Guide for Students: Online Nursing Programs in Idaho
Idaho’s growing need for registered nurses makes nursing an ideal career choice. Explore some of the best nursing schools in Idaho, what they require, what they cost, and the post-graduation opportunities.
Nurses are in high demand all across the country. Nationwide, job growth for registered nurses is expected to average 20% over the next 10 years. In Idaho, it’s projected to be more than double that national average.
Like many other states, Idaho faces challenges in the next few years to supply enough nurses to meet the demand. With such promising growth in this career field, no doubt pursuing a degree in nursing will lead to a full and rewarding career. Idaho offers many options when it comes to choosing a nursing program that will fit your needs. This guide aims to provide insight into some of Idaho’s best nursing programs, including requirements, costs, and what you can expect following graduation. Let’s explore this degree pathway and shed some light on a few of Idaho’s best nursing programs.
Idaho State University
Pocatello, Idaho
Public
Boise State University
Boise, Idaho
Public
Lewis-Clark State College
Lewiston, Idaho
Public
Types of Nursing Programs Available in Idaho
Idaho offers a variety of nursing programs for students at different points in their nursing education and career. Anything from traditional to online or hybrid options is available. Here are some of the most common options.
Pre-Licensure Nursing Programs in Idaho
ADN Programs
For students seeking the quickest, most affordable route to licensure, associate degree in nursing (ADN) programs are a practical choice. These programs are designed to provide evidence-based education with a more hands-on learning approach.
Examples of Idaho Nursing Schools with this Program
Traditional BSN Programs
In Idaho, 71% of registered nurses hold a BSN or higher degree in nursing—much higher than the national average of 57%. Traditional BSN programs typically take four years to complete and result in higher wages as well as more advancement opportunities. Research shows that facilities with nurses holding BSNs have better patient outcomes and lower mortality rates than those with less education.
Examples of Idaho Nursing Schools with this Program
Accelerated BSN Programs
Accelerated BSN programs are designed for those looking to make a career change to nursing but who already have a bachelor’s degree. These programs are rigorous but can be completed in a year or less, allowing individuals to enter the workforce quickly.
Examples of Idaho Nursing Schools with this Program
Nursing Bridge Programs in Idaho for Current Nurses
LPN to RN and LPN to BSN Programs
Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) wishing to advance their education can apply for bridge programs to become RNs. Typically, to be eligible, these bridge programs require an unrestricted LPN license and a certain number of recent hours worked as an LPN. ADN and BSN degree options also are available in Idaho.
Examples of Idaho Nursing Schools with this Program
College of Eastern Idaho LPN to RN (ADN)
Lewis-Clark State College LPN to BSN
RN to BSN Programs
For those who are already licensed RNs but are looking to advance their education, consider one of Idaho’s RN to BSN programs. Key nursing organizations recommend an increase in BSN-prepared nurses; nurses are responding, as enrollment in BSN programs has increased
Examples of Idaho Nursing Schools with this Program
RN to MSN Programs
Nurses looking to pursue further education at the master’s level can choose from specialty areas such as leadership or education. RN to MSN programs are designed to accommodate working professionals and can typically be completed in two to three years. Students select from part-time or full-time nursing programs in Idaho to best fit their busy schedules.
Examples of Idaho Nursing Schools with this Program
Advanced Nursing Programs in Idaho
MSN Programs
MSN programs are primarily completed online for already-licensed nurses. For those looking to make a career change to nursing but who already have a bachelor’s degree, Eagle Gate College offers Idaho’s only direct-entry MSN program. Direct-entry MSN programs are built on a hybrid model so that students can obtain the necessary clinical hours to receive licensure.
Examples of Idaho Nursing Schools with This Program
Eagle Gate College Direct Entry MSN for those with a non-nursing baccalaureate degree
DNP and PhD Doctoral Programs
According to the AACN, DNP programs emphasize the translation of research into practice, leadership, and more advanced nursing practice. PhD in nursing programs are designed to better develop nurses into nurse scientists and scholars primarily involved in teaching and research.
Examples of Idaho Nursing Schools with This Program
Postgraduate Certificates
Students with advanced degrees who want to expand their expertise and licensure can pursue postgraduate certificates. For example, Idaho State University offers a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) to Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) certificate program for already-licensed FNPs looking to specialize.
Examples of Idaho Nursing Schools with This Program
Affording Your Nursing Degree: Financial Aid Options in Idaho
Many scholarships are available for Idaho nursing students looking to offset the cost of tuition. Scholarship requirements vary, so read the full description before completing the application. As part of Idaho’s commitment to increasing access to healthcare in rural areas, the Idaho Department of Health & Welfare offers information on loan repayment and grants to healthcare professionals opting to work in an underserved area. The Idaho Community Foundation offers a breakdown of scholarships based on region and manages more than 50 different scholarship funds. As you investigate your options, include our nursing scholarship guide and main financial aid guide in your research.
