Last Updated on January 19, 2023
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Utah MSN Programs
Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, We Have Expanded the Use of Our Distance Education Platform to Offer More Online Classes in This Program Until Further Notice. Our Master’s Entry Program in Nursing (MEPN) helps non-nursing students pursue their dream careers. It’s a convenient choice for busy adults who would like to change professions and seek an advanced nursing degree. Our program is presented in a blended format, allowing you to complete traditional and distance education courses. We currently offer online MEPN courses to support students and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.
There are several colleges and universities in The Beehive State of Utah which offer Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs. Below you will find the list which we have compiled of those MSN programs offered in Utah which are nationally accredited. We hope you find the resource useful in your search for the program that best fits your needs.
Brigham Young UniversityCollege of Nursing
Brigham Young University’s College of Nursing offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree. The MSN program is designed to prepare Registered Nurses (RNs) as Family Nurse Practitioners.
Applicants to the program must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an NLNAC/ACEN or CCNE accredited nursing program with a grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher in the last 60 semester hours of college coursework. Students must have completed courses in Statistics and Pathophysiology. They must submit satisfactory Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores. Candidates must hold a current RN license in Utah or have applied for one.Program Accreditations
Commission of Collegiate Nursing EducationProgram Contact Information
500A SWKT
Provo, UT 84602
(801) 422-6547
University of UtahCollege of Nursing
University of Utah’s College of Nursing offers a Master of Science in Nursing degree to Bachelor’s prepared Registered Nurses. Programs are available to prepare nurses in three roles/specializations:
- Nursing Informatics
- Nursing Education
- Case Management
Applicants are required to hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from a regionally accredited college or university. Students must have at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale. Those with a GPA below 3.2 must submit acceptable Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores. Candidates must hold a license as a Registered Nurse.Program Accreditations
Commission of Collegiate Nursing EducationProgram Contact Information
10 South 2000 East
Salt Lake City, UT 84112
(801) 581-3414
Utah Valley UniversityCollege of Science and Health
The College of Science and Health at Utah Valley University offers a master of Science in Nursing program. The program prepares post-BSN student as Nurse Educators within academic settings as well as healthcare institutions.
Applicants must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from an NLNAC/ACEN or CCNE accredited program with either an overall undergraduate GPA of 3.2 or higher or a GPA of 3.2 or higher in the last 60 semester hours of undergraduate coursework. Students must have completed an undergraduate course in Statistics. They must hold current licensure as an RN in Utah within 90 days of coursework completion.Program Accreditations
Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (Formerly NLNAC)Program Contact Information
800 West University Parkway
Orem, UT 84058
(801) 863-4636
Weber State UniversitySchool of Nursing
The Master of Science in Nursing programs offered through Weber State University’s School of Nursing prepares nurses for the following roles/specializations:
- Nursing Education
- Nursing Administration
Those seeking entry into Weber State’s MSN program must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from a regionally accredited institution and a nationally (NLNAC/ACEN or CCNE) accredited nursing program. They must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale in all college coursework. It is strongly recommended that all students have completed an undergraduate course in Statistics in the past five years. Candidates must hold a current unencumbered Utah license to practice as an RN or be eligible for licensure. One year of nursing practice experience is preferred.Program Accreditations
Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (Formerly NLNAC)Program Contact Information
Ogden, UT 84408
(801) 626-6132
Western Governors UniversityDepartment of Nursing
The Department of Nursing at Western Governors University offers multiple pathways to a Master of Science in Nursing degree. They offer an RN to MSN pathway as well as a traditional BSN to MSN pathway.
The RN to MSN pathway is designed for Registered Nurses who possess a diploma or Associate’s degree in nursing. Students completing the program are awarded both a BSN and MSN degree.
Regardless of entry pathway, Western Governors offers MSN programs in two areas of specialization:
- Nursing Education
- Nursing Leadership and Management
Applicants entering the RN to MSN program must hold a diploma or Associate’s degree in nursing. They must have a current unencumbered license to practice as a Registered Nurse. Candidates must be working as an RN at the time of application and enrollment.
