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A Nursing Career Resource with Licensing Info & Job Openings
Becoming a nurse can change your life. There are not many career choices that leave people feeling as rewarded as nursing. Today’s job market looks bleak, but there will always be a demand for people in the healthcare field.
Once you’ve decided to embark on a career in nursing, you will have several choices to make. First of all, if you decide you want to become a Registered Nurse (RN) you will have to choose between a two year Associate’s Degree or a four year Bachelor’s Degree program . You will also have to carefully select your school, making sure it’s nursing programs are approved by North Dakota. Should you choose to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) you will spend about one year on your education. Keep in mind that your length of study could vary. Some schools offer ‘fast-track’ programs designed to get you through your learning more quickly than traditional programs. Also, if you are only taking classes part time, your education will take longer to complete.
After you graduate, your next step is to take the ‘boards’ also known as National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). This test is standard throughout the United States and is designed to score your competency as a potential nurse. There is a separate test for RNs and LPNs. The application can be located at your place of learning or on North Dakota’s State Board of Nursing’s website. Fill out the application and return it with the application and testing fees and a criminal background check fee. These fees are non-refundable. It is mandatory in North Dakota for you to pass this test to be eligible for licensure. If you do not pass, you can apply to retake it. You will also have to pay for the retest. North Dakota is a participating Nursing Licensure Compact state. This means that anyone with a valid license from another participating state can practice here without having to obtain a new license. However, if you should chose to move to this state or to practice here permanently, you will need to apply for licensure in North Dakota.
North Dakota’s nursing licenses are good for two years. Proof of continuing education in the form of twelve Contact Hours is required for renewal and there is a $90.00 license renewal fee.
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