Nursing is a challenging, innovative, and caring profession where you can make a real difference in the lives of your patients. Our Associate of Science in Nursing program will teach you the skills you'll need to earn your degree, take your board exams, and begin a career as a registered nurse. Start your career in nursing now at Minnesota State College Southeast.
Major Details
Minnesota State College Southeast's nursing program is designed to prepare graduates to earn an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree, take the NCLEX-RN® exam, and become registered nurses. The Associate of Science in Nursing program at Minnesota State College Southeast is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and approved by the Minnesota Board of Nursing.
ASN Program Outcomes
Pass rates, completion rates, and job placement rates.
| Year |
2023 |
2024 |
| First time NCLEX-PN pass rate. |
90% |
88% |
| Program Completion Rate |
86% |
67% |
| Job Placement |
100% |
Pending |
The college utilizes curriculum resources from a nationally renowned provider to offer a modern learning experience, complete with high fidelity virtual skills labs and simulations, online student learning materials, faculty support, and national benchmarking of student progress.
Associate of Science in Nursing
In the Associate of Science in Nursing program plan, students will take two semesters of required prerequisite college-level general education courses prior to beginning nursing courses as well as additional general education courses during the nursing program.
To prepare for acceptance to the Associate of Science in Nursing program, students should enroll in the Pre-Nursing major and begin with required prerequisites. Upon completion of the prerequisites, students are eligible to apply for entry into the ASN program. Download the Program Plan (PDF) for more information.
Traditional vs. Mobility Track: Two pathways are available for ASN students. The traditional track is for students who are beginning their nursing education. The mobility track is for current LPNs seeking to transition to RN status.
Note: The Associate of Science in Nursing is offered on our campuses in Winona and Red Wing. During clinical rotations, nursing students may be required to travel up to a 100-mile radius from their home campus. Students are assigned to either the Red Wing or Winona campus at the time of acceptance into the program. Campus assignment determines the facilities where students complete clinical experiences.
Admission Deadlines
Applications for admission to the Associate of Science in Nursing program are accepted twice each year.
Fall start application window: April 15th - June 1st
Spring start application window: September 1st - October 15th
- Apply for admission to Minnesota State College Southeast.
- Apply for admission to the Associate of Science in Nursing Program.
- Note: The ATI TEAS Exam must be completed in-person/on-campus at an institution or testing center prior to the application deadline. For specific directions on how to register, see the ATI Testing website. (Do not register for the online TEAS exam.)
Important Student Documents
Continued Education Pathways
RN-BS in Nursing Completion Program:Southeast has entered into dual admission partnership with Winona State University. This allows students pursuing an ASN at Southeast to bridge to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at WSU.
Minnesota State has a Statewide Nursing Program Transfer Agreement for both Practical Nursing Diploma to Associate of Science in Nursing and Associate of Science in Nursing to Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing which supports a smooth transfer pathway. Learn More (PDF)
Download the Program Plan
Courses
1) Must complete a minimum of 6 different MnTC goals in Liberal Arts and Sciences.
2) 1100 or higher Liberal Arts and Sciences courses required unless specified.