Applicants entering the program via the BSN to MSN pathway are required to hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. Students must hold a current unencumbered RN license and be employed as an RN.Program Accreditations
Commission of Collegiate Nursing EducationProgram Contact Information
4001 South 700 East, Suite 700
Salt Lake City, UT 84105
(801) 832-2164
Best Nursing Schools in Utah
Home / UtahLast Updated/Verified: Mar 29, 2020
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- ADN Programs in Utah
- BSN Programs in Utah
- MSN Programs in Utah
- RN Licensing Requirements
- Accelerated Nursing Programs
- Best RN Programs in Utah
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See Our list of the Best Nursing Programs in Utah
Selecting the best nursing school in Utah can be difficult. To make the process easier first look for a school that supports students towards licensure and beyond. A great way to measure this is through NCLEX-RN “pass rates.” We have ranked the top 5 nursing schools in Utah by analyzing current and historical NCLEX-RN “pass rates”, meaning the percentage of graduates who pass the exam, out of the 19 RN programs in the state. Programs reviewed include schools that offer an Associate in Nursing (ADN/ASN), BSN, or Direct-Entry MSN Degree.
For more information on our top nursing school rankings, see our Methodology Page (https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/).
Becoming a registered nurse in Utah is a great way to earn a living while delivering much-needed quality care to the community. Jobs in the nursing profession are on the rise in the state, as the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median wage for a registered nurse in Utah is nearly $61,000 annually. With Utah’s mix of urban and rural areas, there are plenty of programs and schooling options to suit any prospective nursing student’s needs.
For RN bridge programs visit:
ADN Programs in Utah
If you’re looking to become a registered nurse in a relatively short amount of time, a 2-year Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) is a great option. Because these programs are shorter and more affordable than traditional 4-year degrees, they are increasingly popular. They also have the advantage of being widely available in most junior and/or technical colleges.
There are roughly 8 different schools in Utah that offer an ADN program at locations all across the state.
What to Look For in an ADN Program in Utah
Choosing a school to obtain your ADN will take some research and care. When looking into programs, it’s important to consider the following:
Accreditation
Accreditation is one major way to be assured that your ADN program is up to standards. National organizations such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and/or the American Association of Colleges of Nursing’s Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) are just a few that you’ll want to check for when researching your prospective school’s accreditations. You’ll also want to ensure that your school’s program is accredited locally by the Utah Board of Nursing.
Licensing
The goal of nursing programs is to prepare you to take the National Council Licensure Examination for licensure as a Registered Nurse (NCLEX) It’s a good idea to ensure that your program’s curriculum will fully prep you for the exam.
Program Outcomes
A good school will happily report statistics on their program’s success rates. The following are all good indications of the school’s reputation:
- Graduation rate
- Licensure exam pass rate
- Graduate satisfaction
- Employment rate
Stevens-Henager College, which is located in West Haven (Ogden), is an example of a Utah area college offering an accredited ADN program.
ADN Program Admission Requirements in Utah
ADN programs can be competitive, and you’ll need to ensure that you meet the mandatory requirements to be admitted. Here is a sampling of requirements that you may be subject to:
- All pre-requisite courses completed with a grade of C or better, and a cumulative GPA of 3.0 for all pre-requisite courses
- Provide results of the Kaplan entrance exam
- Current BLS card holder
- Pay application fees
Tuition and Costs of ADN Programs in Utah
Paying for school can seem stressful. You’ll have to factor in the cost of tuition, as well as additional fees including textbooks, uniforms, and other extras. These fees may or may not be included with the tuition price; it is always wise to look at the breakdown of what your tuition will cover at your school of choice. The estimated cost for the three-semester ADN program at Dixie State University in St. George, Utah is approximately $10,000.
Advantages of ADN Programs
There are so many routes to becoming a registered nurse, it’s hard to know what the right choice is for you. ADN programs are ideal for those who want a shorter amount of time in school, or for those who are budget-sensitive, as ADN programs tend to be less expensive. Since ADN programs are usually found at junior and/or technical colleges, it can also be easier to find one close to where you live.
BSN Programs in Utah
If you are willing to go through a lengthier program in return for greater career opportunities and earning potential, a 4-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) might be for you. Jobs such as public health nurses and nurse educators can be obtained if you hold a BSN. In addition to a traditional 4-year BSN, there is also a shorter RN to BSN option available at many schools for those who are already licensed as registered nurses.
There are roughly 5 schools in Utah that offer BSN programs throughout the state.
What To Look For in a BSN Program in Utah
Choosing your BSN program can be a tough decision. You will want to take things like proper accreditation, cost, and overall program effectiveness into account when you are comparing BSN programs and schools. You may also want to see if any online courses are offered, and if you are already an RN, you’ll want to inquire about whether an RN to BSN program is available at your prospective school.
A great example of a school that offers an accredited BSN program in the state is the Brigham Young University located in Provo.
BSN Program Length in Utah
You can expect to be in school for 4 years if you are going for a traditional BSN. If you are interested in completing your BSN quicker than this, many schools are now offering accelerated BSN programs that can be completed in as little as 16 months. An RN to BSN program, for those who already hold a nursing license, can last 1-2 years depending on the program’s schedule.
BSN Program Admission Requirements in Utah
While specific admission requirements tend to vary depending on the school, here are a few BSN requirements to consider:
- Completed all pre-requisite courses with a grade of C or higher
- List of community, school, and/or church service over the past 5 years
- Impromptu essay with points given for content, organization, spelling & grammar, and more
- Letters of recommendation
Tuition and Costs of BSN Programs in Utah
The cost of tuition and fees is one of the biggest things to factor in when considering going for your BSN. Remember that tuition may or may not include extras such as books, uniforms, and other mandatory fees. As an example, the estimated cost for a BSN at Dixie State University in St. George is approximately $8,000, which doesn’t include additional classes that may be needed to fulfill the general education requirements.
Advantages of BSN Programs
Earning your BSN is an excellent way to enter the world of advanced nursing. Not only will you have more employment opportunities (and for jobs that require a higher degree of responsibility), but you will also get paid more than an RN who doesn’t hold a BSN. Many large public and private universities offer BSN programs, so it’s easy to find a world-class program in most bigger cities.
MSN Programs in Utah
To take your career beyond what a BSN can offer, a Master’s of Science in Nursing degree (MSN) is what you’ll need to achieve. This advanced degree can lead to nursing jobs including Clinical Nurse Specialist, Certified Nurse Midwife, and Nurse Practitioner, among other specialties. An MSN is available to you if you already hold your BSN degree.
With a handful of schools in Utah offering an MSN program, finding a program to suit your needs is a snap.
MSN Program Length in Utah
Depending on the program and the type of schedule you choose, an MSN can take roughly 2-3 years. Because you must already hold a BSN to go through an MSN program, many schools make it easy for working RNs to complete the program by offering flexible schedules and/or online classes.
MSN Admission Requirements in Utah
Admission requirements can vary, but here are a few that you’re likely to see when comparing MSN programs:
- BSN in nursing with a cumulative GPA of 3.0
- Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores, taken within the last 5 years
- Personal statement
- 2 letters of recommendation
Tuition and Costs of MSN Programs in Utah
You can expect to incur some costs when going for your MSN. Each school will have its own tuition and fees, and it’s important to inquire about what exactly tuition will cover so you know what additional expenses you may need to handle. As an example, Westminster College in Salt Lake City estimates its tuition costs for their MSN program to be roughly $44,520.
For NP programs visit:
- Utah DNP Programs
- Utah FNP Programs
- Utah Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Utah Post-Graduate Certificate Nursing Programs
![2021 Best Direct Entry MSN Programs Without GRE [Nursing Schools]](https://www.mydegreeguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/msn-programs-without-gre.jpg)
Getting a Utah Nursing License
Utah State Board of Nursing provides the license to RN’s through either examination process or endorsement for candidates from other states.
