Iowa has more than 33,000 registered nurses, some of whom are advanced practice nurses. That means one out of every 100 Iowans is a nurse. But more are needed. Iowa lawmakers and healthcare advocates are aware of the challenges facing the nursing industry over the next decade and are working to make nursing a desirable degree plan for college students. Read on to find out more about nursing schools in Iowa, salaries, and licensure requirements in the state.
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Methodology
Top Nursing Schools in Iowa
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Iowa
Indian Hills Community College
Ottumwa, IA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Indian Hills Community College connects learners with competitive educational opportunities through in-person and online programs. The LPN program prepares students for professional advancement through industry-relevant coursework, lectures, and projects. Enrollees hoping to deepen their knowledge can collaborate with faculty members on research projects and other endeavors.
Leading in online education, the college supports five online programs. Career services and academic advising are just two of the many campus resources available to learners.
Indian Hills Community College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 85
Number of Online Programs: 5
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 38%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 91%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $4,865
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 33%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $5,250
Average Price After Aid: $7,057
#2 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Iowa
Hawkeye Community College
Waterloo, IA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
A public institution, Hawkeye Community College operates a main campus in Waterloo. The school's certified nursing assistant program builds theoretical and practical knowledge, preparing candidates for many careers in the field. The program boasts a 17-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, enabling collaborative endeavors such as faculty-driven research projects.
Nursing students benefit from flexible study, with the option to pursue in-person or online learning. Participants can enroll full or part time. At the college, 1% of all programs accommodate remote learning. Enrollees benefit from access to campus resources, such as career services and academic advising.
Hawkeye Community College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 71
Number of Online Programs: 1
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 29%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 81%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $4,479
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 31%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $5,618
Average Price After Aid: $10,666
#3 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Iowa
Northwest Iowa Community College
Sheldon, IA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Northwest Iowa Community College supports numerous programs, both in person and online, from its main campus in Sheldon. The college's certified nurse aide program equips students with industry-relevant study, preparing them for the demands of a nursing career. The college boasts a 13-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, enabling personalized study and close collaboration through faculty-driven research projects.
Depending on their needs, students can complete the program in person or online. Approximately 30% of the college's programs include online options. Throughout their studies, enrollees can access academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.
Northwest Iowa Community College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 33
Number of Online Programs: 10
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 69%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 83%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $4,825
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 19%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $5,774
Average Price After Aid: $11,288
#4 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Iowa
Northeast Iowa Community College
Calmar, IA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Northeast Iowa Community College supports in-person learning and distance learning opportunities from its main campus in Calmar. The college's associate of applied science in nursing equips students with industry-relevant study, preparing them for the demands of a nursing career. While completing coursework, degree-seekers can also pursue experiential learning opportunities such as faculty-driven research projects and internships.
With the college supporting in-person and online study, learners can pursue their studies at their own pace. Distance learners can choose from one of seven fully online degrees. Degree candidates can access institutional resources and receive personal and professional guidance.
Northeast Iowa Community College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 75
Number of Online Programs: 7
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 45%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 82%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $4,206
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 24%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $5,552
Average Price After Aid: $10,328
#5 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Iowa
Western Iowa Tech Community College
Sioux City, IA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Western Iowa Tech Community College reaches learners worldwide through its flexible academic programs, available in person and online. The college's nursing programs equip students with industry-relevant study, preparing them for the demands of a nursing career. With a 16-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, enrollees benefit from personalized study and the opportunity for collaborative opportunities such as faculty-driven research.
With the college supporting in-person and online study, enrollees can pursue their studies at their own pace. Online programs make up 17% of the college's programs. Learners can access library services, tutoring, and other campus resources during their studies.
Western Iowa Tech Community College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 101
Number of Online Programs: 17
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 40%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 92%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $4,408
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 35%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $5,008
Average Price After Aid: $7,710
#6 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Iowa
Southwestern Community College
Creston, IA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Southwestern Community College, a public college, is located in Creston. The college's associate in nursing program equips students with industry-relevant study, preparing them for the demands of a nursing career. With a 15-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, enrollees benefit from personalized study and the opportunity for collaborative opportunities such as faculty-driven research.
