2026 Best Nursing Schools in Minneapolis

Choosing the right nursing program is crucial for future success, and rankings provide valuable guidance by highlighting schools with proven outcomes. This article explores the best nursing schools in Minneapolis, with rankings created by Registerednursing.org based solely on NCLEX pass rates. For detailed methodology, visit https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/.

Yearly Pass Rate Trends

NCLEX pass rates in Minneapolis have shown consistent improvement from 2022 to 2024.

  • 2022: Average pass rate 68.52% with 1,512 students
  • 2023: Average pass rate 79.68% with 1,201 students
  • 2024: Average pass rate 86.97% with 936 students

Top Performing Schools

These Minneapolis nursing schools demonstrate the highest average NCLEX pass rates across multiple years.

  • Bethel University: 93.78% pass rate with 241 students over 3 years
  • University of Northwestern-St Paul: 93.55% pass rate with 155 students over 3 years
  • University of St Thomas: 91.67% pass rate with 36 students in 1 year

BSN vs ADN Pass Rate Comparison

Program type analysis reveals differences in NCLEX performance across degree levels.

  • BSN programs: 90.83% pass rate with 447 students
  • MSN programs: 90.76% pass rate with 119 students
  • ADN programs: 80.82% pass rate with 219 students

Consistently High Performing Schools

These institutions maintain exceptional pass rates across multiple reporting periods.

  • Bethel University: 93.78% pass rate over 3 years with 241 students
  • University of Northwestern-St Paul: 93.55% pass rate over 3 years with 155 students

Pass Rate by Program Size

Program size categories show variations in average NCLEX performance.

  • Small programs (<50 students/year): 91.87% pass rate with 123 students
  • Medium programs (50-100 students/year): 89.25% pass rate with 400 students
  • Large programs (>100 students/year): 84.35% pass rate with 262 students
#1

Bethel University

Saint Paul, MN - Private 4-year - bethel.edu

Bachelor's - Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Bethel University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program combines technical knowledge with Christian faith integration, preparing students for diverse nursing roles. This campus-based program emphasizes evidence-based practice and hands-on experience in state-of-the-art simulation labs, with strong clinical connections throughout the Twin Cities. Admission requires ACT or SAT scores. Recent NCLEX pass rates show strong performance, with 94.74% of 76 students passing in 2024, following 100% of 85 students in 2023. The program's Christ-centered approach and supportive faculty mentorship contribute to high alumni employment rates and competitive salaries.

  • Christ-centered nursing education.
  • State-of-the-art simulation labs.
  • Strong Twin Cities clinical connections.
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN licensure.
  • Evidence-based practice focus.
  • Faith integration in curriculum.
  • Supportive faculty mentorship.
  • Diverse clinical opportunities.
  • High alumni employment rates.
  • Competitive graduate salaries.

Bachelor's - Post-Baccalaureate Nursing

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Bethel University's Post-Baccalaureate Nursing program offers an accelerated 15-20 month hybrid pathway for career changers with non-nursing bachelor's degrees. Blending online coursework with in-person learning at $857 per credit, this program prepares students for NCLEX-RN licensure with a focus on compassionate, faith-based care. Admission requires a 2.85 GPA and prerequisite courses; no entrance exam is specified. The program builds on Bethel's strong nursing reputation, with recent NCLEX data showing excellent outcomes: 94.74% of 76 BSN students passed in 2024, following perfect 100% pass rates in 2023. Graduates develop leadership skills for diverse healthcare settings.

  • Accelerated 15-20 month program.
  • Hybrid online and in-person learning.
  • $857 per credit cost.
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN licensure.
  • Faith-based nursing education.
  • Requires 2.85 GPA for admission.
  • Prerequisite courses needed.
  • Compassionate faculty support.
  • Blended learning format.
  • Focus on whole-person care.
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#2

University of Northwestern-St Paul

Saint Paul, MN - Private 4-year - unwsp.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Northwestern-St Paul's Christ-centered Bachelor of Science in Nursing program combines online coursework with in-person clinical experiences, requiring prerequisites in chemistry and anatomy with a 'C' or higher. This hybrid program emphasizes servant leadership and spiritual development while preparing students for the NCLEX exam, with recent pass rates of 88.89% in 2022, 100% in 2023, and 95% in 2024. The curriculum includes state-of-the-art simulations and diverse clinical rotations throughout the Twin Cities area. As a bachelor's level program, it may require ACT or SAT entrance exams, though specific requirements should be verified directly with the institution.

  • 125 credits required.
  • Hybrid learning format.
  • 100% NCLEX pass rate.
  • State-of-the-art simulations.
  • Hands-on clinical experiences.
  • Servant leadership focus.
  • Flexible connected learning.
  • Community and support.
  • Preparation for NCLEX.
  • Christ-centered program.
#3

University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

Minneapolis, MN - Public 4-Year - twin-cities.umn.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Minnesota-Twin Cities' Bachelor of Science in Nursing program provides a robust education blending the resources of a major research university with a supportive learning environment. This CCNE-accredited program, available in Minneapolis and Rochester, maintains strong outcomes with a 92% graduation rate. For 2024, BSN students achieved a 92.59% NCLEX pass rate among 135 test-takers. Admission requires the ACT or SAT exam. The curriculum combines rigorous academics with hands-on clinical experiences, preparing graduates for diverse nursing careers through comprehensive training in both foundational and advanced nursing practices.

  • Accredited by CCNE.
  • 92% graduation rate.
  • 89% first-time pass rate.
  • Located in Twin Cities and Rochester.
  • For freshmen and transfer students.
  • Combines small college with Big 10 resources.
  • Rigorous academics and practical experience.
#4

University of St Thomas

Saint Paul, MN - Private 4-year - stthomas.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of St. Thomas offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that prepares students for NCLEX-RN licensure through a comprehensive curriculum emphasizing whole-person wellness and health equity. This campus-based program requires 56 nursing credits, 34 supporting course credits, and 40 liberal studies credits, with direct admission requiring a high school GPA of 3.5 or higher (ACT/SAT requirements not specified). The program focuses on cultural responsiveness, interprofessional collaboration, and evidence-based practice, with clinical placements providing real-world experience. While specific NCLEX pass rate data for this bachelor's program isn't provided in the available data, the university's MSN program showed a 91.67% pass rate in 2024. The program is accredited by CCNE and approved by the Minnesota Board of Nursing.

  • Direct Admission Pathway available.
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN licensure exam.
  • Focus on whole-person wellness.
  • 56 required nursing credits.
  • 34 credits in supporting courses.
  • 40 liberal studies credits.
  • High school GPA of 3.5 for direct admission.
  • General Admission Pathway for transfers.
  • Emphasis on cultural responsiveness.
  • Interprofessional collaboration focus.
#5

Minneapolis Community and Technical College

Minneapolis, MN - Public 2-Year - minneapolis.edu

Associate - Associate in Science Degree Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Minneapolis Community and Technical College's Associate in Science Degree in Nursing prepares students for RN licensure through a 64-credit program completed in four semesters. This campus-based program emphasizes concept-based learning and holistic care, with daytime weekday classes taught by expert faculty. Admission requires a TEAS exam score of 70% or higher, with deadlines in April and September. The program boasts strong NCLEX-RN pass rates, including 91.25% in 2024, 93.62% in 2023, and 82.29% in 2022. Accredited by ACEN and approved by the Minnesota Board of Nursing, it offers seamless transfer options to BSN programs at institutions like Augsburg University and provides advanced standing opportunities for LPNs.

  • 64 credits for completion.
  • Daytime, weekday classes.
  • High NCLEX-RN pass rate.
  • Seamless BSN transfer option.
  • TEAS exam required for admission.
  • LPN advanced standing available.
  • Diverse and inclusive community.
  • Accredited by ACEN.
  • Approved by MN Board of Nursing.
  • Concept-based learning approach.
*Information derived from: IPEDS 2024 survey, conducted by NCES.

