2026 Best BSN to MSN Programs in North Dakota: Online & Campus

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Nurses in North Dakota with a BSN face challenges identifying MSN programs that balance quality, flexibility, and career advancement. Recent data shows a 15% projected growth in advanced practice nursing roles within the state by 2028, intensifying competition for suitable graduate programs. Selecting a program demands careful consideration of accreditation, clinical opportunities, and delivery format.

This article, curated by experts in career planning, evaluates the top online and campus-based MSN options in North Dakota. It provides a clear, practical framework to help nurses compare programs, assess key features, and make informed educational decisions that support professional growth in an evolving healthcare landscape.

Key Benefits of BSN to MSN Programs in North Dakota

• Flexible online formats in North Dakota accommodate working nurses, with studies showing over 60% of RNs pursuing advanced degrees prefer digital options to balance work and education.
• On-campus programs offer direct access to clinical sites and networking essential in North Dakota's primarily rural healthcare settings, important while the state faces a 15% nurse shortage.
• Both formats provide curriculum aligned with evolving healthcare demands, enabling BSN-prepared nurses to fill advanced practice roles where a 12% employment growth is projected through 2030.

Table of Contents

1. What is a BSN to MSN program in North Dakota?
2. How do campus-based programs compare to online BSN to MSN programs?
3. What are the admission requirements for BSN to MSN programs in North Dakota?
4. What specializations are available in BSN to MSN programs in North Dakota?
5. What courses are included in a BSN to MSN program in North Dakota?
6. How long does it take to complete a BSN to MSN program in North Dakota?
7. How much do BSN to MSN programs cost in North Dakota?
8. What financial aid options are available to BSN to MSN students in North Dakota?
9. What jobs can BSN to MSN graduates pursue in North Dakota?
10. What is the average salary of BSN to MSN graduates in North Dakota?

What is a BSN to MSN program in North Dakota?

A BSN to MSN pathway in North Dakota enables registered nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to advance their education to a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). These programs are designed to build upon the foundational knowledge and clinical experience from the BSN, offering accelerated progression through advanced coursework and clinical practice.

The structure of these programs often integrates flexible online and campus-based options, accommodating the schedules of working nurses and addressing the diverse needs of healthcare settings in the state. This focused approach prepares graduates for advanced practice, leadership, and specialized nursing roles that align with North Dakota's evolving healthcare demands and workforce requirements.

Nurses pursuing these degrees can expect to develop expertise in areas such as nurse practitioner roles, nursing education, and healthcare administration, supporting career advancement and expanded scopes of practice. The best bsn to msn nursing programs north dakota options also emphasize evidence-based practice and population health, helping nurses address regional challenges effectively.

For those weighing different advanced practice certifications relevant to North Dakota, understanding the differences between FNP-BC and FNP-C certification can be vital when choosing career paths after graduation. Additionally, many programs include specializations that cater to diverse clinical interests, which offers graduates more tailored professional opportunities.

How do campus-based programs compare to online BSN to MSN programs?

Enrollment in online graduate nursing programs has increased by over 60% nationally in the past five years, reflecting the rising demand for flexible education options among nurses. This trend highlights the growing consideration for the differences between campus-based and online BSN to MSN programs North Dakota offers.

Comparing these formats reveals distinct advantages and challenges that influence a nurse's educational experience and career trajectory.

