Best Nursing Schools in Minnesota
If you’re looking for a good place to start a new career as a nurse, there are few places better to do so than Minnesota. There are dozens of well-renowned nursing programs that come in a variety of placement options which means that regardless of whether you’re just starting out or you’re looking to go back to school for a higher-level degree, there is sure to be a great option for your specific needs. Furthermore, the future is bright for future nurses at all levels. Current projections point to a 7% increase in nursing positions within the next 10 years. To find a nursing program near you and learn what you’ll need to do to become a nurse, check out the sections below.
2027 Best Nursing Schools in Minnesota
For aspiring nurses in Minnesota, choosing the right nursing school is critical. Rankings help students compare programs objectively using reliable data. At Registerednursing.org, we've created these rankings using NCLEX pass rates as the sole ranking criterion. Here are the Best Nursing Schools in Minnesota. Methodology: https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/
Yearly Pass Rate Trends
Across Minnesota, the statewide average pass rate has steadily increased, rising from 75.53% in 2022 to 89.46% in 2024, while the number of test-takers declined. This upward trend suggests improving program outcomes despite fewer graduates.
- 2022: 75.53% pass rate (3,985 students)
- 2023: 85.58% pass rate (3,709 students)
- 2024: 89.46% pass rate (3,444 students)
BSN vs ADN Pass Rate Comparison
When comparing program types, MSN programs lead with a 93.3% average pass rate, followed closely by BSN programs at 89.73% and ADN programs at 88.86%. ADN programs, however, had the highest number of students, indicating their strong presence in Minnesota.
- BSN: 89.73% average pass rate (1,461 students)
- MSN: 93.3% average pass rate (179 students)
- ADN: 88.86% average pass rate (1,804 students)
Top Performing Schools
Among Minnesota nursing schools with at least 20 students in our dataset, St Olaf College tops the list with an outstanding 98.51% average pass rate, followed by Saint Cloud State University and St Cloud Technical and Community College.
- St Olaf College: 98.51% average pass rate (67 students over 3 years)
- Saint Cloud State University: 95.67% average pass rate (208 students over 3 years)
- St Cloud Technical and Community College: 95.24% average pass rate (126 students over 3 years)
Pass Rate by Program Size
Smaller nursing programs (fewer than 50 students per year) tend to have the highest average pass rate at 92.4%, while medium and large programs also perform well, with average pass rates above 88%.
- Small (<50 students/year): 92.4% average pass rate (434 students)
- Medium (50-100): 89.26% average pass rate (1,685 students)
- Large (>100): 88.75% average pass rate (1,325 students)
Geographic Trends
Within Minnesota's largest cities, Minneapolis boasts the highest average pass rate at 93.45%, followed closely by Saint Paul at 90.83%. Duluth also performs strongly, while Bloomington and Winona show slightly lower averages.
- Saint Paul: 90.83% average pass rate (469 students)
- Duluth: 88.55% average pass rate (288 students)
- Minneapolis: 93.45% average pass rate (275 students)
- Bloomington: 84.61% average pass rate (221 students)
- Winona: 83.02% average pass rate (218 students)
Saint Cloud State University
Saint Cloud, MN - Public 4-Year - stcloudstate.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
St. Cloud State University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program prepares students for a rewarding career in healthcare. The curriculum integrates critical thinking, communication, ethics, and culturally appropriate care, with a focus on holistic nursing concepts. Students gain hands-on experience through a required internship and a one-month capstone experience at various clinical agencies across Minnesota. The program also offers a state-of-the-art simulation lab for immersive learning. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam and can pursue certification as public health nurses or school nurse licensure. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, the program provides a solid foundation for a career as a registered nurse in diverse healthcare settings. Study abroad opportunities in South Africa add a global perspective to the learning experience.
