Nursing < North Dakota State University

North Dakota State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. The professional program is offered at the NDSU Fargo site and NDSU Nursing at Sanford Health in Bismarck. Graduates are eligible to apply for the national licensing examination (NCLEX) to become a registered nurse (RN). The program is fully accredited by the Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the North Dakota Board of Nursing.

The Program

The mission of the School of Nursing is to advance nursing knowledge and develop dynamic nurse leaders who improve the health of all people, emphasizing underserved, rural, and diverse populations. The nursing curriculum prepares professional nurses by providing a sound educational base for practice, graduate study, professional development, and professional and civic responsibility. The nursing program serves as a resource for society through consultation, collaboration, advocacy, and scholarship.

Career Opportunities

Rapid changes in health care and technology require the nursing profession to continually expand its role. Employment forecasts predict an increasing demand for professional nurses. Career opportunities for a nurse with a BSN include positions in hospitals, schools, community agencies, the military, insurance companies, nursing homes, clinics, businesses, and research settings. Graduates are prepared to work in a variety of settings that demand critical thinking, autonomy, collaboration, and accountability. A four-year BSN degree offers an array of career options and opportunities for career advancement.

Extra-Curricular Activities

Numerous active student organizations are available at NDSU, including Student Nurses Association chapters in Bismarck and Fargo. Nursing students are strongly encouraged to participate in campus activities because they provide opportunities for teamwork, leadership, service, and enjoyment.

Scholarships

Information on scholarships for students admitted to the major is available from the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships and the School of Nursing. Information on first year or transfer student scholarships is available from the Office of Admission.

The Faculty and Facilities

The NDSU BSN program is offered at two locations: the NDSU Fargo site and NDSU Nursing at Sanford Health in Bismarck. At the NDSU Fargo site, students will find faculty offices and state-of-the art, hands-on nursing education labs in the six-story Aldevron Tower. Additional classrooms are found in Sudro Hall, connected to Aldevron Tower. In Bismarck, the School of Nursing is conveniently located across the street from Sanford Health. The School houses faculty offices, classrooms, and fully equipped skills and health assessment labs, as well as an advanced simulation center to enhance student learning. The Fargo-Moorhead and Bismarck communities provide a rich source of health care facilities, which are utilized by the nursing program. The faculty members are experts in specialized clinical practice areas and assist students with learning in the classroom, laboratory, and clinical settings.

Advising

The School of Nursing is part of the College of Health Professions. Pre-nursing advising is available for all students prior to acceptance into the professional program. Each nursing student admitted to the professional program is assigned a nursing faculty advisor who is available for academic guidance, assistance, and career planning. Students are strongly encouraged to seek the assistance of their advisor early in their plan of study and maintain contact on a regular basis.

Transfer

The pre-professional courses may be completed at NDSU or at another regionally accredited college or university. Transfer students are encouraged to contact a pre-nursing advisor early to discuss course selection and transferability. The pre-licensure professional program, which takes three years to complete, must be taken in sequence and cannot be accelerated due to clinical placements.The LPN-BSN and RN-BSN program, which will take two years to complete, must be taken in sequence and cannot be accelerated.

Admission to the Pre-Licensure Program

Direct Admission

Direct admission is offered to high school seniors who have demonstrated exemplary academic performance. Direct admission is available at both the Bismarck and Fargo sites. Applications are due February 1st. If offered direct admission, students will complete the freshman year prerequisite courses. Students must maintain established progression criteria during their first year of coursework. If program criteria is met, students begin the professional nursing program in their second year. Students not admitted through direct admission, or who do not maintain progression requirements, can apply through the standard admission process. Additional information as well as the admission application can be found at https://www.ndsu.edu/nursing/degrees/pre_licensure_bsn_track/direct_admin/.