• Learning format and structure: Campus-based BSN to MSN programs emphasize in-person instruction with scheduled classes, fostering immediate interaction and access to on-campus resources like simulation labs. Online programs focus on asynchronous lectures and virtual discussions, offering greater autonomy but relying heavily on self-discipline and digital engagement tools.
• Schedule flexibility: Online students benefit from adaptable schedules suited to balancing clinical shifts and personal responsibilities, while campus-based students follow fixed class times that provide a consistent routine but less flexibility.
• Clinical and practicum experiences: Campus programs typically arrange supervised clinical placements directly, offering hands-on experiences within established facilities. Online learners often must independently organize practicums locally, requiring strong self-initiative and resourcefulness.
• Faculty interaction and peer collaboration: Face-to-face engagement in campus settings enables spontaneous discussions and close mentorship, whereas online formats depend on video conferencing, forums, and email to maintain communication, which may limit immediacy but broaden accessibility.
• Technology requirements and learning tools: Online programs demand reliable internet, personal computers, and comfort with educational software, while campus programs provide on-site technological infrastructure, reducing individual technology burdens.
• Cost considerations: Online formats often reduce expenses related to commuting, housing, and campus fees, potentially lowering overall costs despite similar tuition rates. Campus programs have additional costs but may offer more structured financial support options.
• Ideal student profiles: Campus-based BSN to MSN programs North Dakota typically suit learners seeking immersive, structured environments, while online programs attract self-directed nurses needing schedule flexibility. Each format prepares students for advanced roles but caters to different lifestyle and learning preferences.

For nurses researching pathways to advance their careers, resources like how to go from registered nurse to nurse practitioner can offer valuable guidance tailored to their educational choices and professional goals.

What are the admission requirements for BSN to MSN programs in North Dakota?

North Dakota has seen rising demand for nurses with advanced degrees, driven by statewide shortages in primary care and specialized medical fields. This trend increases competition for BSN to MSN program spots, prompting schools to maintain rigorous admission criteria to ensure candidate readiness.

Below is an overview of key admission requirements commonly expected by these programs, providing a practical guide for prospective applicants.

• Educational Prerequisites: Applicants must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited institution, typically with a minimum cumulative GPA around 3. 0 on a 4. 0 scale, demonstrating academic competence necessary for graduate-level study.
• Licensure: An active, unencumbered Registered Nurse (RN) license in North Dakota is required or proof of eligibility to obtain one before enrollment, ensuring legal and professional standing for clinical practice.
• Work Experience: Many programs expect one to two years of clinical or professional nursing experience to verify applicants' practical skills and readiness for advanced coursework, though some may vary in this requirement.
• Standardized Testing: GRE scores may be required by certain programs; however, some waive this based on strong academic records or relevant experience, reflecting differing institutional priorities.
• Letters of Recommendation: Typically, two to three letters from academic or professional references are requested to assess competencies, work ethic, and potential for success in graduate nursing education.
• Personal Statement or Essay: A crucial application element where candidates express motivations, career goals, and alignment with the MSN program's offerings, showcasing communication skills and professional vision.
• Interviews or Additional Assessments: Some programs incorporate interviews or supplemental evaluations to further gauge interpersonal abilities, program fit, and commitment to advanced nursing roles.

What specializations are available in BSN to MSN programs in North Dakota?

Navigating BSN to MSN programs in North Dakota reveals a variety of specializations tailored to distinct professional interests and competencies. These specializations enable practicing nurses to deepen their expertise through focused study, with each track offering its own unique areas of emphasis and challenges.

Among the available options, students can choose from:

• Nurse Practitioner (NP) Track: Focuses on direct patient care with advanced clinical skills. Specialties often include family, adult-gerontology, or pediatric primary care, emphasizing diagnostic reasoning and patient management.
• Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS): Prepares nurses to act as clinical experts and consultants, combining advanced practice with research and quality improvement, concentrating on areas such as acute care, geriatrics, or psychiatric-mental health.
• Nurse Educator: Emphasizes curriculum design, teaching strategies, and evaluation within nursing education. This specialization develops skills for academic roles, blending clinical knowledge with educational practice.
• Nurse Administrator or Nurse Leader: Focuses on health care management and leadership, including financial oversight, policy, human resources, and organizational development to prepare nurses for management positions.
• Emerging Specializations: Include population health-targeting community health and prevention-and informatics, which integrates nursing with technology and data analysis to optimize health outcomes.

What courses are included in a BSN to MSN program in North Dakota?