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- Capstone required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Scholarships available
- Simulation lab with state-of-the-art equipment
- Required internship for hands-on experience
- Global health study abroad opportunity
- School nurse licensure option
St Cloud Technical and Community College
Saint Cloud, MN - Public 2-Year - sctcc.edu
Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
Campus Based - Visit Website
St. Cloud Technical and Community College offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN and a career as a registered nurse. The curriculum integrates classroom lectures, simulation labs, and clinical experiences, focusing on client-centered care, sound nursing judgment, ethical practice, and evidence-based care. Graduates are equipped to work in diverse healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, and community health centers. The program also features an LPN to ADN Mobility track for licensed practical nurses seeking advancement. With a 100% placement rate and strong NCLEX pass rates, students benefit from articulation agreements with Minnesota State University Moorhead and St. Cloud State University for seamless BSN completion. Financial aid and scholarships are available, and the program holds accreditation from the NLN CNEA and approval from the Minnesota Board of Nursing.
- National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA), Minnesota Board of Nursing accredited
- 97% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- $49 median earnings
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- Nursing Club for community and support
- Articulation with MSU-Moorhead for BSN
Associate - Nursing - LPN to ADN Mobility Associate of Science
Campus Based - Visit Website
The LPN to ADN Mobility Associate of Science at St. Cloud Technical and Community College is designed for licensed practical nurses seeking to advance to registered nurse. This 64-credit program combines classroom lectures, simulation labs, and clinical experiences to build skills in client-centered care, sound nursing judgment, and professional practice. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN and pursue careers in hospitals and clinics across Minnesota, with employers like CentraCare and Fairview. The program holds accreditation from NLN CNEA and is approved by the Minnesota Board of Nursing, ensuring high standards. With a 100% placement rate and seamless transfer options to MSU-Moorhead or SCSU for a BSN, this program offers a clear path to career advancement.
- NLN CNEA, Minnesota Board of Nursing accredited
- 64 total credit hours
- 100% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Transfer to MSU-Moorhead BSN
- Transfer to SCSU BSN
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- Nursing Club available
Bemidji State University
Bemidji, MN - Public 4-Year - bemidjistate.edu
Bachelor's - Nursing B.S. (Pre-Licensure)
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Pre-Licensure) track at Bemidji State University prepares students for RN licensure and a career in nursing. The curriculum covers anatomy, physiology, lifespan development, chemistry, and microbiology, alongside nursing courses. Students gain hands-on experience in an 8,000-square-foot simulation lab with six hospital bays and high-fidelity mannequins, plus clinical rotations at local healthcare facilities. The program is cohort-based, starting each spring, and can be completed in five semesters. Bemidji State’s pre-licensure track emphasizes critical thinking and leadership, with a strong NCLEX pass rate. Students benefit from rolling admissions and personalized support from a nursing student services coordinator. Graduates are prepared for roles in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings.
- CCNE accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 5-Semester program
- Complete in as little as five semesters
- Rolling admissions
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts spring
- Cohort-based structure
- 2.8 GPA minimum
Bachelor's - Nursing B.S. (RN to B.S.)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Bemidji State University's online RN to B.S. program is designed specifically for working registered nurses seeking to advance their careers. The curriculum blends nursing theory, research, and leadership with hands-on community practicums, preparing graduates for roles such as charge nurse, director of nursing, case manager, or clinical research coordinator. With a focus on rural health, family health, and palliative care, the program equips nurses to meet diverse patient needs. Students benefit from small class sizes and personalized mentorship from experienced faculty. The program offers flexible part-time and full-time tracks, allowing completion in as little as one year full-time. Banded tuition keeps costs predictable, and over $41,000 in scholarships is awarded annually. The RN Advantage grants 15 upper-level credits for an unencumbered RN license. With 100% online coursework and no required campus visits, this affordable program helps nurses gain the BSN that 77% of employers prefer.
- 3-Semester program
- Locked tuition rate
- Complete in as little as one year
- Full-time and part-time options
- 5 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring/summer
- 2.3 GPA minimum
- $0 application fee
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
Alexandria Technical & Community College
Alexandria, MN - Public 2-Year - alextech.edu
Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Alexandria Technical & Community College offers an Associate Degree of Nursing (ADN) program designed for current LPNs seeking RN licensure. The program is delivered on campus and can be completed in just two semesters after general education prerequisites. Students enter a fall cohort and progress through nursing courses covering patient care, healthcare team collaboration, and clinical skills. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam and pursue careers as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. The program boasts a 100% job placement rate and an average starting wage of $28-33 per hour. ATCC's ADN program is accredited by the NLN CNEA, ensuring quality education aligned with industry standards. With flexible scheduling and a supportive learning environment, this program offers a clear pathway to a rewarding nursing career.
