Northern State University Launches New Nursing  Degree Program

After over a decade of planning and preparation, Northern State University in Aberdeen will welcome its first class of nursing students this fall. NSU received approval in February from the Higher Learning Commission to launch its 120-credit hour Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. The HLC’s approval is a necessary component of  acquiring national accreditation.

“Having the endorsement of the Higher Learning Commission is an important step for our university and the nursing program, as it helps solidify Northern’s dedication to its mission, its students, and the region,” said Dr. Kiesow, dean of the college of arts and sciences.

NSU has been offering pre-nursing courses prior to the start of the full program and SDSU has been offering its accelerated nursing program to NSU students. SDSU will discontinue its accelerated nursing program in Aberdeen in December 2026 to coincide with the graduation of NSU’s first nursing students. 

Students of the new program will spend time in the classroom, plus they will get hands-on practice in simulation labs and build experience working directly with clinical partners. Officials at NSU say their goal is to prepare graduates with practical skills and the confidence to succeed in real-world healthcare settings.

Timeline to NSU’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program:
2011-2012 – Renovation begins on NSU campus for the nursing program to be offered by SDSU.
January 2013 – First cohort of NSU Accelerated Nursing students starts classes offered by SDSU at NSU.
2020-2022 – Online learning classes expand.
2022 – Approval process begins to create a BSN degree program at NSU.
October 2023 – Presentation College closes. Presentation was a small Roman Catholic college founded in 1951 in Aberdeen that offered several healthcare degrees and certifications, including a BSN. 
2023 – Dr. Lyncee Monson is appointed NSU Associate Dean of Nursing.
Fall 2024 – Program receives approvals of budget, faculty, and an accredited curriculum. 
Today – Applications for the BSN program open for Fall 2025.
August 2025 – First student cohort to start BSN program at NSU.
December 2026 – First NSU nursing students to graduate. Closure of SDSU’s Accelerated Nursing program at NSU’s campus.