How to Become an RN in Utah: 5 Steps
Are you wondering how to become an RN in Utah? Ranked as one of 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 — ensure your time off is just as fulfilling as the work you do.
Ready to get started? This guide covers everything you need to know to become an RN — from education and licensing to finding the best-fitting roles in the state’s healthcare system.
How to Become an RN in Utah: Fun Facts
- High demand: Utah has one of the nation’s lowest nurse-to-population ratios, with fewer than seven nurses per 1,000 people.
- 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 3.5% unemployment rate, lower than average across the U.S., 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.
What Does an RN in Utah Do?
Your first step in learning how to become an RN in Utah is to understand the key duties of this job. RNs in Utah play a vital role in delivering high-quality healthcare across hospitals, clinics, and specialized care facilities. Due to the nursing shortage in the state, RNs here often take on diverse responsibilities, like 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.
Furthermore, your responsibilities can vary significantly depending on your specialty and where you work. Here are examples of healthcare facility types in Utah:
- General hospitals
- Psychiatric hospitals
- Critical access hospitals
- Long-term care and skilled nursing facilities
- Home health and hospices
- Assisted living facilities
- Federally qualified health centers
- Public health districts
How Long Does It Take to Become an RN in Utah?
The timeline for becoming an RN in Utah varies based on the educational pathway you choose. Here’s a breakdown of the different routes and their typical durations:
| Degree type | Approximate timeline |
|---|---|
| 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 program | 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
Excited to dive into your RN career? 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 hands-on clinical rotations and comprehensive coursework covering subjects such as advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and nursing leadership.
Utah offers more than 25 nursing programs for you to explore. Reflect on your goals, financial situation, and schedule to identify the best route for you.
| BSN Programs | ADN Programs |
|---|---|
Considering a BSN degree? Here’s a rundown of Utah’s top nursing schools to help you find the perfect fit:
|
Considering an ADN program? These community colleges can guide you along the way:
|
Nursing school can come with a hefty price tag, but there are many strategies to help manage the expenses. Consider the following options:
- Seek out nursing scholarships.
- Research available loans and grants for healthcare professionals.
- Look for student nurse jobs in UT, which can provide both experience and income.
- Explore programs that offer loan repayment assistance after graduation.
- Research tuition assistance programs offered by employers.
Step 2: Take the NCLEX-RN Exam
Understanding how to become an RN in Utah involves not just completing your education but also passing 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 wait for your authorization to test (ATT), which will help you schedule your exam. The registration fee is $200.
- Request official transcripts that show your graduation from an accredited nursing program. Transcripts are official if sent directly to the Utah Department of Commerce Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL) from the school or delivered in a sealed envelope with the school’s seal. Foreign graduates need to provide evidence showing 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 by creating an online account or by mail. Wait 14–21 business days for your application to be reviewed and approved.
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. In addition to a passing score on the NCLEX, requirements include completing a background check through an approved vendor and obtaining a fingerprint card.
Next, submit an online application through the DOPL, which includes a $90 application fee. You’ll have two licensing options: a state-specific license or 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 polishing your nursing resume.
Step 4: Start Your Job Hunt
With healthcare being one of the top employment sectors in the state, you’ll have an abundance of RN job opportunities to choose from. Where do you envision yourself as a nurse? From hospitals to specialty clinics, there’s a wide range of options available for you.
Ready for a fast-paced acute care position? Check out these top-rated hospitals that could be your next workplace:
- University of Utah Health
- MountainStar Healthcare
- IHC Health Services
- Ashley Regional Medical Center
- Beaver Valley Hospital
- Blue Mountain Hospital
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 License Up to Date
Becoming an RN marks the beginning of an exciting journey — but keeping your license current 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 expires on January 31 of odd 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?
Now that you know how to become a registered nurse in Utah, you might be curious about your future earnings. The average salary for RNs in the Beehive State is $83,100. 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
Still have questions about how to become an RN in Utah and build a solid career? Check out these helpful resources to have your questions answered:
- 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.