Top 10 Nursing Schools in Imo State (2025)
Are you searching for the best nursing schools in Imo State? Do you wish to study nursing at a university or a college of nursing? Whether you’re aiming for a degree in nursing or a diploma, this article will provide detailed information on all the top nursing schools in Imo State. You’ll find insights into fees, programs, certification types, and much more to guide your choice.
Nursing Schools in Imo State have become highly popular in southeastern Nigeria, attracting students from all around the region. The state offers more than 10 accredited nursing schools where students can pursue RN, BSN, MSN, or Doctoral Degree programs. However, each program has academic requirements that must be met, from specific subject combinations to meeting JAMB cut-off marks. We’ll explore these requirements later in this article to ensure you’re fully informed.
Nursing is a prestigious, well-respected profession in Nigeria and globally. It’s also a rewarding career, as nurses are consistently in demand, with salaries reflecting their essential role in healthcare. In Nigeria, registered nurses (RN) earn approximately 45,000 to 70,000 NGN monthly, while those with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) can earn up to 180,000 NGN per month.
Accredited by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria, the nursing schools in Imo State ensure you’re prepared to pass the NMCN Licensing Examination, a critical step to becoming a professional nurse.
Requirements for Admission to Nursing Schools in Imo State
To gain admission into nursing schools in Imo State, you must fulfill certain requirements:
- WAEC/NECO/NABTEB Credits: You need credit passes in Mathematics, English, Biology, Physics, and Chemistry, with no more than two sittings.
- JAMB Scores: Universities require a JAMB score in the range of 220-260, though colleges typically do not require JAMB.
- Entrance Exams: You must pass the school’s POST-UTME or other screening exams.
- Age Requirement: Candidates should be at least 16 years old.
While colleges of nursing do not require JAMB, they also do not offer a BSN degree. Instead, graduates receive a Registered Nurse (RN) or Registered Nurse-Midwife (RNM) diploma, which is an alternative but academically lower than a BNSc degree.
Schools of Nursing vs. University Departments of Nursing
Choosing between a college and a university program can significantly impact your career path:
- Colleges/Schools of Nursing: Programs typically last three years and grant an RN or RNM certificate.
- University Nursing Departments: Programs last five years, with an additional year of internship at a hospital. Graduates receive a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BNSc), which offers broader employment opportunities and often leads to higher salaries.
Those with a BSN or BNSc degree can work in a wider range of healthcare sectors and are generally more competitive than RN holders. Registered Nurses typically earn less and may face more limited job prospects.
List of Nursing Schools in Imo State
Here’s a list of some top nursing schools in Imo State:
1. Imo State College of Nursing and Midwifery, Orlu
Founded in 2013, this college is fully accredited and has consistently recorded a 100% pass rate in council examinations. The application fee for the 2025/2026 academic year is 18,500 NGN.
Location: Owerri-Orlu Road, Amakohia-Akwakuma, Owerri, Imo State.
2. St. Joseph College of Nursing Sciences, Mbaise
Known for its modern facilities and research focus, this college offers general nursing and basic midwifery programs. Graduates are eligible for NMCN registration as an RN.
Location: Umuokele Enyiogugu, Aboh Mbaise LGA, Imo State.
3. Imo State University (IMSU) Department of Nursing
IMSU offers a 5-year bachelor’s program and a 2-year master’s program in nursing. Admission requirements include 5 credits in core science subjects and a JAMB score within the required range.
Location: Owerri, Imo State.
4. Ezeala School of Nursing and Midwifery, Okwudor
Ezeala School is the first nursing polytechnic in southern Nigeria, offering diverse programs like Nursing, Midwifery, and Public Health.
Location: Orlu-Owerri Road, Umuseke-Okwudor, Njaba L.G.A, Imo State.
5. College of Nursing Sciences, Mbano (CONSMBANO)
Established in 2019, CONSMBANO provides nursing and midwifery programs accredited by the NMCN. The application fee ranges from 18,500 to 25,000 NGN, depending on the program.
Location: Umuduru Isiala Mbano, Imo State.
6. Merit College of Nursing Sciences, Orlu
This college offers over 28 accredited courses, supported by high-tech classrooms with telemedicine capabilities.
Contact: info@meritcollegeorlu.org.
Key Nursing Institutions in Imo State
- Princess College of Nursing Sciences, Mgbirichi
A private nursing school offering a 3-year program combining classroom instruction and hands-on training. Graduates receive the General Nursing Certificate (RN).
- Claretian University of Nigeria (CUN), Nekede
CUN provides a 5-year nursing program, resulting in a Bachelor of Nursing Science degree.
Location: Maryland Nekede, Imo State.
- College of Nursing Sciences, Emekuku
Holy Rosary College offers accredited nursing and basic midwifery programs, each lasting three years.
- Our Lady of Mercy Nursing School, Umulogho
This school offers general nursing, midwifery, and a post-basic nursing program.
- International Christian College of Nursing Sciences, Owerri
Known for its high standards, ICCNS offers a supportive environment for students and comprehensive nursing education programs.
- School of Basic Midwifery, Aboh Mbaise
Contact: 09037603426
Nursing Career Prospects
Nurses have extensive career opportunities across public and private sectors. They can work in hospitals, clinics, schools, elderly homes, and other healthcare institutions, or even start their own healthcare establishments.
Conclusion
We’ve outlined the best nursing schools in Imo State and provided details on their programs, requirements, and locations. Each school offers unique benefits, so take your time to choose the one that aligns with your career goals. Good luck on your journey to becoming a professional nurse!