2023 Best ADN Programs in Minnesota

Navigating the numerous Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs in Minnesota can prove challenging. With 53 programs on offer and 23 schools accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), how can prospective students identify the most suitable ones?

Deciphering the quality of an ADN program involves considering key criteria.

First, the NCLEX passing rates provide crucial insights into a program’s efficacy. In Minnesota, these rates fluctuate between a low of 21.40% to a high of 92.00%. Programs showcasing higher passing rates demonstrate the capability to produce graduates primed for success in the nursing profession.

Second, the duration of the program also plays a vital role in the decision-making process. Students should note that an ADN usually takes 18 to 24 months to complete. Consequently, programs fitting within this time frame typically offer a curriculum that balances efficiency and depth.

In short, prospective students should scrutinize the NCLEX passing rates and consider the program duration. Applying these considerations will steer them towards the most beneficial ADN programs in Minnesota.

2025 8th Annual Best Ranked ADN Programs in Minnesota

How Do We Rank The Best ADN Programs In Minnesota?

First, we gather a list of all nursing schools offering ADN programs in Minnesota and then rank the best school based on the following factors:

Academic quality (admissions rate, enrollment rate, graduation rate & retention rate, NCLEX passing rates as college-wide quality): 70%
RNCareers.org’s editorial rankings and the nursing school’s reputation: 20%
The affordable of the programs offered by the nursing school: 10%
Our best ranked ADN programs earn a 90% or above grade

More about our ranking methodology.

Jump to a Best Ranked Nursing Programs

Normandale Community College
Central Lakes College-Brainerd
Rochester Community and Technical College

#1 Associate Degree in Nursing

Normandale Community College

92.34% 3-Year
Pass Rate

9700 France Ave S, Bloomington, MN - 55431-4399
(952) 358-8200

NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 92.34%
Programs: Registered Nursing
Award Levels: Associate

University Information

Total Faculty: 152
In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $1,000
Book and Supplies: N/A
Percent Received Aid: 92%
Average Grant or Scholarship: $3,294
Percent Admitted: N/A
Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
Graduation Rate: 22%

Normandale Community College is located in Bloomington, Minnesota. They offer an ADN program. While there is not a specific LPN to RN program, LPNs do take a separate transitions course in place of a 9 credit foundations course. Normandale nursing students can also earn their BSN in conjunction with various partnerships with neighboring colleges.

#2 Associate Degree in Nursing

Central Lakes College-Brainerd

91.74% 3-Year
Pass Rate

501 West College Drive, Brainerd, MN - 56401-3900
(218) 855-8000

NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 91.74%
Programs: Registered Nursing
Award Levels: Associate

University Information

Total Faculty: 78
In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $1,000
Book and Supplies: N/A
Percent Received Aid: 96%
Average Grant or Scholarship: $4,036
Percent Admitted: N/A
Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
Graduation Rate: 42%

#3 Associate Degree in Nursing

Rochester Community and Technical College

91.60% 3-Year
Pass Rate

851 30th Ave SE, Rochester, MN - 55904-4999
(507) 285-7210

NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 91.60%
Programs: Registered Nursing
Award Levels: Associate

University Information

Total Faculty: 102
In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $1,600
Book and Supplies: N/A
Percent Received Aid: 92%
Average Grant or Scholarship: $3,272
Percent Admitted: N/A
Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
Graduation Rate: 24%

Rochester Community and Technical College is located in Rochester, Minnesota. They offer an ADN degree. There is not a separate LPN to RN program, but LPNs are given advanced placement based on their past education and licensure.

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Discover information on start dates, credit transfer processes, initial salary expectations, financial aid opportunities, GRE requirements, tuition fees, student-to-faculty ratios, and average post-graduation employment rates.

