Understanding Nursing School Tuition Costs: A Comprehensive Guide
Nursing is a rewarding and in-demand profession, but pursuing a nursing degree requires a significant financial investment. Understanding the various costs associated with nursing school is crucial for prospective students to make informed decisions and plan their finances effectively. This article provides a detailed overview of nursing school tuition costs, factors influencing these costs, and strategies for managing expenses.
Key Considerations Affecting Nursing School Costs
Nursing school costs aren’t one size fits all. What one student pays for their nursing program may be drastically different than what another pays although both earn the same degree. Several factors influence the overall cost of nursing school, including:
- Degree Type: The level of nursing degree you pursue (ADN, BSN, MSN, DNP) significantly impacts tuition costs.
- Program Length: Longer programs generally incur higher tuition fees.
- Enrollment Status: Full-time enrollment may have different cost structures compared to part-time enrollment.
- Institution Type: Public institutions typically offer lower tuition rates than private institutions. Non-profit and for-profit institutions may also have varying tuition structures.
- Location: The location of the school can affect tuition costs, as well as living expenses.
- Program Format: Online programs may have different tuition and fee structures compared to on-campus programs.
- Housing: On-campus vs. off-campus housing significantly impacts student expenses.
- Residency Status: In-state students generally pay lower tuition rates than out-of-state students.
- Financial Aid Eligibility: Eligibility for scholarships, grants, loans, and employer tuition reimbursement programs can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.
- Course Repetition: Needing to repeat courses will increase the overall cost of the program.
- Textbooks and Supplies: Nursing textbooks, stethoscopes, pen lights, scrubs, and suitable shoes contribute to the overall expenses. Expect to spend anywhere from $1,000 to more than $3,000 for textbooks every year. As a nursing student, you’ll also be required to wear uniforms and purchase your own medical devices such as a stethoscope, blood pressure apparatus, watch, goggles, thermometer and more. Items like these can span from $300 to $500.
- Personal Expenses: Meals, transportation, childcare, and other personal expenses should be factored into the overall budget. Conservatively speaking, expect housing, meals and other expenses to cost between $10,000 to $20,000 a year.
- Application fees and laboratory fees should also be on your list of eventual expenses.
Nursing Degree Options and Their Associated Costs
ADN Program Cost
An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is one of the most affordable routes to becoming a registered nurse (RN). These programs typically take two years to complete at a community college or technical school.
- Average Yearly Cost: According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average yearly cost of an ADN program is $12,300 as of 2022. This includes tuition, housing, and other fees.
- Total Program Cost: The entire two-year program can range from $23,900-$66,320.
- Public vs. Private: Public universities cost a yearly average of $11,950. Private school costs are between $24,950-$33,160 per year.
Average Cost of a Two-Year Degree (2021-22 Academic Year)
| Institution Types | Average Tuition and Required Fees | Average Room and Board | Average Tuition, Fees, Room, and Board |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Institutions | $3,600 | $8,360 | $11,950 |
| Private Non-Profit Institutions | $20,020 | $13,140 | $33,160 |
| Private For-Profit Institutions | $16,440 | $8,510 | $24,950 |
| All Institutions | $3,890 | $8,420 | $12,300 |
Source: NCES
BSN Degree Program Cost
A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a four-year degree that provides a more comprehensive nursing education. It is often preferred by employers and can open doors to advanced career opportunities.
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- Average Yearly Cost: Including tuition, housing, and other fees, the average yearly cost for BSN programs is $30,880 as of 2022, according to the NCES.
- Total Program Cost: The entire four-year program can range from $89,560-$211,390.
- Public vs. Private: Public schools cost a yearly average of $22,390 and private schools average between $27,770-$52,850 per year.
Average Cost of a Four-Year Degree (2021-22 Academic Year)
| Institution Types | Average Tuition and Required Fees | Average Room and Board | Average Tuition, Fees, Room, and Board |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Institutions | $9,750 | $12,640 | $22,390 |
| Private Non-Profit Institutions | $38,420 | $14,430 | $52,850 |
| Private For-Profit Institutions | $15,870 | $11,900 | $27,770 |
| All Institutions | $17,710 | $13,175 | $30,880 |
Source: NCES
MSN Degree Program Cost
A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is a graduate-level degree that prepares nurses for advanced practice roles, such as nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, and nurse educators. Nurses with a BSN can complete a traditional master’s degree in nursing (MSN) program in 1-2 years if enrolled full-time. Other options include RN-to-MSN bridge programs, allowing RNs with ADNs to earn an MSN in 2-4 years.
