how long does it take to become a nurse in us

bachelor of science in nursing(BSN)

• In a traditional format, the BSN program takes approximately four years to complete.
• The BSN program is also available in an accelerated format and may be completed as a second degree for those who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field. Accelerated programs are typically completed within 12 to 24 months.
• The BSN program features both a clinical and theoretical curriculum that includes coursework in nursing, biology, anatomy and physiology.

associate degree in nursing (ADN)

If you’ve decided to pursue a career in nursing, you’ll want to look into the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program as your first step. ADN programs are typically two years long, and are offered by community colleges and technical schools. This is the most common type of nursing program, and it’s also the least expensive option available. The admissions requirements for an ADN program tend to be less rigorous than those of a traditional BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program.

diploma program in nursing

Diploma programs in nursing are administered by hospitals and typically take three years to complete, but they’re not available in all states. Additionally, fewer students are pursuing this educational route, since there is a national push for nurses to have at least an associate’s degree. The majority of diploma programs were phased out between the late 1990s and early 2000s.

direct-entry master’s degree program in nursing

If you have a bachelor’s degree in another field, you can pursue a direct-entry master’s degree program in nursing. These programs take two to two and a half years to complete and include clinical training. As a candidate, you will earn an advanced degree upon graduation and be eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN examination.

accelerated program for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders

• Eights months to complete: covering nursing theory and clinical practices
• Usually a prerequisite of a bachelor’s degree in another discipline, but it varies by program.
• Entry-level registered nurse (RN) opportunities, and may also lead to advanced degrees and specialties.
• $73,300 average annual salary nationwide

To become a Registered Nurse, potential candidates have several education paths to follow.

To become a Registered Nurse, potential candidates have several education paths to follow. The first is an associate degree in nursing (ADN), which typically takes two years to complete. While it’s possible to obtain this degree through a community college or technical school, the quickest way is through a hospital-based nursing program. These programs are offered at some hospitals and medical centers and often combine classroom learning with real-world clinical experience. Some programs even allow students to graduate at the same time as their RN licensing exam, making this path the fastest way for candidates to become RNs.

While ADN programs typically take less time than other degrees, they also offer less training in liberal arts and leadership skills. This can make them less appealing than bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) programs, which require four years of full-time study at a traditional university or college before graduating registered nurses into the workforce.