If looking for licensure by examination in Utah, complete the application forms and submit the following supporting documentation:
- Criminal Background Check – with fingerprints (2)
- Register for the NCLEX – successful outcome upon completion
- Official transcripts – either sent directly from the school to the Board or sealed in an envelope bearing the school stamp
- Register for NCLEX – successful completion required
For licensure by endorsement you must in addition to the requirements above submit these few other pieces of documentation:
- Verification of licensure from originating state of issuance
Learn more about UT RN license requirements at the Utah Department of Commerce – Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing.
Accelerated Nursing Programs in Utah
Become a BSN nurse within 12 months time when you take one of the accelerated BSN programs at a college in Utah. Accelerated programs are rigorous due to the nature of full-time studies and clinical hours required, but are well worth the time and effort. Most programs have entrance requirements that must be meet before being accepted into the program, each program has different requirements, so looking into the specific program requirements in recommended. Fees for these programs can vary depending on the college, additional course needed and housing possibilities.
Best RN Programs in Utah
#1
Western Governors University
4001 S 700th E, Ste 700, Salt Lake City, UT 84107 (877) 435-7948
The mission of Western Governors University’s nursing programs are to improve the quality of healthcare by training nurses that excel in their field. Students enrolled in their BSN pathway take the pre-nursing curriculum in the first 6-month term, followed by the clinical nursing curriculum, which spans four 6-month terms. Clinicals take place in area partner hospitals.Score: 99.10| Programs: BSN#2
Brigham Young University
551 KMBL, Provo, UT 84602 (801) 422-4173
Brigham Young University is committed to increasing the number of nurses in Utah communities that are well versed in the ‘Healer’s Art’. Through BYU’s full-time BSN program, nurses learn to promote health and healing while leading with faith and integrity, all while sticking to an evidence-based and patient-centered nursing model. Students have the benefit of a dedicated Nursing Learning Center to enhance their education.Score: 97.34| Programs: BSN#3
Southern Utah University
351 W University Blvd, Cedar City, UT 84720 (435) 586-7700
At Southern Utah University, nursing graduates are taught with an emphasis on communication, critical thinking, and problem solving. Ethics and quality patient care are also integral elements of their program. All aspects are incorporated into the practical and theoretical components of their renowned BSN program.Score: 93.11| Programs: BSN#4
University of Utah
10 South 2000 East, Salt Lake City, UT 84112 (801) 581-3414
The University of Utah, located in Salt Lake City, offers a pre-licensure BSN program with both fall and spring start times. The curriculum includes courses and instruction that train nurses for modern nursing practice, emphasizing evidence-based skills and competencies. The University of Utah’s first-time NCLEX pass rates are consistently above the national average.Score: 91.39| Programs: BSN#5
Roseman University
10920 S. River Front Parkway, South Jordan, UT 84095 (801) 302-2600
A career in nursing will be one of great challenge and reward; Utah’s Roseman University graduates are ready to accept that challenge. The school’s BSN program takes just 18 months to complete, and with no more than 48 students enrolled at a time, personal attention is maximized. Graduates enter the field with the clinical skill and knowledge to affect positive change in the healthcare arena.Score: 90.17| Programs: BSN
Continued List of All RN Programs in Utah
| Ranked | Program | Score | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Utah Valley University800 W University Pkwy, Orem, UT 84058 (801) 863-4636Programs: Associate in Nursing, BSN | 89.70 | uvu.edu |
| #7 | Ameritech College of Healthcare2035 N 550 W, Provo, UT 84604 (801) 377-2900Programs: Associate in Nursing, BSN, MSN | 89.63 | ameritech.edu |
