Nursing
Frequently Asked Questions
How many students apply to the program? How many students are admitted?
Historically we have anywhere from 80-90 applicants. Of these applicants, 45 students are admitted to the program.
What GPA do I need in order to be admitted?
The minimum GPA requirement is 2.75, which applies to both cumulative and preadmission courses GPA. Because the admissions process is highly competitive, the GPA of the admitted class of students tends to be 3.30-3.40.
What criteria are used to determine admission into the program?
Admission is based on a combination of factors
- A minimum GPA of 2.75 for nursing preadmissions courses
- A minimum St. Cloud State cumulative GPA of 2.75
- Two completed reference forms
- Admitted as an St. Cloud State student
- Complete application form
Can I still apply to the program if I don't have all of the preadmission courses completed?
Applicants may only be enrolled in BIO 206 and liberal education courses at time of application.
What if I do not complete all of my preadmission courses at St. Cloud State?
The Department of Nursing Science will accept equivalent courses transferred from other institutions, provided that St. Cloud State has determined the courses are equivalent. Students can find more information about course equivalencies at www.transferology.com.
Can I take STAT 103 instead of MATH 103? Can I take other MATH courses to fulfill this requirement?
Yes, any of the equivalent St. Cloud State courses that fulfill Goal 4 of the general education requirement are acceptable to fulfill the Nursing program math requirement. This includes: MATH 111, 112, 115, 196, 211, 221, and STAT 103.
Do you have a waiting list?
No, we do not keep a waiting list for admission to the major. We have a competitive admissions process, and we do not carry over names from one application cycle to the next.
Do I need to have my CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) certification to apply to the program?
No, we do not require that our applicants have their CNA licensure, nor do we require that our applicants have any work experience in the healthcare field.
Do I need to have my CPR certification to apply to the program?
No, we do not require that our applicants have their CPR certification. After students are admitted into the program, we require that they have American Heart Association Basic Life Support for Health Care Providers CPR certification.
How long is the nursing program?
The nursing program is a 5 semester (2 ½ year) program.
What degree do students earn?
Graduates receive a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree with a major in Nursing.
What licensure examination will I be qualified to take after graduation?
Graduates are eligible to apply to take the National Council Licensure Exam – Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN).