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.

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.

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.

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

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.