Entry Level ADN, BSN, & MSN Programs in Minneapolis, MN

For those who don't hold an RN license, there are numerous entry-level degree pathways in the Minneapolis area. Students can opt for an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), a traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), or even a high-level Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN).

LPN to RN Programs

Many licensed practical nurses want to build on their existing licensure and experience working with patients to move into a career as an RN. These LPNs may be interested in LPN to RN bridge programs, which shorten the amount of time it takes to earn an associate’s degree in nursing. The program at Minneapolis Community & Technical College, for example, awards LPNs with unencumbered licenses five credits toward their ADN degree.

ADN Programs

The ADN degree is the shortest way to earn a basic RN education. These 2-year programs are often available at community and state colleges and are quite common. The Minnesota Alliance for Nursing Education (MANE) unites many community colleges in the Minneapolis area to promote baccalaureate nursing education. As part of this initiative, schools such as Anoka-Ramsey Community College offer an ADN degree with the option to continue on to earn a BSN.

Direct-Entry BSN Programs

Direct-entry BSN programs are designed for students who have not previously earned an ADN or nursing diploma. These classic 4-year degrees are starting to become more commonplace for healthcare employers, who often prefer them over lesser degree types. St. Catherine University in Minneapolis offers a traditional BSN pathway in which students take courses like Holistic Care of Adults, Nutrition Foundations, and more.

Find out more about Minnesota Accelerated BSN Programs.

Direct-Entry MSN Programs

This is a less common nursing program that allows a student to earn a master's degree in nursing in an accelerated format. Typically, these programs require that the applicant already holds a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field. St. Catherine University in St. Paul offers an entry-level MSN program that can be completed in just 26 months.

Find out more about Minnesota Accelerated MSN Programs.

RN to BSN/MSN Programs in Minneapolis, MN

RN to BSN and RN to MSN programs are often referred to as "bridge" programs because they allow ADN-educated RNs the chance to advance their education in a shorter amount of time by bridging the gap in knowledge. These programs are often available in online formats.

RN to BSN Programs

The RN to BSN program is a popular way for RNs with an ADN or diploma to earn a baccalaureate degree. Once prerequisite courses are completed, students move on to the bachelor's degree portion of the program. Metropolitan State University, for example, offers an RN to BSN program that requires just 32 total credits taken in 5 consecutive semesters to complete.

Learn more about Minnesota RN to BSN Programs.

RN to MSN Programs

For those who wish to specialize in an advanced practice area, the RN to MSN pathway is ideal. Capella University, for example, offers an online RN to MSN program in a variety of concentrations, including Care Coordination, Nursing Education, Nursing Informatics, and Nursing Leadership & Administration. These tracks require roughly 66 total credits to complete.

Learn more about Minnesota RN to MSN Programs.

List of RN to BSN/MSN Programs

If you're a registered nurse looking to advance your career, exploring RN to BSN or MSN programs can open new doors. This table lists schools with these programs, showing their city and state locations, key program highlights, and direct links to each school's program page for more details. You can easily compare options and find the right fit for your goals and schedule. Check out the information below to start your search and take the next step in your nursing education.

Minneapolis, MN

Augsburg University

  • RN to BSN - Bachelor of Science in Nursing Completion Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • Asynchronous online format
    • 12-month completion possible
    • 32-36 credit requirements
    • Multiple start times annually
    • Transcultural nursing focus
    • Community immersion experiences
    • Public health nursing certification
    • Flexible pathway options

Saint Paul, MN

Metropolitan State University

  • RN to BSN - Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online, part-time flexible format
    • Holistic nursing approach
    • Health equity focus
    • Five semester progression
    • 31 nursing major credits
    • Two courses per semester
    • Endorsed by Holistic Nursing Credentialing
    • Public health nursing eligible

St Catherine University

  • RN to BSN - RN-BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online degree completion program
    • 22-28 total program credits
    • Minimum 2.5 GPA required
    • Current RN licensure needed
    • Practicum-integrated courses
    • Leadership and systems focus
    • Evidence-based practice emphasis
    • Population health curriculum
*Source: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/, IPEDS 2024 release.

