This 64-credit Associate of Science (AS) degree is a three-semester step-in program for current Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) who wish to become registered nurses (RNs). Graduates are eligible to apply for licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN). Students may then transfer to Bemidji State University to pursue a Baccalaureate in Science (BS) in Nursing.
An RN is qualified to administer medications and treatment to patients, coordinate plans for patient care, perform diagnostic tests and analyze results, instruct patients on how to manage illnesses after treatment and oversee other workers such as LPNs, nursing aides, and home care aides.
Accreditation
Northwest Technical College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The nursing program is approved by the Minnesota Board of Nursing. The associate degree nursing programs are nationally accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, or ACEN.
Employment
Employment opportunities have experienced a major expansion in recent years. Graduates are currently employed in acute-care hospitals, state hospitals, long-term care facilities including nursing homes and rehabilitation hospitals, clinics and physicians’ offices, group homes and child care centers, health care and public health agencies, armed services, school nursing, industry and private homes.
Find Career Information
Learn what occupations may be of interest to someone who has completed this program. Find information about wages and employment outlook.
Next Steps
Credits for this degree are transferable to the Baccalaureate of Science Degree (BS) in Nursing at Bemidji State University. Graduates of the AS Nursing Step-In Track program are eligible to apply to take the National Council Licensure Examination for the Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN) to become an RN.
College Readiness
A student may be required to enroll in college readiness courses in reading, writing and math. A student’s scores on the Accuplacer assessment will determine enrollment in college readiness courses. The purpose of college readiness courses is to prepare students for the demands of a college-level curriculum. Credits may vary.
Degree Requirements
Total Credits: 64
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