- NLN CNEA accredited
- 2-Semester program
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 100% job placement rate
- 2.8 GPA minimum
- $28.32-33.20/hour
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Scholarships available
- LPN license required for admission
Bethel University
Saint Paul, MN - Private 4-year - bethel.edu
Bachelor's - Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Bethel’s B.S.N. program blends rigorous nursing science with a Christ-centered worldview, preparing you to deliver compassionate, evidence-based care in a wide range of healthcare settings. Through hands-on clinical rotations at over 30 partner agencies in the Twin Cities, you’ll build experience in hospitals, clinics, public health, and more. State-of-the-art simulation labs let you practice high-stakes scenarios in a safe environment. Faculty mentors guide you in research and ethical decision-making, while career coaching starts from day one. You’ll develop critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills grounded in Christian values. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN and enter a growing field with strong earning potential. Whether you aim for hospital nursing, community health, or graduate study, Bethel’s supportive community and practical focus set you up for a fulfilling career.
- 4-Year program
- 2.8 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Christ-centered learning community
- Life-like simulation labs
- Over 30 clinical agencies
- Career coaching and preparation
Bachelor's - Post-Baccalaureate Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Bethel University's Post-Baccalaureate Nursing program is an accelerated BSN pathway for those with a non-nursing bachelor's degree. This hybrid program blends online coursework with in-person sessions in St. Paul, MN, allowing you to finish in as few as 15-20 months. The curriculum builds critical thinking, clinical decision-making, and compassionate care from a faith-based perspective. You'll learn to apply research, lead effectively, and communicate across diverse settings. Graduates are eligible for the NCLEX-RN exam and pursue careers in hospitals, clinics, public health, and more. With a 99% employment or continuing education rate, this program prepares you for immediate impact. Tuition is $891 per credit, and scholarships like the Brace Scholarship are available. Faculty mentors provide support throughout your journey.
- $891 per credit
- Complete in Finish in as few as 15-20 months
- 99% job placement rate
- 2.9 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Accelerated pathway to licensure
- Faith-based nursing education
Minnesota Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
For those interested in pursuing a career as a registered nurse, Minnesota provides multiple pathways for entry into the nursing field. Aspiring nurses can choose from a variety of foundational degree programs, each designed to equip them with essential skills and knowledge. Many students begin their nursing journey with an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a nursing diploma, which offers fast-tracked entry into healthcare settings. Others prefer to invest in a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), which opens doors to a broader range of job opportunities and lays a strong foundation for future educational advancement. Keep reading to explore these entry-level nursing degree options in more detail and determine which path best aligns with your career goals.
Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs
The quickest route to becoming a registered nurse is through an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), a program that can be completed in just two years. Alternatively, students may consider an RN diploma, typically available through specialized nursing schools and hospitals, which generally takes one to two years. The key difference between an ADN and an RN diploma is that an ADN program includes additional general education courses, while the diploma focuses strictly on essential nursing skills. For those who are already Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), the LPN to RN bridge program is another strong option, offering pathways to earn either an ADN or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). These affordable routes provide access to entry-level registered nursing careers, but it's important to select an accredited program to ensure eligibility for licensure, career advancement, and further educational opportunities.
Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Minnesota 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:
| Program | Estimated Tuition | Estimated Credits | Online Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADN | $6,000 – $15,000 | 60-72 credits | Limited online courses, primarily on-campus |
| LPN to RN | $4,000 – $10,000 | 30-45 credits | Often hybrid; some online courses |
| RN Diploma | $5,000 – $12,000 | 40-60 credits | Rarely 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 Minnesota.
Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs
If you're hoping to dedicate a bit more time to your nursing education, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in Minnesota could be the ideal path. A traditional BSN program generally spans four years, providing a comprehensive foundation in nursing and healthcare. However, if you already have nursing experience and hold an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), you might qualify for an RN to BSN program, which can enable you to earn your BSN in as little as two years. Additionally, if you have a bachelor's degree in another field but wish to transition into nursing, an Accelerated BSN (ABSN) program is a fast-track option. This program builds on your previous education, allowing you to complete your BSN in as little as one year.
Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Minnesota 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:
| Program | Length | Estimated Tuition | Entrance Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional BSN | 4 years (120-126 credits) | $20,000 – $50,000 | First-time college students |
| RN to BSN | 1-2 years (30-35 credits) | $10,000 – $20,000 | Licensed RNs with an ADN |
| ABSN | 12-18 months (50-60 credits) | $25,000 – $40,000 | Non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders |
RN to BSN
For RN bridge programs visit:
A Minnesota RN to BSN offers a faster route to earning your BSN, allowing you to graduate in just two years compared to the four years typically required for a traditional BSN program. To qualify for an RN to BSN program, you must hold an active RN license and have completed an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN).
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
Students in Minnesota who aim to pursue a career as a nurse practitioner or advanced practice nurse have a wide range of educational options to explore. Whether you’re interested in earning a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program, a bridge program to enter advanced practice, or even pursuing a doctorate degree such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), there is a pathway available. Most of these advanced programs require applicants to already hold at least a BSN or MSN, maintain an active and unencumbered RN license, and fulfill each program's specific entry criteria.
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 Minnesota:
- Minnesota Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Minnesota MSN Program
- Minnesota Accelerated MSN Program
- Minnesota RN to MSN Programs
- Minnesota Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
- Minnesota DNP Programs
See Related Articles
Getting an RN License in Minnesota
In addition to the educational steps required to become a registered nurse, there are also specific licensure requirements to consider. To obtain your RN license in Minnesota, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam and submit a formal application, along with the appropriate fee, to the Minnesota Board of Nursing. After you become licensed, maintaining your RN license will require you to complete continuing education courses to stay current in the field.
Requirements for RN Licensure in Minnesota
- Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
- Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
- Application to the Minnesota Board of Nursing
- Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance
Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?
In simple terms, graduates from non-accredited schools are ineligible for licensure, which is required for all nurses in Minnesota. As you search for the right program, be sure any programs you consider are accredited by either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Accreditation confirms that a program meets the Minnesota Board of Nursing's standards for RN education, ensuring you are eligible for licensure upon graduation.
Cities With Nursing Programs in Minnesota
List of Nursing Schools in Minnesota
Alexandria, MN
Alexandria Technical & Community College
- Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- NLN CNEA accredited
- 2-Semester program
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 100% job placement rate
- 2.8 GPA minimum
- $28.32-33.20/hour
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
Austin, MN
Riverland Community College
- Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing (RN Track)
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
- 2 concentration options
- Entrance exam required
- 4-Semester program
- Complete in two years
- 64 total credit hours
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
Bemidji, MN
Bemidji State University
- Bachelor's - Nursing B.S. (Pre-Licensure)
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 5-Semester program
- Complete in as little as five semesters
- Rolling admissions
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts spring
- Bachelor's - Nursing B.S. (RN to B.S.)
