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Best Nursing Schools in Rhode Island (2026)

Rhode Island has 25 nursing programs across 6 cities. 12 programs report NCLEX pass rates, averaging 91%. Below are the top-ranked programs based on NCLEX performance, tuition, and program type.

Updated Reviewed by NurseWay Editorial Team
25
Total programs
5
Program types
91%
Avg NCLEX rate
12
With NCLEX data

Top BSN Programs in Rhode Island by NCLEX Pass Rate

Ranked by most recent NCLEX-RN first-time pass rate. Data sourced from state boards of nursing.

Top ADN, ABSN, MSN & DNP Programs in Rhode Island by NCLEX Pass Rate

Non-BSN programs ranked by most recent NCLEX-RN first-time pass rate.

Nursing Programs in Rhode Island by Type

ADN
3 programs
Avg NCLEX: 91%
BSN
5 programs
Avg NCLEX: 93%
RN to BSN
3 programs
Avg NCLEX: 90%
MSN
3 programs
Avg NCLEX: 90%
DNP
8 programs
Avg NCLEX: 90%

Nursing Programs in Rhode Island by City

Drill into city-level rankings. Showing cities with at least 3 programs.

Most Affordable Nursing Schools in Rhode Island

Sorted by lowest available tuition figure (total program or annual in-state).

Community College of Rhode Island
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing.ADN
$5,326 in / $14,210 out
Community College of Rhode Island
Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants.CERT
$5,326 in / $14,210 out
Community College of Rhode Island
Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants.ADN
$5,326 in / $14,210 out
Rhode Island College
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing.MSN
$9,788 in / $18,230 out
Rhode Island College
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing.DNP
$9,788 in / $18,230 out
Rhode Island College
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing.DNP
$9,788 in / $18,230 out
Rhode Island College
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing.DNP
$9,788 in / $18,230 out
Rhode Island College
RN to BSNRN_TO_BSN
$10,986 in / $26,519 out
Rhode Island College
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing.BSN
$10,986 in / $26,519 out
Salve Regina University
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing.MSN
$12,795

Frequently Asked Questions

How many nursing schools are in Rhode Island?

There are 25 nursing programs in Rhode Island, spanning 3 ADN, 5 BSN, 3 RN to BSN, 3 MSN, 8 DNP programs.

What is the average NCLEX pass rate in Rhode Island?

Based on 12 programs with reported data, the average NCLEX-RN first-time pass rate in Rhode Island is 91%. The highest rate is 97.2% at University of Rhode Island.

What is the cheapest nursing school in Rhode Island?

The most affordable option is Community College of Rhode Island (ADN) at $5,326 in / $14,210 out.

Compare Rhode Island with Nearby States

Considering programs across state lines? Browse nursing schools in neighboring states.

Helpful Guides for Rhode Island Applicants

Background reading on admissions, program length, and costs.

Want personalized rankings? Complete the intake portal to see match scores tailored to your GPA, exam scores, and preferences.