Top North Dakota Nursing Schools and Programs

The persistent shortage of healthcare professionals continues to impact the healthcare landscape, creating an escalating demand for nurses.
North Dakota, with its projected growth in Registered Nurse (RN) positions from 2020 to 2030, stands out as an appealing state for those considering a nursing career.
Additionally, North Dakota’s nursing programs boast an above-average pass rate on the NCLEX exam.
Delve into an overview of top nursing programs in North Dakota, covering the process of earning a degree, obtaining licensure, and entering the workforce.
This comprehensive guide offers insights into the journey of becoming a nurse in North Dakota, encompassing salary data, job prospects, and a detailed examination of the best nursing programs in the state.

The Best Nursing Schools in North Dakota

1. University of North Dakota (UND)

• Location: Grand Forks, ND
• Website: https://und.edu/academics/nursing
• Description: The University of North Dakota (UND) is one of the state’s premier institutions for nursing education, offering a comprehensive Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that prepares students for successful careers as registered nurses. UND’s nursing program emphasizes critical thinking, leadership, and patient care, integrating classroom instruction with clinical experiences in a variety of healthcare settings. The program offers both traditional and accelerated BSN pathways, as well as an RN-to-BSN option for registered nurses who wish to further their education. UND is known for its commitment to rural health, and its nursing program emphasizes culturally competent care for underserved communities. Graduate students can pursue a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with specializations in family nurse practitioner, nurse educator, and nurse leadership. The university is dedicated to producing highly skilled, compassionate nurses prepared for leadership roles in healthcare.
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Tuition: Approx. $10,000 per year (in-state undergrad)
• Programs: BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN
• Online Options: RN-to-BSN, MSN

2. North Dakota State University (NDSU)

• Location: Fargo, ND
• Website: https://www.ndsu.edu/nursing
• Description: North Dakota State University offers a robust nursing program with a strong emphasis on nursing practice, research, and leadership. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at NDSU combines rigorous academic coursework with clinical training, preparing students to become highly competent registered nurses. NDSU offers both a traditional BSN program and an RN-to-BSN program designed for licensed nurses who wish to complete their bachelor’s degree. Graduate-level students can pursue a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a focus on family nurse practitioner or leadership. NDSU’s nursing program is dedicated to advancing healthcare in rural communities and provides opportunities for students to engage in community health initiatives, making it an ideal choice for those interested in rural healthcare settings. The program is also noted for its strong faculty support and student-centered learning environment.
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Tuition: Approx. $10,500 per year (in-state undergrad)
• Programs: BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN
• Online Options: RN-to-BSN, MSN

3. Minot State University (MSU)

• Location: Minot, ND
• Website: https://www.minotstateu.edu/nursing
• Description: Minot State University offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program designed to prepare students for successful careers in healthcare. The program combines classroom learning with hands-on clinical experience in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. The RN-to-BSN program at MSU is tailored for registered nurses who want to advance their education while maintaining their professional roles. Minot State University’s nursing program emphasizes developing strong clinical skills, leadership abilities, and a deep understanding of nursing theory. The faculty is committed to providing students with personalized support, ensuring that each nurse develops the skills needed to succeed in the dynamic healthcare field. MSU is known for its affordable tuition and small class sizes, making it a great choice for students seeking an intimate, supportive learning environment.
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Tuition: Approx. $8,000 per year (in-state undergrad)
• Programs: BSN, RN-to-BSN
• Online Options: RN-to-BSN

4. Jamestown University

• Location: Jamestown, ND
• Website: https://www.jamestown.edu/academics/nursing
• Description: Jamestown University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that provides students with the essential skills to become registered nurses. The program focuses on both theoretical and clinical aspects of nursing, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education. The nursing program emphasizes leadership, patient care, and community health, with a strong focus on serving rural and underserved populations. Jamestown University’s small class sizes and personalized attention make it a great choice for students who want a more intimate and supportive learning environment. The program includes clinical rotations at local healthcare facilities, ensuring that students gain valuable hands-on experience. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam and are in high demand in healthcare systems across the state and nation.
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Tuition: Approx. $19,000 per year
• Programs: BSN
• Online Options: None

