Cost & earnings at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota What students borrow here, and what they go on to earn
The Bachelor of Science in Registered Nursing at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota is a pre-licensure programme that prepares graduates for professional nursing practice and eligibility to sit the NCLEX‑RN. It suits students seeking a rigorous clinical education grounded in liberal arts and whole‑person care, with pathways to focus on nursing administration, nursing research and advanced clinical practice.
The BSN curriculum combines foundational sciences, liberal‑arts courses and progressive nursing theory and practice to develop clinical judgement, communication and leadership. Early coursework typically covers human anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology and pathophysiology alongside health assessment and fundamentals of nursing practice.
Core nursing modules move from basic clinical skills to complex acute and community care. Typical subjects include adult health nursing, maternal and child health, paediatric nursing, mental‑health nursing, community and public‑health nursing, and care of older adults. Students also study nursing research, evidence‑based practice, nursing informatics and ethics.
The programme includes simulation‑based labs and multiple supervised clinical placements across hospitals, long‑term care and community settings. Advanced or elective threads allow concentration in:
The programme typically culminates in a capstone clinical practicum or senior seminar integrating clinical leadership, research translation and professional role development, preparing graduates for licensure and practice.
Applicants must hold a high school diploma or equivalent and complete prerequisite coursework in subjects such as biology (including human anatomy and physiology), chemistry, mathematics and English composition. Successful applicants typically demonstrate academic readiness through a competitive secondary school record and completion of the required prerequisites.
Additional admission expectations commonly include letters of recommendation, a personal statement reflecting interest in nursing and healthcare experience (paid or volunteer) where available. Some applicants may be interviewed as part of the selection process. International applicants should meet English language proficiency requirements and provide credential evaluation for international academic records.
Graduates are prepared to sit the NCLEX‑RN and begin practice as registered nurses in a range of settings including acute care hospitals, community health agencies, long‑term care, home health and outpatient clinics. With the administration focus, graduates can move into charge nurse and nurse manager roles; with research training, into clinical research coordination, quality improvement and roles that bridge practice and evidence translation.
A BSN also provides the academic foundation for postgraduate study (MSN, DNP, PhD) and specialisation in areas such as nurse practitioner roles, clinical nurse specialist, nurse educator, public‑health nursing and healthcare leadership.
Saint Mary’s combines liberal‑arts education with hands‑on clinical preparation, emphasising whole‑person care and ethical practice grounded in the university’s Catholic tradition. The nursing programme features small class sizes, experienced faculty with active clinical backgrounds and close faculty mentoring.
Students benefit from simulation laboratories, curated clinical partnerships across the region and a cohort model that fosters teamwork and peer support. The curriculum is designed to integrate research, leadership and clinical skills, preparing graduates to enter practice confidently or continue into advanced nursing education.
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