The Top Nursing Schools in Minnesota

The Top Nursing Schools in Minnesota

Minnesota boasts over 40 state-approved nursing programs, offering either associate degrees in nursing (ADN) or bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). The state’s nursing salaries surpass the national average, coupled with a cost of living that is slightly below the national average. This combination positions pursuing nursing education in Minnesota as a strategic move for one’s career. With above-average earnings and a below-average cost of living, Minnesota provides an advantageous environment for nursing professionals. This comprehensive guide delves into the nursing programs available in Minnesota, shedding light on how to obtain an RN license within the state.

The Best Nursing Schools in Minnesota

For those aspiring to enter the nursing field, Minnesota presents excellent options at both the ADN and BSN levels. The choice between a two-year ADN program, offering a quicker path to licensure, and a four-year BSN program, which holds more value for those eyeing advanced degrees or higher-level positions, depends on individual career goals.

Methodology for Ranking Nursing Schools

To aid prospective students in choosing the most suitable program, we employ a data-driven methodology to rank the best nursing schools in Minnesota. Our approach considers crucial metrics such as academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. Leveraging publicly available provisional datasets from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), our rankings are up-to-date as of the article’s publication date. It’s important to note that program-specific details may vary.

The Top Nursing Schools in California

1. St Olaf College

Located in Northfield, MN, St. Olaf College stands out as one of the premier nursing schools in Minnesota, offering a BSN program with various concentration options. Students can specialize in promoting health and wellness, preventing illness, restoring health, or caring for the dying. While first-year admission is possible, most students typically commence their studies as sophomores. The curriculum covers holistic health, pharmacology, family health, gerontological nursing, and behavioral health. Clinical experiences are conducted at local sites, including the Children’s Hospital of Minnesota, Mayo Clinic, and the Veterans Affairs Medical Center.

– Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing
– Campus: Northfield, Minnesota
– Type: Private
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
– Tuition: $52,670 per year
– Admission Requirements: A minimum 2.85 cumulative GPA and prerequisite courses with a minimum 2.70 GPA
– Minimum Time Commitment: 48 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $49,710
– Out-of-state: $49,710
– Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: Not provided
– Out-of-state: Not provided
– Retention Rate: 91%
– Admission Rate: 48%
– Students Enrolled: 3,072
– Institution Type: Private
– Percent Online Enrollment: Not provided
– Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

2. University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

Operating one of the most prominent nursing schools in Minnesota since 1909, the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities offers a range of nursing programs and two clinics to train future nurses. The learning environment includes lecture halls, the simulated 11,000-square-foot Bentson Center, and the Health Science Education Center. Students can choose from a BSN, MSN, Ph.D. in nursing, or DNP. The university provides financial support through grants, waivers, fellowships, work-study programs, and scholarships, distributing around $2.1 million for the 2021-2022 academic year.

– Programs: Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing, Ph.D. in Nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice, Healthcare Design and Innovation Post-Baccalaureate Certificate, Leadership in Health Information Technology for Health Professionals Certificate, and Post-graduate Certificates
– Campus: Minneapolis, Minnesota
– Type: Public
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
– Tuition: $520 per credit for undergraduates; $1,018 per credit for graduate students
– Admission Requirements: Varies
– Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97.5% first-time pass rate
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $65,723 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
– Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $13,318
– Out-of-state: $31,616
– Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $17,580
– Out-of-state: $27,204

3. Dakota County Technical College (DCTC)

Situated in Rosemount, MN, DCTC offers a comprehensive practical nursing program that molds aspiring Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) through a mix of classroom lectures, simulated labs, and hands-on experiences. Clinical training takes place at local facilities in proximity to the Rosemount campus in Minnesota.

Over the course of two years, students complete 43 credits to prepare for the NCLEX-PN exam. The curriculum covers essential subjects such as anatomy and physiology, health career mathematics, lifespan development, and maternal and child health. In addition to coursework, learners engage in two clinicals and a nursing capstone project.

DCTC also provides the option to pursue a nursing assistant certificate.

Programs: Nursing assistant certificate and practical nursing diploma
Campus: Rosemount, Minnesota
Type: Public
Accreditation: National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation
Tuition: $201 for nursing assistant students; $222 for practical nursing students
Admission Requirements: TEAS scores, a criminal background check, a minimum 2.5 GPA, and prerequisite courses
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes

School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 94.5% first-time pass rate

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $5,220
Out-of-state: $5,220
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: Not provided
Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: 72%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 2,433
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 35%
Accreditation: Yes Higher Learning Commission

4. Alexandria Technical & Community College (ATCC)

ATCC in Alexandria, MN, stands as a key player in nursing education, offering a rapid path to becoming a Registered Nurse (RN) through its Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program.