BIOL2515
Anatomy & Physiology I
Human Anatomy and Physiology I introduces the structure and function of the human body with an emphasis on normal health. This course includes a review of cellular biology, cellular transport, cell reproduction and basic biochemistry. Topics covered include tissues, the integumentary system, skeletal system, articulations, muscular system, and nervous system. (MnTC Goals 2 & 3) (Prerequisite: BIOL1200 or equivalent) (4 credits: 3 lecture/1 lab)
4 cr
BIOL2516
Anatomy & Physiology II
Human Anatomy and Physiology II continues the study of the human body from Human Anatomy and Physiology I. This course includes principles of chemistry, biochemistry, and molecular biology as they relate to the study of normal body function. Topics covered include the endocrine system, cardiovascular system, immune system, respiratory system, urinary system, digestive system, and reproductive systems. (MnTC Goals 2 & 3) (Prerequisite: Successful completion of BIOL2515 Anatomy & Physiology I) (4 credits: 3 lecture/1 lab)
4 cr
BIOL2531
Microbiology
Microbiology explores the general characteristics, classification, and pathology of microscopic organisms. Fundamental aspects of microbial control, growth, reproduction, and metabolism, are explored with relation to the role they play in human health, disease, and immunity. Basic laboratory procedures, such as staining techniques, nutrient preparation, microbial isolation, and microorganism identification are introduced in the laboratory component of this course. (Fulfills MnTC goal 3) (Prerequisite: CHEM2518 or BIOL1200 or BIOL1201 or BIOL2515 or BIOL1001 or equivalent) (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)
3 cr
CHEM2518
General, Organic & Biochemistry I
This course is intended as a broad introduction to the basic principles of general, organic and biochemistry. Atomic structure, radioactivity, ionic and covalent compounds, reactions, oxidation-reduction, solutions, acids and base are covered through descriptive, theoretical and laboratory topics. These principles are related to organic and biological chemistry throughout the course as it is foundation course for students enrolled in the health-related programs. However, this course is open to all students enrolled in any program. (MnTC Goals 2 & 3) (Prerequisite: CHEM1110 or 1010 or Recent High School Chemistry with Instructor Approval or Proficiency in the Science Portion of the TEAS exam) (4 credits: 3 lecture/1 lab)
4 cr
ENGL1215
College Writing I
This course involves expository writing based on experience, direct observation, research and reading with emphasis on critical thinking skills, rhetorical strategies, and style. (Meets MnTC Goal 1) (Prerequisites: Writing College Level Placement or successful completion of ENGL0528) (3 Credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)
3 cr
PSYC1115
Lifespan Psychology
Students will explore theories of human development to understand the connections and relationships of stages of growth from conception to late adulthood. Genetics; prenatal development and birth; physical, cognitive and psychosocial development from birth through late adulthood; and dying, death, and bereavement will be examined. (Fulfills MnTC Goals 5 and 7) (Prerequisite: none) (3 credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)
3 cr
GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
BIOL2540
Pathophysiology
This course expands upon knowledge gained in Anatomy and Physiology I and II to explore the changes that result from disease processes in the body. The nature, cause, diagnosis, and treatment of common diseases will be emphasized. Topics will include the immune response, cancer, fluid imbalances, diseases of the individual body systems, and systemic pathophysiology. MnTC Goals 2 & 3 (Prerequisite: BIOL 2516) (3 Credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)
Download the Course Outline
3 cr
HUMA1125
Moral Problems
An introduction to ethical principles as applied to the moral issues and challenges individuals encounter in everyday life. Emphasis will be given to the analysis and development of ethical views and decision making. A broad variety of topics will be explored, including personal moral character, medical, religious, racial, and cultural issues. (Fulfills MnTC Goals 6 & 9) (Prerequisite: None) (3 credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)
Download the Course Outline
3 cr
TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS (Traditional Track - for current Certified Nursing Assistants)
NURS1401
Nursing Fundamentals and Community Health
