The rural landscape of North Dakota is known for its beauty and peacefulness. However, while North Dakota’s picturesque countryside attracts many visitors each year, it also faces a shortage of certain amenities and resources. This, combined with the state’s aging population, makes it challenging to find adequate healthcare options. Recent surveys predict a 3% decrease in the nursing workforce in North Dakota. While this poses a concern for local residents, it also presents an opportunity for those considering a career in nursing. With numerous nursing programs available, along with online and bridge program options, it’s easier than ever to embark on this rewarding career path.

2026 Best Nursing Schools in North Dakota

Choosing the right nursing school is crucial, and Registerednursing.org provides essential rankings to help prospective students make informed decisions. Our comprehensive guide to the Best Nursing Schools in North Dakota focuses primarily on NCLEX pass rates, which serve as the key indicator of program quality. By analyzing recent data, we highlight top-performing nursing programs that demonstrate consistent success in preparing students for their licensing exams. https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/

Top Performing Nursing Schools

The analysis reveals several nursing programs with exceptional performance across multiple years. High pass rates indicate strong educational preparation and student readiness for professional nursing practice.
  • Dickinson State University: 100% pass rate
  • University of Mary: 98.9% pass rate
  • Dakota College at Bottineau: 98.53% pass rate

BSN vs ADN Program Performance

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs demonstrate slightly stronger performance compared to Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs. This suggests potential advantages in comprehensive educational approaches.
  • BSN Average Pass Rate: 96.94%
  • BSN Total Students: 621
  • ADN Average Pass Rate: 93.56%
  • ADN Total Students: 388

Geographic Performance Trends

Different cities in North Dakota show varying nursing program performance, with some metropolitan areas demonstrating higher pass rates than others.
  • Bismarck: 97.42% average pass rate
  • Bottineau: 98.53% average pass rate
  • Fargo: 93.95% average pass rate

Program Size Impact on Performance

Nursing program size appears to correlate with pass rate performance, with medium-sized programs showing particularly strong outcomes.
  • Small Programs (<50 students): 96.53% pass rate
  • Medium Programs (50-100 students): 98.53% pass rate
  • Large Programs (>100 students): 94.5% pass rate

Yearly Performance Trends

Recent years demonstrate consistent and high nursing program performance across North Dakota.
  • 2024 Average Pass Rate: 96.94%
  • 2024 Total Students: 621
  • 2023 Average Pass Rate: 92.59%
  • 2023 Total Students: 567
#1

Dickinson State University

Dickinson, ND - Public 4-Year - dickinsonstate.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Dickinson State University's BSN program stands out with its exceptional 100% NCLEX pass rate, demonstrating remarkable student success in nursing education. The program provides a robust curriculum designed to prepare future nurses through advanced simulation labs and comprehensive clinical training. Students benefit from hands-on learning experiences that mirror real-world healthcare environments. Prospective students must meet specific admission criteria, and the program is ACEN accredited, ensuring high-quality educational standards. The BSN pathway leads directly to NCLEX-RN exam eligibility, positioning graduates for immediate professional nursing opportunities. While entrance exam requirements are not explicitly detailed, the program's strong performance and supportive learning environment make it an attractive option for aspiring registered nurses in North Dakota.

  • ACEN accredited program.
  • State-of-the-art simulation labs.
  • Eligibility for NCLEX-RN exam.
  • Comprehensive hands-on training.
  • Supportive learning environment.
#2

University of Mary

Bismarck, ND - Private 4-year - umary.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Mary's BSN program stands out with its exceptional 98.53-100% NCLEX pass rate, showcasing a robust nursing education. Located in Bismarck, this Roman Catholic and military-friendly institution offers comprehensive nursing preparation with flexible pathways including LPN to BSN and RN to BSN options. Students benefit from hands-on clinical experiences, critical thinking development, and communication skill enhancement. The program is fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and provides unique financial advantages like a tuition-free senior year. Prospective students should note that traditional entrance exams like SAT/ACT are typically required for admission. With small class sizes and a commitment to holistic healthcare education, graduates are well-prepared for diverse nursing career opportunities.

