Online Nursing Schools in WY: Inside Top Programs

Profiling Online Nursing Programs in Wyoming

There are online nursing programs available for any level of education, from non-degree undergraduate programs to postgraduate doctorates. These programs also vary in course offerings and tuition costs. However, it’s important to know that many online nursing programs in Wyoming do have at least a partially hybrid element, with clinical rotations which you will take in a hospital or other clinical facility. Other programs may also require you to come to campus for labs and other hands-on classes. With that in mind, check out the different online nursing degrees you can earn in Wyoming:

Online Undergraduate Programs

For students new to nursing, whether you’re fresh out of high school or looking for a career change, you might be a good candidate for an undergraduate nursing program. These can span anywhere from a few months to several years and include degree and non-degree options.

Graduate and Post-Graduate Nursing Programs

For experienced nurses looking to specialize their nursing career, or take on a leadership role within nursing, a graduate or postgraduate nursing program can be an important step. These programs include both practical and research degrees, depending on your preferred program, and often take several years to complete.

Bridge Programs in Wyoming

For students who want to build off their previous nursing studies to earn a more advanced qualification, bridge degree programs help you do just that. These programs, which can vary in length depending on the degree and your previous experience, include both undergraduate and graduate programs.

Licensing for Registered Nurses in Wyoming

While your nursing education is a critical part of becoming a nurse in Wyoming, it’s not the full story. Nursing is a crucial healthcare role with many responsibilities, and as such, there is an extensive process to become licensed. Read on for a step-by-step guide to becoming a licensed Wyoming nurse:

1 – Earn an Accredited Nursing Degree

You must successfully complete either a diploma, associate degree, or bachelor’s degree program in nursing from an accredited school and program that qualifies you to sit for the NCLEX. Some nurses can complete a board-approved refresher course if they are already licensed in a reciprocal state, although you should check with the Wyoming State Board of Nursing about license transfer requirements if you are already licensed elsewhere.

2 – Pass Your NCLEX-RN Exam

Once you have completed your training program, you must pass the NCLEX exam. This is an important milestone that all future nurses must pass before they can become officially licensed and begin practicing their profession. The NCLEX comprises multiple-choice questions that test your knowledge of medical procedures, practices, patient care techniques, and safety protocols. Your program may include NCLEX study materials, but independent study resources are also available.

3 – Apply for Licensure in Wyoming

After passing the NCLEX test, the next step is to apply for licensure with the Wyoming State Board of Nursing (WSBON). This requires submitting an application form along with any required supporting documents, such as transcripts from your nursing school and proof of citizenship/legal residency status. Your application will then be reviewed by WSBON staff, who will determine if you meet all requirements set forth by WSBON for licensure in Wyoming.

4 – Maintain Your RN Licensure

Even after you have your nursing license, you’ll need to make sure it stays current. In Wyoming, nursing licenses must be renewed every five years, and you will need to prove that you have worked as a nurse or CNA for at least 500 hours over this five year period. WSBON has a full list of procedures and requirements for licensure renewal available on their website.

5 – Specialize (Optional)

As you advance in your nursing career, you may want to specialize in a particular area of nursing, such as nurse anesthesiology or nurse midwifery. If you do decide that you want to specialize in one of these fields, you may need to pursue a graduate degree, such as an MSN or DNP, or depending on the specialization in question, you may be able to get the qualifications you need through a post-master’s certificate.

Salary & Career Info for Wyoming RNs

Wyoming offers a favorable employment outlook for Registered Nurses (RNs), with an expected 11.9% growth rate by 2030. This increase will add approximately 610 new RN positions, reflecting a stronger growth rate than the national average. Annual openings for RNs in Wyoming are projected to be around 350 due to growth, retirements, and turnover. In terms of earnings, the median annual salary for RNs across the state is $79,970, with the potential for those in the 90th percentile to earn up to $105,800. Regional variations exist, with Cheyenne offering a median salary of $86,560 and a high-end earning potential of $120,700, while Casper has a median of $77,760. These figures suggest Wyoming provides competitive wages and strong growth prospects, making it a compelling choice for RNs seeking a career in a less densely populated state with attractive employment conditions.