accessible for those who want to make the transition into the healthcare field.
Example: Joyce University
- Cost: Tuition is $55,810
- Length: 20 months to 2 years
- Mode: Hybrid
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
BSNs usually take around four years for full time students to complete, with graduates able to become registered nurses and work in various healthcare environments. Coursework will often include a variety of subjects such as physiology, nursing theory, pharmacology, and others.
Example: Idaho State University
- Cost: Tuition is $23,978
- Length: Four years
- Mode: Hybrid
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
Students with a bachelor’s degree in other disciplines can benefit from the pace of an ABSN program. Those who pursue this type of program can use their prior studies, skipping the need for general courses and focusing solely on nursing content. Coursework can often include studies on case management, health promotion, critical thinking, and leadership along with more advanced care techniques.
Example: Idaho State University
- Cost: $18,304
- Length: 18 months
- Mode: Hybrid
Post-Bachelor’s and Graduate Degree Programs
There is some online availability for master’s degrees, doctorates, and post-master certificate programs among the schools in Idaho. Each of these offerings can help you gain more advanced nursing experience that leads to higher-paying and more responsible roles in the healthcare industry. Here’s a look at some examples.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
For those hoping to get into higher-level roles in nursing, MSN programs are the way to go. Depending on the program, students can either gain a BSN as well during the process or skip straight to obtaining the advanced MSN only.
Example: Lewis-Clark State College
- Cost: $7,610
- Length: 3 years
- Mode: Hybrid
DNP and PhD Doctoral Programs
DNP degrees are best for those seeking leadership roles with a focus on evidence-based practice. On the other hand, obtaining a PhD in Nursing could be preferable for those who want to advance the field through research or teaching higher-level education to the next generations of nurses.
Example: Idaho State University
- Cost: Tuition is $39,438
- Length: Three years
- Mode: Hybrid
Bridge Programs: Entry-Level Certificates to Advanced Nursing Degrees
Although there are limitations to the types of online on hybrid bridge programs available in the state, Idaho does have some options for nurses who have earned associate or bachelor’s degrees who want to spend less time earning further education. Here are explanations of each type of program with examples we could find in Idaho.
LPN to RN and LPN to BSN
LPN to RN programs give current LPNs the chance to further their studies and advance as RNs by building on their education with higher, relevant coursework and preparing them to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam. Similarly, LPN to BSN programs allow current LPNs to earn their bachelor’s degree through combined online and in-person learning to eventually sit for the same exam. It’s important to note that there are no online LPN to RN or LPN to BSN options in Idaho.
RN to BSN
RN to BSN programs are for currently-licensed RNs who want to expand their nursing knowledge beyond clinical aspects. Curriculum can include classes about leadership, research, and population health. Students can directly transfer relevant past courses or take challenge exams for prerequisite needs.
Example: Lewis-Clark State College
- Cost: Tuition is $9,628
- Length: 16 months
- Mode: Online
RN to MSN
This type of bridge course allows those with an ADN to advance to an MSN by filling in the knowledge requirements for graduate-level nursing. Online coursework often combines with clinical rotations in local facilities, which offers specialized opportunities for students such as roles as nurse practitioners. Unfortunately, no online RN to MSN programs exist in Idaho.
BSN to DNP
The time to earn a doctorate in nursing is greatly reduced for this type of BSN to DNP program. BSN to DNP programs are for RNs with a bachelor’s degree. There are different pathways to obtaining a doctorate, including specialization as a family nurse or adult-gerontology nurse practitioner.
Example: Boise State University
- Cost: Tuition is $57,400
- Length: Three years
- Mode: Online
Direct-Entry MSN
Prospective students with bachelor’s degrees of a non-nursing background that want a relatively quick path to entry for the healthcare field are perfect candidates for direct-entry MSNs. Students are usually required to gain clinical experience at on-site facilities to complement their classroom learning. No online or hybrid direct-entry MSN programs currently exist in Idaho.
Registered Nurse Licensing Guidelines and Requirements in Idaho
The Idaho Board of Nursing (IBN) dictates practice requirements and oversees licensure for nurses in the state and they follow a specific process. See below for the complete steps required to become a licensed nurse in Idaho, as well as some educational ideas to think about once you receive your license.
1 – Nursing Degree with the Right Accreditation
Be sure to select an accredited nursing school in Idaho that aligns best with your educational needs. Nursing schools are known for their competitive admissions processes, so applying to more than one is not uncommon and increases your likelihood of acceptance. Once you finish the program, be sure to secure transcripts from it along with the specific certificate or degree. You will need to present both of these at various steps along the way (including securing future nursing education).
2 – Successfully Complete the NCLEX-RN Exam
Once students have completed coursework and required clinical hours to take the NCLEX, they will need to create an online account and sign up with the IBN. Next, send the official transcripts from your nursing program to the IBN and pay the $118 fee for initial licensure. Once the IBN has confirmed your transcripts, you will be eligible to take the NCLEX, which is the standard for licensure in Idaho (and many other states). Be sure to thoroughly prepare for the exam to pass on your first try, using resources such as a beginner’s guides to the NCLEX or practice exams.
