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Best Value Registered Nursing Colleges in Utah

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

Utah Valley University delivers the state's most affordable nursing education at just $8,463 net cost, while Joyce University graduates earn $80,022 annually. This $71,559 earnings gap between programs reflects the varied pathways available across Utah's 15 nursing schools. The state's expanding healthcare network, bolstered by major systems like Intermountain Health and University of Utah Health, creates strong demand for nursing professionals across administration, research, and clinical roles. Public universities dominate the affordable options, with five schools under $14,000 net cost, while private institutions command premiums up to $32,097. Western Governors University stands out with its competency-based model producing graduates earning $75,430 with minimal debt of $9,470. The range spans from Brigham Young University's faith-based approach at $14,487 to specialized for-profit colleges exceeding $30,000 annually.
15
Programs
$8,463 – $32,097
Net Price Range
$59,988
Avg. Program Earnings
55.5%
Avg. Graduation Rate

15 Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $10,442 $75,430 $8,300 50.9%
2 $8,463 $54,894 $6,270 40.7%
3 $10,722 $54,382 $6,391 43.0%
4 $11,432 $53,108 $6,770 59.0% 83.9%
5 $13,172 $57,995 $9,315 63.9% 89.1%
6 $15,265 $57,318 $6,074 34.2%
7 $14,487 $48,752 $6,496 82.2% 66.7%
8 $31,013 $80,022 $20,780 47.1% 97.4%
9 $26,536 $57,995 $41,416 69.4% 69.8%
10 $28,945 $16,491 52.8%
11 $12,869 $9,228 57.3% 93.7%
12 $30,255 $16,491 63.6%
13 $29,378 45.0%
14 $32,097 68.0%
15 $31,831 $22,586 100.0%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Western Governors University strong for nursing value in Utah?

Western Governors University combines a $10,442 net cost with $75,430 graduate earnings, creating one of the strongest return-on-investment ratios statewide. Students graduate with just $9,470 in debt while earning nearly $21,000 more than typical Utah nursing graduates. The university's competency-based online model allows working professionals to accelerate through familiar material. However, the 50.90% graduation rate suggests this self-paced approach requires significant self-discipline.

How do public universities compare to private nursing schools in Utah?

Public universities offer substantial savings, with five schools under $14,000 net cost compared to private institutions averaging over $25,000. Utah Valley University leads at $8,463, while private Joyce University charges $31,013 but delivers the highest graduate earnings at $80,022. Public graduates typically earn $53,000-$58,000 annually, creating a cost-benefit decision between immediate affordability and long-term earning potential. Debt loads also favor public schools, averaging $12,000-$18,500 versus $21,000-$47,000 at private institutions.

Does graduation rate correlate with program cost in Utah nursing schools?

Higher-cost programs generally show better completion rates, though exceptions exist. Brigham Young University achieves an outstanding 82.20% graduation rate at $14,487 net cost, while Utah Tech University manages only 34.20% despite reasonable $15,265 pricing. Joyce University graduates 47.10% of students despite charging $31,013 annually. The pattern suggests that institutional support and student selectivity matter more than price alone in determining success rates.

Where do Utah nursing graduates find the strongest job markets?

Utah's healthcare sector benefits from major employers like Intermountain Healthcare, University of Utah Health, and the growing medical device industry along the Wasatch Front. Salt Lake City and surrounding areas offer the most opportunities, with four nursing schools serving this metropolitan region. Graduates earning $75,000-$80,000 typically work in specialized roles or administrative positions within these large healthcare systems. The state's 2.8% unemployment rate and business-friendly environment create additional opportunities in corporate health services and medical technology companies.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.