5. Dakota Nursing Program (DNP)

• Location: Bismarck, ND
• Website: https://www.dakotanursing.org
• Description: The Dakota Nursing Program (DNP) is a collaborative program offered by several community colleges in North Dakota, providing an affordable pathway for students to obtain an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). The program is designed to prepare students for entry-level nursing roles and to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam. The DNP is especially beneficial for students seeking a more affordable, flexible path to becoming a registered nurse, with campuses located in Bismarck, Fargo, and other cities. The program offers hands-on clinical training and a solid foundation in nursing theory. The DNP also has strong ties to local healthcare providers, ensuring that students have access to quality clinical placements. While primarily focused on ADN students, DNP has pathways for students who wish to pursue a BSN later through partnerships with universities like Minot State University and North Dakota State University.
• Accreditation: ACEN
• Tuition: Approx. $5,000 per year (in-state)
• Programs: ADN
• Online Options: Limited

6. Northwest Technical College

• Location: Williston, ND
• Website: https://www.ntc.edu
• Description: Northwest Technical College offers a strong Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program that prepares students to become registered nurses. The program combines theoretical instruction with clinical training in various healthcare settings, allowing students to gain the experience necessary to pass the NCLEX-RN exam. This program is ideal for students looking for a career as an RN in North Dakota, especially in rural healthcare settings. Northwest Technical College is committed to providing personalized education and a supportive learning environment. The nursing program offers small class sizes and dedicated faculty who work closely with students to ensure their success. Graduates of the ADN program can pursue additional education to obtain a BSN through partnerships with other North Dakota universities.
• Accreditation: ACEN
• Tuition: Approx. $6,500 per year (in-state)
• Programs: ADN
• Online Options: None

7. Lake Region State College

• Location: Devils Lake, ND
• Website: https://www.lrsc.edu

Description: Lake Region State College offers an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS) program designed to prepare students for a career as a registered nurse. The program is accredited and focuses on providing students with the skills they need to become successful healthcare professionals. The nursing program combines classroom instruction with hands-on clinical practice, ensuring students receive comprehensive training in both theory and patient care. With a strong focus on rural healthcare, Lake Region State College prepares students to address the unique challenges of providing care in rural and underserved areas. Students who complete the AAS program are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and can continue their education by completing an RN-to-BSN program at other North Dakota universities.

• Accreditation: ACEN
• Tuition: Approx. $5,500 per year (in-state)
• Programs: AAS in Nursing
• Online Options: None

8. Williston State College

• Location: Williston, ND
• Website: https://www.wsc.nodak.edu
• Description: Williston State College offers an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS) program designed to prepare students for entry-level nursing roles. The program emphasizes practical nursing skills, clinical experiences, and theoretical knowledge necessary to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and become licensed nurses. Williston State’s program is particularly beneficial for students interested in serving rural and frontier populations, with strong community ties and clinical placements in local healthcare facilities. Williston State College provides a close-knit learning environment, ensuring that students receive ample attention and support from faculty. Upon completion of the AAS program, graduates can seek employment as registered nurses and pursue further education through RN-to-BSN programs.
• Accreditation: ACEN
• Tuition: Approx. $4,500 per year (in-state)
• Programs: AAS in Nursing
• Online Options: None

9. The University of Jamestown

• Location: Jamestown, ND
• Website: https://www.uj.edu
• Description: The University of Jamestown offers a comprehensive nursing program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam and a career in nursing. The program provides a strong foundation in nursing theory, clinical practice, and leadership, preparing graduates to deliver quality care in a variety of healthcare settings. The University of Jamestown emphasizes small class sizes, individualized attention from faculty, and a collaborative learning environment. Students participate in clinical rotations that allow them to gain hands-on experience in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Graduates of the program are highly sought after by healthcare employers in North Dakota and across the region.
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Tuition: Approx. $18,000 per year
• Programs: BSN
• Online Options: None

10. Bismarck State College

• Location: Bismarck, ND
• Website: https://www.bismarckstate.edu
• Description: Bismarck State College offers a practical Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS) program that provides the knowledge and skills necessary to become a registered nurse. The program is designed for students who want to enter the nursing field quickly while receiving high-quality training. Students gain experience through clinical placements in local healthcare facilities, ensuring they are prepared for the challenges of nursing practice. The nursing faculty at Bismarck State College is dedicated to supporting student success, and the program is particularly beneficial for those who want to work in North Dakota’s rural healthcare system. After completing the AAS program, students can pursue RN-to-BSN programs to further their education.
• Accreditation: ACEN
• Tuition: Approx. $6,000 per year (in-state)
• Programs: AAS in Nursing
• Online Options: None

Top North Dakota Nursing Schools and Programs

Discover more about the top-notch nursing schools in North Dakota, highlighting programs that provide optimal choices for current and aspiring nurses. It’s important to ensure that the schools are accredited nursing schools in North Dakota, as accreditation is a key factor in quality education and eligibility for nursing licensure.