APRN & Nurse Practitioner Programs in Minneapolis, MN

Advanced nursing program options are available for those who want to access the highest positions as nurse practitioners. Pathways include the traditional MSN degree, the post-master's certificate, and even doctoral programs such as the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or the Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (Ph.D.).

MSN Programs

The MSN degree is a common post-graduate nursing degree. Typically requiring around 2 years beyond a BSN degree, the MSN degree allows students to specialize in a number of concentrations.

Learn more about Minnesota Nurse Practitioner Programs.

Post-Master's Certificate Programs

Post-graduate programs are designed for nurses who have already earned an MSN degree, but who wish to change specializations. This allows them to do so without having to obtain another lengthy degree. The University of Minnesota offers many post-master's certificates in specialties such as Women's Health Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Midwifery, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and more.

Learn more about Minnesota Post-Master's Certificate Programs.

DNP and Ph.D. Programs

Doctoral programs are considered terminal degree types in nursing. Students can choose between earning a DNP, which focuses on clinical practice, or a Ph.D., which focuses on education and research. Metropolitan State University offers both a BSN to DNP and an MSN to DNP. The University of Minnesota offers a Ph.D. in nursing program that takes 4-5 years to complete, on average.

Learn more about Minnesota DNP Programs.

List of APRN (MSN, DNP, & NP) Programs in Minneapolis

If you're looking for APRN programs in Minneapolis, you'll find several options to advance your nursing career. This table lists schools offering MSN, DNP, and NP programs in the area. It includes each school's location, key program features, and links to their program pages for more details. Explore these opportunities to find the right fit for your educational goals.

Minneapolis, MN

Augsburg University

  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice - Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format
    • 80 total program credits
    • 4-year full-time completion
    • Synchronous and asynchronous learning
    • Transcultural immersion experiences
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Lutheran values-guided education
    • RN licensure prerequisite

Capella University

  • BSN to MSN - MSN in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online and in-person format.
    • 64 total quarter credits.
    • 750 minimum practicum hours.
    • $595 per credit tuition.
    • No application fee required.
    • BSN with 3.0 GPA needed.
    • One year RN experience required.
    • Unrestricted RN license mandatory.
  • BSN to MSN - MSN in Care Coordination

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online learning format.
    • CCNE accredited program.
    • FlexPath and GuidedPath options.
    • 54 total quarter credits.
    • 500 minimum practicum hours.
    • BSN admission required.
    • 2.8 minimum GPA.
    • Unrestricted RN license needed.
  • BSN to MSN - MSN in Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 68 total quarter credits.
    • 750 minimum practicum hours.
    • Hybrid online and in-person format.
    • $595 per credit tuition.
    • Estimated cost $40,460.
    • BSN with 3.0 GPA required.
    • Active RN license needed.
    • One year RN experience required.
  • BSN to MSN - MSN in Nursing Education

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format
    • FlexPath learning option
    • CCNE accredited
    • 54 total quarter credits
    • 500 practicum hours required
    • 7 core courses
    • 4 specialization courses
    • 2 practicum courses

University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

  • MSN to DNP - Adult Gerontological Primary Care Nurse Practitioner DNP

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Three-year full-time DNP program
    • 82 total program credits
    • 1,000 clinical hours required
    • $1,100 per credit cost
    • 3.0 minimum admission GPA
    • Hybrid program format
    • CCNE accredited program
    • National certification preparation
  • MSN to DNP - Adult/Gerontological Clinical Nurse Specialist DNP

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CCNE Accredited Program
    • 3-4 Year Post-Baccalaureate Option
    • 1,000 Clinical Hours Required
    • Subspecialty Focus Opportunities
    • $1,100 Per Credit Cost
    • 3.0 Minimum Admission GPA
    • Hybrid Program Format
    • Campus Intensives Each Semester
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Midwifery Program