  • Accredited by CCNE.
  • High NCLEX-RN pass rates.
  • Flexible degree pathways.
  • Hands-on experience in healthcare settings.
  • Financial support available.
  • LPN to BSN option.
  • RN to BSN option.
  • Tuition-free senior year.
  • Critical thinking focus.
  • Communication skills development.
#3

Dakota College at Bottineau

Bottineau, ND - Public 2-Year - dakotacollege.edu

Associate - Associate Degree Nurse

Campus Based - Visit Website

Dakota College at Bottineau's Associate Degree Nurse program offers exceptional nursing education with an outstanding 97.62% NCLEX pass rate. Students benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that prepares them for diverse healthcare environments, emphasizing clinical skills and professional development. The program requires a competitive 2.75 GPA in prerequisite courses and mandates a background check, ensuring high-quality candidate selection. With strong clinical applications and coursework in psychology, anatomy, and pharmacology, graduates are thoroughly equipped to excel in acute care, long-term care facilities, and community healthcare agencies. Clinical training provides hands-on experience across various healthcare settings, creating well-rounded nursing professionals ready for immediate professional practice.

  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
  • Requires 2.75 GPA.
  • Background check mandatory.
  • Covers diverse healthcare settings.
  • Includes clinical applications.
#4

Lake Region State College

Devils Lake, ND - Public 2-Year - lrsc.edu

Associate - Associate Degree Nurse (RN)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Lake Region State College's Associate Degree Nurse (RN) program provides a dynamic hybrid learning experience preparing nursing students for comprehensive healthcare roles. With an impressive 96.43% NCLEX pass rate in 2023 involving 28 students, this program strategically blends online coursework with hands-on clinical training. The curriculum emphasizes diverse nursing domains including adult health, maternal child nursing, community health, and psychosocial nursing. Students must possess CPR certification and either LPN or paramedic experience as prerequisite qualifications. The program's comprehensive approach ensures graduates are thoroughly prepared for professional nursing practice, with robust clinical application courses and professional development training. Clinical practice opportunities and health promotion topics are integral components of this transformative educational pathway.

  • Hybrid program format.
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
  • CPR certification required.
  • LPN or paramedic experience needed.
  • Courses in microbiology included.
  • Clinical practice opportunities.
  • Covers adult health nursing.
  • Includes maternal child nursing.
  • Focus on community health.
  • Psychosocial nursing covered.
#5

Bismarck State College

Bismarck, ND - Public 4-Year - bismarckstate.edu

Associate - Associate Degree Nursing Program

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Bismarck State College's Associate Degree Nursing Program stands out as a strategic hybrid pathway for nursing students, featuring a collaborative 1+1 model through the Dakota Nursing Program. With an impressive NCLEX pass rate of 95% and serving 40 students in 2023, the program offers a robust curriculum preparing graduates for diverse healthcare environments. Students transition from Practical Nurse Certificate to RN, benefiting from a comprehensive science-focused approach. The program requires a minimum 2.5 GPA, mandatory CPR certification, and conducts background checks post-acceptance. Clinical opportunities are locally arranged, providing practical real-world nursing experience across multiple North Dakota sites. International students must demonstrate English proficiency.

  • Hybrid program format.
  • Part of Dakota Nursing Program.
  • Prepares for RN licensure.
  • Strong science background recommended.
  • Minimum GPA requirement 2.5.
  • Clinical opportunities locally arranged.
  • Offered at multiple ND sites.
  • Requires CPR certification.
  • English proficiency test for non-natives.
  • Background check required post-acceptance.
*Citation: National Center for Education Statistics. (2023). IPEDS Data Center. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

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:

ProgramEstimated TuitionEstimated CreditsOnline Availability
ADN$6,000 – $15,00060-72 creditsLimited online courses, primarily on-campus
LPN to RN$4,000 – $10,00030-45 creditsOften hybrid; some online courses
RN Diploma$5,000 – $12,00040-60 creditsRarely online; primarily on-campus

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:

ProgramLengthEstimated TuitionEntrance Level
Traditional BSN4 years (120-126 credits)$20,000 – $50,000First-time college students
RN to BSN1-2 years (30-35 credits)$10,000 – $20,000Licensed RNs with an ADN
ABSN12-18 months (50-60 credits)$25,000 – $40,000Non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders

RN to BSN

For RN bridge programs visit:

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:

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.

