The exact timeline depends on if you choose a two-year associate degree or four-year bachelor's degree. Having prior nursing experience can speed up completion time, whereas programs with more clinical hour requirements and less online options can take longer to complete.
For the specifics on an ADN vs. An ADN degree provides a quick path to becoming a registered nurse. However, the degree can limit career prospects since some healthcare employers require or prefer a BSN degree. RNs also need a BSN if they want to eventually work in an advanced practice nurse role, such as a clinical nurse specialist, certified registered nurse anesthetist, or nurse practitioner.
The route to becoming a registered nurse takes longer when you earn a BSN. However, the program provides a broader education in leadership, critical thinking, coordinating patient care with doctors and other healthcare professionals, and specialized knowledge of medical conditions.
Individuals who hold a bachelor's degree in another field can earn an accelerated bachelor of science in nursing degree ABSN and graduate in months. This route appeals to those who want to switch careers quickly and become a registered nurse. However, the program's rapid pace can be challenging, and the admissions process can be rigorous. Only licensed RNs can practice in healthcare settings. RNs who meet the educational, clinical, and exam qualifications can get licensed to work.
Certifications—while not required for employment—acknowledge a registered nurse's expertise in specialized areas, such as pediatric acute critical care or cardiac medicine. It can also boost a registered nurse's career in terms of pay and responsibility.
Earning licensure serves as the last step to becoming a registered nurse. Prospective nurses can get licensed by their state board of nursing after they complete their degree, clinical hours, and pass the NCLEX-RN.
Each state board sets different standards and may require additional training courses to qualify for a license. Some states allow unlicensed RNs to practice if they get a permit. RNs must typically renew their license every years.
There are a few different entrance exams schools use, but two popular ones are:. The Test of Essential Academic Skills is one of the most common tests required of aspiring nurses. The test evaluates and measures proficiency in math, English, science, and reading. Accreditation is a sure-fire way to know if a program meets nationally recognized nursing education standards.
Secondly, earning a degree at one accredited school allows a student to pursue further education at other accredited schools. In addition to looking for accreditation, follow these tips for picking the right nursing school and program.
While not all states mandate this, your employer may require it in order to maintain a specialty certification. Your pay as an RN depends on a number of things: where you live, what specialty you choose, and your experience, to name a new. The doctoral degree is designed to prepare the student for a career in senior management, nursing research or university-level nursing education. Doctoral degrees include a Ph. Doctoral programs can last as long as five years. Work Careers Nursing Jobs.
By Chron Contributor Updated October 12, Steps to Getting an Associate Degree of Nursing. References U. No matter which degree option you choose, rest assured that your professional opportunities are numerous. One of the advantages of a nursing education is that it allows you to continue learning and advancing.
Although you may begin at a basic level, there are many possibilities for adapting your education to meet a new career goal. Below are just a few of the job opportunities available for nursing students upon successful completion of their academic programs. The 2-year Associate of Science in Nursing ASN program even allows you to begin your new nursing job two years earlier than traditional four-year programs.
Apply now to begin an exciting lifetime journey as a nursing professional! See all programs Apply now. Boston Healthcare Needs Us - check out our visibility campaign! Subscribe to our Blog. Blog Topics. How Long is Nursing School? Levels of Nursing Degrees Trained nurses can pursue various levels of education depending on their short and long-term career goals. Practical Nursing Diploma A diploma in practical nursing PN is often considered the quickest way to get started in a nursing career.
Graduate Level Degrees Since most nursing professionals can easily secure good jobs with other degrees, not everyone will go on to earn a graduate level nursing degree. How to Research Nursing School Programs With such a high demand for nursing professionals, potential students are likely to have several local options based on the type of degree they wish to pursue.
Critical Care Nurse.
0コメント