Most Affordable Nursing Degrees In Minnesota 2022

A ranking of the most affordable nursing degrees in Minnesota. Programs ranked by affordability, flexibility, and academic quality.
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Updated January 31, 2023

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One of the current "hot" professions in the United States is that of a Registered Nurse (RN).

Part of the increased demand is due to initiatives to raise the minimum level of college education completed by RNs. The Institute of Medicine (IOM) is instrumental in one such initiative, aiming to double the number of RNs in the country (from 40% to 80%) who hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) by 2020. Minnesota is a participating state in this initiative—and offers affordable options for students.

What kind of Nursing Degree in Minnesota should you earn?

In short, you'll find that this list features largely Minnesota-based RN to BSN degrees at an affordable tuition. As a result of the IOM's recommendation, many government health agencies now require a BSN degree as the minimum education for RN positions. Private industry is following suit. Nursing schools are updating their programs and facilities as well, and some are offering multiple study track options to maximize the number of students who will complete their BSN and many are offering affordable online learning choices. Affordability is something that we all prioritize. Why not find the best school for the best price?

How much money can you make with a Nursing degree in Minnesota?

Whether you have a BSN or an RN, your nursing education will pay off. In the state of Minnesota, there are about 61,830 active RNs. The current average hourly wage for RNs in Minnesota is $35.55. That levels out to roughly $73,940 per year.

You're also essentially guaranteed to find a nursing job once you graduate. According to estimates by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there will be a 16% increase in demand for RNs in the country, between 2014 and 2024.

What are the Most Affordable Nursing Degrees in Minnesota?

The NCES (National Center for Education Statistics) database indicates that 19 nursing schools in Minnesota offered a BSN program in the last academic year. If you are looking for an affordable BSN program from a nursing school in Minnesota, the list below will get you started. It presents the most affordable BSN programs based on in-state tuition. Our data and information comes from college and university websites, the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard, and U.S. News and World Report.

Ranking

See our rankings methodology page.

#1 Most Affordable Nursing Degrees In Minnesota 2022

Metropolitan State University

  • Saint Paul, MN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Metropolitan State University, a public institution, welcomes degree-seekers to its bachelor's in nursing program. The school, located in Saint Paul, Minnesota, offers both in-person and online classes. Undergraduates benefit from rigorous academic standards and comprehensive college support services.

Majors earn a bachelor's degree from the bachelor of science in nursing program after taking nursing and general education courses. Social science, humanities, and STEM classes complement the courses in the nursing major. Learners prepare for the workforce or further education by taking advanced nursing courses that cover theoretical and practical topics.

Metropolitan State University at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 56%

Student-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 55

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 8

Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,031

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $14,345

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $6,820

Graduation Rate: 34%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $44,600

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,031
Out-of-state
$14,345
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,082
Out-of-state
$16,164
Retention Rate
77%
Acceptance Rate
56%
Students Enrolled
7,592
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
51% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#2 Most Affordable Nursing Degrees In Minnesota 2022

Saint Cloud State University

  • Saint Cloud, MN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A public institution, Saint Cloud State University offers a top-ranked bachelor's program in nursing. From its campus in Saint Cloud, the school offers both in-person and online enrollment options. Flexible course options, rigorous academics, and comprehensive support services appeal to many undergraduates.

Majors earn a bachelor's degree from the RN baccalaureate completion program after taking nursing and general education courses. Students meet general education requirements by taking classes in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The major curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to the field, preparing graduates for entry-level roles in diverse industries.

Saint Cloud State University at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 90%

Student-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 108

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 2

Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,394

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $15,686

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,798

Graduation Rate: 48%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $38,000

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,394
Out-of-state
$15,686
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,460
Out-of-state
$11,334
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
13,049
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
31% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#3 Most Affordable Nursing Degrees In Minnesota 2022

Minnesota State University, Mankato

  • Mankato, MN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The pre-licensure nursing program at Minnesota State University, Mankato, which offers 112 bachelor's programs, stands out for its excellent reputation. The nursing degree builds the knowledge and skills required for a variety of entry-level and mid-level careers. After completing a bachelor's degree, graduates also continue their education in master's programs.

The bachelor's curriculum introduces major principles and practices in nursing. General education courses emphasize in-demand skills like communication, writing, and critical thinking. Students can complement their degree with a minor or second major.

Incoming degree candidates receive strong support from the school's student services. For example, academic advisors meet with students to recommend course selections and review graduation requirements.

Minnesota State University, Mankato at a Glance:

Location: Mankato, Minnesota

Type of School: Public

Admissions Rate: 63%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 5

Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,394

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $15,686

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,394
Out-of-state
$15,686
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,694
Out-of-state
$7,694
Retention Rate
77%
Acceptance Rate
63%
Students Enrolled
14,325
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
44% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#4 Most Affordable Nursing Degrees In Minnesota 2022

Minnesota State University Moorhead

  • Moorhead, MN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Minnesota State University Moorhead offers a BS in nursing degree as one of its 90 bachelor's programs. This nursing degree incorporates knowledge and skills that prepare students for many career paths. A bachelor's degree also prepares graduates for master's and doctoral programs.

The bachelor's curriculum trains learners in foundational nursing knowledge and practices. Undergraduates complete general education courses that strengthen communication, writing, and critical thinking skills. Students complement their major by selecting a minor or double majoring.

The school's student services help incoming degree candidates transition into a bachelor's program. For example, financial aid counselors work with students to determine sources of educational funding such as grants, scholarships, and loans.

