5 Best Online Nursing Programs in Idaho

Uncover boundless opportunities for advancing your career in nursing with an Idaho online nursing degree. From the serene landscapes of Idaho to the virtual corridors of its universities, this state offers a range of accredited online nursing degree programs.

Delve into the convenience, flexibility, and quality education that awaits as we navigate the world of Idaho's online nursing degrees.

Best Online Nursing Programs in Idaho

Pursue excellence in your certified registered nurse career with an Idaho online nursing degree from esteemed institutions, combining convenience and quality for your educational journey. Learn about all of your degree optiuons, including online RN to BSN programs.

1. Boise State University

Boise State University's CCNE-accredited Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Master of Nursing program equips students to become nurse practitioners specializing in acute or primary care for adult patients, from age 12 to end of life.

Graduates are prepared to perform comprehensive examinations, diagnose and treat illnesses, manage chronic conditions, interpret diagnostic tests, prescribe treatments, and educate patients and families.

The program emphasizes critical inquiry, clinical reasoning, communication, engagement in various clinical settings, global perspectives, professionalism, and leadership.

Graduates are primed for advanced nursing roles with a comprehensive skill set and a strong ethical foundation.

2. College of Eastern Idaho

The College of Eastern Idaho offers an ACEN-accredited Associate of Applied Science degree in nursing.

This Registered Nursing program is approved by the Idaho Board of Nursing and provides students with essential knowledge and skills to become registered nurses. The curriculum includes theoretical classes and hands-on clinical experiences in major healthcare facilities.

Successful completion of the program qualifies students to sit for the Idaho national licensure examination (NCLEX-RN).

The program emphasizes skills such as patient monitoring, medical record management, treatment discussion, tests, equipment operation, and creating treatment plans.

CEI's program offers affordability, different options, clinical hours, and pathways for further education.

3. Idaho State University

Idaho State University offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a Nursing Education option, preparing graduates for educator roles in various healthcare settings. The program focuses on nursing education principles, leadership, and evidence-based practices.

It involves 43 credit hours, including 336 lab/practicum hours in diverse settings.

Courses are delivered online, emphasizing evidence-based approaches, leadership in resource management, understanding nursing principles, analyzing healthcare systems, valuing diversity, and partnering for optimal health outcomes.

Graduates are equipped to navigate nursing's evolving landscape and contribute to healthcare improvements.

4. Lewis-Clark State College

Lewis-Clark State College offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program with pre-licensure and completion tracks for LPNs and RNs.

The RN to BSN track is available online with local practicum experiences. The program fosters nurse roles such as care provider, coordinator, and professional member.

Students engage in diverse learning activities, developing nursing expertise and preparing for graduate-level studies.

The program focuses on equipping graduates with skills to excel as baccalaureate nurses, interdisciplinary team members, leaders in healthcare, and engaged advocates.

The BSN curriculum is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

5. Northwest Nazarene University

Northwest Nazarene University's College of Nursing offers an online Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN -FNP) program designed for baccalaureate registered nurses seeking to become Advanced Practice Clinicians.

With four on-campus residencies, this program equips students for national licensure as Family Nurse Practitioners. The flexible online cohort model, comprising 48 credits, emphasizes interactive learning and collegiality.

Built upon established nursing standards and values, the program fosters Christ-like ethical behavior, evidence-based practice, and leadership skills, preparing graduates to provide exemplary patient-centered care and advocate for diverse populations.

Other Popular Nursing Programs in Idaho

Online learning allows students in Idaho to pursue their degrees across state lines. Students can find high-quality programs in other states, including some of the easiest RN to BSN programs online. In addition to traditional formats, students can find self-paced RN to BSN programs that allow for more flexible learning.

6. Arizona State University

Arizona State University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Nursing: RN to BSN program, empowering registered nurses to enhance their skill set and readiness for future healthcare challenges.

Geared toward active RNs with an associate degree, this flexible online pathway lets you leverage your existing knowledge and experience to expand your nursing competencies.

ASU Online's accredited program is approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

With the convenience of online learning, you'll have the flexibility to balance your personal and professional commitments while advancing your knowledge in various healthcare roles and adapting to industry changes.

7. Walden University

Walden University presents an extensive PhD in Nursing program, offering an Interdisciplinary Health specialization tailored for those aspiring to contribute to academia or advance original nursing research.

The program includes diverse tracks such as the Bridge Option for DNP holders, BSN to PhD for registered nurses with a BSN degree, and MSN to PhD for master's in nursing holders.

With 50 years of expertise in distance learning, Walden ensures a solid educational foundation.

The program encourages personalized studies, allowing students to select from specializations like nursing education, healthcare administration, leadership, and population health.

The Interdisciplinary Health focus promotes collaborative skills and readies graduates for varied healthcare roles.

