*The baccalaureate degree program in nursing at Northern State University is pursuing program approval by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) (https://www.hlcommission.org). The baccalaureate degree program in nursing is anticipated for Fall 2025 with prerequisite courses starting now.

What is a BSN degree?

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a four-year undergraduate degree that prepares students for a career as a registered nurse (RN). The program combines classroom learning with hands-on clinical experience, simulation, and lab. After successful completion of the program, graduating students are eligible to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to enter into entry level practice.

I heard that RN's can practice with a Bachelor's or Associates Degree. What is the advantage of a BSN?

Although graduates of associate degree programs are qualified to provide direct patient care, a BSN opens doors to more nursing positions and ultimately more career options and earning potential. Many job postings for nursing positions now list the BSN as a preference, if not a requirement.

Additionally, organizations such as the American Nurses Association are now recognizing the BSN as the minimum educational requirement for professional nursing. Many hospitals are requiring ADNs to go back to school to earn their Bachelor’s degree. Furthermore, BSN RNs are also prepared for roles in research, leadership, or management. Nurses hoping to advance their careers (such as nurse practitioner) will need a BSN degree to continue on in their graduate work.

What are the admission requirements for the BSN program?

A student must first be admitted to NSU. Students may enter the nursing program as a Direct or Standard Admission.  See course requirements and admission requirements for more detail. Following completion of coursework, students entering in the Standard Admission pathway are invited to apply to the program, while the Direct Admission student is considered an automatic acceptance as long as they have completed the requirements.  

How long does it take to complete the BSN program? 

A traditional BSN program usually takes four years to complete. However, some students are admitted to NSU with dual credits or AP credits, which can accelerate the time to completion.  NSU’s BSN nursing coursework is completed over five traditional semesters, with approximately three semesters of prerequisite requirements. 

What courses are included in the BSN curriculum? 

The BSN curriculum includes a mix of general education courses, nursing theory, and clinical practice. Courses may include anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing ethics, patient care, and leadership in nursing. The curriculum is focused on preparing the student for generalist practice, with additional education in specialty areas such as obstetrics, pediatrics, critical care, and mental health.  

What kind of clinical experience can I expect during the program? 

The BSN program includes supervised clinical rotations in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Students gain hands-on experience in different nursing specialties, such as gerontology, medical/surgical care, pediatrics, obstetrics, and mental health.  

What are the career opportunities after completing a BSN program

Graduates of the BSN program are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed as registered nurses. RNs can work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, schools, and community health centers. BSN-prepared nurses may also have opportunities for advancement into leadership, management, and advanced practice roles.

Is financial aid available for the BSN program? 

NSU offers financial aid options for BSN students, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. Students should contact the Northern's financial aid office for more information and assistance with the application process.

Can I participate in athletics and other activities if I am a nursing major? 

Yes. Many NSU students are athletes, and we encourage our nursing students to take advantage of these and other extracurricular opportunities at the university.

What options are available if I already work as an LPN? 

LPN’s who wish to advance their education and career by earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree are welcome to explore this option with the LPN to BSN bridge program. Our advisors will look at your previous coursework and grant credit for nursing courses and other general education courses. LPNs must hold an unencumbered LPN license at the time of program start. Apply to NSU and get your transcript review started today.

Where are classes held? 

Classes are delivered in a face-to-face format on the NSU campus in Aberdeen, SD. However, HyFlex alternatives are available for some courses, and are a great option for students that are current working professionals. Clinicals are completed in facilities located in Aberdeen and the surrounding areas.  

What benefits will the new building offer to nursing students? 

The new state-of-the-art simulation and lab center will feature advanced equipment, such as high-fidelity manikins and virtual reality systems, allowing students to practice clinical scenarios and essential nursing procedures in a safe, controlled environment. This cutting-edge facility will enhance nursing education quality and better prepare students for real-world clinical practice by developing critical thinking, decision-making, and hands-on skills.  The new facility will feature modern, well-equipped classrooms designed to facilitate interactive learning and foster student engagement. In addition, the building will include comfortable and quiet study areas where students can work individually or collaborate with their peers on group projects and assignments.

When will the nursing program begin accepting students? 

We are excited to announce that our nursing program is currently in the planning stages, with a targeted launch date of Fall 2025. The program has received prerequisite approval from the South Dakota Board of Nursing, demonstrating our commitment to meeting the highest standards of nursing education. As we work towards final program approval from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), we are diligently preparing our curriculum, faculty, and facilities to provide an exceptional learning experience for our future nursing students. We recommend that prospective students focus on completing prerequisite courses and meet with an advisor to prepare for the program's anticipated start in Fall 2025.