How to Become an RN in Utah: 5 Steps
Are you wondering how to become an RN in Utah? The process involves three main steps: earning a nursing degree, passing the NCLEX exam, and obtaining RN licensure. Keep in mind that each state has unique licensing requirements, and this article covers all the Utah-specific details you need to know.
Ranked among the best states in the U.S., the Beehive State offers exceptional opportunities for healthcare professionals. With top-rated hospitals, prestigious educational institutions, competitive salaries, and abundant job opportunities, Utah is a great place to succeed as a nurse. And when it’s time to recharge, the state’s breathtaking landscapes — from red rock deserts to snow-capped mountains — can help make your time off fulfilling.
How to Become an RN in Utah: Interesting Facts
- High demand: Utah has about 7 nurses per 1,000 people, reflecting a higher-than-average demand for nursing professionals.
- Top-rated healthcare facilities: Utah is home to renowned hospitals, including the University of Utah Hospital, ranked among the best in the nation.
- Strong job market: With a 3.3% unemployment rate, lower than the national average, Utah offers plenty of opportunities.
- Quality of life: Utah is known for its stunning natural beauty, including 5 national parks and numerous outdoor recreational activities like hiking, skiing, and mountain biking.
- Family-friendly environment: Low crime rates, excellent schools, and well-developed infrastructure make Utah a great place to build both a career and a home.
Becoming an RN in Utah: A Snapshot Into the Role
With a clear understanding of how to become a registered nurse in Utah, you might be curious about what RNs actually do. Registered nurses are essential to providing high-quality healthcare in hospitals, clinics, specialized care facilities, and even nonclinical settings. Common responsibilities of RNs include the following:
- Provide direct patient care: Conducting patient assessments, administering medications, and developing and implementing care plans.
- Promote preventative care: Educating patients about healthy lifestyles, performing health screenings, and managing chronic conditions.
- Assist in diagnostic procedures: Preparing patients for tests, assisting physicians during examinations, and monitoring for post-procedural complications.
- Support rural communities: Providing telehealth assessments, monitoring patients’ health status, and connecting patients with necessary resources.
- Maintain accurate documentation: Managing patient records, creating notes in electronic health records (EHR), and witnessing informed consent.
Additionally, your duties may differ depending on your nursing specialty and work setting. Here are some types of healthcare facilities where you could build your career:
- General hospitals
- Psychiatric hospitals
- Long-term care and skilled nursing facilities
- Home health and hospices
- Assisted living facilities
- Schools
- Public health agencies
How Long Does It Take to Become an RN in Utah?
Completing the steps of how to become an RN in Utah takes about two to four years, depending on the educational path you choose. Here’s a breakdown of your options:
| Degree type | Description |
|---|---|
| Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) | Offered at community colleges, this degree typically takes about two years to complete and is often the fastest route to becoming an RN. |
| Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) | Offered at universities and nursing schools, this four-year degree is increasingly preferred by healthcare employers. |
| Accelerated BSN (ABSN) | For those with a bachelor’s degree in another field, accelerated BSN programs offer a direct pathway to a nursing degree, typically taking 12–18 months. |
| Bridge programs | Aimed at individuals with prior medical education, such as paramedics and LPNs, nursing bridge programs are perfect for advancing careers without starting from scratch. |
How to Become an RN in Utah: 5 Steps
Ready to become an RN? Here are five essential steps to guide you toward your goal.
Step 1: Complete an Accredited Nursing Program
Begin by enrolling in an accredited nursing program — either an ADN or BSN. Your education will include comprehensive coursework covering subjects such as pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment, as well as clinical rotations at hospitals.
Considering a BSN degree? Here’s a rundown of Utah’s top nursing schools to help you find the perfect fit:
- Brigham Young University
- Westminster College
- Joyce University of Nursing and Health Sciences
Considering an ADN program? These community colleges can guide you along the way:
- Arizona College of Nursing – Salt Lake City
- Eagle Gate College
- Fortis College – Salt Lake City
- Nightingale College
- Provo College
Nursing school can come with a hefty price tag, but there are many strategies to help manage the expenses. Consider the following options:
- Consider working while in nursing school.