Our Approach: We employ a data-driven methodology to rank the best nursing schools in North Dakota, streamlining the process of finding a program that suits your needs. Our methodology centers on key metrics that we consider crucial for students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. Utilizing publicly available provisional datasets from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), we present current data as of the publication date of this article. Program-specific details may vary.

NCLEX Pass Rates and Nursing Licensure in North Dakota

One of the key factors when selecting a nursing school is its NCLEX pass rates. In North Dakota, nursing programs consistently show above-average pass rates, which is a good indicator of program quality. This high success rate helps ensure a smooth transition from graduation to nursing licensure.

NCLEX statistics North Dakota demonstrate the strength of the state’s programs. Passing the NCLEX exam is a significant milestone for all nurses, and understanding pass rates can help you determine the quality of the nursing schools in North Dakota you may be considering.

Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in North Dakota

While nurses in North Dakota earn slightly below-average wages compared to other states, the state’s lower cost of living, at 96.7% of the national average, balances the equation, as reported by the Economic Research and Information Center. In May 2021, registered nurses (RNs) earned an average annual salary of $71,200, and nurse practitioners earned $112,720.

Despite the modest salaries, the job outlook for nurses in North Dakota is promising. Registered nurses are projected to experience a 16.5% increase in job opportunities from 2020 to 2030, while nurse practitioners can anticipate an impressive 31.4% job growth during the same period. Nursing job growth North Dakota is expected to remain strong due to the growing demand for healthcare professionals.

Nurse Practitioner Salary North Dakota

Nurse practitioners in North Dakota enjoy a competitive salary, with an average annual income of $112,720. This figure is well above the average for other professions in the state, making it a lucrative option for those pursuing advanced practice nursing programs North Dakota.

Highest-Paying Cities for Nurses in North Dakota

The highest salaries for nurses in North Dakota are found in the Bismarck and Fargo metropolitan areas. Both cities, situated toward the southern border of the state, offer median salaries that exceed the national average for registered nurses.

Top Paying Metropolitan Areas and Salary Breakdown

• Fargo: $72,650
• Bismarck: $70,740

Nursing Degree Options in North Dakota: RN vs APRN

North Dakota offers various nursing degree programs that cater to different career paths, whether you’re interested in becoming a Registered Nurse (RN) or pursuing a more advanced career as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN).

Differences Between RN and APRN Programs in North Dakota

RN programs are typically completed in two years for an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or four years for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). In contrast, becoming an APRN requires additional education, including a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), as well as certification in a specialty.

How to Choose a Nursing Program in North Dakota

Selecting a nursing program can be a time-consuming endeavor. Prospective students need to take various factors into account based on their academic and professional aspirations. To simplify the decision-making process, individuals should concentrate their research on aspects such as tuition, program duration, and the availability of financial aid.

Additionally, learners should ensure that the programs under consideration effectively prepare their students. This can be verified by confirming that an institution holds accreditation and reviewing its average NCLEX scores and graduation rates. These metrics serve as indicators of program quality.

Tips for Selecting the Right Nursing School for Your Career Goals

When considering nursing education North Dakota, focus on aspects like program accreditation, available specializations, and the potential for job opportunities post-graduation. Don’t forget to consider the availability of online nursing programs North Dakota if flexibility is important to you.

Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) and What It Means for North Dakota Nurses

North Dakota is a participant in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This agreement, involving 37 other states, establishes a set of rules and procedures that all licensed RNs must adhere to. The NLC streamlines the process for nurses to qualify for state licensure with minimal paperwork. Nurses holding an NLC license are exempt from license renewal fees and can provide telehealth care across state lines.

Benefits of the NLC for North Dakota Nurses

The NLC benefits North Dakota nurses by making it easier for them to practice in other participating states without needing additional licenses. This also allows nurses more job opportunities and flexibility, especially in nursing jobs Fargo/Bismarck North Dakota.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in North Dakota

How Long Does It Take to Become a Nurse in North Dakota?

The time it takes to become an RN in North Dakota depends on the chosen educational path. Full-time students enrolled in ADN programs can graduate within two years, while those attending BSN programs typically take four years to complete their degree.

What Is the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)?

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) allows nurses licensed in one compact state to practice in other compact states without needing additional licenses. North Dakota is a participant in the NLC, simplifying the process for nurses to practice across state lines.