Online Learning - Website
- 3-Semester program
- Locked tuition rate
- Complete in as little as one year
- Full-time and part-time options
- 5 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring/summer
- 2.3 GPA minimum
- $0 application fee
Bloomington, MN
Normandale Community College
- Associate - Professional Nursing Associate of Science (AS) Degree
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 4-Semester program
- 64 total credit hours
- Apply by 2026-04-15
- Starts fall
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
Brooklyn Park, MN
North Hennepin Community College
- Bachelor's - Minnesota Alliance for Nursing Education (MANE) BSN Program
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid nursing degree program
- Dual admission to NHCC/MSU
- Competitive admission process
- ATI TEAS required
- Advanced standing for LPNs
- Minimum 2.75 nursing GPA
- Multiple application periods
- Official transcripts mandatory
Cloquet, MN
Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College
- Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- 2 concentration options
- Entrance exam required
- 4-Semester program
- Complete in four-semester track (after pre-requisites have been completed)
- 64 total credit hours
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
Collegeville, MN
Saint Johns University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science with a major in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 4-Year program
- Capstone required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Cultural immersion experience available
- Sigma honor society active
- Nursing Club for leadership and service
- Direct admission for qualified new students
- 4+1 option for graduate work
Coon Rapids, MN
Anoka-Ramsey Community College
- Associate - LPN to RN Track
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- 2 concentration options
- 64 total credit hours
- Starts fall/spring
- 98% licensure pass rate
- 46% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
Duluth, MN
Lake Superior College
- Associate - Professional Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 2 program
- 64 total credit hours
- Apply by 2026-08-07
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Work experience required
The College of Saint Scholastica
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science Nursing Traditional Nursing Program
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Top 3 nursing talent provider in Minnesota
- Ranked #1 for early post-graduation earnings
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
Granite Falls, MN
Minnesota West Community and Technical College
- Associate - Nursing, AS
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- 1-Year program
- 100% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- LPN to RN bridge program
Hibbing, MN
Minnesota North College
- Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 64 total credit hours
- Clinical experiences at local healthcare facilities
- Transfer agreements with four-year universities
- Campus locations across northern Minnesota
- Median salary $86K in nursing field
- 6% projected job growth next decade
- Associate - Nursing Advanced Standing Track (LPN to RN) A.S
Concentration: LPN to RN - Campus Based - Website
- National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA) accredited
- Priority deadline February 1
- Three campus locations available
- Admissions on ongoing basis
Mankato, MN
Bethany Lutheran College
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: HESI
- 4-Year program
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 100% licensure pass rate
- Cohort-based structure
Minnesota State University-Mankato
- Bachelor's - Pre-Licensure Nursing Program
Campus Based - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- Prepares for RN licensure
- Hands-on clinical experiences
- Nursing internship course
- Simulation center available
- Student Nurses Association
- DEI learning environment
Minneapolis, MN
Augsburg University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing Completion Program
Online Learning - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 12-Month program
- 32 total credit hours
- Full-time and part-time options
- 3 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring/summer
- Asynchronous online classes
- Financial aid available
Minneapolis Community and Technical College
- Associate - Associate in Science Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 4-Semester program
- 64 total credit hours
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- Prerequisite courses required
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 93% licensure pass rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- 92% on-time graduation rate
- Located in Twin Cities and Rochester
- Community of small college within Big 10
- Innovative curriculum sends students to TCUs
Walden University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online Learning - Website
- CCNE accredited
- $365 per credit
- 9-Month program
- Complete in as few as Nine Months
- 46 total credit hours
- $0 application fee
- Military benefits accepted
- Financial aid available
Moorhead, MN
Concordia College at Moorhead
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- 12-Month program
- 54 total credit hours
- 97% licensure pass rate
- Cohort-based structure
- 100% job placement rate
- 500 clinical hours
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Bachelor's - Traditional BSN Program
Campus Based - Website
- 4-Year program
- Starts fall
- Involvement in music, athletics, theatre
- Streamlined online or Common App application
Minnesota State University Moorhead
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- NLN CNEA accredited
- 8-Semester program
- 3 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring/summer
- Military benefits accepted
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- 100% employment rate
North Mankato, MN
South Central College
- Associate - Professional Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN, Minnesota Board of Nursing accredited
- 64 total credit hours
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- 86% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Over 50 years training nurses
Pine City, MN
Pine Technical & Community College
- Associate - Nursing Mobility AS
Campus Based - Website
- NLN CNEA accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- Apply by 2026-07-31
- Full-time and part-time options
- Starts fall
- 81% licensure pass rate
- Cohort-based structure
Rochester, MN
Rochester Community and Technical College
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing Program
Campus Based - Website
- 4-Semester program
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Credit for prior LPN education
- Associate - LPN Mobility track
Concentration: LPN Mobility - Campus Based - Website
- 2 concentration options
- 3-Semester program
- Complete in complete the program in three semesters
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Advanced placement for licensed practical nurses
Saint Bonifacius, MN
Crown College
- Bachelor's - Nursing B.S.