Degree-seekers benefit from dual enrollment formats. They can learn in person or remotely. Of all programs offered through the college, 6% can be completed fully online. Throughout their studies, degree candidates can access institutional resources, benefiting from academic and career advising, library services, and more.
Southwestern Community College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 36
Number of Online Programs: 2
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 49%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 93%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,515
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 27%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $5,626
Average Price After Aid: $8,740
#7 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Iowa
Eastern Iowa Community College District
Davenport, IA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Students looking for a competitive, flexible education should consider Eastern Iowa Community College District. The school's associate of applied science in nursing prepares enrollees for future careers through foundational and specialized coursework. While completing coursework, learners can also pursue experiential learning opportunities such as faculty-driven research projects and internships.
The program accommodates both in-person and remote study. To date, the college supports 15 online programs. Degree candidates seeking academic and career guidance can benefit from the college's many resources, such as career services and academic advising.
Eastern Iowa Community College District at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 92
Number of Online Programs: 15
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 37%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 85%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $4,300
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 21%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $4,936
Average Price After Aid: $9,996
#8 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Iowa
Kirkwood Community College
Cedar Rapids, IA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Cedar Rapids, Kirkwood Community College provides a flexible, competitive education to students near and far. The associate degree in nursing prepares students for professional advancement through industry-relevant coursework, lectures, and projects. Enrollees can pursue collaborative learning opportunities, such as faculty-driven research projects, to supplement their learning.
Degree-seekers benefit from flexible study, with the option to pursue in-person or online learning. Students can enroll full or part time. The college offers four fully online degrees. Both in-person and remote students benefit from institutional resources, like academic advising and career services.
Kirkwood Community College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 118
Number of Online Programs: 4
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 32%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 83%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,101
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 29%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $5,300
Average Price After Aid: $9,824
#9 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Iowa
Southeastern Community College
West Burlington, IA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Southeastern Community College connects learners with competitive educational opportunities through in-person and online programs. Students seeking flexible study in nursing will benefit from the college's associate degree in nursing. Degree-seekers can pursue collaborative projects such as faculty-driven research, internships, and more.
Working professionals and busy students benefit from the program's flexibility. Enrollees can learn in person or online. To date, 13% of the college's programs enable online study. Degree candidates seeking academic and career guidance can benefit from the college's many resources, such as career services and academic advising.
Southeastern Community College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 45
Number of Online Programs: 6
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 31%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 87%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,780
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 26%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $5,977
Average Price After Aid: $6,936
#10 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Iowa
North Iowa Area Community College
Mason City, IA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
North Iowa Area Community College supports numerous programs, both in person and online, from its main campus in Mason City. The school's associate degree in nursing equips students with a well-rounded education through its rigorous curriculum. Enrollees benefit from a supportive learning community, customizable study, and a 22-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio.
Degree-seekers can pursue their studies at their own pace. The college supports one online program. Both in-person and remote students benefit from institutional resources, like academic advising and career services.
North Iowa Area Community College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 56
Number of Online Programs: 1
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 47%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 91%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $4,521
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 28%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $4,377
Average Price After Aid: $8,399
#11 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Iowa
Des Moines Area Community College
Ankeny, IA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Students looking for a competitive, flexible education should consider Des Moines Area Community College. Students pursuing an associate degree in nursing benefit from world-class faculty and a well-rounded education. The program boasts a 19-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, enabling collaborative endeavors such as faculty-driven research projects.
Enrollees can complete the program on campus or online. Of its programs, 6% allow for fully online study. Learners can make use of campus resources, such as academic advising and library services, while enrolled.
Des Moines Area Community College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 142
Number of Online Programs: 8
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 31%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 70%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $4,372
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 18%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $5,176
Average Price After Aid: $9,481
#12 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Iowa
Iowa Central Community College
Fort Dodge, IA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Iowa Central Community College supports numerous programs from its main campus in Fort Dodge. The associate degree in nursing program equips learners with industry-specific knowledge, transferrable skills, and learning experiences that prepare them for the demands of their field. The program boasts a 17-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, enabling collaborative endeavors such as faculty-driven research projects.
Depending on their needs, learners can complete the program in person or online. Leading in online education, the college offers five online degrees. All degree candidates can access institutional resources and receive personal and professional guidance.