How to Become an RN in Idaho: Licensing Information and Requirements
The Idaho Board of Nursing (IBN) dictates practice requirements and oversees licensure for nurses in the state of Idaho. 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. This is also where users pay renewal fees and submit any concerns or questions regarding licensure. Look at the steps required to become a licensed nurse in Idaho.
Step #1: Choose Your Nursing Path
There are currently four routes available in Idaho to become a licensed nurse. You can choose to become an LPN by completing a one-year diploma program. You can also opt to go straight to becoming an RN by completing either a two-year associate degree or a four-year bachelor’s degree. For those who already have a bachelor’s in a non-nursing field, a direct-entry master’s is an option as well.
Step #2: Complete Prerequisite Courses
Students planning to pursue an ADN or BSN will need to take a core set of courses focusing on health sciences. Some schools require a certain GPA as well. Many nursing schools in Idaho and elsewhere now require the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) test as part of the admission process. Check with the nursing school where you’re planning to apply to find out their TEAS requirements as well as any other prerequisites unique to the institution.
Step #3: Select a Nursing School
While it’s beneficial to have a nursing school picked out in advance of completing prerequisites, many programs have very similar requirements. Select a nursing school in Idaho that aligns best with your educational needs and the prerequisites you’ve completed. Nursing schools are known for their competitiveness, so applying to more than one is not uncommon and increases your likelihood of acceptance.
Step #4: Complete Your Program
Depending on the route and program you choose, course completion looks different. ADN programs focus on hands-on learning and immersion in clinical practice. BSN programs go more in-depth and require more academic preparation in addition to clinical requirements.
Step #5: Take the NCLEX
Once all clinical and academic requirements have been met, you will need to sign up to take the NCLEX. First, request official transcripts from your nursing program be sent to the IBN and pay the $118.25 fee for initial licensure. Once the IBN has confirmed transcripts, you will be eligible to take the NCLEX.
Step #6: Keeping License Current & Continuing Education Requirements
Idaho takes part in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), meaning that Idaho nurses are able to practice in any of the 39 other NLC states without obtaining additional licenses. Idaho RN licenses expire in odd-numbered years and must be renewed by Aug. 31 of that year to remain active. Idaho requires all LPNs and RNs to have a minimum of 15 continuing education hours every two years for renewal. Currently, the renewal fee is $90.
Nursing Opportunities: RN Job Outlook in Idaho
BSN-prepared nurses can expect a hot job market because of Idaho’s growing and aging population. Popular metro areas are home to the state’s largest health systems and offer incentives, bonuses, and nurse residency training programs to help attract nurses. Rural areas are also in need and offer loan repayment programs and sometimes relocation assistance. Idaho has seen an influx of people migrating to the state in recent years, particularly people of retirement age, driving further demand for healthcare services. Idaho exceeds the national average for RN job growth, and according to the Idaho Department of Labor, RNs are the most in-demand occupation in the state.
Employment Projections for RNs in Idaho
| New Jobs (2020-2030) | Job Growth Rate (2020-2030) | Average Annual Openings (2020-2030) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Idaho | 3,050 | 19.9% | 1,110 |
| United States | 276,700 | 9% | 194,500 |
Source: Projections Central
RN Pay Scale in Idaho: How Much You Could Earn
Idaho is one of the fastest-growing states in the country due to its beautiful geography and affordability compared with other northwest states such as Washington and Oregon. However, because Idaho is a bit more affordable, RN wages are slightly lower than the coastal states but still on par with national averages. Regional pay differences in the state are attributed to the cost of living, demand, and availability of employment.
Annual Earnings for Registered Nurses in Idaho
| 10th Percentile | 50th Percentile (Median) | 90th Percentile | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Idaho | $59,640 | $75,560 | $98,030 |
| Boise City, Idaho | $60,550 | $77,030 | $98,380 |
| Coeur d’Alene, Idaho | $59,640 | $79,410 | $100,400 |
| Idaho Falls, Idaho | $48,320 | $62,390 | $91,730 |
| Lewiston, Idaho | $60,910 | $79,220 | $101,560 |
| Pocatello, Idaho | $57,740 | $71,630 | $89,550 |
| Twin Falls, Idaho | $60,550 | $76,160 | $98,030 |
| United States | $59,450 | $77,600 | $120,250 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2021
Idaho Nursing Resources
Pursuing a nursing degree in the beautiful state of Idaho can result in a rewarding and in-demand career. Consider some additional resources as you pursue more information about all that nursing programs in Idaho offer.
