2025 Best Online Nursing Programs in North Dakota
With our list of the best online nursing degrees in North Dakota for 2024, you can explore some of the top programs with strong NCLEX pass rates. Additionally, we've provided important steps for becoming a nurse in the state. For inclusion on our list, the colleges with the best online nursing degrees in North Dakota are based on the following criteria:
- The nursing school has a primary campus in North Dakota.
- The school offers an online bachelor's program in nursing or an online RN to BSN.
- The nursing school has publicly available NCLEX pass rate data for the baccalaureate degree level from the previous year.
- Either all or the vast majority of coursework is completed online. Many of the best online nursing programs still require some in-person clinical hours, internships, or practicums.
2025 Best Online Nursing Programs in North Dakota
| School | NCLEX Pass Rate | Online Enrollment |
|---|---|---|
| University of Jamestown | 100.0% | 182 |
| University of North Dakota | 97.0% | 4,511 |
Becoming a Nurse in North Dakota
The North Dakota Board of Nursing (NDBON) provides regulation and guidance for all types of nurses working in the state. The board also grants licensure for registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). Certified nurse aides (CNAs) are registered by the Division of Health Facilities.
The North Dakota Center for Nursing has indicated that North Dakota is suffering from a nurse staffing shortage. The population of the state is also expected to grow over the next several years, which means that the need for nurses will likewise increase. Obtaining an online master鈥檚 in nursing can also lead to increased nursing job opportunities. For these reasons, there has never been a better time to enroll in one of the best nursing schools in North Dakota.
To learn about online nursing programs and requirements in other states, explore our list of accredited nursing degrees by state below:
Nursing Degrees by State
- Alabama
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Virginia
- Washington
- Washington D.C.
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
How To Get CNA Certification in North Dakota
In North Dakota, CNAs are known as certified nurse aides. These medical professionals are registered by the North Dakota Department of Health's Division of Health Facilities, which operates under the purview of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. This agency has approved 57 that prepare prospective nurse aides with the education they need to become a CNA in North Dakota.
A candidate can be registered as a CNA in North Dakota after completing an approved CNA training program and passing the CNA competency exam. CNAs from other states can also be recognized by endorsement. But a reciprocal CNA registration is not guaranteed.
Candidates must submit their applications online or directly via email, fax, or mail. They are also required to disclose personally identifying information, such as any previous criminal charges, disciplinary incidents within the nursing field, and work history. Applicants must also identify the states in which they are registered to work as CNAs (if applicable). When this information has been evaluated by the North Dakota Department of Health, applicants may be granted equivalent licensure.
CNA Certification Renewal
CNA registration expires after two years and must be renewed. Candidates are reminded to renew via mail approximately two months before the date of expiration. There is to renew a certified nurse aide registration.
How To Get an LPN License in North Dakota
There are about 3,000 LPNs working in North Dakota. To join their ranks, an aspiring LPN can pursue licensure by examination or by endorsement.
Under licensure by examination, candidates must first graduate from an approved nursing program and provide official transcripts to the nursing board. The next step is to register for the National Council Licensure Examination for practical nurses (NCLEX-PN). Once their application is approved by the board, the candidate can take the NCLEX-PN exam. Upon receiving a passing score on this test, candidates will be issued an LPN license.
Nurses licensed in another state can also obtain a North Dakota LPN license by endorsement. This process requires candidates to first complete a nursing education program and acquire valid out-of-state licensure. If their education was not completed within the past four years, candidates for licensure by endorsement will also be required to demonstrate 400 hours of licensed nursing practice within the past four years. Before applying online, nurses will need to prepare official college transcripts and verify their current licensure.
Both pathways require applicants to submit a background check and fingerprint card.
LPN License Renewal
North Dakota LPN licenses expire after a period of two years. Renewal applications must be submitted directly to the nursing board. Renewing an active license costs . Nurses must also demonstrate that they have completed 12 contact hours of approved continuing education credits in order to qualify.
How To Get an RN License in North Dakota
There are three main ways to earn a North Dakota RN license.
- The most common method is to apply for licensure by examination. An application fee of $130 is required. Candidates must complete one of the state-approved Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs. Official college transcripts are required to demonstrate that this requirement has been met. Next, prospective RNs will need to register for the . Once their application is approved by the North Dakota Board of Nursing, prospective RNs can sit the NCLEX-RN. If they pass the exam, they will receive their RN license.
