Top North Dakota Nursing Schools and Programs

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

Discover more about the top-notch nursing schools in North Dakota, highlighting programs that provide optimal choices for current and aspiring nurses.

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.

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Top Nursing Schools and Programs in North Dakota

1. University of Mary

– Location: Bismarck, ND
– Duration: 4 years
– Format: Online

The University of Mary, rooted in Catholic principles, offers nursing programs that confer traditional bachelor’s degrees, as well as online or evening accelerated tracks and bridge programs for licensed nurses. Graduate nursing courses are delivered online and encompass master’s degrees in nurse education, nurse informatics, leadership and management, and dual MBA tracks. Doctorate degrees focus on organizational leadership or family nurse practitioner.

– Programs: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN); Master of Science in Nursing (MSN); Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
– Campus: Bismarck, ND
– Type: Private
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
– Tuition:
– BSN: $9,170 per semester
– Accelerated BSN: $12,665 per semester
– LPN-to-BSN: $605 per credit hour
– RN-to-BSN: $340 per credit hour
– MSN/MBA: $560 per credit hour
– MSN: $460 per credit hour
– DNP: $630-$665 per credit hour
– Admission Requirements: Vary by program and include GPA, TEAS exam scores, RN license, and additional criteria
– Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes for traditional BSN
– NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100% first-time pass rate
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $56,641 for bachelor’s graduates and $94,408 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
– Average Tuition: In-state $17,980, Out-of-state $17,980
– Retention Rate: 78%
– Admission Rate: 72%
– Students Enrolled: 3,799
– Institution Type: Private
– Percent Online Enrollment: 49%
– Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

2. University of North Dakota

– Location: Grand Forks, ND
– Duration: 4 years
– Format: Online + Campus

The University of North Dakota provides on-campus bachelor’s in nursing and online RN-to-BSN programs. Master’s-level students can specialize in family nurse practitioner or psychiatric-mental health. UND doctoral students can pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a nurse anesthesia option. Most graduate programs are offered online, with the exception of the nurse anesthesia track, and students receive support for clinical placement.

– Programs: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN); Master of Science in Nursing (MSN); Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
– Campus: Grand Forks, ND
– Type: Public
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE); Council on Accreditation (COA) of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs
– Tuition:
– BSN: $450-$676 per credit hour
– RN-to-BSN: $464 per credit hour
– MSN/DNP: $816-$1,388 per credit hour
– Admission Requirements: Vary by program and include GPA, ACT/SAT scores, RN license, and additional criteria
– Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes for BSN/DNP-anesthesia
– NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96.6% first-time pass rate
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $61,437 for bachelor’s graduates and $107,376 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
– Average Tuition: In-state $8,540, Out-of-state $12,810
– Retention Rate: 81%
– Admission Rate: 87%
– Students Enrolled: 13,615
– Institution Type: Public
– Percent Online Enrollment: 83%
– Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

#3 University of Jamestown

Jamestown, ND
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus

The University of Jamestown characterizes its bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program by emphasizing bio-psycho-social-spiritual patient care. This program uniquely integrates internships between junior and senior years, providing hands-on experience. Additionally, preceptorships can be completed locally or in Kenya or Malawi, Africa, offering a diverse and global perspective to nursing education.

For registered nurses, the University of Jamestown offers an accelerated BSN program online (RN-to-BSN), providing testing options and 24/7 access to class materials.

Program(s): Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Campus: Jamestown, ND
Type: Private
Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition:
– BSN: $22,718 per year
– RN-to-BSN: $330 per credit hour
Admission Requirements: Completed first semester of sophomore year, 3.2 GPA, completed psychology, sociology, and sciences prerequisites; for direct entry, 3.4 high school GPA, 25 ACT or 1200 SAT; for RN-to-BSN, additional requirement of RN license
Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90.5% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $61,859 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $22,718
Out-of-state: $22,718
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: $10,948
Out-of-state: $10,948
Retention Rate: 73%
Admission Rate: 72%
Students Enrolled: 1,147
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 26%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#4 North Dakota State University-Main Campus

Fargo, ND
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus

Among the top nursing schools in North Dakota, North Dakota State University provides three options for earning a bachelor’s in nursing: a pre-licensure track, a primarily online program for licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and a fully online track for RNs.

NDSU also offers a doctorate program that prepares family nurse practitioners and facilitates clinical placements for hands-on experience.

Program(s): Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN); Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Campus: Fargo, ND
Type: Public
Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition:
– BSN: $5,332 per year for in-state residents; $5,972 per year for Minnesota residents; $7,997 per year for out-of-state students
– Part-time: $439 per credit hour for in-state residents; $491 per credit hour for Minnesota residents; $1,117 per credit hour for out-of-state students
– DNP: $483 per credit hour for in-state residents; $613 per credit hour for Minnesota residents; $724 per credit hour for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements:
– BSN: Pre-nursing prerequisites; college 2.75 GPA
– LPN-to-RN: Completed NLN NACE exams; practical nursing certificate, diploma, or associate degree; 2.75 overall GPA; 3.0 nursing GPA; LPN license
– RN-to-BSN: Associate degree in nursing; 2.75 GPA; RN license
– DNP: BSN with a 3.0 GPA; RN license
Minimum Time Commitment: Five semesters
On-Campus Requirements: Yes, except for RN-to-BSN
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96.6% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $62,397 for bachelor’s graduates and $107,072 for doctoral graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $8,606
Out-of-state: $12,909
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: $7,013
Out-of-state: $10,519
Retention Rate: 82%
Admission Rate: 94%
Students Enrolled: 12,846
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 49%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#5 Lake Region State College

Devils Lake, ND
Duration: 2 years
Format: Online + Campus

Lake Region State College stands out by offering programs that prepare certified nurse aides, paramedics-to-nurses, practical nurses, and registered nurses (RNs). LRSC’s emphasis is on helping graduates successfully pass their licensure exams.

