Becoming a Registered Nurse (RN) in Minnesota requires navigating a structured sequence of academic and regulatory steps designed to ensure competence and safety in patient care. The journey begins with selecting an approved education pathway that meets state standards, culminating in a national examination and a final state licensure application. Aspiring nurses must understand the specific requirements set forth by the Minnesota Board of Nursing (MBON) to efficiently progress into the profession.
Understanding the Educational Pathways to RN Licensure
Individuals pursuing RN licensure in Minnesota typically choose one of three educational routes. The two most common options are the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). The ADN is generally offered by technical or community colleges and can often be completed in about two years, providing the foundational knowledge and clinical skills needed for entry-level practice.
The BSN is typically a four-year university degree. It includes a broader curriculum incorporating nursing science alongside courses in leadership, research, and public health. Many employers prefer the BSN, viewing the additional education as beneficial for complex decision-making and career advancement into management or specialized roles.
For those who already possess a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program provides a fast-track option. ABSN programs are intensive, full-time tracks that condense the BSN curriculum into 12 to 18 months. These programs leverage the student’s previous college education, focusing solely on core nursing coursework and clinical experiences. Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) may also pursue LPN-to-RN bridge programs, which grant credit for prior training, allowing for a more efficient transition to RN status.
Selecting an Approved Nursing Program in Minnesota
A requirement for licensure is completing a nursing program specifically approved by the Minnesota Board of Nursing (MBON). The MBON maintains a list of approved professional nursing programs, and selecting one ensures the curriculum meets the state’s educational standards. Prospective students should also verify the program holds national accreditation from an organization such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
Before gaining admission, applicants must complete a series of prerequisite courses, often involving specific science subjects. These foundational courses usually include anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and sometimes chemistry or statistics. Schools commonly require applicants to maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) in these prerequisite courses to be considered for admission.
Preparing for and Passing the NCLEX-RN Examination
Graduating from an approved nursing program makes a candidate eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). The MBON must first declare a graduate eligible to test. Pearson VUE, the examination administrator, then sends the candidate an Authorization to Test (ATT), which permits the candidate to register and schedule their exam date.
The NCLEX-RN is a computerized adaptive test (CAT), meaning the difficulty of the questions adjusts based on the candidate’s responses. The exam assesses a candidate’s ability to apply nursing knowledge and critical thinking skills to make clinical judgments. The test can range from 75 to 145 questions, with a total time limit of five hours.
Effective preparation involves consistent study using practice questions that mimic the exam’s format. Reviewing content with a focus on patient safety, prioritization, and the nursing process is recommended. Passing the NCLEX-RN is the last major hurdle before applying for the state license.
Completing the Minnesota RN Licensure Application
Once the NCLEX-RN is passed, the final step is formally applying for licensure through the Minnesota Board of Nursing. This is known as licensure by examination. The application must be submitted along with the required fees, which include a non-refundable application fee of $105.00 and a $32.00 fee for the mandatory criminal background check. The nursing program must also submit a Confirmation of Program Completion form directly to the MBON to verify the candidate’s graduation.
The state requires all applicants to complete a criminal background check, which involves submitting fingerprints for a review by both state and federal authorities. Applicants must fully disclose any misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor, or felony criminal convictions on their application. Failure to disclose convictions can result in denial of licensure. The MBON reviews the circumstances of any disclosed convictions to determine if the applicant has demonstrated sufficient rehabilitation, a process governed by Minnesota Statutes Chapter 148.
Nurses licensed in another state who wish to practice in Minnesota must apply for licensure by endorsement. This process also requires an application, fees, and a criminal background check.
Maintaining Licensure and Continuing Education Requirements
A Minnesota RN license must be renewed every two years to remain active. The renewal cycle is tied to the nurse’s birthday, with the license expiring on the last day of the birth month. Maintaining active licensure requires the nurse to meet specific continuing education (CE) requirements mandated by the MBON.
Registered Nurses must complete a minimum of 24 contact hours of approved continuing education during each two-year renewal period. These courses must be provided by organizations recognized by the MBON or other approved accrediting bodies. Nurses must also provide evidence of having practiced nursing for at least 400 hours within the previous two years to qualify for renewal.
Career Outlook and Job Opportunities in Minnesota
The employment landscape for Registered Nurses in Minnesota is favorable, reflecting a growing demand for qualified healthcare professionals. New RNs find opportunities in a diverse array of settings, including large hospital systems, community clinics, long-term care facilities, schools, and public health agencies. The projected employment growth for RNs in the state is encouraging, indicating a strong need for nurses in the coming years.
The average annual salary for a Registered Nurse in Minnesota is approximately $84,030, which ranks above the national average. Wages can vary based on location, with areas like St. Cloud and Rochester often reporting higher average earnings. Salaries are also influenced by specialty area, with positions such as Med/Surg Nurse or Progressive Care Nurse commanding higher pay ranges.