Nursing

Note:

• Students should consult their faculty advisor for electives to enhance their program of study and to meet graduation requirements.
• Computer proficiency is expected before beginning the nursing major.
• Disclaimer: The recommended curriculum is subject to change based on nursing program development. Students must consult with their nursing advisor to facilitate progression in the program.

Advancing to a BSN from an LPN or RN

NDSU offers two tracks for nurses who are licensed as either a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or a registered nurse (RN).

The NDSU School of Nursing offers individual, personalized advising to all students prior to and once accepted in the professional programs. NDSU accepts courses from Regional Accredited Colleges and Universities.

LPN to BSN

The LPN to BSN program is designed for a licensed practical nurse (LPN) seeking to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Graduates are then eligible to apply for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to become a Registered Nurse (RN). Coursework in the professional program is completed on a part-time basis (approx. 6 nursing credits a semester) over the length of two years (including summers). Courses are delivered online with clinical work completed in a variety of Fargo locations during the summer semesters. The curriculum builds on students' prior knowledge to develop critical thinking, theoretical knowledge, leadership, and growth in the RN professional role. 

Admission Requirements for LPN-BSN

1. Completion of the NLN NACE (RN-BSN) Exams are required prior to applying to the professional program.
2. Admission to NDSU (it is recommended the application be submitted by Sept. 1st for spring start). Note: Admission to NDSU is not required to complete the validation exams (NACE exams).
3. Completed Application, which is sent to students after passing the NACE exams. Application deadline: Oct. 15th.
4. Professional Nursing Program Requirements
   1. NLN NACE exams must be completed with passing score prior to applying to the professional program.
   2. Graduate with a Diploma or Certificate in Nursing or an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing.
   3. Cumulative GPA of a 2.75 or greater and a Nursing GPA of 3.0 or greater.
   4. The completion of the following courses with a "C" or higher:
      • Biology 220/2201 & 221/2211: Anatomy and Physiology I and II with lab
      • Microbiology 202/202L: Introduction to Microbiology
      • English 120: College Composition II
      • Communications 110: Fundamentals of Public Speaking
      • Psychology 250: Developmental Psychology
      • Sociology 110: Introduction to Sociology
5. Current unencumbered nursing license as a Licensed Practical Nurse or must be able to obtain license by May and will be admitted on probation pending licensure.

RN TO BSN

The RN to BSN program is designed for registered nurses who want to advance to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The two-year one hundred percent online program is geared for part-time students. Coursework focuses on the current health care system/environment, quality and safety, evidence-based practice, population-focused nursing, leadership and chronic health issues. The program is intended to educate nurses to practice with a transformed perspective, having a better understanding of themselves and the complex environment in which nurse’s work.

Admission Requirements for RN-BSN

1. Admission to NDSU.
2. Completion of an associate of science in nursing or an associate of applied science in nursing.
3. Current unencumbered nurse license (RN).
4. Cumulative GPA of 2.75.
5. Transcripts from all post-secondary schools attended.
6. Completed School of Nursing application including personal statement and background check.
7. Interview upon request. 

Demonstrated Competency Credits for RN-BSN

• 18 demonstrated competency credits will be awarded upon completion of the first semester to students who have earned an Associates of Applied Science Degree.
• 25 demonstrated competency credits will be awarded upon completion of the first semester to students who have earned an Associates of Science Degree.

The NDSU Online/Blended Accelerated (Post-Baccalaureate) BSN Nursing Program offers an opportunity to quickly build a path to a nursing degree. The Accelerated (Post-Baccalaureate) BSN Program is offered through the NDSU School of Nursing at Sanford Health site in Bismarck, North Dakota. Through this program, students build upon their prior bachelor’s or graduate degree to accelerate into an in-demand opportunity in nursing.

The program will prepare students to become highly-skilled, compassionate nurses, and assist in meeting statewide healthcare workforce needs. The blended program includes in-person classes, with some online classes. Students are expected to attend all lab and clinical experiences in person.

Admission Requirements for Accelerated (Post Baccalaureate) BSN

1. Apply and be admitted to North Dakota State University (NDSU) or currently be an NDSU student.
2. Have a baccalaureate or graduate degree in a non-nursing major from a U.S. regionally accredited college or university. The degree must be completed and verified via official transcript(s) prior to enrollment in the program.
3. Cumulative GPA of a 2.75 or greater.
4. Complete the Accelerated (Post-Baccalaureate) BSN application.
5. Complete a Criminal Background Check (See College of Health Professions Policy 3.08).
   1. Fee paid by applicant via the school designated vendor.

For more information go to: https://www.ndsu.edu/nursing/degrees/accelerated_bsn/standard_accel_admit/

Sample Program Guide

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: This guide is not an official curriculum. This guide is a sample four-year degree plan of how students might plan this major with other degree requirements to complete their education in four years.Student plans will vary from this sample due to a variety of factors, such as, but not limited to, start year, education goals, transfer credit, and course availability. To ensure proper degree completion, enrolled students should utilize Degree Map and Schedule Planner in Campus Connection and consult regularly with academic advisors to ensure graduation requirements are being met.  

Plan of Study: Pre-Licensure Fall Start Professional Program

Pre-Licensure Spring Start Professional Program

Sample Program Guide

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: This guide is not an official curriculum. This guide is a sample four-year degree plan of how students might plan this major with other degree requirements to complete their education in four years.Student plans will vary from this sample due to a variety of factors, such as, but not limited to, start year, education goals, transfer credit, and course availability. To ensure proper degree completion, enrolled students should utilize Degree Map and Schedule Planner in Campus Connection and consult regularly with academic advisors to ensure graduation requirements are being met.  

 LPN to BSN Program

• PN Program Transfer Credits = 40-60 credits
• Total Credits for a degree must = 120
• Nursing Validation (17 credits): NURS 362 Family Nursing II, NURS 352 Family Nursing I, NURS 402 Mental Health Nursing, NURS 403 Adult Health Nursing II

Sample Program Guide

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: This guide is not an official curriculum. This guide is a sample four-year degree plan of how students might plan this major with other degree requirements to complete their education in four years.Student plans will vary from this sample due to a variety of factors, such as, but not limited to, start year, education goals, transfer credit, and course availability. To ensure proper degree completion, enrolled students should utilize Degree Map and Schedule Planner in Campus Connection and consult regularly with academic advisors to ensure graduation requirements are being met.  

 RN to BSN Program

• Total Credits for a degree = 120
• RN Program Transfer Credits = approximately 60 credits
• 60 credits toward degree must be earned from a four-year degree granting institution
  • Competency credits will count toward this requirement
• Demonstrated Competency Credits = 18 with an earned Associates of Applied Science OR 25 with an Associate of Science

Sample Program Guide

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: This guide is not an official curriculum. This guide is a sample four-year degree plan of how students might plan this major with other degree requirements to complete their education in four years.Student plans will vary from this sample due to a variety of factors, such as, but not limited to, start year, education goals, transfer credit, and course availability. To ensure proper degree completion, enrolled students should utilize Degree Map and Schedule Planner in Campus Connection and consult regularly with academic advisors to ensure graduation requirements are being met.  

Accelerated BSN

This program is for those who have completed a non-nursing bachelor's degree or have completed a graduate degree.