Paramedics and licensed practical nurses (LPN) can earn associate degrees to become RNs. The coursework and clinical training encompass adult, maternal-child, psychosocial nursing, and community health.

Program(s): Practical Nursing (PN); Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
Campus: Devils Lake, ND
Type: Public
Accreditation(s): Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Tuition: $170 per credit hour
Admission Requirements:
– PN: High school diploma or GED certificate; 2.5 GPA; TEAS exam scores
– ADN: LPN or paramedic program completion and license; 2.75 GPA; TEAS exam score
Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 84.4% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $56,776 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $3,929
Out-of-state: $3,929
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: Not provided
Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: 64%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 1,771
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 65%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#6 North Dakota State College of Science

Wahpeton, ND
Duration: 2 years
Format: Online + Campus

North Dakota State College of Science provides three degree options for aspiring nurses: practical nursing associate of applied science (AAS), registered nursing AAS, and registered nursing associate of science in nursing (ASN) available to licensed practical nurses (LPN-to-RN).

NDSCS graduates are well-prepared for licensure, employment, or further education, including transfer options to bachelor’s or graduate nursing programs in North Dakota.

Program(s): Practical Nursing (PN); Registered Nursing (RN)
Campus: Wahpeton, ND
Type: Public
Accreditation(s): Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Tuition: $150 per credit hour for in-state residents; $168 per credit hour for Minnesota residents; $180 per credit hour for out-of-state + Manitoba and Saskatchewan, Canada, students
Admission Requirements:
– PN AAS: High school diploma or GED certificate; 2.0 GPA; ACT scores
– RN AAS: High school diploma or GED certificate; 2.25 GPA; ACT scores; certified nursing assistant certificate
– RN ASN: LPN program completion and license; 2.25 GPA; ACT scores
Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $58,673 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $4,919
Out-of-state: $5,542
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: Not provided
Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: 67%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 2,829
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 32%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#7 Williston State College

Williston, ND
Duration: 2 years
Format: Online + Campus

Nursing students at Williston State College can pursue either a one-year program certificate or a two-year associate of applied science (AAS). The program certificate qualifies graduates to become licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and continuing for another year earns them their AAS, allowing qualification for registered nurse licensure. WSC offers some courses online to enhance flexibility.

Program(s): Practical Nursing (PN); Registered Nursing (RN)
Campus: Williston, ND
Type: Public
Accreditation(s): National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (CNEA) – pre-accreditation status
Tuition: $193 per credit hour
Admission Requirements:
– PN: 2.5 high school GPA; 19 ACT; TEAS exam score; prerequisites with a 2.75 GPA
– RN: PN program completion; LPN license; 2.75 GPA
Minimum Time Commitment: 11 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $56,415 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $3,900
Out-of-state: $3,900
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: Not provided
Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: 55%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 959
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 67%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#8 Dickinson State University

Dickinson, ND
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus

Dickinson State University offers a nursing bachelor’s RN completion program and an associate degree in practical nursing. Students attend classes on campus and complete clinical experiences both on and off campus.

DSU’s bachelor’s in nursing core courses include health assessment, clinical concepts, and community health. The practical nursing curriculum covers nursing concepts, psychiatric-mental health nursing, and pharmacology.

Program(s): Associate of Applied Science in Practical Nursing (AASPN); Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Campus: Dickinson, ND
Type: Public
Accreditation(s): Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing

9 Bismarck State College

Location: Bismarck, ND
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus

Bismarck State College emphasizes career-focused programs, offering preparation tracks for practical nurses (PN) and associate-level registered nurses (RNs). Students have the opportunity to obtain PN certificates and subsequently progress to RN training.

BSC provides most courses both on campus and through live interactive video online. Clinical rotations are conducted at local healthcare organizations.

Program(s): Practical nurse certificate to associate degree in nursing (ADN)
Campus: Bismarck, ND
Type: Public
Accreditation(s): Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Tuition: $235 per credit hour for in-state residents; $263 per credit hour for Minnesota residents; $352 per credit hour for out-of-state + Manitoba and Saskatchewan, Canada, students
Admission Requirements:
– PN: high school diploma or GED certificate; 2.5 GPA; age 18 at the start of the program; CPR certification; math prerequisites or placement testing; general academic readiness testing, e.g. TEAS, ACT/SAT, Accuplacer
– ADN: PN or paramedic-to-nurse program completion; 2.75 GPA in major courses; 2.5 overall GPA; admission exam
Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $55,964 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $3,853
– Out-of-state: $5,779
Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: Not provided
– Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: Not provided
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 3,716
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 66% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation: Yes Higher Learning Commission

10 Sitting Bull College

Location: Fort Yates, ND
Duration: 4 years
Format: Campus

Sitting Bull College presents nursing programs on North Dakota’s Standing Rock Reservation. Students can pursue an associate degree in practical nursing with a focus on responsible, holistic healthcare.

Key courses encompass introduction to the nursing profession, holistic health assessment across the lifespan, fundamental nursing interventions, and a capstone experience.

Program(s): Associate of science in practical nursing
Campus: Fort Yates, ND
Type: Tribal
Accreditation(s): Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Tuition: $1,800 per semester
Admission Requirements: Prerequisites with a “C” or higher; 2.3 cumulative GPA; background check
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $3,600
– Out-of-state: $3,600
Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $6,300
– Out-of-state: $6,300
Retention Rate: Not provided
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 229
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 34% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation: Yes Higher Learning Commission

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.

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.