The state of Minnesota is home to approximately 3,300 nurse practitioners (NPs), 60,000 registered nurses (RNs), 18,000 licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and 32,000 certified nursing assistants (CNAs). Each nursing role carries distinct educational and licensing requirements.
To become an NP, you must hold a registered nursing license and complete a master of science in nursing (MSN) or doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degree program. Certification in your chosen specialty area is also required. NPs can specialize in a broad range of healthcare fields including geriatric, women's, neonatal, family, pediatric, adult, acute, and occupational health.
RNs typically hold an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). A license is also required to practice in all fifty states. Both BSN and MSN programs are offered at National American University’s Bloomington campus. LPNs must complete an accredited certificate or associate’s degree program and obtain a license. CNAs must finish a brief training program and pass a certification test. Normandale Community College in Bloomington offers a nursing assistant program that qualifies students to take the Minnesota Nursing Assistant Registry exam, administered by Pearson VUE.
Program completion and state licensure are both required because each role necessitates a specific skill set. For example, NPs prescribe medications, diagnose and treat illnesses, order diagnostic tests, administer physical exams, and perform medical procedures including biopsies, cryotherapy, and casting. Many NPs work in primary and acute care settings.
RNs perform a range of primary care duties such as administering treatments and medications, evaluating diagnostic tests, supervising junior healthcare personnel, and educating patients and the public about medical conditions. LPNs care for the sick, injured, convalescent, and disabled under the supervision of RNs, surgeons, and physicians. CNAs provide hands-on care and perform routine tasks under the supervision of senior nursing and medical staff.
Graduates of accredited nursing schools in Bloomington, Minnesota, are prepared to seek employment at top metro area hospitals such as Abbot Northwestern Hospital, Fairview Southdale Hospital, United Hospital of St. Paul, and Minneapolis VA Health Care System. Local nursing salaries are quite competitive. Bloomington NPs earn $105,620 per year on average, and strong performers can earn over $130,000 annually. Local RNs earn an average of $76,960, LPNs earn an average of $44,560, and CNAs earn an average of $30,850 in annual salary.
If you’re ready to launch your nursing career, our list of accredited nursing schools and programs in Bloomington, Minnesota, can help you get started.