Are you searching for the best nursing schools in North Dakota? Whether you're starting your journey in healthcare or advancing your nursing career, finding the right nursing program is essential. In or near North Dakota, you’ll find a range of accredited nursing programs, from entry-level certificates to advanced nursing degrees.
Explore nursing schools in North Dakota to choose the right program for your future in nursing.
North Dakota Nursing Degree Programs
RN to BSN Programs in North Dakota
RN to BSN programs in North Dakota are tailored for registered nurses who want to expand their skills, advance in their careers, or pursue graduate education. These programs can often be completed in 12 to 18 months and focus on leadership, research, and community health. Many schools offer flexible online formats to accommodate working nurses.
RN to BSN and RN to MSN Bridge Programs by Specialization in North Dakota
Bridge programs in North Dakota provide registered nurses with clear academic pathways to higher degrees. RN to BSN programs help build leadership and public health expertise, while RN to MSN bridge programs allow for specialization in roles such as family nurse practitioner, nurse educator, or clinical nurse leader. These programs are designed to fit into the schedules of working professionals through evening, weekend, and online formats.
University of Mary BSN, RN Nursing Programs in Bismarck, North Dakota
Emphasis on ethical and compassionate patient care, reflecting Benedictine values.
BSN program typically includes clinical rotations in diverse healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and community health organizations within North Dakota.
RN programs (often RN-BSN completion programs) cater to working nurses seeking to advance their education and career opportunities.
Curriculum integrates nursing theory, evidence-based practice, and hands-on skills training.
Potential career paths include hospital nursing, clinic nursing, public health nursing, leadership roles, and advanced practice nursing with further education.
Strong focus on critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills, essential for modern nursing practice.
Nursing Schools in Bismarck, North Dakota
Address: 7500 University Dr, Bismarck, North Dakota 58504
Rasmussen University-North Dakota Nursing Programs in Fargo, North Dakota
Comprehensive curriculum encompassing foundational nursing concepts, medical-surgical nursing, maternal-newborn nursing, pediatrics, and mental health nursing.
Extensive clinical experience in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health organizations.
Emphasis on developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills essential for effective patient care.
Faculty comprised of experienced registered nurses and healthcare professionals dedicated to student success.
NCLEX-RN preparation woven throughout the curriculum, including practice exams, review sessions, and personalized support.
Focus on patient safety, ethical decision-making, and cultural sensitivity in nursing practice.
Career services assistance to help graduates with resume writing, job searching, and interview skills.
Nursing Schools in Fargo, North Dakota
Address: 4012 19th Avenue SW, Fargo, North Dakota 58103-7196
North Dakota State College of Science ASN, BSN, LPN, RN, RN to BSN Nursing Programs in Wahpeton, North Dakota
Provides multiple entry points into nursing, catering to different educational backgrounds and career goals.
Focuses on practical skills and hands-on training, especially in clinical settings, preparing graduates for immediate entry into the workforce.
Offers flexible learning options, potentially including online or hybrid courses, particularly for the RN to BSN completion program.
Emphasizes foundational knowledge in areas like anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and patient care principles.
May include opportunities for specialization in areas like geriatrics, pediatrics, or community health within certain programs.
Prepares students for the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN exam, depending on the program, ensuring they are eligible for licensure.
Provides career advancement opportunities through the RN to BSN program, allowing nurses to further their education and expand their professional horizons.
Nursing Schools in Wahpeton, North Dakota
Address: 800 N 6th St, Wahpeton, North Dakota 58076-0002
Mayville State University BSN, MSN, Nurse Educator, Nursing Admin/Leadership, RN Nursing Programs in Mayville, North Dakota
Emphasis on rural healthcare: Programs are often tailored to address the specific healthcare needs of rural communities, common in North Dakota.
BSN as a foundational degree: BSN programs provide a comprehensive foundation in nursing principles, patient care, and critical thinking skills.
Advanced Practice Options: MSN programs with specializations like Nurse Educator or Nursing Administration/Leadership equip nurses for roles in education or management.
Career Advancement: Programs facilitate career progression, allowing RNs to advance their education and expand their scope of practice.
Small Class Sizes: Universities like Mayville State often offer smaller class sizes, fostering close interaction with faculty and personalized learning.
Clinical Experiences: Strong emphasis on clinical experiences in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and community health organizations.
Focus on leadership and evidence-based practice: Advanced programs promote leadership skills and the application of research findings to improve patient outcomes.
