More than 74,000 nurses work in the state of Alabama, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation. This ranks Alabama among the top 20 states with the largest population of active nurses in the US. For current and aspiring RNs, LPNs and advanced practice nurses in the state, this means career opportunity, and the chance to climb the ladder through continued training and higher education. Read on to find top nursing schools in Alabama, a breakdown of the state's nursing field, and perhaps most importantly, what it takes to earn your license.
- Top Nursing Schools in Alabama
- Search Nursing Schools
- State Licensing Requirements
- Nursing by the Numbers
- Resources & Associations
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Methodology +
BEST 2-YEAR NURSING SCHOOLS
The top nursing programs listed in this state's ranking were determined by comparison of three primary, equally-weighted criteria including
- Student-to-faculty ration
- In-state tuition
- Graduation rate
Additional details for each school were included:
- Count of programs available
- Public and not-for-profit schools
- Normalized on a 100 percent curve
The methodology used for tie-break is as follows...
- Ties are broken based on lowest average net price for full-time, first-time undergraduates paying in-state tuition (average cost of tuition and expenses after grants and scholarships).
- If necessary, the lowest in-state tuition rate is used as a second tie-break
Top Nursing Schools in Alabama
These rankings include
#1 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Alabama [2022 Guide]
George C. Wallace State Community College-Selma
Selma, AL - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Students looking for a competitive, flexible education should consider George C. Wallace State Community College-Selma. The college's nursing programs provide enrollees with a world-class education. Students benefit from learning opportunities within and beyond the classroom. Degree-seekers can pursue collaborative projects such as faculty-driven research, internships, and more.
Working professionals and busy students benefit from the nursing program's flexibility. Enrollees can study in person or online. To date, the college supports two online programs. Whether in person or online, degree-seekers can access institutional resources and receive career and academic guidance throughout their studies.
George C. Wallace State Community College-Selma at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 25
Number of Online Programs: 2
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 31%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 95%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $6,947
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: Data not available
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: Data not available
Average Price After Aid: $3,759
#2 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Alabama [2022 Guide]
George C. Wallace State Community College-Hanceville
Hanceville, AL - 2 years
- Online + Campus
George C. Wallace State Community College-Hanceville supports in-person learning and distance learning opportunities from its main campus in Hanceville. Nursing students benefit from a supportive learning community, customizable study, and a 17-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio.
The school's nursing programs allow for in-person or online study. At the college, 7% of all programs accommodate remote learning. Enrollees can access numerous campus resources, including academic advising and career services.
George C. Wallace State Community College-Hanceville at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 82
Number of Online Programs: 6
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 44%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 79%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,125
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 28%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $5,774
Average Price After Aid: $7,094
#3 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Alabama [2022 Guide]
Coastal Alabama Community College
Bay Minette, AL - 2 years
- Campus
Coastal Alabama Community College is a Bay Minette-based college supporting academic programs in dual modalities. The school's nursing programs build theoretical and practical knowledge, preparing candidates for many careers in the field. Learners seeking supplementary study can benefit from faculty-driven research projects and other collaborative learning opportunities.
Working professionals and busy degree-seekers benefit from the nursing program's flexibility. Students can learn in person or online. Regardless of enrollment format, participants can access campus resources including academic advising, library services, and tutoring.
Coastal Alabama Community College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 66
Number of Online Programs: Data not available
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 16%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 87%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,988
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 20%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $5,555
Average Price After Aid: $9,324
#4 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Alabama [2022 Guide]
Central Alabama Community College
Alexander City, AL - 2 years
- Campus
Central Alabama Community College is an Alexander City-based college supporting academic programs in dual modalities. Its programs, such as the associate of applied science in nursing, foster learning through a robust program curriculum and supportive learning community. Degree-seekers can pursue research projects and other learning opportunities to enhance their knowledge.
Depending on their needs, students can complete the program in person or online. All degree-seekers can access campus resources while enrolled, including career services and academic advising.
Central Alabama Community College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 29
Number of Online Programs: Data not available
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 17%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 92%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,554
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 16%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $4,793
Average Price After Aid: $4,852
#5 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Alabama [2022 Guide]
Lurleen B. Wallace Community College
Andalusia, AL - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Lurleen B. Wallace Community College reaches learners worldwide through its flexible academic programs, available in person and online. Learners seeking flexible study in nursing will benefit from the college's associate of applied science in nursing. The program boasts a 17-to-1 student-to-aculty ratio, enabling collaborative endeavors such as faculty-driven research projects.