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Fully ACNM Accredited Program
    • 3-4 Year Post-Baccalaureate Option
    • 1,000 Clinical Training Hours
    • $1,100 Per Credit Cost
    • 3.0 Minimum Admission GPA
    • Hybrid Program Format
    • National Certification Eligible
    • Women's Health Leadership Focus
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 12 specialty areas available
    • Hybrid program format
    • Three to four-year options
    • Interprofessional learning experiences
    • Campus sessions each semester
    • Post-master's DNP pathway
    • Nationally accredited program
    • Leadership and innovation focus
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 3-year full-time program
    • On-campus hybrid learning
    • 1,000 clinical hours
    • Comprehensive patient care training
    • Evidence-based practice focus
    • Lifespan patient management
    • Professional certification eligibility
    • Advanced diagnostic skills
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Health Innovation and Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 3-year full-time online program
    • Approximately 1,000 practicum hours
    • Global learning opportunities
    • Prepares leaders for diverse roles
    • International course options
    • Customizable specialty focus
    • Online with brief campus sessions
    • Interprofessional practice emphasis
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Nursing Informatics - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 65 total credit program
    • Hybrid online/campus format
    • $1,100 per credit
    • 3.0 minimum admission GPA
    • 1,000 hours practicum experience
    • Campus sessions each semester
    • ANCC certification preparation
    • Primarily online delivery
  • MSN to DNP - Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist DNP

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Three-year full-time DNP program
    • $1,100 per credit cost
    • 1,000 clinical hours required
    • 3.0 minimum admission GPA
    • Campus and clinical training
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Pediatric certification preparation
    • Leadership and research focus
  • MSN to DNP - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 3-year full-time program
    • Approximately 1,000 clinical hours
    • On-campus sessions each semester
    • Prepare for pediatric certification exam
    • Diverse clinical experience settings
    • Leadership and policy development focus
    • Care for diverse patient populations
    • Expert clinician mentorship
  • MSN to DNP - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner- Acute Care specialty Certificate

    Concentration: Acute Care - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Three-semester post-graduate certificate
    • Prepares nurses for complex pediatric care
    • Covers ages infant to 21
    • Multiple healthcare setting training
    • Partners with major children's hospitals
  • MSN to DNP - Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Clinical Nurse Specialist - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • One-year, mostly online program
    • Accredited by Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
    • For master's-prepared advanced practice nurses
    • Minimal campus visits (4 days per semester)
    • Hybrid learning format
  • MSN to DNP - Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • One-year hybrid program
    • Mostly online with campus sessions
    • Accredited by CCNE
    • For master's-prepared APRNs
    • Three-semester commitment
  • MSN to DNP - Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 80 total credit doctoral program
    • 3-4 year completion options
    • $1,100 per credit cost
    • 3.0 minimum admission GPA
    • On-campus hybrid format
    • 1,000 clinical hours required
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Certification exam preparation
  • MSN to DNP - Public Health Nursing Practice DNP/MPH - Dual Degrees

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Dual degree program.
    • Hybrid or online options.
    • Save time and money.
    • Transfer up to 14 credits.
    • Focus on public health policy.
    • Evidence-based interventions.
    • Improve population health.
    • Flexible for career goals.
  • MSN to DNP - Women's Health/Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 3-year full-time doctoral program
    • Approximately 1,000 clinical hours
    • On-campus sessions each semester
    • Holistic, interprofessional approach
    • Primary care preparation for women
    • National certification eligible
    • Diverse clinical placement opportunities

Walden University

  • BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format.
    • BSN-to-MSN track: 58 credits.
    • RN-to-MSN track: 84 credits.
    • 640 practicum hours required.
    • Tuition from $40,650.
    • CCNE-accredited program.
    • No application fee.
    • No essay requirement.
  • BSN to MSN - Dual Degree - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Master of Business Administration (MBA)

