community colleges in minnesota for nursing
Last Updated on August 12, 2023 by Oluwajuwon Alvina
Selecting the best nursing school in Minnesota can be difficult. To make the process easier first look for a school that supports students towards licensure and beyond. A great way to measure this is through NCLEX-RN “pass rates.” We have ranked the top 20 nursing schools in Minnesota by analyzing current and historical NCLEX-RN “pass rates”, meaning the percentage of graduates who pass the exam, out of the 44 RN programs in the state. Programs reviewed include schools that offer an Associate in Nursing (ADN/ASN), BSN, or Direct-Entry MSN Degree.
Minnesota is fostering the move toward a higher standard of patient care by encouraging advanced nursing degrees and professional development for registered nurses. In fact, the growth in the job market is estimated to require thousands of new, qualified nurses in the coming years. Educational opportunities abound in the state for both new nursing students, as well as registered nurses (RNs) looking to advance their careers. With the Bureau of Labor Statistics reporting the average RN salary at just over $80,000 in Minnesota, it’s easy to see why it’s gaining popularity as a lucrative and rewarding career choice.
For RN bridge programs visit:
- RN to BSN Programs in Minnesota
- RN to MSN Programs in Minnesota
ADN Programs in Minnesota
An Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) program prepares graduates to provide quality, patient-centered care in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and care facilities. This 2-year program is commonly offered at smaller institutions such as community and/or technical colleges. Many students choose this route to their RN license because it is relatively quick and tends to be less expensive than other options.
ADN Program Admission Requirements in Minnesota
Entrance requirements will vary from school to school and are subject to change, so review your school of choice’s particular requirements before applying. Below is a sampling of the types of requirements that ADN programs in the state can have:
- Completion of ATI TEAS exam with a score of 420 or above
- Completion of all prerequisite courses
- Cumulative GPA of 3.0
Tuition and Costs of ADN Programs in Minnesota
The cost of your ADN degree can give you sticker shock at first, but consider the fact that the median wage for registered nurses in Minnesota is a bit higher than the national average. In general, you’ll need to pay for tuition along with any mandatory fees, and don’t forget to factor in indirect costs such as textbooks and transportation. Most schools have financial aid departments that can help if you are worried about being able to pay for your preferred program.
For example, the estimated total tuition and fees for the ADN program at Lake Superior College in Duluth is $16,000 for both Minnesota residents and out-of-state residents.