Iowa Central Community College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 57
Number of Online Programs: 5
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 33%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 93%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $4,516
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 39%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,015
Average Price After Aid: $10,239
#13 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Iowa
Iowa Western Community College
Council Bluffs, IA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Students looking for a competitive, flexible education should consider Iowa Western Community College. The college's advanced nursing assistant certificate program equips enrollees with industry-relevant study, preparing them for the demands of a nursing career. With an 18-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, enrollees benefit from personalized study. Learners can also explore collaborative opportunities such as faculty-driven research projects.
Learners from all walks of life benefit from the program's flexible format. To date, the college supports 13 online programs. In-person and remote students can access campus resources while enrolled, including career services and academic advising.
Iowa Western Community College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 75
Number of Online Programs: 13
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 30%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 90%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $6,124
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 45%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,256
Average Price After Aid: $10,717
#14 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Iowa
Marshalltown Community College
Marshalltown, IA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Marshalltown Community College is a Marshalltown-based college supporting academic programs in dual modalities. The school's nursing programs prepares students for future careers through foundational and specialized coursework. Learners seeking supplementary study can benefit from faculty-driven research projects and other collaborative learning opportunities.
Students can learn on campus or online. The institution notes that 5% of its programs enable online study. Enrollees can access numerous campus resources throughout their studies, including academic advising and career services.
Marshalltown Community College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 44
Number of Online Programs: 2
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 32%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 83%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $3,850
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 18%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $5,041
Average Price After Aid: $7,834
#15 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Iowa
Ellsworth Community College
Iowa Falls, IA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Ellsworth Community College supports numerous programs from its main campus in Iowa Falls. Its nursing programs foster learning through a robust curriculum and supportive learning community in person and online. Beyond the classroom, students can pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as faculty-driven research projects and internships.
With the college supporting in-person and online study, enrollees can pursue their studies at their own pace. Distance learners can choose from two fully online programs through the college. Students can access library services, tutoring, and other campus resources during their studies.
Ellsworth Community College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 26
Number of Online Programs: 2
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 29%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 92%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $4,535
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 50%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $5,206
Average Price After Aid: $11,393
What It Takes to Get Licensed in Iowa
To legally practice nursing in Iowa, licensing is required. Nursing licenses are issued by the Iowa Board of Nursing, which is also charged with setting standards for the nursing practice and education in the state. Nurses looking to get a license can find an overview below:
Eligibility for Licensure
Iowa nurses must graduate from a recognized RN program to be eligible for a license. They then need to:
- Submit an application to sit for the licensure exam, fill out fingerprint cards and sign a waiver form for a background check, and pay a $143 fee for application and fingerprint processing
- Arrange for their nursing program to mail official transcripts directly to the Iowa Board of Nursing
- Simultaneously register to take the NCLEX-RN with the test administrator, Pearson VUE, and pay a $200 fee
Upon receipt of all materials by the state and Pearson VUE, applicants will receive authorization to test (ATT). They then have 90 days to schedule and pass the exam. Applicants who do not pass can reapply with the state and Pearson VUE to retake the exam.
Holders of RN licenses for another state can apply for licensure by endorsement. This requires a separate application, but a background check and waiver form are still required. Fees are slightly higher, adding up to $169. Applicants must also verify their original license, which can be done for many via NURSYS.com.
Keeping a License Active
Nursing licenses must be renewed online every three years between 30 and 60 days before the expiration date. The expiration date falls on the 15th of the nurse's birth month. The fee is $99. During renewal, veteran nurses must be able to document 36 contact hours of continuing education; nurses who are renewing their Iowa license for the first time must document 24 hours.
Becoming an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner in Iowa
Nurse practitioners must first have an RN license from Iowa or a compact state before they can get an advanced registered nurse practitioner license, a title that encompasses 37 categories of health providers. Once they graduate from a master's or advanced practice program in the specialty and get certified by a recognized national body in the specialty, they can apply to be a nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, certified nurse midwife, or certified registered nurse anesthetist. To apply they must:
- Fill out an application
- Pay $81
- Verify their RN license (if held outside of Iowa)
- Prove they are currently certified in the specialty
- Have official transcripts mailed to the Iowa Board of Nursing
- Report any criminal offenses
Iowa does not issue temporary licenses to ARNPs, so it is vital to begin this process well in advance of starting to practice as an ARNP.
