Skip to main content
Official State of Iowa Website Here is how you know
Kathleen R. Weinberg, MSN, RN, Executive Director

Nursing Education Regulation

The Iowa Board of Nursing approves nursing programs that exist in Iowa. The board has the authority to regulate pre and post licensure programs.Pursuant to 655 Iowa Administrative Code, Chapter 2, Section 2.3 (152), nursing programs are given full approval by the board, for a period up to 6 years, through an on-site survey.

Iowa Approved Ed Programs  

The Iowa Board of Nursing does not approve out-of-state nursing programs. the board accepts approved out-of-state programs for initial licensure, endorsement, and Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner approved registration. 

When considering an out-of-state nursing program please contact the state board of nursing in the location of the educational institution. Questions to ask the state board of nursing of the out of state program you are wanting to attend: 

  1. What agency regulates the program?
  2. What is the approval process for approved nursing programs? 
  3. What type of accreditation does the program have?
  4. Does the program have accreditation from a national nursing accreditation agency?

Not all state boards of nursing approve or regulate post-licensure nursing programs. It is important to identify the agency that regulates or accredits the program. 

Updated 11/8/22