Mississippi nursing schools offer affordable academic programs online that prepare graduates for certification. The anticipated demand for nurses coupled with financial incentives, such as loan forgiveness and state grants, make Mississippi a great place for nursing students.
This guide explores how to become a nurse in Mississippi, the salary and job outlook, and the best nursing programs available in the state. Keep reading to learn more about the top nursing schools and programs in Mississippi.
The Best Nursing Schools in Mississippi
How We Rank Schools
We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best nursing programs, making it easy to find a program that meets your needs. Informed by data from the most reputable sources, including the U.S. Department of Education, our methodology is based on metrics that matter most to nursing students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. This list has not been updated for 2025.
How to Choose a Nursing Program in Mississippi
When deciding on a program, applicants should consider various factors based on their professional and academic goals. Prospective students need to research features, such as tuition, program length, and financial aid resources for nurses.
Make sure the nursing institution is accredited and review its National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) scores and graduation rates. These numbers can demonstrate program strength.
Why Become a Nurse in Mississippi
With a selection of affordable academic programs, above-average NCLEX pass rates, and low cost of living, Mississippi is a great state for students to become either an RN or advanced practice registered nurse (APRN).
Nurses in Mississippi also benefit from the state's membership in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). As one of 36NLC states, Mississippi has agreed to a set of rules and procedures that all licensed RNs must follow.
The NLC makes it easier for Mississippi RNs to work in another state with minimal paperwork. Nurses with an NLC license also do not have to pay license renewal fees, and they can provide telehealth nursing care to patients across state lines.
Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Mississippi
At $61,250, the average annual RN salary in Mississippi is lower compared to all but two other states, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Nurse practitioners (NPs) in Mississippi fare better, earning $109,550.
While nurses in the state earn less than the majority of the country, Mississippi's residents benefit from the lowest cost of living of all 50 states. Earnings can go much farther than in areas with a higher cost of living.
Like most other states, Mississippi also expects an increase in the demand for nurses. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, Mississippi ranks 34th in demand, with a projected 6% employment growth from 2018-2028. However, projections may change due to COVID-19, as nurses leave the field or retire due to exhaustion fueled by the pandemic.
Highest-Paying Cities for Nurses in Mississippi
The highest-paying cities in Mississippi are located in the more densely populated areas, such as the state's capital of Jackson. Nurses employed here earn the highest average salary.
The cities south and east of the capital round out the best-paying locations. With the northern part of the state being less populated, central cities down toward the Gulf of Mexico provide the best salaries.
| Top Paying Metropolitan Areas | Average Salary for RNs |
|---|---|
| Jackson | $66,100 |
| Gulfport — Biloxi — Pascagoula | $65,150 |
| Hattiesburg | $54,090 |
Steps to Becoming a Nurse in Mississippi
To become an RN or an APRN in Mississippi, prospective nurses should complete a program approved by the state's Institutions of Higher Learning. After fulfilling certain academic requirements, those who completed an undergraduate program must pass the NCLEX-RN to apply for licensure. Nurses earning a graduate degree apply for state licensure in their chosen nursing specialty.
Both RNs and APRNs must satisfy continuing education requirements to maintain their license and continue practicing as a nurse in the state.
RN Requirements
To become an RN in Mississippi, prospective nurses must graduate from an accredited nursing program with either anassociate degree in nursing (ADN) or abachelor of science in nursing (BSN). Upon completion, prospective nurses must pass the NCLEX-RN exam, which costs $200.
Once they pass the certification exam, nurses submit an application for licensure to the state, which includes an application fee ($100) and a criminal background check fee ($75).
RNs must complete a minimum of 20 contact hours of continuing education per license renewal period. The renewal period starts on January 1 of odd-numbered years and ends on December 31 of each even-numbered year. Nurses can carry over a maximum of 10 hours from their previous renewal period.
APRN Requirements
To become an APRN in Mississippi, nurses need an unencumbered RN license that allows them to practice in the state. RNs must earn amaster of science in nursing ordoctorate of nursing practice . Mississippi's board of nursing requires national certification in one of the following four advanced practice roles: nurse anesthetist, nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, or clinical nurse specialist.
APRNs should complete a minimum of 40 contact hours of continuing education per license renewal period, which follows the same dates as the RN renewal. They are allowed to carry over a maximum of 20 hours from their previous renewal period. At least 10 contact hours must be related to controlled substances. APRNs cannot use carryover hours to satisfy this requirement.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Mississippi
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