How long does it take to become a nurse in Utah?

It takes two years to complete an ADN program or four years for a BSN program, whether you attend nursing school in Utah or another state. A growing number of employers prefer a BSN, especially academic medical centers and higher-level positions. If you have a degree in another field, you may be eligible for an accelerated BSN program.

Are nurses in Utah in demand?

The BLS projects the demand for RNs to grow by 9% between 2020 and 2030. As one of the fastest-growing states in the country, Utah's demand for RNs may continue to expand as more healthcare workers retire or leave the field as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

What are the highest paying cities for nurses in Utah?

Salt Lake City is the highest-paying city for nurses in Utah, with an average salary of $68,680. St. George is the next highest at $67,040, and Ogden-Clearfield at $65,650. Provo-Orem offers an average RN salary of $64,960, with Logan's average salary at $64,790.

How much does nursing school cost in Utah?

Nursing programs in Utah cost between $25,000 to $120,000 for a four-year BSN program. An ADN program can cost between $5,000 and $30,000 for a two-year program. Individual costs vary based on financial aid, books and supplies, and commuting or boarding expenses.

Utah Nursing Schools And Programs

Increase your salary and job opportunities by becoming a registered nurse (RN) in Utah. Demand for RNs in Utah is projected to grow 25% from 2022 to 2032, according to Projections Central. This figure is much higher than the average 6% growth for RNs nationwide.

Whether you want to earn a or an associate degree in nursing (ADN), public and private nursing programs in Utah offer attractive options, often with very low in-state tuition. This guide includes only accredited schools, as unaccredited schools are not a good investment for your time and money.

The Best Nursing Schools in Utah

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 2026.

How to Choose a Nursing Program in Utah

Finding the right nursing school in Utah involves weighing factors, such as tuition and related costs, financial aid, the school's NCLEX-RN (nursing license exam) pass rate, the school's format and logistics, and program reputation. If you plan to attend nursing school in Utah online, inquire about getting a clinical placement in your community.

Why Become a Nurse in Utah

In addition to the increasing demand for nurses, nursing school in Utah more affordable; the average tuition in Utah is over $2,000 less than the national average, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.

Utah is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state, which means getting a Utah RN license allows you to work in other NLC jurisdictions without applying for a separate license.

Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Utah

The median annual salary for RNs in Utah is about $80,000, which is slightly below the national median of $87,00 for all RNs, according to the BLS. However, the projected job growth for nurses in Utah is one of the highest in the U.S.

Salt Lake City offers the highest median salary for RNs in the state, with only a slight differential between it and other Utah cities.

Besides competitive salaries, Utah offers great outdoor recreation opportunities, including motorbiking, hiking, camping, and skiing. Utah is home to some of the country's most stunning national parks and scenic attractions, such as Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Monument Valley, and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

One benefit of attending nursing school in Utah is access to recreation during vacation periods.

Highest Paying Cities for Nurses in Utah
Top Paying Metropolitan Areas	Median Salary for RNs
Salt Lake City	$68,680
St. George	$67,040
Ogden-Clearfield	$65,650
Provo-Orem	$64,960
Logan	$64,790

Source: BLS

Steps to Becoming a Nurse in Utah

Utah, like other states, requires a nursing degree from a state-approved school, passing the NCLEX, and a successful background check.

RN Requirements

To become an RN in Utah, you must earn an ADN or BSN and pass the NCLEX exam. An ADN takes two years to complete, while a BSN takes four years. You must apply for a license from the state board of nursing and have your school send official verification of your education and transcripts. You must also submit your fingerprints for a background check. The state government website offers a full list of requirements and a description of the process, including fees ($200 for the NCLEX-RN exam; $90 for license processing).

APRN Requirements

To become an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), you must graduate from a master of nursing science (MSN) or a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) program and pass the board certification examination.

Prospective RNs must pass a criminal background check and submit verification of education and certification. Nurse anesthetists should apply for a controlled substance license. The state board of nursing website lists the full requirements and process.