Standard Admission

The School of Nursing in Bismarck accepts applications and admits students for both fall and spring semesters. On the Fargo site, applications are accepted once per year for students starting the program in both fall and spring. To be eligible for application, students must meet the following requirements: 1) a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.75* on all college level work, and 2) completion of the prerequisite courses with a grade of “C” or higher. The application deadlines and online application are posted on the School of Nursing website (https://www.ndsu.edu/nursing/degrees/pre_licensure_bsn_track/admission/). Admission is competitive and involves a holistic review process. The holistic review considers a student’s life experiences, personal qualities, and attributes, as well as traditional measures such as GPA. Students are encouraged to consult with the pre-nursing advisor at their preferred site prior to the application deadline. *Because of limitations on class size, the typical student admitted to the nursing program has a selective GPA higher than 2.75.

Selected Prerequisite Courses

The selected GPA is calculated based on grades in the following prerequisite courses. (Applicants may have prerequisite courses in progress at the time of application.)

Communication 110: Fundamentals of Public Speaking
English 120: College Composition II
Psychology 111: Introduction to Psychology
Sociology 110: Introduction to Sociology or Anthropology 111: Introduction to Anthropology

A minimum of 8 credits in the science category (preference will be given to those students who have completed 11 credits or more.)

Biology 220/220L: Human Anatomy and Physiology I/Lab
Biology 221/ 221L: Human Anatomy and Physiology II/Lab
Biochemistry 260: Elements of Biochemistry
Chemistry 117/117L: Chemistry Concepts and Applications/Lab
Microbiology 202/202L: Introductory Microbiology/Lab

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

Completion of the NLN NACE (RN-BSN) Exams are required prior to applying to the professional program.
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).
Completed Application, which is sent to students after passing the NACE exams. Application deadline: Oct. 15th.
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
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

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

Sample Program Guide

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: A Sample Program Guide provides an unofficial guide of program requirements and should be used by prospective students who are considering attending NDSU in the future. It is NOT an official curriculum and should NOT be used by current NDSU students for official degree planning purposes. Note that the official curriculum used by current NDSU students can vary from the Sample Program Guide due to a variety of factors such as, but not limited to, start year, education goals, transfer credit, and course availability.

To ensure proper program completion, enrolled students should utilize Degree Map and Schedule Planner in Campus Connection and consult regularly with their academic advisor to ensure requirements are being met.

Plan of Study: Pre-Licensure Fall Start Professional Program

Freshman
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
ENGL 110	3	ENGL 120	3
CHEM 117	3	BIOC 260	4
CHEM 117L	1	COMM 110	3
SOC 110 or ANTH 111	3	PSYC 111	3
PHIL 257	3	MICR 202	2
NURS 150	1	MICR 202L	1
	14		16
Sophomore
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
BIOL 220	3	BIOL 221	3
BIOL 220L	1	BIOL 221L	1
PSYC 250	3	HNES 250	3
NURS 301	3	NURS 321	2
NURS 306	2	NURS 322	2
Cultural Diveristy (D) Elective	3	NURS 360	4
	15		15
Junior
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
ENGL 325	3	NURS 352	4
NURS 341	3	NURS 362	4
NURS 342	5	NURS 382	1
NURS 300	4	CHP 400	3
		Global Persepective (G)	3
	15		15
Senior
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
NURS 402	4	NURS 404	4
NURS 403	5	NURS 406	4
NURS 410	2	NURS 450	4
NURS 460	3	Humanities & Fine Arts (A)	3
Humanities & Fine Arts (A)	3
	17		15
Total Credits: 122