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format.
    • 70 total quarter credits.
    • MSN Nurse Executive specialization.
    • MBA Self-Designed specialization.
    • CCNE and ACBSP accreditation.
    • Capstone synthesis practicum.
    • Field experience preparation course.
    • Core business skills included.
  • BSN to MSN - MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format.
    • CCNE-accredited nursing program.
    • BSN-MSN and RN-MSN tracks.
    • Minimum 24 months completion.
    • 58 quarter credits for BSN-MSN.
    • 84 quarter credits for RN-MSN.
    • Tuition from $40,650.
    • Scholarships and financial aid.
  • BSN to MSN - MSN Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format.
    • BSN to MSN track: 58 credits.
    • RN to MSN track: 84 credits.
    • Minimum 24-month completion time.
    • Tuition starts at $40,650.
    • Believe & Achieve Scholarship available.
    • No application fee required.
    • No essay or SAT/ACT needed.
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

    Concentration: Public Health Nursing - Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format.
    • Public Health Nursing concentration.
    • CCNE-accredited nursing programs.
    • Flexible Tempo Learning option.
    • Field experience required.
    • Focus on social change.
    • Leadership development emphasis.
    • Potential tuition savings.
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Concentration: Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format.
    • Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specialization.
    • 63 quarter credits for BSN to MSN.
    • 89 quarter credits for RN to MSN.
    • Finish in as few as 24 months.
    • Tuition starts at $44,705.
    • No application fee required.
    • No essay or SAT/ACT needed.
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care

    Concentration: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care - Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format.
    • Two completion tracks available.
    • BSN to MSN: 63 credits.
    • RN to MSN: 89 credits.
    • CCNE accredited program.
    • Focus on pediatric primary care.
    • Prepares for national certification.
    • Includes clinical practicum experiences.
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Nursing Informatics - Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format.
    • Nursing Informatics concentration.
    • 53 quarter credits for BSN-MSN.
    • 79 quarter credits for RN-MSN.
    • Course-based or self-paced options.
    • Finish in as few as 18 months.
    • Tuition from $22,580.
    • Believe & Achieve Scholarship available.

Saint Paul, MN

Metropolitan State University

  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice, Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP)

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 75-credit BSN to DNP track
    • 67-credit Entry Level MSN track
    • 1,000+ clinical hours
    • Doctoral-prepared nursing faculty
    • Hybrid program format
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Minnesota Board of Nursing approved
    • 3.0 minimum GPA requirement

St Catherine University

  • BSN to MSN - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)

    Concentration: Neonatal - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format
    • Advanced nursing practice focus
    • Specialized neonatal concentration
    • DNP project completion
    • Certification exam eligibility
    • Complex healthcare problem solving
    • Population health emphasis
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Nurse Educator - Online Learning - Website

    • Online MSN Nurse Educator program
    • 1-2 years completion time
    • 33 total credits required
    • $760 per credit tuition
    • Total tuition $25,080
    • Fall and Spring start options
    • Evidence-based curriculum
    • Nurse Faculty Loan Program available
  • MSN to DNP - DNP: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Practice-focused doctoral degree
    • Hybrid online/classroom format
    • Advanced nursing leadership
    • 3.0 GPA requirement
    • Two years nursing experience
    • Accredited nursing program
    • Specialization options available
    • Interprofessional collaboration focus
  • MSN to DNP - DNP: Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Doctoral nursing program
    • 3-4 year hybrid format
    • 69 total program credits
    • Advanced clinical training
    • Focuses on vulnerable populations
    • Leadership and ethics emphasis
    • Comprehensive patient care approach
    • Advanced clinical reasoning skills
*From: U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS 2024. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Comprehensive List of Nursing Schools Near Minneapolis, MN

If you're looking for nursing schools near Minneapolis, MN, you've come to the right place. This list shows schools in the area, along with their city and state, program highlights, and links to learn more. Whether you want an associate degree, bachelor's, or advanced training, you can find options here to start your nursing career. Check out the table below for details on each school and its programs.
Jump to City:

Minneapolis, MN

Augsburg University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing Completion Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online asynchronous format
    • 12-month completion option
    • 32-36 credits required
    • RN license required
    • Fall, Spring, Summer starts
    • Transcultural nursing focus
    • Community immersion experiences
    • CCNE accredited

Minneapolis Community and Technical College

  • Associate - Associate in Science Degree Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 64 credits for completion.
    • Daytime, weekday classes.
    • High NCLEX-RN pass rate.
    • Seamless BSN transfer option.
    • TEAS exam required for admission.
    • LPN advanced standing available.
    • Diverse and inclusive community.
    • Accredited by ACEN.

University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Accredited by CCNE.
    • 92% graduation rate.
    • 89% first-time pass rate.
    • Located in Twin Cities and Rochester.
    • For freshmen and transfer students.
    • Combines small college with Big 10 resources.
    • Rigorous academics and practical experience.

Walden University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online Learning - Website

    • CCNE-accredited program
    • Flexible online learning
    • Course-based and Tempo Learning® options
    • Transfer up to 75% credits
    • Focus on leadership and health promotion
    • Active RN license required
    • Evidence-based practice curriculum
    • Financial aid available

Saint Bonifacius, MN

Crown College

  • Bachelor's - Nursing B.S.

    Campus Based - Website

    • Accredited by CCNE.
    • 100% NCLEX pass rate.
    • Small cohort sizes.
    • Biblical worldview integration.
    • Hands-on clinical experiences.
    • Expert faculty mentorship.
    • Personalized education approach.
    • Financial aid available.

Saint Paul, MN

Bethel University

  • Bachelor's - Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Christ-centered nursing education.
    • State-of-the-art simulation labs.
    • Strong Twin Cities clinical connections.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN licensure.
    • Evidence-based practice focus.
    • Faith integration in curriculum.
    • Supportive faculty mentorship.
    • Diverse clinical opportunities.
  • Bachelor's - Post-Baccalaureate Nursing

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Accelerated 15-20 month program.
    • Hybrid online and in-person learning.
    • $857 per credit cost.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN licensure.
    • Faith-based nursing education.
    • Requires 2.85 GPA for admission.
    • Prerequisite courses needed.
    • Compassionate faculty support.

Concordia University-Saint Paul

  • Bachelor's - BSN Traditional Pre-Licensure

    Campus Based - Website

    • 5 semesters program length
    • On-campus learning
    • Over 700 clinical hours
    • 90.38% NCLEX-RN pass rate
    • Starts fall and spring
    • Clinical learning from first semester
    • Focus on holistic care
    • Leadership and technology emphasis

Metropolitan State University

  • Bachelor's - Prelicensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Four-year undergraduate nursing program
    • 2.75 minimum GPA requirement
    • NCLEX-RN exam preparation
    • Holistic nursing care approach
    • Diverse clinical experiences
    • Focus on health equity
    • Comprehensive prerequisite courses
    • Public Health Nurse eligibility

St Catherine University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid learning format
    • 21 months to completion
    • $525 per credit cost
    • NCLEX-RN exam preparation
    • Public Health Nursing certificate eligible
    • Holistic Nurse certification eligible
    • Multicultural and social justice focus
    • Clinical experiences in Twin Cities

University of Northwestern-St Paul

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 125 credits required.
    • Hybrid learning format.
    • 100% NCLEX pass rate.
    • State-of-the-art simulations.
    • Hands-on clinical experiences.
    • Servant leadership focus.
    • Flexible connected learning.
    • Community and support.

University of St Thomas

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Direct Admission Pathway available.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN licensure exam.
    • Focus on whole-person wellness.
    • 56 required nursing credits.
    • 34 credits in supporting courses.
    • 40 liberal studies credits.
    • High school GPA of 3.5 for direct admission.
    • General Admission Pathway for transfers.
*Original data from: National Center for Education Statistics' IPEDS program (2024).