Enrollees can complete the nursing program on campus or online. Distance learners can choose from two fully online degrees. Degree candidates benefit from academic and professional guidance through academic advising, career services, and other campus resources.
Lurleen B. Wallace Community College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 30
Number of Online Programs: 2
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 38%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 96%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,497
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: Data not available
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: Data not available
Average Price After Aid: $8,127
#6 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Alabama [2022 Guide]
Gadsden State Community College
Gadsden, AL - 2 years
- Online + Campus
A public institution, Gadsden State Community College operates a main campus in Gadsden. Learners looking to advance in the nursing field should consider the college's nursing education program. Students hoping to deepen their knowledge can collaborate with faculty members on research projects and other endeavors.
Degree-seekers often take advantage of online and hybrid offerings, which add flexibility for working students. The institution notes that 22% of its programs enable online study. Regardless of learning modality, distance learners can access institutional resources, such as career services, geared toward student success.
Gadsden State Community College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 65
Number of Online Programs: 14
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 25%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 80%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,420
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: Data not available
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: Data not available
Average Price After Aid: $4,960
#7 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Alabama [2022 Guide]
Northeast Alabama Community College
Rainsville, AL - 2 years
- Campus
A leader in higher education, Northeast Alabama Community College provides educational opportunities to Rainsville-based students and distance learners. The college's nursing programs equip students with industry-relevant knowledge, preparing them for the demands of a nursing career. With an 18-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, enrollees benefit from personalized study. Degree candidates can explore collaborative opportunities such as faculty-driven research projects.
The nursing program accommodates both in-person and remote study. Learners can access library services, tutoring, and other campus resources during their studies.
Northeast Alabama Community College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 42
Number of Online Programs: Data not available
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 46%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 93%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $6,003
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 10%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $3,754
Average Price After Aid: $3,137
#8 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Alabama [2022 Guide]
George C. Wallace Community College-Dothan
Dothan, AL - 2 years
- Campus
Students looking for a competitive, flexible education should consider George C. Wallace Community College-Dothan. Its programs, such as the associate degree in nursing, foster learning through a robust program curriculum and supportive learning community in person and online. While completing coursework, degree-seekers can also pursue experiential learning opportunities such as faculty-driven research projects and internships.
Nursing students benefit from dual enrollment formats. Learners can study in person or remotely. All degree-seekers can access institutional resources and receive personal and professional guidance.
George C. Wallace Community College-Dothan at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 41
Number of Online Programs: Data not available
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 31%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 88%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $7,601
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: Data not available
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: Data not available
Average Price After Aid: $2,347
#9 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Alabama [2022 Guide]
Bevill State Community College
Jasper, AL - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Bevill State Community College is a Jasper-based college supporting academic programs in dual modalities. Learners seeking robust study in the nursing field will benefit from the college's nursing programs. The collaborative programs feature opportunities for research projects and other learning experiences.
Degree-seekers can study online or in person depending on their scheduling needs. To date, the college supports six online programs. Students can access library services, tutoring, and other campus resources during their program.
Bevill State Community College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 51
Number of Online Programs: 6
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 28%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 92%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,687
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: Data not available
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: Data not available
Average Price After Aid: $8,328
#10 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Alabama [2022 Guide]
Southern Union State Community College
Wadley, AL - 2 years
- Campus
Southern Union State Community College provides diverse learning opportunities from its main campus in Wadley. Students in the school's nursing programs benefit from world-class faculty and a well-rounded education. Learners complete foundational and advanced coursework, gaining a well-rounded education preparing them for the demands of the nursing field.
Working professionals and busy students benefit from the program's flexibility. Enrollees can study in person or online. Distance learners can access library services, tutoring, and other campus resources during their studies.
Southern Union State Community College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 67
Number of Online Programs: Data not available
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 22%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 81%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $6,107
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 20%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $5,429
Average Price After Aid: $8,278
#11 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Alabama [2022 Guide]
Snead State Community College
Boaz, AL - 2 years
- Campus
A public institution, Snead State Community College operates a main campus in Boaz. The school's health sciences programs prepares students for future careers through foundational and specialized coursework. The program boasts a 20-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, enabling collaborative endeavors such as faculty-driven research projects.
Working professionals and busy students benefit from the programs' flexibility. Degree-seekers can study on campus or online. Regardless of enrollment format, participants can access campus resources including academic advising, library services, and tutoring.
