The Nursing Program is a 1 + 1, Practical Nurse (PN) Certificate to Associate Degree Nurse (ADN) Program. The program is part of the Dakota Nursing Program, a collaborative effort between Bismarck State College, Dakota College at Bottineau, Lake Region State College, and Williston State College. 

Classroom education is delivered by instructors on campus and from other colleges within the consortium through the Interactive Video Network (IVN) system. Some courses/components will be offered in an online format. Laboratory and simulation practice occurs at each location. Clinical opportunities are arranged locally.

This program is also offered at North Dakota satellite site locations in Hazen, Harvey, Garrison, Ashley, and Hettinger. 

Nursing education is organized as a career ladder. Students are eligible to earn a Certificate in Practical Nursing after the first 11 months of nursing classes. If qualifications are met, including maintaining a minimum required program GPA of 2.75, students may continue and complete the second year, which leads to an Associate in Applied Science degree in nursing (RN). Clinical experiences occur at the local hospitals, nursing homes, and community settings and includes Med/Surg, Operating Room, ER, Maternal/Newborn, Pediatrics, Psychiatry and ICU.

Classroom education is delivered from instructors on campus and at distant sites via the Interactive Video Network (IVN). Clinical/lab practice occurs at local sites in nursing homes, hospitals and other community settings. Mobile simulations are also used at each community site.

A strong science background is recommended with high school preparation in the biological sciences, especially anatomy and physiology, mathematics (at least Algebra II) and Certified Nursing Assistant training.

Year 1 - Students who successfully complete the curriculum receive a Program Certificate in Practical Nursing. Students may choose to continue into Year 2 and/or apply to take the National Council of State Boards of Nursing PN examination (NCLEX-PN).

Year 2 - Students who successfully complete the curriculum receive an Associate in Applied Science Degree in Nursing and are eligible to take the NCSBN exam (NCLEX-RN).

Graduates of nursing programs are in high demand in North Dakota and throughout the United States. The Nursing Program prepares an individual to practice nursing independently, inter-dependently, and safely to individuals in a variety of settings.

Career Possibilities for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs): Clinics, hospitals, long-term care facilities, and acute care centers.

Career Possibilities for Registered Nurses (RNs): Hospital acute care settings, long-term care facilities, clinics, outpatient offices, health care industry, community and public agencies.