| #8 | Fortis College in Salt Lake City3949 South 700 East, Suite 150, Salt Lake City, UT 84107 (801) 713-0915Programs: Associate in Nursing | 89.31 | fortis.edu |
| #9 | Salt Lake Community College4600 South Redwood Rd, Salt Lake City, UT 84123 (801) 957-7522Programs: Associate in Nursing | 87.59 | slcc.edu |
| #10 | Westminister College1840 South 1300 East, Salt Lake City, UT 84105 (801) 832-2152Programs: BSN | 86.87 | westminstercollege.edu |
| #11 | Weber State University3848 Harrison Blvd, Ogden, UT 84408 (801) 626-6000Programs: Associate in Nursing, LPN to RN | 85.02 | weber.edu |
| #12 | Dixie State University225 South University Avenue, St George, UT 84770 (435) 879-4810Programs: BSN | 83.78 | health.dixie.edu |
| #13 | Utah State University2695 Old Main Hill, Logan, UT 84322 (435) 797-9684Programs: Associate in Nursing, BSN | 82.77 | nhp.usu.edu |
| #14 | Stevens-Henager College1890 South 1350 West, West Haven, UT 84401 (801) 392-1471Programs: Associate in Nursing | 79.22 | stevenshenager.edu |
| #15 | Provo College1450 W 820 North, Provo, UT 84604 (801) 333-7133Programs: BSN | 68.37 | provocollege.edu |
| #16 | Eagle Gate College5588 South Green Street, Murray, UT 84123 (801) 333-7133Programs: BSN | 63.51 | eaglegatecollege.edu |
| #17 | Snow College150 College Ave, Ephraim, UT 84627 (435) 283-7000Programs: Associate in Nursing | 59.44 | snow.edu |
| #18 | Nightingale College175 South Main Street, Suite 400, Salt Lake City, UT 84111 (801) 689-2160Programs: Associate in Nursing, BDN | 53.72 | nightingale.edu |
| #19 | Arizona College of Nursing – Salt Lake City434 West Ascension Way, Murray, UT 84123 (855) 706-8382Programs: BSN | – | arizonacollege.edu |
Online NP Programs in Utah
SEARCH FOR SCHOOLS Select a Degree Associate’s Bachelor’s Master’s Doctorate Certificate / Diploma Graduate Certificates Select a Category Art & Design Business & Management Computers & Technology Criminal Justice & Legal Education & Teaching Liberal Arts & Humanities Nursing & Healthcare Psychology & Counseling Science & Engineering Select a Subject Clinical Research Emergency Management Gerontology Health Education Health Informatics Health Science Health Services Healthcare Administration Healthcare Management Human Services Nurse Practitioner (RN Required) Nursing (RN required) Nursing Education (RN Required) Nutritional Sciences Public Health Speech Therapy FIND SCHOOLSAD
By NursePractitionerSchools.com Staff
Table of Contents
- Online Nurse Practitioner Programs Based in Utah
- Utah Nurse Practitioner Career Information
- Licensure for Nurse Practitioners in Utah
- Other Requirements for Utah Nurse Practitioners
- Resources for Utah Nurse Practitioners
- Nearby States
Utah outpaces all but one state for projected job growth for nurse practitioners (NPs), ranking fifth in the nation among states with a predicted deficit of primary care physicians. NPs in Utah may help fill the gap. They can work independently, without ongoing physician supervision, with the authority to prescribe most medications.
Utah’s unemployment rate for bachelor’s degree-holders or higher sits just below 2%. With world-class ski areas and national parks, such as Zion and Bryce Canyon, the state offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities. A recent ranking gave Utah high scores for its economy, infrastructure, and fiscal stability.
Our guide describes typical features of NP programs in UT and includes a listing of the best nurse practitioner programs in the state. You’ll find information on the admissions process, specialization options, steps to become licensed, potential salary, and resources for students and practitioners. Read on to discover if NP programs in Utah align with your educational and career goals.
Online Nurse Practitioner Programs Based in Utah
NP programs in Utah offer master of science in nursing (MSN) degrees and doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degrees. Currently, a master’s degree constitutes the minimum educational requirement for becoming licensed in Utah, but that could change. A nationwide effort by advocacy groups seeks to require a DNP to become licensed, so students should consider this option going forward.