Campus Based - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 100% licensure pass rate
- Cohort-based structure
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Direct admission from high school
- Real-world clinical experience
Saint Cloud, MN
Saint Cloud State University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- Capstone required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Scholarships available
- Simulation lab with state-of-the-art equipment
- Required internship for hands-on experience
St Cloud Technical and Community College
- Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
Campus Based - Website
- National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA), Minnesota Board of Nursing accredited
- 97% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- $49 median earnings
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Ranked #2 in Best Nursing Schools in Minnesota
- Associate - Nursing - LPN to ADN Mobility Associate of Science
Campus Based - Website
- NLN CNEA, Minnesota Board of Nursing accredited
- 64 total credit hours
- 100% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Transfer to MSU-Moorhead BSN
- Transfer to SCSU BSN
Saint Joseph, MN
College of Saint Benedict
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science with a major in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 4-Year program
- Capstone required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Cultural immersion experience
- Sigma nursing honor society
- Direct admission available
- 4+1 accelerated option
- Nursing Club activities
Saint Paul, MN
Bethel University
- Bachelor's - Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 4-Year program
- 2.8 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Christ-centered learning community
- Life-like simulation labs
- Bachelor's - Post-Baccalaureate Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- $891 per credit
- Complete in Finish in as few as 15-20 months
- 99% job placement rate
- 2.9 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
Concordia University-Saint Paul
- Bachelor's - BSN Traditional Pre-Licensure
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- Starts fall/spring
- 700 clinical hours
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- 97.5% undergraduate placement rate
- 86.92% NCLEX-RN pass rate
- 270 laboratory hours
Metropolitan State University
- Bachelor's - Prelicensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 4-Year program
- Complete in four-year undergraduate program
- Apply by 2026-08-21
- 2.8 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Capstone required
St Catherine University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- American Holistic Nurses Credentialing Corporation (AHNCC) accredited
- $525 per credit
- Complete in Accelerated: 21 months | Part-time: 31 months
- 50 total credit hours
- Full-time and part-time options
- Starts fall/spring
- Synchronous online classes
- Prerequisite courses required
University of Northwestern-St Paul
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 4-Year program
- Complete in four-year BSN degree
- 125 total credit hours
- Full-time and part-time options
- Starts fall/spring
- Synchronous and asynchronous options
- 94% licensure pass rate
University of St Thomas
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- 4-Year program
- 131 total credit hours
- Starts fall
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
St. Cloud, MN
Rasmussen University-Minnesota
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: HESI
- $392 per credit
- 33-Month program
- 180 total credit hours
- Apply by 2026-08-12
- 8 start dates per year
Thief River Falls, MN
Northland Community and Technical College
- Associate - Nursing (A.S.)
Campus Based - Website
- 64 total credit hours
- Apply by 2026-10-01
- Full-time and part-time options
- Starts fall/spring
- LPN to RN bridge program
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Laptop required
- Free application
White Bear Lake, MN
Century College
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing Program
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- 4-Semester program
- 64 total credit hours
- Apply by 2026-10-01
- Full-time enrollment
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
Willmar, MN
Ridgewater College
- Associate - LPN to Nursing AS program
Concentration: LPN to RN - Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- $16,543 total program tuition
- 2-Semester program
- 64 total credit hours
- Apply by 2026-08-20
- Full-time and part-time options
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- Associate - Nursing - Associate Degree Program (RN)
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- $16,543 total program tuition
- 2-Year program
- 64 total credit hours
- Full-time enrollment
- 2 start dates per year
Winona, MN
Minnesota State College Southeast
- Associate - Associate of Science in Nursing Degree AS
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- 2 concentration options
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- $15,534 total program tuition
- 64 total credit hours
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 4-Year program
- Rolling admissions
- Cohort-based structure
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- 500 clinical hours
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
Winona State University
- Bachelor's - Nursing Major
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- 120 total credit hours
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- 91% licensure pass rate
- 96% job placement rate
- 550 clinical hours
- Prepares for NCLEX
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