Snead State Community College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 25
Number of Online Programs: Data not available
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 40%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 89%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $6,391
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 20%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $5,352
Average Price After Aid: $5,430
#12 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Alabama [2022 Guide]
Chattahoochee Valley Community College
Phenix City, AL - 2 years
- Campus
Chattahoochee Valley Community College is a Phenix City-based college supporting academic programs in dual modalities. The school's associate in nursing program prepares students for future careers through foundational and specialized coursework. The program boasts a 15-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, enabling collaborative endeavors such as faculty-driven research projects.
Nursing enrollees can often take advantage of online and hybrid offerings, which add flexibility for working students. Whether degree-seekers study in person or online, they can access institutional resources and receive career and academic guidance throughout their studies.
Chattahoochee Valley Community College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 30
Number of Online Programs: Data not available
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 19%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 97%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $6,363
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 25%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $2,679
Average Price After Aid: $975
#13 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Alabama [2022 Guide]
Northwest-Shoals Community College
Muscle Shoals, AL - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Northwest-Shoals Community College is a public college located in Muscle Shoals. The college's nursing programs provide students with transferrable skills and knowledge necessary for the nursing field. With a 17-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, enrollees benefit from personalized study. Degree candidates can pursue collaborative opportunities such as faculty-driven research projects.
The program accommodates both in-person and remote study. Online learners can choose from one of two fully online programs. Regardless of enrollment format, participants can access campus resources including academic advising, library services, and tutoring.
Northwest-Shoals Community College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 48
Number of Online Programs: 2
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 24%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 89%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $4,585
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 18%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $5,134
Average Price After Aid: $8,091
#14 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Alabama [2022 Guide]
Bishop State Community College
Mobile, AL - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Bishop State Community College connects learners with competitive educational opportunities through in-person and online programs. Enrollees hoping to advance in a nursing-adjacent career will benefit from the college's associate of applied science in nursing program. Students can explore learning opportunities within and beyond the classroom. Some possibilities include faculty-driven research and internships.
Degree-seekers can often take advantage of online and hybrid offerings, which add flexibility for working students. Of all its programs, 35% run online. Regardless of enrollment format, participants can access campus resources including academic advising, library services, and tutoring.
Bishop State Community College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 40
Number of Online Programs: 14
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 28%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 89%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $4,763
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: Data not available
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: Data not available
Average Price After Aid: $5,735
#15 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Alabama [2022 Guide]
John C. Calhoun State Community College
Tanner, AL - 2 years
- Online + Campus
John C. Calhoun State Community College is a Tanner-based college supporting academic programs in dual modalities. The school's nursing programs equips students with a well-rounded education through its rigorous curriculum. Enrollees benefit from learning opportunities within and beyond the classroom. Degree-seekers can pursue collaborative projects such as faculty-driven research, internships, and more.
Learners seeking further opportunities for study can pursue internships or collaborate with faculty on research projects. To date, the college supports two online programs. Career services and academic advising are just two of the many campus resources available to learners.
John C. Calhoun State Community College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 34
Number of Online Programs: 2
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 26%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 80%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $4,995
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 20%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $4,860
Average Price After Aid: $5,282
Nursing Licensing in Alabama
All nurses must be licensed in order to practice; however, each state has its own requirements and regulations for registered nurses, nurse practitioners, and nurse midwives. The Alabama Board of Nursing (ABN) is the government agency that regulates the state's nursing education and nursing practice. ABN also oversees all licensing requirements, from application to verification to renewal and reinstatement. Below is an overview of first-time licensure requirements for registered nurses who wish to work in Alabama:
Eligibility Requirements
- Successfully completed either a 2-year associate degree, 4-year baccalaureate degree, or a 2 or 3-year diploma nursing program from an accredited nursing school
- Apply for licensure with ABN, which includes a $75 initial application fee
- Request your school send official, sealed transcriptions to ABN
- Provide detailed explanation and records if you answer “Yes” to any of the legal background questions
- Register to take the NCLEX exam and send a $200 payment to Pearson Vue
- Provide one-time proof of US Citizenship or Lawful Presence in the United States. Non-citizens with other documents are required to show this information during initial licensure and each renewal after.
- Schedule an exam after you've received an Authorization to Test (ATT) letter form Pearson VUE (proper identification, such as a Department of Motor Vehicle-issued US driver's license, DMV-issued state identification, US military identification, or valid passport, will be required on exam day)
- RNs who have licensure from another state, can apply for an Alabama license through licensure by endorsement
Alabama Nursing Schools
From community colleges to large four-year universities, aspiring nurses can choose from several Alabama nursing schools to achieve their career goals. Use the search tool below to filter and explore Alabama schools that offer quality education for nurses of tomorrow.