Cities With Nursing Programs in North Dakota

List of Nursing Schools in North Dakota

North Dakota offers several quality nursing education programs across its universities and colleges. These schools provide diverse nursing pathways, from associate degrees to advanced practice nursing programs. Students can find opportunities in both urban and rural settings, with schools located in cities like Fargo, Grand Forks, and Bismarck. Whether you're seeking an entry-level RN program or looking to advance your nursing career, North Dakota's nursing schools offer comprehensive training to prepare healthcare professionals for successful careers.
Jump to City:

Bismarck, ND

Bismarck State College

  • Associate - Associate Degree Nursing Program

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format.
    • Part of Dakota Nursing Program.
    • Prepares for RN licensure.
    • Strong science background recommended.
    • Minimum GPA requirement 2.5.
    • Clinical opportunities locally arranged.
    • Offered at multiple ND sites.
    • Requires CPR certification.

University of Mary

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Accredited by CCNE.
    • High NCLEX-RN pass rates.
    • Flexible degree pathways.
    • Hands-on experience in healthcare settings.
    • Financial support available.
    • LPN to BSN option.
    • RN to BSN option.
    • Tuition-free senior year.

Bottineau, ND

Dakota College at Bottineau

  • Associate - Associate Degree Nurse

    Campus Based - Website

    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
    • Requires 2.75 GPA.
    • Background check mandatory.
    • Covers diverse healthcare settings.
    • Includes clinical applications.

Devils Lake, ND

Lake Region State College

  • Associate - Associate Degree Nurse (RN)

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
    • CPR certification required.
    • LPN or paramedic experience needed.
    • Courses in microbiology included.
    • Clinical practice opportunities.
    • Covers adult health nursing.
    • Includes maternal child nursing.

Dickinson, ND

Dickinson State University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • ACEN accredited program.
    • State-of-the-art simulation labs.
    • Eligibility for NCLEX-RN exam.
    • Comprehensive hands-on training.
    • Supportive learning environment.

Fargo, ND

North Dakota State University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Prepares for diverse nursing careers
    • Focus on underserved populations
    • Includes pre-nursing advising
    • Offers scholarships
    • Active student organizations
    • Selective admission process
    • Emphasizes critical thinking
    • Supports professional development

Rasmussen University-North Dakota

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CCNE-accredited program
    • Hybrid learning format
    • Small class sizes
    • No prerequisite courses
    • Eight start dates yearly
    • Standard and accelerated tracks
    • Hands-on clinical experiences
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam

Grand Forks, ND

University of North Dakota

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 4-year program duration.
    • On-campus format.
    • 121 credit hours required.
    • Exceeds national NCLEX pass rates.
    • Focus on diverse populations.
    • Emphasis on rural communities.
    • State-of-the-art learning technology.
    • Rich clinical experiences.

Jamestown, ND

University of Jamestown

  • Associate - Associate of Science in Nursing

    Online Learning - Website

    • Hybrid online and in-person learning.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
    • 20-month program duration.
    • 70 credit hours total.
    • $560 per credit hour.
    • High school diploma required.
    • 2.5 GPA admission requirement.
    • Flexible coursework online.
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • State-of-the-art simulation lab
    • Small class sizes
    • 99% employment rate
    • Direct and sophomore entry options
    • ACLS and PALS certifications
    • Comprehensive curriculum
    • Hands-on clinical experiences
    • Personalized faculty support

Minot, ND

Minot State University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 122 credit hours.
    • 4 years to complete.
    • On-campus program.
    • Over 1,000 clinical hours.
    • High-fidelity simulation experiences.
    • No out-of-state tuition increase.
    • Multiple scholarships available.
    • Guaranteed admission criteria.

Williston, ND

Williston State College

  • Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format.
    • Accredited by NLN CNEA.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN.
    • Combines online and clinical learning.
    • Requires high school diploma.
    • CPR certification needed.
    • Prerequisite courses required.
    • Financial aid available.
*Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) 2023, National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. Department of Education.

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