BSN to MSN programs in North Dakota generally require completion of 36 to 50 credit hours over 2 to 3 years, offering a pathway to advanced nursing roles through a blend of core and specialized coursework. The curriculum balances foundational knowledge with tailored electives, enabling nurses to meet diverse healthcare needs effectively.

Examining the North Dakota bsn to msn program courses reveals key areas of focus essential for clinical and leadership growth.

• Advanced Pathophysiology: This course delves into complex bodily systems and disease processes, enhancing clinical decision-making skills crucial for nuanced patient care.
• Advanced Pharmacology  Focuses on medication management and safe prescribing practices, preparing nurses to handle pharmacologic interventions responsibly in advanced roles.
• Advanced Health Assessment: Develops skills in comprehensive patient examinations and diagnostic reasoning, foundational for direct patient care and clinical judgment.
• Nursing Research: Equips students with tools to analyze and apply scientific evidence, fostering a culture of evidence-based practice and continuous improvement.
• Leadership and Management in Healthcare: Covers administration, team coordination, and policy development, preparing nurses for leadership positions within healthcare systems.
• Elective Specializations: Include tracks such as nurse practitioner roles (family, pediatric, gerontological), nurse educator, nurse administrator, and clinical nurse leader. These electives allow tailoring of the curriculum to clinical, educational, or administrative career goals.

By integrating core courses with specialization-specific topics, the bsn to msn nursing curriculum in North Dakota offers flexibility while ensuring advanced competencies across clinical, educational, and leadership domains. For nurses exploring pathways to advanced practice, understanding these options is essential when evaluating how can you become a nurse practitioner online may fit within your career aspirations.

How long does it take to complete a BSN to MSN program in North Dakota?

Data from national nursing education reports indicate that most BSN to MSN programs are completed within three years, even among part-time students balancing work and study. This trend highlights both the flexibility and challenges faced by registered nurses advancing their education in North Dakota. Several variables affect the specific duration, which deserves a closer look.

The timeframe for completing a BSN to MSN degree can vary considerably based on individual circumstances and program characteristics, including enrollment status, specialization requirements, and credit transfer policies. Key factors shaping program length include:

• Enrollment status: Full-time students typically finish in approximately 2 years due to heavier course loads and more intensive study schedules, whereas part-time students, often working professionals, may take up to 3 years or longer to accommodate work commitments.
• Specialization choice: Programs focusing on nurse practitioner or nurse anesthetist tracks generally require more extensive clinical hours, resulting in longer completion times compared to education or informatics specializations, which tend to have fewer hands-on clinical requirements.
• Transfer credits: The number of previously earned graduate-level credits accepted by a program can reduce the time needed to graduate. However, credit transfer policies vary widely, so prospective students should carefully evaluate how their prior coursework is recognized.
• Course load and scheduling flexibility: Students maintaining a heavier course load can expedite graduation but may face greater stress balancing coursework with professional duties. More flexible or accelerated programs can assist students in shortening their timeline but may be less common.

How much do BSN to MSN programs cost in North Dakota?

Graduate nursing tuition in North Dakota generally ranges from about $7, 000 to $12, 000 annually for in-state students, while out-of-state tuition can rise to between $15, 000 and $25, 000 per year. These costs reflect tuition only and do not capture the full financial picture of BSN to MSN programs.

Considering various expenses can provide a clearer view of total program costs.

• Tuition (In-State vs. Out-of-State): In-state tuition tends to be significantly lower, offering more affordable options for residents. Out-of-state students should prepare for nearly double the yearly tuition, which can affect overall program affordability.
• Mandatory Fees: Beyond tuition, students often face fees related to registration, technology, and campus services. These mandatory charges can add several hundred to a few thousand dollars per year, making it important to factor them into budgeting.
• Additional Costs (Books, Technology, and Clinical Supplies): Textbooks and clinical supplies are essential expenses that may add several hundred dollars each semester. Online students might also encounter technology fees and need reliable internet access, whereas campus-based students could incur commuting or parking expenses.
• Financial Aid Options: Federal loans, scholarships, grants, and employer tuition reimbursement are commonly available and can substantially offset program costs. Prospective students should explore these options early, as eligibility and availability vary across programs.
• Program Format and Cost Variations: Online programs often offer flexibility and similar tuition rates compared to campus options but may have unique technology-related costs. Campus programs might require additional expenses related to travel or on-site requirements, influencing the total cost depending on personal circumstances.