- Average Cost: According to the NCES, the average cost for MSN programs ranges from $15,030-$42,880 as of 2020.
- Average Yearly Cost: The average yearly cost is $12,480 and includes tuition and fees without room and board.
- Public vs. Private: Students pursuing master’s degrees at public institutions can expect to pay around $9,340 per year. The average yearly cost of private schools ranges from $9,510-$21,440.
Average Cost of a Graduate Program: Master’s Degree in a Health Profession or Related Program (2019-20 Academic Year)
| Institution Types | Average Tuition and Fees Paid | Average Price of Attendance/Student Budget |
|---|---|---|
| Public Institutions* | $10,150 | $25,460 |
| Private Non-Profit Institutions* | $18,000 | $33,620 |
| Private For-Profit Institutions | $12,200 | $31,670 |
| All Institutions | $13,700 | $29,970 |
Source: NCES
*Includes doctoral- and non-doctoral-offering schools
DNP Degree Program Cost
A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a terminal degree for nurses seeking the highest level of clinical expertise. Nurses with an MSN can complete traditional doctor of nursing practice (DNP) programs after 2-4 years of full-time study. RNs with undergraduate degrees can earn a DNP in 3-6 years through nursing bridge programs.
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- Average Cost: The NCES reports the average cost of (in research, scholarship, professional practice, and others) ranging from $63,570-$172,280 as of 2020.
- Average Yearly Cost: The average yearly cost is $61,080, including tuition and fees without room and board.
- Public vs. Private: Learners enrolled in DNP programs at public institutions pay an average tuition of $23,390 per year. The average cost of private schools ranges from $28,280-$43,070 per year.
Average Cost of a Graduate Program: Doctoral Degree (2019-20 Academic Year)
| Institution Types | Average Tuition and Fees Paid | Average Price of Attendance/Student Budget |
|---|---|---|
| Public Institutions | $15,570 | $32,760 |
| Private Non-Profit Institutions | $25,290 | $44,770 |
| Private For-Profit Institutions | $9,510 | $23,900 |
| All Institutions | $16,790 | $33,810 |
Source: NCES
Strategies for Paying for Nursing School
Nursing school tuition can be expensive, but there are several ways to make it more affordable:
- Scholarships and Grants: Explore scholarships and grants specifically for nursing students. Many organizations and institutions offer financial aid based on academic merit, financial need, or specific demographics. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a great place to start seeking help to fund your nursing education.
- Student Loans: Federal and private student loans can help cover tuition and other expenses. Research different loan options and repayment plans to find the best fit for your financial situation.
- Part-Time Work: Working part-time while attending school can provide income to cover tuition or get a head start on loan payments.
- Employer Tuition Reimbursement: After graduation, tuition payback programs might be available through an employer.
- Military Programs: Military rates are defined as active duty, veterans, retired military, Department of Defense and Veterans Affairs employees and spouses of active duty/veteran/retired military.
Tuition Rates Examples
Tuition rates are determined by various factors. For example, undergraduate and graduate programs have different rates. Some programs are tuition-based and charge different rates for Washington and non-Washington residents. Some are fee-based programs and charge the same rate regardless of your state of residence.
- CU Anschutz Nursing: CU Anschutz Nursing tuition rates vary based on what degree program you’re in and your residency status.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN Online): \$780 per credit hour (Effective January 2026)
- RN to BSN: \$635 per credit hour (Effective July 2025)
- MSN & Certificate Expenses (non-NP courses): \$750 per credit hour (Effective January 2026)
- DNP Degree Expenses: \$830 per credit hour (Effective July 2025)
Additional Costs and Fees
As a student at School of Nursing and UW student, it is important to consider additional costs that may arise during your educational experience, depending on your coursework and activities.
- Immunizations (Students with clinical coursework must maintain up-to-date immunizations.
- Each quarter, you must submit the appropriate tuition exemption form and pay the required fee in advance.
- You will also be charged a technology fee, which is charged per credit of enrollment.
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