Nursing Programs Offered by Minnesota Nursing Schools

Registered Nursing: 49
Family Nurse Practitioner: 7
Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner: 5
Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner: 2
Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner: 2
Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner: 2
Adult Nurse Practitioner: 1
CNL: 1
Women's Health Nurse Practitioner: 1

Minnesota Nursing Schools with the Most Degree Types

Additional Minnesota ADN Programs

Grade	University	Minnesota Rank	Degree
88.54	Minnesota State Community and Technical College	4	ADN
88.39	North Hennepin Community College	5	ADN
88.07	Northland Community and Technical College	6	ADN
87.95	Inver Hills Community College	7	ADN
87.82	Alexandria Technical & Community College	8	ADN
86.70	Pine Technical College	9	ADN
85.75	Minneapolis Community and Technical College	10	ADN
84.34	Northwest Technical College	11	ADN
84.16	Lake Superior College	12	ADN
83.93	Century Community College	13	ADN
82.20	Anoka-Ramsey Community College	14	ADN
81.90	St Cloud Technical and Community College	15	ADN
81.37	Riverland Community College	16	ADN
80.42	Ridgewater College	17	ADN
78.80	South Central College	18	ADN
63.49	Minnesota West Community and Technical College	19	ADN
57.02	Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College	20	ADN

ADN Financial Aid and Scholarships for Minnesota Nurses

Financial aid resources are plentiful for Minnesota’s Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) students. These resources offer vital support, helping to reduce the burden of educational costs.

Loans: Federal and private loans provide students with the funds needed for their education. These loans must be repaid over time, often with interest.

Grants: Unlike loans, grants do not require repayment. They can be federal, state or institution-based and are usually awarded based on need.

Scholarships: These are monetary gifts awarded to students based on various criteria including academic merit, community involvement, or financial need.

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) serves as a key stepping stone to securing financial aid. Filling out this application allows students to be considered for a wide range of financial aid, including loans, grants, and scholarships. The FAFSA can be accessed at FAFSA Application.

Further state-specific resources can be found at Minnesota Office of Higher Education.

Below is a list of scholarships available to Minnesota ADN students:

Minnesota Nurses Association Scholarship: This scholarship supports members of the Minnesota Nurses Association who are furthering their education in nursing. Award Amount: Varies. Application Deadline Month: May.
Minnesota Indian Scholarship Program: Offers aid to students of Native American descent who are Minnesota residents and demonstrate financial need. Award Amount: Up to $6,000 for undergraduates. Application Deadline Month: July.
Minnesota Association of Townships Scholarships: Scholarships for juniors in public high schools in Minnesota who plan to attend a college in Minnesota. Award Amount: $2,000. Application Deadline Month: May.
Minnesota Legionnaire Nurse’s Scholarship: Provides financial assistance to veterans or relatives of veterans interested in pursuing nursing. Award Amount: Varies. Application Deadline Month: March.
Public Safety Officer’s Survivor Grant: For children and spouses of public safety officers killed in the line of duty, including studying nursing. Award Amount: Full tuition. Application Deadline Month: Rolling.

ADN Scholarships for Minnesota Nurses

Minnesota Resources for ADN

Minnesota offers numerous resources for those pursuing an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), from professional organizations to state initiatives. These resources provide support for current students and new graduates entering the field.

State and Organizational Resources in Minnesota

Minnesota Board of Nursing – The state regulatory body that oversees licensing and practice standards for nurses in Minnesota.
Minnesota Nurses Association – Represents the interests of Minnesota nurses, offering professional development, advocacy, and networking opportunities.
Minnesota Organization of Registered Nurses (MNORN) – Works to advance the profession of nursing in Minnesota through education, advocacy, and collaboration.
Minnesota Student Nurses Association – Provides resources, support, and networking opportunities for nursing students in Minnesota.
Minnesota Association of Colleges of Nursing – An organization of baccalaureate and higher degree nursing education programs in the state.
Minnesota Department of Health – Office of Rural Health and Primary Care – Provides programs and resources to improve access to healthcare in rural and underserved areas.
Minnesota Action Coalition – Works to transform health care through nursing in Minnesota, offering scholarships, leadership programs, and advocacy initiatives.

These resources provide an excellent starting point for anyone pursuing an ADN in Minnesota. They offer invaluable support, helping to ensure the success of every student and nurse in the state.

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ADN Sources

Here is a list of key resources offering invaluable data and support for those in or entering the nursing profession in Minnesota:

Minnesota Board of Nursing – The state regulatory body that sets standards for nursing education and practice, and issues nursing licenses in Minnesota.
Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) College Navigator for Minnesota – A database providing detailed profiles for universities and colleges in Minnesota, including information on programs offered, graduation rates, and financial aid.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) for Minnesota – Provides current employment statistics and wage estimates for various occupations, including nursing, in Minnesota.