How Much Do Nurses Make in North Dakota?

Nurses in North Dakota earn below-average salaries compared to national data. Registered nurses in the state earned an average annual salary of $71,200 as of May 2021. Nurse practitioners made $112,720 on average.

Why Become a Nurse in North Dakota

Embarking on a nursing career in North Dakota offers numerous advantages. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates above-average growth for nursing positions in North Dakota from 2020 to 2030. Coupled with the state’s commendable NCLEX-RN pass rate of 91.6%, North Dakota stands out as an excellent location for aspiring nurses.

North Dakota is also a participant in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This agreement, involving 37 other states, establishes a set of rules and procedures that all licensed RNs must adhere to. The NLC streamlines the process for nurses to qualify for state licensure with minimal paperwork. Nurses holding an NLC license are exempt from license renewal fees and can provide telehealth care across state lines.

Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in North Dakota

While nurses in North Dakota earn slightly below-average wages compared to other states, the state’s lower cost of living, at 96.7% of the national average, balances the equation, as reported by the Economic Research and Information Center. In May 2021, registered nurses (RNs) earned an average annual salary of $71,200, and nurse practitioners earned $112,720.

Despite the modest salaries, the job outlook for nurses in North Dakota is promising. Registered nurses are projected to experience a 16.5% increase in job opportunities from 2020 to 2030, while nurse practitioners can anticipate an impressive 31.4% job growth during the same period. North Dakota’s cost of living falls slightly below average (96.7% of the national average), according to theEconomic Research and Information Center.

Highest-Paying Cities for Nurses in North Dakota

The highest salaries for nurses in North Dakota are found in the Bismarck and Fargo metropolitan areas. Both cities, situated toward the southern border of the state, offer median salaries that exceed the national average for registered nurses.

Top-Paying Cities

Top Paying Metropolitan Areas	Median Salary for RNs
Fargo	$72,650
Bismarck	$70,740

Source: BLS, 2021

Steps to Becoming a Nurse in North Dakota

The process of becoming a registered nurse (RN) or advanced practice RN (APRN) in North Dakota aligns with the requirements in most other states. Prospective nurses must first complete a nursing program approved by the North Dakota Board of Nursing.

After meeting academic requirements, undergraduate students must pass the NCLEX-RN exam, while graduate students must obtain certification in their chosen specialty through a nationally recognized organization. Both RNs and APRNs must fulfill continuing education requirements to maintain licensure in North Dakota.

RN Requirements

To become an RN in North Dakota, aspiring nurses must graduate from an accredited nursing program recognized by the state board of nursing. Graduates can earn either an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN).

Upon completing their undergraduate program, graduates must pass the NCLEX-RN exam and submit a licensure application to the state, which includes a $130 licensing fee. RNs in North Dakota renew their licenses every two years, necessitating completion of 12 contact hours within the licensing period and accrual of 400 practice hours within the last four years.

APRN Requirements

To attain APRN status in North Dakota, nurses must hold an unencumbered RN license allowing practice in the state. Additionally, they must earn a master of science in nursing or a doctorate of nursing practice and achieve specialty certification through a national nursing certifying body.

The APRN licensure application includes a $100 initial licensure fee and a $20 processing fee for applicants with a negative response to the criminal history check question. Renewal for both RN and certification licenses is required every two years, with APRNs needing to complete 12 contact hours and 400 practice hours within the last four years. APRNs with prescriptive authority must also fulfill 15 hours of pharmacotherapy education biennially.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in North Dakota

How much do nurses make in North Dakota?

Nurses in North Dakota earn below-average salaries compared to national data. Registered nurses in the state earned an average annual salary of $71,200 as of May 2021. Nurse practitioners made $112,720 on average.

Are nurses in demand in North Dakota?

Yes, North Dakota projects an increased demand for nurses from 2020-2030. For example, registered nurses in North Dakota can expect a 16.5% increase in jobs during that time frame. Nurse practitioners should see a 31.4% job growth.

How long does it take to become an RN in North Dakota?

How long it takes to become an RN in North Dakota depends on your education and professional goals. Full-time students enrolled in ADN programs can graduate within two years. Those attending BSN programs on a full-time basis can finish in four years.

How do I get a nursing license in North Dakota?

After earning an ADN or a BSN in North Dakota, prospective nurses must pass the NCLEX-RN exam before applying to the state for licensure. Applicants pay a licensing fee before obtaining RN licensure. RNs must renew their licenses every two years.