Best Nursing Schools in North Dakota

Dickinson State University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a four-year, campus-based program designed to prepare students for registered nursing careers. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning through classroom instruction, laboratory practice, and clinical experiences, building professional readiness and compassionate patient care. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and can pursue careers in hospitals, clinics, and specialized nursing fields. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) through Fall 2029 and approved by the North Dakota Board of Nursing. Applications are accepted annually from August 1 to October 15. DSU's BSN offers a streamlined pathway from admission to graduation, with dedicated faculty and student support services. Whether you are starting your nursing journey or advancing your career, this program provides the foundation for a meaningful impact in community health and patient care.

• Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
• 4-Year program
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• ACEN accredited through Fall 2029
• Application window August 1 to October 15
• Career paths in hospitals, clinics, specialized nursing
• Traditional RN program for registered nurse credentials
• Classroom learning, lab experience, clinical preparation

The University of Mary's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, offered on campus in Bismarck, ND, prepares you for a rewarding career as a registered nurse. You'll develop critical thinking and communication skills while learning to provide frontline care as part of an interdisciplinary health team. Hands-on practice in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and acute care settings ensures you're ready for the NCLEX-RN. The program is accredited by the CCNE and consistently ranks among the nation's best for NCLEX pass rates. All students receive generous financial support, including the Sanford Health Directors Award and the tuition-free Nursing Academy for top freshmen. With early-assured admission and pathways for LPNs and RNs, this program offers flexibility and strong career outcomes.

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Generous scholarships available
• Clinical experience in varied settings
• CCNE accredited program
• Early-assured admission option
• Tuition-free Nursing Academy
• Sanford Health Directors Award

The Associate Degree Nurse (AAS) program at Dakota College at Bottineau prepares you for a rewarding career as a registered nurse. Through a blend of classroom instruction and clinical practice, you'll master the nursing process, patient assessment, and care across the lifespan. Core courses include maternal child nursing, alterations in health, and clinical application labs. You'll also study microbiology and developmental psychology. Graduates are eligible for the NCLEX-RN and can work in hospitals, clinics, long-term care, and community health. The program is part of the Dakota Nursing Program, a collaboration with three ND colleges, ensuring a broad educational network. Application deadlines are each spring, and admission requires a background check and minimum GPAs. With a focus on critical thinking and compassionate care, this program is your first step toward a fulfilling nursing career.

• Entrance exam required
• 2.5 GPA minimum
• Prerequisite courses required
• Prepares for NCLEX
• Part of Dakota Nursing Program collaboration
• Criminal background check required
• Applications due in spring annually
• Employment in acute care, long-term care, clinics
• Prerequisite courses: English, Psychology, Anatomy

Lake Region State College in North Dakota offers a hybrid Associate Degree Nurse (RN) program, preparing students for a rewarding career in nursing. This program combines classroom instruction with clinical practice, covering adult health, maternal child nursing, community health, and psychosocial nursing. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam for licensure. Prerequisites include CPR certification and LPN certificate or paramedic experience. The curriculum includes courses in microbiology, professional development, and clinical applications, ensuring a comprehensive education.

• 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.

The Associate Degree Nursing program at Bismarck State College prepares students for registered nurse licensure (NCLEX-RN). Part of the Dakota Nursing Program consortium, the curriculum blends on-campus and online learning through interactive video. Students gain hands-on experience in local clinical settings. The program follows a 1+1 structure: start with a Practical Nursing certificate and continue to the associate degree. Graduates work in hospitals, clinics, long-term care, and community health. Admission is selective and occurs once per year in fall. Applicants need a strong science background and must meet GPA requirements. Veteran and spouse priority is provided. With satellite sites across North Dakota, the program offers flexibility for rural students. Clinical partnerships ensure real-world training. The program is limited enrollment, so early application is essential.

• Entrance exam required
• Starts fall
• 2.5 GPA minimum
• Prerequisite courses required
• Prepares for NCLEX RN
• Military benefits accepted
• Part of Dakota Nursing Program consortium
• Interactive Video Network (IVN) delivery
• Offered at multiple satellite sites
• Priority service for veterans