MoWest nursing ranked No. 1 program in the state of Missouri by top nursing website
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- One of the top websites for nursing is recognizing MoWest's nursing program with the No. 1 rank in the state among more than 40 schools analyzed.
MoWest's nursing program was recently ranked No. 1 by RegisteredNursing.org as part of its 10th annual list of the best nursing schools in the state of Missouri this August.
MoWest was one of 46 schools, including both public two- and four-year universities, analyzed during the research and rankings process.
"This recognition comes at a time when nursing is more important than ever. With ongoing workforce shortages and rising patient needs, programs like Missouri Western State University’s are critical in preparing highly skilled graduates who can immediately make an impact in local hospitals, clinics, and community health settings," a website spokesperson said.
Missouri's Top Ten Best Nursing Schools of 2026
1. Missouri Western State University
2. UMKC
3. St. Charles Community College
4. Missouri Southern State University
5. Ozarks Technical Community College
6. Saint Louis University
7. Bolivar Technical College
8. College of the Ozarks
9. Missouri State University
10. University of Central Missouri
Rankings focused exclusively on NCLEX pass rates, offering an objective measure of program success. The NCLEX-RN exam is used by all state boards of nursing across the United States to help assess a student’s competency and is required for licensure.
Research by RegisteredNursing.org found that MoWest's top program strengths include high-tech nursing simulation labs, senior capstone courses for real-world prep and research opportunities with experienced faculty.
"Students benefit from a comprehensive curriculum integrating general education and specialized nursing courses, supported by state-of-the-art simulation labs and diverse clinical experiences in St. Joseph and Kansas City. The program boasts remarkable NCLEX-RN pass rates, with 98.8% in 2023 and a perfect 100% in 2024, demonstrating exceptional student preparation."
Additional program strengths:
- Combines general and nursing education.
- Small class sizes for personalized learning.
- Prepares students for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Missouri State Board of Nursing approved.
"With small class sizes ensuring personalized learning, experienced faculty, and CCNE accreditation, the program provides robust training for aspiring nurses," the report read.
Military-friendly and focusing on practical skills, students receive comprehensive preparation for professional nursing practice through a senior capstone course and opportunities for faculty-guided research.
The need for nurses is expected to become even greater over the next 10 years, with Missouri projected to see a 7% increase in nursing positions due to an ongoing shortage.