What financial aid options are available to BSN to MSN students in North Dakota?

Financial support for BSN to MSN students in North Dakota involves various options, though some require careful evaluation due to eligibility nuances or limited availability. Exploring these resources thoughtfully can help manage educational expenses while advancing nursing careers.

Below are key financial aid options often available to those seeking financial aid for BSN to MSN students in North Dakota:

• Federal and State Grants: Starting with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is essential. While Pell Grants are typically limited for graduate students, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG) may be accessible. North Dakota state grants are rare but occasionally offered through the university system, so checking with each school's financial aid office is advised.
• Scholarships: Several scholarships exist from entities like the North Dakota Nurses Association and various nursing schools, many targeting graduate nursing students. Professional bodies such as the American Association of Colleges of Nursing also provide support. These scholarships can be merit- or need-based, making them worthwhile to research thoroughly when comparing North Dakota nursing graduate program scholarships.
• Employer Tuition Assistance: Some healthcare employers offer tuition reimbursement or assistance for nurses pursuing advanced degrees, often requiring future work commitments. Nurses employed in hospitals or clinics should inquire locally, as employer programs can significantly offset costs.
• Student Loans: Federal loans through FAFSA, including Direct Unsubsidized and Grad PLUS Loans, generally offer better terms than private loans. Exhausting federal options first is prudent due to lower interest rates and flexible repayment plans.
• Loan Forgiveness Programs: State programs like the North Dakota State Loan Repayment Program focus on nurses working in underserved areas, while federal options such as the Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program aid those serving in critical shortage facilities. These programs can reduce loan burdens but often involve service obligations.
• Assistantships and Work-Study Opportunities: Some universities provide assistantships or work-study roles linked to teaching, research, or clinical work. These positions may offer tuition waivers or stipends and valuable experience, though availability varies and requires direct inquiry.

For nurses considering specialized advanced tracks, reviewing a list of the best shortest online PMHNP certificate programs can further inform financial planning and program selection.

What jobs can BSN to MSN graduates pursue in North Dakota?

Graduates pursuing advanced nursing roles after completing BSN to MSN programs in North Dakota have access to a variety of meaningful career options. These opportunities reflect the higher clinical expertise and leadership abilities gained through graduate-level education, which can significantly impact healthcare delivery across diverse settings.

Exploring available career pathways reveals how these nurses can contribute in multiple specialized capacities.

• Nurse Practitioner (NP): NPs serve in outpatient clinics, hospitals, or community health environments, providing primary and specialized care. Their duties include conducting physical exams, diagnosing illnesses, prescribing treatments, and managing patient care plans. Those interested in family or specialty practice might also consider easy pediatric nurse practitioner online programs for focused pediatric training.
• Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS): CNS positions focus on advanced clinical practice within specialties such as geriatrics or critical care, often working inside hospitals to develop evidence-based protocols and serving as expert consultants to enhance patient outcomes.
• Nurse Educator: Nurse educators primarily work in academic or clinical education settings, designing curricula, teaching nursing theory, and mentoring future nurses to ensure a well-prepared nursing workforce.
• Nurse Administrator or Nurse Leader: These professionals manage nursing teams and departments across hospitals or public health organizations. Responsibilities include staffing, budgeting, and policy enforcement, demanding strong leadership balanced with clinical expertise.
• Emerging Roles: With healthcare evolving, roles like nurse informaticists who combine nursing and IT, and population health managers who design community wellness initiatives, provide innovative career alternatives for BSN to MSN nurse practitioner jobs in North Dakota.

