Licensed practical nursing provides an excellent point of entry into nursing. It promises financial and job stability, after just 12 months of training, and sets the foundation for further study to become a registered nurse when your schedule allows. Despite contrary reports, LPNs are in demand, especially in long term care where the baby boomer generation have increased demands for medical and rehabilitative care. As thousands of nurses in the current workforce approach retirement, they will leave job openings in their wake, providing countless opportunities for new nurses. The proliferation of LPN programs in Bismarck, ND and across the country is evidence that the profession is here to stay. After completing the one-year program and passing the NCLEX-PN exam, licensed practical nurses can begin practicing in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and community clinics.
Bismarck State College
The nursing program at Bismarck State College is a collaborative effort of BSC with Lake Region State College, Williston State College, and Dakota College at Bottineau. There are several exit options for state certification, including CNA certification and LPN licensure. Students have the option to progress to the final stage, which leads to licensure as a Registered Nurse after successful completion of the NCLEX-RN. Enrollment in the program is competitive, so the school’s administration would make a final decision to enroll based on candidate interviews. Students will earn a Certificate in Practical Nursing after 11 months and must maintain a GPA of 2.75 or more to advance to the second year to earn an Associate’s Degree in Nursing. Prerequisites for entry into the program include a high school diploma, admission to Bismarck State College, current CPR certification, proof of math readiness, a GPA of 2.0 or above in science courses, a passing score on the TEAS test, and an FBI background check. Students earn 42 credits after completing the 3-semester program. Courses include anatomy and physiology, practical nursing, foundations of nursing, developmental psychology, introduction to pharmacology, college composition, maternal-child nursing, medical-surgical nursing, and clinical practice. Classroom instruction takes place on campus and through Interactive Video Network from distant sites. Tuition for the 11-month program is $6,904 plus $2,600 for books and supplies.
- Website: https://www.bismarckstate.edu/
- Address: PO Box 5587, Bismarck, ND 58506-5587
- Phone: (800) 445-5073
- NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 100%
Sitting Bull College (ASPN)
The Practical Nursing Program at Sitting Bull College culminates with an Associate’s Degree for successful students. Requirements for entry into the 71-credit program include a high school diploma, proof of current CPR certification, a completed application to the nursing division, a C or above in prerequisite courses, documentation of immunization status, and a criminal background check. Courses in the general education track include nutrition, speech, introduction to psychology, intermediate algebra, English composition, anatomy and physiology, and transitions. The core nursing courses include microbiology, child and adolescent psychology, nursing care of families, fundamental nursing interventions, mental health, behavioral health nursing, basic pharmacology for nurses, holistic health assessment across the lifespan, and a capstone experience in nursing. Tuition is $1,800 per semester (12 credits) plus fees for textbooks, supplies, lab fees, and student fees.
- Website: http://sittingbull.edu/nursing/
- Address: 9929 Highway 24, Fort Yates, ND 58538
- Phone: (701) 854-8053
- Fax: (701) 854-3403
- Email: info@sittingbull.edu
Crystal is a certified Registered Nurse (RN) with a passion for writing about nursing education. Through her articles, Crystal shares insights and tips to help fellow nurses enhance their skills and stay updated with the latest developments in the field. With a focus on practical advice and relevant topics, Crystal's writing is a valuable resource for nursing professionals seeking to advance their careers.