Operation LEAD a collaborative partnership between Bemidji State University and select two-year colleges. BSU and Minnesota State Colleges two-year colleges in northern and central Minnesota share a rich history of cooperation. They are committed to producing highly skilled nurses through a seamless, supported pathway between Nursing AS programs and BSU’s RN to BS program.

What BSU Offers Nursing AS Graduates

The program is designed for the working RN with eight-week classes, 100% online delivery, and the ability to attend full-time or part-time.

  • Guaranteed admission into BSU and the RN to BS program
  • A customized graduation plan using Student Planner
  • A choice of five start dates annually
  • The opportunity to earn a Public Health Nurse Registration Certificate and the ELNEC Certificate of Completion.

Cost & Aid

Operation Lead BSU NursingAll your college credits will be accepted by BSU.

After passing your NCLEX, you’ll receive 15 free upper division credits (a $5,000 value). You’ll also have the opportunity to apply for a $1,000 transfer scholarship and a $2,500 Minnesota Workforce Development Scholarships reserved for students in Operation LEAD.

Next Steps

  1. Apply to Operation LEAD
  2. Apply for admission to Bemidji State
  3. Build a plan with your nursing advisor
  4. Graduate from MN North College
  5. Start your online classes

Operation Lead

Enrollment Requirements for Operation LEAD Students

  1. Students must be graduating from a two-year college affiliated with Operation LEAD
  2. Interested Students are strongly encouraged to apply to BSU and Operation LEAD as early as possible for a more effective joint advising experience.
  3. Students must send BSU all college transcripts for any non-Minnesota State college they have attended.
  4. Students must graduate from their Nursing AS before taking RN to BS classes from BSU.
  5. Students must have achieved a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 in their previous RN program to be admitted to Operation LEAD. They must also have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.
  6. Students must pass a background check within the first two weeks of the semester at BSU to continue the program.
  7. Students must pass the NCLEX and become a licensed RN prior to receiving 15 upper division credits.
  8. Students must pass the NCLEX prior to, or before the end of their first semester at BSU to continue in the program
  9. Students must register for Operation LEAD one year prior to their start-date to reserve a spot. Spots will be filled on a first-come first served basis if the program is at capacity.