OTHER BENEFITS OF OBTAINING A DNP INCLUDE HIGHER SALARIES AND MORE OPPORTUNITIES FOR LEADERSHIP AND HIGHER-LEVEL SPECIALTY POSITIONS.
Other benefits of obtaining a DNP include higher salaries and more opportunities for leadership and higher-level specialty positions. Students typically start by earning a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN), which takes four years, or pursuing a master’s degree, which generally takes two years. Some students progress to DNP programs, which add 2-3 years to the educational process. However, more institutions offer BSN-to-DNP pathways that students can complete in three years.
Utah NP programs feature online or hybrid class delivery options, with in-person attendance required for clinical hours. MSN students complete several hundred clinical hours, while DNPs usually complete at least 1,000 hours providing supervised patient care.
MSN STUDENTS COMPLETE SEVERAL HUNDRED CLINICAL HOURS, WHILE DNPS USUALLY COMPLETE AT LEAST 1,000 HOURS PROVIDING SUPERVISED PATIENT CARE.
Admission requirements often include one year of nursing experience; current registered nurse (RN) license; BSN or MSN from an accredited institution; professional statement; resume or CV; letters of recommendation; and official academic transcripts. Some programs may require an interview.
Before applying to programs, students choose a specialization, such as adult-gerontology, family care, neonatal, psychiatric-mental health, or women’s health. Different specialties impose different admission and curriculum requirements, such as minimum GPAs, test scores, or prerequisite coursework.
NP program details vary, so applicants should research specific schools to ensure a good fit.
Complete List of Online Nurse Practitioner Programs in Utah
StateDegree LevelSchool TypeEnvironmentClear All Filters22 ResultsFILTERING BY:UTAHONLINE
| SCHOOL | PROGRAMS | TUITION & FEES | ACCEPTANCE RATE | STUDENT POPULATION | SCHOOL TYPE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AmeriTech College-Draper Draper, UT | Associates, Registered Nursing/Registered NurseBachelors, Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse | In-state: $18,458 Out-of-state: $18,458 | 77.98% | 1,458 | Both Online and Campus |
| Brigham Young University-Provo Provo, UT | Bachelors, Registered Nursing/Registered NurseMasters, Family Practice Nurse/NursingMasters, Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse | In-state: $5,000 Out-of-state: $5,000 | 79.02% | 36,554 | Both Online and Campus |
| Dixie State University Saint George, UT | Certificate, Nursing Assistant/Aide and Patient Care Assistant/AideAssociates, Registered Nursing/Registered NurseBachelors, Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse | In-state: $4,103 Out-of-state: $13,118 | 34.76% | 8,993 | Both Online and Campus |
| Eagle Gate College-Layton Layton, UT | Associates, Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse | In-state: $15,089 Out-of-state: $15,089 | 59.32% | 492 | Both Online and Campus |
| Eagle Gate College-Salt Lake City Salt Lake City, UT | Associates, Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse | In-state: $23,288 Out-of-state: $23,288 | 73.08% | 323 | Both Online and Campus |
| Everest College-Salt Lake City West Valley City, UT | Bachelors, Nursing Practice | In-state: $14,256 Out-of-state: $14,256 | 53.48% | 613 | Both Online and Campus |
| Midwives College of Utah Salt Lake City, UT | Associates, Direct Entry MidwiferyBachelors, Direct Entry MidwiferyMasters, Direct Entry Midwifery | In-state: $4,235 Out-of-state: $4,235 | 241 | Online | |
| Nightingale College Ogden, UT | Associates, Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing, Other | 64.29% | 175 | Both Online and Campus | |
| Provo College Provo, UT | Associates, Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse | In-state: $14,807 Out-of-state: $14,807 | 55.36% | 711 | Both Online and Campus |
| Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions Provo, UT | Doctoral, Nursing PracticeDoctoral, Nursing Science | 532 | Both Online and Campus | ||
