Rasmussen University Expands Bachelor of Science Nursing Program to its St. Cloud Campus

(KNSI) — Rasmussen University has announced that it’s bringing its Bachelor of Science in Nursing program to its St. Cloud campus starting in January 2026.

The school says the program aims to help address the growing need for bachelor’s-prepared registered nurses throughout Minnesota, where both urban and rural healthcare systems are dealing with workforce shortages.

“Expanding our BSN program to St. Cloud reflects Rasmussen University’s commitment to serving Minnesota communities-both large and small,” said Mark Arnold, president of Rasmussen University. “This new offering helps us reach students who may not otherwise have access to a BSN program close to home, and it supports rural hospitals and clinics that are urgently seeking more registered nurses.”

Experts say rural areas are expected to face more severe nursing shortages than metro areas in the coming years, so the timing is significant. Rural communities nationwide, including those in Minnesota, continue struggling to recruit and retain healthcare professionals.

Arnold noted that many Rasmussen nursing graduates tend to stay and work in the communities where they studied, which helps address local workforce needs and improves healthcare access in rural areas. “This expansion to St. Cloud is designed to build on that tradition and prepare the next generation of nurses to serve the region,” he said.

A press release from the school says the standard BSN degree is for students seeking their first college degree and nursing career. The accelerated BSN second degree track serves students who already have a bachelor’s degree and want to transition into nursing, with completion possible in as few as 18 months. The RN to BSN option is designed for currently licensed registered nurses with associate degrees who want to advance their education.

The BSN program at the St. Cloud campus is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Enrollment is now open.

Learn more here.

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