The program spans two semesters and encompasses 64 credits. The initial phase delves into nursing fundamentals, covering essential topics such as human anatomy and physiology, lifespan psychology, and the principles of nutrition. Upon acceptance into the core nursing program, students engage in two clinicals and coursework focusing on advanced nursing concepts and family nursing.

ATCC extends the opportunity for online students to benefit from in-state tuition. Additionally, the college features a practical nursing diploma program consisting of 36 credits.

Programs: Associate degree in nursing and practical nursing diploma
Campus: Alexandria, Minnesota
Type: Public
Accreditation: National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation
Tuition: $176 per credit for on-site tuition; $205 for online tuition
Admission Requirements: Current LPN license
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 88% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $54,536 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $4,963
Out-of-state: $4,963
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: Not provided
Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: 72%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 2,591
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 45%
Accreditation: Yes Higher Learning Commission

5. Ridgewater College

Located in Willmar, MN, Ridgewater College takes pride in its innovative ADN-to-BSN nursing programs designed to elevate the careers of Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and students without prior nursing experience. These programs operate through a dual-enrollment arrangement with Metropolitan State University.

The comprehensive curriculum involves completing 30-35 nursing and 40 general education credits to obtain an associate degree, a hallmark of one of the top-rated nursing schools in Minnesota. For those progressing to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), an additional 30 nursing and 15 general education credits are required.

Coursework encompasses crucial topics such as chronic and palliative care, acute and complete care, professionalism, leadership skills, and clinical reasoning. The college also offers a 40-credit practical nursing diploma.

Programs: Associate degree in nursing, bachelor of science in nursing, and practical nursing diploma
Campus: Willmar, Minnesota
Type: Public
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Tuition: $197 per credit
Admission Requirements: Official transcripts, TEAS scores, and a minimum 2.75 GPA
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90.9% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $54,109 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $5,316
Out-of-state: $5,316
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: Not provided
Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: 68%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 3,255
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 50%
Accreditation: Yes Higher Learning Commission

6. Riverland Community College

Riverland Community College
Situated in Austin, MN, Riverland Community College offers flexible nursing programs in Minnesota, accommodating both evening and daytime formats. Students pursuing an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) have the option to transition to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) through a bridge program at Winona State University.

Full-time nursing students partake in day courses, clinicals, and labs 3-4 days a week, while working students can opt for an evening program. Course content spans pharmacology, family nursing, health

assessments, and acute care. Clinical experiences are conducted at the Albert Lea, Austin, and Owatonna campuses.

In the final semester, students have the option to study abroad, engage in mentorships, or explore complementary therapist courses.

Programs: Associate of science in nursing, practical nursing diploma, and nursing assistant certificate
Campus: Austin, Minnesota
Type: Public
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Tuition: $202 per credit for general education courses; $249 per credit for nursing courses
Admission Requirements: Active CNA registration or current LPN license, prerequisite courses with a minimum 2.75 GPA, and a minimum 58.6% TEAS score
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 83.3% first-time pass rate
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $5,086
Out-of-state: $5,086
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: Not provided
Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: 63%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 3,475
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 45%
Accreditation: Yes Higher Learning Commission

7. Minnesota State University-Mankato

Minnesota State University-Mankato
Based in Mankato, MN, Minnesota State University-Mankato stands out as one of the premier institutions hosting the best nursing schools in Minnesota. With clinical placements in rural areas, Rochester, and the Twin Cities, the university offers two distinct nursing programs.

The online RN-to-BSN program is tailored for current associate degree-holding RNs, while the pre-licensure nursing program caters to degree-seekers without a nursing background.

Over a span of four years, students delve into health assessments, nursing procedures, pathophysiology, pharmacology, and nursing leadership and management. The university also provides the opportunity to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice.

Programs: Bachelor of science in nursing, RN-to-BSN, and doctor of nursing practice
Campus: Mankato, Minnesota
Type: Public
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $355 per credit for online learners; $315 per credit for Mankato campus students
Admission Requirements: 30 college credits with a minimum 3.0 GPA, core prerequisites with a minimum C grade average, and TEAS scores
Minimum Time Commitment: 24-48 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90.1% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $67,079 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $7,394
Out-of-state: $15,686
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: $7,694
Out-of-state: $7,694
Retention Rate: 77%
Admission Rate: 63%
Students Enrolled: 14,325
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 44%
Accreditation: Yes Higher Learning Commission

#8 Minnesota State Community and Technical College

Located in Fergus Falls, MN, M State stands out as a prominent institution offering three distinct nursing programs in Minnesota, catering to both recent high school graduates and experienced nurses.

