Top Nursing Schools in Alabama for 2025
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Thinking about a nursing career in Alabama? Great choice! Whether you want to study in a big city like Birmingham or prefer a smaller, close-knit campus, Alabama is home to some of the top nursing programs in the South. From nationally ranked schools like UAB (currently #13 in the U.S. for BSN programs) to schools with NCLEX pass rates as high as 100%, there’s something for every type of nursing student here.
Whether you’re fresh out of high school, transferring from another program, or already a working nurse looking to level up your degree, this guide breaks down the best nursing schools in Alabama for 2025 — including tuition costs, pass rates, enrollment sizes, and more. Let’s help you find the right fit for your goals and budget!
Best nursing schools in Alabama
University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB)
If you’re aiming for a powerhouse in healthcare education, UAB’s School of Nursing is tough to beat. Located in the vibrant city of Birmingham, UAB is nationally recognized for its cutting-edge curriculum, clinical excellence, and research leadership. In fact, its Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is ranked #13 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report (2024). UAB’s School of Nursing is also among the top 10 in the country for NIH research funding, which means students benefit from access to groundbreaking studies and real-world applications of health science. Below are the key details of UAB School of Nursing
| Category | Details |
| Location | Birmingham, Alabama |
| National Ranking | #13 for BSN Program (U.S. News & World Report, 2024) |
| Programs Offered | BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNP, PhD |
| NCLEX Pass Rate | Consistently above the national average (latest: ~93–95%) |
| Student Enrollment | ~2,500 nursing students across all programs |
| Clinical Affiliations | UAB Health System, Children’s of Alabama, VA Medical Center |
| Tuition | Approx. $11,040/year (in-state BSN); $26,520/year (out-of-state) |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | ~10:1 for clinical courses |
| Facilities | High-fidelity simulation center, dedicated skills labs, telehealth suites |
| Financial Aid | Scholarships, grants, work-study, and tuition assistance available |
University of Alabama (Capstone College of Nursing)
If you’re looking for a top-quality nursing education in a lively college town, the Capstone College of Nursing in Tuscaloosa is a fantastic choice. Each student begins with general education courses, then moves into five semesters of focused upper-division nursing coursework. With an impressive NCLEX-RN pass rate of around 92%, Capstone graduates are well-prepared to succeed in their licensure exams and nursing careers. The school serves about 1,800 nursing students and is ranked in the top 10% of undergraduate nursing programs nationwide by U.S. News & World Report (2023). Below are the key details of University of Alabama (Capstone College of Nursing):
| Category | Details |
| Location | Tuscaloosa, Alabama |
| Programs Offered | BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNP |
| NCLEX Pass Rate | ~92% (consistently above national average) |
| Student Enrollment | ~1,800 undergraduate and graduate nursing students |
| Tuition | In-state: ~$11,100/year; Out-of-state: ~$31,100/year |
| Clinical Partnerships | Over 1,000 healthcare sites statewide, including DCH Regional Medical Center |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | ~12:1 |
| Special Resources | Simulation labs, high-fidelity mannequins, clinical placement support |
| Reputation | Top 10% nationally ranked BSN program (U.S. News & World Report, 2023) |
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University of South Alabama- College of Nursing
Located in the coastal city of Mobile, the University of South Alabama’s College of Nursing is one of the largest and most comprehensive nursing programs in the state. With over 3,000 students currently enrolled, it offers a wide variety of courses such as Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to online RN-to-BSN, Accelerated BSN, and graduate degrees like the MSN, DNP, and numerous post-graduate certificates.
It is especially popular among working nurses returning for advanced degrees, and offers more than 15 nursing specialty tracks, including Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Neonatal NP, Psychiatric Mental Health NP, and Nurse Anesthesia. The program boasts a competitive NCLEX-RN pass rate of approximately 89–91%. Following are the key details of University of South Alabama’s College of Nursing:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Mobile, Alabama |
| Student Enrollment | ~3,000 nursing students across undergraduate and graduate levels |
| Programs Offered | BSN, RN to BSN (online), Accelerated BSN, MSN, DNP, Post-Graduate Certificates |
| Specialties Available | Over 15 MSN/DNP specializations (FNP, PMHNP, Neonatal NP, Anesthesia, etc.) |
| NCLEX Pass Rate | ~89–91% (recent average – competitive) |
| Tuition (BSN) | Approx. $10,294/year (in-state); scholarships and financial aid available |
| Learning Format | On-campus, online, and hybrid programs |
| Facilities | Advanced simulation labs, telehealth suites, and clinical skills centers |
| Accreditation | CCNE-accredited (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education) |
Auburn University School of Nursing
Located in Auburn, one of Alabama’s most vibrant college towns, Auburn University’s School of Nursing offers a dynamic and supportive environment for students pursuing nursing careers. Auburn’s BSN program is among the top in the state, with a three-year NCLEX pass rate average of 98.56% — the highest for baccalaureate programs in Alabama.
