Best Nursing Schools in North Dakota

Best RN Programs in North Dakota

North Dakota Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees

If you're considering a career as a registered nurse, North Dakota offers several entry-level degree pathways to help you get started. Many aspiring nurses begin with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Each pathway has its own benefits, so it's important to choose the one that best aligns with your career goals.

Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs

If you're new to nursing and looking for the fastest route into the field, an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is a strong option. Both the ADN and a nursing diploma can typically be completed in one to two years. For those with prior nursing experience, such as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), an LPN to RN bridge program can be an excellent choice, providing a pathway to earn either an ADN or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in North Dakota include:

• High School Diploma or GED
• Minimum GPA, typically 2.5 or higher
• Some programs require scores from the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI Admission Assessment

For further admissions requirements and more information, check out our page on ADN degree programs.

More information on RN diplomas, LPN to RN, and ADN programs:

ADN, LPN to RN, and nursing diploma programs require hands-on clinical training hours under supervision in order to be eligible for RN licensure. These will need to be completed in person, even if you opt for an online or hybrid program. Not sure if you’re ready for an RN career? Consider an LPN or CNA program in North Dakota.

Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs

As you explore nursing programs, you'll find three main bachelor's degree options: the traditional BSN, RN-to-BSN, and accelerated BSN (ABSN). For individuals new to nursing without a previous bachelor's degree, the traditional BSN is the ideal choice. If you already hold a bachelor's degree in another field, the ABSN program allows you to earn a BSN on an accelerated timeline. Meanwhile, the RN-to-BSN pathway is designed for licensed, working nurses who want to complete their BSN more quickly.

Admissions requirements for BSN programs in North Dakota typically include:

• High School Diploma or GED
• Minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0
• Completion of prerequisite courses

For more information on BSN admissions requirements and more, see our BSN degrees page.

Several alternative pathways are also available to qualified students who want to pursue a BSN. Compare your options below:

RN to BSN

As a working nurse, the simplest way to earn a BSN is through a North Dakota RN to BSN. These bridge programs are available to any nurse with an RN license and an ADN, often with a few years of experience. While a traditional BSN program typically takes four years, an RN-to-BSN program can be completed in about two years.

Accelerated BSN (ABSN)

North Dakota ABSN programs are available for students who hold a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field. These programs build on the student's prior education to provide a pathway to a BSN in as little as one to two years.

Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs

Graduate school is a vital step for many nurses looking to advance in their careers. Pursuing options like a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program, a bridge program to enter advanced practice, or even a doctorate degree such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP opens doors to higher earning potential, more independence, and a wider range of career opportunities. Most nursing graduate programs require applicants to hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and have an active RN license.

Earning a graduate-level degree in nursing opens the door to numerous Advanced Practice Registered Nursing (APRN) roles, leadership roles, and even careers in academia or research. Read more about APRN pathways in North Dakota:

• North Dakota Nurse Practitioner Programs
• North Dakota MSN Program
• North Dakota RN to MSN Programs
• North Dakota Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
• North Dakota DNP Programs

Getting an RN License in North Dakota

The final step to becoming a registered nurse in North Dakota is obtaining your nursing license. In North Dakota, RN licensure requires completing an accredited nursing program, passing the NCLEX-RN exam, and submitting an application with the required fee to the North Dakota Board of Nursing. To maintain an active license, you'll also need to fulfill the continuing education requirements set by the board.

Requirements for RN Licensure in North Dakota

• Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
• Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
• Application to the Iowa Board of Nursing
• Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance

Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?

When selecting an RN program, one of the most important factors to consider is RN program accreditation. Accreditation is a formal review that ensures a nursing school or program meets specific quality standards. In the United States, nursing programs are primarily accredited by two organizations: the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). If a program lacks accreditation, graduates may not be eligible for licensure.

Continued List of All RN Programs in North Dakota

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