This course will provide the student an introduction to nursing and roles of the nurse in various community health care settings. Emphasis is placed on the knowledge and skills needed to provide safe, quality, patient-centered care. The student is provided the opportunity to practice assessment skills and demonstrate nursing skills for populations across the lifespan in selected community settings. Adherence to ethical and legal standards in promoting a patient's physical, cognitive, and mental health is emphasized. Concepts of patient education are introduced and an introduction to the nursing process provides a decision-making framework to assist students in developing effective clinical judgment skills. (Corequisites: NURS1410, NURS1420, NURS1460) 5 credits: 3 lecture/2 lab
Download the Course Outline
5 cr
NURS1410
Nursing Fundamentals Skills Lab
This course will provide the student the theoretical foundation for fundamental nursing skills related to patient care and medication administration. Students have the opportunity to practice select skills within the RN scope of practice in the lab setting. Patient-centered care, safety, and evidence-based practice are the framework for the application of nursing and medication administration skills. Documentation related to select skills is emphasized. (Prerequisites: Admission to Nursing Program) (Corequisites: NURS1401, NURS1420, NURS1460, ENGL1215) (2 credits: 0 lecture/2 lab)
Download the Course Outline
2 cr
NURS1420
Pharmacology in Nursing
This course will provide the student the opportunity to examine pharmacotherapeutic agents, including homeopathic and complementary therapies, used in the treatment of illness and the promotion, maintenance, and restoration of wellness in diverse individuals. It focuses on drug classification, concepts, and principles of pharmacology, with special consideration for the nursing role in developing a comprehensive approach to the clinical application of drug therapy through the use of the nursing process. Nursing implications relative to the utilization of drug therapy are examined. Safety, ethical, legal implications of drug administration are discussed. (Prerequisites: BIOL1200 or BIOL 2515) (Corequisites: NURS1401, NURS1410, NURS1460, ENGL1215) (3 credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)
Download the Course Outline
3 cr
NURS1441
Medical/Surgical Nursing I
This course will provide the student an introduction to nursing and roles of the nurse in various community health care settings. Emphasis is placed on the knowledge and skills needed to provide safe, quality, patient-centered care. The student is provided the opportunity to practice assessment skills and demonstrate nursing skills for populations across the lifespan in selected community settings. Adherence to ethical and legal standards in promoting a patient's physical, cognitive, and mental health is emphasized. Concepts of patient education are introduced and an introduction to the nursing process provides a decision-making framework to assist students in developing effective clinical judgment skills.(Prerequisites: ENGL1215, BIOL2540, NURS1401, NURS1410, NURS1420, NURS1460, NURS1431 if LPN Student) (Corequisites: NURS1450, NURS2418) (6 credits: 3 lecture/3 lab)
Download the Course Outline
6 cr
NURS1450
Med/Surg Skills Lab
This course will provide the student the theoretical foundation for advanced nursing skills related to patient care and medication administration. Students have the opportunity to practice select skills within the RN scope of practice in the lab setting. Patient-centered care, safety, and evidence-based practice are the framework for the application of nursing and medication administration skills. Documentation related to select skills is emphasized. (Prerequisites: NURS1401, NURS1410, and NURS1420, NURS 1460, NURS1431 for LPNs., ENGL1215 and BIOL2540) (Corequisites: NURS1441 and NURS2418) (1 credits: 0 lecture/1 lab)
Download the Course Outline
1 cr
NURS1460
Health Assessment
This course will provide the student the framework for preparing students to perform a holistic comprehensive health assessment on clients across the lifespan. Emphasis is placed on taking a thorough nursing history, performing physiological, developmental, psychological, sociological, cultural, and spiritual assessments, as well as identifying stressors and health risks. Students are provided the opportunity to document subjective findings from the health history as well as objective assessment findings. Laboratory experiences provide an opportunity to practice assessment skills. (Prerequisites: BIOL1200 OR BIOL2515, Admission to ASN Program) (Corequisites: NURS1401, NURS1410, NURS1420 - Traditional Track, NURS1431 if LPN, ENGL1215) (1 credit: 0 lecture/1 lab)
Download the Course Outline
1 cr
NURS2400
Medical/Surgical Nursing II