For current LPNs, the program entails earning an associate degree by completing 32 credits, including 21 prerequisites and 11 prior learning credits. M State provides additional options with a 64-credit associate degree and a 40-credit practical nursing diploma.

The ADN program encompasses vital nursing fundamentals such as medical microbiology, human anatomy and physiology, reproductive health, and lifespan development. Both the ADN and LPN-to-ADN programs incorporate mandatory nursing clinical hours.

Programs: LPN-to-ADN, associate degree in nursing, and practical nursing diploma
Campus: Fergus Falls, Minnesota
Type: Public
Accreditation: National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation
Tuition: $218 per credit
Admission Requirements: ACT/SAT scores, minimum 58.6% TEAS score, minimum 3.0 GPA for ADN applicants and 2.75 GPA for LPN-to-ADN applicants, and American Heart Association Basic Life Support certification
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes

School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 91.3% first-time pass rate

Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $55,026 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $4,965
Out-of-state: $4,965
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: Not provided
Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: 64%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 6,086
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 43%
Accreditation: Yes Higher Learning Commission

#9 Winona State University

Situated in Winona, MN, WSU’s nursing school, established over 50 years ago, offers a flexible RN-to-BSN degree program that can be completed in one year.

Students delve into 30 nursing credits covering research and evidence-based practice, holistic assessments, and population-based healthcare. In addition to coursework, learners accrue 60 clinical hours through WSU’s partner organizations. The program accommodates working RNs, allowing them to graduate in 1-4 years with part-time enrollment or in 12 months with full-time enrollment.

WSU provides a valuable for-credit Biel Leadership Fellowship opportunity worth $1,500 to nursing students.

Programs: Bachelor of science in nursing, RN-to-BSN, two master of science nursing programs, six doctor of nursing practice programs, and several post-graduate certificates
Campus: Winona, Minnesota
Type: Public
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $4,050 per credit for Minnesota residents; $7,301 per credit for non-residents
Admission Requirements: Associate degree in nursing or diploma in nursing for RN-to-BSN applicants, current RN license, and a minimum 2.75 GPA
Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes

School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93.0% first-time pass rate

Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $65,101 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $7,598
Out-of-state: $13,698
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: $7,488
Out-of-state: $11,286
Retention Rate: 77%
Admission Rate: 68%
Students Enrolled: 7,605
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 34%
Accreditation: Yes Higher Learning Commission

#10 Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

Based in Winona, MN, Saint Mary’s University offers an RN-to-BSN program aligned with the institution’s Lasallian principles.

Students engage in cohort-based learning with approximately 40 peers, completing a total of 122 credits. The curriculum encompasses crucial subjects such as nursing research, pharmacology and applied mathematics, nursing ethics, and community health assessment.

Nursing students dedicate 585 clinical hours, with 50% conducted in the simulation lab. The program features rolling admission and three start dates annually. Saint Mary’s also stands out with a doctor of nursing practice program, focusing on nurse anesthesiology.

Programs: Bachelor of science in nursing and doctor of nursing practice
Campus: Winona, Minnesota
Type: Private
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $40,520 per year for undergraduate students; $955 per credit for graduate students
Admission Requirements: An associate in nursing degree, minimum 2.5 GPA, and current RN license
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: No

Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $97,071 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $36,050
Out-of-state: $36,050
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: $9,180
Out-of-state: $9,180
Retention Rate: 84%
Admission Rate: 92%
Students Enrolled: 5,548
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 33%
Accreditation: Yes Higher Learning Commission

How to Choose a Nursing Program in Minnesota

When faced with the decision of selecting from the numerous nursing schools in Minnesota, it’s essential to consider factors such as tuition, NCLEX-RN pass rates, program format and duration, and the availability of clinical placements. This guide specifically includes accredited nursing programs in Minnesota, emphasizing the importance of accreditation in assessing the overall value of a degree.

Why Become a Nurse in Minnesota

Whether you aspire to reside in the bustling Twin Cities area or prefer a quieter, rural setting, Minnesota offers a high quality of life.

While the state doesn’t enforce a specific nurse-to-patient ratio, hospitals are mandated to create core staffing plans. The responsibility lies with the chief nursing officer and other staff to meet these requirements.