| Salt Lake Community College Salt Lake City, UT | Certificate, Nursing Assistant/Aide and Patient Care Assistant/AideAssociates, Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse | In-state: $3,040 Out-of-state: $10,582 | 15.88% | 46,857 | Both Online and Campus |
| Snow College Ephraim, UT | Certificate, Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse TrainingCertificate, Nursing Assistant/Aide and Patient Care Assistant/AideCertificate, Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants, OtherCertificate, Registered Nursing/Registered NurseAssociates, Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants, OtherAssociates, Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse | In-state: $2,998 Out-of-state: $10,952 | 39.3% | 5,507 | Both Online and Campus |
| Southern Utah University Cedar City, UT | Bachelors, Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse | In-state: $5,416 Out-of-state: $17,874 | 50.36% | 14,675 | Both Online and Campus |
| Stevens-Henager College Murray, UT | Bachelors, Nursing AdministrationBachelors, Registered Nursing/Registered NurseMasters, Nursing AdministrationMasters, Nursing Education | In-state: $16,968 Out-of-state: $16,968 | 28.77% | 3,199 | Both Online and Campus |
| Tooele Applied Technology College Tooele, UT | Certificate, Nursing Assistant/Aide and Patient Care Assistant/Aide | 38.33% | 607 | Both Online and Campus | |
| University of Phoenix-Utah Salt Lake City, UT | Bachelors, Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse | In-state: $10,252 Out-of-state: $10,252 | 21.09% | 2,560 | Both Online and Campus |
| University of Utah Salt Lake City, UT | Bachelors, Pre-Nursing StudiesBachelors, Registered Nursing/Registered NurseMasters, Registered Nursing/Registered NursePost-Masters Certificate, Nursing PracticeDoctoral, Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse | In-state: $6,889 Out-of-state: $24,111 | 62.21% | 37,582 | Both Online and Campus |
| Utah State University Logan, UT | Certificate, Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse TrainingAssociates, Pre-Nursing StudiesAssociates, Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse | In-state: $5,320 Out-of-state: $17,320 | 49.77% | 34,915 | Both Online and Campus |
| Utah Valley University Orem, UT | Associates, Registered Nursing/Registered NurseBachelors, Registered Nursing/Registered NurseMasters, Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse | In-state: $4,542 Out-of-state: $14,074 | 31.16% | 39,501 | Both Online and Campus |
| Weber State University Ogden, UT | Associates, Registered Nursing/Registered NurseBachelors, Registered Nursing/Registered NurseMasters, Nursing Administration | In-state: $4,611 Out-of-state: $12,980 | 34.73% | 26,809 | Both Online and Campus |
Utah Nurse Practitioner Career Information
The data below shows that Utah’s mean annual wages for NPs fall below the average of all U.S. states, while its job growth projection exceeds the national figure by nearly 15%. Compared to its neighboring states, Utah NPs earn more than their Idaho counterparts but make less than NPs in other nearby states. However, Utah’s job growth projection rises well above the other states, except Arizona.
Family nurse practitioner (FNP) ranks as the most popular specialty certification role at 56%, and for those interested in FNP programs, Utah schools offer them at the MSN and DNP levels. The state’s top employment setting, hospital inpatient care at 19%, employs NPs and FNPs in such specialties as geriatric, neonatal, oncological, pediatric, and primary care.
| SALARY | JOB GROWTH | |
|---|---|---|
| U.S. | $110,030 | 36.1% |
| Utah | $105,840 | 50.9% |
| Arizona | >$110,750 | 57.7% |
| Nevada | $112,540 | 38.8% |
| Idaho | $102,600 | 34.8% |
| Wyoming | $116,030 | 38.1% |
| Colorado | $111,210 | 45.6% |
| New Mexico | $109,810 | 30.8% |
Source: BLS, Projections Central
Licensure for Nurse Practitioners in Utah
In Utah, the Division of Occupational Professional Licensing (DOPL) issues NP licenses at the advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) level.
