RN Nursing Programs in Minesotta - MN

How to Become an RN in Minnesota

There are two common education programs for RNs in Minnesota, each which are taken by about half of the RN students in the state. An Associate Degree, Nursing, or ADN is the shorter one. It takes about three years, including 10 prerequisite courses in general studies, like intro psychology and physiology. This also goes for the longer program is a Bachelor of Science, Nursing, or BSN, and it takes closer to four or five years, once you account for prerequisites. However, it is a popular route, as it provides both a baccalaureate degree and the opportunity to pursue graduate studies in nursing, as well as enhanced knowledge and skills that can lead to more dynamic careers than those available to an RN with an ADN.

Courses taken during an ADN are pretty similar to the first two years of a BSN: core courses in nursing care are complemented with lower-level sociology, psychology, microbiology and physiology. However, an ADN focuses a bit more on practical training, as there is little time to study in-depth theory and electives. Where ADNs leave off, a BSN picks up with advanced training in both nursing practice and theory, but also research-specific courses, strategic management, and nursing in a social context, plus more.

No matter which route you take, the final test is the same: the National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN). A comprehensive test of nursing skills and knowledge, the test carries a $200 examination fee from administrators Pearson Vue for which an application, at a cost of $50, must be approved by the Minnesota Board of Nursing. A degree is granted regardless of success on the test, but it is essential that one pass the test—rates are typically around 85 percent for first time test takers, but can vary based on program—in order to become licensed as a Registered Nurse and begin working in the state of Minnesota.

RN Jobs in Minnesota: Salary, Hours and Duties

Registered Nurses in Minnesota’s urban areas earn close to $70,000 per year (according to BLS.gov) on average, plus benefits. They work hard for their wages, sometimes being asked to come in nights, weekends, and work long hours. Their duties carry a great deal of responsibility as they work in conjunction with doctors and nursing assistants to constantly devise and adjust plans of care as new patients come in and their condition changes, especially when working in a hospital as do close to two-thirds of RNs in the state. RNs working in a doctor’s office, nursing home, or other health care institution may not have such a fast-paced job as those in hospitals, but they are still called upon to think critically about their patient’s needs and juggle multiple problems at once. Indeed, for those looking for a fast-paced and rewarding career, becoming a Registered Nurse in Minnesota is an attractive option.