Pre-Licensure Spring Start Professional Program

First Year
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
ENGL 110	3	ENGL 120	3
NURS 150	1	COMM 110	3
CHEM 117	3	MICR 202	2
CHEM 117L	1	MICR 202L	1
SOC 110 or ANTH 111	3	PSYC 111	3
PHIL 257	3	BIOC 260	4
	14		16
Second Year
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
BIOL 220	3	NURS 301	3
BIOL 220L	1	NURS 306	2
PSYC 250	3	BIOL 221	3
Elective	3	BIOL 221L	1
Cultural Diversity (D)	3	HNES 250	3
		Humanities & Fine Arts (A)	3
	13		15
Third Year
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
NURS 321	2	ENGL 325	3
NURS 322	2	NURS 341	3
NURS 360	4	NURS 342	5
Humanities & Fine Arts (A)	3	NURS 300	4
Global Perspective (G)	3
	14		15
Fourth Year
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
NURS 352	4	NURS 402	4
NURS 362	4	NURS 403	5
NURS 382	1	NURS 410	2
CHP 400	3	NURS 460	3
	12		14
Fifth Year
Fall	Credits
NURS 404	4
NURS 406	4
NURS 450	4
	12
Total Credits: 125

Sample Program Guide

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

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: A Sample Program Guide provides an unofficial guide of program requirements and should be used by prospective students who are considering attending NDSU in the future. It is NOT an official curriculum and should NOT be used by current NDSU students for official degree planning purposes. Note that the official curriculum used by current NDSU students can vary from the Sample Program Guide due to a variety of factors such as, but not limited to, start year, education goals, transfer credit, and course availability.

To ensure proper program completion, enrolled students should utilize Degree Map and Schedule Planner in Campus Connection and consult regularly with their academic advisor to ensure requirements are being met.

Second Year
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
BIOL 220	3	BIOL 221	3
BIOL 220L	1	BIOL 221L	1
PSYC 250	3	SOC 110	3
Humanities/Fine Arts & Global Perspectives	3	Humanities/Fine Arts & Cultural Diversity	3
	10		10
Third Year
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits	Summer	Credits
CHEM 117	3	NURS 305	3	NURS 406	4
CHEM 117L	1	NURS 360	4	ENGL 325	3
MICR 202	2	BIOC 260	4	NURS 420	3
MICR 202L	1
	7		11		10
Fourth Year
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits	Summer	Credits
NURS 372	2	NURS 407	3	NURS 407L	3
NURS 374	2	NURS 460	3	CHP 400	3
NURS 405	2			HNES 250	3
PSYC 111	3
	9		6		9
Fifth Year
Fall	Credits
NURS 450	4
	4
Total Credits: 76

Sample Program Guide

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

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: A Sample Program Guide provides an unofficial guide of program requirements and should be used by prospective students who are considering attending NDSU in the future. It is NOT an official curriculum and should NOT be used by current NDSU students for official degree planning purposes. Note that the official curriculum used by current NDSU students can vary from the Sample Program Guide due to a variety of factors such as, but not limited to, start year, education goals, transfer credit, and course availability.

To ensure proper program completion, enrolled students should utilize Degree Map and Schedule Planner in Campus Connection and consult regularly with their academic advisor to ensure requirements are being met.

First Year
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
NURS 326	1	NURS 346	1
NURS 356	3	NURS 366	3
NURS 420	3	NURS 386	3
	7		7
Second Year
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
NURS 426	1	NURS 456	1
NURS 446	3	NURS 462	3
NURS 446L	1	NURS 462L	1
ENGL 325	3	NURS 478	3
	8		8
Total Credits: 30

Sample Program Guide

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

First Year
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits	Summer	Credits
NURS 300	4	NURS 342	5	NURS 402	4
NURS 303	3	NURS 352	4	NURS 406	4
NURS 323	4	NURS 362	4	NURS 430	2
NURS 360	4	NURS 463	4
NURS 420	3
	18		17		10
Second Year
Fall	Credits
NURS 450	4
	4
Total Credits: 49

University Catalog 2023-24

Nursing

Advancing to a BSN from an LPN or RN

LPN to BSN

Admission Requirements for LPN-BSN

RN TO BSN

Admission Requirements for RN-BSN

Demonstrated Competency Credits for RN-BSN

Sample Program Guide

Plan of Study: Pre-Licensure Fall Start Professional Program

Pre-Licensure Spring Start Professional Program

Sample Program Guide

LPN to BSN Program

Sample Program Guide

RN to BSN Program