DOPL requires the following:
- Fingerprints for a criminal background check
- Official transcripts documenting completion of an MSN or DNP degree program
- Documentation of passing a national specialty certification exam and current national certification
- Completion of 4,000 clinical hours, 3,000 of which candidates must log after passing a national certification exam
- Completed application and $135 fee
- For holders of non-Utah RN licenses, verification of current RN or APRN license from the issuing jurisdiction
- For applicants who will prescribe medication, an application for a controlled substance license with $100 fee
APRN licenses expire each even-numbered year on January 31. Each licensee must complete a renewal application and pay a $68 fee, along with maintaining their national specialty area certification.
APRNs with prescriptive authority must complete 3.5 hours of continuing education in controlled substances prescribing, with 30 additional minutes from the DOPL online tutorial. Their renewal fee totals $146, and they must maintain their national specialty area certification.
Late renewers pay reinstatement fees for up to two years. APRNs with licenses that have been expired more than two years cannot renew. They must submit a new application.
Other Requirements for Utah Nurse Practitioners
Once NP licensure candidates earn their graduate degree, they can apply for national certification in their chosen specialty areas. The major credentialing organizations include the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses, the American Nurses Credentialing Center, and the National Certification Corporation. These organizations require candidates to obtain clinical hours in their certification, along with official transcripts and a passing score on the applicable examination.
NPs must earn their continuing education credits from a DOPL-approved organization authorized to provide controlled substances continuing education courses, including InforMed, NetCE, Substance Education Institute, and Utah Medical Association.
THE STATE RECOGNIZES NPS AS PRIMARY CARE PROVIDERS THAT CAN PROVIDE DIRECT CARE TO PATIENTS INDEPENDENTLY. THEY CAN ALSO PRESCRIBE DRUGS, DEVICES, AND CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES.
Utah’s practice and prescriptive authority fall within the category of reduced practice, due to limits on the scope of prescriptive authority. The state recognizes NPs as primary care providers that can provide direct care to patients independently. They can also prescribe drugs, devices, and controlled substances. However, if the NPs work independently, have held their licenses for less than a year, have logged less than 2,000 hours of practice experience, or own a pain clinic, they can only prescribe under a consultation and referral plan with a physician.
Psychiatric-mental health NPs must complete 3,000 hours of clinical practice experience before they receive prescriptive authority.
INFORMATION FOR OUT-OF-STATE NURSE PRACTITIONERS
Utah participates in the nurse licensure compact (NLC), which allows RNs and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) in NLC member states to practice in other NLC states on a single multi-state license. The compact only applies to RN and LPN licenses. Utah has not yet joined the APRN compact.
NPs licensed in other states can obtain a Utah APRN license if the board determines that the educational standards in their licensing state equal those of NP programs in Utah. Out-of-state NPs who need to complete additional coursework obtain temporary licenses. Practice and prescriptive authority vary by state.
International nurses must obtain CGFNS International certification to practice in Utah. APRNs must demonstrate competence with a passing score on an English proficiency test, professional licensed work experience in the U.S., completion of a board-approved refresher course, earning an advanced nursing degree, or qualifying for a license upgrade.
Resources for Utah Nurse Practitioners
- Utah Nurse PractitionersThis group seeks to promote the NP profession through clinical excellence, communication, education, legislative advocacy, research, and scholarship. Students can join at two membership levels: entry-level and NPs returning to school for additional education.
- Utah Nurses AssociationThis association collaborates with other organizations to unite and advocate for Utah’s 40,000 RNs. As part of the American Nurses Association, it offers practitioners and students dual membership in both associations.
- Utah Board of NursingAs the licensing agency for Utah’s nurses, the board provides information on licensure requirements and renewal procedures, examinations, laws and rules, continuing education, and practicing under a multi-state compact license.
- Utah Student Nurses AssociationMember benefits of this student group include mentoring, opportunities to serve on the board, educational resources, and an annual convention featuring speakers and breakout sessions geared to students.
- Utah Action Coalition for HealthAs part of the network of national action coalitions, this Utah group focuses on enhancing nursing education and training, increasing diversity among nurses, and breaking down barriers that affect patient care.