Nursing Schools in Mayville, North Dakota
Address: 330 Third Street NE, Mayville, North Dakota 58257-1299
Minot State University BSN, Pre-Nursing, RN, RN to BSN Nursing Programs in Minot, North Dakota
Pre-Nursing programs provide a foundational science and humanities curriculum to prepare students for application to a BSN program.
The BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program prepares students for entry-level registered nurse positions and focuses on critical thinking, patient care, and leadership skills.
RN (Registered Nurse) programs, potentially offered through partnerships or collaborations with local hospitals, provide accelerated pathways for individuals with prior healthcare experience to become RNs.
RN to BSN programs are designed for working registered nurses who hold an associate's degree or diploma in nursing to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, enhancing their career prospects and knowledge base.
Curriculum in all programs emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical clinical experience through simulations and rotations in various healthcare settings.
Graduates are prepared to sit for the NCLEX-RN examination, the national licensure exam for registered nurses.
Common career paths include hospital nursing, clinic nursing, long-term care, public health, and school nursing.
Nursing Schools in Minot, North Dakota
Address: 500 University Ave W, Minot, North Dakota 58707
Bismarck State College Nursing Programs in Bismarck, North Dakota
Comprehensive curriculum covering anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, microbiology, and nursing fundamentals.
Extensive clinical experiences in diverse healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health organizations.
Focus on developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills essential for providing safe and effective patient care.
Emphasis on ethical and legal considerations in nursing practice.
Integration of evidence-based practice principles to inform nursing interventions.
Preparation for the NCLEX-RN examination, the national licensure exam for registered nurses.
Opportunities for career advancement and specialization in various nursing fields.
Nursing Schools in Bismarck, North Dakota
Address: 1500 Edwards Ave., Bismarck, North Dakota 58506-5587
1. What types of nursing programs are available in North Dakota?
Nursing schools in North Dakota offer various programs, including:
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) programs – Entry-level training for nursing assistants.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) programs – Typically one year of training.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) – A two-year program that prepares you for the NCLEX-RN exam and RN licensure.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – A four-year degree that provides more career opportunities and higher earning potential.
RN-to-BSN programs – Designed for current RNs who want to earn a BSN.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Advanced education for specialized nursing roles, such as nurse practitioner or nurse educator.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) – The highest level of clinical nursing education.
2. How do I choose the best nursing school in North Dakota?
When selecting a nursing school, consider factors like accreditation, NCLEX pass rates, clinical training opportunities, tuition costs, and program flexibility (online, hybrid, or in-person).
3. Why is nursing school accreditation important?
Accreditation ensures your program meets high educational standards. Nursing programs should be accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Attending an accredited school is required for licensure and financial aid eligibility.
4. How do I check if a nursing program in North Dakota is accredited?
You can verify accreditation by visiting the school’s website, checking the ACEN or CCNE directories, or contacting the State Board of Nursing in North Dakota.
5. How long does it take to complete a nursing program?
The duration depends on the type of program:
CNA program: A few weeks to a few months.
LPN/LVN program: About 12 months.
ADN program: 2 years.
BSN program: 4 years.
RN-to-BSN program: 12-24 months.
MSN program: 2 years (after BSN).
DNP program: 3-4 years.
6. Can I complete a nursing program online?
Some programs, such as RN-to-BSN, MSN, and DNP, offer online coursework. However, pre-licensure programs (like ADN and BSN) require in-person clinical training.
7. What is the NCLEX, and why is it important?
The NCLEX-PN (for LPNs) and NCLEX-RN (for RNs) are national exams required for licensure. Graduating from an accredited program is necessary to sit for these exams.
8. What financial aid options are available for nursing students?
Students enrolled in accredited nursing programs may qualify for:
Federal financial aid (Pell Grants, loans, and work-study programs).
State grants and scholarships.
Nursing-specific scholarships.
Employer tuition assistance programs.
9. What are the job opportunities for nurses in North Dakota?
Nurses in North Dakota can work in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, home healthcare, and specialized care facilities. Advanced degrees open opportunities in leadership, education, and specialized nursing roles like nurse practitioner or nurse anesthetist.
10. How much do nurses earn in North Dakota?
Salaries vary based on education, experience, and location. On average:
CNA: $30,000 – $40,000 per year.
LPN/LVN: $45,000 – $55,000 per year.
RN (ADN or BSN): $65,000 – $90,000 per year.
MSN-prepared nurses: $90,000 – $120,000 per year.
Nurse practitioners and APRNs: $100,000 – $150,000 per year.