For renewal, advanced registered nurse practitioners must renew their RN licenses before renewing their advanced practice licenses. ARNPs do not need to do continuing education credits to renew their license beyond what is required by their national certifying body. Some advanced practice nurses, however, must do two hours of training every five years on reporting of child abuse.
The Iowa Board of Nursing offers more detailed information on Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner Licensure. Visit the site for application forms, information on Compact renewal, and FAQs.
Nursing Salaries & Employment in Iowa
Like many other occupations, salary and employment for RNs in Iowa can vary greatly, depending on education, location, and type of employer. To get a sense of what the state has to offer registered nurses, review the statistics below:
Top-Paying Areas for RNs in Iowa
| Area | Hourly Median Wage | Annual Median Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa City | $28.81 | $59,910 |
| Des Moines-West Des Moines | $26.87 | $55,880 |
| Ames | $26.81 | $55,760 |
| Waterloo-Cedar Falls | $25.72 | $53,500 |
| Davenport-Moline-Rock Island IA-IL | $25.37 | $52,770 |
| Southeast Iowa nonmetropolitan area | $25.22 | $52,460 |
| Cedar Rapids | $24.77 | $51,510 |
| Southwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area | $24.41 | $50,770 |
| Northeast Iowa nonmetropolitan area | $24.24 | $50,420 |
| Dubuque | $23.61 | $49,110 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2014
Iowa vs. National Numbers
Salary
| Year | Annual salary(25th percentile) | Annual salary(median) | Annual salary(75th percentile) | Annual salary(25th percentile) | Annual salary(median) | Annual salary(75th percentile) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurse | $44,940 | $53,220 | $61,490 | $0 | $54,620 | $66,640 | $81,080 |
| Certified Nurse Midwife | $88,590 | $102,530 | $124,570 | $0 | $82,580 | $96,970 | $114,090 |
| Nurse Anesthetist | $146,950 | $167,640 | $0 | $0 | $132,380 | $153,780 | $181,860 |
| Nurse Practitioner | $82,650 | $90,770 | $100,520 | $0 | $82,720 | $95,350 | $113,470 |
| Type | Iowa | National |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurse | 31,860 | 2,687,310 |
| Certified Nurse Midwife | 50 | 5,110 |
| Nurse Anesthetist | 210 | 36,590 |
| Nurse Practitioner | 1,210 | 122,050 |
| Type | Iowa | National |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurse | 38,130 | 3,238,400 |
| Certified Nurse Midwife | 50 | 7,700 |
| Nurse Anesthetist | 120 | 43,900 |
| Nurse Practitioner | 920 | 147,300 |
| Type | Iowa | National |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurse | 1,190 | 105,260 |
| Certified Nurse Midwife | 0 | 290 |
| Nurse Anesthetist | 0 | 1,560 |
| Nurse Practitioner | 30 | 5,850 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2014 and Projections Central
Organizations & Resources: Iowa Nurses
Iowa Association of Nursing Students
As the Iowa chapter of the National Student Nurses' Association, IANS is aimed at RNs. The organization provides professional support to nursing students at 11 schools.
The Iowa Board of Nursing is responsible for licensing nurses of all backgrounds. It is an essential resource for nurses getting an initial license or renewing an existing one.
Iowa Developmental Disabilities Nurses Association
IDDNA supports the work of nurses who provide care to the disabled patient population. The association runs conferences and holds quarterly meetings, making membership especially valuable for nurses looking to network.
The Iowa Nurses Association is a member of the American Nurses Assocation. It issues scholarships, offers continuing education courses and organizes an annual convention for Iowan nurses.
Iowa Organization of Nurse Leaders
IONL acts as the voice of management in the nursing profession. To this end, it is focused on advocacy issues and promotes legislation that corresponds with the platform of its national association, the American Organization for Nurse Executives.
Iowa Psychiatric Nurses Association
The Iowa chapter of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association works to strengthen the psychiatric nursing workforce. It appeals to members by proving both networking and continuing education programs.