8. Herzing University

Providing a pathway to future nursing education, Herzing University presents the Associate of Science in General Studies - Pre-Nursing, a 60-credit program.

This option enables students to enhance their GPA while acquiring essential knowledge in areas such as pathophysiology, pharmacology, psychology, and nutrition.

Successful program completion can lead to entry into a pre-licensure BSN program with Herzing University. Online courses prioritize critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, laying a strong groundwork for pursuing a pre-licensure bachelor's degree in nursing.

9. Colorado Mesa University

Colorado Mesa University presents the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program tailored for baccalaureate- or master's-prepared nurses aspiring to excel as family nurse practitioners (FNPs) and nurse leaders.

DNP graduates stand out in primary care delivery, prioritizing critical thinking, leadership, and advocacy prowess.

The program, featuring online courses, mandates a minimum of 1000 clinical hours to foster primary care expertise. While students can fulfill clinical hours locally, they may also pursue specialized experiences through travel.

Prerequisites include a BSN and a maintained GPA of 3.0 in baccalaureate nursing coursework.

The program's focus is on preparing clinical leaders, influencing policy, and transforming healthcare systems, equipping graduates to elevate healthcare outcomes and collaborating across diverse populations.

10. Vermont State University

Vermont State University's online RN to BSN completion program empowers registered nurses (RNs) with proficiency in health promotion, disease prevention, and global health.

The flexible 18-month curriculum encompasses healthcare information systems, palliative care, holistic healing, leadership, and community nursing. The addition of precepted experiences enhances practical competencies.

Tailored for active nurses, it offers opportunities for career advancement and pursuit of advanced nursing degrees. This program stands as a vital element within Vermont State's pioneering nursing trajectory.

Types of Nursing Programs Offered Online in Idaho

In Idaho, universities and colleges offer numerous online nursing programs to cater to various career goals and educational preferences.

The state mandates at least an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) for Registered Nurses (RNs) and a master's degree for Advanced Practice Nurses. These programs include:

• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): A two-year program preparing individuals for RN licensure.
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): A comprehensive four-year program offering in-depth nursing education.
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-BSN): An online/distance degree completion option for RNs to further their education.
• Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing (RN): A bridge program allowing LPNs to become RNs.
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): Leadership and Education: A graduate program focused on nursing leadership and education.
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): APRN, FNP: A master program preparing Advanced *Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) with a focus on Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) specialization.
• Post Master's Doctoral program: Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): An advanced program for nurse practitioners seeking a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree.
• Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN): A practical nursing program leading to LPN licensure.
• Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP) online/distance completion option: A specialized program for nurses pursuing expertise in adult-gerontology care.

What Are the Educational Requirements for a Nursing Degree?

In Idaho, pursuing a degree involves meeting educational requirements for nurses to ensure you're prepared for a successful career in nursing.

The state mandates that you complete either an associate degree or a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university before applying for nursing licensure. Here are the educational pathways available for aspiring nurses in Idaho:

• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): To become a registered nurse (RN) in Idaho, you can pursue an associate degree in nursing. This program typically takes around 2 years to complete and provides essential nursing education and skills.
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): For a more comprehensive nursing education, you have the option to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. This program typically takes about four years to complete and offers a broader understanding of nursing concepts and practices.

Licensing Requirements for Nurses in Idaho

Nursing programs in Idaho are governed by the State of Idaho through a regulatory body known as the Idaho Board of Nursing (IBN), which issues licenses to qualified individuals and oversees the nursing profession.

To practice nursing in the state, you must obtain a license from the IBN. There are two pathways to obtaining nursing licensure in Idaho: examination and endorsement.

In Idaho, nursing licenses are categorized into three levels, each with its own distinct requirements:

1. Practical Nursing (PN):

• Completion of a practical nursing program.
• Good physical and mental health.
• Pass the practical nursing exam.

OR

• Hold a practical nursing license from another state.

OR

• Possess a practical nursing license issued by another country.

2. Professional Nursing (RN):

• Completion of a professional nursing program.
• Good physical and mental health.
• Pass the professional nursing exam.

OR

• Hold a professional nursing license from another state.

OR

• Possess a professional nursing license issued by another country.

3. Advanced Practice Professional Nursing (APPN):

• Must be licensed as a professional nurse in Idaho.
• Completion of an advanced practice professional nursing program.
• Good physical and mental health.
• Pass the professional nursing exam.

OR

• Hold a professional nursing license from another state.

OR

• Possess a professional nursing license issued by another country.

Start Your Nursing Degree Online

In the vibrant landscape of nursing education, the door to your future in healthcare awaits with the convenience of an Idaho online nursing degree.

Embrace the transformative journey of learning and innovation as you take the vital step toward your nursing aspirations.