- RNs who are already licensed in another state can also apply for a North Dakota nursing license by endorsement. To be eligible, candidates must demonstrate that their nursing program included supervised clinical experience and sufficient preparation for working as an RN. Candidates must either have at least 400 hours of licensed nursing experience or they must have completed their education within the past four years. When these prerequisites are satisfied, applicants can apply for reciprocal licensure through the state's nursing board. Applicants must provide official college transcripts and verification of current licensure, and they must pay an application fee of $160.
- RNs can also practice in North Dakota if their nursing license was acquired in a state that participates in the . This multistate program permits nurses licensed in one participating state to practice at the same level in a second participating state.
RN License Renewal
North Dakota RN licenses expire after two years. Online renewal costs $140, and it's possible to renew from October 1 through December 31 each year. Nurses must contact the board directly to renew during other times of year.
How To Get an APRN License in North Dakota
The NDBON recognizes several different types of APRNs. It is possible for nurses to obtain a North Dakota nurse license to work as a nurse practitioner (NP), clinical nurse specialist (CNS), certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA), or certified nurse midwife (CNM). Each of these specializations has an examination and associated with it. These exams must be completed before the state will grant APRN licensure. A nurse seeking an APRN license must also have an active North Dakota RN license.
When a prospective APRN has earned a college degree and received the relevant national nursing certification, they will become eligible for an APRN license. But they must also meet certain continuing education requirements. For example, the board requires candidates to complete 30 hours of pharmacology study every three years. They also need to pass a criminal background check. The application fee for an APRN license is , but if one is seeking prescriptive authority, the total application fee amounts to $200.
APRN Renewal
APRN licenses in North Dakota must be renewed every two years. Renewal requirements for this type of licensure involve a minimum of 15 hours of education in pharmacology or pharmacotherapy. Academic courses, seminars, or approved correspondence may be sufficient to meet this requirement. Depending on the type of APRN license being renewed, applicants can expect to pay between $155 and $220.
FAQs About Online Nursing Programs in North Dakota
How Many Nursing Schools Are in North Dakota?
The Board of Nursing in ND lists as being fully approved on its website. Byt there may be more institutions that offer nursing programs in North Dakota.
How Long Is a Nursing Program in North Dakota?
It depends on which type of program you're pursuing. LPN certificates can take 6-12 months to complete, while a Doctor of Nursing Practice can last three or four years on top of many years of previous schooling.
How Long Does It Take To Become an RN in North Dakota?
It could take as little as two-and-a-half years. Graduates of two-year ADN programs are eligible to begin the licensure process in North Dakota. Depending on when they submit their NCLEX application, they may receive an RN license within a couple months of graduation.
How Do I Become a Nurse in North Dakota?
Individuals must graduate from an approved nursing program in North Dakota before applying for their license, taking the NCLEX, and submitting a background check.
Student Reviews of Online Nursing Programs
When I started my bachelor's degree in March of 2020 it was my goal to have it done in less than 9months. This was a huge factor as to why I chose Chamberlain. They helped me every step of the way and even rushed a few things to make my goal happen. I began this journey March 5, 2020 and will be graduating December 20, 2020. The classes were well structured and I gained a lot of insight from them that I can take into my future Master's program and, ultimately, my career.
Review Date: 12/5/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Aspen University's online degree program was excellent. While the class were challenging, and there were deadlines to meet each week, I really felt that I learned a lot of useful information. Instructors were easy to reach and representatives from admissions and billing were always available during business hours to help with all questions of payment and finance. I did have a rough time at first working through how the website worked and with submission of assignments. As a nurse returning to school... Read More
Review Date: 12/31/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
So far I am very unhappy with the Professors that Grand Canyon has hired to do their nursing program. In the online program you feel like you are on an island by yourself. The Professor is missing in action and does not care about you or your needs. It has been an awful experience. The face that it is very expensive makes it even worse. I wish I had read the reviews of this school before I signed up. I definitely would not recommend it at this point. The Professor I have right now is an absolute... Read More
Review Date: 4/17/2016
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Got my bsn degree 4 yrs ago and i strongly recommend their program if ure working full time, with kids (or not) and considering doing online. My advisers and profs were always reachable and approachable. Paperworks and required readings can be indeed demanding but that how it should be anyway.
Review Date: 5/21/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Chamberlain has been wonderful in helping me succeed so far. The staff at Chamberlain are willing to go above and beyond to help in any way that they can. I feel like this transition and new way of life as we know it right now has been difficult for everyone to say the least, but they have done everything they can to make it as smooth as possible. Having already been in the medical field as a medical assistant for several years, I can say that they do a good job in providing you with the skills that... Read More
Review Date: 11/23/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The advantage is that they provide a 4 year degree that allows you to become a professional starting at entry level for second degree students. The the disadvantage is that it is very accelerated and keeps you very busy and you can't work. Therefore, you must be financially prepared for 4 years.
Review Date: 7/16/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
This school is great. So happy for my degree and love that it is all year round school. Nursing staff was amazing and made a huge impact on my choice is which field I want to go into. I like the small classroom sizes and getting to know your classmates and staff better.
Review Date: 9/22/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I attended Grand Canyon University because of the high regards from many former students and the positive reputation for their nursing program. I chose GCU because it was a bachelor's degree program and I knew that in the future I would need that degree as many healthcare organizations are now requiring nurses to obtain their BSN rather than and ADN. I attended a satellite campus, and I appreciated the close proximity to my house. I was not thrilled with the instructors and changes that took place... Read More
Review Date: 8/5/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
If you had any sliver of intellect, you would avoid this program. Anticipate being treated as school children. Your time is invaluable to them. The clinical coordinator is embarrassingly and notoriously unorganized. She'll email you about changes to your clinicals the day of at 3am. Many professors are harsh and unapologetic about their numerous mistakes that you have to suffer. Several make this program a living hell. They are unaccommodating, unintelligent, authoritative, and demeaning. Many will... Read More
Review Date: 12/12/2023
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I am a current student of Chamberlain University, North Brunswick, NJ. I am set to graduate this summer! I truly recommend this school to anyone who is ready to put in the work to be successful. This is an accelerated program with 8 weeks sessions, it can be overwhelming. It鈥檚 certainly not for everyone. There are tons of resources both on and off campus. Most of the professors are doctorate level prepared nurses with lots of hands on experience under their belts and they are willing to pass it on.... Read More
Review Date: 3/14/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Beckfield is a great school focusing on Nursing. Every class you take revolves around nursing so it makes it easier to stay focused. The people and professors truly care about your success. When you have classes that specifically revolves around nursing it helps you to stay on track. I came from a University and I like Beckfield so much better.
Review Date: 5/8/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I was pleased with my experience with the school and my education. the staff and faculty was amazing and I am forever grateful to them. I was welcomed and felt prepared upon graduation. I look forward to going out into the work force and as a nurse after my time at Herzing Brookfield
Review Date: 9/22/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
NYU was a great university that had a great number of resources. The College of Nursing specifically was a great community and the professors were very passionate, intelligent, and dedicated. At a university like this, it is important to be independent and work hard.
Review Date: 9/12/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I enjoyed Cleveland State University due to its diversity of students and student activities. CSU also has partnerships with hospitals in the area which makes it easy to find employment. The only issue I had were that my graduating class basically were guinea pigs for the new curriculum. Hopefully our input improved the program even more!
Review Date: 3/26/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
This place is a joke!! For a school that focuses mainly on healthcare education, the staff and school lack integrity. It is overly expensive and they lie about the schedule. The Dean scheduled the classes for the entire day everyday, which conflicted with family time and work. Then instead of working with the students to remedy the situation she would say get out of her office end of discussion as if she's dealing with minors. I only passed because I was determined and already invested time and money.... Read More
Review Date: 6/3/2015
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
My school was great! There are some things I would have done differently, but UAH provided a great experience overall.
Review Date: 8/5/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Union College provided me with an education based on strong values and personal growth. The professors treated me as a whole person and took time to ensure I understood the material. The student body was supportive and passionate about serving others. I came away from my undergraduate experience there feeling uplifted and energized. Union College has shaped the way I love and care for my patients by giving me the love and care I needed at such a vulnerable point in my life.
Review Date: 3/17/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Saint Mary's offers women a great learning environment, one that fosters not only learning in the classroom, but also learning in your field, community, and abroad. Saint Mary's teaches women to be strong, independent, well rounded individuals.
Review Date: 5/31/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Excellent university with excellent professors. I would highly recommend this college to students that wish to major in Nursing.
Review Date: 8/4/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
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