The North Dakota Board of Nursing (NDBON) approves prelicensure nursing education programs that prepare graduates for licensure as LPNs, RNs, or APRNs. Approval is essential for eligibility to take the NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination), which is required for licensure in all states.

• The NDBON approves programs, not individual degrees.
• Approval is different from accreditation.
  • Institutions must be accredited by a U.S. Department of Education-recognized agency.
  • Most nursing programs in North Dakota are voluntarily accredited by national nursing education agencies.

NDBON’s approval ensures that nursing programs cover the knowledge and skills necessary for safe and competent practice.

Approval and Monitoring Processes

• Initial and renewal program approvals include on-site surveys every five years (or paper review for accredited programs).
• The NDBON monitors NCLEX pass rates, requiring at least an 80% first-time pass rate.
• Annual reports analyze data on approved nursing programs.

Existing Accelerated Nursing Pathways in North Dakota

Accelerated nursing degrees are already available in North Dakota and approved by NDBON. These programs require general education prerequisites to ensure students meet the necessary academic foundation (such as sciences, psychology and sociology). Examples include:

• Practical Nurse Programs: Typically 11 months in length
• Associate Degree RN Programs: 1+1 programs (practical nurse + RN) take about 22 months.
• Bachelor’s Programs: Accelerated BSN programs are typically completed in three years or under 12 months for second-degree students.

Legal Requirements for Program Lengths (ND Nurse Practices Act)

The North Dakota Century Code (Section 43-12.1-17) sets minimum academic requirements for nursing education programs:

• LPN programs must be at least one academic year.
• RN programs must be at least two academic years.

These minimum requirements ensure programs meet both state law and national standards for nursing education.

Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) Requirements

To be eligible for APRN licensure in North Dakota, individuals must:

• Graduate from an accredited graduate-level nursing program in one of four recognized specialties.
• Pass a national certification exam for their specialty.

Recognized APRN roles include:

1. Nurse Practitioner
2. Clinical Nurse Specialist
3. Certified Nurse Midwife
4. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist