12-02-2025
Bemidji State, Northland Community and Technical College partner for nursing transfer pathway
Feb. 11—THIEF RIVER FALLS — Bemidji State University
has teamed up with Northland Community and Technical College for a new transfer program that will give Northland nursing students a clear path to continue their education after earning their Associate of Science degree.
According to a release, Operation LEAD — or Learn to lead, Expand your knowledge, Advance your career, Discover new jobs — continues a rich history of cooperation between the two schools and promises to deliver more highly skilled nurses for northern Minnesota.
Operation LEAD recognizes increasing professional demands in the nursing field as well as the critical need for advanced healthcare providers throughout the region.
The partnership not only guarantees Northland graduates a spot in BSU's nursing program, but it offers assistance throughout the transfer process, the ability to begin the bachelor's program prior to passing the NCLEX entrance exam and a customized graduation plan.
With flexible start dates, eight-week classes, fully online delivery and the ability to attend full-time or part-time, the program is also designed for working students who balance demands both in and out of the classroom.
"This is a tremendous opportunity for our nursing students," Northland's Associate Degree Nursing Program Director Kari Koenig said in the release. "All of our credits will seamlessly transfer to Bemidji, making the process simple ... encouraging more students to continue building their nursing skills while staying close to home."
To further entice students to make the jump into BSU's program, Operation LEAD also offers scholarship opportunities to Northland transfer students. Ten $1,000 transfer scholarships as well as ten $2,500 Minnesota Workforce Development Scholarships will be available exclusively for Operation LEAD students enrolling in BSU's RN to BS nursing program.
"We are pleased to have Northland as a partner in Operation LEAD," Northland's Dean of Health, Public Services and Technical Programs Stephanie LeDuc said. "Our two institutions share the goal of providing students who are dedicated to a career in nursing with opportunities to unlock their potential and serve their communities. Operation LEAD provides that opportunity with a clear and supported path for nursing students to continue their education while also meeting a critical need for baccalaureate degree-educated nurses throughout Minnesota."