This course will provide the student to continue to build on Medical/Surgical Nursing I with a focus on patients experiencing more complex medical/surgical health alterations that require medical and/or surgical intervention. Concepts of evidence-based practice, informatics, priority-setting, clinical judgment, quality improvement, and teamwork and collaboration will be emphasized throughout the course. Clinical experiences provide the student an opportunity to apply theoretical concepts and implement safe, patient-centered care to patients in a variety of settings. Emphasis is also placed on the management of patients facing emotional and psychological stressors, as well as the promotion and maintenance of the mental health of individuals and families. (Prerequisites: NURS1401, NURS1410, NURS1420, NURS1460, NURS1441, NURS1450, NURS2418, AND NURS1431 if LPN) (Corequisites: NURS2480 and NURS2548) (5 credits: 2.5 lecture/2.5 lab)
Download the Course Outline
5 cr
NURS2418
Family Nursing
This course will provide the student an integrative, family-centered approach to the care of mothers, newborns, and children. Emphasis is placed on normal and abnormal conditions of pregnancy, normal growth and development, family structure and function, family dynamics, health and illness states of children, and the promotion of safe, healthy behaviors in the growing family. Clinical experiences provide the student an opportunity to apply theoretical concepts and implement collaborative, safe patient care to mothers, newborns, and children in select settings. Emphasis is also placed on the management of growing families facing emotional and psychological stressors, as well as the promotion and maintenance of the mental health of individuals and families. (EPSLO 1, 2, 6, 7, 8) (Prerequisites: NURS1401, NURS1410, NURS1420, NURS1460, and NURS1431 - if LPN student: ENGL1215, BIOL2540) (Corequisites: NURS1441, NURS1450) (4 credits: 2.5 lecture/1.5 lab)
Download the Course Outline
4 cr
NURS2458
Nursing Skills & Simulation
This course will assist the student to continue learning and mastering skills related to the provision of care for patients with complex conditions requiring medical and/or surgical intervention. Concepts of evidence-based practice, informatics, priority-setting, clinical judgment, quality improvement, and inter-professional communication will be emphasized and assessed during the activities taking place in the skills lab and during simulation experiences. (Prerequisites: BIOL2540, NURS1401, NURS1410, NURS1420, NURS1441, NURS1450, NURS1460, and NURS2412) (If LPN: NURS1431 - not NURS1401, NURS1410 and NURS1420) (Corequisites: NURS2408, NURS2480) (1 credit: 0 lecture/1 lab)
Download the Course Outline
1 cr
NURS2480
Complex Care and Leadership Concepts
This course will provide the student transition of the student to the role of the professional registered nurse is a focus of this course. The course also builds on Medical/Surgical II with a focus on patients experiencing complex, multisystem alterations in health that require integration of medical/surgical concepts of nursing care. Emphasis is placed on implementing time management and organizational skills, while managing the care of patients with multiple needs and collaborating with the inter-professional team. Complex clinical skills, as well as priority setting, clinical judgment, and legal and ethical practice, are integrated throughout the course. Emphasis is also placed on the management of patients facing emotional and psychological stressors, as well as the promotion and maintenance of the mental health of individuals and families. Contemporary issues and management concepts are a focus, as well as the development of the skills of delegation, conflict management, and leadership. Healthcare policy, standards of practice, legal issues, and ethical issues are analyzed, with a focus on personal accountability and responsibility in relation to state regulations. (Prerequisites: BIOL1226, BIOL2540, ENGL1215, NURS1401, NURS1410, NURS1420, NURS1441, NURS1450, NURS1460, and NURS2418) (if LPN: NURS1431 - not NURS1401, NURS1420, NURS1410) (Corequisites: NURS2400 and NURS2458 (6 credits: 3 lecture/3 lab)
Download the Course Outline
6 cr
TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS (Mobility Track - for current Licensed Practical Nurses)
Completion of NURS 1431
Upon completion of NURS 1431, mobility track students are awarded five credits of advanced standing in the ASN program.
5 cr
NURS1431
Transition to the Professional Nurse Role
This course will provide the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) student with concepts regarding transition to the professional Registered Nurse (RN) role. Theories and practices related to quality, safety, and evidence-based patient-centered care will be emphasized. The LPN will develop professional identity as an RN by expanding nursing knowledge and skills while promoting health and wellness across the lifespan. Concepts of patient education are introduced and an introduction to the nursing process provides a decision-making framework to assist students in developing effective clinical judgment skills. Lab experiences will include nursing skills, medication administration, and documentation. (Corequisites: NURS1410, NURS1420, NURS1460) (5 credits: 3 lecture/2 lab)
Download the Course Outline
5 cr
NURS1441
Medical/Surgical Nursing I
This course will provide the student an introduction to nursing and roles of the nurse in various community health care settings. Emphasis is placed on the knowledge and skills needed to provide safe, quality, patient-centered care. The student is provided the opportunity to practice assessment skills and demonstrate nursing skills for populations across the lifespan in selected community settings. Adherence to ethical and legal standards in promoting a patient's physical, cognitive, and mental health is emphasized. Concepts of patient education are introduced and an introduction to the nursing process provides a decision-making framework to assist students in developing effective clinical judgment skills.(Prerequisites: ENGL1215, BIOL2540, NURS1401, NURS1410, NURS1420, NURS1460, NURS1431 if LPN Student) (Corequisites: NURS1450, NURS2418) (6 credits: 3 lecture/3 lab)
Download the Course Outline
6 cr
NURS1450
Med/Surg Skills Lab
This course will provide the student the theoretical foundation for advanced nursing skills related to patient care and medication administration. Students have the opportunity to practice select skills within the RN scope of practice in the lab setting. Patient-centered care, safety, and evidence-based practice are the framework for the application of nursing and medication administration skills. Documentation related to select skills is emphasized. (Prerequisites: NURS1401, NURS1410, and NURS1420, NURS 1460, NURS1431 for LPNs., ENGL1215 and BIOL2540) (Corequisites: NURS1441 and NURS2418) (1 credits: 0 lecture/1 lab)
Download the Course Outline
1 cr
NURS1460
Health Assessment
This course will provide the student the framework for preparing students to perform a holistic comprehensive health assessment on clients across the lifespan. Emphasis is placed on taking a thorough nursing history, performing physiological, developmental, psychological, sociological, cultural, and spiritual assessments, as well as identifying stressors and health risks. Students are provided the opportunity to document subjective findings from the health history as well as objective assessment findings. Laboratory experiences provide an opportunity to practice assessment skills. (Prerequisites: BIOL1200 OR BIOL2515, Admission to ASN Program) (Corequisites: NURS1401, NURS1410, NURS1420 - Traditional Track, NURS1431 if LPN, ENGL1215) (1 credit: 0 lecture/1 lab)
Download the Course Outline
1 cr
NURS2400
Medical/Surgical Nursing II
This course will provide the student to continue to build on Medical/Surgical Nursing I with a focus on patients experiencing more complex medical/surgical health alterations that require medical and/or surgical intervention. Concepts of evidence-based practice, informatics, priority-setting, clinical judgment, quality improvement, and teamwork and collaboration will be emphasized throughout the course. Clinical experiences provide the student an opportunity to apply theoretical concepts and implement safe, patient-centered care to patients in a variety of settings. Emphasis is also placed on the management of patients facing emotional and psychological stressors, as well as the promotion and maintenance of the mental health of individuals and families. (Prerequisites: NURS1401, NURS1410, NURS1420, NURS1460, NURS1441, NURS1450, NURS2418, AND NURS1431 if LPN) (Corequisites: NURS2480 and NURS2548) (5 credits: 2.5 lecture/2.5 lab)
Download the Course Outline
5 cr
NURS2418
Family Nursing
This course will provide the student an integrative, family-centered approach to the care of mothers, newborns, and children. Emphasis is placed on normal and abnormal conditions of pregnancy, normal growth and development, family structure and function, family dynamics, health and illness states of children, and the promotion of safe, healthy behaviors in the growing family. Clinical experiences provide the student an opportunity to apply theoretical concepts and implement collaborative, safe patient care to mothers, newborns, and children in select settings. Emphasis is also placed on the management of growing families facing emotional and psychological stressors, as well as the promotion and maintenance of the mental health of individuals and families. (EPSLO 1, 2, 6, 7, 8) (Prerequisites: NURS1401, NURS1410, NURS1420, NURS1460, and NURS1431 - if LPN student: ENGL1215, BIOL2540) (Corequisites: NURS1441, NURS1450) (4 credits: 2.5 lecture/1.5 lab)
Download the Course Outline
4 cr
NURS2458
Nursing Skills & Simulation