The school currently enrolls over 1,000 undergraduate and graduate nursing students. Students benefit from small clinical groups, strong faculty support, and active participation in organizations like the Alabama Association of Nursing Students (AANS). Auburn also offers MSN and DNP programs, including Family Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Educator tracks. Below are the key details of Auburn University:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Auburn, Alabama |
| Student Enrollment | ~1,000+ nursing students (undergrad & grad) |
| Programs Offered | BSN, RN to BSN (online), MSN, DNP |
| NCLEX Pass Rate | ~98.56% (three-year average – top in Alabama) |
| Tuition (BSN) | In-state: ~$11,826/year; Out-of-state: ~$31,986/year |
| Class Sizes | Small clinical groups (~8:1 student-clinical instructor ratio) |
| Facilities | Modern simulation labs, clinical suites, collaborative classrooms |
| Student Orgs | AANS, Auburn Nurses Without Borders, Nursing Honor Societies |
| Clinical Affiliations | Hospitals and health systems across Alabama and Georgia |
| Accreditation | CCNE-accredited; approved by Alabama Board of Nursing |
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University of Mobile School of Nursing
Set in the city of Mobile, the University of Mobile’s School of Nursing is a great choice for students looking for small class sizes, personalized mentorship, and a strong sense of purpose in their nursing education. One of the most remarkable aspects of this program is its 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate for recent cohorts.
The program is part of the College of Health Professions, which emphasizes interprofessional collaboration and servant leadership in healthcare. Students can pursue a BSN or MSN, with the flexibility of evening and online formats for working professionals. Below are the key details of University of Mobile’s School of Nursing:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Mobile, Alabama |
| Student Enrollment | ~500 nursing students |
| Programs Offered | BSN, RN to BSN, MSN |
| NCLEX Pass Rate | 100% (recent cohorts – exceptional performance) |
| Tuition | Approx. $23,500/year; Scholarships, faith-based aid, and evening options |
| Class Sizes | Small, ~10:1 student-faculty ratio in clinical settings |
| Mission Focus | Christian worldview, servant leadership, compassionate care |
| Facilities | Clinical labs, simulation mannequins, spiritual development programs |
| Accreditation | CCNE-accredited; endorsed by the Alabama Board of Nursing |
Conclusion
No matter where you’re starting from or where you want to go in your nursing career, Alabama offers excellent options to get you there. Want cutting-edge research and big hospital connections? Check out UAB. Looking for a faith-based program with one-on-one mentorship? The University of Mobile might be perfect. Need flexible learning formats or accelerated programs? Schools like South Alabama have you covered. Just pick the one that feels like home and take the next step toward becoming a nurse in 2025.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top nursing schools in Alabama for 2025?
Alabama offers several esteemed nursing programs. According to recent rankings, notable institutions include:
- University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) School of Nursing: Renowned for its cutting-edge curriculum and clinical excellence.
- University of Alabama (Capstone College of Nursing): Offers a robust BSN program with impressive NCLEX pass rates.
- Auburn University School of Nursing: Known for its supportive faculty and high NCLEX pass rates.
- University of South Alabama College of Nursing: Provides a variety of nursing programs, emphasizing research and community service.
- University of Mobile School of Nursing: Offers a BSN program with a focus on Christian values and boasts a 100% NCLEX pass rate.
How are the top nursing schools in Alabama ranked nationally?
Top nursing schools in Alabama, like the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) School of Nursing, are nationally ranked for their academic excellence, research innovation, and clinical partnerships. UAB’s BSN program is currently ranked #13 in the U.S. by U.S. News & World Report (2024), making it one of the most prestigious nursing schools not only in Alabama but nationwide.
What are the NCLEX pass rates for nursing schools in Alabama?
NCLEX pass rates are one of the best indicators of a nursing school’s success. Here's how Alabama’s top nursing programs stack up:
- Auburn University: ~98.56% (three-year average – highest in the state)
- University of Mobile: 100% (recent cohorts – perfect score)
- UAB: ~93–95%
- University of Alabama (Capstone): ~92%
- University of South Alabama: ~89–91%
Choosing a program with a high NCLEX pass rate ensures you're well-prepared for licensure.
What is the tuition cost for nursing programs in Alabama?
Tuition for BSN programs in Alabama varies by institution and residency status. Here’s a quick breakdown (in-state annual estimates):
- University of South Alabama: ~$10,294/year
- UAB: ~$11,040/year
- University of Alabama (Capstone): ~$11,100/year
- Auburn University: ~$11,826/year
- University of Mobile: ~$23,500/year (private university)
Most schools offer financial aid, scholarships, and work-study programs to help offset costs.
Are there online nursing programs in Alabama?
Absolutely. Alabama is home to several online RN-to-BSN and MSN programs. Schools like the University of South Alabama and UAB offer flexible online formats for working nurses who want to advance their careers while balancing work and family responsibilities.
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