Minnesota State University Moorhead at a Glance:

Location: Moorhead, Minnesota

Type of School: Public

Admission Rate: 65%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 5

Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,632

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $15,264

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,632
Out-of-state
$15,264
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,550
Out-of-state
$8,550
Retention Rate
76%
Acceptance Rate
65%
Students Enrolled
5,747
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
54% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#5 Most Affordable Nursing Degrees In Minnesota 2022

Southwest Minnesota State University

  • Marshall, MN
  • 4 years
  • Campus

The bachelor's in nursing program at Southwest Minnesota State University, a public institution, prepares graduates for the workforce. Located in Marshall, Minnesota, the school offers on-campus and online courses. The school's flexible course options and comprehensive support services appeal to many undergraduates.

The BSN program incorporates general education and major courses to build in-demand knowledge and skills. Humanities, math, and natural sciences courses, which make up the general education curriculum, strengthen critical thinking and communication skills. Upper-division nursing classes cover theoretical and practical topics, preparing graduates for entry-level careers or further education.

Southwest Minnesota State University at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 64%

Student-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 57

Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,722

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,722

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,865

Graduation Rate: 50%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $34,900

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,722
Out-of-state
$7,722
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,374
Out-of-state
$7,374
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
7,058
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
21% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#6 Most Affordable Nursing Degrees In Minnesota 2022

Bemidji State University

  • Bemidji, MN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Bemidji State University, a public institution, welcomes degree-seekers to its bachelor's in nursing program. Degree-seekers choose from in-person and online enrollment options at the school, located in Bemidji, Minnesota. Undergraduates benefit from strong student support services and rigorous academics.

The RN-to-BSN program strengthens in-demand skills through general education and major courses. Students take humanities, math, and communication classes as part of the general education curriculum. Upper-division nursing classes cover theoretical and practical topics, preparing graduates for entry-level careers or further education.

Bemidji State University at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 65%

Student-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 61

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 11

Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,858

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,858

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,457

Graduation Rate: 48%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $37,000

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,858
Out-of-state
$7,858
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,779
Out-of-state
$7,779
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
65%
Students Enrolled
4,897
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
45% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#7 Most Affordable Nursing Degrees In Minnesota 2022

Winona State University

  • Winona, MN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Winona State University, a public institution, offers a top-ranking nursing program. Degree-seekers enroll in online classes and take in-person courses on the Winona campus. Undergraduates benefit from flexible course options and comprehensive college support services.

The RN-to-BSN program builds comprehensive skills and knowledge through both general education and major courses. Students meet general education requirements by taking classes in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Nursing major courses introduce major theoretical and practical approaches to the field, preparing program graduates to enter the workforce or pursue further education.

Winona State University at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 68%

Student-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 71

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 2

Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,598

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $13,698

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,082

Graduation Rate: 59%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $40,000

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,598
Out-of-state
$13,698
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,488
Out-of-state
$11,286
Retention Rate
77%
Acceptance Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
7,605
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
34% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#8 Most Affordable Nursing Degrees In Minnesota 2022

University of Minnesota

  • Minneapolis, MN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

University of Minnesota offers 135 bachelor's degrees, including a bachelor of science in nursing program that stands out for its quality. Students gain the knowledge and skills required for diverse career paths in the nursing program. Graduates also meet the requirements for master's programs after completing a bachelor's degree.

The bachelor's curriculum covers foundational and advanced nursing topics. General education classes emphasize key skills like writing, research, communication, and critical thinking. Students can complement their degree with a minor or second major.

Incoming degree candidates benefit from strong college support when they enroll at the school. For example, career counselors help students identify strengths and plan for the job market.

University of Minnesota at a Glance:

Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota

Type of School: Public

Admissions Rate: 57%

Undergrad Tuition In State: $13,318

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $31,616

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,318
Out-of-state
$31,616
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$17,580
Out-of-state
$27,204
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
57%
Students Enrolled
51,327
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
30% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#9 Most Affordable Nursing Degrees In Minnesota 2022

Crown College

  • Saint Bonifacius, MN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A private college, Crown College offers a top-rated bachelor's in nursing. Degree-seekers choose from in-person classes offered on the Saint Bonifacius campus and online classes. The school's flexible course options and comprehensive support services appeal to many undergraduates.

Majors take nursing courses in the BSN program and general education classes to earn a bachelor's degree. The general education curriculum introduces major academic subjects including humanities, math, and natural sciences. The nursing curriculum covers theoretical and advanced topics, preparing graduates for the workforce or further education.

Crown College at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 50%

Student-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 35

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 10

Undergrad Tuition In State: $26,480

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $26,480

Graduation Rate: 50%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $33,400

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$26,480
Out-of-state
$26,480
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,720
Out-of-state
$9,720
Retention Rate
64%
Acceptance Rate
50%
Students Enrolled
1,522
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
68% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#10 Most Affordable Nursing Degrees In Minnesota 2022

University of Northwestern-St. Paul

  • Saint Paul, MN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor's in nursing program at the University of Northwestern-St. Paul, a private institution, prepares graduates for the workforce. Degree-seekers take classes online and on the Saint Paul campus. Undergraduates benefit from flexible enrollment options and comprehensive support services.

Majors complete a bachelor's degree from the BSN program by taking general education and nursing courses. The general education requirements introduce major academic subjects like math, humanities, and the natural sciences. Nursing major courses introduce major theoretical and practical approaches to the field, preparing program graduates to enter the workforce or pursue further education.

University of Northwestern-St. Paul at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 92%

Student-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 55

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 4

Undergrad Tuition In State: $31,580

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $31,580

Graduation Rate: 68%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $35,200

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$31,580
Out-of-state
$31,580
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,982
Out-of-state
$8,982
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
92%
Students Enrolled
3,525
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
50% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

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