Top 20 Nursing Schools in Alabama (2025)

Alabama is home to a variety of highly regarded nursing schools that prepare students for professional careers in healthcare. These schools offer programs at the associate, bachelor, and graduate levels, including ADN, BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD degrees. Students benefit from rigorous academic training, hands-on clinical experience, and strong faculty mentorship. Graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX licensure exam and are in high demand across hospitals, clinics, community health centers, and specialized healthcare settings throughout the state.

Top 20 Nursing Schools in Alabama

1. University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB)

The School of Nursing at UAB is nationally recognized for excellence in nursing education. It offers a range of programs including Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice, and PhD in Nursing. The curriculum emphasizes clinical skills, research, and leadership development. Students benefit from extensive clinical partnerships with hospitals and healthcare systems in Birmingham. Graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX exam and have strong employment prospects across diverse healthcare settings.

2. University of Alabama (UA)

The Capstone College of Nursing at UA provides high-quality nursing education with programs including Bachelor of Science in Nursing, RN to BSN, Master of Science in Nursing, and Doctor of Nursing Practice. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, clinical training, and leadership skills. Students engage in hands-on learning experiences through clinical placements in hospitals and community healthcare settings. The college maintains a strong NCLEX pass rate and prepares graduates for successful careers as professional nurses in various healthcare environments across Alabama and beyond.

3. Auburn University

Auburn University’s School of Nursing offers programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels, including BSN, MSN, and DNP. The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, clinical excellence, and research. Students gain hands-on experience in advanced simulation labs and through clinical placements in hospitals, community health centers, and other healthcare facilities. Auburn prepares nursing students for leadership roles in healthcare and encourages participation in research and community service. The program is known for its rigorous training, supportive faculty, and strong NCLEX pass rates.

4. Samford University

Samford University in Birmingham provides a nursing program designed for students pursuing initial nursing education as well as those with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees. The BSN program integrates classroom instruction with clinical practice in diverse healthcare settings. The curriculum focuses on evidence-based practice, patient-centered care, and professional development. Students benefit from small class sizes, personalized mentorship, and opportunities for clinical rotations in hospitals and clinics throughout the region. The program emphasizes leadership, ethical practice, and preparation for successful NCLEX completion.

5. University of South Alabama

The University of South Alabama offers comprehensive nursing programs including BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, and Doctor of Nursing Practice. The school is known for its strong clinical affiliations, providing students with hands-on training in hospitals and community healthcare settings. The curriculum emphasizes patient care, evidence-based practice, and leadership development. Students are prepared to become competent, compassionate nurses who can address diverse healthcare needs. Faculty support, mentoring, and resources help students achieve high NCLEX pass rates and excel in their nursing careers.

6. Jacksonville State University

Jacksonville State University offers a variety of nursing programs including BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, and Doctor of Nursing Practice. The school is recognized for its focus on clinical excellence, community involvement, and student success. Nursing students participate in extensive hands-on training through clinical placements in hospitals, clinics, and public health settings. The curriculum emphasizes leadership, critical thinking, and evidence-based practice. JSU prepares graduates for licensure and professional practice while fostering a commitment to lifelong learning and healthcare improvement in diverse communities.

7. University of North Alabama

The University of North Alabama provides nursing programs including BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, and post-graduate certificates. The program focuses on preparing students to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care in various healthcare environments. Students gain practical experience through clinical rotations in hospitals, clinics, and community health organizations. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, leadership, and evidence-based practice. The school also offers flexible online options for certain programs, enabling working professionals to advance their nursing education while balancing career and personal responsibilities.

8. University of Alabama in Huntsville

The nursing program at the University of Alabama in Huntsville offers BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD degrees. The curriculum combines rigorous academic coursework with extensive clinical experience. Students have access to advanced simulation labs and partnerships with local hospitals and clinics. The program emphasizes research, leadership, and evidence-based nursing practice. Graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX exam and advanced practice roles. UAH’s nursing school supports student success through mentoring, professional development opportunities, and exposure to diverse healthcare settings.

9. Troy University

Troy University offers nursing programs including BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, and DNP. The program is designed to provide high-quality education at affordable tuition rates. Students gain practical experience through clinical placements in hospitals, community health centers, and public health organizations. The curriculum emphasizes patient-centered care, critical thinking, and leadership skills. Troy University fosters a supportive learning environment, preparing graduates for licensure and professional practice. Students are encouraged to participate in research, community service, and lifelong learning to advance nursing knowledge and practice.

10. Tuskegee University

Tuskegee University provides nursing programs including BSN and MSN. The school has a strong tradition of preparing nurses for professional practice while promoting diversity and inclusion in healthcare. The curriculum combines classroom learning with clinical training in hospitals and community health facilities. Students develop skills in patient care, leadership, and evidence-based practice. The nursing program emphasizes cultural competence and community service. Graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX exam and nursing careers in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare environments, contributing to improved healthcare outcomes across Alabama.

11. University of Mobile

The University of Mobile offers BSN and MSN programs with a focus on preparing students for professional nursing practice. The curriculum emphasizes patient-centered care, clinical excellence, and leadership development. Students participate in extensive hands-on training through clinical rotations in hospitals, clinics, and community health organizations. Faculty provide mentorship and support to ensure student success. Graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX licensure exam and have strong career prospects in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, public health, and specialty care environments.

12. University of West Alabama

The University of West Alabama provides BSN and RN to BSN programs that emphasize community health, critical thinking, and patient-centered care. Students gain practical experience through clinical placements in hospitals, clinics, and rural healthcare settings. The curriculum combines academic coursework with hands-on learning to prepare students for professional practice. The program also supports students pursuing leadership roles or graduate studies in nursing. Faculty mentoring, simulation labs, and strong local healthcare partnerships enhance student learning and ensure readiness for the NCLEX exam and nursing careers.

13. Wallace State Community College

Wallace State offers an Associate Degree in Nursing program designed to prepare students for immediate entry into professional nursing practice. The program emphasizes clinical skills, critical thinking, and patient-centered care. Students participate in clinical rotations at local hospitals and healthcare facilities, gaining hands-on experience in diverse healthcare settings. The faculty provide guidance and mentorship to support student success. Graduates of Wallace State have high NCLEX pass rates and are prepared for employment as registered nurses in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community health organizations.

14. Southern Union State Community College

Southern Union State offers an ADN program focused on preparing students for professional nursing practice. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, patient care, and clinical competence. Students engage in hands-on learning through clinical rotations in hospitals, clinics, and community healthcare settings. The program provides support through faculty mentoring, simulation labs, and academic guidance. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX exam and begin careers as registered nurses. The program is known for its affordability, quality instruction, and focus on producing competent, compassionate nurses for the region.

15. Calhoun Community College

Calhoun Community College provides an Associate Degree in Nursing program that emphasizes clinical experience, patient-centered care, and professional development. Students participate in hands-on training through clinical rotations in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings. The curriculum combines classroom instruction with practical experience to prepare graduates for professional nursing practice. Faculty provide mentoring and support to help students succeed academically and clinically. Graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX licensure exam and enter the workforce with the skills and confidence needed for careers in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities.

16. Jefferson State Community College

Jefferson State offers an ADN program designed to prepare students for licensure as registered nurses. The program emphasizes patient care, critical thinking, and clinical competence. Students gain practical experience through clinical rotations at hospitals and healthcare facilities, learning hands-on skills in real-world settings. The curriculum includes coursework in nursing theory, pharmacology, and health assessment. Faculty provide guidance and mentoring to ensure student success. Graduates are prepared for the NCLEX exam and enter professional nursing roles in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health organizations throughout Alabama.

17. Lurleen B. Wallace Community College

Lurleen B. Wallace Community College provides an Associate Degree in Nursing program that emphasizes community health, patient care, and professional practice. Students gain practical experience through clinical rotations in hospitals, clinics, and local healthcare organizations. The curriculum integrates nursing theory with hands-on learning to prepare graduates for licensure and professional practice. Faculty mentoring and academic support help students succeed in both coursework and clinical experiences. Graduates are prepared to pass the NCLEX exam and pursue nursing careers in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, community clinics, and public health organizations.

18. Bevill State Community College

Bevill State offers an Associate Degree in Nursing program focused on preparing students for professional nursing practice. The program emphasizes patient care, critical thinking, and clinical competence. Students participate in hands-on learning through clinical rotations in hospitals, clinics, and community health facilities. The curriculum combines classroom instruction with practical experience to ensure readiness for licensure. Faculty provide mentorship and guidance to support academic and clinical success. Graduates of Bevill State are prepared for the NCLEX exam and careers as registered nurses in hospitals, long-term care, and community healthcare settings.

19. Chattahoochee Valley Community College

Chattahoochee Valley Community College provides an Associate Degree in Nursing program designed to prepare students for the NCLEX licensure exam. The curriculum emphasizes patient care, clinical skills, and professional development. Students gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations in hospitals, clinics, and community healthcare organizations. Faculty provide mentoring and support to ensure academic and practical success. Graduates enter the nursing workforce prepared to provide high-quality care in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community health settings. The program focuses on producing competent, compassionate nurses for regional healthcare needs.

20. Gadsden State Community College

Gadsden State offers an ADN program that emphasizes patient-centered care, clinical competence, and professional nursing practice. Students participate in extensive hands-on clinical training in hospitals, clinics, and community healthcare settings. The curriculum integrates nursing theory with practical experience to prepare graduates for licensure and professional practice. Faculty mentoring, simulation labs, and academic support help students succeed. Graduates are well-prepared to take the NCLEX exam and pursue nursing careers in diverse healthcare environments, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community health organizations across Alabama.

Requirements For Top Nursing Schools in Alabama

• Completion of high school diploma or GED with a strong academic record
• Prerequisite coursework in biology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, and math
• Minimum GPA requirements, often ranging from 2.5 to 3.0 or higher
• Submission of official transcripts from all previous education
• Letters of recommendation from teachers, employers, or healthcare professionals
• Completion of standardized tests, such as the ACT or SAT, for undergraduate programs

Cost of These Top Nursing Schools in Alabama

• Tuition varies widely between public and private institutions
• Average in-state tuition for BSN programs ranges from \$6,000 to \$15,000 per year
• Out-of-state tuition can be significantly higher, often \$15,000 to \$25,000 annually
• Graduate programs such as MSN or DNP typically cost \$10,000 to \$35,000 per year
• Additional fees include lab fees, technology fees, and clinical supplies
• Books and learning materials may cost \$1,000 to \$2,000 per year
• Room, board, and living expenses vary depending on location and housing choice.

Application Process For These Top Nursing Schools in Alabama

• Submit an online application to the nursing school or university admissions office
• Provide official transcripts, test scores, and prerequisite course documentation
• Submit letters of recommendation and a personal statement or essay
• Complete an interview or assessment if required by the program
• Meet deadlines and follow any supplemental instructions for program-specific applications

Conclusion

Nursing schools in Alabama offer a range of programs designed to prepare students for successful careers in healthcare. By meeting the admission requirements, understanding tuition and costs, and following the application process carefully, prospective students can gain access to excellent academic training, practical clinical experience, and strong career opportunities. Graduates are equipped to pass the NCLEX licensure exam and contribute meaningfully to healthcare systems across Alabama and beyond, making these schools a solid choice for aspiring nurses.