Nurse Licensure in Alabama
Nurses must be licensed in order to practice in every state in the country. However, each state sets its own standards and requirements for licensing and renewal. ASBN is the government agency that regulates nursing education and practice for registered nurses, certified midwives, nurse anesthetists, and certified nurse practitioners in Alabama. ASBN also oversees all licensing requirements for these professions, from application to renewal and reinstatement. Below is an overview of first-time licensure requirements for registered nurses in Alabama.
Eligibility Requirements
- Diploma, Associate Degree or Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing from an approved program. (Alabama graduates must submit a Certificate of Completion from an approved program.)
- Register for NCLEX exam and include a $200 registration fee
- Earn a passing score on NCLEX exam
- Submit a paper application with $300 fee to Alabama State Board of Nursing by mail only
- Provide citizenship documentation
- Submit a fingerprint card with a full set of fingerprints to the Alabama State Board of Nursing for the purpose of obtaining State and Federal criminal record checks along with $50 fee
Renewal in Alabama
Alabama RNs need to renew their license every two years (in even-numbered years) between September 1st and December 31st to continue practicing. As part of the process, nurses are required to complete 24 contact hours of continuing education (CE) from board-approved providers. There is a $75 license fee and a $3.50 transaction fee. Those who miss the designated timeframe will be subject to a $150 late fee.
Registered nurses who wish to reinstate a license to active status will need to submit a reinstatement application, pay a fee, provide proof of US Citizenship or Lawful Presence, and complete 24 contact hours within two years of submitting the reinstatement application. These hours can be completed through workshops, seminars, classes, web casts, continuing education journals, pod casts, and home study.
Licensing for Advanced Practice Nurses in AL
RNs and LPNs make up a majority of the nursing field. However, a variety of advanced and specialty nurses also work in Alabama, including nurse practitioners (NPs), certified midwives, neonatal nurses, and forensic nurses. And, like RNs and LPNs, specific licensing requirements exist to ensure those who work within these niches have the right training and experience. In addition to the licensure requirements discussed in the previous section, advanced practice nurses must also complete a few a more steps:
- Must have an active Alabama RN license
- Must meet all requirements for clinical experience in the specialty beyond basic educational preparation as a registered nurse
- Must hold at least a master's degree in advanced practice nursing from an accredited program (the Board of Nursing may waive this requirement at its discretion or if the applicant meets certain academic criteria)
For more detailed information on advanced and specialty nursing licensing and licensure renewal in Alabama, please visit the Alabama Board of Nursing.
Nursing by the Numbers in Alabama: RNs and Beyond
Employment of registered nurses in the U.S. is projected to grow 19 percent from 2012 to 2022, faster than average in comparison to all occupations. Registered nurses were the second most in-demand job in the state as of September 2015. Additionally, Alabama also offers promising opportunities for nurse midwives and nurse practitioners. Take a look at the numbers below.
Top-Paying Areas for RNs in Alabama
| Area | Hourly Median Wage | Annual Median Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Montgomery | $27.84 | $57,900 |
| Tuscaloosa | $27.45 | $57,110 |
| Birmingham-Hoover | $27.26 | $56,700 |
| Huntsville | $26.97 | $56,090 |
| Northwest Alabama nonmetropolitan area | $26.94 | $56,040 |
| Auburn-Opelika | $26.41 | $54,940 |
| Southwest Alabama nonmetropolitan area | $26.17 | $54,430 |
| Southeast Alabama nonmetropolitan area | $26.12 | $54,320 |
| Mobile | $25.99 | $54,060 |
| Northeast Alabama nonmetropolitan area | $25.40 | $52,840 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2014
Alabama vs. National Numbers
Resources & Associations for Alabama Nurses
The Alabama Board of Nursing, or ABN, is the state government agency that oversees nursing education across Alabama. The organization also enforces legal standards for nursing practice, including licensure, renewal, and endorsements.
The Alabama League for Nursing is an affiliate of the National League for Nursing. It is dedicated to advancing the quality of nursing education in the state.
Alabama Organization of Nurse Executives
AlaONE is an affiliate of the Alabama Hospital Association. It promotes the advancement of nursing practice and patient care, as well as helps shape policies that directly affect health care delivery.Alabama State Nurses Association
This organization promotes excellence in nursing in AL and acts as the professional voice for all registered nurses in the state.
Central Alabama Nurse Practitioner Association
The Central Alabama Nurse Practitioner Association offers advanced practice nurses opportunities for networking, legislative updates, and access to timely continuing education programs.