In just two years, an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) program can prepare students for initial nursing licensure. North Dakota has two types of prelicensure associate’s degree programs: one for aspiring registered nurses (RNs) and one for aspiring licensed practical nurses (LPNs).
RN associate’s degree programs
North Dakota offers two distinct RN pathways: the two-year associate’s degree and the four-year bachelor’s degree. The associate’s degree pathway is the much faster route to initial licensure and nursing employment. Students complete four academic semesters, with coursework in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, chemistry, nutrition, psychology, and other social and behavioral sciences. All programs also include supervised clinical experience. Five North Dakota schools offer an RN associate’s degree; the largest programs are conducted at Williston State College and North Dakota State College of Science.
Many of North Dakota’s LPNs pursue licensure through a 12- to 18-month certificate program. However, several schools offer a deeper associate’s degree in practical nursing. The associate’s degree program complements the core LPN curriculum with general psychology, communications, and humanities courses. Five North Dakota schools offer an LPN associate’s degree; the largest programs are conducted at Dickinson State University and North Dakota State College of Science.
North Dakota’s nursing industry
The employment outlook for North Dakota’s nurses is excellent. The state’s LPNs earn a median annual income of $39,040, while its RNs receive about $55,400 in annual pay. Strong performers in each profession can earn over $44,000 and $62,000 per year, respectively. Major nursing employers exist across the state, from the Department of Veterans Affairs in Fargo to St. Alexius Medical Center in Bismarck.
With employment opportunities growing much faster than average, now is an excellent time to pursue a career as an RN or LPN. You can use our comprehensive list below of North Dakota associate’s degree programs to get started.