3 – Submit an Application for State Licensure
There are application fees, as well as ones for a fingerprinting-oriented background check, as part of the IBN’s state licensure requirements for RNs. You’ll also need to complete an application and ensure that the IBN has received your transcripts from the exam step above. The application and processing time is usually within 5 to 10 business days, and you can check application status through the IBN’s online portal. Once done, you can find work as an RN and navigate healthcare job offers.
4 – Keep Your License Current and Renewed
Idaho RN licenses expire in odd-numbered years and must be renewed by Aug. 31 of that year to remain active. Currently, the renewal fee is $90. Idaho also requires all LPNs and RNs to have a minimum of 15 continuing education hours every two years for renewal. These can be obtained through colleges, universities, and healthcare organizations that have an educational department. All of these can provide transcripts as proof that you completed the required continuing education.
5 – Pursue Advanced Certifications (Optional)
Many Idaho nurses may decide to continue with their education, but they will earn certifications instead of earning an additional full degree. Among the most popular specialty certifications are CCRN, or Certified Critical Care Nurse; NP, or Certified Nurse Practitioner; CNM, or Certified Nurse Midwife; or pediatric nurse. Earning one of these certifications can lead to greater responsibility, more leadership roles at a healthcare business, and increased pay. Most college and universities have specific programs for certifications.
Career Growth for Idaho’s Registered Nurses
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | $63,720 | $86,070 | $132,680 |
| Idaho | $62,210 | $80,130 | $105,300 |
| Boise City, ID | $64,620 | $84,320 | $108,340 |
| Coeur d'Alene, ID | $59,950 | $79,350 | $100,730 |
| Idaho Falls, ID | $59,670 | $71,430 | $87,840 |
| Lewiston, ID-WA | $66,660 | $81,880 | $108,530 |
| Pocatello, ID | $60,210 | $77,540 | $99,670 |
| Twin Falls, ID | $66,340 | $67,410 | $96,920 |
Source: Registered Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area ↕ | Curr. Jobs ↕ | Proj. Jobs ↕ | New Jobs ↕ | Growth % ↕ | Avg. Ann. Openings ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 3,172,500 | 3,349,900 | 177,400 | 5.60% | 193,100 |
| Idaho | 15,480 | 18,580 | 3,100 | 20.00% | 1,230 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Review of the Top Online Options for Nursing Training in Idaho
Here is a list of what we consider to be the best online nursing programs in the state. Each of these schools provided information to the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System, or IPEDS. The selected schools meet our criteria in terms of accreditation, online offerings, and availability of career placement and academic counseling. Among the rankings are metrics for number of partial or fully online programs, average in-state tuition, and the percentage of students who have received an award in the past six years. Discover which schools made it onto our list by continuing below.
Idaho State University
Pocatello, Idaho
Why We Selected Idaho State University:
- Idaho State University's online programs offer flexible asynchronous and synchronous delivery options.
- The programs allow students to complete clinical activities at their own location, enhancing convenience.
- Students benefit from a variety of delivery options, including mostly online courses with limited face-to-face meetings.
Program Details
- AccreditationNWCCU
- Average In-State Tuition$5,928
- Average Institutional Aid$5,363
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course54%
- % of Students Receiving an Award36%
- Student/Faculty Ratio13/1
Boise State University
Boise, Idaho
Why We Selected Boise State University:
- Boise State's nursing program offers over $3.2 million in scholarships over three years.
- The program features a low faculty-to-student ratio of 1:10 for enhanced clinical experience.
- Strong partnerships with local healthcare facilities provide unique clinical opportunities and job connections.
Program Details
- AccreditationNWCCU
- Average In-State Tuition$5,532
- Average Institutional Aid$9,838
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course62%
- % of Students Receiving an Award51%
- Student/Faculty Ratio20/1
Lewis-Clark State College
Lewiston, Idaho
Why We Selected Lewis-Clark State College:
- The program offers a seamless pathway for nurses with an associate degree to complete bridge coursework and enter the MSN program.
- Lewis-Clark State College's nursing program boasts top licensure pass rates among Idaho's public institutions.
- The MSN program includes a 500-hour practicum experience, preparing graduates for national certification examinations.
Program Details
- AccreditationNWCCU
- Average In-State Tuition$6,982
- Average Institutional Aid$4,412
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course51%
- % of Students Receiving an Award40%
- Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘24-’25 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves.
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic counseling on campus and/or online.
- The existence of career placement services on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area. Because exact numbers change often and can be difficult to verify, we use a range-based scoring system to represent this category with laptop icons.
- % in Online Ed. – Percent of total students taking at least one distance education class.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time, as self-reported by the school.
- % Receiving Award – Percent of full-time, first-time students receiving an award in 6 years.
- Avg. Inst. Aid – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2024