What is the average salary of BSN to MSN graduates in North Dakota?

The average annual salary for MSN-prepared nurses in North Dakota typically ranges from around $85, 000 to $110, 000, depending on the specific advanced nursing role. Nurse practitioners often earn closer to the higher end of this spectrum, reflecting their expanded clinical responsibilities. Understanding these salary variations is important for BSN-prepared nurses considering further education and career advancement.

Below is a breakdown of average salaries and key factors influencing pay in North Dakota:

• Average Salaries by Role: Nurse practitioners with an MSN generally earn about $100, 000 to $110, 000 annually. Clinical nurse specialists and nurse educators usually have salaries ranging from $85, 000 to $95, 000. Nurse administrators or leaders see earnings near $95, 000 to $105, 000, reflecting their management responsibilities.
• Experience: Salaries tend to increase with years of practice and expertise. Advanced practice nurses who build a solid specialty background often command higher pay, though entry points may be more modest.
• Location: Geographic factors influence salary levels. Urban centers and regions experiencing greater healthcare demand often offer higher compensation compared to rural areas, though cost of living differences may also play a role.
• Specialization: Certain specialties, including family nurse practitioners or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, may receive higher wages due to workforce needs and demand fluctuations. However, these trends can change with healthcare market shifts.
• Potential Salary Growth: Over time, MSN-prepared nurses may see salary growth by gaining additional certifications, expanding clinical skills, or transitioning into leadership roles. The increasing demand for advanced practice nurses in North Dakota supports positive long-term earning potential.

What Graduates of BSN to MSN Programs in North Dakota Say About Their Degree

• Completing my BSN to MSN program through the hybrid format in North Dakota was a game-changer for my career. It allowed me to balance work with studies while attending the University of North Dakota. Now, as a school nurse at Red River High School, I feel empowered to make a real difference in students' health and wellness. The program's flexibility combined with North Dakota's close-knit community gave me both the skills and confidence to thrive professionally. I am genuinely passionate about supporting young people's well-being daily. Randy
• Enrolling in an on-campus BSN to MSN program at Minnesota State University was a reflective journey that deepened my understanding of healthcare in rural settings. Working as an MSN-prepared registered nurse at Bismarck Public Schools has allowed me to advance professionally while addressing unique healthcare challenges faced by children in our community. The program's focus on critical thinking and leadership was invaluable, especially considering North Dakota's vast geography and the need for adaptable healthcare strategies. I appreciate how this education continues to drive positive outcomes for families here. Niña
• The opportunity to pursue my BSN to MSN degree online in North Dakota opened doors I never imagined. After graduating, I took a position as a school nurse at Fargo North High School, where I apply evidence-based practices to improve adolescent health. The program challenged me to develop professionally and personally, especially with North Dakota's growing healthcare needs in both urban and rural areas. I feel proud to contribute meaningfully to my community while continuing to grow through ongoing professional development. Diego

References:

• Role of the NDBON in Nursing Education Programs https://www.ndbon.org/academic/ndbon-role-nursing-programs/
• Master’s in Nursing Schools in North Dakota https://www.rntomsn.com/states/north-dakota/
• Master of Science in Nursing Program https://mayvillestate.edu/academics/majors-and-minors/nursing/msn-program/
• Is An MSN Degree Worth It? | Salary & Guide 2025 https://nurse.org/articles/advantages-drawbacks-msn-masters-science-nursing/
• Salary in North Dakota - ND for MSN-Educated Nurses Practitioners and More https://www.msnedu.org/north-dakota/north-dakota-salary/
• BSN Degree Programs in North Dakota | Bachelor of Science in Nursing Online in ND https://www.bsnedu.org/north-dakota-pre-licensure-bsn/
• Registered Nurse Salary in North Dakota (2024) | Trusted Health https://www.trustedhealth.com/nurse-salary-guide/north-dakota
• Nursing Schools In North Dakota For RN, ASN, BSN, MSN https://www.nursingschools.com/schools/north-dakota/

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