This course will assist the student to continue learning and mastering skills related to the provision of care for patients with complex conditions requiring medical and/or surgical intervention. Concepts of evidence-based practice, informatics, priority-setting, clinical judgment, quality improvement, and inter-professional communication will be emphasized and assessed during the activities taking place in the skills lab and during simulation experiences. (Prerequisites: BIOL2540, NURS1401, NURS1410, NURS1420, NURS1441, NURS1450, NURS1460, and NURS2412) (If LPN: NURS1431 - not NURS1401, NURS1410 and NURS1420) (Corequisites: NURS2408, NURS2480) (1 credit: 0 lecture/1 lab)
Download the Course Outline
1 cr
NURS2480
Complex Care and Leadership Concepts
This course will provide the student transition of the student to the role of the professional registered nurse is a focus of this course. The course also builds on Medical/Surgical II with a focus on patients experiencing complex, multisystem alterations in health that require integration of medical/surgical concepts of nursing care. Emphasis is placed on implementing time management and organizational skills, while managing the care of patients with multiple needs and collaborating with the inter-professional team. Complex clinical skills, as well as priority setting, clinical judgment, and legal and ethical practice, are integrated throughout the course. Emphasis is also placed on the management of patients facing emotional and psychological stressors, as well as the promotion and maintenance of the mental health of individuals and families. Contemporary issues and management concepts are a focus, as well as the development of the skills of delegation, conflict management, and leadership. Healthcare policy, standards of practice, legal issues, and ethical issues are analyzed, with a focus on personal accountability and responsibility in relation to state regulations. (Prerequisites: BIOL1226, BIOL2540, ENGL1215, NURS1401, NURS1410, NURS1420, NURS1441, NURS1450, NURS1460, and NURS2418) (if LPN: NURS1431 - not NURS1401, NURS1420, NURS1410) (Corequisites: NURS2400 and NURS2458 (6 credits: 3 lecture/3 lab)
Download the Course Outline
6 cr
Total Credits Required for this Major: 64 Credits
Estimated Costs for this Major
| Approximate Tuition/Fees: | $14,435 |
|---|
| Minimum Tool Cost: | $2,450 |
|---|
| Books/Supplies: | $1,150 |
|---|
| Estimated Total: | $18,035 |
|---|
Career Opportunities
- Hospitals
- Clinics
- Home Health Care
- Hospice Care
- Long Term Care
Career Information
Use the MN DEED Career and Education Explorer Data Tool to learn about wages, job growth, and much more in this career field.
Outcomes
ASN End-of-Program Student Learning Program Outcomes:
- Patient-centered care
Evaluate nursing care provided to patients, families, groups, populations, and communities from diverse backgrounds in a variety of settings to ensure that it is compassionate, age and culturally appropriate, and based on a patient's preferences, values, and needs.
- Teamwork and collaboration
Collaborate with members of the interprofessional healthcare team, utilizing effective communication, to engage in shared decision-making when managing and coordinating patient care.
- Evidence-based practice
Integrate use of current evidence, clinical expertise, and patient/family preferences and values when making clinical decisions.
- Quality improvement
Utilize quality improvement strategies to effect change in the delivery of patient care.
- Safety
Implement strategies that minimize risk and provide a safe environment for patients, self, and others.
- Informatics
Integrate information technology into practice that supports the application of clinical judgment in the management of patient care.
- Professionalism
Integrate accountable and responsible behaviors that uphold established regulatory, legal, and ethical principles.
- Leadership
Utilize leadership, management, delegation, and priority-setting skills in the provision and management of safe, quality, patient-centered care.
Highlights
- Earning an Associate of Science in Nursing degree offers more opportunities for advancement and higher level of professional challenge.
- Meets the needs of students by offering small class sizes and close, personal attention from college faculty and staff.
- Program is focused on preparation for passing the NCLEX-RN® exam and successfully beginning a nursing career.
- An ASN degree is a solid pathway to a sustaining career.
Instructors
Dean of Nursing and Allied Health
- Carrie J. Travis Ed.D., MSN, RN, CNE
Instructors
- Debra Barry MSN, RN
- Amanda Ciszak, MSN, RN
- Cheryl Costello BSN, RN
- Rebecca Curns BSN, RN
- Ann Elliott, EdD, RN
- Danielle Kugel BSN, RN
- Kathy Mauser MSN, RN
- Stephanie Manor, BSN, RN
- Katie Maschka, MSN, RN
- Janine Mason, MSN, RN
- Jordan McNamer BSN, PHN, RN
- Michelle Miller, BSN, RN
- Jacqueline Meyer Rostad APRN, CNP, DNP
- Rose Raleigh MSN, RN
- Stephanie Schultz, BSN, RN
- Anne Olsen Wagner APRN, CNP
- Marty Wildt, MSN, RN