Idaho Colleges Launched New Accelerated Nursing Program

North Idaho College and the University of Idaho have opened applications for a two-year graduate nursing degree.

Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Nursing Jobs

Idaho Colleges Launched New Accelerated Nursing Program

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North Idaho College and the University of Idaho have officially opened applications for a new Direct Entry Master of Science in Nursing. The two-year graduate program is specifically designed for students who hold a bachelor's degree in a different field.

Why it matters

This initiative aims to bolster the state's healthcare infrastructure by directly addressing Idaho's ongoing nursing workforce shortage. By providing a pathway for career changers, the program seeks to increase the number of qualified medical professionals in the region.

The program is a two-year graduate-level course that requires students to complete prerequisites offered at North Idaho College. Idaho currently reports 5.9 registered nurses per 1,000 people.

The players

North Idaho College

This educational institution provides the necessary simulation lab resources and prerequisite coursework for the new nursing program.

University of Idaho

This public research university partnered with North Idaho College to develop and offer the master-level nursing degree.

State Board of Education

This regulatory body is responsible for overseeing the educational standards and approval processes for degree programs across Idaho.

The details

Students will utilize North Idaho College simulation lab resources and gain hands-on clinical experience through placements in regional hospitals. The program received formal approval from the State Board of Education in August 2025.

August 2025: The State Board of Education approved the nursing program.
September 21, 2026: Applications for the new degree officially opened.
Fall 2027: The first cohort of students will begin classes.

Market Landscape

This program reflects a broader trend of institutions creating accelerated pathways to combat persistent regional labor shortages in high-demand medical sectors. It positions these colleges to fill critical gaps in the workforce by attracting professionals from diverse academic backgrounds.

Prospective students with non-nursing bachelor degrees now have a local pathway to transition into a medical career in two years. Residents may benefit from an increased supply of qualified nurses in regional hospitals once graduates enter the workforce.

The takeaway

This graduate program offers a vital bridge for career changers looking to enter the high-demand healthcare sector in Idaho. Applicants should focus on completing the required prerequisite coursework at North Idaho College to satisfy the entry criteria.