- Seek out nursing scholarships.
- Research available loans and grants for healthcare professionals.
- Explore programs that offer loan repayment assistance after graduation.
- Research tuition assistance programs offered by employers.
Step 2: Take the NCLEX-RN Exam
Your next step in becoming an RN in Utah is to pass the NCLEX — a comprehensive exam that evaluates everything you learned in nursing school and determines if you’re ready to step into real-world patient care. Here’s how to register for the exam:
- Sign up for the NCLEX through Pearson VUE and pay the $200 registration fee.
- Submit official transcripts showing graduation from an accredited nursing program. Transcripts must be sent directly from your school to the Utah Department of Commerce Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL). Foreign graduates must show that their education is equivalent to an approved program.
- Provide proof of residency in Utah; if you’re from another compact state, you’ll need to apply there.
- Obtain your authorization to test from DOPL. Application review usually takes 14–21 business days.
Keep in mind, in Utah, you must pass the NCLEX before applying for your RN license. In case you don’t pass on your first attempt, you’ll need to request another authorization to test from DOPL prior to retaking the exam.
Step 3: Apply for the Utah RN License
Your final milestone in the journey of how to become an RN in Utah is obtaining your RN license. You’ll need to submit an online application through the DOPL, which includes a $90 fee. In addition to a passing score on the NCLEX, requirements include completing a background check through an approved vendor and obtaining a fingerprint card.
There are two types of licenses you can apply for:
- A state-specific license
- A multistate license through the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows you to work in over 40 states.
Once your application is reviewed and approved, you’ll receive your RN license. After that, you can verify your license status and start working on your nursing resume — because you’re now a licensed RN ready to apply for jobs.
Step 4: Start Your Job Hunt
Where do you envision yourself as a nurse? From hospitals to specialty clinics, you’ll have an abundance of RN job opportunities to choose from. Here are some examples of hospitals, outpatient clinics, and residential care facilities across the state:
- Ageless Men’s Health – Salt Lake City
- Canyon Home Care and Hospice
- Molina Healthcare of Utah
- MountainStar Healthcare
- Newport Academy
- University of Utah Health
- Utah Valley Specialty Hospital (Earnest Health)
Have a passion for research? Utah is filled with a variety of biotech, pharmaceutical, and life sciences companies like Velocity Clinical Research. If you’re drawn to public health, consider opportunities with the Utah Department of Health or contribute to initiatives at the Utah Health Policy Project.
Step 5: Keep Your RN License Up to Date
Learning how to earn an RN license in Utah is just the beginning — staying current with your license is vital for your professional growth. Here’s what you need to know about renewing your nursing license in Utah:
- Your license must be renewed every 2 years, and it expires on January 31 of odd-numbered years.
- You have 3 options to meet continuing education requirements: Complete at least 400 hours of licensed practice, complete at least 200 hours of licensed practice plus 15 hours of approved continuing education, or finish 30 hours of approved continuing education.
- You must also complete an approved suicide prevention course as part of your continuing education requirements.
How Much Do RNs Earn in Utah?
The average salary for RNs in the Beehive State is $88,240. Keep in mind, though, that this can change based on your experience, qualifications, and workplace setting.
Nursing salaries are generally higher in urban centers. Consider beginning your job search in Utah’s five most populous cities:
Helpful Resources for Utah Nurses
Want additional information on how to become an RN in Utah and launch a successful career? These resources can help answer your questions:
- Central Utah Health Department
- Utah Hospital Association
- Utah Nurses Association
- Utah Nurse Practice Act
- Utah Student Nurse Association
Looking for an RN Job that Works for You?
You’ve learned how to become an RN in Utah — now it’s time to put that knowledge into action. Explore a range of high-quality nursing jobs that align with your lifestyle and aspirations on IntelyCare today.