The national average salary for registered nurses (RNs) is $75,330, slightly lower than Minnesota’s average of $80,960, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Additionally, with a cost-of-living index of 99.6, Minnesota’s expenses are marginally below the national average of 100.

Minnesota recognizes nursing licenses from neighboring states such as Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. For those without a nursing school attendance in Minnesota and lacking a license from a nearby state, obtaining a license by endorsement is necessary to practice in Minnesota.

Salary and Employment Prospects for Nurses in Minnesota

The average annual salary for registered nurses (RNs) in Minnesota stands at $80,960. Nurse practitioners (NPs) in the state enjoy an even more lucrative average annual salary of $120,860, surpassing the national average of $110,680. Considering the cost-of-living index of 99.6 (slightly higher in larger cities), the earning potential in Minnesota allows for a more comfortable lifestyle compared to higher-paying states.

Statistical projections indicate a potential growth of 12.4% in the number of nursing jobs in Minnesota between 2018 and 2028. Despite this positive outlook, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services forecasts a surplus of 3,100 nurses from 2014 to 2030. Given the current workforce of 70,820 nurses in Minnesota, this surplus is relatively small.

Medium-sized cities such as St. Cloud, Mankato, Rochester, and Duluth, along with the Twin Cities region boasting a population of approximately 3.6 million, offer diverse employment opportunities. Rochester, home to the renowned Mayo Clinic, employs 11,700 nurses, adding prestige to the nursing landscape.

These cities not only provide attractive employment prospects but also offer picturesque settings for year-round outdoor recreation. Minnesota, known for its midwestern friendliness and easy-going lifestyles, ensures a fulfilling living experience.

Highest Paying Cities for Nurses in Minnesota

Highest Paying Cities for Nurses in Minnesota

Top Paying Metropolitan Areas	Median Salary for RNs
St. Cloud	$86,750
Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington	$86,290
Mankato-North Mankato	$84,100
Rochester	$71,870
Duluth	$69,630

Source: BLS

Steps to Pursuing a Nursing Career in Minnesota

Whether pursuing nursing education in Minnesota or another state, the steps to become a registered nurse (RN) remain consistent. The key requirements include earning a nursing degree, successfully passing the NCLEX-RN examination, undergoing a background check, and submitting an application.

RN Requirements

To attain RN status in Minnesota, one must graduate from either an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program. The ADN typically takes two years, while the BSN requires four years. Opting for a BSN not only provides a competitive edge in the job market but also serves as a solid foundation for potential advancement to an MSN program.

Licensure involves applying to the state board of nursing and passing the NCLEX-RN examination. The total fees for obtaining a new RN license amount to $138.25. Nurses from neighboring states need to pay a $50 verification fee.

APRN Requirements

For those aspiring to become advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) in Minnesota, the journey involves earning an MSN or a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) from an accredited program, passing the board certification examination, undergoing a background check, and submitting an application to the state board of nursing. Earning full practice authority as an APRN requires a minimum of 2,080 hours of nursing practice under a collaborative arrangement with a physician.

Other Top Nursing Programs in Minnesota

Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Minnesota

What is the average NCLEX-RN pass rate in Minnesota?

In 2020, the average pass rate for first-time U.S.-educated candidates in Minnesota was 83.8%. ADN graduates had an average pass rate of 80.3%, while BSN graduates averaged 89.2%. Pass rates for individual BSN programs ranged from 62.5% to 100%, and for ADN nursing schools, the range extended from 47.83% to 97.35%. These figures exclude nursing programs in Minnesota that closed during 2020.

What is the recommended degree for nursing students in Minnesota?

Over 50% of nurses in Minnesota hold a BSN degree, with 64% earning a BSN or higher, and 10% holding an MSN or a DNP. The choice of degree depends on individual career goals. When selecting a nursing program in Minnesota, factors such as cost, program duration, the school’s NCLEX-RN pass rate, and cultural fit should be considered.

How long does it take to become a nurse in Minnesota?

Attending nursing school in Minnesota typically requires approximately two years for an ADN program and four years for a BSN. While an ADN degree offers a faster route with lower tuition, a BSN program opens up more career opportunities and facilitates future progression to an MSN.

What financial aid programs are available for Minnesota nursing students?

Various national, state, and local financial aid programs are accessible to nursing students in Minnesota. Some government initiatives provide full scholarships and cover expenses in exchange for service in underserved areas. Individual school websites should be consulted for specific details on financial aid offerings and policies.